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Akharas kickstarted the third grand 'Amrit Snan' at ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj in the early hours of Monday, amid tighter protocols.

Maha Kumbh 2025: Akharas take holy dip during third Amrit Snan

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presided over the Maha Kumbabhishegam of Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam in Jakarta, Indonesia, emphasising the deep cultural and historical connections between India and Indonesia, underlining the countries' shared heritage in faith and spirituality.
Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, also known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the largest such Hindu temple in the Indonesian capital. Speaking through video conference, PM Modi extended his wishes on the Maha Kumbh-Abhishekam of the Murugan Temple and thanked "My brother, Indonesian President Prabowo" for making this event "even more special for me through his presence." PM Modi said, "I am physically hundreds of kilometers away from Jakarta, my heart is as close to this event as the relationship between India and Indonesia".
The Government of Jakarta donated 4000 square meter of land in the heart of the city to build a Hindu temple. It will also serve for multiple activities like cultural events, Tamil classes, marriage hall at affordable cost to locals, yoga, and meditation centre.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-aap-launches-website-for-residents-to-calculate-savings-from-welfare-schemes-8684388" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Delhi Assembly election: AAP launches website for residents to calculate savings from welfare schemes</a>
The Indian Prime Minister Modi said that the "relationship between India and Indonesia is not just geo-political but is rooted in thousands of years of shared culture and history&rdquo;. He emphasised that the bond between the two nations is based on heritage, science, faith, shared beliefs, and spirituality and this connection includes Lord Murugan, Lord Ram, and Lord Buddha.&nbsp;
He highlighted that when someone from India visits the Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, they experience the same "spiritual feeling" as in Kashi and Kedarnath and that the stories of Kakawin and Serat Ramayana evoke the same emotions as Valmiki Ramayana, Kamba Ramayana, and Ramcharitmanas in India.&nbsp;
Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population anywhere in the world, also has among the largest population of Hindus in the world. Hinduism, which arrived in Indonesia centuries ago, is still followed in regions like Bali where Hindus are in the majority (87%). Many monuments like Parmanand Temple, Borobudur temples, Arjuna and Horses statues are still preserved and supported by the Indonesian government.&nbsp;
Hinduism was the dominant religion during the era of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires, influencing the architecture, arts, literature, and governance of the region. &nbsp;Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata are still celebrated, notably in Bali, but also influence cultural expressions in other parts of Indonesia.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/budget-is-by-the-people-for-the-people-says-fm-sitharaman-citing-abraham-lincoln-8684033" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Budget is by the people for the people,' says FM Sitharaman citing Abraham Lincoln</a>
During the address, PM Modi mentioned that Indonesian Ramleela is performed in Ayodhya, India. He said, "When we hear the words 'Om Swasti-Astu' in Bali, we are reminded of the Swasti Vaachan recited by Vedic scholars in Bharat. The Borobudur Stupa in Indonesia reflects the same teachings of Lord Buddha that we experience in &nbsp;Sarnath and Bodh Gaya in Bharat".&nbsp;
On the cultural connect, the Prime Minister mentioned that the Bali Jatra festival in Odisha celebrates the ancient maritime voyages that once connected India and Indonesia culturally and commercially. He added that even today when Indians travel by Garuda Indonesia Airlines, they see the shared cultural heritage.
He mentioned that during President Prabowo's recent visit to India, they cherished many aspects of shared heritage. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited India in January and was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade, becoming the 4th Indonesian leader to do so since 1950. During that visit, India announced that it would take part in initiatives to preserve the Prambanan Temple.&nbsp;
During his address, PM said,"Alongside Lord Murugan, several other Gods-Goddesses have also been enshrined in this temple. This diversity&mdash;this multiplicity&mdash;is the very foundation of our culture. In Indonesia, this philosophy is called Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. In &nbsp;Bharat, we call it Unity in Diversity. It is our ease with the diversity that allows people of different communities to live together in harmony, both in Indonesia and in Bharat. That is why today&rsquo;s sacred occasion is also inspiring us for unity in diversity". During the Maha Kumbabhishegam ceremony, the Indonesian Foreign minister, Religious Affairs Minister, Forest Minister and Indian ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty were present.&nbsp;
In the past, PM Modi presided over the inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE in 2024. The idea for the temple was conceived in 1997 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS, who envisioned a temple in Abu Dhabi. In August 2015, during PM Narendra Modi's visit to the UAE, the UAE government, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, allocated 27 acres of land for the temple's construction.

India News | Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, also known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple, is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the largest such Hindu temple in the Indonesian capital.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presided over the Maha Kumbabhishegam of Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam in Jakarta, Indonesia, emphasising the deep cultural and historical connections between India and Indonesia, underlining the countries' shared heritage in faith and spirituality. Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, also known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the largest such Hindu temple in the Indonesian capital. Speaking through video conference, PM Modi extended his wishes on the Maha Kumbh-Abhishekam of the Murugan Temple and thanked "My brother, Indonesian President Prabowo" for making this event "even more special for me through his presence." PM Modi said, "I am physically hundreds of kilometers away from Jakarta, my heart is as close to this event as the relationship between India and Indonesia". The Government of Jakarta donated 4000 square meter of land in the heart of the city to build a Hindu temple. It will also serve for multiple activities like cultural events, Tamil classes, marriage hall at affordable cost to locals, yoga, and meditation centre. Also Read: Delhi Assembly election: AAP launches website for residents to calculate savings from welfare schemes The Indian Prime Minister Modi said that the "relationship between India and Indonesia is not just geo-political but is rooted in thousands of years of shared culture and history”. He emphasised that the bond between the two nations is based on heritage, science, faith, shared beliefs, and spirituality and this connection includes Lord Murugan, Lord Ram, and Lord Buddha. He highlighted that when someone from India visits the Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, they experience the same "spiritual feeling" as in Kashi and Kedarnath and that the stories of Kakawin and Serat Ramayana evoke the same emotions as Valmiki Ramayana, Kamba Ramayana, and Ramcharitmanas in India. Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population anywhere in the world, also has among the largest population of Hindus in the world. Hinduism, which arrived in Indonesia centuries ago, is still followed in regions like Bali where Hindus are in the majority (87%). Many monuments like Parmanand Temple, Borobudur temples, Arjuna and Horses statues are still preserved and supported by the Indonesian government. Hinduism was the dominant religion during the era of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires, influencing the architecture, arts, literature, and governance of the region. Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata are still celebrated, notably in Bali, but also influence cultural expressions in other parts of Indonesia. Also Read: 'Budget is by the people for the people,' says FM Sitharaman citing Abraham Lincoln During the address, PM Modi mentioned that Indonesian Ramleela is performed in Ayodhya, India. He said, "When we hear the words 'Om Swasti-Astu' in Bali, we are reminded of the Swasti Vaachan recited by Vedic scholars in Bharat. The Borobudur Stupa in Indonesia reflects the same teachings of Lord Buddha that we experience in Sarnath and Bodh Gaya in Bharat". On the cultural connect, the Prime Minister mentioned that the Bali Jatra festival in Odisha celebrates the ancient maritime voyages that once connected India and Indonesia culturally and commercially. He added that even today when Indians travel by Garuda Indonesia Airlines, they see the shared cultural heritage. He mentioned that during President Prabowo's recent visit to India, they cherished many aspects of shared heritage. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited India in January and was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade, becoming the 4th Indonesian leader to do so since 1950. During that visit, India announced that it would take part in initiatives to preserve the Prambanan Temple. During his address, PM said,"Alongside Lord Murugan, several other Gods-Goddesses have also been enshrined in this temple. This diversity—this multiplicity—is the very foundation of our culture. In Indonesia, this philosophy is called Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. In Bharat, we call it Unity in Diversity. It is our ease with the diversity that allows people of different communities to live together in harmony, both in Indonesia and in Bharat. That is why today’s sacred occasion is also inspiring us for unity in diversity". During the Maha Kumbabhishegam ceremony, the Indonesian Foreign minister, Religious Affairs Minister, Forest Minister and Indian ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty were present. In the past, PM Modi presided over the inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE in 2024. The idea for the temple was conceived in 1997 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS, who envisioned a temple in Abu Dhabi. In August 2015, during PM Narendra Modi's visit to the UAE, the UAE government, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, allocated 27 acres of land for the temple's construction.

Indian PM Modi presides over "Maha Abhishekam" of Jakarta Murugan Temple

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched an online portal, aapkibachat.com, on Sunday, allowing Delhi residents to calculate their savings from the free welfare schemes provided by the AAP-led government.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-aap-manifesto-bjp-manifesto-congress-manifesto-arvind-kejriwal-narendra-modi-rahul-gandhi-8683870">Delhi Assembly election: AAP vs BJP vs Congress, who has promised what? A look at manifestos</a>
Announcing the launch at a press conference, AAP national spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said, "For the people of Delhi, we are introducing this new portal where they can check how much they are saving through our free welfare schemes, such as free electricity, free water, and more."
Kakkar claimed that the AAP-led Delhi government helps residents save a minimum of ₹25,000 per month through these initiatives.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brooms-bristles-are-scattering-pm-modi-takes-dig-at-kejriwals-aap-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-polls-8683574">'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls</a>
She further stated that if AAP is re-elected in the upcoming assembly elections, new promises from the party's manifesto -- including free healthcare for senior citizens under the Sanjeevani Yojana, free bus rides for students and a 50 per cent concession on metro fares -- would further increase monthly savings by ₹10,000.
"Overall, if our government is formed, Delhiites will save ₹35,000 per month," she asserted.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eight-outgoing-aap-mlas-join-bjp-four-days-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-election-8681845">Eight MLAs who quit AAP join BJP four days ahead of Delhi Assembly election</a>
The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with results to be announced on February 8. AAP is seeking a third consecutive term after securing 62 out of 70 seats in the 2020 elections.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lost-faith-in-him-7-mlas-quit-aap-just-five-days-before-delhi-elections-8678482">'Lost faith in Kejriwal': 7 MLAs quit AAP just five days before Delhi election</a>
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India News: The AAP-led Delhi government, according to Kakkar, has implemented initiatives that significantly reduce the cost of living, allowing residents to save at least ₹,monthly.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched an online portal, aapkibachat.com, on Sunday, allowing Delhi residents to calculate their savings from the free welfare schemes provided by the AAP-led government. Also read: Delhi Assembly election: AAP vs BJP vs Congress, who has promised what? A look at manifestos Announcing the launch at a press conference, AAP national spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said, "For the people of Delhi, we are introducing this new portal where they can check how much they are saving through our free welfare schemes, such as free electricity, free water, and more." Kakkar claimed that the AAP-led Delhi government helps residents save a minimum of ₹25,000 per month through these initiatives. Also read: 'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls She further stated that if AAP is re-elected in the upcoming assembly elections, new promises from the party's manifesto -- including free healthcare for senior citizens under the Sanjeevani Yojana, free bus rides for students and a 50 per cent concession on metro fares -- would further increase monthly savings by ₹10,000. "Overall, if our government is formed, Delhiites will save ₹35,000 per month," she asserted. Also read: Eight MLAs who quit AAP join BJP four days ahead of Delhi Assembly election The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with results to be announced on February 8. AAP is seeking a third consecutive term after securing 62 out of 70 seats in the 2020 elections. Also read: 'Lost faith in Kejriwal': 7 MLAs quit AAP just five days before Delhi election Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audiencePTI

Delhi Assembly election: AAP launches website for residents to calculate savings from welfare schemes

Echoing Abraham Lincoln's iconic phrase, India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday (Feb 2) said that the Union Budget is "by the people, for the people, of the people".&nbsp;
She highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly backed the idea of slashing taxes for the middle class but it took some time to convince the bureaucrats to get on board.
"We have heard the voice of the middle class who were voicing their concerns about their aspirations not being met despite being diligent taxpayers," Sitharaman told news agency PTI.
The Finance Minister, in her Budget speech on Saturday (Feb 1), announced an increase in the personal income tax threshold to Rs 12 lakh, a substantial jump from the previous Rs 7 lakh.&nbsp;
Additionally, Sitharaman introduced a rejig in tax brackets that will enable individuals earning above Rs 12 lakh to save up to Rs 1.1 lakh.
"I think the prime minister put it succinctly, he said it's the people's Budget, it is the Budget which the people wanted."
On being asked to describe the essence of the budget, Sitharaman eloquently quoted Abraham Lincoln stating, "As they say in democracy in Abraham Lincoln's words, it is Budget by the people, of the people for the people."
Sitharaman said the new rates would "substantially reduce the taxes of the middle class and leave more money in their hands, boosting household consumption, savings and investment".
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-vows-to-implement-reforms-across-six-vital-domains-8680302">Also read: Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman vows reforms across six vital domains, from taxes to regulations</a>
<h2>'Everyone gets its due grant,' Sitharaman on Bihar and Delhi</h2>
Sitharaman, responding to the Opposition's criticism over announcing a bonanza in the budget only for the state of Bihar, said that the other parties were picking this up only "for want of criticism".
&ldquo;For want of criticism, they (Opposition) are picking this up. These are lame and lazy quick way to look at budget. Everyone gets its due grant. I want them to go through the details and then come back," she said.
Sitharaman in her record eighth consecutive Budget on Saturday (Feb 1), pledged to implement reforms across six vital sectors: taxation, urban development, mining, financial sector, power and regulatory reforms.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India news: On being asked to describe the essence of the budget, Sitharaman eloquently quoted Abraham Lincoln stating, "As they say in democracy in Abraham Lincoln's words, it is Budget by the people, of the people for the people."

Echoing Abraham Lincoln's iconic phrase, India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday (Feb 2) said that the Union Budget is "by the people, for the people, of the people". She highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly backed the idea of slashing taxes for the middle class but it took some time to convince the bureaucrats to get on board. "We have heard the voice of the middle class who were voicing their concerns about their aspirations not being met despite being diligent taxpayers," Sitharaman told news agency PTI. The Finance Minister, in her Budget speech on Saturday (Feb 1), announced an increase in the personal income tax threshold to Rs 12 lakh, a substantial jump from the previous Rs 7 lakh. Additionally, Sitharaman introduced a rejig in tax brackets that will enable individuals earning above Rs 12 lakh to save up to Rs 1.1 lakh. "I think the prime minister put it succinctly, he said it's the people's Budget, it is the Budget which the people wanted." On being asked to describe the essence of the budget, Sitharaman eloquently quoted Abraham Lincoln stating, "As they say in democracy in Abraham Lincoln's words, it is Budget by the people, of the people for the people." Sitharaman said the new rates would "substantially reduce the taxes of the middle class and leave more money in their hands, boosting household consumption, savings and investment". Also read: Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman vows reforms across six vital domains, from taxes to regulations 'Everyone gets its due grant,' Sitharaman on Bihar and Delhi Sitharaman, responding to the Opposition's criticism over announcing a bonanza in the budget only for the state of Bihar, said that the other parties were picking this up only "for want of criticism". “For want of criticism, they (Opposition) are picking this up. These are lame and lazy quick way to look at budget. Everyone gets its due grant. I want them to go through the details and then come back," she said. Sitharaman in her record eighth consecutive Budget on Saturday (Feb 1), pledged to implement reforms across six vital sectors: taxation, urban development, mining, financial sector, power and regulatory reforms. (With inputs from agencies)

'Budget is by the people for the people,' says FM Sitharaman citing Abraham Lincoln

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Sunday (Feb 2) came down heavily at the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government over the brutal murder of a 22-year-old Dalit woman in Ayodhya saying that &ldquo;the heinous atrocities, injustice and murders against Dalits are increasing rampantly, especially in UP.&rdquo;
The woman was found dead on Saturday. Her unclothed body was found in a canal by her family who claimed that her eyes were violently removed and her body had broken bones. Authorities suspect she was gang-raped.
According to the family, the woman never returned from a religious event that she attended on the evening of January 30. After a frantic search, they filed a missing person report at Ayodhya police station on Friday. They allege that the police did not actively search for her.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-medical-force-on-high-alert-ahead-of-amrit-snan-on-basant-panchami-8683966">Maha Kumbh 2025: Medical force on high alert ahead of Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Rahul Gandhi slams BJP</h2>
In a post on X, the LoP said that if the administration had paid attention to the victim&rsquo;s family&rsquo;s pleas for help, her life might have been saved.
&ldquo;The inhuman and brutal murder of a Dalit daughter in Ayodhya is heartbreaking and very shameful. If the administration had paid heed to the cry for help of the girl's family that had been echoing for three days, perhaps her life could have been saved. Another daughter's life ended due to this heinous crime. After all, how many more families will have to cry and suffer like this?&rdquo; he wrote on X.
Rahul Gandhi also alleged that under the rule of the BJP, atrocities and injustice against Dalits in the state have been escalating unchecked. He said that the UP government should investigate the incident ensuring the harshest punishment for the culprits.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-aap-manifesto-bjp-manifesto-congress-manifesto-arvind-kejriwal-narendra-modi-rahul-gandhi-8683870">Delhi Assembly election: AAP vs BJP vs Congress, who has promised what? A look at manifestos</a>
&ldquo;Under the anti-Bahujan BJP rule, especially in Uttar Pradesh, the heinous atrocities, injustice and murders against Dalits are increasing rampantly. The Uttar Pradesh government should immediately investigate this crime, ensure that the culprits are given the harshest punishment and take strict action against the responsible policemen. And please do not harass the victim's family as usual. The daughters of the country and the entire Dalit community are looking towards you for justice,&rdquo; the Congress leader said.
<h2 dir="ltr">Faizabad SP MP Awadhesh Prasad breaks down</h2>
Faizabad SP MP Awadhesh Prasad also visited the family to offer support. Prasad broke down while speaking to reporters about the crime.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brooms-bristles-are-scattering-pm-modi-takes-dig-at-kejriwals-aap-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-polls-8683574">'Broom's bristles are scattering'; PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls</a>
"Let me to go Delhi, to Lok Sabha. I will keep the matter in front of (PM) Modi and if we don't get justice, then I will resign," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: Rahul Gandhi criticizes Yogi Adityanath's UP government for failing to protect a -year-old Dalit woman brutally murdered in Ayodhya, calling for immediate justice.

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Sunday (Feb 2) came down heavily at the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government over the brutal murder of a 22-year-old Dalit woman in Ayodhya saying that “the heinous atrocities, injustice and murders against Dalits are increasing rampantly, especially in UP.” The woman was found dead on Saturday. Her unclothed body was found in a canal by her family who claimed that her eyes were violently removed and her body had broken bones. Authorities suspect she was gang-raped. According to the family, the woman never returned from a religious event that she attended on the evening of January 30. After a frantic search, they filed a missing person report at Ayodhya police station on Friday. They allege that the police did not actively search for her. Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Medical force on high alert ahead of Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami Rahul Gandhi slams BJP In a post on X, the LoP said that if the administration had paid attention to the victim’s family’s pleas for help, her life might have been saved. “The inhuman and brutal murder of a Dalit daughter in Ayodhya is heartbreaking and very shameful. If the administration had paid heed to the cry for help of the girl's family that had been echoing for three days, perhaps her life could have been saved. Another daughter's life ended due to this heinous crime. After all, how many more families will have to cry and suffer like this?” he wrote on X. Rahul Gandhi also alleged that under the rule of the BJP, atrocities and injustice against Dalits in the state have been escalating unchecked. He said that the UP government should investigate the incident ensuring the harshest punishment for the culprits. Also read | Delhi Assembly election: AAP vs BJP vs Congress, who has promised what? A look at manifestos “Under the anti-Bahujan BJP rule, especially in Uttar Pradesh, the heinous atrocities, injustice and murders against Dalits are increasing rampantly. The Uttar Pradesh government should immediately investigate this crime, ensure that the culprits are given the harshest punishment and take strict action against the responsible policemen. And please do not harass the victim's family as usual. The daughters of the country and the entire Dalit community are looking towards you for justice,” the Congress leader said. Faizabad SP MP Awadhesh Prasad breaks down Faizabad SP MP Awadhesh Prasad also visited the family to offer support. Prasad broke down while speaking to reporters about the crime. Also read | 'Broom's bristles are scattering'; PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls "Let me to go Delhi, to Lok Sabha. I will keep the matter in front of (PM) Modi and if we don't get justice, then I will resign," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Heartbreaking, shameful': Rahul Gandhi criticises BJP over ‘brutal murder’ of Dalit woman in UP’s Ayodhya

Ahead of the Basant Panchami Amrit Snan at the ongoing Maha Kumbh, the entire Prayagraj division's medical infrastructure has been put on high alert, the Uttar Pradesh government said on Sunday.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed that all doctors across Mahakumbh Nagar and the entire division remain vigilant to ensure the safety and well-being of millions of devotees, it said.
Basant Panchami marks the third and the final Amrit Snan date at the Kumbh. Two more special snans are on February 12 (Maghi Purnima) and 26 (Mahashivratri).
The government has heightened preparations to all-time high particularly in the wake of the January 29 stampede at Sangam that left at least 30 pilgrims dead and 60 injured with the police blaming overcrowding for the incident.
"Over 1,200 medical personnel are fully prepared in Mahakumbh Nagar to provide immediate assistance. The entire medical force will remain stationed at the fairground and will only be relieved after February 6.
Additionally, a backup plan has been put in place to address any emergencies," the government said in a statement.
It further said a four-member special medical team has inspected all hospitals within the fairground, ensuring that medicine stocks and medical equipment at sector hospitals are well-maintained.
Similarly, Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital and Tej Bahadur Sapru Hospital have been placed on high alert.
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"At Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital, 500 staff members have been put on standby, most existing patients have been discharged, and 150 beds have been reserved for emergencies. Sixty resident doctors have been placed on 24-hour alert mode, 30 CT scan machines are ready, along with MRI and ultrasound facilities, ensuring all necessary tests can be conducted. A 200-unit blood bank has also been set up at SRN Hospital, and all facilities are linked to an alarm system for quick response," it added.
Dr. Gaurav Dubey, the nodal officer for medical services at the Maha Kummbh fair, said that the government's emergency response system, particularly ambulance services, is playing a crucial role.
"In case of need, patients will be transferred to Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital or Tej Bahadur Sapru Hospital (Bailey Hospital). Medical teams across Prayagraj, the division, and Mahakumbh Nagar are fully prepared," he said.
"The chief minister has instructed that no doctor or medical staff should leave their post until February 5. Over 1,200 doctors and paramedical staff have been deployed for the event," he added.
The government also said that to handle emergencies, additional medical teams have been prepared as backup, with doctors stationed within the fairground for at least 3-4 days. Additionally, sector hospitals within the fairground are undergoing regular inspections to ensure the availability of medicines and medical equipment, it said.
"A four-member medical team, including nodal medical officer Umakant Sanyal, Chief Medical Superintendent of the Central Hospital Dr. Manoj Kaushik, Assistant Nodal Medical Officer Dr. Ram Singh, and Mahakumbh fair's medical establishment officer Dr. Gaurav Dubey, is overseeing these inspections," according to the statement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-prayagraj-district-magistrate-announces-end-to-vehicle-entry-restrictions-8676449">Maha Kumbh 2025: Prayagraj District Magistrate announces end to vehicle entry restrictions</a>
It stressed that ensuring the safety and health of devotees is Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's "top priority".
Extensive medical arrangements and sufficient medical personnel are in place. The healthcare infrastructure includes a state-of-the-art 100-bed central hospital, two 25-bed sub-central hospitals, eight 20-bed sector hospitals, two 20-bed infectious disease hospitals, and ten first aid posts, it added.
According to Dr. Santosh Singh, PRO of Motilal Nehru Medical College, all necessary medical facilities will be provided to devotees. Over 500 medical staff members at Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital are on high alert, with 150 beds reserved.
"Most existing patients have been discharged, and 60 resident doctors are available around the clock. Facilities include 30 CT scan machines, MRI, ultrasound, and a 200-unit blood bank connected to an alarm system. Over 50 ambulances are on standby, with SDRF, NDRF, and police teams assisting in medical operations," he said.
The government said accommodation and food arrangements have been made for doctors and medical staff at Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital to ensure their immediate availability.
All staff members have been instructed to remain within the hospital premises, it added. The Maha Kumbh is drawing millions of pilgrims daily and has so far recorded over 33 crore visitors. The mega religious congregation of humans started on January 13 and will continue till February 26.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news | The government has heightened preparations to all-time high particularly in the wake of the January 29 stampede at Sangam that left at least 30 pilgrims dead and 60 injured with the police blaming overcrowding for the incident.

Ahead of the Basant Panchami Amrit Snan at the ongoing Maha Kumbh, the entire Prayagraj division's medical infrastructure has been put on high alert, the Uttar Pradesh government said on Sunday. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed that all doctors across Mahakumbh Nagar and the entire division remain vigilant to ensure the safety and well-being of millions of devotees, it said. Basant Panchami marks the third and the final Amrit Snan date at the Kumbh. Two more special snans are on February 12 (Maghi Purnima) and 26 (Mahashivratri). The government has heightened preparations to all-time high particularly in the wake of the January 29 stampede at Sangam that left at least 30 pilgrims dead and 60 injured with the police blaming overcrowding for the incident. "Over 1,200 medical personnel are fully prepared in Mahakumbh Nagar to provide immediate assistance. The entire medical force will remain stationed at the fairground and will only be relieved after February 6. Additionally, a backup plan has been put in place to address any emergencies," the government said in a statement. It further said a four-member special medical team has inspected all hospitals within the fairground, ensuring that medicine stocks and medical equipment at sector hospitals are well-maintained. Similarly, Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital and Tej Bahadur Sapru Hospital have been placed on high alert. Also read | Viral video | Chris Martin and Dakota Johnson took a holy dip at Maha Kumbh 2025 "At Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital, 500 staff members have been put on standby, most existing patients have been discharged, and 150 beds have been reserved for emergencies. Sixty resident doctors have been placed on 24-hour alert mode, 30 CT scan machines are ready, along with MRI and ultrasound facilities, ensuring all necessary tests can be conducted. A 200-unit blood bank has also been set up at SRN Hospital, and all facilities are linked to an alarm system for quick response," it added. Dr. Gaurav Dubey, the nodal officer for medical services at the Maha Kummbh fair, said that the government's emergency response system, particularly ambulance services, is playing a crucial role. "In case of need, patients will be transferred to Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital or Tej Bahadur Sapru Hospital (Bailey Hospital). Medical teams across Prayagraj, the division, and Mahakumbh Nagar are fully prepared," he said. "The chief minister has instructed that no doctor or medical staff should leave their post until February 5. Over 1,200 doctors and paramedical staff have been deployed for the event," he added. The government also said that to handle emergencies, additional medical teams have been prepared as backup, with doctors stationed within the fairground for at least 3-4 days. Additionally, sector hospitals within the fairground are undergoing regular inspections to ensure the availability of medicines and medical equipment, it said. "A four-member medical team, including nodal medical officer Umakant Sanyal, Chief Medical Superintendent of the Central Hospital Dr. Manoj Kaushik, Assistant Nodal Medical Officer Dr. Ram Singh, and Mahakumbh fair's medical establishment officer Dr. Gaurav Dubey, is overseeing these inspections," according to the statement. Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Prayagraj District Magistrate announces end to vehicle entry restrictions It stressed that ensuring the safety and health of devotees is Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's "top priority". Extensive medical arrangements and sufficient medical personnel are in place. The healthcare infrastructure includes a state-of-the-art 100-bed central hospital, two 25-bed sub-central hospitals, eight 20-bed sector hospitals, two 20-bed infectious disease hospitals, and ten first aid posts, it added. According to Dr. Santosh Singh, PRO of Motilal Nehru Medical College, all necessary medical facilities will be provided to devotees. Over 500 medical staff members at Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital are on high alert, with 150 beds reserved. "Most existing patients have been discharged, and 60 resident doctors are available around the clock. Facilities include 30 CT scan machines, MRI, ultrasound, and a 200-unit blood bank connected to an alarm system. Over 50 ambulances are on standby, with SDRF, NDRF, and police teams assisting in medical operations," he said. The government said accommodation and food arrangements have been made for doctors and medical staff at Swarup Rani Nehru Hospital to ensure their immediate availability. All staff members have been instructed to remain within the hospital premises, it added. The Maha Kumbh is drawing millions of pilgrims daily and has so far recorded over 33 crore visitors. The mega religious congregation of humans started on January 13 and will continue till February 26. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Maha Kumbh 2025: Medical force on high alert ahead of Amrit Snan on Basant Panchami

The Indian capital is all set to choose its next chief minister in the upcoming Delhi Assembly election, scheduled for Wednesday (Feb 5). The results will be announced on February 8. The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP), and Congress are the top contenders on the list. All the parties have unveiled their respective manifestos with major promises to the people of Delhi.
Let's take a look at who has claimed to offer what:&nbsp;
<h2>'Kejriwal ki guarantee'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-elections-2025-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-bjp-supporters-to-vote-for-aap-regardless-of-their-party-affiliation-8679837">Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign</a>
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), currently ruling Delhi, released its manifesto titled "Kejriwal ki guarantee" (Guarantee of Kejriwal) having 15 promises. The major ones are: job creation, cash for women, and free medical treatment for senior citizens.&nbsp;
The party, under former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, also promised to provide 24/7 clean drinking water to all households in the national capital. It has also promised to provide a monthly amount of ₹2,100 for women. The party further said the Yamuna River would be cleaned (Something Kejriwal promised in the previous election as well) and promised to provide scholarships covering all expenses for Dalit students studying abroad. &nbsp;
AAP said if it would get another opportunity to rule Delhi, there would be free bus and metro travel for students and the party would construct world-class roads.
<figure class="image"><img alt="AAP Manifesto 2025" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/724x1024/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/02/cyrZNGqP2dgMmJTnA4m6.jpeg" style="width: 724px;">
<figcaption>AAP Manifesto 2025 Photograph: (AAP )</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>'Vikasit Dilli Sankalp Patra'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-are-delhi-assembly-elections-scheduled-for-wednesday-india-chief-election-commissioner-rajiv-kumar-explains-8600043">Why are Delhi elections scheduled for Wednesday? CEC Rajiv Kumar explains</a>
The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), ruling at the center, unveiled its manifesto under the title "Vikasit Dilli Sankalp Patra" (Developed Delhi resolution letter). The party, under the leadership of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, promised Mahila Samridhi Yojana (Women Prosperity Scheme), an expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, and ₹10 lakh health insurance for senior citizens and economically disadvantaged families. &nbsp;
One of the big promises includes 50,000 government jobs for the youth.&nbsp;
It also said that the BJP would provide free electricity for up to 200 units, ₹500 subsidies on LPG cylinders along with giving free cylinders during festivals like Holi and Diwali if it wins the upcoming election.&nbsp;
<iframe style="width: 700px; aspect-ratio: 3/4;" src="https://www.wionews.com/files/wion/media/files/2025/02/02/delhi-electio-manifesto-3-2025.pdf" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<h2>Congress manifesto 2025&nbsp;</h2>
The grand old party Congress has promised ₹2,500 per month for women under the Pyari Didi Yojana. Exceeding the promises by BJP and AAP, the party has said it would provide free electricity for up to 300 units if it forms government in Delhi.&nbsp;
To all the qualified jobless people, the party has promised a monthly support amount of ₹8,500.&nbsp;
It has further promised to establish 100 Indira canteens throughout the national capital that would provide healthy and complete meals at ₹5.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lost-faith-in-him-7-mlas-quit-aap-just-five-days-before-delhi-elections-8678482">'Lost faith in Kejriwal': 7 MLAs quit AAP just five days before Delhi election</a>
Under the Jeevan Raksha Yojana, Congress has promised ₹25 lakh health insurance coverage for all Delhi residents.&nbsp;
Furthermore, the party has promised to provide subsidised LPG cylinders at ₹500.&nbsp;
<iframe style="width: 700px; aspect-ratio: 3/4;" src="https://www.wionews.com/files/wion/media/files/2025/02/02/fwcs.pdf" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<h2>The triangle battle&nbsp;</h2>
BJP has not been in power in the national capital for 27 years and is eager to topple the government of AAP which has been ruling Delhi since 2015. Meanwhile, the last time Congress ruled Delhi was in 2013 after which the party has lost every election in Delhi.&nbsp;
(With inputs from BJP, AAP, Congress manifestos)&nbsp;

India News: The Indian capital is all set to choose its next chief minister in the upcoming Delhi Assembly election, scheduled for Wednesday (Feb 5). The results will be announced on February 8.

The Indian capital is all set to choose its next chief minister in the upcoming Delhi Assembly election, scheduled for Wednesday (Feb 5). The results will be announced on February 8. The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP), and Congress are the top contenders on the list. All the parties have unveiled their respective manifestos with major promises to the people of Delhi. Let's take a look at who has claimed to offer what: 'Kejriwal ki guarantee' Also read: Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), currently ruling Delhi, released its manifesto titled "Kejriwal ki guarantee" (Guarantee of Kejriwal) having 15 promises. The major ones are: job creation, cash for women, and free medical treatment for senior citizens. The party, under former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, also promised to provide 24/7 clean drinking water to all households in the national capital. It has also promised to provide a monthly amount of ₹2,100 for women. The party further said the Yamuna River would be cleaned (Something Kejriwal promised in the previous election as well) and promised to provide scholarships covering all expenses for Dalit students studying abroad. AAP said if it would get another opportunity to rule Delhi, there would be free bus and metro travel for students and the party would construct world-class roads. AAP Manifesto 2025 Photograph: (AAP ) 'Vikasit Dilli Sankalp Patra' Also read: Why are Delhi elections scheduled for Wednesday? CEC Rajiv Kumar explains The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), ruling at the center, unveiled its manifesto under the title "Vikasit Dilli Sankalp Patra" (Developed Delhi resolution letter). The party, under the leadership of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, promised Mahila Samridhi Yojana (Women Prosperity Scheme), an expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, and ₹10 lakh health insurance for senior citizens and economically disadvantaged families. One of the big promises includes 50,000 government jobs for the youth. It also said that the BJP would provide free electricity for up to 200 units, ₹500 subsidies on LPG cylinders along with giving free cylinders during festivals like Holi and Diwali if it wins the upcoming election. Congress manifesto 2025 The grand old party Congress has promised ₹2,500 per month for women under the Pyari Didi Yojana. Exceeding the promises by BJP and AAP, the party has said it would provide free electricity for up to 300 units if it forms government in Delhi. To all the qualified jobless people, the party has promised a monthly support amount of ₹8,500. It has further promised to establish 100 Indira canteens throughout the national capital that would provide healthy and complete meals at ₹5. Also read: 'Lost faith in Kejriwal': 7 MLAs quit AAP just five days before Delhi election Under the Jeevan Raksha Yojana, Congress has promised ₹25 lakh health insurance coverage for all Delhi residents. Furthermore, the party has promised to provide subsidised LPG cylinders at ₹500. The triangle battle BJP has not been in power in the national capital for 27 years and is eager to topple the government of AAP which has been ruling Delhi since 2015. Meanwhile, the last time Congress ruled Delhi was in 2013 after which the party has lost every election in Delhi. (With inputs from BJP, AAP, Congress manifestos)

Delhi Assembly election: AAP vs BJP vs Congress, who has promised what? A look at manifestos

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal, on Sunday (Feb 2), accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of trying to deceive residents of Delhi's slums by offering them a sum of Rs 3,000 ($34.59) and falsely promising that they can cast their votes from the comfort of their own homes through the Election Commission.&nbsp;
Kejriwal said, "Today, I have received many calls from jhuggis. Their (BJP) party is going door to door and asking the people living there--take Rs 3,000, and the Election Commission will facilitate home voting. I was shocked when I heard this. This is a conspiracy to trap you."
He then urged the citizens to beware of such a scam stating that he "could not sleep" after learning about the alleged plot.
"I am your big brother, I couldn't sleep last night. I suggest you not to fall for the trap--otherwise, if you vote for them and get your finger inked, they will put a case against you and arrest you," the AAP supremo claimed.
He then said that if the BJP was offering people money for free, they should take it but not vote for the saffron party.
"If they are giving you money for free, take it, but don't vote for them," he added.
The AAP chief alleged that if BJP won the elections and came to power in the national capital, they would demolish slum settlements.
"Even if by mistake, the BJP government comes, they (BJP) will remove jhuggis. In Mumbai, they have given Dharavi--Asia's largest slum--to one of their friends," Kejriwal said.
Kejriwal also wrote a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner accusing BJP workers of intimidating and harassing his party's workers in the New Delhi Assembly constituency
In his letter, Kejriwal said, "I am writing to express my grave concern over the intimidation and harassment being meted out to our grass-root volunteers in the New Delhi Assembly Constituency at the hands of BJP workers and Delhi Police in the run-up to election day."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-elections-2025-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-bjp-supporters-to-vote-for-aap-regardless-of-their-party-affiliation-8679837">Also read: Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign</a>
<h2>PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls</h2>
Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (Feb 2), took a swipe at AAP referring to its symbol stating that with the members of the party exiting, the party was staring at its defeat in the Delhi assembly elections.
"Jhaadu ke tinke bikhar rahe hai" which roughly translates to "parts of the broomstick are splintering," he said.
Exuding confidence in BJP's victory in the Delhi Assembly polls, PM Modi, while addressing a public rally at New Delhi's RK Puram, likened the changing weather to the promise of a "new spring of development" for the national capital.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: The AAP chief alleged that BJP won the elections and came to power in the national capital, they would demolish slum settlements.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal, on Sunday (Feb 2), accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of trying to deceive residents of Delhi's slums by offering them a sum of Rs 3,000 ($34.59) and falsely promising that they can cast their votes from the comfort of their own homes through the Election Commission. Kejriwal said, "Today, I have received many calls from jhuggis. Their (BJP) party is going door to door and asking the people living there--take Rs 3,000, and the Election Commission will facilitate home voting. I was shocked when I heard this. This is a conspiracy to trap you." He then urged the citizens to beware of such a scam stating that he "could not sleep" after learning about the alleged plot. "I am your big brother, I couldn't sleep last night. I suggest you not to fall for the trap--otherwise, if you vote for them and get your finger inked, they will put a case against you and arrest you," the AAP supremo claimed. He then said that if the BJP was offering people money for free, they should take it but not vote for the saffron party. "If they are giving you money for free, take it, but don't vote for them," he added. The AAP chief alleged that if BJP won the elections and came to power in the national capital, they would demolish slum settlements. "Even if by mistake, the BJP government comes, they (BJP) will remove jhuggis. In Mumbai, they have given Dharavi--Asia's largest slum--to one of their friends," Kejriwal said. Kejriwal also wrote a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner accusing BJP workers of intimidating and harassing his party's workers in the New Delhi Assembly constituency In his letter, Kejriwal said, "I am writing to express my grave concern over the intimidation and harassment being meted out to our grass-root volunteers in the New Delhi Assembly Constituency at the hands of BJP workers and Delhi Police in the run-up to election day." Also read: Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (Feb 2), took a swipe at AAP referring to its symbol stating that with the members of the party exiting, the party was staring at its defeat in the Delhi assembly elections. "Jhaadu ke tinke bikhar rahe hai" which roughly translates to "parts of the broomstick are splintering," he said. Exuding confidence in BJP's victory in the Delhi Assembly polls, PM Modi, while addressing a public rally at New Delhi's RK Puram, likened the changing weather to the promise of a "new spring of development" for the national capital. (With inputs from agencies)

Kejriwal accuses BJP of  trying to deceive slum residents in Delhi by offering them money

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (Feb 2), took a swipe at AAP referring to its symbol stating that with the members of the party exiting, the party was staring at its defeat in the Delhi assembly elections.
"Jhaadu ke tinke bikhar rahe hai" which roughly translates to "parts of the broomstick are splintering," he said.
Exuding confidence in BJP's victory in the Delhi Assembly polls, PM Modi, while addressing a public rally at New Delhi's RK Puram, likened the changing weather to the promise of a "new spring of development" for the national capital.
"In a few days, a new spring of development will arrive in Delhi. This time, the BJP government is about to form in Delhi. The 'AAP-da party' has wasted 11 years. My biggest request is that we should be given a chance to serve the people of Delhi. I promise to go to any length to remove every difficulty you face. A double-engine government will come to Delhi that will make the lives of every poor and middle-class family prosperous," he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-elections-2025-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-bjp-supporters-to-vote-for-aap-regardless-of-their-party-affiliation-8679837">Also read: Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign</a>
<h2>'Broom's bristles are scattering'</h2>
PM Modi then said that even before the voting in the assembly polls, the bristles of the broomstick were scattering, referring to the Aam Aadmi Party's symbol.&nbsp;
"Aajkal hum dekh rahe hai ki voting se pehle hi jhaadu ke tinke bikhar rahe hai (Nowadays, we are seeing that even before the voting, broomstick is scattering everywhere). Leaders of AAP are leaving because they realize how angry the people are with AAP. The AAP party is so rattled by the anger of Delhi's people that they are making false claims every hour," PM Modi said.
Haling the Union Budget presented on Saturday (Feb 1), he said that it was a budget for the people and for their aspirations.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6nffn0p-52o7i8pp-oy33g12y">
दिल्लीवासियों को सिर्फ भाजपा पर भरोसा है क्योंकि वह जो कहती है, वो करती है। आरके पुरम में उमड़े जनसैलाब से यह साफ है कि दिल्ली में कमल खिलकर रहेगा। <a href="https://t.co/WrH22wzDIf">https://t.co/WrH22wzDIf</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1885962194396815500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
"In the past 10 years, India's economy has moved from tenth place to the fifth place. The country's economic strength is increasing, and the income of citizens is also rising. Had the situation been different, this increasing income would have gone into scams and fallen prey to corruption. But the honest BJP government is using this money for the welfare of the nation, whether it is for the poor, middle class, rural or urban residents," PM Modi said.
<h2>Eight MLAs resign from AAP</h2>
Eight Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs stepped down from their posts on Friday (Jan 31) after they were denied tickets to contest the upcoming polls.
The MLAs in their resignation letter cited 'significant deviation' from the values and principles on which the party was founded and accused it of abandoning its founding principles of corruption-free governance, and transparency, and exhibiting traits of centralisation, opacity, and a lack of internal democracy.
The MLAs who have resigned are: Naresh Yadav from Mehrauli, Rohit Kumar from Trilokpuri, Madan Lal from Kasturba Nagar, Rajesh Rishi from Janakpuri, Bhavna Gaud from Palam, Bhupinder Singh Joon from Bijwasan, Pawan Kumar Sharma from Adarsh Nagar and Girish Soni from Madipur.
The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled to take place on February 5, and counting of votes will be held on February 8.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Exuding confidence in BJP's victory in the Delhi Assembly polls, PM Modi, while addressing a public rally at New Delhi's RK Puram, likened the changing weather to the promise of a "new spring of development" for the national capital.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (Feb 2), took a swipe at AAP referring to its symbol stating that with the members of the party exiting, the party was staring at its defeat in the Delhi assembly elections. "Jhaadu ke tinke bikhar rahe hai" which roughly translates to "parts of the broomstick are splintering," he said. Exuding confidence in BJP's victory in the Delhi Assembly polls, PM Modi, while addressing a public rally at New Delhi's RK Puram, likened the changing weather to the promise of a "new spring of development" for the national capital. "In a few days, a new spring of development will arrive in Delhi. This time, the BJP government is about to form in Delhi. The 'AAP-da party' has wasted 11 years. My biggest request is that we should be given a chance to serve the people of Delhi. I promise to go to any length to remove every difficulty you face. A double-engine government will come to Delhi that will make the lives of every poor and middle-class family prosperous," he said. Also read: Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign 'Broom's bristles are scattering' PM Modi then said that even before the voting in the assembly polls, the bristles of the broomstick were scattering, referring to the Aam Aadmi Party's symbol. "Aajkal hum dekh rahe hai ki voting se pehle hi jhaadu ke tinke bikhar rahe hai (Nowadays, we are seeing that even before the voting, broomstick is scattering everywhere). Leaders of AAP are leaving because they realize how angry the people are with AAP. The AAP party is so rattled by the anger of Delhi's people that they are making false claims every hour," PM Modi said. Haling the Union Budget presented on Saturday (Feb 1), he said that it was a budget for the people and for their aspirations. दिल्लीवासियों को सिर्फ भाजपा पर भरोसा है क्योंकि वह जो कहती है, वो करती है। आरके पुरम में उमड़े जनसैलाब से यह साफ है कि दिल्ली में कमल खिलकर रहेगा। https://t.co/WrH22wzDIf — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 2, 2025 "In the past 10 years, India's economy has moved from tenth place to the fifth place. The country's economic strength is increasing, and the income of citizens is also rising. Had the situation been different, this increasing income would have gone into scams and fallen prey to corruption. But the honest BJP government is using this money for the welfare of the nation, whether it is for the poor, middle class, rural or urban residents," PM Modi said. Eight MLAs resign from AAP Eight Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs stepped down from their posts on Friday (Jan 31) after they were denied tickets to contest the upcoming polls. The MLAs in their resignation letter cited 'significant deviation' from the values and principles on which the party was founded and accused it of abandoning its founding principles of corruption-free governance, and transparency, and exhibiting traits of centralisation, opacity, and a lack of internal democracy. The MLAs who have resigned are: Naresh Yadav from Mehrauli, Rohit Kumar from Trilokpuri, Madan Lal from Kasturba Nagar, Rajesh Rishi from Janakpuri, Bhavna Gaud from Palam, Bhupinder Singh Joon from Bijwasan, Pawan Kumar Sharma from Adarsh Nagar and Girish Soni from Madipur. The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled to take place on February 5, and counting of votes will be held on February 8. (With inputs from agencies)

'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls

The government has amended the Aadhaar Act to allow private entities to use Aadhaar authentication for delivering their services, according to a notification issued on Friday. Watch in for more details!

India: Government Expands Aadhaar Authentication Usage: How Will This Work? | WION Explained

With successive flight trials of a very short-range air defense system, India has shown its military prowess once again. Three flight trials of the very short-range air defense missile system were conducted from Chandipur off the coast of the Indian state of Odisha. Watch in for more details!

India's military prowess: DRDO successfully conducts successive flight-trials of 'Vshorads'

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/simplified-kyc-process-coming-in-2025-with-new-central-registry-8681980">Union Budget</a> on Saturday (Feb 1) with a special focus on the state of Bihar. Apart from the announcement of the Makhana board in the state to boost the production, processing, and marketing of foxnuts, the FM has promised expansion of IITs, a boost to food processing sector, greenfield airports, and much more.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2025-no-tax-up-to-rs-12-lakh-focus-on-stability-and-long-term-growth-8681961">Budget 2025: No tax up to Rs 12 lakh, focus on stability and long-term growth</a>
A budget comparatively more focused on Bihar than the rest of the Indian states sparked a meme fest online.&nbsp;
Take a look:&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6m8yf52-5mibz14k-zzqrqvth">
Bihar after Union Budget 2025: <a href="https://t.co/amld28Te51">pic.twitter.com/amld28Te51</a>
&mdash; Xavier Uncle (@xavierunclelite) <a href="https://twitter.com/xavierunclelite/status/1885588174921228598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6m8ytx9-pbxh68rd-cm4ew7dx">
Bihar after Union Budget 2025: <a href="https://t.co/HJndeD63MC">pic.twitter.com/HJndeD63MC</a>
&mdash; priyA (@priyapalni) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyapalni/status/1885603886821687516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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<figure class="image"><img alt="Union Budget 2025 " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/680x448/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/2L2tzj6EmdmGCpzasEsp.jpeg" style="width: 680px;">
<figcaption>Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X)</figcaption>
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<figure class="image"><img alt="Union Budget 2025 " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/773x435/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/OU0eukECfgddXfWHWQQd.png" style="width: 773px;">
<figcaption>Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X)</figcaption>
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<figure class="image"><img alt="Union Budget 2025 " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/679x538/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/9L1cvzvth916ZZMcUZSx.jpeg" style="width: 679px;">
<figcaption>Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X)</figcaption>
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<figure class="image"><img alt="Union Budget 2025 " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/599x680/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/jvfKuvVEdAFfTZzRjFhw.jpeg" style="width: 599px;">
<figcaption>Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X)</figcaption>
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Budget for Budget for other states Bihar <a href="https://t.co/cpzGyznmkn">pic.twitter.com/cpzGyznmkn</a>
&mdash; Sober (@Soberhere_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Soberhere_/status/1885578213482786952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Bihar&rsquo;s budget vs other states <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BudgetSession2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BudgetSession2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/StuU5uWnyk">pic.twitter.com/StuU5uWnyk</a>
&mdash; Tanu_🐼. (@tanu_sthetic) <a href="https://twitter.com/tanu_sthetic/status/1885581696323682689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
<figure class="image"><img alt="Union Budget 2025 " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/631x680/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/6hagtGiMqYPFkUKYhN6s.jpeg" style="width: 631px;">
<figcaption>Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X)</figcaption>
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<figure class="image"><img alt="Union Budget 2025 " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/680x608/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/G1nay2jVpZx8C71UlEPt.jpeg" style="width: 680px;">
<figcaption>Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X)</figcaption>
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Bihar to other states right now<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/FYeALlZoCI">pic.twitter.com/FYeALlZoCI</a>
&mdash; No Context Humans (@weiredthings09) <a href="https://twitter.com/weiredthings09/status/1885582091527872914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Indian Budget ❌ Bihar Budget ✅ <a href="https://t.co/iIitKZ2ZZM">pic.twitter.com/iIitKZ2ZZM</a>
&mdash; Budhil Vyas (@BudhilVyas) <a href="https://twitter.com/BudhilVyas/status/1885572084350239145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Most repeated words. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/4pjtahNdks">pic.twitter.com/4pjtahNdks</a>
&mdash; Sagar (@sagarcasm) <a href="https://twitter.com/sagarcasm/status/1885572268828639415?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Summary of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/yvQKMizqta">pic.twitter.com/yvQKMizqta</a>
&mdash; Rajabets 🇮🇳👑 (@rajabetsindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajabetsindia/status/1885584259118666131?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
Apart from a number of schemes and plans for the state, the FM introduced a new and special plan for Bihar and other states of the Eastern region of India.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-what-bihar-got-in-budget-nitish-kumar-bjp-nda-8681663">Union Budget 2025: Major sops for Bihar ahead of assembly polls. All you need to know</a>
<h2>Purvodaya plan&nbsp;</h2>
The Centre announced the formulation of a plan, Purvodaya, which is dedicated to the overall development of the Eastern states of India. The states under the project include Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. It also includes the south-eastern state of Andhra Pradesh. On the Amritsar Kolkata Industrial Corridor, the Centre has planned to develop an industrial node at Gaya.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oppositions-rejection-modis-applause-union-budget-2025-evokes-mixed-reactions-8681475" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Opposition's rejection, Modi's applause: Union Budget 2025 evokes mixed reactions</a>
The corridor will catalyse the industrial development of the state. The FM said the model would showcase &ldquo;Vikas bhi Virasat bhi&rdquo; (development as well as heritage) in the government's growth trajectory.
The government has further promised to develop road connectivity projects:&nbsp; (1) Patna-Purnea Expressway&nbsp; (2) Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway (3) Bodhgaya, Rajgir and Vaishali and Darbhanga spurs (4) Additional 2-lane bridge&nbsp;
This will be done over the river Ganga at Buxar at a total cost of ₹26,000 crore ($2.990 million).&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News | Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive Union Budget on Saturday (Feb 1) with a special focus on the state of Bihar. 

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive Union Budget on Saturday (Feb 1) with a special focus on the state of Bihar. Apart from the announcement of the Makhana board in the state to boost the production, processing, and marketing of foxnuts, the FM has promised expansion of IITs, a boost to food processing sector, greenfield airports, and much more. Also read: Budget 2025: No tax up to Rs 12 lakh, focus on stability and long-term growth A budget comparatively more focused on Bihar than the rest of the Indian states sparked a meme fest online. Take a look: Bihar after Union Budget 2025: pic.twitter.com/amld28Te51 — Xavier Uncle (@xavierunclelite) February 1, 2025 Bihar after Union Budget 2025: pic.twitter.com/HJndeD63MC — priyA (@priyapalni) February 1, 2025 Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X) Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X) Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X) Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X) Budget for Budget for other states Bihar pic.twitter.com/cpzGyznmkn — Sober (@Soberhere_) February 1, 2025 Bihar’s budget vs other states #BudgetSession2025 pic.twitter.com/StuU5uWnyk — Tanu_🐼. (@tanu_sthetic) February 1, 2025 Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X) Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (X) Bihar to other states right now#Budget2025 pic.twitter.com/FYeALlZoCI — No Context Humans (@weiredthings09) February 1, 2025 Indian Budget ❌ Bihar Budget ✅ pic.twitter.com/iIitKZ2ZZM — Budhil Vyas (@BudhilVyas) February 1, 2025 Most repeated words. #Budget2025 pic.twitter.com/4pjtahNdks — Sagar (@sagarcasm) February 1, 2025 Summary of #Budget2025 pic.twitter.com/yvQKMizqta — Rajabets 🇮🇳👑 (@rajabetsindia) February 1, 2025 Apart from a number of schemes and plans for the state, the FM introduced a new and special plan for Bihar and other states of the Eastern region of India. Also read: Union Budget 2025: Major sops for Bihar ahead of assembly polls. All you need to know Purvodaya plan The Centre announced the formulation of a plan, Purvodaya, which is dedicated to the overall development of the Eastern states of India. The states under the project include Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. It also includes the south-eastern state of Andhra Pradesh. On the Amritsar Kolkata Industrial Corridor, the Centre has planned to develop an industrial node at Gaya. Also read: Opposition's rejection, Modi's applause: Union Budget 2025 evokes mixed reactions The corridor will catalyse the industrial development of the state. The FM said the model would showcase “Vikas bhi Virasat bhi” (development as well as heritage) in the government's growth trajectory. The government has further promised to develop road connectivity projects: (1) Patna-Purnea Expressway (2) Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway (3) Bodhgaya, Rajgir and Vaishali and Darbhanga spurs (4) Additional 2-lane bridge This will be done over the river Ganga at Buxar at a total cost of ₹26,000 crore ($2.990 million). (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2025: Nirmala Sitharaman's focus on Bihar sparks meme fest online

A day after eight Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs resigned from the party, they joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This comes just four days before the Delhi Assembly election.&nbsp;
All eight MLAs quit from the primary membership of AAP on Friday, citing reasons like alleged corruption and having lost faith in the party's national convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, and the party.
All eight legislators had been denied poll tickets by AAP this time.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/tax-simplification-is-complete-after-budget-2025-fm-nirmala-sitharaman-promises-income-tax-reforms-bill-next-week-8681348" rel="dofollow"> &lsquo;Tax simplification is complete&rsquo;: After Budget 2025, FM Sitharaman promises income tax reforms bill next week</a>
<h2>Who are the MLAs?</h2>
The eight MLAs are Vandana Gaur (Palam), Rohit Mehraulia (Trilokpuri), Girish Soni (Madipur), Madan Lal (Kasturba Nagar), Rajesh Rishi (Uttam Nagar), BS Joon (Bijwasan), Naresh Yadav (Mehrauli) and Pawan Sharma (Adarsh Nagar).
As soon as they resigned, they also said that they had sent their resignation letters to the Assembly Speaker.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-elections-2025-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-bjp-supporters-to-vote-for-aap-regardless-of-their-party-affiliation-8679837" rel="dofollow">Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign</a>
The legislators joined the BJP in the presence of the party's national vice-president Baijayant Panda, and the Delhi unit chief, Virendraa Sachdeva.&nbsp;
Panda welcomed the new members, calling it a "historic day", saying that they had freed themselves from "AAPda" (disaster).&nbsp;
Panda added that after the February 5 elections, Delhi too would be rid of AAP.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lost-faith-in-him-7-mlas-quit-aap-just-five-days-before-delhi-elections-8678482" rel="dofollow">'Lost faith in Kejriwal': 7 MLAs quit AAP just five days before Delhi election</a>
Yesterday, Palam MLA Bhawna Gaur, in a letter to the AAP national convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, said that she was quitting because she lost faith in him and the party.&nbsp;
"I hereby resign from the primary membership of the Aam Aadmi Party as I have lost faith in you and the party. Please accept the same," Bhawna Gaur and Madan Lal wrote in two separate letters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-supremo-arvind-kejriwal-challenges-bjp-and-congress-leaders-to-drink-yamuna-water-8674533" rel="dofollow">AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal challenges BJP and Congress leaders to drink Yamuna water</a>
AAP is seeking a third consecutive five-year term in Delhi and faces a stiff challenge from the BJP this time. The Congress is the third major party in the contention.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: All the eight MLAs quit from the primary membership of AAP on Friday, citing reasons like alleged corruption and having lost faith in Arvind Kejriwal.

A day after eight Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs resigned from the party, they joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This comes just four days before the Delhi Assembly election. All eight MLAs quit from the primary membership of AAP on Friday, citing reasons like alleged corruption and having lost faith in the party's national convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, and the party. All eight legislators had been denied poll tickets by AAP this time. Also read: ‘Tax simplification is complete’: After Budget 2025, FM Sitharaman promises income tax reforms bill next week Who are the MLAs? The eight MLAs are Vandana Gaur (Palam), Rohit Mehraulia (Trilokpuri), Girish Soni (Madipur), Madan Lal (Kasturba Nagar), Rajesh Rishi (Uttam Nagar), BS Joon (Bijwasan), Naresh Yadav (Mehrauli) and Pawan Sharma (Adarsh Nagar). As soon as they resigned, they also said that they had sent their resignation letters to the Assembly Speaker. Also read: Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign The legislators joined the BJP in the presence of the party's national vice-president Baijayant Panda, and the Delhi unit chief, Virendraa Sachdeva. Panda welcomed the new members, calling it a "historic day", saying that they had freed themselves from "AAPda" (disaster). Panda added that after the February 5 elections, Delhi too would be rid of AAP. Also read: 'Lost faith in Kejriwal': 7 MLAs quit AAP just five days before Delhi election Yesterday, Palam MLA Bhawna Gaur, in a letter to the AAP national convenor, Arvind Kejriwal, said that she was quitting because she lost faith in him and the party. "I hereby resign from the primary membership of the Aam Aadmi Party as I have lost faith in you and the party. Please accept the same," Bhawna Gaur and Madan Lal wrote in two separate letters. Also read: AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal challenges BJP and Congress leaders to drink Yamuna water AAP is seeking a third consecutive five-year term in Delhi and faces a stiff challenge from the BJP this time. The Congress is the third major party in the contention. (With inputs from agencies)

Eight MLAs who quit AAP join BJP four days ahead of Delhi Assembly election

ANI | Eight Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Saturday, the police said. The gunfight broke out around 8.30 am in the forest in the Gangaloor police station area and search operations were still being carried out, police further said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-in-jks-poonch-as-military-detects-movement-along-loc-8677149">India: Two terrorists killed in encounter in J&amp;K's Poonch as military detects movement along LoC</a>
"8 Naxals have been killed in an ongoing encounter between security forces and Naxals in the jungle under Gangaloor PS limit. Search operations are underway," said police.
District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), Cobra 202 and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) 222 battalion are involved in an anti-Maoist operation that was launched on Friday after receiving information about the presence of armed Naxalites in West Bastar Division.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-at-least-12-naxalites-killed-in-chhattisgarh-encounter-with-security-forces-8639656">India: At least 12 Naxalites killed in Chhattisgarh encounter with security forces</a>
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Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed&nbsp;to better reflect the content of the story&nbsp;or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.
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India News | The gunfight broke out around 8.30 am in the forest in the Gangaloor police station area and search operations were still being carried out, police further said. 

ANI | Eight Naxalites were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Saturday, the police said. The gunfight broke out around 8.30 am in the forest in the Gangaloor police station area and search operations were still being carried out, police further said. Also read: India: Two terrorists killed in encounter in J&K's Poonch as military detects movement along LoC "8 Naxals have been killed in an ongoing encounter between security forces and Naxals in the jungle under Gangaloor PS limit. Search operations are underway," said police. District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), Cobra 202 and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) 222 battalion are involved in an anti-Maoist operation that was launched on Friday after receiving information about the presence of armed Naxalites in West Bastar Division. Also read: India: At least 12 Naxalites killed in Chhattisgarh encounter with security forces Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Eight Naxalites killed in encounter with Indian security forces in Chhattisgarh

Ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections later in 2025, the Indian central government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), announced major sops for the politically significant state on Saturday (Feb 1) in the 2025 Union Budget.
Presenting her eighth consecutive budget, Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the setting up of a Makhana board in Bihar. The board is dedicated to boosting the production, processing, and marketing of foxnuts, which is a key agricultural product of Bihar.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The budget aims to invigorate private sector investments, uplift household sentiments, and bolster the power of India&rsquo;s rising middle class,&rdquo; Sitharaman said in her statement.&nbsp;
Makhana, a staple crop in Bihar, is generally produced in the Mithilanchal region of the state. The crop is already benefitting from the One District, One Product (ODOP) scheme of the government. The new board is expected to provide technical support, improve market linkages, and ensure better returns for farmers growing Makhana.&nbsp;
<figure class="image"><img alt="Union Budget 2025 " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/iIaO7gG7qkJ7A5prEc2V.png" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (Drishti IAS (Wesbsite))</figcaption>
</figure>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2025-whats-cheaper-and-whats-costlier-heres-a-detailed-list-8681544">Union Budget 2025: What's cheaper and what's costlier? Here's a detailed list</a>
In her speech, Sitharaman said this budget is aimed at ensuring balanced growth across all regions of the nation.&nbsp;
"Our economy is the fastest-growing among all major global economies. The world has recognised India's resilience and potential. The next five years present a unique opportunity to realise 'Sabka Vikas' by ensuring balanced growth across all regions," she said.
<h2>Expansion of IIT Patna</h2>
Furthermore, the FM announced that the capacity of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna will be expanded and made as part of a broader initiative to enhance IITs. As per this plan, additional infrastructure across five IITs will be developed to accommodate 6,500 more students.&nbsp;
<h2>Boost to food processing sector</h2>
Sitharaman further emphasised that the Centre is dedicated to strengthening the food processing sector of Bihar to uplift the poor in the state. To fulfil this goal, a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management is planned to be set up in the state that will be focused on promoting food processing activities across the region.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fm-sitharaman-announces-scheme-to-make-india-global-hub-for-toys-in-union-budget-2025-8681542">FM Sitharaman announces scheme to make India &lsquo;global hub for toys&rsquo; in Union Budget 2025</a>
Sitharaman said this initiative will help in achieving two major benefits:
First, it will increase the income of the farmers in Bihar by adding value to their produce. Second, it will generate employment opportunities by upgrading skills and promoting entrepreneurship among the youth of the state.&nbsp;
<h2>Western Kosi Canal ERM project</h2>
Under the 2025 Union budget, the Indian FM announced the Western Kosi Canal ERM project dedicated to benefiting farmers of Bihar. The project will aid farmers in cultivating over 50,000 hectares of land in the Mithila region of the state.&nbsp;
<h2>Greenfield airport&nbsp;</h2>
The FM also announced greenfield airports in Bihar, a brownfield airport in the Bihta district of the state, as well as the expansion of the existing airport in Patna.&nbsp;
<h2>Purvodaya plan&nbsp;</h2>
The Centre further announced the formulation of a plan, Purvodaya, which is dedicated to the overall development of the Eastern states of India. The states under the project include Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. It also includes the southern east state of Andhra Pradesh. On the Amritsar Kolkata Industrial Corridor, the Centre has planned to develop an industrial node at Gaya.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oppositions-rejection-modis-applause-union-budget-2025-evokes-mixed-reactions-8681475">Opposition's rejection, Modi's applause: Union Budget 2025 evokes mixed reactions</a>
The corridor will catalyse the industrial development of the state. The FM said the model would showcase &ldquo;Vikas bhi Virasat bhi&rdquo; (Development as well as heritage) in the government's growth trajectory.
The government has further promised to develop road connectivity projects:&nbsp; (1) Patna-Purnea Expressway&nbsp; (2) Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway (3) Bodhgaya, Rajgir and Vaishali and Darbhanga spurs (4) Additional 2-lane bridge&nbsp;
This will be done over the river Ganga at Buxar at a total cost of ₹26,000 crore ($2.990 million).&nbsp;
<h2>Irrigation and flood mitigation</h2>
Since Bihar has severely suffered from floods, which generally originated from outside of the country, the Centre will develop flood control structures in Nepal. &nbsp; Through the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme and other sources, the central government will provide financial support for projects with an estimated cost of ₹11,500 crore, such as the Kosi-Mechi intra-state link and 20 other ongoing and new schemes, including barrages, river pollution abatement, and irrigation projects.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-union-budget-2025-26-key-tds-changes-announced-this-year-8681206">Indian Union Budget 2025-26: Key TDS changes announced this year</a>
<h2>Tourism</h2>
Vishnupad Temple at Gaya and Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya of Bihar have immense spiritual signficance, and hence the government will comprehensively develop the structures.
This is to transform the temples into world-class pilgrim and tourist destinations.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News | Makhana, a staple crop in Bihar, is generally produced in the Mithilanchal region of the state. The crop is already benefitting from the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme of the government. 

Ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections later in 2025, the Indian central government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), announced major sops for the politically significant state on Saturday (Feb 1) in the 2025 Union Budget. Presenting her eighth consecutive budget, Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the setting up of a Makhana board in Bihar. The board is dedicated to boosting the production, processing, and marketing of foxnuts, which is a key agricultural product of Bihar. “The budget aims to invigorate private sector investments, uplift household sentiments, and bolster the power of India’s rising middle class,” Sitharaman said in her statement. Makhana, a staple crop in Bihar, is generally produced in the Mithilanchal region of the state. The crop is already benefitting from the One District, One Product (ODOP) scheme of the government. The new board is expected to provide technical support, improve market linkages, and ensure better returns for farmers growing Makhana. Union Budget 2025 Photograph: (Drishti IAS (Wesbsite)) Also read: Union Budget 2025: What's cheaper and what's costlier? Here's a detailed list In her speech, Sitharaman said this budget is aimed at ensuring balanced growth across all regions of the nation. "Our economy is the fastest-growing among all major global economies. The world has recognised India's resilience and potential. The next five years present a unique opportunity to realise 'Sabka Vikas' by ensuring balanced growth across all regions," she said. Expansion of IIT Patna Furthermore, the FM announced that the capacity of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna will be expanded and made as part of a broader initiative to enhance IITs. As per this plan, additional infrastructure across five IITs will be developed to accommodate 6,500 more students. Boost to food processing sector Sitharaman further emphasised that the Centre is dedicated to strengthening the food processing sector of Bihar to uplift the poor in the state. To fulfil this goal, a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management is planned to be set up in the state that will be focused on promoting food processing activities across the region. Also read: FM Sitharaman announces scheme to make India ‘global hub for toys’ in Union Budget 2025 Sitharaman said this initiative will help in achieving two major benefits: First, it will increase the income of the farmers in Bihar by adding value to their produce. Second, it will generate employment opportunities by upgrading skills and promoting entrepreneurship among the youth of the state. Western Kosi Canal ERM project Under the 2025 Union budget, the Indian FM announced the Western Kosi Canal ERM project dedicated to benefiting farmers of Bihar. The project will aid farmers in cultivating over 50,000 hectares of land in the Mithila region of the state. Greenfield airport The FM also announced greenfield airports in Bihar, a brownfield airport in the Bihta district of the state, as well as the expansion of the existing airport in Patna. Purvodaya plan The Centre further announced the formulation of a plan, Purvodaya, which is dedicated to the overall development of the Eastern states of India. The states under the project include Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. It also includes the southern east state of Andhra Pradesh. On the Amritsar Kolkata Industrial Corridor, the Centre has planned to develop an industrial node at Gaya. Also read: Opposition's rejection, Modi's applause: Union Budget 2025 evokes mixed reactions The corridor will catalyse the industrial development of the state. The FM said the model would showcase “Vikas bhi Virasat bhi” (Development as well as heritage) in the government's growth trajectory. The government has further promised to develop road connectivity projects: (1) Patna-Purnea Expressway (2) Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway (3) Bodhgaya, Rajgir and Vaishali and Darbhanga spurs (4) Additional 2-lane bridge This will be done over the river Ganga at Buxar at a total cost of ₹26,000 crore ($2.990 million). Irrigation and flood mitigation Since Bihar has severely suffered from floods, which generally originated from outside of the country, the Centre will develop flood control structures in Nepal. Through the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme and other sources, the central government will provide financial support for projects with an estimated cost of ₹11,500 crore, such as the Kosi-Mechi intra-state link and 20 other ongoing and new schemes, including barrages, river pollution abatement, and irrigation projects. Also read: Indian Union Budget 2025-26: Key TDS changes announced this year Tourism Vishnupad Temple at Gaya and Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya of Bihar have immense spiritual signficance, and hence the government will comprehensively develop the structures. This is to transform the temples into world-class pilgrim and tourist destinations. (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2025: Major sops for Bihar ahead of assembly polls. All you need to know

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday (Feb 1) announced a scheme to make India a global hub for toys by focusing on cluster development.
In her budget speech, Sitharaman said that the scheme will focus on the development of clusters, skills, and a manufacturing ecosystem that will create high-quality, unique, innovative, and sustainable toys that will represent the 'Made in India' brand.
"Building on the National Action Plan for Toys, we will implement a scheme to make India a global hub for toys," the FM said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/common-citizen-going-to-drive-mission-of-viksit-bharat-pm-modi-applauds-union-budget-2025-8680898">&lsquo;Force multiplier&rsquo; for India&rsquo;s growth: PM Modi applauds Union Budget 2025</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">National Manufacturing Mission</h2>
The Finance Minister also proposed a National Manufacturing Mission covering small, medium, and large industries for furthering &ldquo;Make in India&rdquo; in Budget 2025-26.&nbsp;
The Mission&rsquo;s mandate includes five focus areas: ease and cost of doing business, future-ready workforce for in-demand jobs, a vibrant and dynamic MSME sector, availability of technology, and quality products.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/band-aid-for-bullet-wounds-rahul-gandhi-criticises-centre-over-union-budget-2025-8681421">&lsquo;Band-aid for bullet wounds&rsquo;: Rahul Gandhi criticises Centre over Union Budget 2025</a>
&ldquo;Our government will set up a National Manufacturing Mission covering small, medium, and large industries for furthering &ldquo;Make in India&rdquo; by providing policy support, execution roadmaps, governance and monitoring framework for central ministries and states,&rdquo; Sitharaman said in her budget speech.
To promote employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in labour-intensive sectors, the government will also undertake specific policy and facilitation measures.
<h2 dir="ltr">New classification criteria for MSMEs</h2>
Sitharaman ,who presented her eighth consecutive Union Budget 2025 on Saturday, announced new classification criteria for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-union-budget-2025-finance-minister-announces-new-classification-criteria-for-msmes-8680260">India Union Budget 2025: Finance Minister announces new classification criteria for MSMEs</a>
She said that the Union Government will enhance credit guarantee cover for micro, small and medium enterprises to Rs 10 crore ($1,153,437) from the existing Rs 5 crore ($576,718).
Sitharaman said that customised credit cards with a limit of Rs 500,000 ($5767) will be started for small businesses registered on the Udyam Portal. These credit cards will be given to around 1 million businesses in the first year.
"The investment and turnover limits for the classification of all MSMEs will be enhanced to 2.5 and 2 times, respectively. This will give them the confidence to grow and generate employment for youth," she added.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveils an initiative aiming to position India as a global toy hub by enhancing cluster development, announced on February 1.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday (Feb 1) announced a scheme to make India a global hub for toys by focusing on cluster development. In her budget speech, Sitharaman said that the scheme will focus on the development of clusters, skills, and a manufacturing ecosystem that will create high-quality, unique, innovative, and sustainable toys that will represent the 'Made in India' brand. "Building on the National Action Plan for Toys, we will implement a scheme to make India a global hub for toys," the FM said. Also read | ‘Force multiplier’ for India’s growth: PM Modi applauds Union Budget 2025 National Manufacturing Mission The Finance Minister also proposed a National Manufacturing Mission covering small, medium, and large industries for furthering “Make in India” in Budget 2025-26. The Mission’s mandate includes five focus areas: ease and cost of doing business, future-ready workforce for in-demand jobs, a vibrant and dynamic MSME sector, availability of technology, and quality products. Also read | ‘Band-aid for bullet wounds’: Rahul Gandhi criticises Centre over Union Budget 2025 “Our government will set up a National Manufacturing Mission covering small, medium, and large industries for furthering “Make in India” by providing policy support, execution roadmaps, governance and monitoring framework for central ministries and states,” Sitharaman said in her budget speech. To promote employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in labour-intensive sectors, the government will also undertake specific policy and facilitation measures. New classification criteria for MSMEs Sitharaman ,who presented her eighth consecutive Union Budget 2025 on Saturday, announced new classification criteria for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Also read | India Union Budget 2025: Finance Minister announces new classification criteria for MSMEs She said that the Union Government will enhance credit guarantee cover for micro, small and medium enterprises to Rs 10 crore ($1,153,437) from the existing Rs 5 crore ($576,718). Sitharaman said that customised credit cards with a limit of Rs 500,000 ($5767) will be started for small businesses registered on the Udyam Portal. These credit cards will be given to around 1 million businesses in the first year. "The investment and turnover limits for the classification of all MSMEs will be enhanced to 2.5 and 2 times, respectively. This will give them the confidence to grow and generate employment for youth," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman announces scheme to make India ‘global hub for toys’

The Congress party has denounced the Centre over the Union Budget 2025 accusing the ruling BJP of timing the budget for its electoral gains ahead of Delhi assembly polls.
The grand old party further said the budget failed to address the economy's major pain points, including stagnant real wages, lack of buoyancy in mass consumption, sluggish rates of private investment, and a complicated GST system.
Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, "The economy is suffering from four related crises -- stagnant real wages, lack of buoyancy in mass consumption, sluggish rates of private investment, complex and complicated GST system."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6m4g77g-9yfxoeqz-3e4msu8q">
The economy is suffering from four related crises - i. Stagnant real wages ii. Lack of buoyancy in mass consumption iii. Sluggish rates of private investment iv. A complex and complicated GST system The Budget does NOTHING to address these illnesses. The only relief has been&hellip;
&mdash; Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jairam_Ramesh/status/1885593207104573931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
"The Budget does nothing to address these illnesses. The only relief has been for income tax payers. What actual impact this will have on the economy remains to be seen," he wrote on X.
He further took a swipe at the Narendra Modi government stating that even though Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman spoke about four engines of development, the Budget was "completely derailed".
"The FM spoke of four engines: Agriculture, MSMEs, Investment, and Exports. So many engines that the Budget has been completely derailed," said Ramesh.
<h2>'Bihar got bonanza, Andhra cruelly ignored'&nbsp;</h2>
He further said that while the state of Bihar appeared to have received a bonanza in the budget Andhra Pradesh was "cruelly ignored".
"Bihar appears to have got a bonanza of announcements. It is natural since elections are due there later in the year. But why has the other pillar of the NDA, namely Andhra Pradesh, been so cruelly ignored?" he wrote in a post on social media.
It is pertinent to mention that Andhra Pradesh's ruling Telugu Desam Party is a key ally in the National Democratic Alliance at the Centre.
<h2>&lsquo;To benefit from income tax relief, you need a job,&rsquo; says Shashi Tharoor&nbsp;</h2>
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor took a dig at the Centre over the budget, stating that to avail the benefit from tax exemption, one needs to be employed.
"I think, frankly, the applause you heard from the BJP benches was for the middle-class tax cut. We look at the details and that may be a good thing. So if you have a salary, you may be paying less tax. But the important question is, what happens if we don't have a salary?" Tharoor questioned.
"Where is the income going to come from? For you to benefit from income tax relief, you actually need jobs. Unemployment was not mentioned by the Finance Minister. Ironic that the party that wants one nation, one election is actually using each election in each state each year to give them more freebies. They may as well have multiple elections so they can get more applause from their allies," the Congress MP added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-exempts-basic-custom-duty-on-lifesaving-drugs-and-medicines-8680995">Also read: Union Budget 2025: 36 life saving drugs, medicines fully exempted from custom duty</a>
<h2>TMC MP Shatrughan Sinha calls budget a mere 'election-year lollipop'</h2>
TMC MP Shatrughan Sinha took a jibe at the Centre, calling the budget a mere "election-year lollipop".
"Bihar is my strength and I felt good about the provisions to Bihar, but it is also a time of elections, so was this an electoral budget taking Bihar on forefront?... Infrastructural development in Bihar is good, but is this enough? What happened to the big special packages mentioned earlier?... This budget, kept in view of Bihar, seems like a lollipop... Now about the salaried class, the exemption should have been 15 lakhs instead of 12 lakhs, but still, we appreciate it... A lot of things still need to be studied," said Sinha.&nbsp;
<h2>Modi hails budget</h2>
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 1) hailed the Union Budget 2025 as a crucial milestone in India's development journey, emphasising its focus on fulfilling the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians.
PM Modi envisions the common citizen driving the mission of Viksit Bharat, a testament to the government's commitment to inclusive growth and development.
"Today is an important milestone in India's development journey. This is the budget of aspirations of 140 crore Indians. This is a budget that fulfils the dreams of every Indian. We have opened many sectors for the youth. The common citizen is going to drive the mission of Viksit Bharat," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 1) hailed the Union Budget 2025 as a crucial milestone in India's development journey, emphasising its focus on fulfilling the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians.

The Congress party has denounced the Centre over the Union Budget 2025 accusing the ruling BJP of timing the budget for its electoral gains ahead of Delhi assembly polls. The grand old party further said the budget failed to address the economy's major pain points, including stagnant real wages, lack of buoyancy in mass consumption, sluggish rates of private investment, and a complicated GST system. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, "The economy is suffering from four related crises -- stagnant real wages, lack of buoyancy in mass consumption, sluggish rates of private investment, complex and complicated GST system." The economy is suffering from four related crises - i. Stagnant real wages ii. Lack of buoyancy in mass consumption iii. Sluggish rates of private investment iv. A complex and complicated GST system The Budget does NOTHING to address these illnesses. The only relief has been… — Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) February 1, 2025 "The Budget does nothing to address these illnesses. The only relief has been for income tax payers. What actual impact this will have on the economy remains to be seen," he wrote on X. He further took a swipe at the Narendra Modi government stating that even though Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman spoke about four engines of development, the Budget was "completely derailed". "The FM spoke of four engines: Agriculture, MSMEs, Investment, and Exports. So many engines that the Budget has been completely derailed," said Ramesh. 'Bihar got bonanza, Andhra cruelly ignored' He further said that while the state of Bihar appeared to have received a bonanza in the budget Andhra Pradesh was "cruelly ignored". "Bihar appears to have got a bonanza of announcements. It is natural since elections are due there later in the year. But why has the other pillar of the NDA, namely Andhra Pradesh, been so cruelly ignored?" he wrote in a post on social media. It is pertinent to mention that Andhra Pradesh's ruling Telugu Desam Party is a key ally in the National Democratic Alliance at the Centre. ‘To benefit from income tax relief, you need a job,’ says Shashi Tharoor Congress MP Shashi Tharoor took a dig at the Centre over the budget, stating that to avail the benefit from tax exemption, one needs to be employed. "I think, frankly, the applause you heard from the BJP benches was for the middle-class tax cut. We look at the details and that may be a good thing. So if you have a salary, you may be paying less tax. But the important question is, what happens if we don't have a salary?" Tharoor questioned. "Where is the income going to come from? For you to benefit from income tax relief, you actually need jobs. Unemployment was not mentioned by the Finance Minister. Ironic that the party that wants one nation, one election is actually using each election in each state each year to give them more freebies. They may as well have multiple elections so they can get more applause from their allies," the Congress MP added. Also read: Union Budget 2025: 36 life saving drugs, medicines fully exempted from custom duty TMC MP Shatrughan Sinha calls budget a mere 'election-year lollipop' TMC MP Shatrughan Sinha took a jibe at the Centre, calling the budget a mere "election-year lollipop". "Bihar is my strength and I felt good about the provisions to Bihar, but it is also a time of elections, so was this an electoral budget taking Bihar on forefront?... Infrastructural development in Bihar is good, but is this enough? What happened to the big special packages mentioned earlier?... This budget, kept in view of Bihar, seems like a lollipop... Now about the salaried class, the exemption should have been 15 lakhs instead of 12 lakhs, but still, we appreciate it... A lot of things still need to be studied," said Sinha. Modi hails budget Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 1) hailed the Union Budget 2025 as a crucial milestone in India's development journey, emphasising its focus on fulfilling the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. PM Modi envisions the common citizen driving the mission of Viksit Bharat, a testament to the government's commitment to inclusive growth and development. "Today is an important milestone in India's development journey. This is the budget of aspirations of 140 crore Indians. This is a budget that fulfils the dreams of every Indian. We have opened many sectors for the youth. The common citizen is going to drive the mission of Viksit Bharat," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Opposition's rejection, Modi's applause: Union Budget 2025 evokes mixed reactions

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (Feb 1) came out all guns blazing against the Union government over the budget 2025-26 calling it a &ldquo;band-aid for bullet wounds&rdquo;.
The Congress leader emphasised that solving the economic crisis requires a significant shift in approach, but the current government lacks innovative ideas.
&ldquo;A band-aid for bullet wounds! Amid global uncertainty, solving our economic crisis demanded a paradigm shift. But this government is bankrupt of ideas,&rdquo; Gandhi posted on X.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-proposes-to-include-crypto-assets-in-assessing-undisclosed-income-8681226">Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman proposes to include crypto assets in assessing undisclosed income</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Jairam Ramesh slams Centre</h2>
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh criticised the Union Budget, saying that it does &ldquo;nothing to address the illness&rdquo; of stagnant real wages, lack of buoyancy in mass consumption, sluggish rates of private investment, and a complicated GST system.
&ldquo;The economy is suffering from four related crises: Stagnant real wages, lack of buoyancy in mass consumption, sluggish rates of private investment and a complex and complicated GST system. The Budget does NOTHING to address these illnesses,&rdquo; he posted on X.
&ldquo;The only relief has been for income taxpayers. What actual impact this will have on the economy remains to be seen,&rdquo; the Congress leader added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/common-citizen-going-to-drive-mission-of-viksit-bharat-pm-modi-applauds-union-budget-2025-8680898">&lsquo;Force multiplier&rsquo; for India&rsquo;s growth: PM Modi applauds Union Budget 2025</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Bihar got &lsquo;bonanza&rsquo;</h2>
He further claimed that Bihar, where assembly elections are scheduled for later this year, has received a "bonanza of announcements" while Andhra Pradesh whose ruling TDP is a key ally in the National Democratic Alliance at the Centre has been "cruelly ignored."
&ldquo;Bihar appears to have got a bonanza of announcements. It is natural since elections are due there later in the year. But why has the other pillar of the NDA, namely Andhra Pradesh, been so cruelly ignored?,&rdquo; he wrote on X.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-announces-revamped-central-kyc-registry-to-be-rolled-out-8680702">Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman announces revamped central KYC registry</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Goal of 100 GW Nuclear Energy by 2047</h2>
In another post, Ramesh slammed the government's proposal to amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, calling it an attempt to appease US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
He alleged that the BJP, led by Arun Jaitley, had previously sabotaged the Act, which was favoured by international companies during Dr Manmohan Singh's tenure as Prime Minister.
&ldquo;The BJP led by Arun Jaitley successfully sabotaged the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 that international companies wanted when Dr Manmohan Singh was PM. Now to appease Mr. Trump, the FM announces that the Act will be amended,&rdquo; the Congress MP said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-union-budget-2025-finance-minister-announces-new-classification-criteria-for-msmes-8680260">India Union Budget 2025: Finance Minister announces new classification criteria for MSMEs</a>
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who presented her eighth consecutive Union Budget, announced a Nuclear Energy Mission. FM, in her budget speech, said, "Nuclear Energy Mission for Vikasit Bharat Development of at least 100 gigawatts of nuclear energy by 2047 is essential for our energy transition efforts."
To achieve this ambitious goal, the government plans to amend key laws, including the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, to enable greater participation from the private sector.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Rahul Gandhi criticised the Union government's budget, labelling it as insufficient for addressing major issues, and termed it a "band-aid for bullet wounds."

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (Feb 1) came out all guns blazing against the Union government over the budget 2025-26 calling it a “band-aid for bullet wounds”. The Congress leader emphasised that solving the economic crisis requires a significant shift in approach, but the current government lacks innovative ideas. “A band-aid for bullet wounds! Amid global uncertainty, solving our economic crisis demanded a paradigm shift. But this government is bankrupt of ideas,” Gandhi posted on X. Also read | Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman proposes to include crypto assets in assessing undisclosed income Jairam Ramesh slams Centre Congress MP Jairam Ramesh criticised the Union Budget, saying that it does “nothing to address the illness” of stagnant real wages, lack of buoyancy in mass consumption, sluggish rates of private investment, and a complicated GST system. “The economy is suffering from four related crises: Stagnant real wages, lack of buoyancy in mass consumption, sluggish rates of private investment and a complex and complicated GST system. The Budget does NOTHING to address these illnesses,” he posted on X. “The only relief has been for income taxpayers. What actual impact this will have on the economy remains to be seen,” the Congress leader added. Also read | ‘Force multiplier’ for India’s growth: PM Modi applauds Union Budget 2025 Bihar got ‘bonanza’ He further claimed that Bihar, where assembly elections are scheduled for later this year, has received a "bonanza of announcements" while Andhra Pradesh whose ruling TDP is a key ally in the National Democratic Alliance at the Centre has been "cruelly ignored." “Bihar appears to have got a bonanza of announcements. It is natural since elections are due there later in the year. But why has the other pillar of the NDA, namely Andhra Pradesh, been so cruelly ignored?,” he wrote on X. Also read | Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman announces revamped central KYC registry Goal of 100 GW Nuclear Energy by 2047 In another post, Ramesh slammed the government's proposal to amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, calling it an attempt to appease US President Donald Trump. He alleged that the BJP, led by Arun Jaitley, had previously sabotaged the Act, which was favoured by international companies during Dr Manmohan Singh's tenure as Prime Minister. “The BJP led by Arun Jaitley successfully sabotaged the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 that international companies wanted when Dr Manmohan Singh was PM. Now to appease Mr. Trump, the FM announces that the Act will be amended,” the Congress MP said. Also read | India Union Budget 2025: Finance Minister announces new classification criteria for MSMEs Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who presented her eighth consecutive Union Budget, announced a Nuclear Energy Mission. FM, in her budget speech, said, "Nuclear Energy Mission for Vikasit Bharat Development of at least 100 gigawatts of nuclear energy by 2047 is essential for our energy transition efforts." To achieve this ambitious goal, the government plans to amend key laws, including the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, to enable greater participation from the private sector. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Band-aid for bullet wounds’: Rahul Gandhi criticises Centre over Union Budget 2025

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in her budget speech on Saturday that people with salaries up to ₹12 lakh ($13,841) would not have to pay income tax as per the new tax regime under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-exempts-basic-custom-duty-on-lifesaving-drugs-and-medicines-8680995">Union Budget 2025</a> and the internet can't keep calm.&nbsp;
Just after the announcement, thrilled netizens took to social media to express their joy, and the internet was filled with hilarious memes.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/tax-simplification-is-complete-after-budget-2025-fm-nirmala-sitharaman-promises-income-tax-reforms-bill-next-week-8681348">'Tax simplification is complete': After Budget 2025, FM Sitharaman promises income tax reforms&nbsp;bill&nbsp;next&nbsp;week</a>
From Bollywood movies like Krrish, Welcome, and Lagaan, to using an AI image of Nirmala Sitharaman to show her as Jaya Bachchan from Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, take a look at this hilarious memefest:&nbsp;
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No tax till ₹12 Lakh income under new regime 😳. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ncx03MdRgb">pic.twitter.com/Ncx03MdRgb</a>
&mdash; k ♡ (@sarphiribalika_) <a href="https://twitter.com/sarphiribalika_/status/1885579853019197795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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NO INCOME TAX UPTO RS 12 LAKH! <a href="https://t.co/3k1EMgMipo">pic.twitter.com/3k1EMgMipo</a>
&mdash; Abhishek (@MSDianAbhiii) <a href="https://twitter.com/MSDianAbhiii/status/1885581548780478972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Finally No income tax upto rs 12 lakhs. Party guys<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IncomeTax?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IncomeTax</a> <a href="https://t.co/8E8bthFNwE">pic.twitter.com/8E8bthFNwE</a>
&mdash; 👑Che_ಕೃಷ್ಣ🇮🇳💛❤️ (@ChekrishnaCk) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChekrishnaCk/status/1885583160626549183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-union-budget-2025-26-key-tds-changes-announced-this-year-8681206">Indian Union Budget 2025-26: Key TDS changes announced this year</a>
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No Tax for up to ₹ 12 lakh income under new income tax regime. Meanwhile Salaried Middle Class Indian:-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NirmalaSitharaman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NirmalaSitharaman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BudgetSession?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BudgetSession</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%9C%E0%A4%9F2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#बजट2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IncomeTax?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IncomeTax</a> <a href="https://t.co/o2fMic4Sjm">pic.twitter.com/o2fMic4Sjm</a>
&mdash; Ashutosh Srivastava 🇮🇳 (@sri_ashutosh08) <a href="https://twitter.com/sri_ashutosh08/status/1885583773053710680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-govt-to-set-up-daycare-cancer-centres-in-all-district-hospitals-8681148">Union Budget 2025: Govt to set up daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals</a>
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No income tax upto 12 lacs Working Class right now: <a href="https://t.co/I21xlVoFIC">pic.twitter.com/I21xlVoFIC</a>
&mdash; Harshhh! (@Harsh_humour) <a href="https://twitter.com/Harsh_humour/status/1885582596039663759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
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No new income tax payable up to Rs 12 lakh income <a href="https://t.co/DDxKLPh9Aj">pic.twitter.com/DDxKLPh9Aj</a>
&mdash; rozgar_CA (@Memeswalaladka) <a href="https://twitter.com/Memeswalaladka/status/1885582492876341747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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No Income Tax Payable Up to 12 Lakh Rupees <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/ESAZiJGdt8">pic.twitter.com/ESAZiJGdt8</a>
&mdash; $achin Nayak (@SachinN18342436) <a href="https://twitter.com/SachinN18342436/status/1885582489865118010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Middle Class Reaction to No Income Tax upto 12 lakh 🔥🔥👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BudgetSession2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BudgetSession2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NirmalaSitharaman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NirmalaSitharaman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IncomeTax?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IncomeTax</a> <a href="https://t.co/pG7NTw8z6S">pic.twitter.com/pG7NTw8z6S</a>
&mdash; Rosy (@rose_k01) <a href="https://twitter.com/rose_k01/status/1885581871620190464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-govt-to-set-up-daycare-cancer-centres-in-all-district-hospitals-8681148">Union Budget 2025: Govt to set up daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals</a>
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No income tax upto 12 lacs Working Class right now: 😄 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BudgetSession?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BudgetSession</a> <a href="https://t.co/1u4njfBaQs">pic.twitter.com/1u4njfBaQs</a>
&mdash; Akash (@Akash03893128) <a href="https://twitter.com/Akash03893128/status/1885582580919263704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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🔥NO INCOME TAX UP TO INCOME OF 12 LAKH PER ANNUM<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BudgetSession?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BudgetSession</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BudgetDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BudgetDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NirmalaSitharaman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NirmalaSitharaman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IncomeTax?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IncomeTax</a> <a href="https://t.co/jIKpf9vYna">pic.twitter.com/jIKpf9vYna</a>
&mdash; Saikiran Kannan | 赛基兰坎南 (@saikirankannan) <a href="https://twitter.com/saikirankannan/status/1885579940004774090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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No income till 12 Lakh <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IncomeTax?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IncomeTax</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y89U3vbVlF">pic.twitter.com/Y89U3vbVlF</a>
&mdash; Abhishek Singh (@Shiv3627) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shiv3627/status/1885581361093693789?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
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No tax till 12 lakhs. Rejoice till it lasts. Consumerism shall rise again<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IncomeTax?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IncomeTax</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NirmalaSitharaman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NirmalaSitharaman</a> <a href="https://t.co/OQl5SGS81x">pic.twitter.com/OQl5SGS81x</a>
&mdash; MutualFundaz 🎖 (@FundazMutual) <a href="https://twitter.com/FundazMutual/status/1885581568191979664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
<figure class="image"><img alt="Budget 2025 memes" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/796x569/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/01/rA4AoExPjaDjmItAstF9.JPG" style="width: 796px;">
<figcaption>Budget 2025 memes Photograph: (X)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;Under the new tax regime, taxpayers earning up to Rs 12 lakh (Rs 12.75 lakh for salaried taxpayers with a standard deduction of Rs 75,000) will have to pay zero tax.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India news | Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that people with salaries up to ₹12 lakh ($13,841) would not have to pay any income tax as per the new regime under the Union Budget 2025, and the internet can't keep calm.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in her budget speech on Saturday that people with salaries up to ₹12 lakh ($13,841) would not have to pay income tax as per the new tax regime under the Union Budget 2025 and the internet can't keep calm. Just after the announcement, thrilled netizens took to social media to express their joy, and the internet was filled with hilarious memes. Also read: 'Tax simplification is complete': After Budget 2025, FM Sitharaman promises income tax reforms bill next week From Bollywood movies like Krrish, Welcome, and Lagaan, to using an AI image of Nirmala Sitharaman to show her as Jaya Bachchan from Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, take a look at this hilarious memefest: No tax till ₹12 Lakh income under new regime 😳. #Budget2025 pic.twitter.com/Ncx03MdRgb — k ♡ (@sarphiribalika_) February 1, 2025 NO INCOME TAX UPTO RS 12 LAKH! pic.twitter.com/3k1EMgMipo — Abhishek (@MSDianAbhiii) February 1, 2025 Finally No income tax upto rs 12 lakhs. Party guys#IncomeTax pic.twitter.com/8E8bthFNwE — 👑Che_ಕೃಷ್ಣ🇮🇳💛❤️ (@ChekrishnaCk) February 1, 2025 Also read: Indian Union Budget 2025-26: Key TDS changes announced this year No Tax for up to ₹ 12 lakh income under new income tax regime. Meanwhile Salaried Middle Class Indian:-#NirmalaSitharaman #BudgetSession#Budget2025 #बजट2025 #IncomeTax pic.twitter.com/o2fMic4Sjm — Ashutosh Srivastava 🇮🇳 (@sri_ashutosh08) February 1, 2025 Also read: Union Budget 2025: Govt to set up daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals No income tax upto 12 lacs Working Class right now: pic.twitter.com/I21xlVoFIC — Harshhh! (@Harsh_humour) February 1, 2025 No new income tax payable up to Rs 12 lakh income pic.twitter.com/DDxKLPh9Aj — rozgar_CA (@Memeswalaladka) February 1, 2025 No Income Tax Payable Up to 12 Lakh Rupees #Budget2025 pic.twitter.com/ESAZiJGdt8 — $achin Nayak (@SachinN18342436) February 1, 2025 Middle Class Reaction to No Income Tax upto 12 lakh 🔥🔥👏👏 #Budget2025 #BudgetSession2025 #NirmalaSitharaman #IncomeTax pic.twitter.com/pG7NTw8z6S — Rosy (@rose_k01) February 1, 2025 Also read: Union Budget 2025: Govt to set up daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals No income tax upto 12 lacs Working Class right now: 😄 #BudgetSession pic.twitter.com/1u4njfBaQs — Akash (@Akash03893128) February 1, 2025 🔥NO INCOME TAX UP TO INCOME OF 12 LAKH PER ANNUM#BudgetSession #Budget2025 #BudgetDay #NirmalaSitharaman #IncomeTax pic.twitter.com/jIKpf9vYna — Saikiran Kannan | 赛基兰坎南 (@saikirankannan) February 1, 2025 No income till 12 Lakh #IncomeTax pic.twitter.com/Y89U3vbVlF — Abhishek Singh (@Shiv3627) February 1, 2025 No tax till 12 lakhs. Rejoice till it lasts. Consumerism shall rise again#IncomeTax #NirmalaSitharaman pic.twitter.com/OQl5SGS81x — MutualFundaz 🎖 (@FundazMutual) February 1, 2025 Budget 2025 memes Photograph: (X) Under the new tax regime, taxpayers earning up to Rs 12 lakh (Rs 12.75 lakh for salaried taxpayers with a standard deduction of Rs 75,000) will have to pay zero tax. (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2025: No income tax up to ₹12 lakh. Internet has hilarious reactions

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday (Feb 1) announced measures to rationalise TDS to ease the compliance burden of Indian citizens.
Presenting her 8th consecutive budget under the Narendra Modi government, Sitharaman said the tax proposals for the financial year 2025-26 are guided by income tax reforms for the middle class, TDS rationalisation and easing the compliance burden.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-govt-to-set-up-daycare-cancer-centres-in-all-district-hospitals-8681148">Union Budget 2025: Govt to set up daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals</a>
<h2>TDS proposals in Budget 2025-26</h2>
Sitharaman on Saturday announced the rationalisation of the TDS (Tax Deduction at Source) regime to ease the compliance burden. She proposed a major relief for the middle class in India with the exemption of TCS (tax collected at source) for remittances for education purposes in cases where education loan is taken from specified financial institutions.
Meanwhile, for senior citizens, the limit for tax deduction on interest income would be doubled to Rs 1 lakh. Meanwhile, the limit for TDS on rent is proposed to be increased to Rs 6 lakh from the ₹2.40 lakh limit previously.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-exempts-basic-custom-duty-on-lifesaving-drugs-and-medicines-8680995">Union Budget 2025: 36 life saving drugs, medicines fully exempted from custom duty</a>
The government will also increase the limit of TCS on remittances under RBI's liberalised remittance scheme from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh. Besides, the budget extends the period of incorporation by five years for startups to avail of tax benefits.
Reforms are not destinations but means to achieve good governance for the people and economy, said the Indian finance minister, adding that the new I-T bill will be half of the current volume, clear and direct in wording.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Business & Economy: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's latest budget rationalises TDS, offering relief through tax exemptions and increased deduction limits for interest income and rent.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday (Feb 1) announced measures to rationalise TDS to ease the compliance burden of Indian citizens. Presenting her 8th consecutive budget under the Narendra Modi government, Sitharaman said the tax proposals for the financial year 2025-26 are guided by income tax reforms for the middle class, TDS rationalisation and easing the compliance burden. Also read | Union Budget 2025: Govt to set up daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals TDS proposals in Budget 2025-26 Sitharaman on Saturday announced the rationalisation of the TDS (Tax Deduction at Source) regime to ease the compliance burden. She proposed a major relief for the middle class in India with the exemption of TCS (tax collected at source) for remittances for education purposes in cases where education loan is taken from specified financial institutions. Meanwhile, for senior citizens, the limit for tax deduction on interest income would be doubled to Rs 1 lakh. Meanwhile, the limit for TDS on rent is proposed to be increased to Rs 6 lakh from the ₹2.40 lakh limit previously. Also read | Union Budget 2025: 36 life saving drugs, medicines fully exempted from custom duty The government will also increase the limit of TCS on remittances under RBI's liberalised remittance scheme from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh. Besides, the budget extends the period of incorporation by five years for startups to avail of tax benefits. Reforms are not destinations but means to achieve good governance for the people and economy, said the Indian finance minister, adding that the new I-T bill will be half of the current volume, clear and direct in wording. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Union Budget 2025-26: Key TDS changes announced this year

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday (Feb 1) proposed updating the definition of undisclosed income to include "virtual digital assets", as part of the government's efforts to increase regulation of cryptocurrencies.
This move comes amid several reports of unregulated cryptocurrency being used to hide illegal transactions.
"It is proposed to add the term 'virtual digital asset' to the said definition of undisclosed income of the block period," the Budget document said.
"The time limit for completion of a block assessment is proposed to be made as twelve months from the end of the quarter in which the last of the authorisations for search or requisition has been executed," it added.
India has extended anti-money laundering laws to cryptocurrency trading, storage, and financial services, building on regulations introduced two years ago.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-announces-ai-centre-for-education-allocates-576-mn-8680942">India Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman announces AI centre for education, allocates $ 57.6mn</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">AI centre for education</h2>
Sitharaman also announced that a new Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education will be set up with an outlay of $ 57,671,997 (Rs 500 crore).
She recalled that three AI centres for agriculture, health, and sustainable cities were announced in 2023 and said this new centre will further strengthen AI-driven advancements in education.
&ldquo;I had announced three Centres of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for agriculture, health, and sustainable cities in 2023. Now a Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education will be set up with a total outlay of Rs 500 crore,&rdquo; Sitharaman said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/common-citizen-going-to-drive-mission-of-viksit-bharat-pm-modi-applauds-union-budget-2025-8680898">'Force multiplier&rsquo; for India&rsquo;s growth: PM Modi applauds Union Budget 2025</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">National centres of excellence for skilling</h2>
The Union Budget also proposed setting up five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling. These centres will be developed with global partnerships to support Make for India and Make for the World manufacturing. The initiative will focus on curriculum design, training of trainers, a skill certification framework, and regular assessments to ensure industry-relevant expertise for youth.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News Business & Economy: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposes redefining undisclosed income to include virtual digital assets, aiming to tighten cryptocurrency regulations in India.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday (Feb 1) proposed updating the definition of undisclosed income to include "virtual digital assets", as part of the government's efforts to increase regulation of cryptocurrencies. This move comes amid several reports of unregulated cryptocurrency being used to hide illegal transactions. "It is proposed to add the term 'virtual digital asset' to the said definition of undisclosed income of the block period," the Budget document said. "The time limit for completion of a block assessment is proposed to be made as twelve months from the end of the quarter in which the last of the authorisations for search or requisition has been executed," it added. India has extended anti-money laundering laws to cryptocurrency trading, storage, and financial services, building on regulations introduced two years ago. Also read | India Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman announces AI centre for education, allocates $ 57.6mn AI centre for education Sitharaman also announced that a new Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education will be set up with an outlay of $ 57,671,997 (Rs 500 crore). She recalled that three AI centres for agriculture, health, and sustainable cities were announced in 2023 and said this new centre will further strengthen AI-driven advancements in education. “I had announced three Centres of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for agriculture, health, and sustainable cities in 2023. Now a Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education will be set up with a total outlay of Rs 500 crore,” Sitharaman said. Also read | 'Force multiplier’ for India’s growth: PM Modi applauds Union Budget 2025 National centres of excellence for skilling The Union Budget also proposed setting up five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling. These centres will be developed with global partnerships to support Make for India and Make for the World manufacturing. The initiative will focus on curriculum design, training of trainers, a skill certification framework, and regular assessments to ensure industry-relevant expertise for youth. (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman proposes to include crypto assets in assessing undisclosed income

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her record eighth consecutive Budget speech on Saturday (Feb 1), announced 10,000 additional seats in medical colleges as well as daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals.
She highlighted that the country has witnessed remarkable growth in medical education over the last decade.
"10,000 additional seats to be added in medical colleges next year and 75,000 seats to be added in the next five years," she said.
&ldquo;All district hospitals to have daycare cancer centres. About 200 daycare cancer centres will be established in 2025-26," the FM said.
Further, "broadband connectivity to primary health centres will help in expanding telemedicine consultation for rural patients at village level", she added.
Over the last decade, the number of medical colleges has doubled from 387 in 2013-14 to 780 in 2024-25, a 102 per cent increase.&nbsp;
During the same period, there was also a substantial rise in MBBS seats, which have increased by 130 per cent from 51,348 to 1,18,137.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-exempts-basic-custom-duty-on-lifesaving-drugs-and-medicines-8680995">Also read: Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman exempts basic custom duty on lifesaving drugs and medicines</a>
<h2>Govt exempts basic custom duty on lifesaving drugs</h2>
Sitharaman announced that 36 lifesaving drugs and medicines, particularly for patients suffering from cancer, chronic, or other severe diseases, will be fully exempted from basic customs duty.
She further announced that 37 more medicines and 13 new patient assistance programmes will be fully exempted from Basic Customs Duty, where they are supplied free of cost to patients.
Additionally, six more lifesaving medicines will be added to the concessional duty list, attracting a reduced customs duty of 5 per cent.&nbsp;
"Specified drugs and medicines under Patient Assistance Programmes run by pharmaceutical companies are fully exempt from BCD, provided the medicines are supplied free of cost to patients," Sitharaman said.
"I also propose to add six lifesaving medicines to the list attracting concessional customs duty of 5 per cent. Full exemption and concessional duty will also respectively apply on the bulk drugs for manufacture of the above," she added.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India news | Business & Economy: Over the last decade, the number of medical colleges has doubled from 387 in 2013-14 to 780 in 2024-25, marking a 102 per cent increase. During the same period, there was also a substantial rise in MBBS seats.

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her record eighth consecutive Budget speech on Saturday (Feb 1), announced 10,000 additional seats in medical colleges as well as daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals. She highlighted that the country has witnessed remarkable growth in medical education over the last decade. "10,000 additional seats to be added in medical colleges next year and 75,000 seats to be added in the next five years," she said. “All district hospitals to have daycare cancer centres. About 200 daycare cancer centres will be established in 2025-26," the FM said. Further, "broadband connectivity to primary health centres will help in expanding telemedicine consultation for rural patients at village level", she added. Over the last decade, the number of medical colleges has doubled from 387 in 2013-14 to 780 in 2024-25, a 102 per cent increase. During the same period, there was also a substantial rise in MBBS seats, which have increased by 130 per cent from 51,348 to 1,18,137. Also read: Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman exempts basic custom duty on lifesaving drugs and medicines Govt exempts basic custom duty on lifesaving drugs Sitharaman announced that 36 lifesaving drugs and medicines, particularly for patients suffering from cancer, chronic, or other severe diseases, will be fully exempted from basic customs duty. She further announced that 37 more medicines and 13 new patient assistance programmes will be fully exempted from Basic Customs Duty, where they are supplied free of cost to patients. Additionally, six more lifesaving medicines will be added to the concessional duty list, attracting a reduced customs duty of 5 per cent. "Specified drugs and medicines under Patient Assistance Programmes run by pharmaceutical companies are fully exempt from BCD, provided the medicines are supplied free of cost to patients," Sitharaman said. "I also propose to add six lifesaving medicines to the list attracting concessional customs duty of 5 per cent. Full exemption and concessional duty will also respectively apply on the bulk drugs for manufacture of the above," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Union Budget 2025: Govt to set up daycare cancer centres in all district hospitals

Canada and Mexico are on edge as U.S. President Donald Trump is set to slap a 25% tariff on imports from both countries, the deadline being Saturday. Trump says he wants stronger action to stop illegal immigration and the flow of fentanyl into the U.S. Watch in for more details!

Canada, Mexico, China brace for Trump's tariffs

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today (Saturday, Feb 1) presented the Union Budget for 2025-26, a day after unveiling the Economic Survey. Watch in for more details!

Union Budget 2025: Boost for small business, mega fund for cities | WION detailed coverage

Union Budget 2025: 36 life-saving medicines fully exempted from custom duty | WION detailed coverage

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 1) hailed the Union Budget 2025 as a crucial milestone in India's development journey, emphasising its focus on fulfilling the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians.
PM Modi envisions the common citizen driving the mission of Viksit Bharat, a testament to the government's commitment to inclusive growth and development.
"Today is an important milestone in India's development journey. This is the budget of aspirations of 140 crore Indians. This is a budget that fulfils the dreams of every Indian. We have opened many sectors for the youth. The common citizen is going to drive the mission of Viksit Bharat," he said.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-exempts-basic-custom-duty-on-lifesaving-drugs-and-medicines-8680995">Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman exempts basic custom duty on lifesaving drugs and medicines</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Prime Minister congratulates FM Sitharaman</h2>
The Prime Minister congratulated Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her entire team for the &ldquo;Janata Janardan's, People's budget,&rdquo; emphasising that this will boost savings, investment, consumption, and growth rapidly.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This budget is a force multiplier. This budget will increase savings, investment, consumption and growth rapidly. I congratulate Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her entire team for this Janata Janardan's, People's budget,&rdquo; he said.
<h2 dir="ltr">PM Modi praises reforms in nuclear energy sector</h2>
Calling the reforms in the nuclear energy sector &ldquo;historic&rdquo;, PM Modi said that the move will ensure a big contribution of Civil Nuclear Energy in the development of the country.
&ldquo;Usually the focus of the budget is on how the government treasury will be filled, but this budget is exactly the opposite of that. How will this budget fill the pockets of the citizens of the country, how will the savings of the citizens of the country increase, and how will the citizens of the country become development partners? This budget lays a very strong foundation for this,&rdquo; Modi said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-announces-ai-centre-for-education-allocates-576-mn-8680942">India Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman announces AI centre for education, allocates $ 57.6mn</a>
&ldquo;In terms of reforms, many important steps have been taken in this budget. Encouraging the private sector in Nuclear Energy is historic. It will ensure a big contribution of Civil&nbsp; Nuclear Energy in the development of the country,&rdquo; the Prime Minister added.
<h2 dir="ltr">Budget 2025-26 prioritises all sectors of employment</h2>
PM Modi said that the budget 2025-26 has given priority to all the sectors of employment in every way, which would bring a big change in the coming times.
&ldquo;In the budget, priority has been given to all the sectors of employment in every way. I would like to discuss those reforms which are going to bring a big change in the coming times. Due to giving an infrastructure status, the construction of big ships in India will be encouraged, and the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan will get momentum. We all know that ship building is a sector that gives maximum employment. Similarly, there is a lot of potential for tourism in the country. Hotels will be built at 50 important tourist destinations, for the first time, by bringing hotels under the ambit of infrastructure, tourism will get a big boost. This will give energy to the hospitality sector, which is a very big sector of employment,&rdquo; the Prime Minister said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-2025-fm-sitharaman-announces-revamped-central-kyc-registry-to-be-rolled-out-8680702">Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman announces revamped central KYC registry to be rolled out</a>
Applauding the announcement made for the farmers in the budget, PM Modi said that the move will become the basis of a new revolution in the agriculture sector and the entire rural economy.
&ldquo;In this budget 'Gyan Bharat Mission' has been started for the preservation of one crore manuscripts. A National Digital Repository inspired by the Indian knowledge tradition will be created, that is, technology will be used to its fullest extent. The announcement made for farmers in the budget will become the basis of a new revolution in the agriculture sector and the entire rural economy...The limit of 'Kisan Credit Card' will be increased to Rs 5 lakh, which will help them more,&rdquo; he said.
<h2 dir="ltr">PM hails announcement of tax relief for middle-class&nbsp;</h2>
Highlighting the tax reforms in the Union Budget, the Prime Minister said that the middle class will greatly benefit from the reduced taxes. "In this budget, income up to Rs 12 lakh per annum has been made tax-free. For all income groups, taxes have been reduced. It will hugely benefit our middle class. It will be an opportunity for the people who have recently joined the workforce.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-union-budget-2025-govt-to-support-domestic-electronic-equipment-industry-fm-sitharaman-8680523">India Union Budget 2025: &lsquo;Govt to support domestic electronic equipment industry&rsquo;, FM Sitharaman</a>
Additionally, he announced a new scheme providing loans up to Rs 2 crore without guarantees for SC, ST, and women entrepreneurs. &ldquo;A scheme of providing loans up to Rs 2 crore ($230687) without guarantee has also been introduced for SC, ST and women of the country who want to become new entrepreneurs. In this budget, a big announcement has been made for Gig Workers keeping in mind the New Age Economy. For the first time, Gig Workers will be registered on the e-Shram portal, and then they will get the benefit of health services,&rdquo; PM Modi added.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: Prime Minister Modi praises the Union Budget 2025 as pivotal for India's development journey and growth, highlighting its role in meeting the dreams of 1.4 billion citizens.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 1) hailed the Union Budget 2025 as a crucial milestone in India's development journey, emphasising its focus on fulfilling the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. PM Modi envisions the common citizen driving the mission of Viksit Bharat, a testament to the government's commitment to inclusive growth and development. "Today is an important milestone in India's development journey. This is the budget of aspirations of 140 crore Indians. This is a budget that fulfils the dreams of every Indian. We have opened many sectors for the youth. The common citizen is going to drive the mission of Viksit Bharat," he said. Also read | Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman exempts basic custom duty on lifesaving drugs and medicines Prime Minister congratulates FM Sitharaman The Prime Minister congratulated Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her entire team for the “Janata Janardan's, People's budget,” emphasising that this will boost savings, investment, consumption, and growth rapidly. “This budget is a force multiplier. This budget will increase savings, investment, consumption and growth rapidly. I congratulate Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her entire team for this Janata Janardan's, People's budget,” he said. PM Modi praises reforms in nuclear energy sector Calling the reforms in the nuclear energy sector “historic”, PM Modi said that the move will ensure a big contribution of Civil Nuclear Energy in the development of the country. “Usually the focus of the budget is on how the government treasury will be filled, but this budget is exactly the opposite of that. How will this budget fill the pockets of the citizens of the country, how will the savings of the citizens of the country increase, and how will the citizens of the country become development partners? This budget lays a very strong foundation for this,” Modi said. Also read | India Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman announces AI centre for education, allocates $ 57.6mn “In terms of reforms, many important steps have been taken in this budget. Encouraging the private sector in Nuclear Energy is historic. It will ensure a big contribution of Civil Nuclear Energy in the development of the country,” the Prime Minister added. Budget 2025-26 prioritises all sectors of employment PM Modi said that the budget 2025-26 has given priority to all the sectors of employment in every way, which would bring a big change in the coming times. “In the budget, priority has been given to all the sectors of employment in every way. I would like to discuss those reforms which are going to bring a big change in the coming times. Due to giving an infrastructure status, the construction of big ships in India will be encouraged, and the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan will get momentum. We all know that ship building is a sector that gives maximum employment. Similarly, there is a lot of potential for tourism in the country. Hotels will be built at 50 important tourist destinations, for the first time, by bringing hotels under the ambit of infrastructure, tourism will get a big boost. This will give energy to the hospitality sector, which is a very big sector of employment,” the Prime Minister said. Also read | Union Budget 2025: FM Sitharaman announces revamped central KYC registry to be rolled out Applauding the announcement made for the farmers in the budget, PM Modi said that the move will become the basis of a new revolution in the agriculture sector and the entire rural economy. “In this budget 'Gyan Bharat Mission' has been started for the preservation of one crore manuscripts. A National Digital Repository inspired by the Indian knowledge tradition will be created, that is, technology will be used to its fullest extent. The announcement made for farmers in the budget will become the basis of a new revolution in the agriculture sector and the entire rural economy...The limit of 'Kisan Credit Card' will be increased to Rs 5 lakh, which will help them more,” he said. PM hails announcement of tax relief for middle-class Highlighting the tax reforms in the Union Budget, the Prime Minister said that the middle class will greatly benefit from the reduced taxes. "In this budget, income up to Rs 12 lakh per annum has been made tax-free. For all income groups, taxes have been reduced. It will hugely benefit our middle class. It will be an opportunity for the people who have recently joined the workforce.” Also read | India Union Budget 2025: ‘Govt to support domestic electronic equipment industry’, FM Sitharaman Additionally, he announced a new scheme providing loans up to Rs 2 crore without guarantees for SC, ST, and women entrepreneurs. “A scheme of providing loans up to Rs 2 crore ($230687) without guarantee has also been introduced for SC, ST and women of the country who want to become new entrepreneurs. In this budget, a big announcement has been made for Gig Workers keeping in mind the New Age Economy. For the first time, Gig Workers will be registered on the e-Shram portal, and then they will get the benefit of health services,” PM Modi added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Force multiplier’ for India’s growth: PM Modi applauds Union Budget 2025

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