Uttar Pradesh is an Indian state which is located in northern India. Uttar Pradesh gained recognition during the British rule and came into being on April 1, 1937 as the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh. It was later in the year 1950 when the state was renamed Uttar Pradesh. With an area of 93,023 sq. m, UP is the fourth Indian largest state. Also, UP is the most populous Indian state and the most populous country subdivision in the world. UP shares its borders with nine states including Rajasthan to the west, Uttarakhand to the north, Bihar to the east, Madhya Pradesh to the south and Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh to the southeast. The state also shares an international border with Nepal. The state capital is Lucknow with Allahabad serving as the judicial capital. Ganga and Yamuna are the two major rivers that flow through the state. Meanwhile, Awadhi, Bagheli, Bundeli, Braj Bhasha, Kannauji are the major languages spoken in the state.
Interestingly, Indian classical dance form, Kathak is said to be originated from the land of UP. The state is world-famous for Nawabi foods or Awadhi cuisine which is influenced by Mughal cooking techniques (dum style of cooking) such as ‘biryani’, ‘korma’, ‘kebab’, ‘sheermal’, ‘nahari-kulchas’.
Considered the second-largest economy in India, Mughalsarai (city in UP) is home to major locomotive plants. UP is worldwide famous for carpet weaving hand printing, chikan embroidery and brocade work. UP also houses the biggest brass and copperware manufacture area in India. In addition to this, the state also boasts a fair number of tourist sites such as the iconic Taj Mahal (included in the Seven Wonders of the World), Khas Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Art Gallery etc.
On this news bulletin, host Maria Shakil discusses the upcoming Union Budget as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present her ninth consecutive budget, creating history in Indian governance. Reporting from Vijay Chowk, Ketan Bhutani notes that 'something on deregulation could probably be announced' alongside a significant push for MSMEs and a potential 8-10% increase in infrastructure allocation to nearly ₹12.5 lakh crore. The panel, including Shankar Aiyar and Rajiv Mantri, evaluates the 'reform, perform, and transform' mantra, highlighting the critical role of states in asset monetisation and labour-intensive manufacturing. The discussion underscores the performance of states like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu in attracting investments and driving industrial growth. The programme explores the transition from government-led CapEx to the need for private investment and state-level deregulation to improve the ease of living and economic liquidity.
On this Special Report, India Today’s Sneha Mordani travels to the rural belt of Chandoli in Uttar Pradesh, known as the state's 'paddy bowl', to gauge farmer expectations ahead of the Union Budget. Farmers in this agricultural heartland expressed urgent needs for a more profitable Minimum Support Price (MSP) and better market access. One farmer highlighted the struggle, stating, 'Until we don't get it in terms of profit, In the budget, we should make arrangements to give a profitable price to the farmers.' The report details demands for financial support for modern machinery, specifically for black rice farming, and the implementation of agro-mechanisms to prevent stubble burning. Additionally, the conversation underscores the critical need for irrigation and climate-resilient crop practices. Sneha Mordani highlights that these farmers are not merely asking for subsidies but for the 'real price' and value for the food they provide to the country.
On this Special Report, Sneha Mordani explores the urgent expectations of the agricultural community ahead of the upcoming Union Budget. Reporting from Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh, Mordani highlights that the sector employs nearly 46% of India's workforce but faces rising input costs and erratic weather. A key sentiment captured from the ground is: 'We are not getting the cost of production because the profit value is very low.' Farmers expressed a desire for modern machinery, better irrigation, and a shift toward climate-resilient practices like black rice cultivation. Interestingly, many farmers stated they do not want subsidies or 'alms' but rather a fair price for their produce and a platform to sell chemical-free products. The report underscores the need for reforms in the PM Fasal Bima Yojana and investment in rural infrastructure to ensure the backbone of the rural economy remains sustainable and profitable.
On this Special Report, Sneha Mordani travels to the rural belt of Chandauli in Uttar Pradesh, often called the 'paddy bowl of India', to capture the urgent expectations of farmers ahead of the Union Budget. The agriculture sector, which employs nearly 46% of India's workforce, faces mounting pressures from rising input costs and erratic weather. One farmer highlighted the dire situation, stating, 'We are not getting cost of production. Profit is a far off thing.' The report details how the farming community is demanding a more robust Minimum Support Price (MSP) that ensures profitability rather than just covering costs. Beyond financial aid, the transcript outlines the need for modern machinery, subsidies for black rice farming, and improved irrigation facilities. Sneha Mordani notes that while the government has provided some machinery, the high operational costs remain a hurdle. The report concludes with a call for climate-resilient practices and a market platform for chemical-free products to ensure both farmer prosperity and consumer health.
This special report examines the India Today-CVoter Mood of the Nation tracker findings. While the poll projects the NDA to secure 352 seats if elections were held today, driven by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's high leadership ratings and perceived political stability, analysts Yashwant Deshmukh, Raj Chengappa, and Tuhin Sinha discuss the state of the opposition, where Rahul Gandhi remains the primary challenger despite a significant rating gap.
This special report examines the India Today-CVoter 'Mood of the Nation' January 2026 poll results, where panelists discuss findings suggesting a consolidation for the NDA, which is projected to win 352 seats if Lok Sabha elections were held today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi maintains a 57% approval rating, reflecting a perceived political stability despite global turbulence. In contrast, the INDIA alliance is projected to slip to 182 seats.
This segment of the India Today-CVoter Mood of the Nation survey analyses the 'Mood of the Nation' January 2026 in the poll-bound states if Lok Sabha elections are held today.
On this Special Report, Yashwant Deshmukh, Founder-Director of C Voter, joins Rajdeep Sardesai and Kirti Bhadana to discuss the latest 'Mood of the Nation' poll findings. Deshmukh reveals that if elections were held today, the NDA is projected to secure 352 seats, noting that 'the biggest changes are being witnessed in the states where BJP had faced the setback, unexpected setback, including Maharashtra, UP, Rajasthan.' The data shows a decline in opposition momentum since August 2025, with the Congress party's performance rating dropping by 6% in January 2026. The discussion highlights a significant advantage for the BJP in Telangana and a consolidating bipolar contest in West Bengal. Deshmukh clarifies that the survey, involving over 125,000 respondents, specifically reflects Lok Sabha trends where the 'Modi dividend' is most prominent, cautioning against direct extrapolation to upcoming Vidhan Sabha elections.
On this Special Report, consulting editor Rajdeep Sardesai analyzes the 'Mood of the Nation' January 2026 projections for upcoming assembly polls. The data suggests a significant lead for the India bloc and regional parties in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, while the NDA maintains a comfortable lead in Assam. Sardesai observes, 'The big message is that the regional forces are holding their ground, which makes it very difficult for the BJP to penetrate these states.' The discussion highlights the divergence between national narratives and state-level factors, noting that while Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ratings remain high, voters distinguish between central and regional leadership. The panel, including Maria Shakeel and Sanju Verma, debates the BJP's 'course correction' in Uttar Pradesh following the 2024 Lok Sabha results and the opposition's ability to capitalize on regional strengths. The programme explores whether the India alliance can maintain its momentum as a diverse democratic force against the BJP's electoral machinery.
On this news report, the focus is on the Supreme Court of India's scathing observations regarding the 2026 UGC regulations. The top court stayed the new norms, questioning if the country is 'losing gains of 75 years' and moving in a 'regressive direction' by using vague language prone to misuse. Varun Choudhary, President of the Congress youth wing NSUI, stated, 'this is mostly seen that it happens more with SC, ST and OBC' while clarifying that the NSUI stands against all forms of discrimination. The broadcast highlights the court's concern over campus unity and the potential for catastrophic damage if guidelines are not accurately drafted. The 2012 regulations will continue to remain in effect as the court seeks expert opinion for a redraft. The matter is scheduled for its next hearing on 19th March, as stakeholders from the BJP, Congress, and student communities react to the potential for internal rifts and the necessity for robust equity guidelines in higher education.
This news report examines the intense controversy surrounding the new UGC 2026 equity norms aimed at curbing campus discrimination. While the Congress student wing, NSUI, has welcomed the move, stating 'it's important to address discrimination on campus,' students from general categories have labeled the law 'draconian,' fearing it may divide classrooms along class lines. The regulations, influenced by a parliamentary committee chaired by Digvijay Singh and following Supreme Court directions, explicitly include disability and OBC harassment as grounds for discrimination. The bulletin highlights that while groups like ABVP seek more clarity, others like the Left-leaning AISA question the implementation. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has assured that the law will not be misused and emphasizes the government's commitment to fairness. The report also notes political escalations, including protests at the UGC headquarters and the resignation of an SDM in Uttar Pradesh, as the debate over a potential caste census continues to influence the discourse.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating political and bureaucratic storm in Uttar Pradesh following a controversy at the Magh Mela in Prayagraj. Ayodhya GST Deputy Commissioner Prashant Kumar Singh has resigned from his post, stating, 'In support of Mouni Yogi Adityanath, in support of India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in support of Mouni Amit Shah, and in opposition to Swami Aumyukteshwaranand Shankaracharya.' Singh's resignation follows the departure of Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri, who cited the alleged mistreatment of the Shankaracharya's disciples. The Uttar Pradesh government has since suspended Agnihotri and ordered a departmental inquiry. The row began on January 18 during Mouni Amavasya when authorities reportedly blocked the movement of Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, leading to a sit-in protest. The situation has triggered a sharp face-off between the BJP and opposition parties like the Congress and Samajwadi Party, who allege attempts to polarise the state.
On this Special Report, India Today examines the escalating controversy surrounding the new University Grants Commission (UGC) equity directives aimed at curbing campus caste discrimination. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan defended the regulations, stating, 'In the name of discrimination, no one will have the right to misuse it.' While the government insists the law remains within constitutional bounds, widespread protests have broken out in Delhi, Bareilly, and Meerut. Critics and student groups argue the guidelines lack verification mechanisms for complaints and fail to provide protection against malicious allegations, potentially harming the mental health and careers of the accused. The report highlights the resignation of Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri in protest and the demands from various student outfits for either a total rollback or significant amendments to the policy. The matter has now reached the Supreme Court via a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the fairness of these new campus regulations.
This news bulletin explores the significant impact of the India-European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on the Indian economy. Industry body CII has hailed the pact as a 'landmark agreement' that is expected to deliver 'tangible gains for labour intensive sectors and MSMEs'. The report details how sectors such as textiles, leather, and gems and jewellery will gain duty-free access to 27 European markets, potentially providing a 6.4 lakh crore export boost. Crucially, the agreement protects India's sensitive dairy and agricultural sectors to safeguard farmers' interests. Beyond trade, the bulletin highlights a historic shift as the two entities launch their first-ever security and defence partnership, focusing on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and cyber threats. The programme further breaks down state-wise benefits, noting how industrial hubs like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu stand to gain from increased electronics and engineering exports while strengthening strategic resilience through a trust-based platform for cooperation.
Praveen Chakravarty, Chairman of Professionals Congress and Data Analytics, discusses his analysis of the Padma Awards on India Today. He alleges an 'electionization' of the honours, claiming that a disproportionate number of awardees—over 35 percent in 2026—hail from states scheduled for upcoming elections. Chakravarty argues that this pattern has been consistent since 2020, suggesting the awards are used as political instruments. While expressing pride in awardees from South India, including actor Mammootty and musicians Ranjani-Gayatri, he questions why the share of awards for these states drops significantly during non-election years. The discussion also addresses historical data suggesting similar trends under previous governments. Chakravarty maintains that while the recipients may be deserving, the timing of the announcements is driven by electoral motives. He concludes by stating that in the world's largest democracy, elections should not be the sole driver of every national institution and recognition.
On this Special Report, India Today’s Preeti Choudhry anchors the live coverage of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations from Kartavya Path. The bulletin highlights the historic decoration of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a key member of the Gaganyaan mission, marking a significant milestone for India’s space-faring ambitions. Preeti Choudhry notes, 'It basically tells us where we want to be, where India wants to be in the committee of space-faring nations.' The programme also discusses the announcement of 131 Padma Awards for 2026, including a posthumous honour for actor Dharmendra. Joining the conversation, Lieutenant General Sanjay Kulkarni reflects on the pride and rigorous selection process for regiments marching in the parade. The discussion underscores the evolution of India’s military technology and the symbolic importance of gallantry award winners leading the contingents, showcasing the nation's 'brains and brawn' on the global stage.
In the first Mann Ki Baat of 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation, emphasizing India's transition into a global startup powerhouse and the critical need for manufacturing excellence. Highlighting the 10th anniversary of the Startup India initiative, the Prime Minister stated, 'The meaning of Indian product should be top quality,' urging citizens to move past the 'it works' attitude and adopt a 'Zero Defect, Zero Effect' approach. He lauded the youth for driving innovation in sectors like AI, Space, and Green Hydrogen. The Prime Minister also celebrated National Voters' Day, encouraging new voters to recognize their role in the democracy. The address covered diverse grassroots success stories, including river rejuvenation in Uttar Pradesh, water conservation in Andhra Pradesh, and the global popularity of Indian millets. Additionally, he praised the Indian diaspora in Malaysia for preserving cultural heritage and looked forward to the upcoming India AI Impact Summit.
This news bulletin reports on the significant exit of senior leader Shakeel Ahmed from the Congress Party amid escalating internal tensions. Criticising the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Ahmed stated that Rahul Gandhi is an 'insecure, derpok leader who is dictatorial and does not listen to senior netas in the party.' The report highlights Ahmed's claims that Gandhi only promotes those who praise him, suggesting a deep divide within the organisation. The Bharatiya Janata Party has capitalised on this development, asserting that Gandhi’s 'real face' has been exposed and predicting a wider revolt against the Gandhi-Vadra leadership. While the BJP claims internal rifts are responsible for Congress's electoral losses, Congress loyalists have defended the leadership, arguing that Gandhi nurtures talent and suggesting Ahmed's departure stems from personal disappointment over unmet goals. The segment also touches upon the 'cold war' involving Shashi Tharoor and the career concerns of the next generation of leaders within the party.
On this Special Report, India Today’s Ashish Srivastava investigates a conversion racket operating in Uttar Pradesh's Mirzapur. The reporter highlights the seizure of luxury XUVs, including a black and blue vehicle and another with the registration UP638W334, which were allegedly used by the accused to lure women. Ashish Srivastava notes, 'They are using these cars, these XUVs cars for trapping the girls which are coming to gym and they are joining a gym.' The report details how the gang members lived a 'royal life' while operating between Mirzapur and Lucknow, using black-filmed windows and scarves to conceal their identities. According to the police investigation, six individuals have been arrested so far, while two others remain at large. The reporter explains that the gang specifically targeted women at local gyms, using the high-end vehicles as part of their 'Jim Jihad' operation. The investigation into the eight-member gang continues as authorities track the remaining suspects involved in this long-running racket.
On this Special Report, Shreya Chatterjee provides critical updates on the investigation into the tragic death of a Noida techie, Yuvraj. A three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) has reached the Noida Authority and is scheduled to submit its final report to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister today. Shreya Chatterjee notes that 'Those videos are somewhere down the line, very important evidence before the SIT because it is the presence of the SDRF, of the police, of the spot when Yuvraj's entire rescue operation was being conducted.' The report highlights two new videos that raise serious questions about the response time and the conduct of officials who were present at the scene but allegedly failed to act. The SIT is currently probing the level of communication between the SDRF, police, and Noida Authority, while the latter faces scrutiny for leaving a waterlogged pit open without barricades or signage for years. The family of the deceased has met with SIT officials as the probe enters its final leg.
