June 22, 2026

February 2026

STT hike after Budget 2026: What is Securities Transaction Tax & what does it mean for F&O traders and investors

STT hike after Budget 2026: What is Securities Transaction Tax & what does it mean for F&O traders and investors

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on derivatives will rise from April 1, 2026, after the Finance minister Sithraman in her 9th budget speech proposed higher rates on futures and options trading as part of Budget 2026 changes to the Finance (No. 2) Act, 2004.Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the move while presenting the Budget, saying: “I…

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Kim Seon Ho under fire after tax evasion allegations; situation compared to Cha Eunwoo

Kim Seon Ho under fire after tax evasion allegations; situation compared to Cha Eunwoo

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Kim Seon Ho, the popular actor, is under scrutiny for allegedly evading taxes through a one-person company believed to have been established in 2024 with his family’s participation. This incident mirrors the recent controversy surrounding ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo regarding similar tax evasion allegations. ASTRO member Cha Eunwoo has been at the forefront of headlines due…

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Budget 2026 gives a boost to mental healthcare: North India to get its own NIMHANS

Budget 2026 gives a boost to mental healthcare: North India to get its own NIMHANS

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the plans to set up a new unit for the National Institute for Mental Health and Neuro Sciences in North India. Acknowledging the lack of mental health institutions in the region, she also announced the national mental health institutes in Jharkhand’s Ranchi and Assam’s Tezpur shall also…

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‘Long lost cave in New Zealand’ reveals million-year-old wildlife, extinct birds, and a Kākāpō ancestor | World News

‘Long lost cave in New Zealand’ reveals million-year-old wildlife, extinct birds, and a Kākāpō ancestor | World News

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Source: Canterbury Museum For a long time, New Zealand’s ancient past felt incomplete. Bits and pieces here and there. A few fossils. Large gaps. Now, a cave near Waitomo on the North Island has quietly changed that picture. Inside it, scientists have uncovered the remains of wildlife that lived around one million years ago. It…

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Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman NEW DELHI: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday delivered a 1 hour 25 minute presentation of the Union Budget 2026-27, marking her record ninth consecutive budget. She made several major announcements covering income tax, defence, railways, MSMEs, healthcare, and more.The budget was hailed as “historic” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who described it as a “high flight toward Viksit Bharat” by 2047, shortly after FM Sitharaman’s presentation in the Lok Sabha.Here are the 10 big announcements from Union Budget 2026Defence – The Union Budget 2026 has allocated Rs 7.85 lakh crore to the Defence Ministry, up from Rs 6.81 lakh crore last year. Out of this, Rs 2.19 lakh crore will go toward modernising the armed forces, including Rs 63,733 crore for aircraft and engines and Rs 25,023 crore for the Navy. The remaining Rs 5.54 lakh crore will cover running expenses, including Rs 1.71 lakh crore for pensions.Railways – The FM Sitharaman proposed seven high-speed rail corridors connecting major cities—Mumbai-Pune, Pune-Hyderabad, Hyderabad-Bengaluru, Hyderabad-Chennai, Chennai-Bengaluru, Delhi-Varanasi, and Varanasi-Siliguri—to promote an environmentally sustainable passenger system. The Railways has been allocated a strong capital expenditure of Rs 2,93,030 crore to boost infrastructure-driven growth and fast-track the vision of Viksit Bharat. She also announced a new dedicated freight corridor linking Dankuni in West Bengal to Surat in Gujarat to ensure efficient and eco-friendly movement of goods across the country.Income Tax – Sitharaman announced that the Income Tax Act, 2025 will come into effect from April 1, replacing the six-decade-old tax law. The new law simplifies rules and forms, making compliance easier for taxpayers, and is revenue neutral with no change in tax rates. It cuts sections by about 50%, removes ambiguities, replaces the assessment year with a single “tax year,” and allows TDS refunds even if ITRs are filed late without penalties.Rare-earth – The Budget proposed supporting mineral-rich states like Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu in setting up dedicated rare earth corridors. This builds on the ‘Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets’ launched in November 2025, which has a financial outlay of Rs 7,280 crore. The scheme aims to create 6,000 metric tonnes per year of integrated REPM manufacturing capacity in India, covering the complete production chain from rare-earth oxides to finished magnets.Health – The Union health ministry has been allocated Rs 1,06,530.42 crore in Budget 2026-27, a 10% increase from last year, according to news agency PTI. FM Sitharaman announced a scheme to set up five regional medical hubs with private-sector support to boost medical tourism. Existing allied healthcare institutions will be upgraded, and new ones established, training 1 lakh professionals across 10 disciplines over the next five years. A Rs 10,000 crore investment proposed over the next five years to make India a biopharma manufacturing hub, establish 1,000 clinical trial sites, and strengthen the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation.Boost to MSMEs – The minister proposed a three-pronged strategy to boost MSMEs, including a dedicated Rs 10,000 crore fund to help them grow as ‘Champions’. In her Budget speech, she said the Modi government’s reforms aim to create jobs, increase productivity, and accelerate growth. She outlined “three kartavyas”: accelerate and sustain economic growth, fulfil aspirations and build capacity, and Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas. Under the first, she highlighted six interventions, including support for Champion MSMEs.Education – It also included boost to education with a National Institute of Design in eastern India, five university townships near industrial corridors, and a girls’ hostel in every district for STEM students. Four telescope facilities for astrophysics research will be set up, and a high-powered ‘Education to Employment and Enterprise Committee’ will align skills with jobs and emerging technologies like AI. Under ‘Orange Economy’, FM also proposed content creator labs in schools and colleges to create ‘future-ready jobs’.Banking – A “High Level Committee on Banking for Viksit Bharat” was proposed to review the sector and align it with India’s next phase of growth. She said the committee will focus on financial stability, inclusion, and consumer protection. Highlighting the strength of India’s banking sector, she noted strong balance sheets, record profitability, improved asset quality, and coverage of over 98 per cent of villages.Agriculture – The Budget also outlined major reform for the agriculture sector, the FM announced announced the launch of ‘Bharat Vistar’ a multilingual AI tool set to integrate AgriStack portals and ICAR’s agricultural practices with advanced AI systems, transforming how farmers access resources and make decisions.Khelo India – Under Budget 2026-27, the finance minister unveiled the Khelo India Mission to revamp the sports sector over the next decade, focusing on talent identification, coach training, sports science, and modern infrastructure development.About the AuthorTOI Business DeskThe TOI Business Desk is a vigilant and dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant business news from around the world to readers of The Times of India. The primary focus of the TOI Business Desk is to keep a watchful eye on the global business landscape, covering a wide spectrum of industries, markets, economic trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact businesses and economies. With a mission to provide valuable insights and updates, the desk ensures that TOI readers are well-informed about the ever-changing and dynamic world of commerce and can navigate the complexities of the business world.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi Calls Budget 2026 Historic As Reforms Empower Youth Women And India’s Growth Push’Nothing For Bengal’: Mamata Banerjee Attacks ‘Humpty Dumpty’ Union Budget 2026 As Markets TumbleIn First Budget Since Sindoor, FM Sends Signal On Security As Defence Outlay Jumps To ₹7.85L CroreTax Holidays, Safe Harbour, Incentives: Budget 2026 Pushes Investment In India, Boosts IT SectorBudget 2026 Brings New Income Tax Act From April With No Slab Change But Major Compliance ResetSubsidies, Jobs, AI Tool: FM Sitharaman Unveils Big Budget Boost For Agri Sector To Help FarmersMental Health Takes Priority In Budget 2026, FM Sitharaman Announces NIMHANS 2 For North IndiaBudget 2026: Individual Investment Limit For Overseas Residents Doubled To 10%, Sitharaman AnnouncesBudget 2026 Signals Infra First Strategy With Public Capital Expenditure Raised To ₹12.2 Lakh CroreBudget 2026 Targets Tariff Risks As FM Nirmala Sitharaman Rolls Out ₹10,000 Crore Lifeline For MSMEs123PhotostoriesUnion Budget 2026: 6 nuts that got attention of the government and whyNo one Killed Jessica’, ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’, ‘Veer-Zaara’: 5 fearless roles that prove Rani Mukerji is Bollywood’s ultimate Mardani!Union Budget 2026: From coconut to chocolate, things which have got attention in this year’s budget and whyTaylor Swift’s 7 most expensive possessionsCJ Roy death case: What remains unclear as the probe continues7 most memorable Grammy moments to rewind before the 2026 awardsBudget-friendly destinations in 2026: 8 Indian places that should be on every traveller’s wish list this yearBudget 2026: Nirmala Sitharaman wears a purple saree rooted in the 1,400-year-old weaving legacy of the Pallava dynastyUnion Budget 2026: 7 high-speed rail corridors announced, including Mumbai-Pune, Hyderabad-Bengaluru; check full listNavi Mumbai airport goes 24/7: Inside the quiet shift to round-the-clock ops123Hot PicksBudget highlights 2026Budget Income Tax SlabUnion Budget 2026February 2026 bank changesIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingNirmala Sitharaman SareeMany Pacquiao vs Conor Height DifferenceBengaluru Worker Dead NewsMLB Trade RumorsDwyane Wade WifeSnowboarder Ryan Wedding CaseUnion Budget Speech LiveStock Market BudgetUnion Budget SpeechGold Silver Rate Today

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman NEW DELHI: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday delivered a 1 hour 25 minute presentation of the Union Budget 2026-27, marking her record ninth consecutive budget. She made several major announcements covering income tax, defence, railways, MSMEs, healthcare, and more.The budget was hailed as “historic” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who described it as a “high flight toward Viksit Bharat” by 2047, shortly after FM Sitharaman’s presentation in the Lok Sabha.Here are the 10 big announcements from Union Budget 2026Defence – The Union Budget 2026 has allocated Rs 7.85 lakh crore to the Defence Ministry, up from Rs 6.81 lakh crore last year. Out of this, Rs 2.19 lakh crore will go toward modernising the armed forces, including Rs 63,733 crore for aircraft and engines and Rs 25,023 crore for the Navy. The remaining Rs 5.54 lakh crore will cover running expenses, including Rs 1.71 lakh crore for pensions.Railways – The FM Sitharaman proposed seven high-speed rail corridors connecting major cities—Mumbai-Pune, Pune-Hyderabad, Hyderabad-Bengaluru, Hyderabad-Chennai, Chennai-Bengaluru, Delhi-Varanasi, and Varanasi-Siliguri—to promote an environmentally sustainable passenger system. The Railways has been allocated a strong capital expenditure of Rs 2,93,030 crore to boost infrastructure-driven growth and fast-track the vision of Viksit Bharat. She also announced a new dedicated freight corridor linking Dankuni in West Bengal to Surat in Gujarat to ensure efficient and eco-friendly movement of goods across the country.Income Tax – Sitharaman announced that the Income Tax Act, 2025 will come into effect from April 1, replacing the six-decade-old tax law. The new law simplifies rules and forms, making compliance easier for taxpayers, and is revenue neutral with no change in tax rates. It cuts sections by about 50%, removes ambiguities, replaces the assessment year with a single “tax year,” and allows TDS refunds even if ITRs are filed late without penalties.Rare-earth – The Budget proposed supporting mineral-rich states like Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu in setting up dedicated rare earth corridors. This builds on the ‘Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets’ launched in November 2025, which has a financial outlay of Rs 7,280 crore. The scheme aims to create 6,000 metric tonnes per year of integrated REPM manufacturing capacity in India, covering the complete production chain from rare-earth oxides to finished magnets.Health – The Union health ministry has been allocated Rs 1,06,530.42 crore in Budget 2026-27, a 10% increase from last year, according to news agency PTI. FM Sitharaman announced a scheme to set up five regional medical hubs with private-sector support to boost medical tourism. Existing allied healthcare institutions will be upgraded, and new ones established, training 1 lakh professionals across 10 disciplines over the next five years. A Rs 10,000 crore investment proposed over the next five years to make India a biopharma manufacturing hub, establish 1,000 clinical trial sites, and strengthen the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation.Boost to MSMEs – The minister proposed a three-pronged strategy to boost MSMEs, including a dedicated Rs 10,000 crore fund to help them grow as ‘Champions’. In her Budget speech, she said the Modi government’s reforms aim to create jobs, increase productivity, and accelerate growth. She outlined “three kartavyas”: accelerate and sustain economic growth, fulfil aspirations and build capacity, and Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas. Under the first, she highlighted six interventions, including support for Champion MSMEs.Education – It also included boost to education with a National Institute of Design in eastern India, five university townships near industrial corridors, and a girls’ hostel in every district for STEM students. Four telescope facilities for astrophysics research will be set up, and a high-powered ‘Education to Employment and Enterprise Committee’ will align skills with jobs and emerging technologies like AI. Under ‘Orange Economy’, FM also proposed content creator labs in schools and colleges to create ‘future-ready jobs’.Banking – A “High Level Committee on Banking for Viksit Bharat” was proposed to review the sector and align it with India’s next phase of growth. She said the committee will focus on financial stability, inclusion, and consumer protection. Highlighting the strength of India’s banking sector, she noted strong balance sheets, record profitability, improved asset quality, and coverage of over 98 per cent of villages.Agriculture – The Budget also outlined major reform for the agriculture sector, the FM announced announced the launch of ‘Bharat Vistar’ a multilingual AI tool set to integrate AgriStack portals and ICAR’s agricultural practices with advanced AI systems, transforming how farmers access resources and make decisions.Khelo India – Under Budget 2026-27, the finance minister unveiled the Khelo India Mission to revamp the sports sector over the next decade, focusing on talent identification, coach training, sports science, and modern infrastructure development.About the AuthorTOI Business DeskThe TOI Business Desk is a vigilant and dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant business news from around the world to readers of The Times of India. The primary focus of the TOI Business Desk is to keep a watchful eye on the global business landscape, covering a wide spectrum of industries, markets, economic trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact businesses and economies. With a mission to provide valuable insights and updates, the desk ensures that TOI readers are well-informed about the ever-changing and dynamic world of commerce and can navigate the complexities of the business world.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi Calls Budget 2026 Historic As Reforms Empower Youth Women And India’s Growth Push’Nothing For Bengal’: Mamata Banerjee Attacks ‘Humpty Dumpty’ Union Budget 2026 As Markets TumbleIn First Budget Since Sindoor, FM Sends Signal On Security As Defence Outlay Jumps To ₹7.85L CroreTax Holidays, Safe Harbour, Incentives: Budget 2026 Pushes Investment In India, Boosts IT SectorBudget 2026 Brings New Income Tax Act From April With No Slab Change But Major Compliance ResetSubsidies, Jobs, AI Tool: FM Sitharaman Unveils Big Budget Boost For Agri Sector To Help FarmersMental Health Takes Priority In Budget 2026, FM Sitharaman Announces NIMHANS 2 For North IndiaBudget 2026: Individual Investment Limit For Overseas Residents Doubled To 10%, Sitharaman AnnouncesBudget 2026 Signals Infra First Strategy With Public Capital Expenditure Raised To ₹12.2 Lakh CroreBudget 2026 Targets Tariff Risks As FM Nirmala Sitharaman Rolls Out ₹10,000 Crore Lifeline For MSMEs123PhotostoriesUnion Budget 2026: 6 nuts that got attention of the government and whyNo one Killed Jessica’, ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’, ‘Veer-Zaara’: 5 fearless roles that prove Rani Mukerji is Bollywood’s ultimate Mardani!Union Budget 2026: From coconut to chocolate, things which have got attention in this year’s budget and whyTaylor Swift’s 7 most expensive possessionsCJ Roy death case: What remains unclear as the probe continues7 most memorable Grammy moments to rewind before the 2026 awardsBudget-friendly destinations in 2026: 8 Indian places that should be on every traveller’s wish list this yearBudget 2026: Nirmala Sitharaman wears a purple saree rooted in the 1,400-year-old weaving legacy of the Pallava dynastyUnion Budget 2026: 7 high-speed rail corridors announced, including Mumbai-Pune, Hyderabad-Bengaluru; check full listNavi Mumbai airport goes 24/7: Inside the quiet shift to round-the-clock ops123Hot PicksBudget highlights 2026Budget Income Tax SlabUnion Budget 2026February 2026 bank changesIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingNirmala Sitharaman SareeMany Pacquiao vs Conor Height DifferenceBengaluru Worker Dead NewsMLB Trade RumorsDwyane Wade WifeSnowboarder Ryan Wedding CaseUnion Budget Speech LiveStock Market BudgetUnion Budget SpeechGold Silver Rate Today

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman NEW DELHI: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday delivered a 1 hour 25 minute presentation of the Union Budget 2026-27, marking her record ninth consecutive budget. She made several major announcements covering income tax, defence, railways, MSMEs, healthcare, and more.The budget was hailed as “historic” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi,…

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Feb 01, 2026, 16:18 IST

Feb 01, 2026, 16:18 IST

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Pakistan’s Usman Tariq (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary) Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq found himself at the centre of attention following the second T20I against Australia in Lahore, responding pointedly on social media after an on-field moment involving Cameron Green sparked debate. The episode unfolded at the Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday during Australia’s run chase. Green, attempting an…

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Defence, education, railways, income tax & more: 10 big announcements in Union Budget 2026

Defence, education, railways, income tax & more: 10 big announcements in Union Budget 2026

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman NEW DELHI: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday delivered a 1 hour 25 minute presentation of the Union Budget 2026-27, marking her record ninth consecutive budget. She made several major announcements covering income tax, defence, railways, MSMEs, healthcare, and more.The budget was hailed as “historic” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi,…

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‘Ramba Ho’ star Kalpana Iyer is open to work; Says she is grateful for Aditya Dhar and ‘Dhurandhar’

‘Ramba Ho’ star Kalpana Iyer is open to work; Says she is grateful for Aditya Dhar and ‘Dhurandhar’

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Actress Kalpana Iyer, 70, is eager to return to acting after her iconic ‘Rambo Ho’ dance went viral following its feature in ‘Dhurandhar’. She expressed gratitude to director Aditya Dhar for reviving her song and hopes the renewed attention will lead to age-appropriate roles, even brief ones. Iyer, who last appeared on screen in 1999,…

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Union Budget 2026: Why Sitharaman’s Buddhist Circuit Plan is a big deal for Northeast tourism; what industry experts have to say |

Union Budget 2026: Why Sitharaman’s Buddhist Circuit Plan is a big deal for Northeast tourism; what industry experts have to say |

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

In a landmark move, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has revealed plans for a new Buddhist Circuit scheme for six Northeastern states in the Union Budget 2026–27. The budget was presented in Parliament on February 1, 2026 and this announcement marks a major policy shift to boost India’s religious tourism portfolio. This initiative will create a…

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What Budget 2026-27 means for Indian IT industry: 8 Biggest announcements

What Budget 2026-27 means for Indian IT industry: 8 Biggest announcements

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Photo credit: PTI Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman today presented the Union Budget for the Financial Year (FY) 2026-27. The announcements includes significant measures for accelerating the growth of India’s Electronics and Information Technology Sector. In a major push to attract global data centre investments, the government has proposed a 20-year tax holiday for foreign…

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UAE signs million agreement with UN World Food Programme for Sudan | World News

UAE signs $20 million agreement with UN World Food Programme for Sudan | World News

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

UAE signed a US$20 million agreement with the UN World Food Programme to support Sudan/Image: WAM The United Arab Emirates has reinforced its humanitarian commitment to Sudan by signing a new cooperation agreement that will channel urgent food assistance to communities hit hardest by the ongoing conflict.The cooperation agreement was signed between the UAE Aid…

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi NEW DELHI: Leader of opposition in Lok Sabh Rahul Gandhi on Sunday slammed the Union Budget 2026-27, calling it “blind to India’s real crises” and accusing the government of ignoring deep economic distress faced by ordinary citizens.In a post on X, the Leader of the Opposition laid out what he described as the country’s pressing problems: “Youth without jobs. Falling manufacturing. Investors pulling out capital. Household savings plummeting. Farmers in distress. Looming global shocks – all ignored.” He added that it was “a Budget that refuses course correction, blind to India’s real crises.”Gandhi’s remarks came soon after finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Budget, in which she raised the capital expenditure target to Rs 12.2 lakh crore for FY27, up from Rs 11.2 lakh crore in the current fiscal. Budget 2026Budget 2026 Live Updates: Govt sets capital expenditure target for FY27 at Rs 12.2 lakh croreUnion Budget 2026-27: What gets cheaper, what gets costlierLatest income tax slabs FY 2026-27: What are the income tax slabs, rates under new and old tax regime after Budget 2026? Check full details & FAQsThe Budget also outlined infrastructure measures, including projects in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, against a backdrop of global uncertainty, trade frictions and slowing exports.Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also slammed the budget, arguing that the government lacked both ideas and direction. “The Modi Government has run out of ideas. Budget2026 does not provide a single solution to India’s many economic, social, and political challenges,” he wrote. In another post, Kharge said, “‘Mission Mode’ is now ‘Challenge Route’. Reform Express rarely stops at any ‘Reform’ Junction. Net result: NO policy vision, NO political will.”He also pointed to rural distress and inequality. “Our Annadata Farmers still await meaningful welfare support or an income security plan. Inequality has surpassed the levels seen under the British Raj, but the Budget does not even mention it,” Kharge said, adding that states under financial stress had not been offered relief and that “Federalism has become a casualty”.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Nothing For Bengal’: Mamata Banerjee Attacks ‘Humpty Dumpty’ Union Budget 2026 As Markets TumbleIn First Budget Since Sindoor, FM Sends Signal On Security As Defence Outlay Jumps To ₹7.85L CroreTax Holidays, Safe Harbour, Incentives: Budget 2026 Pushes Investment In India, Boosts IT SectorBudget 2026 Brings New Income Tax Act From April With No Slab Change But Major Compliance ResetSubsidies, Jobs, AI Tool: FM Sitharaman Unveils Big Budget Boost For Agri Sector To Help FarmersMental Health Takes Priority In Budget 2026, FM Sitharaman Announces NIMHANS 2 For North IndiaBudget 2026: Individual Investment Limit For Overseas Residents Doubled To 10%, Sitharaman AnnouncesBudget 2026 Signals Infra First Strategy With Public Capital Expenditure Raised To ₹12.2 Lakh CroreBudget 2026 Targets Tariff Risks As FM Nirmala Sitharaman Rolls Out ₹10,000 Crore Lifeline For MSMEsUnion Budget 2026: Odisha, Kerala, Andhra, Tamil Nadu To Get Dedicated Rare Earth Corridors123PhotostoriesUnion Budget 2026: 6 nuts that got attention of the government and whyNo one Killed Jessica’, ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’, ‘Veer-Zaara’: 5 fearless roles that prove Rani Mukerji is Bollywood’s ultimate Mardani!Union Budget 2026: From coconut to chocolate, things which have got attention in this year’s budget and whyTaylor Swift’s 7 most expensive possessionsCJ Roy death case: What remains unclear as the probe continues7 most memorable Grammy moments to rewind before the 2026 awardsBudget-friendly destinations in 2026: 8 Indian places that should be on every traveller’s wish list this yearBudget 2026: Nirmala Sitharaman wears a purple saree rooted in the 1,400-year-old weaving legacy of the Pallava dynastyUnion Budget 2026: 7 high-speed rail corridors announced, including Mumbai-Pune, Hyderabad-Bengaluru; check full listNavi Mumbai airport goes 24/7: Inside the quiet shift to round-the-clock ops123Hot PicksBudget highlights 2026Budget Income Tax SlabUnion Budget 2026February 2026 bank changesIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingNirmala Sitharaman SareeMany Pacquiao vs Conor Height DifferenceBengaluru Worker Dead NewsMLB Trade RumorsDwyane Wade WifeSnowboarder Ryan Wedding CaseUnion Budget Speech LiveStock Market BudgetUnion Budget SpeechGold Silver Rate Today

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi NEW DELHI: Leader of opposition in Lok Sabh Rahul Gandhi on Sunday slammed the Union Budget 2026-27, calling it “blind to India’s real crises” and accusing the government of ignoring deep economic distress faced by ordinary citizens.In a post on X, the Leader of the Opposition laid out what he described as the country’s pressing problems: “Youth without jobs. Falling manufacturing. Investors pulling out capital. Household savings plummeting. Farmers in distress. Looming global shocks – all ignored.” He added that it was “a Budget that refuses course correction, blind to India’s real crises.”Gandhi’s remarks came soon after finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Budget, in which she raised the capital expenditure target to Rs 12.2 lakh crore for FY27, up from Rs 11.2 lakh crore in the current fiscal. Budget 2026Budget 2026 Live Updates: Govt sets capital expenditure target for FY27 at Rs 12.2 lakh croreUnion Budget 2026-27: What gets cheaper, what gets costlierLatest income tax slabs FY 2026-27: What are the income tax slabs, rates under new and old tax regime after Budget 2026? Check full details & FAQsThe Budget also outlined infrastructure measures, including projects in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, against a backdrop of global uncertainty, trade frictions and slowing exports.Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also slammed the budget, arguing that the government lacked both ideas and direction. “The Modi Government has run out of ideas. Budget2026 does not provide a single solution to India’s many economic, social, and political challenges,” he wrote. In another post, Kharge said, “‘Mission Mode’ is now ‘Challenge Route’. Reform Express rarely stops at any ‘Reform’ Junction. Net result: NO policy vision, NO political will.”He also pointed to rural distress and inequality. “Our Annadata Farmers still await meaningful welfare support or an income security plan. Inequality has surpassed the levels seen under the British Raj, but the Budget does not even mention it,” Kharge said, adding that states under financial stress had not been offered relief and that “Federalism has become a casualty”.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Nothing For Bengal’: Mamata Banerjee Attacks ‘Humpty Dumpty’ Union Budget 2026 As Markets TumbleIn First Budget Since Sindoor, FM Sends Signal On Security As Defence Outlay Jumps To ₹7.85L CroreTax Holidays, Safe Harbour, Incentives: Budget 2026 Pushes Investment In India, Boosts IT SectorBudget 2026 Brings New Income Tax Act From April With No Slab Change But Major Compliance ResetSubsidies, Jobs, AI Tool: FM Sitharaman Unveils Big Budget Boost For Agri Sector To Help FarmersMental Health Takes Priority In Budget 2026, FM Sitharaman Announces NIMHANS 2 For North IndiaBudget 2026: Individual Investment Limit For Overseas Residents Doubled To 10%, Sitharaman AnnouncesBudget 2026 Signals Infra First Strategy With Public Capital Expenditure Raised To ₹12.2 Lakh CroreBudget 2026 Targets Tariff Risks As FM Nirmala Sitharaman Rolls Out ₹10,000 Crore Lifeline For MSMEsUnion Budget 2026: Odisha, Kerala, Andhra, Tamil Nadu To Get Dedicated Rare Earth Corridors123PhotostoriesUnion Budget 2026: 6 nuts that got attention of the government and whyNo one Killed Jessica’, ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’, ‘Veer-Zaara’: 5 fearless roles that prove Rani Mukerji is Bollywood’s ultimate Mardani!Union Budget 2026: From coconut to chocolate, things which have got attention in this year’s budget and whyTaylor Swift’s 7 most expensive possessionsCJ Roy death case: What remains unclear as the probe continues7 most memorable Grammy moments to rewind before the 2026 awardsBudget-friendly destinations in 2026: 8 Indian places that should be on every traveller’s wish list this yearBudget 2026: Nirmala Sitharaman wears a purple saree rooted in the 1,400-year-old weaving legacy of the Pallava dynastyUnion Budget 2026: 7 high-speed rail corridors announced, including Mumbai-Pune, Hyderabad-Bengaluru; check full listNavi Mumbai airport goes 24/7: Inside the quiet shift to round-the-clock ops123Hot PicksBudget highlights 2026Budget Income Tax SlabUnion Budget 2026February 2026 bank changesIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingNirmala Sitharaman SareeMany Pacquiao vs Conor Height DifferenceBengaluru Worker Dead NewsMLB Trade RumorsDwyane Wade WifeSnowboarder Ryan Wedding CaseUnion Budget Speech LiveStock Market BudgetUnion Budget SpeechGold Silver Rate Today

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi NEW DELHI: Leader of opposition in Lok Sabh Rahul Gandhi on Sunday slammed the Union Budget 2026-27, calling it “blind to India’s real crises” and accusing the government of ignoring deep economic distress faced by ordinary citizens.In a post on X, the Leader of the Opposition laid out what he described…

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‘A pattern has developed’: Former India cricketer questions Sanju Samson’s batting method

‘A pattern has developed’: Former India cricketer questions Sanju Samson’s batting method

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

India’s Sanju Samson (PTI Photo) Sanju Samson’s long-awaited return to his home ground offered little respite from a difficult run with the bat. Playing in front of his hometown crowd in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday, the Kerala batter endured yet another lean outing, registering his fifth consecutive failure in the T20I series against New Zealand. Samson’s…

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Budget 2026: Space department allocation rises to Rs 13,706 crore, capital spend gains pace

Budget 2026: Space department allocation rises to Rs 13,706 crore, capital spend gains pace

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

BENGALURU: The Department of Space (DoS) has been allocated Rs 13,705.6 crore for 2026-27, marking a steady rise over the revised estimate of Rs 12,448.6 crore in the current fiscal. The increase is driven largely by higher capital expenditure, signalling a push towards new launch vehicles, satellite infrastructure and upcoming exploration missions .Of the total…

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“I think I’ve pressed refresh more than 300 times”: Why the e-visa website keeps crashing and how to fix it

“I think I’ve pressed refresh more than 300 times”: Why the e-visa website keeps crashing and how to fix it

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Applying for an India e-visa, or as a matter of fact, applying for an e-visa of any country, is supposed to be a straightforward online process. In reality, for many travellers in early 2026, it has been anything but. What should take minutes has stretched into hours, sometimes days. Reason being repeated crashes, pages stuck…

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