February 1, 2026

Tax Holiday Till 2047 for Foreign Cloud Firms Using Indian Data Centres Announced in Budget 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a tax holiday until 2047 for foreign companies offering global cloud services through Indian data centres. Other key moves include creation of National Institutes in hospitality and mental health, plus turtle trail development across three states.

February 1, 2026

Moderate 5.3 Earthquake Shakes Southern Iran; UAE Unaffected

A 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck southern Iran early Sunday, causing minor damage but no injuries. The UAE did not feel the tremor and reported no effects.

February 1, 2026

Finance Minister Proposes Restructuring of Power Sector NBFCs in Budget 2026

In Union Budget 2026, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman calls for restructuring Power Finance Corporation and Rural Electrification Corporation to boost credit efficiency in the power sector.

February 1, 2026

Abu Dhabi Imposes Mandatory Digital Pet Registration Starting February 2026

From February 3, 2026, all pet owners in Abu Dhabi must register their cats and dogs through the TAMM platform. Registration is free now, but latecomers face Dh1,000 fines. Vets will check health and add microchips. This new system helps recover lost pets and ensures public safety.

February 1, 2026

Iran to Publish Names of Protest Deaths Amid Calls for Independent Inquiry

Iran will list names of those killed in recent protests. Reformists and experts demand an independent probe, doubting official death toll of 3,117. Tens of thousands remain detained as security forces hunt protest leaders.

February 1, 2026

Jammu and Kashmir EOW Files Chargesheet in ₹2.35 Crore Phone Scam Case After 8 Years

Jammu and Kashmir’s Economic Offences Wing filed a chargesheet against two men in a ₹2.35 crore phone scam case. The fraud began with a fake prize call in 2017. The accused tricked the victim into paying multiple sums for customs and transfer fees. The chargesheet was filed in the City Munsiff Court with strong evidence.

February 1, 2026

TOI World Desk Delivers Accurate Global News with Privacy Promise

TOI World Desk brings you fresh global news nonstop. Their team works hard for accuracy and deep insights, while protecting your personal data from ad sharing.

February 1, 2026

Dubai Keeps Its Popular Freelance Visa Active Amid Stricter Checks in 2026

Dubai’s freelance visa lets independent professionals live and work legally without an employer. The UAE confirms the program is active with tighter rules to curb misuse.

February 1, 2026

Frontline City Kherson Battles Russian Drones with Nets and Underground Shelters

Kherson, a Ukrainian city near the frontline, faces daily Russian drone attacks. Residents use anti-drone nets and underground shelters to stay safe. Children and families adapt to life under threat.

February 1, 2026

Tokyo Court Orders North Korea to Pay Zainichi Settlers Rs 20 Crore Each for Forced Relocation

A Tokyo court has ruled that North Korea must pay over 20 million yen to four ethnic Korean settlers who were forced to move decades ago. These victims were promised a paradise but faced harsh conditions. Despite the ruling, compensation might be hard to collect.