Difference between Cognizable and Non-Cognizable offenses

Under the CrPC: 1. Cognizable Offense (e.g., Murder, Theft, Kidnapping): Police can register an FIR, start investigation, and arrest the suspect without a warrant from a magistrate. 2. Non-Cognizable Offense (e.g., Simple defamation, minor assault): Police cannot arrest without a warrant, and need permission from the Magistrate to investigate. The list of these offenses is found in Schedule II of the CrPC.