February 4, 2026

Union Govt Drops Excise Duty on Raw Tobacco; Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu Welcomes Move

Union Government reduces excise duty to zero on unbranded raw tobacco from February 1, 2026. Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu hails this step as a boost for tobacco farmers and small traders in the state.

February 4, 2026

US-Russia New START Treaty Set to Expire, Raising Global Nuclear Risk

The New START nuclear treaty between the US and Russia will expire this Thursday. Without it, no formal limits will guard the world's biggest nuclear powers. Moscow warns that this marks the start of a more dangerous global phase.

February 4, 2026

Lok Sabha Adjourned After 8 MPs Suspended Amid Opposition Protests

Lok Sabha was adjourned on Feb 3 after suspending 8 Opposition MPs for throwing papers. Opposition voices concern over India-US trade deal. Rahul Gandhi protests not being allowed to speak on security.

February 4, 2026

ED Arrests Former Rajasthan MLA Baljit Yadav for Money Laundering in Funds Embezzlement Case

The Enforcement Directorate arrested former Rajasthan MLA Baljit Yadav on money laundering charges connected to an alleged embezzlement of funds meant for supplying sports equipment to schools.

February 4, 2026

Disallowed Surgeon Michael Byrom Named Senior Clinical Safety Lead in Queensland

Dr Michael Byrom, previously limited by NSW medical regulators, is now appointed surgical medical lead at Queensland's Clinical Excellence. After undergoing retraining and meeting all conditions, he joins the state government to improve surgical safety.