Mungeli . The Chief Minister's Skill Development Scheme run by the Chhattisgarh government is becoming a powerful medium to bring positive change in the lives of rural youth. Under the scheme, self-employment is being made available to the youth by training them in various courses. In this series, Shri Jeevan Singh Baiga, a resident of village Jhula in the district, has taken an important step towards self-employment by receiving skill training. He received training in the Domestic Data Entry Operator course in the IT/ITES sector at the District Project Livelihood College, Jamkor, under the Chief Minister's Skill Development Scheme. During this training program, he was taught in detail about computers, related equipment and all the necessary technical information used in the work.

Mr. Baiga explained that he learned about this training through a training camp. After completing all the necessary procedures, he qualified for the training and successfully completed it. The guidance and practical knowledge he received during the training gave him the confidence to become self-reliant. Following the training, Mr. Jeevan Singh Baiga established a CSC (Common Service Center) as a self-employment option. Currently, he is successfully supporting not only himself but also his family through this medium. Self-employment has provided him with a regular source of income, improving his financial situation and lifestyle. Mr. Jeevan Singh Baiga credits his success to the Skill Development Department, the District Project Livelihood College, Jamkor, Mungeli, and the district administration for effectively implementing this scheme on the ground. Expressing gratitude to Chief Minister Mr. Vishnudev Sai, he says that this scheme is becoming a strong foundation for employment and self-reliance for rural youth.

Raipur . Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai stated that Chhattisgarh is rapidly progressing towards becoming a developed state. He stated that Chhattisgarh must be taken much further and established as a developed state. He announced an increase in the funding for the Sant Sammelan ceremony in Damakheda from Rs. 50 lakh to Rs. 75 lakh.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai yesterday on Sunday attended the Satguru Kabir Sant Sammelan ceremony organized on the occasion of Magh Purnima at Kabir Dharam Nagar Damakheda. On this occasion, he took blessings from Panth Shri Udit Muni Nam Saheb, Panth Shri Prakash Muni Nam Saheb by presenting them Chadar Shriphal and wished for the prosperity of the state. While extending the best wishes of Magh Purnima, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that the Sant Sammelan ceremony of Kabir Dharam Nagar Damakheda is becoming grander every year which is a symbol of increasing faith among the people

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Kabir Panth has a wide influence on the life of people in Chhattisgarh, hence the people here are peace loving. He said that he is familiar with Kabir Panth since childhood and there are 8-10 Kabir Panthi families in his village Bagiya also. Regarding renaming Damakheda as Kabir Dharamnagar, he said that the final process for publication in the gazette is underway. Shri Sai said that people are getting direct benefits from the double engine government. Now the Chief Minister said that Naxalism, which was an obstacle to the development of Chhattisgarh, is going to be eradicated soon. Naxalism will be completely eradicated from the state by March 31, 2026. We have rapidly fulfilled the promise made to the people. 

Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Vijay Sharma said that the Chadar Tilak ceremony of Panth Shri Udit Muni Naam Saheb was amazing and supernatural. Panth Shri is working in the fields of tree plantation, social service, de-addiction and youth upliftment. He took blessings for the happiness and prosperity of the state by visiting Panth Shri. He said that Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Dev Sai is always concerned about the various development works of Kabir Ashram and gives instructions to complete them soon. Food Minister Mr. Dayal Das Baghel and Bhatapara MLA Mr. Indra Sao also addressed the program. 

At the ceremony, Panthshree Prakash Muni Nam Saheb extended a warm welcome to Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai on behalf of the Kabirpanthi community. He said that on the occasion of Basant Panchami, the first day of the Magh Mela this year, the Chadar Tilak ceremony of the new leader of the Kabir Panth, the 16th Vanshacharya of the Panth, Shri Udit Muni Nam Saheb, was held. He informed that this year, Kabirpanthi saints from various states of the country as well as from abroad have come to the Samagam Mela. The ceremony received full support from the government administration. On this occasion, Panthshree Udit Muni Nam Saheb, Gurugosai Bhanu Pratap Saheb, MLA Mrs. Bhavana Bohra, Shri Ishwar Sahu, former MP Shri Abhishek Singh, former MLA Shivratan Sharma, representatives of the Sadguru Kabir Dharamdas Saheb Vanshva Pratinidhi Sabha, officers, employees and a large number of Kabirpanth followers were present.

Raipur - Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma today released the book 'The Story of King Bhoramdev' at the MLA office in Kawardha. The Deputy Chief Minister congratulated the author of the book, Shri Ramprasad Baghel, and wished him all the best for his future successful literary works. Shri Sharma said that this book is a matter of pride for the people of the district and it will make an important contribution in taking our cultural and historical traditions to the new generation. This story is of international standard and the publication of this book will give international recognition to the fame of Bhoramdev. 

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma said that the book not only highlights the glory of the life and times of King Bhoramdev, but also beautifully presents the profound philosophy of balance between man, nature, and consciousness. He urged everyone to read the book and imbibe its message in their lives.

Author Shri Ramprasad Baghel explains that "The Story of King Bhoramdev" begins in an ancient and mysterious era, when a massive comet fell from the sky onto Earth, disrupting not only the natural balance but also unleashing deadly dragon-like creatures that draw energy from darkness. These creatures grew more powerful in the darkness and gradually led the entire Earth toward a terrifying eternal dusk, where no one, human, animal, or nature, was safe. The story's main protagonist is Kuruguru Bhadradev Baiga, who understands the balance of science, spirituality, and nature. Led by scholars, it is discovered that the glowing blue mark on the dragons' foreheads is not a decoration but a device that draws energy from darkness, and as the darkness increases, they become more and more invincible.

The story also details the intense penance and divine-scientific powers of King Parasmanidhar Dev and Queen Nagmati, rulers of an ancient dynasty. The king possesses the Philosopher's Stone, which has the ability to transform matter and life using solar energy, while Queen Nagmati possesses the Nagamani Yantra, which has the power to destroy any substance or neutralize poison. The story is not only about war and conflict, but also about love, destiny, and consciousness. The king and queen's love blossoms on the lake shore, through mere glances and feelings. Their marriage symbolizes not just the union of two powerful dynasties, but the union of science, nature, and consciousness. Former District Panchayat President Shri Videshiram Dhurve, Shri Santosh Patel, District Vice President of Kawardha Shri Ganesh Tiwari, Bodla Shri Nand Shrivas, Shri Narendra Manikpuri, Shri Maniram Sahu, Shri Amar Kurre, Shri Praveen Sharma, Shri Jasbir Saluja, Shri Shailendra Upadhyay, along with public representatives and citizens of the area were present on the occasion.

Raipur - Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao inaugurated the Maghi Purnima and Tribal Development Fair 2026 in Ratanpur on February 1. On this occasion, Mr. Sao announced Rs. 2 crore for the construction of an auditorium and Rs. 20 lakh for a boundary wall at the municipal building. 

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Saw said at the event that Ratanpur is a sacred and ancient city, renowned worldwide. Much remains to be done here to live up to this reputation. It was once the capital of Chhattisgarh. We will work to enhance its dignity accordingly. 

Mr. Saw said that he will work to develop Ratanpur as a corridor. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, work has been done to decorate and beautify the religious places of the country. With the blessings of Mother Mahamaya, Ratanpur will also be beautified. The way has been paved for the beautification of the ponds of Ratanpur. He will work wholeheartedly to make it beautiful. MLA Mr. Sushant Shukla, District Panchayat President Mr. Rajesh Suryavanshi and Municipal Council President Mr. Lavkush Kashyap along with councilors and city residents were present in large numbers at the program.

Raipur : Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka attended the inauguration of the Rajim Kumbh Kalpa Mela, held at the Naveen Mela Ground, Rajim, on the sacred banks of the Triveni Sangam (Rajim) as the chief guest. On this occasion, Governor Ramen Deka, Tourism Minister Rajesh Agrawal, along with guests and saints, offered flowers to the statue of Lord Rajivalochan, received his blessings, and prayed for the prosperity and well-being of the state. In his address, he said that this sacred land of Rajim, where the Mahanadi, Pairi, and Sondhur rivers meet, holds immense sacred and historical significance. He said that the fair held at this sacred site, known to devotees as the "Kalpa Kumbh," symbolizes our rich cultural and religious heritage.

Governor Shri Ramen Deka said that I am feeling extremely happy and proud to be present among you all on the occasion of Rajim Kumbh Kalpa. I feel immense peace coming to the Kumbh Mela in Rajim, the holy city of Chhattisgarh. I heartily welcome the saints, sages and devotees who have come from different parts of the country to this confluence of religion, faith and culture, Rajim Kumbh Mela. I pray to Kuleshwar Mahadev, Rajiv Lochan Bhagwan, and Rajim Bhaktin Mata to keep their blessings on our country and state so that peace, happiness and prosperity always prevail here.

Rajim is a symbol of Chhattisgarh's faith.
The Governor further said that Rajim Maghi Punni Mela is a symbol of Chhattisgarh's faith. This is a sacred event in which not only the people of Chhattisgarh but also devotees from different parts of the country come. Rajim is a major religious place famous as the center of Shaivism and Vaishnavism since ancient times. Here Lord Vishnu is seated in the four-armed form in the Rajivalochan temple. Here Lord Shiva is seated in the form of Kuleshwar Mahadev.

Governor Shri Deka stated that the Panchkoshi Yatra
of Kuleshwarnath Mahadev, Pateshwar Nath Mahadev, Champeshwar Nath Mahadev, Bramhkeshwar Nath, Phanikeshwar Nath Mahadev, and Karpureshwar Mahadev is world-famous. The abundance of ancient temples gives Rajim archaeological, religious, and cultural significance. These temples showcase the glorious history of sculpture. The month of Magh is considered a holy month in the scriptures. For centuries, there has been a tradition of holy baths in sacred rivers and the Triveni confluence during this sacred period. There is an ancient tradition of organizing fairs in various places in Chhattisgarh during this month. Fairs have special social and community significance. They bring together diverse cultures and provide an opportunity for the new generation to become familiar with their traditions. I salute all the saints, scholars, and religious leaders present at the Rajim Fair today. India has been a land of saints and sages. It is said that when the feet of saints and sages touch a place, that place becomes sacred. Following the path shown by saints leads to enlightenment and positive change in life. Where saints are respected, there is happiness, prosperity, peace, and well-being. Their lives are always dedicated to charity. By associating with saints, we become better human beings.

Raipur : Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma welcomed the Union Budget 2026-27 presented today, calling it historic, unprecedented, and decisive in the path toward a developed India. He said that this budget, presented under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister, has been prepared with the primary needs of villages, the poor, farmers, women, and youth at the center and gives new strength to the resolve for a self-reliant India.

Mr. Sharma said that the provision of a substantial fertilizer subsidy in the interest of farmers is a major step towards reducing the cost of farming. This will ensure the availability of cheap fertilizers, reduce production costs, and provide direct relief to farmers. Furthermore, making adequate provisions in the agriculture budget will accelerate agricultural research, innovation, and modern technologies.

Noting a significant 21 percent increase in rural development spending, Mr. Sharma said the budget offers a clear roadmap for the holistic development of villages. Doubling direct assistance to panchayats and the vision of a self-reliant village, the Vikasit Gram, will energize the rural economy. Initiatives like Lakhpati Didi and SHE-Mart will enable women from self-help groups to move beyond livelihoods and become entrepreneurs.

He said that the Union Budget 2026 presented today makes it clear that the Bharatiya Janata Party government is taking the country forward with strong decisions and concrete results. This budget is not a document of appeasement, but of the politics of development and nation-building. Provisions made for all sections of society, including farmers, the poor, the middle class, and the youth, demonstrate that the government's focus is not on vote banks, but on India's future. Opposition parties accuse the government of weakening MNREGA, but by providing increased funds for MNREGA in the Union Budget, the government has made its intentions clear: it is committed to strengthening MNREGA and making it more effective for the people of the country, as VB Ram ji said.

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma expressed confidence that with strong investments in infrastructure, employment, education and self-reliant India, this budget will further strengthen the foundation of a strong, prosperous and developed India for the next 25 years and will prove decisive in making the country one of the leading economies of the world.

-“7% growth rate amid global recession is proof of Modi government's economic foresight: Brijmohan Agarwal”Learn more

Raipur: Chhattisgarh MP and senior BJP leader Brijmohan Agrawal welcomed the Union Budget 2026-27, calling it a historic budget for the overall development of Chhattisgarh and realizing the resolve of 'Developed India' under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Agarwal said that maintaining the country's growth rate at 7 percent even during a global recession and instability is a testament to the Modi government's strong economic policy and vision. This budget has been prepared with youth, women's empowerment, employment generation, and infrastructure at the center.

He said that the budget proposes a record capital expenditure (Capex) of ₹12.2 lakh crore, which will accelerate infrastructure development across the country and create large-scale employment opportunities. Chhattisgarh, in particular, will directly benefit from this.

Big gifts for Chhattisgarh-MP Brijmohan Agrawal said that many far-reaching announcements have been made in the budget for the mineral-rich and tribal-dominated state of Chhattisgarh.

Mining Corridors: Mining corridors will be developed in Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Kerala. This will strengthen connectivity in coal, iron ore, and bauxite regions, reduce transportation costs, and increase industrial investment.

Tribal Welfare: The proposal to establish Tribal Health Observatories in 8 states including Chhattisgarh and to develop sports hubs in tribal schools will give a new direction to social development.

He said that Chhattisgarh's receipt of ₹52,000 crore in central assistance in a single year is a testament to the Modi government's love for Chhattisgarh and commitment to development. This amount is approximately ₹4,500 crore more than last year, which will further accelerate the pace of development in the state.

Korba, Bharatiya Janata Party National Vice President Saroj Pandey expressed her reaction to the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament. She said that India is not satisfied with being merely the fastest-growing economy, but wants to move forward towards becoming the world's third largest economy as soon as possible. This budget is a highway of immense opportunities and will make the dreams of the present come true. This budget will give new impetus to the reforms India is riding on.

Saroj Pandey stated that the strong emphasis given to sunrise sectors is crucial. Provisions such as the Rare Earth Corridor, an emphasis on critical minerals, textiles, and high-tech tool manufacturing address current and future needs. The budget also includes several major steps to strengthen infrastructure. Steps such as the high-speed rail corridor and the focus on developing tier-two and tier-three cities will further accelerate India's journey towards a developed India. She added that a country's greatest asset is its citizens, and the government has invested in this direction. Strengthening skills, scale, and sustainability has been a priority for the government.

He said that this budget is dedicated to the youth power. New opportunities will open for the youth through Orange Economy, Tourism and Khelo India Mission. Major tax exemptions have been given to make India the world's data center hub, which will boost employment generation. More than 10 crore women in the country are associated with self-help groups, hence a provision has been made in the budget to strengthen the groups formed and run by women. The government's effort is to ensure that Lakshmi reaches every home. Along with this, a provision has also been made to build girls' hostels in every district.

Saroj Pandey said that under the guiding principle of "reform over rhetoric" in the Union Budget, the government has identified three key objectives to transform the country's potential into performance. These include accelerating and sustaining economic growth by increasing productivity and global competitiveness, fulfilling the aspirations of the people by empowering them to share in prosperity, and realizing the vision of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (together with all, development for all) to ensure equal opportunities for every region and community.

He said that the integrated development of 500 reservoirs and the promotion of women's groups and FPOs are highlights of this inclusive development budget. This will strengthen coastal areas as well as the inland sector. This initiative will transform water resources into a sustainable source of income and will bring inclusive development to the forefront by connecting fishermen, women's groups, and small producers to organized markets.

Finally, Saroj Pandey expressed her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and said that this budget will prove to connect Chhattisgarh more strongly with the mainstream of development.

Raipur,. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai will visit Korba and Surguja districts on Monday. He will leave for Korba at 12 noon and attend a program in Risthi village. He will then arrive in Ambikapur at 2:25 pm and participate in a program at Mata Rajmohini Devi Bhawan. He will then return to Raipur at 5:30 pm.

Economic security becomes the foundation of self-reliance
Raipur. Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, focused on women's economic empowerment, is becoming a powerful example of social and economic change across the state. The monthly financial assistance directly deposited into bank accounts is empowering women, strengthening their respect and participation in their families and society. Along with providing financial support, this scheme is also strengthening women's self-confidence, security, and self-reliance.
The positive impact of the scheme is clearly visible in various districts of the state. Mrs. Bahura Kaushik, a homemaker from the Rampur area of ​​Korba district, and her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Savita Kaushik, are beneficiaries of this scheme. Both have received a total of 24,000 rupees in 24 installments under the scheme, which has significantly supported their household needs and children's education.

Mrs. Savita Kaushik said that the timely monthly payment has made it possible to manage household expenses systematically and not have to depend on anyone in times of need. Mrs. Bahura Kaushik also said that this government initiative has proved to be a great relief for women, further strengthening the feeling of cooperation, respect and self-confidence in the family. She expressed her gratitude to Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Dev Sai and Women and Child Development Minister Mrs. Laxmi Rajwade.

Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade said that the Mahatari Vandan Yojana is a historic and effective initiative of the state government to strengthen women's self-respect, economic independence, and social security. This scheme is empowering women to play a decisive role in their families and society. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, the state government is committed to the overall development of women, and through this scheme, benefits are being ensured to every eligible woman.

Mahatari Vandan Yojana is becoming established as an effective step towards the respect, self-reliance and empowerment of women, which is playing an important role in building a prosperous and strong Chhattisgarh through self-reliant women.

Chief Minister Sai is working diligently on all aspects of agriculture and rural development
00 Promotion of thin and aromatic rice to increase farmers' income

00 Union Agriculture Minister reviews departmental performance 

Raipur. Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has stated that special efforts are being made in collaboration with the state government to make Chhattisgarh advanced and self-reliant in the agricultural sector. A team of senior central government agricultural scientists and state government officials will formulate a specific policy tailored to Chhattisgarh's agroclimate within the next week. Present at the meeting were Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma and Agriculture Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam, Chief Secretary Shri Vikassheel, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Shri Subodh Singh, Agriculture Production Commissioner and Secretary Smt. Shehla Nigar, along with senior administrative officials from the central and state governments. 

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai and Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan made these remarks while addressing officials after a high-level review of the Agriculture Department's performance at the Ministry Mahanadi Bhawan today. He also stated that crop diversification must be promoted in the state to increase farmers' income. Additionally, small-holding farmers should also promote non-agricultural allied activities such as animal husbandry, fisheries, and forestry.

Union Minister Mr. Singh stated that the state's research and variety issues will be addressed, and work will be done on crop diversity. Mr. Chouhan stated that his intention in coming here is to recognize that good work is being done, but there are endless possibilities for further improvement. Through various experiments, agriculture will be further strengthened. He emphasized that research should directly benefit farmers. He reviewed strengthening Farmer Producer Organizations, physical verification of agricultural equipment distribution, and the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhanya District Scheme. Interacting with Chhattisgarh's agricultural officials and associates, the Union Minister emphasized innovation and teamwork, stating that those who do good work will be honored.

Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reviewed the implementation of central and state government schemes for agricultural development and farmer empowerment in Chhattisgarh. Union Minister Chouhan stated that Chhattisgarh has a suitable climate for various crops. Emphasizing crop diversification, he called for promoting different crops in different districts and regions according to the climate. Union Minister
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, continuous and meaningful efforts are being made to increase the income of the country's farmers. He stated that adopting modern agricultural equipment and innovative farming techniques will increase crop production, empower farmers, and lead to prosperity in the country. He noted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Chhattisgarh is experiencing excellent progress. The state also has a suitable climate for horticultural crops, including pulses and oilseeds. This crop diversification and diversification will increase farmers' income. 
Union Minister Shri Chouhan reviewed the progress of various schemes, including the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, Mission for Self-Reliance in Pulses Yojana, Krishi Unnati, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, and Horticulture Mission Yojana. He said that it should be ensured that eligible farmers get 100% benefit under PM Samman Nidhi Yojana. He stressed on promoting the cultivation of palm oil and makhana.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan for the prompt support from the Central Government in the field of agriculture and rural development. The Chief Minister said that Chhattisgarh is getting more help than expected from the Central Government. The Chief Minister said that the guidelines received from Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan in the meeting for improving the field of rural development and agriculture in the state will accelerate the development of these sectors.

New Delhi, February 1. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for the ninth consecutive time. Earlier on Sunday, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave its approval to the Union Budget for the financial year 2026-27.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said in her budget speech, "The government will continue to take strong steps towards a 'developed India.' India will remain deeply integrated with the global market. I would like to begin Part A by expressing my gratitude to the citizens of this country who have made it one of the largest economies in the world."

Sitharaman said, "We have ensured that farmers, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, youth, women, and the poor continue to benefit. This is a youth-driven budget. Our government's commitment is to focus on the poor and the marginalized."

He said that this budget was prepared in the Kartavya Bhavan. The first duty is to promote economic growth in a sustainable manner. The second duty is to fulfill people's aspirations. The third duty is to ensure that everyone has equal access to resources, facilities, and opportunities.

Earlier, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met with President Draupadi Murmu on Sunday before presenting her record ninth budget in the Lok Sabha. As is customary, the Finance Minister met with the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan before proceeding to Parliament. President Murmu offered Sitharaman yogurt and sugar. She congratulated the Finance Minister on her budget.

Budget 2026 LIVE Updates:  Just before the Union Budget 2026-27, the country's economic front has witnessed intense activity. From gold and silver to the stock market, volatility has increased, sending investors into a frenzy. Following a historic decline in precious metals due to heavy profit booking and pressure from global markets, all eyes are now focused on the budget announcements. Meanwhile, the Sensex and Nifty also slipped into the red as market participants traded cautiously, anticipating major moves before the budget.

The nation's eyes are on the Finance Minister

Government initiatives such as economic policy, tax structure, relief for the salaried class, investment in infrastructure, and import duties will determine the market's direction. The volatility in gold and silver prices, in particular, has made investors more cautious, as any duty changes in the budget could directly impact the prices of these metals. Overall, the pre-budget environment is displaying a mix of ups and downs, expectations, and uncertainty, and the country now awaits the Finance Minister's announcement.

The country's economy grew at a growth rate of 7% - Nirmala Sitharaman

Presenting the Union Budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, "Under PM Modi's leadership, many changes have been made. Self-reliance is the core mantra of our economy. We have also made every effort to benefit citizens through government decisions. The country's economy has grown at a growth rate of 7 percent."

Maharashtra: Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as Maharashtra's first woman Deputy Chief Minister on Saturday evening. She replaced her husband and former Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, who tragically passed away in a plane crash two days ago. Governor Acharya Devvrat administered the oath of office and secrecy to her at a solemn ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, NCP state president Sunil Tatkare, and Praful Patel, along with several other prominent leaders, were present on the occasion. Sunetra has been given the State Excise Duty, Sports and Youth Welfare, Minority Development, and Auqaf portfolios. The Planning and Finance portfolios, previously held by Ajit Pawar, now rest with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Sunetra Pawar has been given the state excise duties, sports and youth welfare, minority development, and Wakf departments. The planning and finance departments, previously held by the late Ajit Pawar, are now with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Business Desk: Starting Sunday, February 1, 2026, several important regulations will undergo changes that will directly impact the public's finances. These include LPG, PNG, CNG, Fastag, credit cards, cigarettes, and tobacco products. Let's explore the changes that will take effect on February 1.

Change in LPG cylinder prices

Oil marketing companies review the prices of domestic and commercial LPG cylinders every month. If necessary, the prices of 14.2 kg domestic and 19 kg commercial cylinders can be increased or decreased. Even before the budget, on February 1st, the price of 19 kg commercial cylinders was increased by ₹50.

Cigarettes and tobacco products will become more expensive

A new tax will be imposed on cigarettes, tobacco, and other tobacco products across the country. This tax will increase prices due to increased excise duties and cess. This tax will be separate from the GST.

CNG, PNG and ATF prices also affected

Like LPG, the prices of CNG, PNG, and aviation fuel (ATF) are also reviewed monthly. While CNG is used for vehicles, PNG is supplied to homes through pipelines for cooking. ATF is used as aviation fuel.

KYC will no longer be required for FASTag

The need for KYC verification for FASTags will be completely eliminated from February 1. Under the new rules, only the banks issuing FASTags will be required to conduct the necessary verification.

LPG Price Hike:  Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to present the Union Budget 2026 in Parliament today, February 1st. However, even before the budget speech begins, people have been hit by inflation. Now, people will have to pay more for LPG gas cylinders. The country's major state-owned oil marketing companies, IOC, HPCL, and BPCL, have increased the price of 19-kg commercial gas cylinders. The new prices came into effect on Sunday, February 1st. However, the relief is that there has been no change in the price of 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinders.

How much did the prices increase?

Oil marketing companies have increased the price of 19-kg commercial gas cylinders by ₹49, effective February 1st. This will put a greater strain on people's pockets. The increase in commercial gas cylinder prices has raised concerns among businesses and the hotel and restaurant sector. Previously, in January, the price of these cylinders was raised by ₹111. However, the price of 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinders will remain unchanged.

What are the rates in Delhi?

According to the IOC website, the price of a 19-kg commercial cylinder in Delhi is now ₹1,740.50. Previously, it was available for ₹1,691.50, a price increase of ₹49. Meanwhile, the 14.2-kg LPG cylinder used in typical households remains stable at ₹853 in Delhi. BPCL and HPCL are also following the same rate.

New rates in metros

In Kolkata, a 19 kg commercial cylinder now costs ₹1,844.50. In Mumbai, its price has reached ₹1,692.00. The most expensive commercial cylinder is available in Chennai, where its price has risen to ₹1,899.50.

Domestic cylinder prices remain stable

The price of a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder was last revised on April 8, 2025. Since then, prices have remained unchanged. A domestic cylinder is available for ₹853 in Delhi, ₹879 in Kolkata, ₹852.50 in Mumbai, and ₹868.50 in Chennai.

Changes happen every month

Government oil companies review the prices of LPG cylinders on the first of every month. Based on this, the price is increased. Commercial cylinders also became more expensive in January 2026. However, in November and December last year, the price was reduced by ₹10 and ₹5, respectively. This means that prices have been fluctuating continuously over the past few months.

What was the situation last year?

Gas cylinder prices increased in both January and February of this year, but they decreased in November and December 2025. Prior to that, there was a ₹15.50 increase in October. Interestingly, commercial cylinders became cheaper for several consecutive months from March 2025 to September 2025.

ATF becomes cheaper

While gas cylinders have become more expensive, the price of aviation fuel ATF has been reduced since February 1. In Delhi, the price of ATF has dropped to $778.85 per kiloliter, down from $791.48 previously. In rupee terms, 1,000 liters of ATF now costs ₹91,393.39, down from ₹92,323.02 previously. ATF prices have also been reduced in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai.

Stock Market Updates on Sunday, February 1, 2026:  Indian stock markets are expected to open flat today (Sunday, February 1). Nifty futures were up 16 points at 25,420 at 8 am. This indicates a flat opening for the key benchmark index, the Nifty 50.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2026 on February 1, 2026, at 11:00 am. Despite being a Sunday, Indian stock markets will remain open. Based on past records, the presentation of the budget has a profound impact on market sentiment. This influences not only the day's trading but also the medium-term sectoral trend.

The Union Budget has historically been a significant event for the Indian stock markets. It often determines market movements in the short term and influences sectoral trends based on policy direction. The upcoming Union Budget for FY2026 is likely to focus specifically on defense, capex, and overall economic stability.

In the previous session, Indian stock markets on Friday snapped a three-day rally. The BSE Sensex fell 296.59 points, or 0.36 percent, to close at 82,269.78. The NSE Nifty 50 declined 98.25 points, or 0.39 percent, to close at 25,320.65. On a monthly basis, the Nifty declined 3.1 percent. This was its worst monthly performance since February 2025, when the Nifty had lost more than 5.8 percent.

Global markets

Globally, major Wall Street indexes closed lower on Friday after US President Donald Trump nominated former Federal Reserve Governor Kevin Warsh as the successor to Fed Chair Jerome Powell, who is considered to have a hawkish monetary stance.

Additionally, markets digested corporate results and stronger-than-expected inflation data. The S&P 500 fell 0.43 percent, the Nasdaq Composite, which includes tech stocks, lost 0.94 percent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed down 0.36 percent.

Asian markets also closed mostly lower on Friday, weighed down by Apple's warning of rising memory chip costs and China's state-run Securities Times advising investors to be wary of speculation.

China's Shanghai Composite fell 0.96 percent, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 slipped 0.65 percent and Japan's Nikkei 225 fell marginally 0.09 percent. However, South Korea's Kospi closed with a slight gain of 0.06 percent, bucking the broader weakness

Infrastructure

In the infrastructure sector, the government is likely to focus more on execution than grand announcements. Public capex is likely to continue in roads, power, defense, and urban infrastructure, keeping large engineering and capital goods companies in focus.

What to expect from EV, auto and green energy?

Electric mobility has now moved beyond the experimental stage. Support for EV charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and strengthening local value chains is expected to continue. In the auto sector, the government's stance on tax stability, improved affordability, and a gradual recovery in demand will be crucial.

Renewable and green energy could be a major theme of Budget 2026. The market will be closely monitoring policy clarity and funding for projects related to solar, green hydrogen, and the energy transition.

Focus on exports, MSME and consumption

Amid global uncertainties, PLI and credit support for export-oriented sectors are expected to be increased.
Regarding the MSME sector, the industry is demanding tax relief, easier credit, and simplification of compliance.
Meanwhile, tax and welfare measures to boost consumption could be key elements of the budget