Author: Rasmita Jena

  • Nifty Pharma Index: Key Winners and Losers of the Day!

    Nifty Pharma Index: Key Winners and Losers of the Day!

    New Delhi: The Nifty Pharma index had a rough day on Wednesday. Some companies did well, like Gland Pharma (up 1.86%), J B Chemicals (up 0.81%), Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories (up 0.51%), Divi’s Laboratories (up 0.39%), and Alkem Laboratories (up 0.11%). Sadly, others like Glenmark Pharmaceuticals (down 3.23%), Granules India (down 2.56%), Lupin (down 2.06%), Natco Pharma (down 1.91%), and Biocon (down 1.68%) lost value. In total, the Nifty Pharma index dropped by 0.51% to close at 21,142.05. The main NSE Nifty50 index also fell, down 26.55 points at 23,045.25, and the BSE Sensex decreased by 122.52 points at 76,171.08. Out of the 50 stocks on the Nifty index, 26 went up while 24 went down.

    Some companies like Vodafone Idea, Zomato, YES Bank, Suzlon Energy, and SAIL saw lots of trades today. On the bright side, Vimta Labs, Mahamaya Steel, Norben Tea, Aarvee Denims, and Dr. Agarwals Health hit new 52-week highs. However, DB Corp., Generic Engineering, Gensol Engineering, Prince Pipes, and Delta Manufacturing reached new 52-week lows.

  • Retail Investors Struggle Amid Rising Stock Market Challenges

    Retail Investors Struggle Amid Rising Stock Market Challenges

    India’s stock market is in a tricky spot, and regular investors are seeing lower returns than what big numbers suggest. A report from Kotak Institutional Equities shows that, even though the Nifty 50 and Sensex indices are looking stable, many retail investors who bought stocks at high prices have lost money.

    The report says that relying on headline numbers can be misleading because many investors jumped in when prices were high and added more money during market peaks. Plus, costs like taxes and trading fees have made things worse for regular investors.

    Currently, the Nifty 50 has a slight positive return of 6% over the last year, but it has dropped 5% in the last six months and 4% in the last three months. Smaller companies (midcap and smallcap) are struggling even more, with drops of 11% and 13% during the same period.

    In 2024, more people started investing, with mutual fund investors increasing from 45 million at the end of 2023 to 53 million by December 2024. However, many new investors, especially those in trendy stocks, have faced difficulties, and several of these popular stocks have dropped sharply.

    Both the Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex have fallen about 12.4% and 11.5% from their highest points. Experienced investors might have put in big sums when prices were high, especially in specific funds.

    How the Indian stock market performs soon will depend on whether retail investors decide to keep their stocks or sell them if returns remain low. Kotak warns that retail investor behavior in the coming weeks or months will strongly influence the market.

    While foreign investors have sold off $28 billion in stocks recently, local institutional investors have picked up much of the selling. Still, it’s unclear how much support retail investors can give to keep stock values stable.

  • Trump’s Comments on Meghan Markle Spark Controversy — What’s Next?

    Trump’s Comments on Meghan Markle Spark Controversy — What’s Next?

    This week, British writer Esther Krakue shared her thoughts on Sky News Australia about how everyone in Britain seems to be laughing after former US President Donald Trump called Meghan Markle “terrible.” He made the comment while joking about Prince Harry. Even if many people found this funny, it’s reported that Meghan was really hurt by the remarks.

    Meghan and Harry tried to prove that their marriage is strong despite rumors, but it hasn’t helped their reputation much. Recently, they were seen together at the Invictus Games in Vancouver, which was a nice moment for them. In a surprising twist, Trump said he wouldn’t push for Prince Harry’s deportation over immigration issues. However, he called Prince Harry “whipped” and joked that he is “being led around by the nose” by Meghan.

    Many people in Britain seemed to enjoy Trump’s comments because Meghan has previously criticized him for being divisive and misogynistic. Royal author Ingrid Seward mentioned that many people secretly agreed with Trump, but calling someone “terrible” publicly is still very hurtful.

    There’s speculation about whether Meghan and Harry will respond legally to Trump’s comments, but it’s suggested they should stay calm and find a way to make a joke out of it instead. Even though some people found Trump’s words entertaining, it’s also a bit sad. The focus is back on Prince Harry’s immigration case since Trump became president again.

  • Empower Women Leaders: Join IIM Kozhikode’s Transformative Program!

    Empower Women Leaders: Join IIM Kozhikode’s Transformative Program!

    Recent data shows that although progress has been made, women still face various challenges in gaining leadership roles. Currently, women hold only 12% of top executive positions and just 1.6% in Fortune 500 companies in India. As of 2024, women occupy 23.2% of leadership roles in Indian companies, indicating some advancement but highlighting the need for more women in senior positions.

    To address this issue, IIM Kozhikode (IIMK) offers a Women Leadership Program tailored for mid-career and senior women executives. This 10-month course aims to empower participants to break through obstacles and prepare for high-level management positions. The program focuses on improving financial skills, embracing digital changes, and fostering inclusive leadership.

    What You Will Gain from the Program:
    – Learn in 100% live, interactive sessions with expert faculty.
    – Join workshops and coaching sessions with industry professionals.
    – Tackle real-world challenges through hands-on projects.
    – Enjoy two immersive experiences at the beautiful IIM Kozhikode campus.
    – Earn prestigious IIMK Executive Alumni Status after successful completion.

    Skills You’ll Master:
    By completing the program, you will develop crucial leadership skills:
    – Overcome challenges and biases effectively.
    – Promote diversity and create inclusive teams.
    – Lead your teams to high performance.
    – Enhance your negotiation abilities.
    – Cultivate resilience to thrive in changing environments.
    – Navigate organizational dynamics with confidence.

    Unique Features of IIMK’s Program:
    – Engage in practical workshops focused on strategic negotiation, resilience, and more.
    – Receive personalized coaching to develop a growth mindset and improve communication skills.
    – Collaborate with peers through team activities and branding workshops.
    – Apply your skills to real projects and create plans for future success.

    Who Should Enroll?
    This program is ideal for:
    – Mid-career women professionals looking to enhance executive presence and leadership skills.
    – Senior women leaders aiming to drive change and foster diversity in their organizations.

    Program Details:
    – Start Date: March 31, 2025
    – Duration: 10 Months
    – Fee: ₹3,50,000
    – Eligibility: Must be a graduate or diploma holder with at least 5 years of experience.

    About IIM Kozhikode:
    Founded in 1997, IIM Kozhikode is one of India’s top management institutes, known for its innovative programs and high-ranking courses. With a strong focus on executive education, IIMK aims to shape future leaders.

  • NCW Reacts to Ranveer Allahbadia’s Comments: Apoorva Mukhija’s Police Statement

    NCW Reacts to Ranveer Allahbadia’s Comments: Apoorva Mukhija’s Police Statement

    The controversy surrounding India’s Got Latent has intensified after the National Commission for Women (NCW) expressed strong concern over hurtful comments from Ranveer Allahbadia and others on the show. The Mumbai police visited the YouTuber’s home on Tuesday. On Wednesday, comedian and influencer Apoorva Mukhija reported to the Khar police station in Mumbai to give her statement.

    In a video shared by ANI, Apoorva was seen leaving the police station surrounded by reporters who wanted to know more about the case. She covered her face with a mask and went directly to her car without making any comments.

    Apoorva Mukhija shows up at Khar police station today in connection with the India’s Got Latent case. A complaint has been filed against YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, influencer Apoorva Mukhija, comedian Samay Raina, and the show’s organizers for allegedly using inappropriate language during the episode that triggered widespread outrage. The NCW has summoned them to appear in person for a hearing on February 17 at 12 PM in New Delhi.

    Maharashtra’s chief minister, Devendra Fadnavis, was also queried about the podcaster’s comments by reporters. He stated, “I’ve learned about it, though I haven’t watched it yet. Some things were said and shown in a misleading way. Everyone has the right to speak, but that freedom ends when it restricts the freedom of others.”

  • 2025-26 Budget Highlights: New Tax Rules and Benefits Explained!

    2025-26 Budget Highlights: New Tax Rules and Benefits Explained!

    On February 1, 2025, India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced some big changes in the budget for the year 2025-26 that will help many taxpayers. Here are the key points:

    No Tax for Low Earners: People who earn up to ₹12 lakh a year will not have to pay any tax.

    New Tax Rates: The government made the tax rates simpler for everyone:
    – Those earning ₹0-4 lakh will pay no tax.
    – Those earning ₹4-8 lakh will pay 5% tax.
    – If you earn ₹8-12 lakh, you pay 10% tax.
    – You will pay more as your income increases:
    – 15% for ₹12-16 lakh
    – 20% for ₹16-20 lakh
    – 25% for ₹20-24 lakh
    – 30% for over ₹24 lakh

    Tax Rebate Increase: The rebate for those using the new tax rules has gone up from ₹25,000 to ₹60,000, but this change does not apply to NRIs (Non-Resident Indians).

    Two Houses Allowed: Taxpayers can now call two houses as ‘self-occupied’ for tax purposes, even if they don’t live in both.

    Higher TCS Limit: The amount of money received from overseas remittances that requires Tax Collected at Source (TCS) has risen from ₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh.

    Educational Remittances: If you send money for education using a loan from a bank, TCS will not apply. Earlier, TCS was charged on amounts over ₹7 lakh.

    Easier Tax Returns: Taxpayers can now update their tax returns within 48 months instead of 24 months, although they will still need to pay extra tax and interest.

    NPS Contribution for Minors: Tax deductions for contributions to the National Pension Scheme (NPS) have been extended to include contributions for minors under the NPS Vatsalya scheme.

    TDS Changes:
    – For senior citizens, the limit for Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on interest income has increased from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh.
    – For others, it went from ₹40,000 to ₹50,000.
    – The TDS limit on rent paid by companies has changed from ₹2.4 lakh per year to ₹50,000 per month.
    – The TDS limit on dividends and mutual funds has increased from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000.

    This budget is expected to help boost the economy and benefit many citizens.

  • Do Market Challenges Affect Long-Term Loan Companies Equally?

    Do Market Challenges Affect Long-Term Loan Companies Equally?

    When we think about different types of loan companies, we see that some, like vehicle finance companies, have a long history of doing well. For 30 years, they’ve kept their bad loan rates very low. This means they are good at getting money back from people who borrow it. However, it’s not fair to say they should be treated the same as housing finance companies or retail loan providers when the market is struggling.

    Right now, many financial service companies are facing tough challenges.

    So, even though one company may have done great for many years, market conditions don’t always care about that. All companies can be affected by overall market changes, and they may face risks like rising interest rates or economic slowdowns.

    In summary, history matters, but in tough times, every company can feel the heat equally.

  • UN Report: Bangladesh’s Former Government’s Brutal Attacks on Protesters

    UN Report: Bangladesh’s Former Government’s Brutal Attacks on Protesters

    The United Nations reported that the previous government of Bangladesh was involved in serious attacks and killings of protesters last year. This violence might be considered “crimes against humanity.” Before Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister, was removed from power by student protests in August, her government was accused of a brutal crackdown on those who opposed it.

    A UN report looked into events in Bangladesh from July 1 to August 15 last year, finding strong evidence that the government committed acts including murder, torture, and imprisonment against protesters. Many were hurt or killed as the government tried to maintain control. The report claimed that up to 1,400 people might have died during those protests, a far higher number than the 834 deaths counted by the new interim government.

    Volker Turk, the head of the UN rights office, stated that the former government used extreme violence as part of a planned strategy to stay in power against public opposition. There were many cases of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and torture carried out with the support of the political leaders and high-ranking security officials.

    The report also highlighted that security forces deliberately targeted and killed unarmed protesters, some being shot at close range. It mentioned instances of gender-based violence, where threats of rape were used to stop women from protesting. Additionally, children were also victims of violence, facing killings and torture.

    As protests continued, some people also retaliated violently against police and officials linked to the former government. Turk emphasized the need for accountability and justice to help Bangladesh heal and suggested a complete process to confront the terrible things that happened so that they don’t happen again.

  • Delhi Court Acquits Women in Obscene Dance Case: A Victory for Justice!

    Delhi Court Acquits Women in Obscene Dance Case: A Victory for Justice!

    A Delhi court recently cleared seven women of charges that they danced inappropriately at a bar while wearing short clothes. The court said that wearing short clothes and dancing isn’t illegal.

    Last year, in Paharganj, the women were accused of dancing in a way that bothered customers. However, the judge, Chief Judicial Magistrate Neetu Sharma, found that there was not enough evidence to support these claims. She said, “The prosecution has failed to prove that any crime happened or that the accused were involved in any crime.”

    The judge made her decision on February 4, 2025. She explained that dancing in public, even in revealing clothes, is not a crime unless it bothers people. In this case, the police officer, Sub Inspector Dharmender, who reported the incident, did not mention anyone being annoyed by the dancing.

    The court noted that the police seemed to make up a story that wasn’t supported by others’ experiences. They highlighted, “Even if we trust SI Dharmender’s claim, it does not prove that any crime was committed.”

    The bar manager was also found innocent. The prosecution accused them of not putting up CCTV cameras as required but couldn’t prove any official notice about this rule existed. The court pointed out that the prosecution didn’t show any newspaper or details that said a notice had been published.

  • Odisha Plans Mid-Day Meals for 8 Lakh Students in Grades 9 and 10

    Odisha Plans Mid-Day Meals for 8 Lakh Students in Grades 9 and 10

    Odisha’s Chief Minister, Mohan Majhi, recently announced that the government will soon provide mid-day meals to about 8 lakh (800,000) students in grades 9 and 10 at government schools across the state. This announcement was made during a special event in Cuttack to celebrate 100 years of Ranihat High School.

    Officials mentioned that the state budget for 2025-26, which will be presented in the Assembly next week, will include funds for this new initiative. Many people have been asking for the inclusion of ninth and tenth graders in the mid-day meal program, saying it’s unfair that they were left out.

    The Mid-Day Meal program began in July 1995 and has since offered cooked meals to younger students in government and government-aided schools, from grades 1 to 5. In April 2008, the program expanded to include grades 6, 7, and 8. Now, the total number of students receiving meals has reached 44.5 lakh in over 51,500 schools.

    In September 2021, the scheme was renamed PM-POSHAN (Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman) by the Ministry of Education. The program aims to help kids eat better and show up for school more often. The meals provided include rice with a veggie dish called ‘Dalma’ on Mondays and Thursdays, rice with soybean curry on Tuesdays and Fridays, and rice with egg curry on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

    To make meals even healthier, the state government will also offer 200 ml of milk enriched with Vitamin A and D, helping students get the nutrients they need.

    Since the Mid-Day Meal program started, dropout rates in Odisha have been dropping steadily, according to data from 1995 to 2005. A study found that over 76% of primary school teachers believe the program helps kids stay in school and learn.