National News

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited Badhal village in Rajouri district to address the mysterious deaths of 17 people from three families. Authorities ruled out bacteria or viruses and are investigating other causes. A high-level inter-ministerial team and local investigators are examining the tragedy, with efforts to find the cause and provide relief to the affected.

Novak Djokovic, at 37, defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open quarter-final despite his injury, advancing to the semi-finals for the 12th time. Djokovic's 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory ensured his 50th Grand Slam semi-final appearance, where he will face Alexander Zverev, who defeated Tommy Paul.

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor anticipates an eventful period under US President Donald Trump's leadership. While expressing hopes for stable Indo-US relations, Tharoor highlights potential challenges in trade policies, tariffs, and immigration issues affecting Indian interests, alongside concerns about the rupee's depreciation and its impact on exports.

Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg with a combined wealth of $886 billion attend Trump's inauguration. They symbolize US plutocracy, seated in front of Trump along with other billionaires, revealing their influence. Trump launches a successful crypto token while critics like Bernie Sanders decry oligarchic control.

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali attributes Pakistan's delay in announcing their ICC Champions Trophy squad to uncertainties over batter Saim Ayub's ankle injury. He believes he team relies heavily on their top four batters, including Ayub, due to a weak middle-order, creating a significant dilemma for the selectors. The Champions Trophy will run from February 19 to March 9.

Lt Gen Herzi Halevi, Israel's top military leader, resigned due to failures in security and intelligence leading to Hamas' surprise attack on October 7, 2023. Concurrently, Israel carries out a significant military operation in Jenin, escalating tensions as a ceasefire with Gaza's Hamas fighters remains fragile.

Saif Ali Khan has been discharged from Lilavati Hospital after being hospitalized for stab wounds from a robbery attempt. US Ambassador Eric Garcetti mentioned Shah Rukh Khan's dialogue in his farewell video. Rashmika Mandanna’s portrayal of Maharani Yesubai in Chhaavaa is generating excitement. Urmila Matondkar denies any fallout with Ram Gopal Varma.

Jennifer B Higgins has been appointed as the acting USCIS director. She has previously served as the USCIS deputy director and in other leadership positions. USCIS manages immigration benefits in the US and recently updated its mission statement and logo to reflect a more welcoming stance towards immigrants.

At least 66 people died and 51 were injured in a fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel, a crowded ski resort in northwestern Turkey's Bolu province. The fire started in the hotel's restaurant and quickly spread, with delayed firefighting efforts and a failed fire detection system exacerbating the tragedy. An investigation is underway.

India's T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, is set to lead against England in the series but is disappointed by his ODI performance, which led to his exclusion from the Champions Trophy squad. He acknowledges the strength of the chosen squad and praises the potential return of bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami playing together.

Indian Premier League franchises Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders doubt the business model of The Hundred, citing unrealistic media rights projections by the ECB. Despite initial interest, they may not actively participate. Negotiations involving multiple IPL owners are ongoing, with deals expected to finalize between March and May.

Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Shubman Gill's appointment as vice-captain for the Champions Trophy, citing his secure spot in the team. Ashwin also mentions squad challenges like the lack of left-handers and reliable batting options. Potential inclusions of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Washington Sundar are discussed, along with team strategies under Dubai's dewy conditions.

Saif Ali Khan has returned home after a five-day hospitalization following a robbery where he was stabbed multiple times. The actor is moving back to his previous Bandra residence with his family for better security. The attacker, Mohd Shariful Islam Shehzad, was arrested while attempting to flee to Bangladesh, raising concerns about the safety of high-profile individuals.

In 2025, Aries, Taurus, and Gemini zodiac signs are expected to undergo substantial life changes, particularly in finances and employment. Aries will find new opportunities and success, Taurus will reap the benefits of past efforts, and Gemini will utilize creativity and problem-solving skills to overcome challenges and secure a stable future.

The BJP has accused Arvind Kejriwal of misinterpreting the Ramayana for political gain, calling him a 'Chunavi Hindu.' Kejriwal compared the BJP to the 'golden deer' in the Ramayana, which BJP leaders claim reflects his ignorance about Hindu scriptures. The controversy arises ahead of the Delhi assembly elections.

President Trump has signed an Executive Order to promptly remove all undocumented immigrants, including those from India. With the potential enactment of the Laken Riley Bill, fears of sweeping visa bans arise if countries do not cooperate in repatriating their citizens.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed deep regret over President Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the organization. This move may weaken global health efforts, as the US has been a major financial contributor. The decision could also affect international pandemic preparedness and response.

The Singapore government initiates stricter regulations to limit screen time for children in schools and preschools, starting February 1. The measures include banning screen use for children under 18 months, restricting screen time in educational settings, and offering guidelines for parents to limit daily screen use, promoting healthier lifestyles and child development.