This speech is purely fictional: Shrikant Shinde’s ‘disclaimer’ jibe at Rahul Gandhi in LS

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026
Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde on Wednesday expressed strong support for the Union Budget 2026 while launching a sharp attack on the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, over his criticism of the India-US trade agreement.

Speaking during the debate on the Union Budget in the Lok Sabha, Shinde congratulated Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting the Union Budget for the ninth consecutive time.

He said the scale of the Budget reflects the country’s economic progress over the past decade.

“As a youth, I would like to tell today’s generations how far the country has come. In 2013-14, the Union Budget was only Rs 16.5 crore, but now, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it is Rs 53.5 crore. The victory for the third time means three times development,” he said.

Shinde also criticised Opposition MPs for repeated disruptions in the House and took aim at Rahul Gandhi over the controversy surrounding former Army chief General M.M. Naravane’s unpublished memoir.

Mocking Gandhi’s speech during the Budget discussion, Shinde referred to the LoP’s martial arts analogy.

“Even today, I only heard ‘grip, choke’. Is this a discussion on Budget or martial arts? If we were to like a martial arts class, we would surely come to you. However, I think that next time, the LoP comes to deliver a speech, a disclaimer should be flashed, stating, ‘This speech is purely fictional and has no relation to the true events,” Shinde said.

He also cited observations from former Reserve Bank of India Governor D. Subbarao’s autobiography to counter Opposition claims about the state of the economy.

Quoting the former RBI Governor, Shinde said, “Finance Ministry pressurised RBI to soften interest rates and project an overly optimistic economic view.”

He alleged that those who are currently questioning the economy had earlier manipulated economic projections.

“The people here today, who were claiming that the economy is under threat, used to do this to manipulate the picture of economic growth,” he said.

Responding strongly to Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on the India-US agreement, Shinde dismissed the criticism and took a dig at the INDIA bloc’s internal cohesion.

“He was saying that the government’s policies lack grip. Along with this, he was also dreaming of the INDIA bloc making a deal with America. See, dreaming is good, but daydreaming is very harmful. Before dealing with America, the INDIA bloc allies should deal amongst themselves,” he said.

He further criticised the Opposition alliance’s political track record.

“Those whose political deal is getting cancelled in every state are talking about international dealings… they should first worry about their home, their country and then the world,” he added.

Continuing his attack on Gandhi, Shinde referred to the LoP’s remarks about choking and claimed that the Congress party has faced repeated electoral setbacks in recent years.

“He (Rahul Gandhi) was also talking about choking. People have choked his party in the past 12 years,” he said, adding that Congress has lost elections 96 times during this period.

Countering Gandhi’s claim that India’s textile sector would suffer under the trade arrangement, Shinde asserted that the sector is performing strongly on the global stage.

“They (Opposition) say, we have sold Bharat Mata, and Rijiju said that no one has the courage to sell India. However, it is worth noting that during their time (UPA tenure), who defied Bharat Mata,” he said, citing Aksai Chin and Katchatheevu island as examples.

Shinde also criticised Gandhi’s claim that the United States views India and Pakistan on equal footing. Referring to recent remarks by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Shinde said the statement highlighted Pakistan’s position in global geopolitics.

He quoted Asif’s remark that the “US used Pakistan as a piece of toilet paper and threw it away.”

“This is the level of Pakistan. However, some people try to defame India, while outside the country as well as in this House,” Shinde said.

The Shiv Sena leader praised the Budget, describing it as a representation of a “New India” where emphasis is being laid on education, healthcare and employment generation.(Agency)

Budget is ‘Sarva Mangalkari’: Anurag Thakur hits out at Rahul Gandhi

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026
BJP MP Anurag Thakur on Wednesday praised the Modi government for the Union Budget 2026-27, calling it a ‘Sarva Mangalkari’ and ‘Sarvjan Hitay Sarvjan Sukhaye’ budget aimed at inclusive growth and national progress.

Participating in the budget discussion in the Lok Sabha, Thakur said the budget reflects the continuation of what he described as a “12-year reform express” that has moved India from “policy paralysis to policy performance”, from “leakage to delivery”, from “megabytes to gigabytes”, from “megawatts to gigawatts”, and from “corruption to confidence”.

Taking a swipe at the Congress party and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Thakur said, “Sir (Rahul Gandhi) was talking about the grip. He showed his shortcomings. During their tenure, they did so much corruption that they brought India’s economy to a trembling position.”

He said that after the Modi government came to power, India became the world’s fourth-largest economy.

Referring to Rahul Gandhi’s remarks about Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Thakur said, “He was talking about the smile of Nirmala ji. Under the Modi government, there have been such decisions… Look at women’s empowerment — there is a woman President and a woman Finance Minister.”

Thakur congratulated Sitharaman for presenting the Union Budget for the ninth time. He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving him the opportunity to speak in the House.

“I want to congratulate Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting the Union Budget for the ninth time. Not only a budget, but she has given a reason to smile for 140 crore people,” he said.

Highlighting the role of women, he said, “The Finance Minister is a woman. It is the blessing of God on women as they take care of the kitchen, save and take care of the family. Our women are skilled at the ‘ease of managing the budget’.”

Thakur said there are three main responsibilities — knowledge, power and money — and women have proven their capability in handling them.

“Indian women are born economists with rare foresight and natural accounting skills. It will not be wrong to say this,” he said.

Calling the budget “Sarva Mangalkari” and “Sarvjan Hitay Sarvjan Sukhaye”, he said it reflects the government’s intention to include everyone.

“Earlier governments ran schemes; this government runs systems. Earlier, there was file movement; now there is fund movement under the leadership of PM Modi. This budget is a beacon of hope and progress for Viksit Bharat,” he said.

Thakur said the budget is not merely a physical document but a roadmap for inclusive growth, fiscal prudence and national rejuvenation.

“In this budget, everyone is included and cared for. This government’s thought is clear — not to leave anyone behind and not to make anyone sad. There is something for everyone,” he said.

Comparing the UPA and NDA eras, Thakur said earlier budgets were prepared in “drawing rooms”, while the current government prepares budgets based on ground realities.

“Their budget was a political document, but our budget includes everyone and is like a national mission. When we make the budget, we include everyone’s expectations,” he said.

He said the Modi government’s key focus areas remain the poor, women, youth and farmers.

“This is not a budget of mere talk and promises. It is a budget of trust. This budget is like a booster dose for Viksit Bharat,” he added.

Thakur said the government has finalised three duties that form the base of the budget: increasing production, fulfilling expectations of the people, and strengthening public trust.

“To achieve this, it is necessary to maintain structural reforms. We have to make them adaptive and forward-looking,” he said.

He further outlined priorities such as making the financial sector more robust and integrating Artificial Intelligence with the economy and financial governance.

Thakur said the budget carries an “A to G reform express” towards a Viksit Bharat. Recalling 2014, he said questions were raised about whether reforms would truly come and whether the government would be anti-corruption. “The answer was yes. The Modi government did all the work. The Modi government has delivered a corruption-free government,” he said.

He also claimed that 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty. “Modi hai to mumkin hai,” he added.(Agency)

‘One of the craziest games ever’: SA vs AFG double super-over thriller leaves cricket greats in awe

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026
In what can only be described as the greatest T20I, South Africa survived a breathtaking Afghanistan challenge in a double super over thriller at the Narendra Modi Stadium, and former cricketers shared their thoughts on the game after the Proteas clinched a dramatic victory after two pulsating super overs.

Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa wrote on X, “Has to be one of the craziest games I ever watched in a T20 World Cup. Feel for Gurbaz who stood tall for Afghanistan!! SA hold their nerves under pressure which was great to watch!! BLOODY BRILLIANT FOR CRICKET!!”

Former South African pacer Dale Steyn, who was also commentating during the game, reacted, “THAT WAS INCREDIBLE!!!!”

Former India player Irfan Pathan, meanwhile, tweeted, “Ohhhhh Afghanistan… so near, yet still so far.”

Sreevats Goswami penned, “Stand up and applaud. A cricket match that we will remember for ages !! Unreal scenes, Absolute cinema !! Both teams deserve to win but South Africa finally getting across the line. Well done Afghanistan.”

Proteas legend Faf du Plessis summed it up simply, writing, “What a game …!! SAvsAFG”

“As a neutral, was this one of the best matches you have ever watched?? My heart rate was sky hight for the last hour,” Tabraiz Shamsi posted on X. During the match, he shared, “What on earth is going on in Ahmedabad. My worrrrrrd this is a crazy game.”

Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan opted to field first in a must-win Group D clash. Early strikes from Fazalhaq Farooqi, who dismissed South Africa captain Aiden Markram, suggested a tight contest. However, Quinton de Kock (59 off 41) and Ryan Rickleton (61 off 28) put the Proteas in control with a devastating 116-run partnership. Cameos from Dewald Brevis (23) and David Miller (20 not out) helped South Africa reach a competitive 187/6.

Chasing, Rahmanullah Gurbaz led Afghanistan with a 26-ball fifty, including seven sixes. Despite three quick wickets, Afghanistan kept the scoring rate up through Azmatullah Omarzai (22) and Rashid Khan (20). The match went down to the final over, and a crucial run out brought Afghanistan level at 187, forcing a super over.

In the first super over, Afghanistan batted first, posting 17 runs with Azmatullah and Gurbaz producing some exquisite hitting. South Africa’s reply, led by Brevis and Stubbs, matched the total to force a second super over.

In the second super over, Stubbs and Miller set a daunting target of 23. Afghanistan’s chase saw Gurbaz hit three consecutive sixes, bringing the equation down to four off the final delivery. But Keshav Maharaj held his nerve to dismiss Gurbaz and secure a historic win for South Africa.

The encounter will be remembered as one of the greatest T20 matches in World Cup history, featuring breathtaking hitting, nerve-wracking tension, and a showcase of skill and resilience from both sides.(Agency)

NHRC takes suo moto cognisance of Meghalaya coal mine tragedy

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report stating that 18 workers died following a blast at an illegal coal mine in the Thangskai area of East Jaintia Hills district in Meghalaya.

The incident reportedly occurred on February 5, and several other workers are feared trapped at unspecified depths inside the mine.

Observing that the contents of the news report, if true, raise serious issues of violation of human rights of the victims, the NHRC has issued notices to the Meghalaya’s Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, seeking a detailed report within two weeks.

The NHRC has said that the report is expected to include the status of the ongoing rescue operation, compensation provided to the aggrieved families, progress of the police investigation, and the steps taken or proposed by the authorities to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

Meanwhile, taking a stern view of the continued operation of illegal coal mines in the state, the Meghalaya High Court has ordered immediate arrests in connection with the deadly explosion.

A division bench of Justices H.S. Thangkhiew and W. Diengdoh took suo motu cognisance of media reports relating to the blast and expressed serious concern that illegal mining activities were still being carried out despite an earlier fatal incident reported on January 14 this year.

Observing that repeated tragedies point to grave administrative lapses, the Meghalaya High Court directed the district administration and police to act without delay.

It ordered the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of East Jaintia Hills to identify and arrest the mine owners, operators and all those involved in the alleged illegal mining operations.

It also directed authorities to seize all equipment, documents and other incriminating materials connected with the mining activity.

Stressing the need for urgent relief measures, the Meghalaya High Court directed the district administration to ensure that all affected persons, including the injured, are provided immediate medical assistance and necessary support.

It also sought an explanation on how such prohibited activities were allowed to persist despite previous incidents and existing legal restrictions, cautioning that stringent directions would follow if the authorities failed to demonstrate concrete and effective action.

Earlier, the Chief Minister said the Meghalaya government has ordered a thorough inquiry into the incident and made it clear that accountability would be enforced.

“The Government of Meghalaya has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. Accountability will be fixed, and those responsible will face strict legal action,” Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said.(Agency)

Vande Mataram guidelines in nation’s interest, says former Babri Masjid litigant Iqbal Ansari

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026
Former Babri Masjid litigant Iqbal Ansari on Wednesday welcomed the Union Home Ministry’s fresh guidelines mandating the rendition of all six stanzas of ‘Vande Mataram’ at designated government functions and in schools, saying the move was in the interest of the nation and should not be opposed.

Speaking to IANS, Ansari said, “It is a good thing. Everyone should say ‘Vande Mataram’. We also say it. There is nothing wrong in it. Some people try to find fault in everything.”

He added that the song had been part of the curriculum since primary school. “We have studied from primary to high school and intermediate, and it was taught from the primary level itself. Now the government has made it mandatory, which is a very good step. Everyone should recite ‘Vande Mataram’. There should be no discrimination in this. Along with education, it is also very important. People have been reciting it earlier as well, and they will continue to do so,” he said.

Responding to those opposing the proposal, Ansari remarked that a few individuals tend to object whenever something good is done.

The new rules state that when both the national song and the national anthem are performed at the same event, ‘Vande Mataram’ must precede ‘Jana Gana Mana’. The Ministry has also clarified that those present are required to stand to attention during the rendition of the national song. However, this requirement will not apply in cinema halls when the song is played as part of a film or documentary.

Until now, ‘Vande Mataram’ did not have a clearly defined national protocol, unlike the national anthem, which is governed by formal rules. The Centre said the move aims to remove what it described as an artificial distinction between “acceptable” and “excluded” verses and to treat the song as a complete composition as originally written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee.

The guidelines come amid the Narendra Modi government’s year-long programme marking 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’ and follow an extended parliamentary debate on its usage.(Agency)

Bihar: Rabri Devi leads RJD protest amid row with CM Nitish Kumar

Patna, Feb 11, 2026
Political tensions escalated in Bihar on Wednesday as several Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Members of the Legislative Council (MLCs), led by Leader of the Opposition Rabri Devi, staged a protest against the Nitish Kumar-led government outside the Bihar Legislative Council.

The protesting RJD MLCs gathered at the entrance of the Council holding posters bearing slogans accusing the Chief Minister of intimidating opposition members and running a corrupt administration.

The posters read: “Chief Minister, come to your senses (Chief Minister hosh mein aao). Stop threatening MLAs. Government of corrupt people, come to your senses.”

The protest followed a heated exchange between Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Rabri Devi in the Bihar Legislative Council earlier this week.

During the exchange, Nitish Kumar allegedly referred to Rabri Devi as a “girl”, a remark that the RJD termed derogatory and insulting towards women.

The comment triggered sharp reactions from the opposition, with Rabri Devi’s son and Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, strongly criticising the Chief Minister.

Tensions in the Legislative Council have been simmering since Monday, with repeated confrontations between members of the ruling alliance and the opposition.

A day before the protest, a verbal altercation reportedly took place between RJD MLC Sunil Kumar and Minister Ashok Choudhary, during which allegations of abusive language were also levelled.

Senior RJD leader and Maner MLA Bhai Virendra further intensified the political rhetoric on Wednesday by launching a scathing attack on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

He alleged that the Chief Minister’s mental condition was not sound and claimed that those around him were failing to provide proper guidance.

In a controversial remark, Bhai Virendra sarcastically said that the Chief Minister should be given medication and brought back to health, further heating up the political atmosphere.

Responding to the controversy, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha attempted to downplay the incident, stating that Nitish Kumar and Rabri Devi share a brother-in-law–sister-in-law relationship.

He said it was inappropriate to misrepresent the Chief Minister’s sentiments and politicise the issue.

The developments have intensified political debate in Bihar, with both the ruling alliance and the opposition locked in sharp exchanges inside as well as outside the legislature.(Agency)

Deve Gowda backs Budget; calls for focus on jobs, farmers, inclusive growth

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026
Former Prime Minister and JD(S) MP H.D. Deve Gowda expressed support for the Union Budget 2026-27 during a discussion in the Rajya Sabha. He praised its overall direction while calling for greater emphasis on employment, inclusive growth and regional priorities.

Deve Gowda appreciated the budget’s focus on economic reforms, tax simplification and structural changes intended to sustain growth in the face of global challenges.

He, however, cautioned that growth by itself is not enough unless employment becomes the central concern of policy.

The former PM pointed out that manufacturing and MSMEs can generate substantial jobs only when backed by strong skilling initiatives, local supporting ecosystems, affordable credit and predictable regulations.

He asked whether success should be judged merely by investment announcements or by the actual number of dignified jobs created for young people, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.

Regarding taxation, he welcomed efforts to simplify the system but stressed that taxpayers’ confidence is equally vital. He said any changes that affect cash flow or previously settled matters must come with proper safeguards so that honest taxpayers feel secure rather than worried.

Deve Gowda also urged for more attention to India’s future beyond the national capital and major corridors.

He argued that real progress will take shape in cities and districts across the country.

He called for stronger measures in urban governance, water security, climate resilience and balanced regional development to ensure equitable advancement.

In a specific suggestion to help farmers, he proposed the creation of a national board for jackfruit, tamarind and jamun. He noted that these crops are resilient, need less water, grow well under varying conditions and face rising market demand.

A dedicated board, he said, could encourage wider cultivation, improve value addition and raise farmers’ incomes in regions facing water scarcity.

In his closing remarks, the veteran JD(S) said that ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ is not merely a slogan but a serious responsibility. It requires openness to criticism, readiness to correct course when needed, and a firm commitment to growth that is inclusive, sustainable and just.

He observed that India has the talent, enterprise and ambition required to lead the world.

The former PM expressed hope that this budget would be remembered not only for its financial figures but for the wisdom shown in building an economy that remains strong today while securing a better tomorrow.(Agency)

Trade deal will increase India’s share in US plastics market: Industry

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026
The India-US trade deal has brought a major business opportunity for domestic plastic exporters, which will help the country increase its share in the US plastics market, according to industry leaders.

Speaking to IANS, Arvind Goenka, Managing Director (MD) of RMG Polymers India Limited, said, “The India-US trade deal will open up a large US market for domestic plastic exporters.”

He further said that the US imports plastics annually are worth around $75 billion. Currently, India’s plastic exports to the US are about $2.2 billion.

“Therefore, this agreement is a golden opportunity for Indian companies to increase exports. Our plastic exports to the US could double in the next few years,” he mentioned.

He further added that the US is also a major buyer of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). If the US purchases plastic and PVC products from India in large quantities, these goods will be exported to other countries as well. This will give Indian products a new identity in the global market, said Goenka.

According to his, this agreement will not only prove beneficial for the plastic industry but will also help establish India as a strong and reliable supplier.

He further stated that the US economy is worth $30 trillion and its population is approximately 340 million.

Consequently, due to higher incomes, there is a high demand for high-quality products. When demand for high-quality products increases in the US, similar products will be manufactured in India, which will then be sold in India, benefiting the general public.

According to Goenka, India-US trade will also increase the country’s exports to other countries.

He cited the example that whenever a product is exported to the US, its acceptance automatically increases in countries like the Gulf, Europe and Russia. Therefore, as trade with the US increases, India will also benefit from trade with other countries.(Agency)

Shahid Kapoor reveals he once etched his crush’s name on his arm using a compass

Mumbai, Feb 11, 2026
The latest episode of Netflix’s “The Great Indian Kapil Show” is going to be full of romance, nazakat, and non-stop nok-jhok as the team of the forthcoming romantic entertainer “O Romeo” – Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary, Farida Jalal, and Director Vishal graced the set.

During the episode, host Kapil Sharma casually asked Shahid if, following his marriage to Mira Rajput, the DMs still find their way to him.

Reacting to this with a grin, he said, “Bachon ki mummy ko pata chal jaata hai yaar, (the mother of my children comes to know)”.

Shahid further recalled his first crush and revealed how he once wrote her name on his hand using a compass. However, it turned septic later, proving once and for all that love literally hurts.

When the leading lady Triptii was asked about her college love-letter era, she shared, “Likha kabhi nahi… par padha bohot saare, (I did not write any, but have read many)”.

Not sparing Avinash either, Kapil said to him, “career ke peeche bhaag rahe ho ya Triptii ke? (Are you running behind your career or Triptii?)”, leading to blushes and some light laughter.

Further adding to the Valentine drama, actor Kiku Sharda arrived on the set as the hyper-protective saas while Sunil Grover joined him as an overly emotional bahu, bringing some daily soap twist to romance.

Next, the stage suddenly turned into a TGIKS News Debate mode, with Sunil’s fiery avatar pulling the cast and Mastiverse crew into a hilarious prime-time love showdown.

Made under the direction of Vishal Bhardwaj and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, “O’Romeo” is believed to be inspired by Hussain Zaidi’s novel “Mafia Queens of Mumbai”.

Along with Shahid, Triptii, and Avinash, the project will also feature Nana Patekar, Disha Patani, Farida Jalal, and Tamannaah Bhatia in crucial roles.

“O’Romeo” is slated for a theatrical release on February 13.(Agency)

T20 WC: ‘I don’t see Washington Sundar playing in Delhi,’ says Bangar ahead of Namibia clash

New Delhi, Feb 11, 2026
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes Washington Sundar is unlikely to feature in India’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 fixture against Namibia in Delhi, even though the all-rounder has regained fitness.

India opened their campaign with a 29-run victory over the USA, but the batting unit endured a few nervy moments despite securing the win. As the team prepares for its next group stage encounter, attention has turned to the possible composition of the playing XI, particularly with Sundar back in the mix.

The off-spin bowling all-rounder, who has been recovering from a side strain and rib injury, participated in fielding drills during Tuesday’s practice session and later bowled to Tilak Varma alongside Kuldeep Yadav. He was also seen engaged in extended discussions with head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar as the team management assessed his match readiness.

“It’s great news that Washington Sundar is going to join the team, because the Indian management has been patient with him and has a lot of confidence in his abilities.

The fact that they persisted with him in the squad despite his unavailability at the start of the tournament shows they want to maintain a similar team combination. If, say for instance, a spin-bowling all-rounder is required, Washington Sundar can certainly come in.

But I don’t see him playing in Delhi. I certainly see Jasprit Bumrah making it to the playing eleven, with the in-form Mohammed Siraj the one likely to miss out,” Bangar told JioStar while speaking on Sundar’s improved fitness and possible changes in the playing XI.

Bangar also advised India’s batters to remain confident in their approach despite the hiccups against the USA, stressing that their aggressive philosophy has brought consistent success in recent times.

“I don’t think Indian batters should overanalyse what happened at Wankhede against the USA, because the approach this Indian batting line-up plays with nowadays in T20 cricket is obviously fraught with risk. On days like that, when a couple of wickets fall, and you still want to keep going hard, you are bound to lose wickets in clusters.

If there is one learning, it is to maybe slow down slightly, but not have too much of a doubt in your approach, because that fearless style has given you a lot of success. Keep backing your abilities and keep playing the way this Indian batting unit has approached T20 cricket over the last 18 months or so,” he said.

Highlighting the balance within the batting order, Bangar pointed to the blend of composure and attacking intent among key players.

“When I look at this Indian batting line-up, it has a great mix of maturity as well as fearlessness. Now, in terms of maturity, you have players who can adjust to the needs of the situation. Tilak Varma bats in that fashion, as do Surya and Hardik.

So, if India find themselves in a similar position again, the onus may be on one of those three to steady the innings a little bit, while the batters around them continue to play the way they have been playing. That is something the team and the batting group might discuss going forward,” he added.

India will look to fine-tune their combinations and build momentum as they continue their campaign in the capital.(Agency)

1...151152153...8,208 Page 152 of 8,208