EPFO okays 8.25 per cent interest rate on PF deposits for 2025-26

IANS | March 2, 2026 4:20 PM

New Delhi, March 2 (IANS) The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) on Monday approved an interest rate of 8.25 per cent on employees’ provident fund (EPF) deposits for 2025-26, retaining the same rate for the second year in a row, according to an official statement.

As Sunetra Pawar takes control, NCP merger hopes fade away

Sanjay Jog | March 2, 2026 3:40 PM

Mumbai, March 2 (IANS) Following the untimely demise of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, his wife, Sunetra Pawar, officially assumed the role of National President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on February 26, signalling a definitive shift in the state's political landscape, effectively dimming the prospects of a reconciliation or merger between the NCP and the Sharad Pawar-led faction.

India has become fastest growing economy in world under PM Modi's leadership: Carney

IANS | March 2, 2026 2:52 PM

New Delhi, March 2 (IANS) Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Monday lauded PM Narendra Modi's leadership, highlighting his stellar role in making India the fastest growing economy in the world over the last decade. Addressing a joint press meeting with Prime Minister Modi following their talks in New Delhi, Carney also spoke about the increasing engagements between India and Canada in the last one year, terming it as an expansion of a valued partnership with new ambition, focus and foresight.

Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana launched in Delhi, govt rolls out multiple benefits for women

IANS | March 2, 2026 2:44 PM

New Delhi, March 2 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu along with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday launched a slew of women-centric welfare initiatives of the Delhi government, including the 'Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana’, the ‘Meri Poonji, Mera Adhikar’ scheme with a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the tune of Rs 100 crore for over 40,000 girls, and the ‘Saheli Pink Smart Card’ offering free bus travel for women in the national Capital.

Centre on high alert over attempts to exploit Iran crisis for communal unrest

Vicky Nanjappa | March 2, 2026 2:09 PM

New Delhi, March 2 (IANS) Following an Intelligence warning, the Union government has advised states to keep a tab on radical pro-Iran preachers. The communication by the government comes in the wake of the Intelligence agencies signalling that some elements would look to take advantage of the ongoing Iran situation and incite violence across the country.