Under the proposed interim trade deal, the US has lowered tariffs on India from 50% to 18%. In August last year, Trump had imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on India and an additional 25% penal tariff for India’s crude oil purchases from Russia.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant clarified his remarks comparing some unemployed youth to 'cockroaches,' stating his comments were misquoted and targeted individuals using fake degrees in professions. He expressed pride in India's youth, calling them pillars of a developed nation, and emphasized his respect for them. The clarification followed controversy over his observations during a court hearing.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is urging a focus on increasing the state's population, viewing children as national assets. He announced financial incentives, offering Rs 30,000 for a third child and Rs 40,000 for a fourth, to counter declining birth rates and an aging demographic. This policy aims to address a significant demographic shift.
Oil prices saw a slight uptick as traders awaited crucial talks between US President Trump and China's Xi Jinping. Lingering concerns over the Strait of Hormuz disruptions and the ongoing Middle East conflict are keeping markets on edge. Despite US pressure, China's continued reliance on Iranian oil adds complexity to potential resolutions.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has chosen to keep the Bhabanipur seat and will vacate Nandigram, despite winning both in the recent assembly elections. Adhikari, who previously defeated Mamata Banerjee in Nandigram, had challenged her again by contesting from Bhabanipur. He stated his inability to hold MLA positions from two constituencies and has taken his oath from Bhabanipur.
Arvind Kejriwal urged India's Gen Z to demand accountability in the alleged NEET paper leak, citing their power to drive political change. He questioned the CBI's effectiveness in past leak investigations, claiming the current probe would yield no meaningful results. Kejriwal highlighted how repeated leaks since 2014 have impacted millions of students, with many occurring in BJP-governed states.
