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Good News For Govt Staff? 8th Pay Commission May Bring Bigger Pay Hike

The proposed 8th Pay Commission has raised strong expectations of a significant pay and pension increase for central government employees and pensioners, potentially offering a notable boost to household incomes and consumption. With approximately 11.2 million beneficiaries, experts say the revised pay structure could provide meaningful uplift compared with the relatively modest gains seen under the 7th Pay Commission, which delivered an effective salary increase of about 14% excluding allowances. As discussions intensify, employees and unions are closely watching for details on fitment factors, arrears and the overall financial impact of the recommendations. Bigger Pay Hikes On The Table? Under the 7th Pay Commission, the minimum basic salary was raised to Rs 18,000 from Rs 15,750, resulting in a roughly 14.3% rise in basic pay in the first year after allowances were added. Expectations for the 8th Pay Commission are far higher, with some industry reports suggesting that a fitment factor significantly above the previous level could lead to an overall increase of up to 30-34% in salaries and pensions for many employees. Proposals from employee organisations have also called for even larger adjustments. For example, some groups are pushing for a fitment factor of up to 3.25, which would substantially raise minimum basic salaries and address long-standing concerns over inflation and cost of living pressures. If the revised pay structure is implemented retrospectively from 1 January 2026, as has been widely reported, employees and pensioners may also be eligible for arrears covering the period between then and the effective roll-out of the new scales. Economic & Fiscal Implications While a more generous pay revision would directly benefit millions of workers and pensioners, it would also have broader implications for the Indian economy. A significant increase in disposable income could stimulate consumer spending and demand, potentially supporting growth in the face of slowing consumption. At the same time, governments at both central and state levels would need to manage the fiscal impact of higher salary and pension bills. States such as Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, which traditionally adopt central pay commission recommendations promptly, are expected to follow suit, extending the impact across a wider section of public servants. Although the 8th Pay Commission’s recommendations are still awaited and the final details have yet to be formalised, expectations of a bigger pay hike have generated significant anticipation among government employees and pensioners alike.

Ranji Trophy: Pollution disrupts play, players forced to wear masks

Dust and pollution from a nearby construction site disrupted play during a Ranji Trophy match at Mumbai's BKC ground. Players, including Sarfaraz Khan and Musheer Khan, were forced to wear masks for about 30 minutes due to the unhealthy air quality. The Mumbai team management has requested the MCA to address the issue with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board.

EU Moves To Designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard As Terror Outfit

Amid rising tensions with the United States, the European Union has taken a significant step against Iran by moving to place the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on its list of terrorist organisations, alongside groups such as al-Qaeda, Islamic State and Hamas. European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas said the IRGC had killed 6,373 people during protests in Iran, underscoring the rationale behind the move. “If you act like a terrorist, you should be treated like a terrorist,” she said on Thursday. Approval Of All 27 Member States Required For the designation to take effect, the decision must receive the backing of all 27 EU member countries. While the move had earlier faced resistance, particularly from France, the diplomatic landscape has shifted. France had previously expressed concern that listing the IRGC as a terrorist organisation could endanger French nationals in Iran and shut down avenues for dialogue. However, Paris has now reversed its position. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said that “the intolerable repression of peaceful protests in Iran requires a response,” adding, “There can be no forgiveness for crimes.” The French President’s office has also confirmed its support. Countries including Italy, Spain and Germany were already in favour of the designation. Why The IRGC Matters To Iran The IRGC is Iran’s most powerful military institution. Established in 1979 by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini to protect the Islamic Revolution, it functions independently of Iran’s regular armed forces and reports directly to the Supreme Leader. Over the decades, the IRGC has expanded its influence far beyond the military sphere, playing a central role in Iran’s political system, economy and foreign policy. The United States, Canada and Australia have already designated the IRGC as a terrorist organisation.

'Pressure isn't an excuse': Chahal goes hard at Samson after repeated failures

Yuzvendra Chahal has voiced strong opinions on Sanju Samson's batting form. He believes pressure is not a valid reason for Samson's consistent failures. Chahal highlighted that Samson has had multiple chances in the ongoing series. He noted that Ishan Kishan is performing well and waiting for an opportunity. Chahal suggested team management consider replacing Samson if struggles continue.

ABP Live Your Money Your Life | Home Loan Prepayment Vs Investing: What Works Better For You

As incomes stabilise and home loans move past the initial adjustment phase, many borrowers begin to reassess how to use surplus cash. Should the extra money go towards prepaying the loan, or is it better invested elsewhere? There is no single right answer. The decision depends on several aspects like interest rates, potential returns, tax treatment, liquidity needs, and comfort with debt. In 2026, with a sharper focus on long-term financial stability, this choice calls for deliberate planning rather than quick decisions.   Why prepayment offers comfort and clarity Prepaying a home loan offers clear and immediate advantages. It lowers the outstanding principal, cuts overall interest costs, and can shorten the loan tenure, especially when done in the early years when interest dominates EMIs. Beyond the financial impact, it also brings peace of mind. A reduced debt burden creates predictable cash flows and a sense of security, which many borrowers value more than uncertain market returns.   When investing, surplus cash can make sense Investing surplus funds can make sense when expected post-tax returns exceed the home loan interest rate. Over time, diversified equity investments have tended to grow faster than borrowing costs, with early investing allowing compounding to work longer. For borrowers with stable income, sufficient emergency savings, and a long-term horizon, this approach can support goals like retirement or education without weakening overall financial stability.   Tax benefits and the real cost of the loan Tax treatment can tilt the decision either way. Under the old tax regime, home loan interest deductions reduce the effective cost of borrowing, which can make investing more attractive than aggressive prepayment. Under the new tax regime, where these benefits are largely unavailable, prepaying the loan often becomes a more compelling option for many borrowers.   Liquidity and risk tolerance matter Prepayment locks money into an illiquid asset, making it hard to access when needed. Investments, especially liquid ones, offer greater flexibility during emergencies or income disruptions. This makes liquidity an important factor. Borrowers should secure emergency funds and insurance cover before prepaying. Risk comfort also matters, as some may prefer the certainty of lower debt over market-linked returns.   Why a blended approach often works best For many borrowers, the choice does not have to be binary. A balanced approach can offer the benefits of both strategies. Making partial prepayments in the early years while continuing regular investments helps reduce interest costs without derailing long-term wealth creation. Periodic reviews allow this balance to be adjusted as income levels, interest rates, and financial goals evolve.  There is no single approach that works for every borrower. Prepayment brings certainty and reduces interest costs, while investing supports long-term growth and liquidity. The right balance depends on factors such as loan tenure, tax regime, investment horizon, and comfort with debt. When this decision is guided by an overall financial plan rather than a search for a universal answer, it is more likely to deliver steady and sustainable outcomes.  (The author is Associate Analyst, Communications, BankBazaar.com. This article has been published as part of a special arrangement with BankBazaar)

Economic Survey Flags Rupee Undervaluation Even As Growth, Inflation Stay Supportive

The value of the rupee, which has slipped to the 92 per dollar mark, does not accurately reflect India's stellar economic fundamentals, the Economic Survey said on Thursday. "In other words, the rupee, therefore, is punching below its weight," it said, adding investor reluctance to commit funds to India warrants examination at a time when inflation is under control and growth outlook is favourable. India depends on foreign capital flows to maintain a healthy balance of payments. "The Indian rupee underperformed in 2025. India runs a trade deficit in goods. Its net trade surplus in services and remittances is not enough to offset it... When they run drier, rupee stability becomes a casualty," said the pre-Budget document tabled in Parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The rupee hit an all-time low of 92.00 against the American currency in early trade on Thursday, weighed down by steady dollar demand and a cautious global mood. On Wednesday, the rupee settled 31 paise down, revisiting its lowest-ever closing level of 91.99 against the greenback. On January 23, the rupee hit an all-time intraday low of 92 against the US dollar. The Survey observed that the growth is good; outlook remains favourable; inflation is contained; rainfall and agricultural prospects are supportive; external liabilities are low; banks are healthy; liquidity conditions are comfortable; credit growth is respectable; corporate balance sheets are strong; and the overall flow of funds to the commercial sector is robust. "Policy dynamism and purposeful governance reinforce this backdrop," said the document authored by a team led by CEA V Anantha Nageswaran. The rupee's valuation does not accurately reflect India's stellar economic fundamentals, it said. "Of course, it does not hurt to have an undervalued rupee in these times, as it offsets to some extent the impact of higher American tariffs on Indian goods, and there is no threat of higher inflation from higher-priced crude oil imports now. "However, it does cause investors to pause," the survey said. It has cited Australia-based Lowy Institute's Power Gap Index, which suggests that India is operating below its full strategic potential. India's power gap score is – 4.0, the lowest in Asia, excluding Russia and North Korea. India has its work cut out. The Survey further said India is a country of 145 crore people aspiring to become a richer country within a generation, within a democratic framework. India's size and democracy preclude the possibility of templates to emulate. "With the global dominant power rethinking its economic and other commitments and priorities, throwing global trade into a welter of uncertainty and global frictions mounting and faultlines widening, India's economic ambitions are confronting powerful global headwinds," it said. Those same forces can be turned into tailwinds if the State, the private sector, and households are willing to align, adapt, and commit to the scale of effort that the moment demands. The task will be neither simple nor comfortable -- but it is unavoidable, the 687-page document said.  (Disclaimer: This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

Mocked & Humiliated: Woman Films Ex-Schoolmate Working As Delivery Rider In Patna | Watch

A pizza delivery worker was publicly humiliated after running into a former school friend, who filmed him on the street and mocked his job. In the now widely shared clip, the woman reminds him of his school days, saying he once inspired classmates, before ridiculing him for delivering pizzas. She also threatens to circulate the video among their old friends. The incident has triggered widespread anger online, with many calling out the casual cruelty and highlighting the harsh realities faced by young men forced to prioritise survival over dreams. A pizza delivery boy met his school-time female friend on the road…She started recording and mocked him: "You used to motivate everyone in school… and now you're delivering pizza?"Then she said she’ll send the video to other friends too.She laughed… but didn’t think for a… pic.twitter.com/hkSzH04O6x — Saffron Chargers (@SaffronChargers) January 29, 2026 Filmed & Mocked According to accounts circulating on social media, the woman began recording as soon as she recognised him. She questioned his career path, comparing his current work with his earlier ambitions, and laughed while suggesting she would send the footage to others from their school. The young man reportedly remained silent throughout the encounter. Users across platforms have condemned the act, saying it reflects a troubling lack of empathy towards those navigating financial hardship. Many pointed out that not everyone has the privilege to pursue passion projects, especially when family responsibilities and economic pressures take over. Honest Work Vs Public Humiliation The episode has reignited debate about dignity of labour and the social stigma attached to certain jobs. Commentators stressed that delivering food is honest employment and should never be a source of shame. Others highlighted how young men often shoulder expectations to provide, even at the cost of personal aspirations. “Responsibilities arrive before success for many,” one user wrote. “She failed as a woman.” Mental health advocates also weighed in, warning that public shaming can leave lasting psychological scars, particularly when amplified online. As messages of support pour in, many are urging greater kindness and respect for people doing their best under difficult circumstances.

What India Inc Can Learn From Pharma’s TRIPS Journey As Global Tariffs Rise: Economic Survey

India Inc can draw inspiration from the domestic pharma industry, which transformed itself in the aftermath of the TRIPS Agreement in 1995, to deal with an unpredictable global tariff regime, according to the Economic Survey 2025-26. The pharmaceutical sector, which had expanded under the process-patent regime of the 1970 Patent Act, faced a sudden change in its operating environment when the TRIPS-compliant product-patent regime took effect in 1995. This shift challenged the very foundation of India's competitive advantage, reverse engineering, and cost-efficient process innovation. However, the manner in which the sector responded offers a compelling template for industries currently confronting rising external trade barriers, especially tariff escalations in major markets, the Economic Survey stated. The new regime enabled Indian firms to legally replicate patented drugs by developing alternative production pathways, thereby creating one of the most affordable pharmaceutical ecosystems in the world. The earliest and most important response to the TRIPS shock was a clear shift toward developing internal capabilities and the Indian pharmaceutical companies moved beyond simple process improvements, the Economic Survey stated. They began investing heavily in formulation science, transitioning R&D from reverse-engineering existing drugs to creating new chemical entities, cost-efficient Novel Drug Delivery Systems, and complex generics that meet global regulatory standards, it stated. Industry-wide R&D spending grew from Rs 1,250 million in FY94 to nearly Rs 209.8 billion by FY19, it added. This expanded scientific and technological foundation fostered innovation-led competitiveness. By strengthening internal capabilities early on, Indian firms positioned themselves to enter and grow in regulated export markets. This is a strategic lesson for modern sectors now facing tariff-driven external shocks: competitiveness must be developed before it is demanded, the Survey stated. "In the current situation of an unpredictable global tariff regime, India Inc can draw inspiration from the pharmaceutical sector to capitalise on this situation to its advantage. "India Inc must focus on capability building through strong R&D, Market diversification to reduce dependence on a single market and build resilience, and partnership-driven models such as co-development, licensing, and contract manufacturing to help reduce risk,” the Economic Survey stated. Additionally, strategic consolidation is necessary to expand in capital- and compliance-heavy environments, it added. Elaborating further, the Economic Survey pointed out that the second primary strategic response the pharma industry undertook was “rapid market diversification”. As TRIPS-era constraints narrowed domestic opportunities, Indian pharmaceutical firms pivoted outward, targeting regulated markets such as the US and Europe by filing large-scale Drug Master Files (DMFs) for APIs and Abbreviated New Drug Applications for generics. India’s global share of DMF filings rose sharply from 14.5 per cent in CY 2000 to 48.7 per cent by CY 2007, with 331 active DMF filings by India in 2019. These filings helped the pharmaceutical industry penetrate these markets despite the restrictions of the TRIPS agreement. This demonstrated a core structural insight: over-reliance on a single market magnifies vulnerability, while multi-market exposure insulates firms from tariff shocks. Recognising the need for distribution access and regulatory footholds, Indian firms undertook targeted acquisitions abroad. These moves enabled a local presence in developed markets, improved compliance, and accelerated the adoption of technology. By the early 2010s, India had become the world’s largest supplier of affordable generics, responsible for nearly 20 per cent of global supply, the Economic Survey stated. Export markets diversified, regulatory credibility deepened, and the innovation pipeline expanded, it added. “What began as an existential threat evolved into a catalyst for global leadership. This strategic realignment translated into a substantial expansion of India’s pharmaceutical exports. Between FY01 and FY25, pharmaceutical exports increased from USD 1.9 billion to USD 30.5 billion in FY25, representing a nearly 16-fold rise driven by market diversification, regulatory alignment, and enhancements in capability,” it stated.  (Disclaimer: This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

Top 3 Hot Crypto Presales To Join Today

The digital asset market is shifting. We are moving away from hype-driven tokens toward projects that connect physical reality with decentralised finance. For those seeking high-value entry points, identifying hot crypto presales to join today is the best way to secure early positions. While many projects offer vague promises, a select few use concrete data and clear revenue models. This list explores three projects, starting with a leader in the augmented reality and real-world engagement sector. 1. LivLive ($LIVE): The Reality Layer of Web3 LivLive ($LIVE) is a real-world engagement operating system. It turns physical actions like walking, visiting shops, or leaving reviews into reputation (XP) and $LIVE tokens. The platform uses an AR-powered “reality layer.” Instead of scrolling on a screen, participants step into a portal where the world is the interface. It utilises Google ARCore and Geospatial APIs to trigger quests based on location and intent. This project targets the $1.3 trillion global ad and loyalty market. Most platforms today are fragmented. LivLive unifies reviews, wellness trackers, and ads into one trust-based loop. Businesses get "proof of presence" metrics. This means they pay for real foot traffic, not bot impressions. This system builds a cycle: business demand leads to rewards, which drive more community activity. LivLive ($LIVE) Presale Rewards and Early Access The LivLive presale is moving fast. It is currently in Stage 1 with a price of $0.02. The project has already raised over $2.2 million from 400+ early adopters. The launch price is set at $0.25. If a participant buys $1,000 worth of tokens today, they get 50,000 $LIVE. By using the bonus code BONUS200, they receive 200% extra tokens. This brings the total to 150,000 tokens. At the $0.25 launch price, that $1,000 entry could grow to a value of $37,500. Entering early offers a clear mathematical advantage before the price rises in the next stage. 2. Bitcoin Hyper ($HYPER) Bitcoin Hyper ($HYPER) is a scaling solution. It aims to make Bitcoin transactions faster for daily use. The project uses the famous Bitcoin name to attract interest. However, it focuses mostly on backend technical upgrades. It does not offer the interactive AR layers or consumer rewards seen in newer projects. Early adopters are betting on technical speed rather than a new way to engage with the world. Without a reward system or business loyalty tools, $HYPER relies purely on market demand for faster transfers. This makes it a more narrow and technical choice for community members. 3. BlockSack (BSACK) BlockSack ($BSACK) is a meme-style project. It follows the story of "Sacktoshi" to gain social media attention. While it has a staking plan and an NFT market, it relies mostly on viral hype. The value comes from community sentiment rather than a real-world business model. For participants, $BSACK is a high-risk entry point. It lacks the SaaS revenue and verified data of utility-focused projects. Compared to systems that solve business problems, BlockSack is driven by social trends. This makes it a more speculative option in the current market. Conclusion: Which Are the Hot Crypto Presales to Join Today? Choosing a project in 2026 requires looking for evidence of value. Bitcoin Hyper and BlockSack serve specific niches, but they lack broad utility. LivLive ($LIVE) stands out because it connects to the massive global loyalty industry. It provides a bridge between digital rewards and real-world commerce. With over $2.2 million raised, the market shows strong confidence in this "proof over promises" model. The LivLive presale offers the most growth potential. This is due to its structured price jumps and 200% bonus code. By rewarding real human action, it creates a high-trust environment for businesses and early adopters. Find Out More Information Here Website: www.livlive.com X: https://x.com/livliveapp Telegram Chat: https://t.me/livliveapp Disclaimer: This is a sponsored article. ABP Network Pvt. Ltd. and/or ABP Live do not endorse/subscribe to its contents and/or views expressed herein. Crypto products and NFTs are unregulated and can be highly risky. There may be no regulatory recourse for any loss from such transactions. Cryptocurrency is not a legal tender and is subject to market risks. Readers are advised to seek expert advice and read offer document(s) along with related important literature on the subject carefully before making any kind of investment whatsoever. Cryptocurrency market predictions are speculative and any investment made shall be at the sole cost and risk of the readers.

“I wasn’t convicted of a crime”: Tectone breaks silence after sexual assault court case details surface online

Streamer Tectone addressed viral claims about a sexual assault-related court case, denying any criminal conviction or jail risk and stating the matter was a civil hearing. Fellow streamer Mizkif disputed his account, alleging serious findings, restraining orders, and NDAs involving Tectone’s ex-partners. Tectone has not responded to Mizkif’s latest statements, leaving the controversy unresolved.