August 29, 2026
Updated: Aug 10, 2026, 19:37 IST

Updated: Aug 10, 2026, 19:37 IST

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

The Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium will host the BWF World Championships from August 17 in New Delhi. (Image: TimesofIndia.com) New Delhi: The Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi has received a fresh coat of paint, new infrastructure, and swanky lights ahead of the BWF World Championships, which return to India after a 17-year gap….

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‘Mother Promise’ early review: Daali Dhananjaya’s film gets positive first reaction; Overseas distributor calls it a ‘Roller coaster laughter ride’

‘Mother Promise’ early review: Daali Dhananjaya’s film gets positive first reaction; Overseas distributor calls it a ‘Roller coaster laughter ride’

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

‘Mother Promise’ early review: Daali Dhananjaya’s film gets positive first reaction; Overseas distributor calls it a ‘Roller coaster laughter ride’ Daali Dhananjaya’s upcoming Kannada film ‘Mother Promise’ has started generating positive reaction ahead of its theatrical release.Set in a fictional version of Bengaluru, ‘Mother Promise’ blends crime, humour and family drama. The story follows a…

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This Kerala businessman celebrated Sanju Samson’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup performance by gifting Rs 1.64 Lakh to employees |

This Kerala businessman celebrated Sanju Samson’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup performance by gifting Rs 1.64 Lakh to employees |

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

India’s victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup led to celebrations across the country. Fireworks lit up city skies. Fans gathered on the streets and outside homes. Social media quickly filled with congratulatory messages for the Indian team. In Kerala, the celebration took a slightly different form. A local businessman decided that the moment…

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Bitcoin crash! Cryptocurrency dives below ,000 for first time in 7 months; .2 trillion wiped out in market rout

Bitcoin crash! Cryptocurrency dives below $90,000 for first time in 7 months; $1.2 trillion wiped out in market rout

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Bitcoin slipped below the $90,000 mark for the first time in seven months on Tuesday, signalling a sharp retreat in risk appetite across global markets. The world’s biggest cryptocurrency, which touched a record high above $126,000 in October, has now surrendered all its gains for 2025 and is down nearly 30 per cent from its…

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(PTI) NEW DELHI: Over 10 central trade unions called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh on Thursday against the government’s “anti-worker” policies. The bandh was supported by farmer organisations and other groups across sectors.The strike call was announced as a mark of “resistance to anti-worker, anti-farmer and anti-national pro-corporate policies of the central government.”Trade unions said nearly 30 crore workers from various sectors were likely to participate in the agitation.The protest was expected to partially affect services such as banking, insurance and transport, with unions serving strike notices across departments and industrial establishments.Also read | Bharat bandh today: Are banks shut amid nationwide strike on February 12?Why the strike was calledThe Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) called upon farmers to join trade union workers in making the all-India general strike a success. In a statement, the SKM said the strike sought the withdrawal of four labour codes, the Electricity Bill-2025, the Seed Bill-2025, the VB-G RAM G Act-2025, restoration of the old pension scheme and implementation of minimum wages for workers, including scheme workers.The platform of agricultural workers’ unions and the NREGA Sangharsh Morcha (NSM) supported and participated in protest demonstrations across the country.“SKM calls upon the people to resist all the new attacks launched by the BJP government on the farmers, the workers and common people,” the statement said.The SKM said the Electricity Bill would raise power tariffs for farmers and domestic users and impose peak-hour charges and smart meters. “SKM is demanding ‘No to Smart Meters’ and 300 units of free electricity to all as is also being promised in BJP election campaigns,” the statement said.It also opposed the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act, alleging that it would depose the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), and objected to the new Seed Bill, stating it would lead to black-marketing of seeds. Follow Bharat Bandh Today Live UpdatesThe SKM opposed free trade agreements, calling them a blueprint of “economic colonisation” through the denial of minimum wages to workers, minimum support price (MSP) to farmers and the right to employment to unemployed youth.“The Modi government has surrendered the sovereignty and the self-reliance of India to the United States of America,” the SKM alleged.“SKM appeals to all farmers to join en masse in the protest demonstration, burn the effigies of Narendra Modi and Donald Trump and copies of the free trade agreements in solidarity with industrial workers and against all the anti-people, pro-corporate government policies,” it said.Insurance sector workers have also protested against the government’s decision to allow up to 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in the sector and the implementation of new labour codes.Impact on key sectors“Services in electricity, banking, insurance, transport, health, education, gas and water supply will be affected due to the nationwide strike call on February 12,” All India Trade Union Congress General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur told PTI.Public sector banks and insurance offices, state transport services in select states, government offices and public sector units, industrial and manufacturing hubs, coal, steel and other core sectors, mining and gas pipeline operations, and rural employment works under MGNREGA in protest areas are expected to see the impact of the agitation.However, all bank unions will not participate in the strike as their united front had already observed a strike on January 27. Bank workers’ unions such as AIBEA, AIBOA and BEFI participated in the protest.What is likely to remain openHospitals, ambulance and emergency health services are expected to remain operational. Metro services are to function subject to local administration decisions.Private offices, IT companies, schools and colleges are likely to remain open depending on state-wise decisions. Essential supply services such as milk and pharmacies are also expected to function.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‘GST After Death?’ Sitharaman Takes Dig at TMC During Budget ReplyRespect One, Call Another Traitor? Sitharaman Exposes Rahul’s Double StandardsBaloch Leader Akhtar Mengal Stuns Pakistan, Says Balochistan’s ‘Separation Is The Only Option Now”Modi Sold Bharat Mata’: Rahul Blasts Centre Over India-US Trade Deal, Govt hits back’India A Priority, No Second Class Citizen’: Jamaat Chief’s Big Statement Before Key Bangladesh VoteBangladesh Elections 2026: Key Players and Why India, China & Pakistan Are WatchingEntertainment Value Or Evidence? Hardeep Puri Blasts Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Buffoonery’ On Epstein FilesMuhammad Yunus Assures Smooth Handover Ahead Of Bangladesh’s First Elections After Hasina Exit”If You Had Taken My Advice” Jagdambika Pal Responds To Rahul Gandhi’s Ex-Congress Jab“Will Move Privilege Notice Against Rahul Gandhi”: BJP Slams Rahul Over ‘Baseless Allegations’123Photostories8 herbs you can grow on a windowsill for cooking and décor10 royal baby names that never go out of styleFrom Ranveer Singh to Randeep Hooda: Bollywood stars who were gifted handwritten letters by Amitabh Bachchan6 Vastu-recommended paintings you should have in your home to attract wealth and prosperityExclusive – Kanika Mann on bagging Naagin 7, playing a negative role and comparisons with Priyanka Chahar Choudhary; says ‘I am open to it’18 must-try coffee drinks from around the world5 real estate hotspots in Surat, Gujarat driving property demand5 fire safety measures every residential building must have5 heartfelt romance dramas on Peacock that are a must-watch ahead of Valentine’s DayKerala Assembly polls 2026: PM Modi kick starts BJP’s campaign with launch of several development projects123Hot PicksBharat bandh todayGold Silver PricesBangladesh Elections 2026Bharat BandhIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingAll American ShowTravis KelceJuraj SlafkovskyLeBron JamesElvis MerzlikinsMilano CortinaKayla NicoleJulia SimonClash Royale ControversyPuka Nacua

(PTI) NEW DELHI: Over 10 central trade unions called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh on Thursday against the government’s “anti-worker” policies. The bandh was supported by farmer organisations and other groups across sectors.The strike call was announced as a mark of “resistance to anti-worker, anti-farmer and anti-national pro-corporate policies of the central government.”Trade unions said nearly 30 crore workers from various sectors were likely to participate in the agitation.The protest was expected to partially affect services such as banking, insurance and transport, with unions serving strike notices across departments and industrial establishments.Also read | Bharat bandh today: Are banks shut amid nationwide strike on February 12?Why the strike was calledThe Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) called upon farmers to join trade union workers in making the all-India general strike a success. In a statement, the SKM said the strike sought the withdrawal of four labour codes, the Electricity Bill-2025, the Seed Bill-2025, the VB-G RAM G Act-2025, restoration of the old pension scheme and implementation of minimum wages for workers, including scheme workers.The platform of agricultural workers’ unions and the NREGA Sangharsh Morcha (NSM) supported and participated in protest demonstrations across the country.“SKM calls upon the people to resist all the new attacks launched by the BJP government on the farmers, the workers and common people,” the statement said.The SKM said the Electricity Bill would raise power tariffs for farmers and domestic users and impose peak-hour charges and smart meters. “SKM is demanding ‘No to Smart Meters’ and 300 units of free electricity to all as is also being promised in BJP election campaigns,” the statement said.It also opposed the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act, alleging that it would depose the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), and objected to the new Seed Bill, stating it would lead to black-marketing of seeds. Follow Bharat Bandh Today Live UpdatesThe SKM opposed free trade agreements, calling them a blueprint of “economic colonisation” through the denial of minimum wages to workers, minimum support price (MSP) to farmers and the right to employment to unemployed youth.“The Modi government has surrendered the sovereignty and the self-reliance of India to the United States of America,” the SKM alleged.“SKM appeals to all farmers to join en masse in the protest demonstration, burn the effigies of Narendra Modi and Donald Trump and copies of the free trade agreements in solidarity with industrial workers and against all the anti-people, pro-corporate government policies,” it said.Insurance sector workers have also protested against the government’s decision to allow up to 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in the sector and the implementation of new labour codes.Impact on key sectors“Services in electricity, banking, insurance, transport, health, education, gas and water supply will be affected due to the nationwide strike call on February 12,” All India Trade Union Congress General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur told PTI.Public sector banks and insurance offices, state transport services in select states, government offices and public sector units, industrial and manufacturing hubs, coal, steel and other core sectors, mining and gas pipeline operations, and rural employment works under MGNREGA in protest areas are expected to see the impact of the agitation.However, all bank unions will not participate in the strike as their united front had already observed a strike on January 27. Bank workers’ unions such as AIBEA, AIBOA and BEFI participated in the protest.What is likely to remain openHospitals, ambulance and emergency health services are expected to remain operational. Metro services are to function subject to local administration decisions.Private offices, IT companies, schools and colleges are likely to remain open depending on state-wise decisions. Essential supply services such as milk and pharmacies are also expected to function.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‘GST After Death?’ Sitharaman Takes Dig at TMC During Budget ReplyRespect One, Call Another Traitor? Sitharaman Exposes Rahul’s Double StandardsBaloch Leader Akhtar Mengal Stuns Pakistan, Says Balochistan’s ‘Separation Is The Only Option Now”Modi Sold Bharat Mata’: Rahul Blasts Centre Over India-US Trade Deal, Govt hits back’India A Priority, No Second Class Citizen’: Jamaat Chief’s Big Statement Before Key Bangladesh VoteBangladesh Elections 2026: Key Players and Why India, China & Pakistan Are WatchingEntertainment Value Or Evidence? Hardeep Puri Blasts Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Buffoonery’ On Epstein FilesMuhammad Yunus Assures Smooth Handover Ahead Of Bangladesh’s First Elections After Hasina Exit”If You Had Taken My Advice” Jagdambika Pal Responds To Rahul Gandhi’s Ex-Congress Jab“Will Move Privilege Notice Against Rahul Gandhi”: BJP Slams Rahul Over ‘Baseless Allegations’123Photostories8 herbs you can grow on a windowsill for cooking and décor10 royal baby names that never go out of styleFrom Ranveer Singh to Randeep Hooda: Bollywood stars who were gifted handwritten letters by Amitabh Bachchan6 Vastu-recommended paintings you should have in your home to attract wealth and prosperityExclusive – Kanika Mann on bagging Naagin 7, playing a negative role and comparisons with Priyanka Chahar Choudhary; says ‘I am open to it’18 must-try coffee drinks from around the world5 real estate hotspots in Surat, Gujarat driving property demand5 fire safety measures every residential building must have5 heartfelt romance dramas on Peacock that are a must-watch ahead of Valentine’s DayKerala Assembly polls 2026: PM Modi kick starts BJP’s campaign with launch of several development projects123Hot PicksBharat bandh todayGold Silver PricesBangladesh Elections 2026Bharat BandhIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingAll American ShowTravis KelceJuraj SlafkovskyLeBron JamesElvis MerzlikinsMilano CortinaKayla NicoleJulia SimonClash Royale ControversyPuka Nacua

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Over 10 central trade unions called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh on Thursday against the government’s “anti-worker” policies. The bandh was supported by farmer organisations and other groups across sectors.The strike call was announced as a mark of “resistance to anti-worker, anti-farmer and anti-national pro-corporate policies of the central government.”Trade unions said nearly…

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How your zodiac sign should worship Lord Shiva

How your zodiac sign should worship Lord Shiva

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

Mahashivratri is going to be celebrated on Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna i.e., February 15, 2026. Devotees across the country will celebrate this festival with great enthusiasm and fervor by performing different types puja rituals and spiritual activities. Here, we have mentioned how should you offer prayers to Lord Shiva…

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Pakistan Women 0/0 in 0.0 Overs | Pakistan W vs South Africa W Live Score, Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Laura Wolvaardt test awaits Pakistan

Pakistan Women 0/0 in 0.0 Overs | Pakistan W vs South Africa W Live Score, Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Laura Wolvaardt test awaits Pakistan

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

South Africa and Pakistan enter this match knowing there is little room left for error. Both teams suffered heavy defeats in their opening games of the Women’s T20 World Cup and now find themselves under pressure. South Africa were beaten by Australia by 64 runs, while Pakistan lost to India by 65 runs. As a…

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‘Saffron shawls not allowed in schools’: Siddaramaiah clarifies Karnataka government’s order after right-wing threats

‘Saffron shawls not allowed in schools’: Siddaramaiah clarifies Karnataka government’s order after right-wing threats

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah clarified on Thursday that saffron shawls will not be allowed in educational institutions, amid the withdrawl of the February 2022 order brought in by the then BJP government that had effectively banned hijabs inside classrooms.Speaking to reporters in Mysuru, Siddaramaiah said the state government’s order allows students to follow existing religious…

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‘Unfounded’: Reliance Industries rejects allegations by Subhash Chandra

‘Unfounded’: Reliance Industries rejects allegations by Subhash Chandra

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Reliance Industries has denied allegations made by Essel Group chairman Subhash Chandra. Chandra claimed Ambani’s media group conducted a witch hunt against him. He also alleged associates manipulated Zee’s share price and used shell entities. Chandra further stated Ambani sought to acquire Zee in collusion with an investor. Lenders are now challenging a tribunal-approved settlement…

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