EPFO to Enable EPF Withdrawals via UPI for Faster Fund Transfers
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to introduce a major digital upgrade by allowing employees to withdraw their provident fund (EPF) claims using the Unified Payment Interface (UPI). This move is part of the Indian government’s broader initiative to enhance digital financial transactions and streamline fund disbursements for millions of subscribers. The feature is expected to launch in the next two to three months as EPFO collaborates with the National Paymen
EPFO to Enable EPF Withdrawals via UPI for Faster Fund Transfers
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to introduce a major digital upgrade by allowing employees to withdraw their provident fund (EPF) claims using the Unified Payment Interface (UPI). This move is part of the Indian government’s broader initiative to enhance digital financial transactions and streamline fund disbursements for millions of subscribers. The feature is expected to launch in the next two to three months as EPFO collaborates with the National Paymen
Supreme Court Rules Gratuity Can Be Forfeited for Moral Turpitude Without Criminal Conviction
The Supreme Court of India has issued a landmark ruling on February 17, 2025, stating that an employee’s gratuity can be forfeited on the grounds of moral turpitude, even in the absence of a criminal conviction. This ruling expands the interpretation of the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, allowing employers to withhold gratuity from employees dismissed for unethical or fraudulent actions.Previously, in a 2018 Supreme Court ruling in the Union of India vs. Ajay Babu case, the court had st
Supreme Court Rules Gratuity Can Be Forfeited for Moral Turpitude Without Criminal Conviction
The Supreme Court of India has issued a landmark ruling on February 17, 2025, stating that an employee’s gratuity can be forfeited on the grounds of moral turpitude, even in the absence of a criminal conviction. This ruling expands the interpretation of the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, allowing employers to withhold gratuity from employees dismissed for unethical or fraudulent actions.Previously, in a 2018 Supreme Court ruling in the Union of India vs. Ajay Babu case, the court had st
Mayawati Accuses Congress of Helping BJP in Delhi Elections, Slams Rahul Gandhi Over INDIA Bloc Comments
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has accused the Congress of acting as the BJP’s "B team" in the recent Delhi Assembly elections, blaming the party for facilitating the BJP’s return to power in the capital after 27 years. In a series of tweets on Friday, she lashed out at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who had earlier criticized her for staying away from the opposition-led INDIA bloc.Mayawati claimed that the Congress’s decision t
Mayawati Accuses Congress of Helping BJP in Delhi Elections, Slams Rahul Gandhi Over INDIA Bloc Comments
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has accused the Congress of acting as the BJP’s "B team" in the recent Delhi Assembly elections, blaming the party for facilitating the BJP’s return to power in the capital after 27 years. In a series of tweets on Friday, she lashed out at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who had earlier criticized her for staying away from the opposition-led INDIA bloc.Mayawati claimed that the Congress’s decision t
Maharashtra Minister Manikrao Kokate Sentenced to Two Years in Jail for Fake Documents Case
Maharashtra Agriculture Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Manikrao Kokate has been sentenced to two years in prison by the Nashik district and sessions court in a 1995 case involving the use of fraudulent documents to obtain government flats under a special housing scheme. In addition to the jail term, he has been fined Rs 50,000. His brother, Sunil Kokate, was also convicted in the same case.The verdict was delivered by Additional Chief Justice
Maharashtra Minister Manikrao Kokate Sentenced to Two Years in Jail for Fake Documents Case
Maharashtra Agriculture Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Manikrao Kokate has been sentenced to two years in prison by the Nashik district and sessions court in a 1995 case involving the use of fraudulent documents to obtain government flats under a special housing scheme. In addition to the jail term, he has been fined Rs 50,000. His brother, Sunil Kokate, was also convicted in the same case.The verdict was delivered by Additional Chief Justice
Divorce, Dating, and Double Standards: Why the Rules Are Different for Women
Finding love is never easy, and for divorced individuals in 2025, the journey remains a challenging one. Despite evolving mindsets and growing conversations around individual happiness, societal acceptance of divorce is still far from ideal. A survey conducted by Cosmo India, covering respondents between the ages of 25 and 44, revealed that 60% of individuals are single simply because they haven’t found the right person. For divorced women, the situation is even tougher, with 38% agreei
Divorce, Dating, and Double Standards: Why the Rules Are Different for Women
Finding love is never easy, and for divorced individuals in 2025, the journey remains a challenging one. Despite evolving mindsets and growing conversations around individual happiness, societal acceptance of divorce is still far from ideal. A survey conducted by Cosmo India, covering respondents between the ages of 25 and 44, revealed that 60% of individuals are single simply because they haven’t found the right person. For divorced women, the situation is even tougher, with 38% agreei
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Full Schedule, Match List, Venues, and India vs Pakistan Clash Details
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is in full swing, bringing together eight of the world’s top cricketing nations for an intense battle. The tournament began with host nation Pakistan facing New Zealand at Karachi’s National Stadium, marking the start of a high-stakes competition. India launched its campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai as part of the hybrid model, where India plays all its matches in the UAE due to security concerns.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Full Schedule, Match List, Venues, and India vs Pakistan Clash Details
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is in full swing, bringing together eight of the world’s top cricketing nations for an intense battle. The tournament began with host nation Pakistan facing New Zealand at Karachi’s National Stadium, marking the start of a high-stakes competition. India launched its campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai as part of the hybrid model, where India plays all its matches in the UAE due to security concerns.
India-Bangladesh Tensions Deepen, Straining Cultural and Diplomatic Ties
The political and diplomatic rift between India and Bangladesh has intensified, leading to significant cultural and economic consequences. The recent exile of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the subsequent destruction of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s house in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi neighborhood have become symbolic of the worsening relations. The house, a key site in Bangladesh’s liberation struggle, was torn down by students, erasing an important part of the nation
India-Bangladesh Tensions Deepen, Straining Cultural and Diplomatic Ties
The political and diplomatic rift between India and Bangladesh has intensified, leading to significant cultural and economic consequences. The recent exile of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the subsequent destruction of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s house in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi neighborhood have become symbolic of the worsening relations. The house, a key site in Bangladesh’s liberation struggle, was torn down by students, erasing an important part of the nation
Telangana Government Grants Early Work Departure for Muslim Employees During Ramzan
The Telangana government has announced a relaxation in work hours for Muslim employees during the holy month of Ramzan. As per an official circular issued by the General Administration Department, Muslim employees working in government departments, public sector units, and educational institutions will be allowed to leave work at 4:00 PM instead of the usual 5:00 PM. The rule will be in effect from March 2, 2025, to March 31, 2025, facilitating employees in fulfil
Telangana Government Grants Early Work Departure for Muslim Employees During Ramzan
The Telangana government has announced a relaxation in work hours for Muslim employees during the holy month of Ramzan. As per an official circular issued by the General Administration Department, Muslim employees working in government departments, public sector units, and educational institutions will be allowed to leave work at 4:00 PM instead of the usual 5:00 PM. The rule will be in effect from March 2, 2025, to March 31, 2025, facilitating employees in fulfil
Gyanesh Kumar Appointed as India's New Chief Election Commissioner Amid Controversy
The Indian government has appointed Gyanesh Kumar as the new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), succeeding Rajiv Kumar. As the seniormost Election Commissioner, he will now be responsible for conducting crucial state elections, including Bihar in 2025 and Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Assam in 2026. His tenure as CEC will last until January 26, 2029, during which he will oversee 20 Assembly elections, the Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections in 2027, and preparati
Gyanesh Kumar Appointed as India's New Chief Election Commissioner Amid Controversy
The Indian government has appointed Gyanesh Kumar as the new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), succeeding Rajiv Kumar. As the seniormost Election Commissioner, he will now be responsible for conducting crucial state elections, including Bihar in 2025 and Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Assam in 2026. His tenure as CEC will last until January 26, 2029, during which he will oversee 20 Assembly elections, the Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections in 2027, and preparati
Champions Trophy 2025: Arshdeep Singh Favored Over Gautam Gambhir’s Protege Harshit Rana in India’s Playing XI
As India gears up for the Champions Trophy 2025, a key selection debate has emerged in the fast-bowling department. Despite Harshit Rana showing promise in the recent ODI series against England, Arshdeep Singh is expected to start alongside Mohammed Shami when India takes on Bangladesh on February 20.The Indian team management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, tested Harshit in all three England ODIs to assess his potential as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement.
Champions Trophy 2025: Arshdeep Singh Favored Over Gautam Gambhir’s Protege Harshit Rana in India’s Playing XI
As India gears up for the Champions Trophy 2025, a key selection debate has emerged in the fast-bowling department. Despite Harshit Rana showing promise in the recent ODI series against England, Arshdeep Singh is expected to start alongside Mohammed Shami when India takes on Bangladesh on February 20.The Indian team management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, tested Harshit in all three England ODIs to assess his potential as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement.
India to Continue Reducing Import Duties, Strengthen Trade Relations – FM Nirmala Sitharaman
India will continue to rationalize import duties and streamline its customs tariff structure, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated during a post-Budget press conference in Mumbai. She emphasized that anti-dumping duties are periodically reviewed to ensure a fair and investor-friendly trade environment. The government’s tariff policy reforms aim to make India an attractive investment hub while ensuring global competitiveness.Addressing concerns about imported inflation amid global
India to Continue Reducing Import Duties, Strengthen Trade Relations – FM Nirmala Sitharaman
India will continue to rationalize import duties and streamline its customs tariff structure, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated during a post-Budget press conference in Mumbai. She emphasized that anti-dumping duties are periodically reviewed to ensure a fair and investor-friendly trade environment. The government’s tariff policy reforms aim to make India an attractive investment hub while ensuring global competitiveness.Addressing concerns about imported inflation amid global
India’s Flag Missing at Karachi Stadium Ahead of Champions Trophy – Sparks Debate
Ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, a video has surfaced showing India’s flag missing from Karachi’s National Stadium, where all other participating nations’ flags are displayed. The video, which has gone viral on social media, has left cricket fans puzzled, raising questions about the exclusion of India’s tricolor. The authenticity of the video, however, is yet to be verified. Speculation suggests that the absence of the Indian flag could be du
India’s Flag Missing at Karachi Stadium Ahead of Champions Trophy – Sparks Debate
Ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, a video has surfaced showing India’s flag missing from Karachi’s National Stadium, where all other participating nations’ flags are displayed. The video, which has gone viral on social media, has left cricket fans puzzled, raising questions about the exclusion of India’s tricolor. The authenticity of the video, however, is yet to be verified. Speculation suggests that the absence of the Indian flag could be du
US Deports 119 Indian Immigrants in Latest Crackdown on Illegal Immigration
In a significant move, the United States has deported 119 Indian immigrants as part of its ongoing crackdown on illegal immigration. The deportees arrived at Amritsar International Airport late on Saturday night, following a similar deportation flight on February 5 that carried 104 individuals. These deportations are part of a broader initiative under the Trump administration's stringent immigration policies, aimed at enforcing tougher regulations on those in the U.S. illegally. The 119 i
US Deports 119 Indian Immigrants in Latest Crackdown on Illegal Immigration
In a significant move, the United States has deported 119 Indian immigrants as part of its ongoing crackdown on illegal immigration. The deportees arrived at Amritsar International Airport late on Saturday night, following a similar deportation flight on February 5 that carried 104 individuals. These deportations are part of a broader initiative under the Trump administration's stringent immigration policies, aimed at enforcing tougher regulations on those in the U.S. illegally. The 119 i
Valentine's Day: Why Talking Finances Before Marriage is Essential
This Valentine’s Day, as prospective brides and grooms prepare to unite their lives, discussing financial goals and aspirations is crucial for setting a solid foundation for a healthy marriage. Honest conversations about money help align values, reduce the chances of future conflicts, and create a framework for long-term financial success. Couples should focus on shared goals such as saving for emergency funds, planning for home buying, setting a budget for yearly expenses, and ad
Valentine's Day: Why Talking Finances Before Marriage is Essential
This Valentine’s Day, as prospective brides and grooms prepare to unite their lives, discussing financial goals and aspirations is crucial for setting a solid foundation for a healthy marriage. Honest conversations about money help align values, reduce the chances of future conflicts, and create a framework for long-term financial success. Couples should focus on shared goals such as saving for emergency funds, planning for home buying, setting a budget for yearly expenses, and ad
38th National Games Closing Ceremony: Amit Shah Talks Olympics 2036 and Uttarakhand's Success
The 38th National Games closed on a high note with Home Minister Amit Shah asserting that India is on track to host a successful Olympics in 2036, signaling a bright future for Indian sports. During the ceremony, which featured key figures such as Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha, Uttarakhand's impressive rise in the medal standings was celebrated. The state jumped from 21st to 7th pla
38th National Games Closing Ceremony: Amit Shah Talks Olympics 2036 and Uttarakhand's Success
The 38th National Games closed on a high note with Home Minister Amit Shah asserting that India is on track to host a successful Olympics in 2036, signaling a bright future for Indian sports. During the ceremony, which featured key figures such as Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha, Uttarakhand's impressive rise in the medal standings was celebrated. The state jumped from 21st to 7th pla
Selection of New Chief Election Commissioner Begins as Rajiv Kumar Retires
Rajiv Kumar’s tenure as Chief Election Commissioner of India, beginning in May 2022, has seen multiple landmark elections, including the 2023 Karnataka and Telangana polls and the 2022 presidential elections. His leadership has faced ongoing scrutiny, with opposition parties alleging bias towards the ruling BJP and raising concerns about the integrity of the election process, particularly regarding Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Despite the criticism, Kumar has defended the election
Selection of New Chief Election Commissioner Begins as Rajiv Kumar Retires
Rajiv Kumar’s tenure as Chief Election Commissioner of India, beginning in May 2022, has seen multiple landmark elections, including the 2023 Karnataka and Telangana polls and the 2022 presidential elections. His leadership has faced ongoing scrutiny, with opposition parties alleging bias towards the ruling BJP and raising concerns about the integrity of the election process, particularly regarding Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Despite the criticism, Kumar has defended the election
India Falls to Japan 0-3 in Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championship Quarterfinals
India’s Loss in the Quarterfinals: India’s campaign in the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championship ended on a disappointing note as they suffered a 0-3 defeat against a second-string Japan team. The Indian squad, despite being the 2023 bronze medalists, struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match. The team fell behind early, losing the mixed doubles match, with Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto showing resilience but ultimately losing 13-21, 21-17, 13-
India Falls to Japan 0-3 in Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championship Quarterfinals
India’s Loss in the Quarterfinals: India’s campaign in the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championship ended on a disappointing note as they suffered a 0-3 defeat against a second-string Japan team. The Indian squad, despite being the 2023 bronze medalists, struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match. The team fell behind early, losing the mixed doubles match, with Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto showing resilience but ultimately losing 13-21, 21-17, 13-
Two Retired Officials Lose Rs. 2.87 Crore to Online Scams
Despite constant warnings from banks, government agencies, and corporates about the growing threat of online scams, many individuals continue to fall victim to these digital frauds. Recently, two retired government officials from Noida were scammed out of Rs. 2.87 crore, one through a digital arrest scam and the other via a forex trading fraud. Authorities have now launched criminal investigations into both incidents, hoping to curb the increasing number of cyberc
Two Retired Officials Lose Rs. 2.87 Crore to Online Scams
Despite constant warnings from banks, government agencies, and corporates about the growing threat of online scams, many individuals continue to fall victim to these digital frauds. Recently, two retired government officials from Noida were scammed out of Rs. 2.87 crore, one through a digital arrest scam and the other via a forex trading fraud. Authorities have now launched criminal investigations into both incidents, hoping to curb the increasing number of cyberc
JioHotstar Launched: A New OTT Platform with Exclusive Content and Subscription Plans
JioHotstar’s Launch and Content Offering: JioHotstar is a new OTT platform created from the merger of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. The platform will feature content in 10 languages, including movies, TV shows, and original programming from both merging companies. It will also aggregate content from international studios like NBCUniversal Peacock, Warner Bros., HBO, and Paramount, offering something unique that no other streaming
JioHotstar Launched: A New OTT Platform with Exclusive Content and Subscription Plans
JioHotstar’s Launch and Content Offering: JioHotstar is a new OTT platform created from the merger of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. The platform will feature content in 10 languages, including movies, TV shows, and original programming from both merging companies. It will also aggregate content from international studios like NBCUniversal Peacock, Warner Bros., HBO, and Paramount, offering something unique that no other streaming
Strengthening Ties: PM Modi Lands in Washington for Bilateral Talks with Trump
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Joint Base Andrews airbase in Maryland, United States, on Wednesday (local time) for a two-day visit at the invitation of President Donald Trump. This visit comes at a crucial time in international affairs, as both nations are looking to strengthen ties and address shared challenges on the global stage. The arrival at a key military and administrative facility underscores the significance of the trip, symbolizing not only a routine diplomatic vis
Strengthening Ties: PM Modi Lands in Washington for Bilateral Talks with Trump
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Joint Base Andrews airbase in Maryland, United States, on Wednesday (local time) for a two-day visit at the invitation of President Donald Trump. This visit comes at a crucial time in international affairs, as both nations are looking to strengthen ties and address shared challenges on the global stage. The arrival at a key military and administrative facility underscores the significance of the trip, symbolizing not only a routine diplomatic vis









