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India US Trade Deal: Markets Go Wild! Sensex Soars 2073 Points, Industry Leaders Cheer

India US Trade Deal
Image Credit: Google

India US Trade Deal: Leading industry leaders from India welcomed the India US trade deal after months of tariff-related issues between the world’s two superpowers.

In a post on Truth social, US President Donald Trump remarked that he is pleased to announce a deal with India. Trump thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and acknowledged the mutually-beneficial economic relationships between the two nations.

 Trump added that India has offered not to buy any more crude oil from Russia and would be putting in an investment of $500 billion to buy American goods.

The deal would help Indian exports reap the benefits of reduced tariffs and lower trade barriers. It would also facilitate faster and easier cross-border trade while providing more confidence to global investors to invest in India.

India US Trade Deal-Industry Reactions

Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, remarked that the significant reduction in economic tariffs by the United States would go a long way to strengthen economic and strategic relations between the two countries. Birla added that the US India deal would also open new investment and collaboration avenues.

The Aditya Birla Group Chairman added that the India US trade deal would help in unlocking manufacturing opportunities, building more resilient supply chains and enhancing long-term competitiveness in economic terms for both nations.

Anish Shah, Group CEO and Managing Director of the Mahindra Group, remarked that the India US trade deal would help in boosting growth momentum while also enhancing the predictability that businesses require to invest with confidence.

Sudarshan Venu, Chairman of TVS Motor Company, hailed the trade deal. Venu commented that the deal would improve competitiveness, accelerate technology collaboration and deepen supply chain integration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had remarked that India welcomes the reduction on tariffs from 25 percent to 18 percent on all products “Made in India”. Modi also thanked the US President and the India US trade deal would strengthen cooperation between two of the world’s largest democracies.

Markets Go Wild!

On Tuesday, The Nifty 50 stock index closed 2.5 percent higher. The Indian rupee strengthened 1 percent, banking indices closed higher by 2.4 percent, information technology indices closed higher by 1.4 percent.

Dhurandhar: While Sequel Teaser Dropped, Ranveer Singh’s Spy Actioner Quietly Crossed THIS Big Milestone By Beating Aamir Khan’s Dangal, Check

Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar 4 crore footfall beats Dangal
Photo Credit: X

As the buzz around Dhurandhar 2 continues to grow, the first film has delivered a surprise of its own. On the same day the sequel’s teaser was released, Dhurandhar crossed a major box office milestone that very few Indian films have ever achieved. The Ranveer Singh-starrer has now recorded over 40 million (4 crore) footfalls across India.

This achievement has pushed Dhurandhar into an elite list in Indian cinema history. Only 19 films have managed to reach this level of audience turnout. While most eyes were on the sequel teaser, it was the original film’s strong performance that grabbed attention across the trade.

The milestone also highlights the film’s long and steady theatrical run. Instead of fading after the opening weekend, Dhurandhar continued to pull crowds week after week, driven largely by strong word of mouth.

Dhurandhar Crosses 4 Crore Footfall Milestone

Released on December 5, 2025, Dhurandhar began its box office journey with a decent opening of around Rs 30 crore. It was not a blockbuster start, but the film gradually found its audience. Over the next few days, positive reactions helped the film grow steadily.

As weeks passed, Dhurandhar began breaking single-day collection records and showed rare staying power. By the end of its seventh week in theatres in January, the film had earned more than Rs 800 crore net, taking its worldwide gross close to Rs 1000 crore.

Based on an average ticket price of Rs 250, trade analysts estimate that the film has now sold over 4 crore tickets in India alone. This makes it the first Bollywood film in 24 years to achieve this feat after Gadar, which recorded 5 crore footfalls in 2001. In today’s market, where ticket prices are high and theatrical runs are shorter, such numbers are considered exceptional.

Dhurandhar Beats Dangal And Other All-Time Blockbusters

With this milestone, Dhurandhar has joined a rare club of Indian films. While legendary titles like Sholay, Baahubali 2, Mughal-e-Azam, and Mother India remain far ahead with over 10 crore tickets sold each, the Ranveer Singh film has still managed to outperform several modern and classic hits.

Most notably, Dhurandhar has crossed the domestic footfall figures of Aamir Khan’s Dangal, which recorded around 3.7 crore footfalls. It has also moved ahead of PK (3.5 crore), Sunny Deol’s Border (3.7 crore), Shah Rukh Khan’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (3.5 crore), and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (3.1 crore).

In addition, the film has surpassed older classics such as Dev Anand’s CID (3.1 crore) and Raajkumar’s Laila Majnu (3.6 crore). Trade experts say this performance reflects the film’s strong reach beyond metro cities. Its appeal in mass centres and single screens helped sustain collections over a long period.

All About This Ranveer Singh Starrer

Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar follows the story of Jaskirat Singh Rangi, played by Ranveer Singh. He is an Indian death-row inmate recruited by IB chief Ajay Sanyal, portrayed by R. Madhavan, for a dangerous undercover mission.

Disguised as an underworld operative, Jaskirat is sent into Karachi’s Lyari district to take down a terror network led by Rehman Dakait, played by Akshaye Khanna. The film also stars Sanjay Dutt as a senior police officer and Arjun Rampal as an ISI operative.

Inspired by real-life events such as the IC-814 hijacking and the 2001 Parliament attacks, Dhurandhar blends action with a strong nationalistic theme. With its record-breaking footfalls and lasting audience support, the film has set a new benchmark ahead of Dhurandhar 2.

Did Priyanka Chopra Just Confirm Being Part Of Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3? Varanasi Actress’ Response Leaves Fans Guessing

Priyanka Chopra on Don 3 and Krrish 4
Photo Credit: X

Priyanka Chopra is back in the headlines, and fans cannot stop talking about it. The global star has returned to India for her first Hindi film in nearly six years, and her latest comments have sparked fresh excitement around Don 3. While Priyanka did not give a clear yes or no, her words were enough to set social media buzzing.

The actress is making her long-awaited comeback to Indian cinema with SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi, where she stars opposite Mahesh Babu. The film is already among the most talked-about upcoming projects. During recent interviews, Priyanka opened up about returning home, working across industries, and what this new chapter means to her.

As expected, the conversation soon shifted to her past blockbusters. Fans have been eager to know whether she will return to two of her most popular franchises, Don and Krrish. Her answers were carefully chosen and full of intrigue.

Priyanka Chopra On Working In Hollywood And Indian Cinema

In an interview with ScreenRant, Priyanka spoke honestly about the difference between Hollywood and Indian film sets. She explained how she adapts to both worlds without mixing them. “Um, yes, I think that the culture of filmmaking is very different in Hollywood versus how we work in India, and you have to pivot your brain. So I can divide my brain into two. I don’t think there is a world in which you bring lessons from there, here, or vice versa. I think you have to, like, immerse yourself into…”

She also stressed that a director’s vision plays the biggest role in shaping her performance. “And I believe, anyway, an actor’s journey is through a director’s vision, whether it was Ilya in heads of state or any other work that I’ve done abroad, all filmmakers in Hindi cinema or television cinema. I think you just have to go into every film set with, you know, the originality of whatever you’re going to receive from that set.”

Talking about her return to India, Priyanka sounded emotional and grateful. She said, “But, I’m so happy to be coming back and, you know, making this movie in India, because if there was any other, any way to come back into Indian cinema, it was this.”

Priyanka Chopra Talks About Don 3 And Krrish 4

With Varanasi marking her official return, questions about Don 3 were unavoidable. The franchise holds a special place in Priyanka’s career, and fans have long hoped to see her back in the action-packed series produced by Farhan Akhtar.

When asked directly about Don 3 and Krrish 4, Priyanka chose to stay silent on details. She said, “I don’t know if I can talk about either of them at all.” That single line was enough to send fans into overdrive. Adding to the moment, Mahesh Babu jokingly remarked, “Then there’s something happening.”

Instead of shutting down the rumours, Priyanka kept the excitement alive. She hinted at more projects in the future and shared what she enjoyed most about returning to Indian films. “Exciting, exciting times ahead, and, yes, this (Varanasi) is the first one that I’m doing after, like, almost six years in India, and just coming back. My favourite part was getting to dance again, which I haven’t done in any of my Hollywood productions. I was really excited to be able to do that.”

While Varanasi is still about a year away from its theatrical release, Priyanka will appear on screens much sooner. Her Hollywood production The Bluff is set to premiere on OTT on February 25, 2026.

Until then, her comments have kept fans guessing. Whether or not Priyanka Chopra is part of Don 3, one thing is clear. Talking about Don 3, recent reports claimed that the project has been put on HOLD again due to casting issue. Farhan Akhtar is said to be focusing on Jee Le Zaraa now.

World Cancer Day 2026: 17 Medicines, One Promise – Will Cancer Treatment Finally Cost Less In India? Here’s What You Must Know

World Cancer Day 2026
Photo Credit: Created with Gemini

On World Cancer Day 2026 (Feb 4, 2026), a recent announcement in India’s Union Budget has put the spotlight on cancer care. The government has proposed a major policy change that could affect how much patients pay for life-saving treatment.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a cut in taxes on several costly cancer medicines. The decision has raised hopes among patients and health experts alike. However, it has also sparked debate on whether the move will truly make treatment affordable for everyone.

During her Budget speech on February 1, the finance minister said the government would remove basic customs duty on 17 critical cancer drugs. These are medicines that are mostly imported and often come with high taxes, making them expensive for patients.

The exemption covers drugs used in breast cancer, blood cancers, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and other advanced treatments. Along with this, the Budget also waives import duty on medicines for seven rare diseases, as well as specialised medical foods and therapies.

World Cancer Day 2026: Why Cutting Customs Duty On Cancer Drugs Matters

Imported cancer drugs are among the most expensive parts of cancer treatment in India. Customs duty adds to their final price, increasing the burden on patients and families.

By removing this tax, the government aims to lower costs at the entry level. Experts say that even a small cut in duty can reduce the overall landed cost of high-end oncology medicines.

Finance Minister Sitharaman explained the intent clearly during her speech. She said, “To provide relief to patients, particularly those suffering from cancer, I propose to exempt basic customs duty on 17 drugs or medicines.”

Healthcare analysts believe this step could reduce out-of-pocket expenses, especially for patients who rely on imported drugs. With limited insurance coverage, many families still pay for treatment directly, often draining savings or taking loans.

Will This Budget Move Make Cancer Treatment Affordable?

While the duty exemption sends a strong policy signal, experts caution that it may not be enough on its own. Many of the drugs on the list remain expensive due to patents, high research costs and limited competition.

If manufacturers do not pass on the benefit, the final price may not fall significantly. This is why healthcare advocates stress the need for broader reforms.

They point to stronger domestic drug production, better insurance coverage, price negotiations and patient support programmes as key steps. Without these, the relief for patients could remain limited.

That said, the decision is still seen as a positive move. For advanced treatments that were once out of reach, even a modest reduction can make a difference.

As India marks World Cancer Day 2026, the Budget’s cancer drug relief highlights an ongoing challenge. Making treatment accessible and affordable will need sustained efforts (far beyond a single tax cut).

World Cancer Day 2026: 2 Tests To Proactively Detect Early Signs Of Breast Cancer Progression, Health Coach Shares Oncologist-Certified Opinion

World Cancer Day 2026
Image Credit: Google

World Cancer Day 2026: World Cancer Day on February 4, 2026, falls under the theme “United by Unique”, focusing on early detection and personalized cancer care to save precious lives. Globally, breast cancer is one of the leading causes for deaths among women. Therefore, proactive breast cancer screening is of paramount importance, especially in a country like India where late diagnoses are common.

The count of breast cancer cases in the country has surged by more than 20 percent in the last decade. However, early intervention could go a long way to boost survival rates to 90 percent or more.

World Cancer Day 2026-Why Focus on Breast Cancer Early Detection?

In early states, the progression of breast cancer often happens silently and without any noticeable symptoms until advanced. The common signs of breast cancer progression include lumps in the breasts, discharge from the nipples or changes in breast skin.

Proactive breast cancer tests can be performed to detect abnormalities like cancerous tumours or calcifications before symptoms. This allows timely breast cancer treatment with less invasive options such as targeted therapy or surgery. Several oncologists recommend that every girl and women, above the age of 15 years, should perform regular, self-assessed breast screening, especially those with family history or genetic markers like BRCA1/2.

Tests To Proactively Identify Breast Cancer

Test 1: Mammogram – The Gold Standard Screening

Mammogram is the most basic test for breast cancer. This low-dose, X-rat imaging can be used to detect breast tumours or micro-calcifications up to 2 years before palpation.

Performed in less than 15 minutes, mammogram involves compressing the breast between plates for clear and concise images. False positives can be minimized by relying on digital mammography with tomosynthesis (3D). Additionally, ultrasound may be recommended for dense breasts that are common in Indian women.

Test 2: Breast Ultrasound – Ideal for Dense Tissue Detection

Known for its real-time imaging capabilities, breast ultrasound helps in differentiating solid masses from cysts, identifying the signs of cancerous progression such as irregular growths that may remain invisible by mammograms in dense breasts. This non-invasive and radiation-free form of cancer identification is an excellent choice for women of or above the age of 30, and high-risk individuals.

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is not a substitute for a qualified medical opinion in any way. The methods and claims mentioned in this article should be considered as suggestions only; DNP India neither confirms nor denies them. Always consult a doctor before following any such suggestions/treatments/medications/diets.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann’s efforts deliver as Hinduja Group shows interest in Punjab, creating new opportunities for youth

CM Mann

Punjab’s push to position itself as a global investment hub gathered momentum on Tuesday as the Hinduja Group, one of the world’s leading diversified conglomerates, signalled strong interest in investing in the state following detailed discussions with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. Presenting Punjab as a stable, future-ready and business-friendly destination, the Chief Minister underlined the state’s expanding industrial footprint, policy reforms and growing investor confidence, backed by investment proposals worth ₹1.5 lakh crore received since March 2022 and a clear roadmap spanning sectors from electric mobility to digital services.

During the meeting, Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab is the best state in the country from the investment point of view as it is credited with the best infrastructure facilities, surplus power, a pool of skilled manpower, excellent road, rail and air connectivity, a flawless telecommunication network and above all, ease of doing business,”

Elaborating on the opportunities available, the Punjab CM said that Punjab offers immense scope for investment in sectors such as electric vehicles, financial and digital services, digital transformation and cyber security, renewable energy and sustainability, healthcare and social impact, industrial and real estate collaboration, strategic acquisitions and investments, among others. “Punjab has always been a land of resilience, enterprise and rich heritage, and the Hinduja Group can be immensely benefited from it,” he said, adding that Punjab is proud to be the Food Basket of India and contributes the largest share to the nation’s grain pool.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that while Punjab has traditionally played a vital role in ensuring the country’s food security, the state’s industrial journey has now taken a dynamic turn. “Today Punjab is an industrial powerhouse, leading in sectors such as food processing, textiles, auto components, hand tools, bicycles, information technology, tourism and others,” he said.

He added that Punjab’s industrial growth has acquired a global character, with investors from across the world recognising the state’s potential. “Since March 2022, Punjab has received investment proposals worth Rs 1.5 lakh crore, with the potential to create over 5.3 lakh jobs, positioning the state as an emerging hub for industrial growth and innovation,” he said.

Highlighting the confidence reposed by global corporations, the Chief Minister said that Punjab is home to several prestigious international companies including Nestlé, Claas, Freudenberg, Cargill, Verbio and Danone, all of which have established operations in the state and are contributing to its economic transformation. “These international companies recognise Punjab’s potential and the conducive environment we provide for businesses to thrive,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, adding that the state’s global reach is evident through investments from countries such as Japan, the United States of America, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Switzerland, France, Spain and others.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab’s growth story is only at its beginning. “Punjab has truly become a preferred investment destination not only for Indian investors but also for investors from across the world,” Bhagwant Singh Mann said. He informed that in recent months, the state government has undertaken high-level international engagements in Japan and the Republic of Korea, which have further strengthened Punjab’s global partnerships. “These engagements have opened new avenues for collaboration in advanced manufacturing, electric vehicle mobility, electronics and display technologies, renewable energy, food processing and sports science,” he said.

Referring to interactions with global industry leaders, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that leading companies and institutions in Tokyo, Osaka and Seoul had expressed strong confidence in Punjab’s governance model, the state’s skilled workforce and its commitment to aftercare. “The learnings from these global innovation hubs, whether Japan’s excellence in precision manufacturing and research and development or Korea’s dynamic models like Pangyo Techno Valley, are now being integrated into Punjab’s next phase of industrial development,” he said, adding that the state has created an investor-friendly ecosystem that promotes ease of doing business.

The Chief Minister further stated that Punjab ranks as a Top Achiever in Ease of Doing Business and has launched the Fast Track Punjab Portal, described as India’s most advanced single-window system. “The portal offers single entry and exit with over 200 government-to-business approvals and services, ensures zero offline applications and fast-track approvals,” he said.

The Punjab CM added that through the Punjab Right to Business Act, the state provides in-principle approval within just five days for eligible units up to Rs 125 crore. “Punjab is the first state to introduce major regulatory reforms such as time-bound clearances within 45 days, deemed approvals, escalation mechanisms and extended validity for key licences,” he said.

Emphasising investor facilitation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that support mechanisms such as WhatsApp alerts, artificial intelligence chatbots and call centres ensure real-time responsiveness. “Digital chief risk officer reports, extended validity of fire no-objection certificates and leasehold-to-freehold conversions are further simplifying operations,” he said.

Reiterating the importance of collaboration, he said that partnership between government and industry is central to success. “Industrial growth can only be achieved when government and industry work as equal partners,” he said, adding that this principle underpins the New Industrial Policy of Punjab introduced in 2022. “The policy was shaped in consultation with industry leaders and stakeholders to ensure it caters to their needs and aspirations,” he said.

The Chief Minister informed the industry leaders that the state has constituted 24 sectoral committees, each chaired by captains of industry, to formulate sector-specific policies. “The state government is fully committed to forging a partnership of equality, transparency and mutual support with industries and businesses,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said.

Inviting industry leaders to the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit 2026, scheduled to be held at Plaksha University, IT City, Mohali, Punjab from March 13 to 15, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the summit will bring together industry leaders, policymakers and innovators. “It will serve as a platform to share ideas and collaborate on shaping Punjab’s future industrial landscape,” he said.

Punjab delegation, under the leadership of CM Bhagwant Singh, holds high-level meetings with leading corporate and industry groups

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, today commenced the two-day Mumbai Investment Roadshow as part of the Government of Punjab’s strategic investment outreach. The roadshow was held as a key pre-summit initiative ahead of the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit 2026, scheduled from 13–15 March 2026 in Mohali.

The Mumbai Roadshow aimed to formally extend summit invitations to leading industry stakeholders and deepen investment engagement with corporates, financial institutions, and sector leaders, while showcasing Punjab’s reform-oriented, investor-friendly governance framework.

On the first day of the roadshow, the Punjab delegation held a series of high-level one-to-one meetings with senior leadership from prominent corporate groups including Hindustan Unilever Limited, Motilal Oswal Group, Cargill India, Hinduja Group, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited, Waaree Group, Parksons Packaging, and Whistling Woods International.

The discussions focused on exploring expansion and new investment opportunities in Punjab across sectors such as FMCG, agri-business, food processing, energy, logistics, manufacturing, packaging, and creative industries. The State’s FastTrack single-window clearance system, time-bound approvals, Right to Business framework, policy stability, skilled manpower, and robust industrial infrastructure were highlighted during these interactions.

Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister was hosted by Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman, Hinduja Group. On this occasion, the Chief Minister formally released a book titled “Coins of the Kunindas (Punjab Region)”, reflecting Punjab’s rich historical and cultural heritage alongside its forward-looking economic vision.

The first day concluded with a Punjab Roadshow Session, which witnessed strong participation from senior industry leaders representing marquee organisations such as Tata Consultancy Services, Tata Steel, Accenture, UPL, Tynor, Whistling Woods, GrowthCap Ventures, and World Trade Center Mumbai. Industry representatives shared perspectives on Punjab’s industrial potential and highlighted the facilitative governance environment and responsive institutional support extended by the State.

Addressing industry participants, the Chief Minister conveyed that this is the right time for investors to invest in Punjab. He emphasised that the State is well positioned to serve as a competitive manufacturing and services base, supplying not only domestic markets but also global value chains. The Chief Minister called upon industry to scale operations from Punjab, move up the value chain, and place greater focus on research and development to enhance innovation, productivity, and global competitiveness.

The Chief Minister further reiterated the Government of Punjab’s commitment to enabling micro, small and medium enterprises to grow into large enterprises, strengthening manufacturing and services, and positioning Punjab as a preferred investment destination in North India through sustained reforms, infrastructure development, and proactive investor facilitation.

Aman Arora on Majithia’s Bail: Law, Evidence and Truth Are Stronger Than Political Celebrations

Aman Arora

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab President and Cabinet Minister Aman Arora, reacting to the bail granted to Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia, made it clear that bail should not be misrepresented as exoneration. He said that the people of Punjab must understand that this relief is purely procedural and does not weaken the serious corruption charges against Majithia in any manner.

Aman Arora said that the bail has been granted on technical grounds related to the period of custody and completion of procedural formalities, not on the merits of the case. “Majithia has not been given a clean chit. The allegations of massive corruption remain intact and will now be tested thoroughly in court,” he said.

Taking a sharp political dig, Aman Arora said that those celebrating the bail are deliberately misleading the public to hide their own past sins. “The Akali-BJP ecosystem wants to create a false narrative, but facts cannot be buried under political noise. The people of Punjab have already seen how drugs and corruption flourished under their rule,” he added.

The AAP minister highlighted that the Vigilance Bureau has completed a strong and comprehensive investigation, uncovering assets worth hundreds of crores that are disproportionate to Majithia’s known sources of income. A detailed chargesheet running into tens of thousands of pages, backed by solid documentary evidence, has already been filed. “This is not a weak or half-baked case,” Aman Arora asserted.

He further underlined that the judicial process is being protected from political manipulation and media sensationalism. The trial court has already put clear restrictions on media reporting of the proceedings to ensure a fair trial. “Unlike previous regimes, the AAP government does not believe in media trials. We believe in rule of law, evidence and judicial verdicts,” he said.

Aman Arora also pointed out that strict bail conditions have been imposed on the accused to prevent any interference with the trial. “Majithia cannot flee the country, cannot influence witnesses, and must face the court on every hearing. This itself shows the seriousness of the case,” he said.

Reiterating the AAP government’s firm stand, Aman Arora said, “Our government has zero tolerance for corruption. No matter how influential a person is, if he has looted Punjab and destroyed its future, he will be held accountable. The fight against drugs and corruption will not stop at bail orders; it will continue until justice is delivered.”

He concluded by saying that the AAP government is confident that truth will emerge victorious in court. “The people of Punjab want justice, not political drama. And justice will be delivered on the basis of facts, evidence and law,” Aman Arora said.

Punjab Tops India in SGST Cash Growth: Harpal Singh Cheema

Harpal Cheema

Punjab has recorded strong and broad-based growth in GST collections in January 2026, reflecting improved compliance, focused enforcement and sustained economic activity, even in the face of significant revenue challenges arising from GST 2.0 rate rationalisation by the Government of India.

Gross GST collection in the State during January 2026 stood at Rs. 2452.66 crore, whereas NET GST collection registering year-on-year growth of ₹315 crore at the rate of 15.7% over January 2025, revealed the Finance, Excise and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema.

This achievement is particularly noteworthy as Punjab faced an estimated monthly revenue loss of around Rs. 250 crores due to GST 2.0 rate reductions impacting key sectors such as yarn, textiles, hosiery, pharmaceuticals, insurance, tyres and cement. Despite this structural loss, the State not only compensated for the revenue impact but also delivered growth well above the national trend through sustained administrative and enforcement efforts.

Divulging more, the Minister said that on a year-to-date basis (up to January 2026), net GST collections have grown by 13.4%, with cumulative collections increasing from Rs. 19,415 crores to Rs. 22,014 crores. The Gross GST collections during the same period have also recorded a healthy growth of 13.0%, underscoring the resilience of Punjab’s tax base.

A key highlight of January 2026 has been the exceptional performance in SGST cash collections, which grew by 14.4%, the highest growth rate among all States in India for the month. This stands in sharp contrast to the national average cash growth of around 6%, placing Punjab significantly ahead of the all-India trajectory.

At the same time, the State has maintained a strong focus on taxpayer facilitation. During January 2026 alone, Rs. 129 crores of SGST refunds were issued, while total GST refunds in the month amounted to approximately Rs. 300 crores. This balanced approach of firm revenue mobilisation combined with timely and regular refunds reflects a mature, transparent and taxpayer-friendly tax administration.

Enforcement actions have also yielded substantial results. The State Intelligence and Preventive Units (SIPUs) crossed Rs. 200 crores in stopping ITC theft & arresting the trend of bogus billing during January 2026 through road checking, inspections and verifications. With this, total enforcement recovery in the current financial year is nearing Rs. 1,000 crores, the highest ever, clearly demonstrating intensified and data-driven action against tax evasion.

In addition to GST 2.0-related challenges, Punjab has faced further fiscal pressure due to the unilateral deduction of approximately Rs. 280 crores from IGST settlements by the Centre over the last three months. Despite this adverse impact on State revenues, Punjab continues to remain firmly in the green, reflecting the strength of its GST administration and compliance ecosystem.

Despite rate rationalisation, sector-specific revenue losses and IGST settlement deductions, Punjab has successfully protected its revenue base and achieved growth well above the national average. This performance highlights how improved analytics, targeted enforcement, enhanced voluntary compliance and efficient administration can effectively offset structural and policy-driven revenue constraints.

The Department of Taxation reiterates its commitment to fair, transparent and technology-driven tax administration, ensuring sustained revenue growth for the State while simultaneously promoting ease of doing business and timely refunds for compliant taxpayers, added Harpal Singh Cheema.

Weather Update February 3 2026: IMD Predicts Coldest February For Delhi NCR! Bihar, Haryana And Chandigarh To Get Engulfed In Thick Fog, Kashmir And HP To Be Covered In Heavy Snow

Weather Update February 3 2026
Image Credit: Google

Weather Update February 3 2026: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a snowy day for the states of Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh; Ladakh may also receive moderate to heavy snow. There are also possibilities of moderate to heavy rainfall in these states along with Delhi NCR, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

Weather Update February 3 2026-Jammu and Kashmir Weather Update

Shopian, Ramban, Doda, Kupwara, Pulwama, Akhnoor, Samba, Reasi, Ganderbal, Kulgam and Kishtwar may notice moderate to heavy snowfall with rain showers during the early morning or late evening hours.

Rajouri, Srinagar, Jammu, Anantnag, Baramulla, Udhampur, Kathua, Bandipora and Poonch are likely to witness bone-chilling cold and snowfall.

Uttar Pradesh Weather Update

Prayagraj (Allahabad), Lucknow, Kanpur, Ghaziabad, Agra, Meerut, Varanasi and Bareilly are likely to have a mild, pleasant day. Thick fog may be prevalent during early morning or late night hours.

Muzaffarnagar, Mathura, Moradabad, Aligarh, Saharanpur, Gorakhpur, Noida, Firozabad, Loni, Jhansi, Shahjahanpur and Rampur may notice dense fog, especially during early morning or late night hours.

Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh Weather Update

Anantnag, Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, Tehri Garhwal, Chamoli, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi and Kangra may receive rainfall.

Delhi NCR Weather Update

Gurugram, Noida, Delhi and Ghaziabad are likely to have a pleasant day. There may be a possibility of moderate rain showers in some places.

Punjab Weather Update

Zirakpur, Batala, Pathankot, Abohar, Malerkotla, Khanna, Muktsar, Barnala, Firozpur, Kapurthala and Phagwara are likely to witness moderate to heavy rain showers.

Rajpura, S.A.S. Nagar (Mohali), Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Patiala, Bathinda, Hoshiarpur and Moga may experience dense fog during early morning hours. Moderate rainfall may happen in isolated places.

Haryana Weather Update

Palwal, Hans, Karnal, Sonipat, Yamunanagar, Panchkula, Jind, Thanesar, Kaithal, Rewari, Gurugram, Rohtak, Hisar, Panipat, Faridabad, Ambala, Bhiwani, Narnaul, Bahadurgarh and Sirsa are likely to experience dense fog during early morning hours.

Rajasthan Weather Update

Bharatpur, Bikaner, Bhiwadi, Udaipur, Ajmer, Pali, Jaipur and Jodhpur may experience rain showers at some places along with violent thunderstorms.

Bhilwara, Alwar, Sikar, Kota, Kishangarh, Hanumangarh, Sri Ganganagar, Beawar, Baran and Banswara are likely to witness dense fog during early morning hours.

Madhya Pradesh Weather Update

Guna, Shivpuri, Vidisha, Chhindwara, Khandwa, Morena, Bhind and Burhanpur along with Ratlam, Rewa, Indore, Gwalior, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Ujjain, Sagar, Dewas and Satna may experience light rain showers; the weather otherwise would be mostly pleasant.

Anxiety Management: Science And Mechanism Behind Paper Bag Breathing For Panic Attacks Explained, AIIMS Doctor Weighs In

Anxiety Management
Image Credit: Google

Anxiety Management: Panic attacks can happen anytime and to anyone, irrespective of their age, demographics or gender. According to Mayo Clinic, panic attacks can trigger severe physical and emotional reactions and may cause an individual to assume that they are losing control over a specific situation or the occurrence of an event.

Dr Priyanka Sehrawat, DM Neurology from AIIMS Delhi, general physician and neurologist, MD Medicine, explains that a simple paper bag can prove out to be a good tool for people who experience frequent panic attacks.

Anxiety Management-What Happens During Panic Attacks?

Panic attacks are usually characterized by intense, fast breathing. Because of this, the presence of carbon dioxide in an individual’s blood tends to “erode” out via the lungs at a speedy rate. This leads to an alteration of the body’s pH balance. Dr Sehrawat explains that this shift could become quite apparent from a wide range of symptoms like palpitations, nervousness, and heaviness in the individual’s chest, pain in any side of the chest or pain in the back’s shoulder muscles.

How Can A Paper Bag Help?

Individuals who experience frequent panic attacks may use a normal paper bag to cover their mouth and nose. The paper bag needs to be hold in such a way that it is sealed shut over the openings. Thereafter, the individual is required to breathe in slowly, in an out for 5-15 times. The paper bag technique is beneficial to retain the level of carbon dioxide that may get washed out by the body.

This helps in normalizing the blood pH levels as the carbon dioxide gets retained and its concentration gets normalized in the blood. This, in turn, translates to the neutralization of panic attack symptoms within a few minutes.

The Recommendation of Dr Sehrawat

Dr Sehrawat recommends that individuals who experience frequent panic attacks must immediately consult a psychologist or psychiatrist. This would help them identify what kind of medicine-related or non-medicine-related changes they should undergo to manage their anxiety and panic attacks.

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is not a substitute for a qualified medical opinion in any way. The methods and claims mentioned in this article should be considered as suggestions only; DNP India neither confirms nor denies them. Always consult a doctor before following any such suggestions/treatments/medications/diets.

Yami Gautam Joins Dhurandhar 2? Aditya Dhar’s Surprising Twist In Ranveer Singh Starrer Spy Thriller Revealed

Yami Gautam in Dhurandhar 2 The Revenge
Photo Credit: X

Yami Gautam Dhurandhar 2: Ranveer Singh’s spy thriller Dhurandhar is set to get even more exciting with a new addition to the cast. Reports suggest that Dhurandhar 2 will feature Yami Gautam in a special cameo. The sequel (officially titled Dhurandhar The Revenge) promises to expand the high-stakes world created by director Aditya Dhar while adding a new twist with Yami’s entry.

Yami Gautam In Dhurandhar 2?

Yami Gautam had once shared that after reading Aditya Dhar’s original script, she wished she were a man just to be part of the amazing world of Dhurandhar. Despite being “desperately” drawn to the story, she was not cast in the first film, as Dhar felt the male-centric roles were better suited for other actors. However, the actress has now reportedly joined the sequel for a high-impact cameo.

According to sources cited by Pinkvilla, Yami Gautam’s role in Dhurandhar 2 is full of action and plays an important part in the story. She has already filmed for around five days. Even though it’s a cameo, her appearance is expected to be memorable. With a strong track record in films like Kaabil, Uri – The Surgical Strike, A Thursday, Dasvi and HAQ, Yami is known for playing determined and intense characters. Her brief role in the sequel is likely to leave a strong impact.

About Dhurandhar The Revenge

The first Dhurandhar starred Ranveer Singh, Sara Arjun, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal and Rakesh Bedi. It became one of the biggest box office hits of 2025, crossing the Rs 1000 crore mark comfortably. The sequel will continue the story, shifting from infiltration to revenge and exploring the emotional stakes following the 26/11 attacks. Ranveer Singh returns as Jaskirat Singh Rangi, navigating a dangerous double life while targeting Major Iqbal, a high-ranking ISI strategist played by Arjun Rampal.

The film also promises deeper character arcs and backstories. R Madhavan will play a more prominent mentor role, while Akshaye Khanna appears in throwback sequences. He has already shot additional scenes for it.

iFans were treated to a fresh poster and the sequel’s teaser today. However, many expressed disappointment and revealed that it reused end-credit footage from the first film. Now, the trailer is expected to arrive in late February as the film approaches its March 19 release.

Are you excited to watch Yami Gautam in Dhurandhar 2? Tells us in the comments!

Noida Viral Video: Humanity Shamed Yet Again! Staff Demands Rs 3000 to “Pack” Dead Patients, CMO Orders Investigation

Noida Viral Video
Image Credit: Google

Noida Viral Video: The post-mortem facility in Sector 94 of Noida, the only such facility in Gautam Buddh Nagar, has come under the scanner after a viral video emerged.

Noida Post-mortem Facility Viral Video-The Complete Incident

According to media reports, a man named Rachit committed suicide in Chipiyana Buzurg of Gautam Buddh Nagar. His dead body was sent to the post-mortem facility in Noida’s Sector-94. The staff at the facility demanded Rs. 3,000 from the deceased’s family so they can “pack” the body.

When denied, the staff asked them to make their own arrangements and even refused to touch the dead body. With no options left, the deceased’s family decided to take things into their own hands and brought a shroud (kafan sheet) from a nearby crematorium. During this duration, the deceased’s family made a video of the entire proceedings.

Interestingly, the post-mortem staff also has the contract for running the staff ambulance. The staff demands indiscriminate charges from the families of deceased people with an aim to make big profits. According to media reports, the post-mortem facility’s staff does not even provide a stretcher if their demanded money is not paid to them.

CMO Orders ACMO To Conduct Detailed Investigation

The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) has ordered the Additional Chief Medical Officer (ACMO) to conduct a detailed investigation into this matter and submit an urgent report.

The post-mortem facility is not new to controversies. In August 2024, a man and a woman were found to be in a compromising situation beside a deceased’s body on a stretcher. It was reported that the man was working in the capacity of a sweeper at the post-mortem facility. The sweeper was previously working at the Danakur Health Centre and joined the Sector-94 post-mortem facility in June 2024.

Previously, a video emerged of the facility wherein many bodies were seen lying everywhere in wait of autopsies because of an increase in heat-related deaths.

Punjab Anti-Gangster Drive: Anurag Dhanda Reveals 148 Arrests & Weapons Recovery in 13 Days

Anurag Dhanda
Google

Anurag Dhanda: Punjab Police’s intensive anti-gangster campaign, titled Gangstran Te Vaar, continues to show strong results as authorities tighten their grip on organised crime across the state. On the thirteenth day of the drive, senior officials, including government spokesperson Anurag Dhanda, shared key updates highlighting the impact of coordinated police action.

The campaign was launched on January 20, 2026, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, with the objective of dismantling gangster networks and restoring public safety across Punjab.

Coordinated Operations Across Districts

The drive is being executed through close coordination between district police units and the Anti Gangster Task Force, ensuring intelligence sharing and rapid action. The approach builds on earlier law enforcement efforts and focuses on identifying repeat offenders, criminal hideouts, and illegal weapon storage points.

Authorities have stated that the aim is not limited to arrests alone but also to disrupt criminal networks and prevent future gang-related activities.

Day Thirteen Results Show Strong Action

On the thirteenth day of operations, Punjab Police carried out 767 raids across multiple districts. These operations led to the arrest of 148 individuals linked to gangster activities. Police also recovered four illegal weapons, further weakening criminal capabilities.

With these arrests, the total number of people taken into custody since the launch of the campaign has reached 4,061, reflecting the scale and consistency of the crackdown.

Preventive Measures and Public Cooperation

In addition to arrests, police took preventive action against 178 individuals suspected of potential criminal involvement. Another 291 people were questioned, verified, and released, while 14 proclaimed offenders were successfully apprehended.

To strengthen public participation, authorities have activated a dedicated helpline 93946-93946, allowing citizens to share information about criminal activities anonymously. Officials emphasised that public cooperation remains crucial to the success of the campaign

Bhagwant Mann to Host Progressive Punjab Investors Summit 2026 – Major Investment Opportunities Unveiled

Bhagwant Mann
Google

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is set to host the Progressive Punjab Investors Summit 2026, scheduled to take place from March 13 to March 15 in Mohali. The sixth edition of the summit aims to position Punjab as a competitive and future-ready investment destination by attracting both domestic and global investors.

The event is expected to serve as a major platform to showcase Punjab’s industrial potential, policy reforms, and infrastructure readiness at a time when states are actively competing for fresh investments.

Platform for Investors, Policymakers, and Industry Leaders

The summit will bring together industrialists, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and innovators to discuss collaboration opportunities and long-term growth strategies. Planned sessions include sector-specific discussions, policy briefings, and direct interactions between investors and senior government officials.

Bhagwant Mann has taken an active role in promoting the summit through investment roadshows in cities such as Gurugram, Bengaluru, and Delhi, along with outreach efforts abroad, including meetings with business groups in South Korea. These efforts are aimed at building confidence and expanding Punjab’s global investor network.

Key Sectors in Focus

The Progressive Punjab Investors Summit 2026 will highlight opportunities across a wide range of sectors. These include manufacturing, renewable energy, mobility solutions, electronics, automotive components, food processing, consumer durables, tyres, and infrastructure development.

Punjab is emphasising its transparent governance model, single-window clearance system, and faster project approvals to improve ease of doing business. Officials point out that the state has already attracted over one point four lakh crore rupees in investments through the Invest Punjab initiative.

Strong Promotion and Advantage Punjab Pitch

During promotion campaigns, Mann has highlighted Punjab’s skilled workforce, reliable power availability, industrial connectivity, and logistics advantages. Roadshows have featured one-on-one meetings with investors and presentations under the “Advantage Punjab” theme to encourage long-term partnerships.

Gut Health: ‘Your Second Brain Is Under Attack’ Delhi Doctor Warns, Shares 3 Kitchen Ingredients To Heal Naturally, Check Video

Gut Health - 3 Kitchen Ingredients To Heal Naturally
Photo Credit: Created with Gemini

Gut Health: Did you know most major health problems don’t start in your heart or liver? According to Delhi doctor Saleem Zaidi, they begin inside your gut. And it’s not just junk food outside your home causing trouble. It’s the everyday foods and habits inside your kitchen that quietly damage your digestion. If you understand this today, you can prevent nearly half of your health problems. Plus, Dr Zaidi shares a simple desi remedy using just three common kitchen ingredients that can instantly improve gas, acidity, heaviness and overall gut health.

Our gut doesn’t just process food. It determines your energy, immunity, skin glow and even your mood. A healthy gut means a healthy body. Surprisingly, your gut is about 7–8 meters long and contains nearly 500 million neurons. That’s why scientists call it our “second brain.” It also produces serotonin, the happy hormone. So, when your gut is weak, sadness, anxiety, irritability and low motivation can automatically appear.

Why Gut Health Gets Weakened

Dr Zaidi explains that poor gut health is caused by multiple everyday factors:

  1. Processed and fast food – Excess junk food damages the gut lining. He recalls an 11-year-old girl whose intestine ruptured after consuming too much junk food.
  2. Overuse of medicines – Frequent use of antibiotics and painkillers disturbs gut bacteria.
  3. Chronic stress and overthinking – Mental health directly affects digestion.
  4. Poor sleep and late-night meals – Disrupts gut repair cycles.
  5. Years of gas, acidity, and constipation – Weakens the gut lining, leading to toxin leakage into the bloodstream, a condition called leaky gut.

Even a normal diet can cause issues if it lacks fiber, the main food for good gut bacteria. Without fiber, digestion slows, bowel movements become irregular, and gas or acidity increases. High-fiber foods like oats, daliya, jowar, bajra, vegetables like bottle gourd, okra, carrots, cabbage, and fruits like apples, pears, guava, and bananas are essential. Eat fruits whole — juices don’t give the same benefit.

How To Protect And Improve Gut Health

1. Include probiotic foods: Homemade curd, buttermilk, kanji and fermented foods restore the balance between good and bad bacteria. Avoid packaged flavoured curd or store-bought buttermilk.

2. Eat prebiotic foods: Onions, garlic, bananas, oats and cumin feed good bacteria and strengthen your gut ecosystem.

3. Stay hydrated: Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily. Low water intake causes hard stools, constipation, and toxin buildup.

4. Try intermittent fasting: Give your gut 12–16 hours to rest once or twice a week. This allows digestion to reset and improves energy, while reducing gas and acidity.

5. Reduce sugar and ultra-processed foods: Sugar weakens good bacteria and strengthens bad ones, leading to bloating, gas, and cravings. Packaged snacks, chips, and ready-to-eat foods disturb gut balance.

Simple Desi Remedy For Daily Digestion

Dr Zaidi recommends a Cumin–Coriander–Mint water recipe:

  • Take 1 glass of water.
  • Add ½ teaspoon cumin seeds, ½ teaspoon coriander seeds and a few crushed mint leaves.
  • Boil, strain and drink lukewarm after lunch, sip slowly.

Cumin improves digestion and feeds good bacteria, coriander cools acidity and mint reduces heaviness. Over time, it can make your stomach lighter, improve energy, clear your skin and strengthen immunity.

A healthy gut can truly change your life. Half of your health problems start and end her. Take care of your gut and the rest of your body will thank you.