FAIFA urges government to roll back steep tax hike on tobacco products

IANS | January 2, 2026 11:41 AM

New Delhi, Jan 2 (IANS) The Federation of All India Farmer Associations (FAIFA) on Friday urged the government to roll back the notified excise rates on tobacco products and revise them to revenue-neutral rates, to disincentivise smuggling, and support domestic agriculture.

'Hurting sentiments of 100 crore Hindus': Devkinandan Thakur criticises SRK over Bangladeshi player issue (IANS Exclusive)

IANS | January 2, 2026 11:03 AM

New Delhi, Jan 2 (IANS) Renowned ‘Kathavachak’ Devkinandan Thakur on Friday criticised Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan after his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), bought a Bangladeshi cricketer. Thakur claimed that this action has offended the feelings of Hindus nationwide, particularly in light of the alleged abuses against minorities in Bangladesh.

'His ideals continue to guide us': PM Modi's tributes to Kerala social reformer Mannathu Padmanabhan

IANS | January 2, 2026 10:14 AM

New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 2 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to Mannathu Padmanabhan, a social reformer and freedom fighter, on his birth anniversary, describing him as “a towering personality whose life was dedicated to serving society” and noting that his belief in dignity, equality and social reform continues to guide India towards a just and harmonious future.