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Sunita Williams Shares Her ‘Amazing’ Response to ‘How Does India Look from Space?’

Science
During a recent press conference, Sunita Williams, the Indian-origin NASA astronaut who spent 286 days aboard the International Space Station, was asked how India looked from space. Without missing a beat, she responded, “India is amazing, just amazing,” while describing the stunning view of the Himalayas. Williams shared that each time they flew over the mountain range, the crew captured incredible images, with the land transitioning into vibrant colors. She also spoke about the mesmerizing network of lights visible across India at night, highlighting the bustling cities and the coastlines. When asked if she planned to visit India, Williams expressed her eagerness to collaborate with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), saying, "I’d love to be a part of that and help them along."

Three Jaish Terrorists Likely Trapped in Encounter in J&K’s Kathua

Nation
A joint search and destroy operation was launched early Tuesday morning in Kathua's Panjtirthi area by the Indian Army’s Rising Star Corps, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the CRPF, following intelligence reports of possible terrorist activity. This operation comes just days after a deadly encounter in which two terrorists and four policemen were killed. Authorities believe three Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists are trapped near the Panjtirthi temple in the Billawar area. As the operation continues, security forces have intensified their efforts using aerial surveillance and sniffer dogs, with DIG Shiv Kumar Sharma reassuring the public that the mission will persist until all terrorists are neutralized.

Lok Sabha Passes Finance Bill 2025, Including 35 Amendments, Abolishing Digital Tax on Online Ads

Finance
The Lok Sabha has passed the Finance Bill 2025, which includes 35 amendments, one of which abolishes the 6% digital tax on online advertisements. With this approval, the Lok Sabha has completed its part of the budgetary process, and the Bill will now be presented to the Rajya Sabha. The Union Budget for 2025-26 proposes a total expenditure of ₹50.65 lakh crore, a 7.4% increase from the previous fiscal year. Notably, the fiscal deficit is projected at 4.4% of GDP, down from 4.8% in the current year, and the GDP for FY2025-26 is estimated to grow by 10.1%.

RBI Cuts Repo Rate by 25 Bps to 6.25%, Estimates 6.7% GDP Growth for FY26

Finance
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has reduced the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6.25%, marking the first rate cut in five years. This decision aims to stimulate economic growth by making borrowing cheaper, thus encouraging investment and spending. The RBI also revised its GDP growth forecast for FY26 to 6.7%. Additionally, retail inflation is projected at 4.2% for the next fiscal year, with expectations of it gradually aligning with the RBI’s target. Governor Sanjay Malhotra emphasized that despite global uncertainties, India's economy remains resilient.

Finance Ministry Warns Employees Against Using AI Tools like ChatGPT Due to Data Security Risks

Finance
The Finance Ministry of India has issued an advisory restricting employees from using AI tools like ChatGPT and DeepSeek for official work due to concerns over data security and confidentiality risks related to government documents. The directive, dated January 29, 2025, highlights the potential dangers posed by AI tools on office devices. This move aligns with global trends, as countries like Australia and Italy have also raised alarms over the misuse of sensitive information by AI. The advisory surfaced just before OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s visit to India, where he is expected to meet with the IT Minister.

Budget 2025: FM Nirmala Sitharaman Makes history with 8th consecutive Union Budget

Finance
On February 1, 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made history by presenting her eighth consecutive Union Budget, a record-breaking feat in India’s fiscal history. This achievement brings her closer to the 10 budgets presented by former Prime Minister Morarji Desai, who holds the record for the most total budgets. Sitharaman’s tenure has been marked by her break from colonial-era practices, including her choice of a digital tablet to present the Budget. As India navigates a slowing economy and rising demands for tax cuts, Sitharaman’s approach to fiscal policy continues to shape the nation’s economic direction.

Economic Survey 2024-25: Food Inflation on the Rise in India Despite Decline in Overall Inflation

Finance
The Economic Survey 2024-25 reveals that while India’s overall inflation eased from 5.4% in FY24 to 4.9% in FY25, food inflation remains a significant concern. Food inflation rose from 7.5% in FY24 to 8.4% in FY25, driven primarily by higher prices of vegetables and pulses. These price hikes were largely attributed to supply chain disruptions and unpredictable weather patterns. Despite a global downward trend in food prices, emerging economies like India continue to face elevated food inflation. The survey anticipates a slight easing of food inflation in the January-March quarter, but risks such as global commodity price increases and adverse weather events remain.

Defence Sector Eyes Continued Focus on Domestic Production and R&D Funding in Union Budget 2025

Finance
As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present the Union Budget 2025, the defence sector anticipates key measures to strengthen India's strategic capabilities and support self-reliance. Building on last year’s increased allocation of Rs 6.22 lakh crore, experts are hopeful for a continued focus on domestic production, R&D funding, and incentives for the private sector. Sahil Luthra, Managing Director of Vijayan Trishul Defence Solutions, emphasized that such investments are crucial not only for national security but also for boosting economic growth through innovation, exports, and job creation. With a stable economic outlook, the sector is optimistic that the Budget will prioritize innovation and further the vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.

Congress Criticizes Govt. Over Varied Tax Slabs for Popcorn, Questions PM’s Willingness to Overhaul GST

Bussiness
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh criticized the Narendra Modi government over the complexity of the GST system, particularly the "absurdity" of having three different tax slabs for popcorn. He called for a complete overhaul of the system, highlighting how its growing intricacies were facilitating tax evasion, input tax credit fraud, and the establishment of bogus companies. Ramesh also pointed to the recent revelation by the Directorate General of GST Intelligence, which reported a staggering ₹2.01 lakh crore in GST evasion for FY24. As the Union Budget approaches, Ramesh urged the Prime Minister and Finance Minister to launch a GST 2.0 to address these issues.

SBI Advisory Highlights 10 Ways Cyber Criminals Could Scam You

Finance
The State Bank of India (SBI) has issued an advisory warning the public about common cybercrime scams, urging caution amidst the rising number of frauds. The advisory highlights 10 popular scams, including fake TRAI calls, parcel customs fees, and digital arrest threats. It also warns about scams involving easy money offers, lottery wins, and KYC updates. SBI stresses the importance of verifying any suspicious communication, especially when financial or personal details are requested. The advisory aims to help individuals recognize fraud attempts and protect themselves from falling victim to cybercriminals.

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