Times of India

In Himachal Pradesh, eligible residents can access financial support for building homes under the Swaran Jayanti Ashray Yojana. This initiative provides a grant of Rs 1,50,000 to help establish new residences. To qualify, applicants must be permanent residents belonging to SC, ST, or OBC categories, without any house ownership, and must adhere to specified income limits. Documentation is required for the offline application process.

Russian petrol stations are rationing fuel due to Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries. These strikes have disrupted domestic fuel supplies, causing shortages across the nation. Russia is now importing finished petrol from countries like India to meet demand. This unusual trade flow highlights the difference between crude production and refining capacity. The ongoing refinery damage strains Russia's energy system supporting its economy.

The US Department of Homeland Security is considering a proposal that may eliminate the 60-day grace period for foreign workers, particularly affecting H-1B visa holders and countless Indian professionals. This grace period currently allows individuals to seek new jobs or modify their status before needing to leave the US. Without it in place, workers may face immediate departure following job loss, with final details pending further evaluation.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon voiced frustration regarding US defense technology perceptions. The bank launched a $1.5 trillion Security and Resiliency Initiative for national security industries. This program now includes Canada, Europe, and the United Kingdom. The initiative supports aerospace, defense, manufacturing, energy, and health tech sectors. The bank is investing significant capital and personnel into this critical effort.

Nepal's finance minister estimates flood reconstruction costs between four and five billion dollars. This devastating flood killed over 600 people and left thousands missing. The disaster destroyed towns, bridges, roads, and damaged hydropower stations significantly. Search and rescue operations continue despite disruptions from bad weather conditions. India has provided substantial relief materials to the affected regions.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella views empathy as a vital leadership skill. He believes this ability helps connect with teams and understand customer needs. His personal experiences, including raising his son Zain, profoundly shaped his philosophy. Nadella also highlights the influence of cricket on his leadership approach. Team sports teach valuable lessons applicable to both personal and professional life.

While digging trenches for a new sewage system in Belgium, construction workers stumbled upon an astonishing treasure worth over ten million dollars. This remarkable find consisted of various gold bars and coins. Authorities have secured the precious haul in a high-security federal vault, adhering to Belgian regulations that permit rightful owners a five-year window to claim their treasure.

B Nagendra has submitted his resignation from the Karnataka cabinet. He cited avoiding embarrassment to the Congress party as his reason. Opposition parties had protested his alleged involvement in an Rs 89 crore scam. Nagendra stated he was voluntarily tendering his resignation after being hurt. The final decision on his resignation will be made after consulting the party high command.

A startling collapse saw Pakistan's batting lineup bowled out for a mere 110 runs in their first innings at Lord's. Michael Vaughan, the former England captain, sharply criticized the performance, remarking that England’s bowlers faced no real challenge, comparing the batting quality to that of second division county teams. England is now in a dominant position in the Test match.

Bangladesh is nearing a deal to acquire Chinese J-10CE fighter jets. This potential acquisition would significantly deepen military ties with China. The aircraft's performance in recent India-Pakistan clashes influenced Dhaka's decision. India views this development with concern along its eastern border. China's defense exports face a global market decline despite this deal.

X, formerly Twitter, found a bot farm of 200,000 accounts. These accounts posted content to influence American AI and energy policy debates. The posts claimed AI data centers raise electricity prices and strain the grid. This discovery follows similar claims made by OpenAI regarding Chinese influence operations. Both platforms are committed to maintaining an authentic online discussion space.

Students at Rural Studio have transformed donated carpet tiles into the innovative Lucy Carpet House, providing a vital home and prayer space for the Harris family. This initiative is part of a broader effort that has resulted in over 200 projects within Hale County, enabling students to gain hands-on experience while tackling the challenges of affordable housing in rural communities.

Manjeet Kaur died after suffering severe burn injuries from an alleged abduction and attack. She was reportedly taken to a forested area and set on fire near Morinda. Questions have arisen regarding the Punjab Police's alleged failure to record her statement. Chandigarh Police have registered a case of abduction and murder after her death. The investigation now focuses on the events and potential missed opportunities.

In a recent announcement, wholesale prices for buffalo milk in Mumbai will see a hike of nine rupees per litre, effective until February 27, 2027. Producers attribute this rise to skyrocketing feed ingredient costs. As consumers encounter the stress of surging costs of basic goods, many are responding with a mix of concern and light-heartedness. This price adjustment follows a previous spike in sugar prices within the city.

During a heartfelt celebration of Rakshabandhan at India Home, NYC mayor Zohran Mamdani emphasized the festival's profound themes of protection, support, and unity. Drawing parallels to the rakhi's significance, he reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring the welfare of all New Yorkers. The mayor commended India Home for nurturing a sense of community and belonging among seniors, encouraging residents to foster these values citywide.

In a chilling revelation, Mohammad Imran, charged in the murder of Muskan, carries a record of alarming criminal behavior. He faced a POCSO allegation in 2018 involving the harassment of a young minor and was later implicated in an assault case that rendered the victim comatose in 2021. Muskan had voiced concerns about harassment at home prior to her death.

Suryakumar Yadav expressed surprise after losing his T20 captaincy role. He had led India to T20 World Cup and Asia Cup victories. The selectors informed him it was time for the team to move forward. He accepted the decision, acknowledging the selectors' prerogative. Suryakumar remains available for selection whenever the selectors deem it appropriate.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat visited the New York Iskcon temple during his US tour. He participated in a food distribution initiative for homeless individuals. Bhagwat spoke about Krishna consciousness and its role in overcoming global conflicts. The visit precedes his address to the Indian diaspora at Madison Square Garden. Iskcon aims to promote shared values amid world polarization and conflicts.