Indians deported from the US being escorted by the police as they leave the airport after their arrival, in Amritsar, early Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025.
| Photo Credit: –

Deportations from U.S. put spotlight on human trafficking syndicates

Large-scale deportation of illegal immigrants from the United States to India has put the spotlight on human trafficking syndicates. While police forces of many States are looking into the cases, experts suggest that Central agencies like the National Investigation Agency, Central Bureau of Investigation, and the Enforcement Directorate, can step in for a comprehensive probe as such agencies have international tie-ups.

Full list of Delhi Ministers

Rekha Gupta, the BJP’s debutante MLA from Shalimar Bagh, took oath as the fourth woman Chief Minister of Delhi on Thursday (February 20, 2025). Delhi’s Lieutenant-Governor Vinay Saxena administered the oath of office to her during a ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan, attended by several BJP and NDA leaders.

Nepalese student death: Odisha government panel summons KIIT founder Achyuta Samanta over student unrest 

Achyuta Samanta, the founder of Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), a deemed to be university, has been summoned to appear before a high-level committee on Friday (February 21, 2025) following allegations of ill-treatment of Nepalese students on campus.

Delhi Cabinet decides to implement Ayushman Bharat, table CAG reports

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday (February 20, 2025) said the Cabinet had decided in its first meeting to implement the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, and also to table 14 pending Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports in the Delhi Assembly.

Amit Shah appeals to Northeast insurgents to join mainstream

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday appealed to the last of the remaining insurgent groups active in the Northeast to lay down arms and join the mainstream. He said by 2027, all the Northeastern States will be connected by air and rail.

NGOs aligned with Congress attempted to influence polls in country, says BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday alleged that NGOs aligned with the Congress and against Prime Minister Narendra Modi have attempted to influence elections in India, citing the remarks of U.S. President Donald Trump about the previous Biden administration’s decision to allocate $21 million to fund “voter turnout” in India.

Infiltration has ‘gone down substantially’ after change of Bangladesh regime, says BSF chief

Infiltration along the Bangladesh border had “gone down substantially” after the political developments in the neighbouring country in August 2024, Border Security Force (BSF) chief Daljit Singh Chawdhary said on Thursday (February 20, 2025). He further said the Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) stood shoulder to shoulder with the BSF to maintain peace and tranquillity throughout the “crisis” period.  

Kharge slams government over reports that China has built 90 villages near Arunachal Pradesh

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday (February 20, 2025) slammed the Narendra Modi government over news reports that China was settling 90 new villages along the Arunachal Pradesh border.

Israel grieves as Hamas turns over the bodies of four Gaza hostages

Hamas on Thursday (February 20, 2025) released the bodies of four Israeli hostages, said to include a mother and her two children who have long been feared dead and had come to embody the nation’s agony following the October 7, 2023, attack.

Explosions involving several buses in central Israel in ‘suspected terror attack’: police

Israeli police said that explosions rocked several buses in the central city of Bat Yam on Thursday evening in what they described as a “suspected terror attack”, with an official saying that there were no injuries.

Trump loyalist Kash Patel is confirmed as FBI director by the Senate despite deep Democratic doubts

The Senate on Thursday narrowly voted to confirm Kash Patel as director of the FBI, moving to place him atop the nation’s premier federal law enforcement agency despite doubts from Democrats about his qualifications and concerns he will do Donald Trump’s bidding and go after the Republican president’s adversaries.

Sri Lanka not seeking to renegotiate Adani power deal, says top official from Energy Ministry

Colombo is not seeking to renegotiate the contentious renewable energy project with Adani Green, a top Sri Lankan official said, a week after the company abruptly pulled out of a wind farm initiative in the island’s Northern Province. 

Shami, Gill do the star turn as India trumps Bangladesh with ease

Shubman Gill’s previous three scores coming into the Champions Trophy read: 87, 60 and 112 (all against England). On Thursday, the 25-year-old continued his purple patch as he smashed his eighth ODI hundred (101 n.o, 129b, 9×4, 2×6) to help India kickstart its Champions Trophy campaign with a six-wicket win over Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Rohit Sharma becomes second fastest to complete 11,000 runs in ODI cricket

India captain Rohit Sharma on Thursday became the second fastest batter after compatriot Virat Kohli to complete 11,000 runs in One-day Internationals during their Champions Trophy clash against Bangladesh here.

Rekha Gupta, the debutante MLA from Shalimar Bagh, has been chosen to be Delhi’s next Chief Minister.
| Photo Credit: ANI

Rekha Gupta, first-time MLA, named as Delhi Chief Minister

Rekha Gupta, the debutante MLA from Shalimar Bagh, has been chosen to be Delhi’s next Chief Minister, the Bharatiya Janata Party said after a Delhi legislative party meeting at its national headquarters on Wednesday evening. Ms. Gupta, 50, will be the fourth woman to head the government in the State.

Delhi CM pick Rekha Gupta is a grassroots leader with RSS–ABVP background 

With a 30-year career in politics, Shalimar Bagh’s Rekha Gupta is set to take over as the next Chief Minister of Delhi on February 20. A grassroots leader with an RSS–ABVP background, she began her political journey while she was a B.Com student at Delhi University’s Daulat Ram College. She joined the Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) in 1992. 

Maha Kumbh 2025: NGT pulls up U.P. Pollution Control Board for inadequate info on high faecal coliform bacteria levels

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Wednesday pulled up the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) for not submitting adequate information to the court, including onfaecal coliform levels in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers at Prayagraj during the ongoing Maha Kumbh. 

Four women Maoists killed in encounter with police in Madhya Pradesh’s Balaghat

At least four women Maoist operatives were gunned down by Madhya Pradesh Police during an encounter in Balaghat district on Wednesday (February 19, 2025), officials said, adding that a search operation is going on to find the outlawed organisation’s fighters who were injured.

Will Modi govt. respond to U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s query on Gautam Adani, asks Congress 

The Congress on Wednesday (February 19, 2025) asked whether the Narendra Modi government would respond to the U.S. Securities and Exchanges Commission’s (SEC) request in the ongoing probe against the Adani group since the Prime Minister had already declared the Adani issue to be a “personal matter”.

Ranveer Allahbadia case: What has Supreme Court previously ruled on ‘onerous’ conditions and gag orders? 

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (February 18, 2025) granted interim protection from arrest to podcaster and influencer Ranveer Allahbadia in connection with the first information reports (FIRs) registered against him over remarks made on the YouTube show “India Got Latent”. 

Zelenskyy ‘a dictator without elections’, says Trump as Ukraine President accuses him of living in ‘Russian-made disinformation space’

Relations between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump deteriorated rapidly on Wednesday (February 19, 2025) as Mr. Zelenskyy said Mr. Trump was living in a Russian-made “disinformation space” and Trump called Zelenskyy “a dictator without elections” in comments that were sure to complicate efforts to end the war.

Gunmen identify, kill seven Punjabi travellers in Pakistan: govt official

Gunmen in volatile southwest Pakistan shot seven bus passengers dead after identifying them as being from another region, officials said Wednesday (February 18, 2025) .Security forces have been battling sectarian, ethnic and separatist violence for decades in impoverished but mineral-rich Balochistan, which borders Afghanistan and Iran.

Russia praises Trump for saying NATO was a major cause of war in Ukraine

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov lauded U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday (February 19, 2025) for saying that previous U.S. support of Ukraine’s bid to join the NATO military alliance was a major cause of the war in Ukraine.

Infosys denies using intimidation tactics on Mysuru campus

IT services company Infosys on Wednesday said it did not use force or intimidation tactics when it laid off trainees at Mysuru campus over performance-related issues, and that it was explaining the circumstances to the labour department authorities.

U.S. SEC asks India’s Law Ministry to serve its complaint to Adanis

Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order to hit the pause button on the U.S. anti-bribery law — a move viewed as a big relief for Indian billionaire and top industrialist Gautam Adani — the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has now written to Indian authorities to serve a complaint on the Adani Group founder and his nephew Sagar Adani for their alleged involvement in securities fraud and a $265 million bribery scheme, according to a court filing.

Apple iPhone 16e launched with A18 processor, 48 MP camera and Apple Intelligence

Ending speculation about its new launch, Apple on Wednesday (February 19, 2025) launched the new iPhone 16e instead of the iPhone SE 4 featuring the new A18 processor, Apple Intelligence and iOS 18 out-of-the-box. With the new iPhone 16e, the U.S. based company introduced a new identity of ‘e’ phones in its cavalry.

Champions Trophy 2025: New Zealand beat defending champions Pakistan by 60 runs in opening match

New Zealand underlined their title aspirations with a 60-run victory against defending champions Pakistan in a Group A match of the Champions Trophy at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday (February 19, 2025).

Gavaskar pays glowing tributes to Rege; says Mumbai cricket was his life

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar paid tribute to former Mumbai captain and selector Milind Rege, who passed away in Mumbai on Wednesday. 

WPL | Lanning’s experience to the fore as Capitals battle past Warriorz

There was no change in the pattern on Wednesday night in WPL 3. The first leg of the league ended at the BCA Stadium with Delhi Capitals beating UP Warriorz by seven wickets with a ball to spare.

Gautam Adani. File
| Photo Credit: Reuters

U.S. SEC seeks help from Law Ministry to serve complaint to Gautam Adani, nephew Sagar in Adani bribery case

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has requested assistance from Indian authorities in its investigation of Adani Group founder Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar Adani over alleged securities fraud and a $265 million bribery scheme, a court filing showed on Tuesday (February 18, 2025).

Gyanesh Kumar to take over as CEC on February 19; Supreme Court to hear plea against law under which he was appointed

Senior Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar would take over as the 26th Chief Election Commissioner of India (CEC) on February 19, a day when the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a petition challenging the law under which he was appointed CEC by a three-member panel led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Rahul Gandhi says it is ‘disrespectful and discourteous’ to appoint the CEC at midnight, makes his dissent note public

The Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday asserted that the midnight appointment of Gyanesh Kumar as the new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) was “discourteous and disrespectful” when the process of appointment and the composition of the selection committee itself was being challenged before the Supreme Court.

Slight dip in unemployment rate in urban areas: survey

The unemployment rate in the urban areas of the country was 6.4% for the period of October to December 2024 for persons of age 15 years and above, according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation in New Delhi on Tuesday (February 18, 2025). For male, the the unemployment rate was 5.8% during the period, while for female it was 8.1%.

Punjab leads tally of Indians who joined Russian Armed forces; Kerala fourth

Though the ‘irregular’ migration from Kerala to Russia has sparked concerns in the past, recent developments revealed that Punjab is leading in the table in both illegal and irregular migration. According to the data available with the Ministry of External Affairs, the highest number of Indians who migrated to Russia — to fight in the war with Ukraine — were from Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

With terror on the decline in J&K, police must now prioritise safeguarding of citizens rights: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Tuesday (February 18, 2025) that the three new criminal laws should be implemented in Jammu and Kashmir by April. With the decline in terror activities and an improved security scenario, Mr. Shah said that the police should now prioritise safeguarding the rights of citizens in the Union Territory. 

President Droupadi Murmu sanctions prosecution of AAP leader Satyendar Jain

President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday (February 18, 2025) accorded sanction to prosecute Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Minister Satyendar Jain in a money-laundering case being investigated by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), a senior government official said on Friday.

In landmark talks in Riyadh, Russia, U.S. agree to work towards ending Ukraine war

Russia and the U.S. on Tuesday (February 18, 2025) agreed to start working towards ending the war in Ukraine and improving their diplomatic and economic ties, America’s top diplomat said after talks that reflected an extraordinary about-face in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump.

European leaders differ on peacekeeping in post-war Ukraine

European leaders failed to reach a joint position on whether they would send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine, after they discussed the issue of security guarantees for Ukraine and negotiations for an end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict at an emergency summit in Paris on Monday (February 17, 2025). The meeting, convened by French President Emmanuel Macron, was in response to U.S.-Russia talks in Riyadh which left Ukraine and the rest of Europe out of the negotiating room.

Hamas to release six hostages on February 22; four bodies of hostages to be handed over on February 20

The six hostages to be released on Saturday (February 22, 2025) will include Hisham al-Sayed and Avera Mengisto, who were held in Gaza before the start of war there, the Hamas leader in Gaza said on Tuesday (February 18, 2025).

Tesla posts job openings in India after PM-Musk meeting

Electric vehicle maker Tesla, Inc. on Monday (February 18, 2025) posted thirteen job openings in Mumbai, days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the EV firm’s CEO and founder Elon Musk in Washington, DC.

WPL | Mumbai Indians continues domination over Gujarat Giants

The head-to-head record in the WPL became even more embarrassing for the Giants on Tuesday (February 18, 2025) night. After bowling GG out for 120, MI posted a much-needed win by five wickets, with 3.5 overs remaining.

Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has been appointed Chief Election Commissioner after a meeting of a three-member committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Monday (February 17, 2025).

Gyanesh Kumar named Chief Election Commissioner

Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has been appointed Chief Election Commissioner after a meeting of a three-member committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Monday (February 17, 2025). He will assume office on Wednesday (February 19, 2025), when the Supreme Court will hear the challenge to a new law under which the selection has been made.

Delta plane flips on landing at Toronto airport, injuring 19

A Delta Airlines plane flipped upon arrival at Toronto’s Pearson Airport and ended up on its roof Monday, injuring 19 people including three who are in critical condition.

Manipur MLAs get calls in Jay Shah’s name; ministerial positions offered

After the President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur, several of the State’s legislators received calls from a person who allegedly identified himself as Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s son Jay Shah and offered them ministerial positions for a sum of ₹4 crore, police officials said on Monday (February 17, 2025).

High levels of microbes from human, animal excreta found in river water at Maha Kumbh: report 

High levels of faecal coliform (microbes from human and animal excreta) were found in river water in which people took holy dip during Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj of Uttar Pradesh, according to a report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Experts intrigued by inclusion of electoral bonds in new Income Tax Bill

Experts are intrigued by the new Income Tax Bill, 2025 retaining provisions related to electoral bonds, which were rendered unconstitutional by the Supreme Court last year, saying it could be because of legislative oversight or the government’s intention to bring it back in some other form.

Bangladesh Border Guard delegation arrives in India for talks with BSF 

A high-level delegation of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) reached New Delhi on Monday (February 17, 2025) for the bi-annual Director General level talks with the Border Security Force (BSF).

FII outflows show India offering higher returns to investors: FM

Foreign Institutional Investment (FII) outflows from India’s equity markets show that investors are booking profits, indicating investments in India are yielding good returns, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman said at a post-Budget media briefing in Mumbai on Monday (February 17, 2025).

UK PM Starmer says U.S. must provide security guarantee for Ukraine to deter Russia

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday that a U.S. security commitment was the only way to ensure lasting peace in Ukraine and it was too early to say how many British peacekeeping troops he would be willing to deploy.

Musk’s DOGE seeks access to U.S. tax system: reports

Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has sparked alarm by seeking access to a system with the US tax office that has detailed financial data about millions of Americans, U.S. media reported.

Cannot justify Adani’s ‘excessive tariff’, Sri Lanka’s President Dissanayake tells Parliament

Days after Adani Green announced quitting from a controversial renewable energy project in Sri Lanka, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said awarding energy projects at an “excessive tariff” of $8.26 cents “cannot be justified”. While welcoming energy investments based on a competitive tariff, Sri Lanka will not privilege a specific company or country, he said on Monday (February 17, 2025), without naming Adani or India.

WPL | Smriti’s blistering knock blistering knock makes it a cakewalk for RCB

Smriti Mandhana’s women came up with a near perfect performance on Monday night to post their second win in as many matches in the third edition of the WPL. After bowling out Delhi Capitals for 141, RCB romped home with eight wickets and 3.4 overs to spare.

Cricket fever grips Pakistan ahead of Champions Trophy

Cricket fever has gripped Pakistan as the Champions Trophy unfolds with fans eagerly waiting for the action to begin here on Wednesday and businesses related to the game too picking up before the tournament opener between hosts Pakistan and New Zealand.

Representational image of a seismograph recording an earthquake. Photo: via Reuters

Third group of deportees from U.S. land in Punjab’s Amritsar

A United States aircraft carrying around 112 undocumented Indian immigrants, deported from the U.S. landed at Punjab’s Amritsar International Airport on Sunday night (February 16, 2025), even as Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann urged the youth of Punjab to learn lessons from the deportation of illegal migrants, appealing to them to shun the idea of going abroad by wrong means.

High-level committee formed to probe into New Delhi railway station stampede

The Railways has formed a two-member high-level administrative grade committee to investigate the stampede that occurred on Saturday night (February 15, 2025) at New Delhi Railway Station, officials in the Ministry of Railways said on Sunday (February 16, 2025). The committee of Northern Railways’ Principal Chief Commercial Manager Narsingh Deo and Principal Chief Security Commissioner Pankaj Gangwar will investigate the stampede that claimed 18 lives, including four children and a septuagenarian woman.

Delhi earthquake: Strong tremors felt across National Capital Region on February 17 morning

An earthquake of 4.0 magnitude rocked parts of Delhi-NCR early on Monday (February 17, 2025), the National Center for Seismology said. The tremors rocked several parts of the city and the adjoining National Capital Region. The location of the earthquake was New Delhi, at a depth of five kilometres, it said in a post on X.

Pakistani troops opened small arm fire on Indian post at LoC in Poonch: Army

A fresh exchange of fire was reported on the Line of Control (LoC) in the Pir Panjal Valley’s Poonch on Sunday. No casualties were reported in the incident. An Army official said a brief exchange of fire took place on the LoC in Poonch district. “Around 11 a.m., Pakistan troops opened fire from small arms on an Indian post across the LoC in Poonch sector. The fire was retaliated appropriately by the Indian Army. No casualties to our side,” an Army official said. 

Jaishankar meets Foreign Ministers of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and other south Asian counterparts

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain in Muscat on Sunday (February 16, 2025), in a meeting aimed at defusing tensions and addressing “challenges” between Delhi and Dhaka over attacks on minorities and the continued stay of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India.

PM Modi hopeful of achieving ₹9 lakh-cr textile exports ahead of 2030 deadline

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (February 16, 2025) said he is optimistic that the textile sector will achieve the Rs 9 lakh crore annual exports target ahead of the 2030 deadline.

Former Indian Navy officials jailed in Qatari prison call for return of colleague left behind

A day before the arrival of the Qatari Emir to India for an important visit, the seven former Indian Navy officials who returned last year after being imprisoned for nearly 18 months in Doha, have called for the repatriation of the last remaining Indian who is stuck in the Gulf sheikhdom.

Will U.S.’s F-35 stealth fighter jets fit into IAF’s future plans? 

Early last week fifth generation fighter aircraft (FGFA) of both Russia and U.S. were at Aero India in Bengaluru, positioned at each end of the static display at the Yelahanka Air Force station. Just as the business days of the show came to an end, U.S. President Donald Trump, standing next to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a visit to Washington DC, announced that they will be increasing military sales to India “by many billions of dollars” and they are also paving the way to “ultimately” provide India with the F-35 stealth fighters.

At least nine people are dead, including eight in Kentucky, amid latest blast of winter weather

At least nine people have died in the most recent round of harsh weather to pummel the U.S., including eight people in Kentucky who died as creeks swelled from heavy rain and water covered roads. 

Trump administration cuts reach FDA employees in food safety, medical devices and tobacco products

The Trump administration’s effort to slash the size of the federal workforce reached the Food and Drug Administration this weekend, as recently hired employees who review the safety of food ingredients, medical devices and other products were fired.

Rwanda-backed rebels reach centre of east Congo’s 2nd major city in unprecedented expansion

Rwanda-backed rebels reached the centre of east Congo’s second-largest city, Bukavu, on Sunday (February 16, 2025) morning and took control of the South Kivu province administrative office after little resistance from government forces, many of whom fled the rebels’ advance. 

Musk says chatbot Grok 3 will be unveiled on February 17

Elon Musk said his startup xAI will release its Grok 3 chatbot on Monday (February 17, 2025) and billed it as the “smartest AI on Earth” in a fiercely competitive market.

IPL 2025 schedule: KKR vs RCB at Eden to kick off season

The BCCI on Sunday (February 16, 2025) unveiled a 74-match schedule for the 18th Indian Premier League that will be held across 13 venues, starting on March 22 with three franchises playing at least a couple of their home games at their designated second bases.

WPL | Gardner’s all-round effort and Priya’s spell turn the tide in Giants’ favour

Priya Mishra didn’t get a game in last year’s WPL. And when she finally made her debut for Gujarat Giants, in the Season 3 opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, she went for plenty.

Passengers crowd to board a train for Maha Kumbh from the New Delhi railway station on Saturday.

New Delhi railway station stampede: 15 dead, 11 injured 

Fifteen people, including three children, lost their lives in a stampede at the New Delhi railway station on Saturday night (February 15, 2025).  Eleven others were injured, according to the Chief Casualty Medical Officer, LNJP Hospital. Speaking to The Hindu, Delhi Fire Services chief Atul Garg said the cause of the stampede was unclear, but initial reports suggested that cancellation of two trains to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh led to crowding and chaos on two platforms. 

U.S. flight brings second batch of 116 deportees

A United States aircraft carrying a batch of 116 alleged illegal migrants from India, who were deported from the U.S., landed at Punjab’s Amritsar International Airport on Saturday night .This was the second group of Indian citizens to be sent back from the U.S. after President Donald Trump started a crackdown on illegal immigrants. On February 5, a U.S. military plane brought 104 illegal immigrants, in handcuffs and chains, to Amritsar, inviting sharp criticism from the Opposition.

After Modi-Trump talks on Delhi-Dhaka tensions, Jaishankar to meet Bangladesh FM in Muscat 

Amidst troubled ties with Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will meet Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain on the sidelines of the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat on Sunday (February 16, 2025), sources confirmed.

YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia apologises again, says he’s scared over death threats

Popular YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia apologised for his remark on parents again on Saturday (February 15, 2025) but said he feels scared as he and his family are receiving death threats. Mr. Allahbadia, one of the most influential podcasters with over 16 million followers across social media platforms, landed in a major controversy over his comment on parents and sex at Samay Raina’s comedy show “India’s Got Latent”.

Bengaluru court hands over to T.N. government jewellery seized from Jayalalithaa, others in disproportionate assets case

A special court in Bengaluru on February 15 (Saturday) handed over to the Tamil Nadu government about 27 kg of gold jewellery, records of 1,526 acres of land, and bank deposits of around ₹10 crore, which were confiscated from former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister late Jayalalithaa and others in the disproportionate assets (DA) case.

Goa ex-MLA dies in Belagavi minutes after assault by auto driver

A former Goa MLA on Saturday (February 15, 2025) collapsed in a hotel and died minutes after he was allegedly assaulted by an auto driver following an argument in neighbouring Karnataka, an official said.

Kashi Tamil Sangamam embodies the heritage of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat’: Yogi Adityanath

Inaugurating the third edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi on Saturday (February 15, 2025), Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the unique event signifies India’s cultural foundations, noting that Kashi and Tamil Nadu share an emotional and creative bond since time immemorial. 

India, U.S. identify underwater domain awareness technologies for co-production in India

India and the United States are scaling up their cooperation in underwater domain awareness (UDA), a key focus for both countries, with a new initiative, the Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA), announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Washington. 

Germany’s Scholz rebukes Vance, defends Europe’s stance on hate speech and far right

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz delivered a strong rebuke on Saturday (February 15, 2025) to U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance’s attack on Europe’s stance toward hate speech and the far right, saying it was not right for others to tell Germany and Europe what to do.

Israel and Hamas complete their latest exchange as ceasefire’s first phase has just 2 weeks left

Israel and Hamas completed the sixth exchange of hostages and Palestinian prisoners on Saturday with just over two weeks remaining in their fragile Gaza ceasefire’s initial phase, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio landed in Israel to begin a Mideast tour.

Top-ranked Jannik Sinner accepts three-month ban in settlement of doping case

Tennis world number one Jannik Sinner has accepted a three-month ban for doping having tested positive for a banned substance last year following a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), it said on Saturday (February 15, 2025).

Sneh Rana joins RCB as injury replacement for Shreyanka Patil

Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Saturday drafted in Sneh Rana as replacement for injured Shreyanka Patil for the remainder of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 .Shreyanka, who has played 15 matches for RCB and has scalped 19 wickets with her off-spin, is ruled out of the third edition of tournament due to an unspecified injury.

Focus on Rohit and Kohli as Team India lands in Dubai for Champions Trophy

The Indian team made its touch down in the city on Saturday, hoping to bag the ICC Champions Trophy, starting from February 18, for the second time since 2013. India had last won the ICC marquee event in England 12 years back under the legendary MS Dhoni. The players and support staff trooped into a waiting bus, in line with the new BCCI diktat of travelling as a group, before proceeding to the designated team hotel.

Passengers crowd to board a train for Maha Kumbh from the New Delhi railway station on Saturday.

New Delhi railway station stampede: 15 dead, 11 injured 

Fifteen people, including three children, lost their lives in a stampede at the New Delhi railway station on Saturday night (February 15, 2025).  Eleven others were injured, according to the Chief Casualty Medical Officer, LNJP Hospital. Speaking to The Hindu, Delhi Fire Services chief Atul Garg said the cause of the stampede was unclear, but initial reports suggested that cancellation of two trains to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh led to crowding and chaos on two platforms. 

U.S. flight brings second batch of 116 deportees

A United States aircraft carrying a batch of 116 alleged illegal migrants from India, who were deported from the U.S., landed at Punjab’s Amritsar International Airport on Saturday night .This was the second group of Indian citizens to be sent back from the U.S. after President Donald Trump started a crackdown on illegal immigrants. On February 5, a U.S. military plane brought 104 illegal immigrants, in handcuffs and chains, to Amritsar, inviting sharp criticism from the Opposition.

After Modi-Trump talks on Delhi-Dhaka tensions, Jaishankar to meet Bangladesh FM in Muscat 

Amidst troubled ties with Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will meet Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain on the sidelines of the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat on Sunday (February 16, 2025), sources confirmed.

YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia apologises again, says he’s scared over death threats

Popular YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia apologised for his remark on parents again on Saturday (February 15, 2025) but said he feels scared as he and his family are receiving death threats. Mr. Allahbadia, one of the most influential podcasters with over 16 million followers across social media platforms, landed in a major controversy over his comment on parents and sex at Samay Raina’s comedy show “India’s Got Latent”.

Bengaluru court hands over to T.N. government jewellery seized from Jayalalithaa, others in disproportionate assets case

A special court in Bengaluru on February 15 (Saturday) handed over to the Tamil Nadu government about 27 kg of gold jewellery, records of 1,526 acres of land, and bank deposits of around ₹10 crore, which were confiscated from former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister late Jayalalithaa and others in the disproportionate assets (DA) case.

Goa ex-MLA dies in Belagavi minutes after assault by auto driver

A former Goa MLA on Saturday (February 15, 2025) collapsed in a hotel and died minutes after he was allegedly assaulted by an auto driver following an argument in neighbouring Karnataka, an official said.

Kashi Tamil Sangamam embodies the heritage of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat’: Yogi Adityanath

Inaugurating the third edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi on Saturday (February 15, 2025), Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the unique event signifies India’s cultural foundations, noting that Kashi and Tamil Nadu share an emotional and creative bond since time immemorial. 

India, U.S. identify underwater domain awareness technologies for co-production in India

India and the United States are scaling up their cooperation in underwater domain awareness (UDA), a key focus for both countries, with a new initiative, the Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA), announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Washington. 

Germany’s Scholz rebukes Vance, defends Europe’s stance on hate speech and far right

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz delivered a strong rebuke on Saturday (February 15, 2025) to U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance’s attack on Europe’s stance toward hate speech and the far right, saying it was not right for others to tell Germany and Europe what to do.

Israel and Hamas complete their latest exchange as ceasefire’s first phase has just 2 weeks left

Israel and Hamas completed the sixth exchange of hostages and Palestinian prisoners on Saturday with just over two weeks remaining in their fragile Gaza ceasefire’s initial phase, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio landed in Israel to begin a Mideast tour.

Top-ranked Jannik Sinner accepts three-month ban in settlement of doping case

Tennis world number one Jannik Sinner has accepted a three-month ban for doping having tested positive for a banned substance last year following a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), it said on Saturday (February 15, 2025).

Sneh Rana joins RCB as injury replacement for Shreyanka Patil

Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Saturday drafted in Sneh Rana as replacement for injured Shreyanka Patil for the remainder of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 .Shreyanka, who has played 15 matches for RCB and has scalped 19 wickets with her off-spin, is ruled out of the third edition of tournament due to an unspecified injury.

Focus on Rohit and Kohli as Team India lands in Dubai for Champions Trophy

The Indian team made its touch down in the city on Saturday, hoping to bag the ICC Champions Trophy, starting from February 18, for the second time since 2013. India had last won the ICC marquee event in England 12 years back under the legendary MS Dhoni. The players and support staff trooped into a waiting bus, in line with the new BCCI diktat of travelling as a group, before proceeding to the designated team hotel.

New Delhi:

An Indian-origin doctor was among two killed in a light aircraft crash off the coast of UAE’s Ras Al Khaimah on Sunday. The crash claimed the lives of both the pilot and co-pilot, the General Civil Aviation Authority said in a statement.

Sulaymaan Al Majid was co-piloting the aircraft with a 26-year-old Pakistani woman who also died in the accident.

Born and raised in the UAE, 26-year-old Sulaymaan had hired the plane for a sightseeing experience with his family. His father, mother, and younger brother were at the aviation club to watch the flight, according to reports.

Sulaymaan’s younger brother was scheduled to take the next flight, as per the reports.

“We were looking forward to the New Year as a family, planning to celebrate together. Instead, our lives have been shattered. It feels like time has stopped for us. Sulaymaan was the light of our lives, and we don’t know how to move forward without him,” Sulaymaan’s father was quoted as saying by the UAE-based newspaper Khaleej Times.

The crash occurred shortly after takeoff near the Cove Rotana Hotel along the beach, said the aviation authority.

“Initial reports suggest the glider lost radio contact and later attempted an emergency landing. Despite resuscitation efforts, both occupants succumbed to their injuries,” the aviation authority added.

Sulaymaan was a clinical fellow at the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust in the UK, according to his LinkedIn profile. He was actively involved with the British Medical Association (BMA), where he served as Honorary Secretary and later as co-chair of the Northern Resident Doctors Committee. During his tenure, he focused on advocating for fair pay and promoting the reclassification of “junior doctors” to “resident doctors.”

The aviation authority has launched an investigation “to determine the cause” of the deadly crash.

New Delhi:

An Indian-origin doctor was among two killed in a light aircraft crash off the coast of UAE’s Ras Al Khaimah on Sunday. The crash claimed the lives of both the pilot and co-pilot, the General Civil Aviation Authority said in a statement.

Sulaymaan Al Majid was co-piloting the aircraft with a 26-year-old Pakistani woman who also died in the accident.

Born and raised in the UAE, 26-year-old Sulaymaan had hired the plane for a sightseeing experience with his family. His father, mother, and younger brother were at the aviation club to watch the flight, according to reports.

Sulaymaan’s younger brother was scheduled to take the next flight, as per the reports.

“We were looking forward to the New Year as a family, planning to celebrate together. Instead, our lives have been shattered. It feels like time has stopped for us. Sulaymaan was the light of our lives, and we don’t know how to move forward without him,” Sulaymaan’s father was quoted as saying by the UAE-based newspaper Khaleej Times.

The crash occurred shortly after takeoff near the Cove Rotana Hotel along the beach, said the aviation authority.

“Initial reports suggest the glider lost radio contact and later attempted an emergency landing. Despite resuscitation efforts, both occupants succumbed to their injuries,” the aviation authority added.

Sulaymaan was a clinical fellow at the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust in the UK, according to his LinkedIn profile. He was actively involved with the British Medical Association (BMA), where he served as Honorary Secretary and later as co-chair of the Northern Resident Doctors Committee. During his tenure, he focused on advocating for fair pay and promoting the reclassification of “junior doctors” to “resident doctors.”

The aviation authority has launched an investigation “to determine the cause” of the deadly crash.

The Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland has issued a statement threatening to “resume violent armed resistance against India”. File photo
| Photo Credit: PTI

NSCN-IM threatens armed violence for first time after signing framework agreement in 2015

For the first time since signing a framework agreement in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) has issued a statement threatening to “resume violent armed resistance against India”. The NSCN-IM warned it would resume the struggle if the Centre does not agree for third-party intervention to address its demands, which include a separate flag and constitution for the Nagas.

Minority status: Aligarh Muslim University celebrates ‘historic’ Supreme Court verdict

A wave of celebration pervaded Aligarh Muslim University after the Supreme Court judgment on Friday (November 8, 2024) affirmed the right of the central university to seek minority status. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Naima Khatoon said, “We humbly accept the judgment of the Constitution Bench and are discussing the details with our legal experts.”

Fear, intimidation will only yield unnatural peace in J&K: Omar Abdullah

Expressing satisfaction over the passage of a resolution calling for restoration of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in the State Assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday (November 8, 2024) said people “have to be partners in peace, and fear and intimidation will only yield unnatural peace” in J&K.

No power in the world can restore Article 370 in J&K: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (November 8, 2024) accused the Congress-led INDIA bloc of wanting to take the Constitution out of Jammu and Kashmir and asserted that no power in the world can restore Article 370 there.

Lokpal seeks SEBI chief’s response on conflict of interest charges

Anti-corruption watchdog Lokpal on Friday (November 8, 2024) sought an explanation from the chief of India’s stock market regulator, Madhabi Puri Buch, on the conflict of interest charges levelled against her in three separate complaints that cited a recent report from the U.S.-based shortseller firm, Hindenburg Research.

Submit tapes on Manipur CM Biren Singh’s ‘role’ in riots, Supreme Court tells Kuki group 

The Supreme Court on Friday (November 8, 2024) ordered a Kuki organisation, represented by advocate Prashant Bhushan, to produce audio tapes to substantiate its claim that Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh was instrumental in inciting and organising violencein the northeastern State which led to the loss of many lives.

Trial run of centralised PF pension system is successful, says Centre

The pilot run of the proposed Centralised Pension Payments System (CPPS) under the employees’ pension scheme (EPS) of the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is successful, the Union Labour Ministry said on Friday, November 8, 2024. 

Racist text messages referencing slavery raise alarms in multiple states and prompt investigations in U.S.

Racist text messages invoking slavery raised alarm across the country this week after they were sent to Black men, women and students, including middle schoolers, prompting inquiries by the FBI and other agencies in the United States.

Notre Dame bells ring out in Paris for first time since 2019 fire

The bells of Notre Dame in Paris rang out together on Friday (November 8, 2024) for the first time since a 2019 fire that devastated the historic cathedral. 

Tata Motors Q2 consolidated net profit declines 11% to ₹3,343 cr

Tata Motors on Friday (November 8, 2024) reported Q2 consolidated net profit down 11% to ₹3,343 crore as compared with ₹3,764 crore in the year ago period.

India vs South Africa 1st T20: Scintillating Samson headlines India’s comfortable 61-run win against Proteas

Sanju Samson’s breathtaking second century was beautifully complemented by spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi as India outclassed South Africa by a whopping 61 runs in the first T20 International to go 1-0 up in the four-match series in Durban on Friday (November 8, 2024).

BCCI vs PCB spar on CT venue as Mohsin Naqvi denies receiving any official note from Indian board

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi, on Friday (November 8, 2024), categorically denied receiving any formal communication from Indian cricket board on its national team not travelling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.