National News

Tourism Minister says 27 hotel, resort and MICE projects approved by SIPB are progressing across the State, with 4,597 new rooms coming up and ₹428 crore secured from the Centre for developing major tourist destinations

India is a tough nut but offers 'best' proposals in trade talks with the US, according to USTR Jamieson Greer. Discussions are underway for a bilateral trade agreement, aiming to resolve tariff issues and boost trade to $500 billion by 2030. Both nations are negotiating a framework deal and a comprehensive agreement.

India's star batter Smriti Mandhana revealed her deep passion for cricket, stating nothing matters more than the sport and wearing the national jersey. Reflecting on the World Cup win, she described it as the culmination of years of hard work and disappointment, a victory for all who paved the way.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu held a telephonic conversation, emphasizing the robust India-Israel strategic partnership. Both leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism and pledged to bolster bilateral relations. They also exchanged views on the West Asia situation, with PM Modi reiterating India's support for a just and lasting peace, including the Gaza Peace Plan.

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Home minister Amit Shah accused the Congress of "vote chori" in Lok Sabha, citing alleged instances involving Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and a pending case against Sonia Gandhi regarding voter registration. Congress MPs protested, with KC Venugopal asserting the case against Sonia Gandhi was dismissed. Shah maintained he stated a fact about a court case.

India's T20I selection against South Africa highlights Jitesh Sharma's preference over Sanju Samson for wicketkeeping, signaling a focus on lower-order batting. The team also appears to favor only one specialist between Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav, prioritizing batting depth. In spin-friendly conditions in the UAE during the Asia Cup, Arshdeep was left out for most matches.

Bangladesh's February 2026 election is pivotal for India's regional security following Sheikh Hasina's ouster. The ban on the Awami League creates a vacuum, potentially empowering parties critical of India. This shift demands a rapid re-evaluation of New Delhi's policy towards its crucial eastern neighbour, impacting connectivity, trade, and counter-insurgency efforts.

Lok Sabha witnessed a heated exchange as Rahul Gandhi challenged Home Minister Amit Shah to a debate on the Special Investigation Report and alleged fake voters. Shah firmly stated he would decide the debate's timing and sequence, asserting parliamentary procedure. He countered 'vote chori' claims, referencing past instances and a Delhi High Court case involving Sonia Gandhi.

Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary warns homebuyers against purchasing oversized properties, calling it a significant financial pitfall. He advises keeping mortgage payments under a third of after-tax income to avoid becoming 'house poor.' O'Leary advocates for a staged approach, starting with a smaller home and upgrading later as finances strengthen, especially with current high mortgage rates.

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon has formed a high-profile advisory council, including tech titans and defense leaders, to guide a massive $1.5 trillion national security spending plan. The initiative aims to bolster American self-reliance by investing in critical technologies and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, particularly China. A new $10 billion fund will back companies in advanced chips and AI.

The National Stock Exchange has introduced a 15-minute pre-open session for equity derivatives, a significant structural change aimed at enhancing stability and transparency. This move follows concerns over retail trader losses and volatility in India's hyperactive derivatives market, with the goal of improving price discovery and preventing erratic trades.

Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in West Bengal are facing immense pressure and exhaustion during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Working 12-16 hour days, they are struggling with tight deadlines, demanding tasks, and fear of consequences, blurring the lines between work and personal life. Political parties blame each other for the strain.

Jitesh Sharma's emergence as the preferred wicketkeeper-batter for the T20 World Cup signals a strategic shift, prioritizing finishing ability over top-order roles. This selection, alongside the dilemma of fitting both Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav, highlights key tactical decisions as India aims for stability ahead of the tournament.

Rahul Gandhi met PM Modi and Amit Shah to finalise key appointments for the Central Information Commission and Central Vigilance Commission, submitting a dissent note. This meeting occurred as Gandhi's upcoming Berlin visit for an Indian Overseas Congress event drew criticism from the BJP, accusing him of prioritizing foreign trips over parliamentary duties.