India’s GDP growth for the second quarter of FY25 stood at 5.4 percent, driven by the slowdown caused by the Lok Sabha elections. However, the outlook for the third quarter is more optimistic, with a boost expected from festive spending. The government is also banking on the larger impact of new tax reforms to drive growth, with unprecedented income tax cuts designed to increase disposable income.

The newly introduced tax cuts benefit over 75 percent of salaried individuals, with people earning Rs. 10 lakh annually gaining an additional Rs. 50,000 in disposable income. Higher earners, such as those making Rs. 25 lakh, will see an additional Rs. 1.1 lakh. This leaves households with more spending power, which will likely be used for consumption, including food, FMCG products, and even big-ticket items like cars, improving both domestic demand and the government’s indirect tax revenue.

The government is also placing a strong emphasis on agriculture, focusing on crop diversification and improving infrastructure to support farmers. The Dhan Dhaanya Yojana targets rural districts with the lowest productivity, aiming to increase the disposable income of farmers and improve market access. This initiative, alongside the promotion of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), will be pivotal in integrating small farmers into India’s growth story.

In addition to short-term measures, the government is committing to long-term asset creation, with a capex of over Rs. 50 lakh crore over the last four budgets. This will fund critical infrastructure projects in sectors like roads, railways, and defense, driving both employment and economic growth. These projects have also had a positive impact on women’s employment and entrepreneurship in various regions.

The focus on manufacturing is also reshaping India’s job market. With a push towards formalisation and growth in MSMEs, more people are expected to seek opportunities in manufacturing, which will foster a new wave of employment.

Furthermore, the government is looking to capitalise on smaller, innovative ideas. An example is transforming India Post into a major logistics player integrated with the Open Network for Digital Commerce, which would support MSMEs and young entrepreneurs across the country.

The Modi government’s fourteen budgets tell a story of significant reforms, from reducing tax rates to narrowing the fiscal deficit. The welfare transfer programs, which amount to Rs. 40 lakh crore, have directly benefited millions, further reinforcing the government’s focus on inclusive growth.

The message from the budget is clear: Now is the time to invest in India and grow with the nation. With a focus on both macroeconomic stability and microeconomic development, the government’s policies are set to drive India’s economic future.

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Key initiatives in the budget include an extension of the Jal Jeevan Mission until 2028, with a goal of achieving 100% rural water supply coverage and improving the maintenance of existing infrastructure. Furthermore, the Bharatnet Project will expand broadband connectivity to all rural government secondary schools and primary health centres, ensuring better access to education and healthcare.

India Post will be pivotal in the growth of rural economies, offering services like micro-enterprise credit, digital services, and logistics support to entrepreneurs, MSMEs, and self-help groups. This aligns with the government’s push to empower rural communities through greater economic inclusion.

Another significant announcement is the launch of the Rural Prosperity and Resilience Program, which aims to tackle under-employment in agriculture by promoting skill development, technology adoption, and investments. This program is designed to support rural women, young farmers, marginalized communities, and landless families.

The rural development initiatives have already shown considerable results, such as a reduction in the multidimensional poverty rate from 24.85% to 14.96%. Additionally, rural internet users have increased to 398.35 million, while wages have steadily grown across both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors.

In terms of rural infrastructure, programs like the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) have provided all-weather roads, and the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) has delivered housing to those in need. The Mission Amrit Sarovar has rejuvenated over 68,843 ponds, ensuring sustainable water resources, while the National Rural Health Mission continues to offer quality healthcare to rural populations.

The Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) continues its efforts in the second phase to maintain open defecation-free status and manage waste, contributing to a cleaner, healthier rural environment. Alongside, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) has received Rs. 86,000 crore in the FY 2024-25, securing rural livelihoods and providing much-needed employment opportunities.

The budget also emphasizes programs like the Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana, PM-JANMAN, Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana, and Gram Nyayalayas Act, all of which aim to further uplift rural India. With these initiatives, the government is steadfast in its vision to build a developed and self-reliant India by 2047.

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Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi shared a message urging all voters to participate fully in this “festival of democracy.” He wrote, “In today’s Delhi Assembly elections, votes will be cast for all seats. I urge the voters here to participate in this festival of democracy with full enthusiasm and make sure to cast their valuable vote.”

Modi further extended special wishes to young voters, particularly first-time voters, advising them humorously, “First vote, then refreshments!” The message underscored the significance of each vote, especially for the younger generation stepping into the electoral process for the first time.

With polling underway from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm today, Delhi has 1,56,14,000 registered voters. The electorate includes 83,76,173 males, 72,36,560 females, 1,267 third-gender voters, and 2,39,905 first-time voters. Additionally, 1,09,368 elderly voters aged 85 and above and 79,885 persons with disabilities are also part of the voter list.

The security measures for the election are extensive, with around 97,955 personnel and 8,715 volunteers deployed. This includes 220 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), 19,000 Home Guards, and 35,626 Delhi Police personnel. These arrangements ensure that the polling process proceeds peacefully and securely.

To ensure inclusivity, 70 polling stations are being run exclusively by women staff, another 70 by persons with disabilities, and 70 more to encourage youth participation. Additionally, voters can track crowd levels in real-time through the “Delhi Election – 2025 QMS” app available on Google Play Store. On-site medical teams and creche facilities for parents with young children are also in place.

Polling stations are color-coded for easy identification, and voters can contact the helpline number (1950) for assistance with finding their designated booths and resolving any election-related queries.

Prime Minister Modi’s appeal was echoed by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who also took to social media, urging voters to “First vote, then refreshments!” He emphasized the importance of casting votes wisely, calling it a critical act in shaping Delhi’s future and strengthening democracy.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) seeks a third consecutive term, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under Modi’s leadership, is aiming to regain control of the Delhi Assembly. The BJP has targeted AAP over issues like Yamuna water and corruption, while Congress, through Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, has accused AAP of mismanaging Delhi’s infrastructure.

On the eve of voting, Chief Electoral Officer R Alice Vaz also appealed to voters, highlighting voting as both a right and a civic duty. “On the day of voting, February 5th, I urge all voters in Delhi to come out in large numbers and cast their votes. It is our foremost responsibility as citizens to participate in this democratic process,” she said.

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Voting began at 7:00 am and will continue until 6:00 pm, with officials making special arrangements to facilitate a peaceful process. Delhi has 1,56,14,000 registered voters, including 83,76,173 males, 72,36,560 females, and 1,267 third-gender voters. Additionally, there are 2,39,905 first-time voters aged 18-19, 1,09,368 elderly voters aged 85 and above, and 79,885 voters with disabilities.

To support the election, a total of 97,955 personnel and 8,715 volunteers have been deployed. Security is being reinforced by 220 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), 19,000 Home Guards, and 35,626 Delhi Police personnel.

In an effort to promote inclusivity, 70 polling stations will be managed exclusively by female staff, while another 70 will be operated entirely by persons with disabilities. Additionally, 70 stations have been designated to encourage youth participation. Voters can also track crowd levels in real-time through the “Delhi Election – 2025 QMS” app, available on Google Play Store. Medical teams and creche facilities will be on-site to cater to emergency needs and parents with children.

To further assist voters, polling stations are color-coded for easy identification, and a helpline number (1950) has been set up to resolve any election-related queries.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is striving for a third consecutive term, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is making a strong effort to regain control. The BJP’s campaign, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has targeted Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on issues such as Yamuna water pollution and corruption. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra have also held rallies, accusing AAP of damaging Delhi’s infrastructure.

On the eve of voting, Chief Electoral Officer R Alice Vaz appealed to all eligible voters, urging them to participate in the democratic process: “I encourage everyone to come out and vote; it is both a right and a responsibility.”

However, the silent period preceding the election was marked by some controversy. The BJP filed a complaint alleging that AAP workers were causing disturbances and could potentially influence voters. A social media video showing an AAP worker holding a weapon was also widely circulated, sparking concerns.

Prominent Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Sandeep Dikshit, were seen casting their votes at various polling stations. Union Minister Hardeep Puri and BJP leader Lakshmi Puri also participated in the voting process.

In a related development, AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi met with the Election Commissioner to discuss concerns over violence and hooliganism during the silent period.

Contested constituencies such as New Delhi, Jangpura, and Kalkaji are drawing significant attention. AAP currently holds more than 60 of the 70 assembly seats and is seeking re-election based on its performance.

The New Delhi seat is set for a high-profile three-way contest between AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal, BJP’s Parvesh Verma, and Congress’s Sandeep Dikshit. In Kalkaji, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi (AAP) faces competition from Congress’s Alka Lamba and BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri. Meanwhile, the Jangpura constituency features a battle between AAP’s Manish Sisodia, Congress’s Farhad Suri, and BJP’s Tarvinder Singh Marwah.

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The mock polling started at 6:00 am at multiple locations, including Mayur Vihar Phase 1 in the Patparganj Assembly constituency and Nirman Bhawan in the New Delhi Assembly constituency.

The official voting will take place today from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm for the 70 Assembly constituencies in Delhi. “I urge all Delhi residents to come forward and vote. We have made extensive arrangements at polling stations to make sure the process is comfortable for all voters,” said Delhi Chief Electoral Officer R Alice Vaz.

With 1,56,14,000 registered voters in total, Delhi’s electorate consists of 83,76,173 males, 72,36,560 females, and 1,267 third-gender voters. Additionally, 2,39,905 first-time voters aged 18-19, 1,09,368 senior citizens aged 85 and above, and 79,885 voters with disabilities are part of the electorate.

To ensure a smooth election process, over 97,955 personnel and 8,715 volunteers have been deployed across the city. Security measures include 220 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), 19,000 Home Guards, and 35,626 Delhi Police personnel, all dedicated to ensuring peaceful polling.

For greater inclusivity, 70 polling stations will be managed entirely by women, while another 70 will be run by persons with disabilities. Additionally, 70 stations have been set up to promote youth participation.

An AI-based Queue Management System app, “Delhi Election – 2025 QMS,” available on the Google Play Store, helps voters monitor real-time crowd levels at polling stations. Emergency medical teams will be available, and creche facilities are offered for parents with young children.

The polling stations will also be color-coded for easy identification, and voters can contact the helpline (1950) for assistance with booth locations and election-related queries.

Hotly contested constituencies include New Delhi, Jangpura, and Kalkaji. The AAP, which currently holds more than 60 seats in the 70-seat Delhi Assembly, seeks re-election based on its performance in previous terms.

The New Delhi seat features a high-profile three-way race between AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal, BJP’s Parvesh Verma, and Congress’s Sandeep Dikshit, the son of former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit.

In Kalkaji, incumbent Delhi Chief Minister Atishi (AAP) faces off against Congress’s Alka Lamba and BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri. Meanwhile, Jangpura will see AAP’s Manish Sisodia contesting against Congress’s Farhad Suri and BJP’s Tarvinder Singh Marwah.

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Freeland emphasized the need for Canada to retaliate strategically, saying, “Our counterpunch must be dollar-for-dollar and precisely targeted.” The proposal comes amid ongoing tensions as Trump has repeatedly referred to the US trade deficit with Canada, a nation rich in natural resources, as a subsidy.

Canada is a key export market for 36 US states, with nearly $3.6 billion Canadian (US$2.7 billion) worth of goods crossing the border each day. However, John Ries, senior associate dean at the University of British Columbia, cautioned against publicizing such a list in advance, suggesting it could provoke Trump and make it more difficult for him to back off from his tariff threats.

Freeland also pledged that, if elected, she would prevent American companies from bidding on Canadian federal procurement contracts (excluding defense). She intends to convene an international summit with leaders from Mexico, Denmark, Panama, and the EU to discuss joint responses to challenges to sovereignty and economic stability.

While some lawmakers have proposed cutting energy shipments to the US, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith opposed this idea. Former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney, another Liberal leadership contender, also suggested cutting Quebec’s hydro exports to the US as a possible response.

Freeland’s recent resignation as finance minister led to Trudeau’s announcement that he would step down as Prime Minister once a new Liberal leader is chosen on March 9. With opposition parties vowing to bring down the minority government, a federal election is expected this spring.

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Born to Punjabi immigrants in Winnipeg, Dhalla has a diverse background, including a career in beauty pageants, acting, and entrepreneurship. She holds a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. Prior to politics, she worked as a chiropractor and even starred in the Bollywood-inspired film ‘Kyon? Kis Liye?’.

Dhalla served as a Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2011, becoming the first Indian-origin woman to serve three consecutive terms. Now, she is looking to break new ground as Canada’s first woman of color to serve as Prime Minister.

In her video message on X, Dhalla expressed gratitude and emphasized the historic nature of her campaign to become the first woman of color to lead the country. Her political journey also saw her ranked in the top spots for attractiveness, including being named the third-sexiest female MP in a 2008 poll by Hill Times.

Apart from politics, Dhalla is the CEO and President of the Dhalla Group of Companies. She also made headlines as a 10-year-old when she wrote a letter to then-Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, expressing her concerns about the violence during Operation Blue Star. Gandhi responded personally and invited Dhalla to visit India, though she was assassinated before that could happen.

As part of her leadership campaign, Dhalla pledged to take a hard stance on immigration. She stated, “As Prime Minister, I will deport illegal immigrants and clamp down on human traffickers.” This promise has placed immigration reform at the forefront of her platform, drawing both praise and criticism.

Dhalla faces significant competition from other high-profile figures, such as Mark Carney and Chrystia Freeland. Despite this, she is determined to offer a fresh approach and has outlined a vision of returning the Liberal Party to the center with practical solutions to Canada’s challenges. The winner of the Liberal Party leadership race will be announced on March 9.

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“The PIFI was not mandated to investigate Nijjar’s murder,” the High Commission stated. The statement emphasized that determining accountability for the murder remains a matter for the courts, as the investigation continues.

Tensions between Canada and India escalated in September 2023 when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggested the involvement of Indian agents in Nijjar’s death on Canadian soil. India strongly denied these allegations, calling them “absurd.” Diplomatic relations worsened when Ottawa implicated several Indian diplomats, including High Commissioner Sanjay Verma, in the murder. India responded by recalling Verma and expelling several Canadian diplomats, while Canada expelled Indian diplomats, including Acting High Commissioner Stewart Wheeler.

The PIFI report also mentioned China, Russia, and India as countries allegedly involved in interfering with Canada’s electoral processes. However, India rejected these claims, accusing Canada of interfering in India’s internal matters. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated that Canada’s actions have led to illegal migration and organized crime, calling out Canada’s alleged role in spreading disinformation against India.

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Trudeau pointed out that the tariffs violated the free trade agreement and warned of significant consequences for the American people. The Canadian tariffs will be enforced in phases, with an immediate 25% duty on C$30 billion worth of American products, followed by additional tariffs on C$125 billion worth of goods in 21 days. Trudeau mentioned that non-tariff measures related to energy, critical minerals, and other areas were being considered.

The trade tensions escalated after Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada, while energy products from Canada would be taxed at 10%. The order also included a provision to raise tariffs if any retaliatory measures were taken by these countries. This decision could potentially lead to economic fallout, particularly with the US’s largest trading partners.

Trudeau emphasized that this trade conflict would have consequences for workers and people on both sides of the border. He reiterated that Canada had not wanted to reach this point but would not back down from defending Canadian interests.

In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also announced retaliatory tariffs and condemned the US actions. She emphasized Mexico’s strength and rejected US accusations. China has similarly vowed to counter the US measures to protect its own interests.

The tariffs are part of Trump’s broader strategy, fulfilling campaign promises to tackle issues like illegal immigration and the flow of drugs such as fentanyl. Trump had previously warned Mexico and Canada of such actions, saying they would need to take responsibility for these concerns or face significant penalties.

Trump’s decision to implement these tariffs risks exacerbating the trade conflict with Canada and Mexico, potentially leading to higher inflation and further economic disruptions.

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The Chinese Foreign Ministry also addressed US concerns over fentanyl, stating that China has taken significant steps to control the opioid crisis, including classifying all fentanyl-related substances as controlled in 2019 at the request of the US. China warned that additional tariffs could damage ongoing counternarcotics efforts between the two countries, calling for a rational and cooperative approach to resolve the issue.

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