Times of India

President Trump's actions, from Cabinet meetings to policy decisions, are characterized by a pattern of deflection and strategic maneuvering. He faces criticism for his handling of protests, immigration crackdowns, and attempts to influence the Federal Reserve, while his supporters praise his leadership and vision.

Last year, FM Sitharaman announced major changes in the new income tax regime, and while tax experts believe that there is little fiscal room in Budget 2026 for any big tax income tweaks, there is also a hope that some changes may be brought about to further boost consumption.

As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares the Union Budget 2026-27, tax data reveals a significant shift. Direct tax collections have surged, surpassing indirect taxes as the government's primary revenue source. This trend highlights a growing reliance on income and profit-based taxation, impacting fiscal strategy and taxpayer compliance.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav became the fastest player to reach 3000 T20I runs in terms of balls faced, achieving the milestone in 1822 deliveries and surpassing Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. He scored 63 off 30 balls in the fifth T20I against New Zealand, while Ishan Kishan added an unbeaten 86, helping India post 189/3 in Thiruvananthapuram with an aggressive batting display.

Cleveland Browns veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson was baptized in Israel, an experience he described as life changing. Meanwhile, new head coach Todd Monken expressed his past desire to draft Shedeur Sanders, highlighting the quarterback’s significance to the team’s plans. Cybercitizens react to Watson’s baptism and Sanders’ special meet with Monken, with one saying, they can’t wait to see the coach meet Myles Garrett.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has vehemently dismissed claims linking Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Jeffrey Epstein's leaked documents. The ministry labelled the references as "trashy ruminations" from a convicted criminal, urging their immediate rejection. These statements follow the US Department of Justice's release of extensive materials related to the late financier.

India is set to lead global economic growth by 2026, surpassing the US, according to IMF data. Elon Musk highlighted this seismic shift, noting India and China will drive over 43% of worldwide expansion. This surge, fueled by domestic strength and manufacturing, signals a changing global economic landscape beyond traditional Western markets.

​Budgets set the direction for government spending, taxation, and growth priorities, but actual execution takes time. Sectors like infrastructure, railways, defence, and capital goods tend to react positively to higher capex announcements, while banks and consumption stocks respond to tax relief or income-support measures.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget 2026 prioritizes continuity and fiscal discipline over populist measures. Expect a focus on debt-to-GDP reduction and strategic capital expenditure, particularly in defense and manufacturing. The budget signals a sober fiscal script, aiming for reassurance rather than grand pronouncements, with bond markets keenly watching for sustained credibility.

Budget 2026 should prioritize reforms in withholding taxes, dispute resolution, and customs procedures to enhance ease of doing business. Simplifying TDS, addressing tax dispute pendency, and accelerating customs automation are crucial for reducing complexity, building trust, and boosting investments.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav entertained fans before the fifth T20I against New Zealand by playfully pretending to forget Sanju Samson’s name at the toss in Thiruvananthapuram. He later confirmed Samson’s inclusion, drawing cheers from the crowd. India chose to bat first due to dew concerns. With the series already in India's pocket, the match served as preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

The Economic Survey 2025–26 reads like a map of where Indian education quietly loses people—after Class 8, at the school-to-work handover, and in the steady outward rush of students seeking predictability. On Budget eve, the question isn’t another scheme. It’s whether spending will strengthen the weak joints—so families don’t have to keep paying privately for certainty.

Babar Azam's struggles continued in the T20I series against Australia, as he was dismissed for just 2 runs by Adam Zampa in the second match. This low score has sparked debate on social media, with some questioning his place in Pakistan's T20 squad.

Union minister Piyush Goyal dismissed actor Vijay's potential impact on Tamil Nadu elections, stating "many film stars come and go" and fan following doesn't guarantee votes. He expressed confidence in the AIADMK-led NDA alliance, citing strong anti-incumbency against the DMK government and visible rifts within their alliance.

A powerful explosion ripped through an eight-storey building in Iran's Bandar Abbas port city, causing significant damage to its structure, vehicles, and shops. While the cause remains under investigation, authorities have dismissed claims of a targeted attack. The incident occurs amidst escalating regional tensions and ongoing domestic unrest.

India's Union Budget 2026-27 will be presented on a Sunday for the first time in history, a significant procedural reform. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also achieves a record ninth consecutive budget presentation, marking a new milestone in the nation's financial reporting tradition.