Times of India

Russia has become a major concern for Indian students abroad, with over half of all global complaints regarding exploitation and racial discrimination originating from the country. Data reveals a sharp surge in such incidents, raising serious safety worries for students, particularly those pursuing medical education. Many fear reporting issues due to potential expulsion and visa complications.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman refuted DMK MP P Wilson's claim that Tamil Nadu was ignored in the Union Budget. She highlighted several initiatives for the state, calling his allegations baseless. Wilson had argued that Tamil Nadu, a high-performing state, was being discriminated against in tax devolution and project allocation.

P. Chidambaram criticized the Union Budget 2026-27 in the Rajya Sabha, labeling it 'forgettable' for cutting capital expenditure. He highlighted stagnant capital investment, a collapse in net FDI, and withdrawing foreign portfolio investors, questioning the government's reform momentum. Chidambaram noted a decline in nominal growth and a lack of private investment despite companies holding significant cash.

India's strategic petroleum reserves can currently cover 74 days of demand during global crises, according to Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. While the International Energy Agency recommends 90 days, Puri expressed confidence in the current level, noting potential for future increases. This reserve is crucial for economic stability and energy security as India experiences rapid growth.

The Supreme Court has ordered the West Bengal police chief to personally respond to serious allegations from the Election Commission. The EC claims ruling party TMC members are deliberately obstructing the revision of electoral rolls. The court emphasized the importance of constitutional laws and the EC's authority during elections.

A recent survey by VVGNLI reveals that a majority of workers anticipate improved working conditions, including better rest periods and income security, with the implementation of four new labor codes. Employers also foresee enhanced ease of doing business. The codes are expected to bolster protection for women workers and improve social security access and portability for various worker categories.

India has announced a $175 million economic package for Seychelles, including a $125 million line of credit and a $50 million grant, to support projects in housing, health, and defence. The two nations also signed seven pacts, strengthening maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean. This collaboration aims to enhance regional stability and counter transnational maritime challenges.

ISRO is forming a Failure Analysis Committee to probe the PSLV-C62 mishap. An internal data analysis committee is meticulously reviewing flight data, telemetry, and logs to pinpoint the cause. This investigation follows a previous PSLV failure, prompting a comprehensive review of the 33-year-old rocket. Future PSLV and SSLV launches are on hold pending these findings.

The Indian Army is renaming 246 roads, buildings, and facilities across its establishments to honor Indian war heroes and shed colonial-era symbols. This extensive exercise aims to reinforce a national identity rooted in India's military heritage, recognizing gallantry awardees and distinguished leaders. Notable renamings include Arun Khetrapal Marg and Abdul Hamid Vihar, reflecting a commitment to celebrating indigenous valor.

Many expected Cardi B to stay until the end of the game yesterday, the popular Grammy winner left midway, as fans were quick to notice that the two removed each other from their respective social media accounts as the New England Patriots witnessed a brutal loss against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX. While this has sparked chaos, a screenshot of an alleged heated exchange between the two has sparked panic.

DMK MP Tiruchi Siva has filed a breach of privilege notice against Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. Siva alleges Goyal shared details of an interim India-US trade deal during a press conference while Parliament was in session. The Rajya Sabha Chairman stated he would review the matter, noting Goyal had already made a statement in the House.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla defended his decision to advise Prime Minister Narendra Modi against speaking on February 4, citing grave disorder and threats from opposition MPs. He refuted claims of no danger, detailing how MPs used unparliamentary language, tore papers, and aggressively approached the PM's seat, creating an unsafe environment.

Congress women MPs accused Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla of making "false, baseless and defamatory allegations" against them under government pressure. They stated Prime Minister Modi's absence from the House was an "act of fear," not a threat from them. The MPs urged the Speaker to act impartially, highlighting alleged pressure from the ruling party.

Parliamentary proceedings remained stalled for the sixth day as the opposition, led by Rahul Gandhi, clashed with the government over allowing specific issues to be raised. Opposition leaders accused the government of avoiding Budget discussions due to concerns about the Indo-US trade deal's impact on farmers. A resolution is anticipated for Tuesday.

NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar was admitted to a private hospital in Pune with chest congestion. Doctors stated his condition is stable, attributing his fatigue to recent travel and engagements. He is expected to undergo a five-day course of antibiotics.

Opposition parties are seriously considering a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, with over 100 MPs reportedly signing a notice. This move follows grievances over the handling of parliamentary proceedings, including the suspension of members and the refusal to allow Rahul Gandhi to speak. A final decision on the timing of the resolution is expected after further discussions.

Oklahoma City, leading the league, faces the Lakers in a crucial Western Conference clash on February 9, 2026. Both teams are hampered by key absences, with the Thunder missing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Lakers without Luka Doncic. This absence will heavily influence rotations and offensive strategies, making depth and defense paramount for both sides.

The Supreme Court cautioned High Court judges against acting as domain experts, emphasizing their role as neutral umpires in dispute resolution. The bench stressed that judicial review should not involve re-evaluating examination questions, urging High Courts to refer such matters to expert committees. This directive came while addressing a petition challenging a Jharkhand High Court decision on recruitment test questions.

Tata Steel expects domestic steel prices to rise this quarter, while its CFO highlights margin protection amidst a challenging year. The EU's carbon border tax is seen as a positive for Tata Steel's European operations, leveling the playing field for carbon costs.