The Mahindra Group officially announced on Friday that it plans to invest Rs 15,000 crore in Maharashtra over a 10-year period and to acquire more than 2,000 acres of land across three locations in the state to further strengthen its manufacturing footprint.

According to an official statement, the Mahindra Group will establish its largest integrated facility for manufacturing automobiles and tractors in Nagpur, Maharashtra, marking a significant milestone in the group’s long-term growth strategy. The announcement was made at ‘Advantage Vidarbha’, a three-day flagship event positioning Vidarbha as an emerging industrial growth hub on India’s manufacturing map, on Friday.

A state-of-the-art facility will be developed across an area of 1,500 acres in Vidarbha, complemented by a 150-acre supplier park in Sambhajinagar, according to the statement.

Once fully operational, the facility will have an annual production capacity of over 5 lakh vehicles and 1 lakh tractors, making it Mahindra’s largest integrated manufacturing footprint in the country, the statement mentioned.

According to the statement, the Vidarbha region offers strong strategic advantages, including excellent road connectivity via the Samruddhi Expressway, robust rail links, easy access to key domestic and export markets, and a rapidly evolving industrial ecosystem. The supplier park at Sambhajinagar will strengthen the manufacturing value chain through closer partner collaboration, improved logistics efficiency, and enhanced localisation. It will supply components to the new Nagpur facility as well as Mahindra’s existing ones at Chakan and Nashik, as per the statement.

The automotive facility will support Mahindra Auto’s next-generation platforms, including the NU_IQ architecture, and will be capable of manufacturing vehicles across multiple powertrains for internal combustion engines and electric vehicles for both domestic and global markets. Featuring advanced automation and digital manufacturing systems, the plant will reflect Mahindra’s focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability. The tractor manufacturing unit will further reinforce Mahindra’s leadership in the farm equipment sector, catering to growing domestic demand and key export markets, according to the statement.

In addition, Mahindra will acquire land in the Igatpuri-Nashik region to expand its current product and engine capacities, as well as to support the growth of its advanced technology business, the statement mentioned.

Mahindra plans to commit a comprehensive investment of Rs 15,000 crore over a 10-year period in Maharashtra and acquire more than 2,000 acres of land across three locations to further strengthen its manufacturing footprint in the state, the statement informed.

Speaking at the ‘Advantage Vidarbha’ event, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis said, “Mahindra’s decision to establish its largest integrated auto and tractor manufacturing facility in Maharashtra is a strong endorsement of the state’s robust industrial ecosystem and progressive policy framework. This landmark investment will generate significant employment, accelerate regional development in Vidarbha and surrounding areas, and further reinforce Maharashtra’s position as a leading manufacturing hub in India”.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd Executive Director & CEO (Auto and Farm Sector) Rajesh Jejurikar said, “This facility represents a bold step forward in Mahindra’s manufacturing journey. Designed to support our next generation of vehicles and tractors, it brings together scale, flexibility, and advanced technology within one integrated footprint. It strengthens our ability to deliver world-class products while staying true to our commitment to ‘Make in India for the World.’ We are proud to deepen our partnership with the state of Maharashtra through this transformative investment”.

With this new manufacturing complex, Mahindra continues to accelerate its vision of shaping the future of mobility and farm mechanisation—driven by innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness—while contributing meaningfully to India’s industrial growth.

Sharad Pawar-led NCP Lok Sabha MP Bajrang Sonawane, who represents the Beed district, questioned if there was an explosion aboard the ill-fated aircraft that carried late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to Baramati from Mumbai.

“CCTV footage from 8.46 am shows that the flight did not crash after touching the ground. As far as I know, the plane exploded before it touched the ground. People in the engine area were also thrown away due to the impact of the blast. After that, there seems to have been a second explosion after it touched the ground. Was there a bomb inside the plane? Or did the engine explode before touching the ground? The entire truth must come out,” Sonawane told media persons.

“As a worker of Ajit Dada, I have only one demand – the incident should be investigated thoroughly. There is definitely room for suspicion about that incident. When did Dada leave his official Devgiri bungalow in Mumbai? When did he reach the Mumbai airport? CCTV footage of it must be available. In which car did Dada go, who was the driver, when did he board the flight? Right from entering the Mumbai airport to boarding the flight to Baramati airport, all CCTV footage should come to light,” Sonawane demanded.

“There were six people on the aircraft. Why then only five bodies were found? Given the way the accident happened, was there a bomb in the plane? Questions raised by Anjali Damania should also be investigated. Who was the pilot of the aircraft? This should also be investigated. CCTV footage from the morning of the incident should be released. Did the plane crash on the ground? Why was there a blast on the plane in the air,” Sonawane asked.

Bajrang Sonawane is only the latest political leader from Maharashtra who has questioned the official version of the late Ajit Pawar’s air crash. On Wednesday, Kalyan Atole, the Sarpanch of Gojubavi village at Baramati, where the late Ajit Pawar died in an air crash, met NCP founder Sharad Pawar at Baramati and told him about an unknown man who came out of the crashed aircraft.

“The door of the crashed aircraft was open at the time of the accident. At first, we saw a person wearing blue pants coming out, but later we did not see him. Also, we did not know that this aircraft carried Ajit Dada. We thought it belonged to some businessman,” Atole told Sharad Pawar.

Ajit Pawar-led NCP MLA Amol Mitkari was the first to talk about what Gojubavi village sarpanch Kalyan Atole told Sharad Pawar on Wednesday.

Mitkari has also raised doubts about the quality of the aircraft on which the late Ajit Pawar had flown and the history of the pilots. “On what criteria was the Learjet 45 aircraft, which has a history of accidents and safety defects, chosen to transport a very important person like the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar? Also, pilot Sumit Kapoor, had a record of government action and suspension for alcohol-related reasons. He was asked to fly the aircraft at the last moment. Whose decision was this and based on what medical fitness, CRM and safety clearance was such a decision made,” he asked, sharing a photograph of a burnt chair in the crashed aircraft found at the scene after the accident.

He said after he visited the crash site at 5 pm on the day of the accident, Gojubavi village sarpanch Kalyan Atole told him about what he witnessed. “He had seen someone trying to jump out of the aircraft. The sarpanch told me that while they tried to save the person coming out of the aircraft, there was a sudden explosion,” Mitkari said.

Speaking at a Zilla Parishad election campaign meeting in the Solapur district on Wednesday, Sushma Andhare expressed doubts about the plane crash which killed the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar last Saturday. “Why was an aircraft which had been declared unfit by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) a year ago allotted for Ajit Pawar’s travel,” she questioned.

“The aviation regulatory authority should provide information about Ajit Dada’s air crash. However, the BJP is giving different answers. Many questions remain unanswered and no concrete answer is being given by anybody. People are wondering if Ajit Pawar was assassinated. Why is the BJP angry about people asking questions,” Andhare said.

On Tuesday, former Maharashtra Home Minister and Sharad Pawar-led NCP leader Anil Deshmukh rejected the ongoing CID investigation into the air crash which killed late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and demanded a fresh probe on Tuesday.

“I support Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut’s demand for an inquiry into Ajit Dada’s air crash. Many senior leaders have raised doubts about this accident. Even Ajit Pawar-led NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal spoke yesterday. The reason given was that visibility was low, but it is not clear from the videos which have been accessed from that place. Nobody believes the reason given by the Union Ministry about visibility problems. So, this case should be investigated properly. The truth can come out only if this investigation is conducted under the control of a High Court judge,” he said.

In the tragic death of the 25-year-old Kamal Dhyani after falling into a pit in Janak Puri, police today registered FIR in the Janak Puri police station under section 105 BNS (Culpable homicide) against the contractor and concerned officials of the Delhi Jal Board.

#WATCH | Janakpuri, Delhi | Kamal Dhyani’s motorbike recovered from the pit where he fell last night, and succumbed. https://t.co/pdXyhZZaLd pic.twitter.com/5RmESBrSAq

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2026

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) (West Delhi), Sharad Bhaskar, told reporters that all aspects are being investigated, including the safety protocols that should have been in place at the ongoing DJB repair project. He confirmed that the pit was part of an active Delhi Jal Board project. He stated that authorities are now focusing on accountability. The police will investigate all stakeholders involved in the DJB work to determine whether there was negligence in barricading or in warning signs.

The investigation in the case is underway.

Kamal Dhyani, a resident of Janak Puri, was riding his motorcycle home when he fell into the deep pit dug for repair work by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB). Police confirmed the identification of the deceased.

Family alleges negligence by local administration

Naresh Chand, father of the deceased, has alleged that negligence by the Delhi administration and the Delhi Jal Board caused his son’s death. He said, “It is the Delhi Jal Board’s and the Administration’s mistake. Until a few days ago, there was no pit at the spot.”

Also, the brother of the deceased has accused the police of not providing any assistance to the family. He said that the family went to six police stations seeking information about his brother but received an update only when they called Dhyani on his phone, and an official answered and informed them of his death.

The family has alleged that the police ignored the urgency of the situation and failed to take action timely. The delay in tracking the exact location of Kamal’s mobile phone during the search led to his death, claims the family.

#WATCH | Delhi | On Delhi resident Kamal Dhyani’s death after falling into a pit on his bike in Janakpuri, his older brother, Mayank Dhyani, says, “He was working a night shift in Rohini. He was on his way back. I spoke to him when he had reached Janakpuri. He told me he had… pic.twitter.com/KGk7gCFQLT

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2026

Meanwhile, political parties have begun to point fingers at each other for another life lost due to negligence.

Attacking the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, it is not an accident, but a murder caused by extreme negligence.

He posted on X: “This is not an accident, but murder. The BJP has learned nothing even from the Noida incident. Extreme negligence and an utterly irresponsible attitude have now become the hallmark of BJP governments, and it is the common people who are paying the price for it. May God grant strength to that family which lost their child due to the government’s negligence.”

Delhi Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood will be visiting the site of accident on 07 February and conduct an inspection of the ongoing repair work.

The Delhi government has assured that a strict action will be taken against those responsible.

#WATCH | Delhi Minister Ashish Sood says, “It is an unfortunate incident. I stand with the deceased’s family at this time of grief. I want to assure the family that I have inspected the site for two hours, and I saw that all security measures were in place. Still, I have… https://t.co/uBOFeECVx4 pic.twitter.com/XDsqEvKUym

— ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2026

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has geared up for the upcoming India AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled to be held from February 15 to 20.

Beautification and road safety form the cornerstone of the NDMC’s preparations for the upcoming event. In line with the vision of delivering a G20-level experience, the NDMC has launched an extensive and comprehensive civic revamp across its jurisdiction.

NDMC Vice Chairperson Kuljeet Singh Chahal on Friday informed that as part of extensive horticulture and beautification initiatives, over 5,000 decorative potted plants—similar to the G-20 Summit arrangements—have been installed at prominent locations including Connaught Place, Sardar Patel Marg, Emporium BKS Marg, C-Hexagon, Khan Market, Aurobindo Marg, Dilli Haat, PM House Roundabout, Teen Murti Marg, Barakhamba Road, Leela Palace area, Sansad Marg and other key corridors.

“In line with the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who envisions India as a global leader in innovation, technology and good governance, the NDMC is fully prepared to welcome the world for the prestigious India AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled from 15th to 20th February, 2026,” the NDMC Vice Chairperson said.

Briefing the media after a comprehensive inspection at Sardar Patel Marg, Chanakyapuri alongwith officers and officials of the department concerned of the NDMC, Chahal said around 15 floral boards and vibrant floral fountains are being prepared across major roundabouts, while a grand Tulip Festival will be organised at Shanti Path lawns during the Summit period.

“Regular horticulture works such as hedge trimming, tree pruning and cleaning of green belts are already in progress and will be completed well before the event,” he said.

The NDMC Vice Chairperson said to ensure safe, smooth and visually appealing road infrastructure, the Roads Circle has installed advanced road safety devices including Flexible Urban Delineators, Solar Raised Pavement Markers, Anti-Glare Boards, Linear Delineation Systems and Speed Arrester Studs.

“The work of road safety devices is completed at Ashoka Road and Parliament Street whereas the work at Mother Teresa crescent is under process and will be completed by 12th Feb,” he said.

“Signage boards on all 41 major roads are being repaired and upgraded, while thermoplastic road markings for pedestrian crossings and safety zones are being renewed. Footpaths are being repaired using red sandstone, cement concrete slabs and interlocking pavers. Potholes are being filled and kerb stones repainted in the standard black and yellow scheme,” the NDMC Vice Chairperson said.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended Sunetra Pawar swearing-in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, dismissing all the controversies surrounding it as “pointless”, here on Friday.

“I think whatever controversy is going on about this is pointless. This controversy is happening in a very wrong way. Everyone is trying to do their politics using this, but it is very wrong to do so. Ajit Pawar, who was a big leader of Maharashtra left us and after that everyone is trying to do politics, which is wrong. Such low-level politics should stop,” Fadnavis said.

He further said, “After Ajit Pawar passed away, the situation was precarious, but the courage with which Sunetra Pawar took a decision in the interest of Maharashtra is really commendable. I am confident she will carry forward Ajit Dada’s legacy with strength. The state of Maharashtra has got its first woman Deputy Chief Minister and her career will be a success. As far as the BJP and the Mahayuti government is concerned, we are supporting Ajit Dada Pawar’s family in this difficult situation,” Fadnavis said.

The chief minister was replying to a question posed to him by media persons, who asked him to react to Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam’s statement earlier on Friday.

Criticising Ajit Pawar-led NCP leader Sunil Tatkare earlier on Friday, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam said, “Immediately after the untimely death of Ajit Pawar, (senior Ajit Pawar-led NCP leader) Sunil Tatkare played very dirty politics. Sunil Tatkare forced Sunetra Pawar to take oath as Deputy Chief Minister before Ajit Pawar’s funeral pyre got extinguished. What difference would it have made if he did it after 10 days? Look at how clever and shrewd this man is. He thought Sharad Pawar would take control. Sunil Tatkare is a traitor. Tatkare always betrayed those who raised him”.

After the media persons asked Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam if he believed Ajit Pawar-led NCP leader Sunil Tatkare had got the late Ajit Pawar killed, Kadam said, “Maybe it is true, because Tatkare can do anything. Sunil Tatkare can do anything. What Tatkare did is condemnable. Maharashtra will never forgive him”.

The Manufacturing as a Service (MaaS) roundtable held in Lucknow on Friday brought together senior government officials, industry leaders, and technology partners to deliberate on scalable, cost-efficient manufacturing models aimed at strengthening Uttar Pradesh’s industrial ecosystem.

A key highlight of the roundtable was the signing of multiple MoUs between the Uttar Pradesh government and industry partners, reflecting strong confidence in the state’s investment climate. With commitments of around ₹3,030 crore, these partnerships are expected to generate employment for nearly 2.3 lakh people, providing a significant boost to Uttar Pradesh’s industrial growth.

The initiatives span diverse sectors—Tons Consulting Group and MCA Consulting in apparel manufacturing; Advait Learning Pvt. Ltd., in collaboration with upGrad, for commerce and space education upskilling; Avigna Pvt. Ltd. in industrial warehousing and semiconductors; and S N Dhawan & Co LLP in defence and electronics. Additional investments by Sakshi Steel Processing & Trading, Technical Consulting for MaaS, and Neo San Pvt. Ltd. in device manufacturing further reinforce industry, technology, and skill ecosystems.

Chaired by Dr K.V. Raju, Economic Adviser to the Chief Minister, the session highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s expanding global investment role and ambitious economic trajectory. He noted that the state’s GDP has tripled since 2017 and reaffirmed its commitment to becoming a $1 trillion economy. Discussions emphasised reducing costs, enhancing competitiveness, and boosting productivity through service-led manufacturing, while reinforcing Invest UP’s role in driving industrial growth under the vision “UP Means Business”, alongside plans for skill-focused zones and innovation clusters.

A session chaired by Awanish Kumar Awasthi, Adviser to the CM, underscored that skill, security, and connectivity are crucial to setting Uttar Pradesh on a sustained growth trajectory. He noted that the state’s vast consumer base makes it a major market for any company.

G.N. Singh, Adviser to the CM, highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s emergence as a healthcare and pharma hub, urging greater industry collaboration to build integrated supply chains.

Welcoming the dignitaries, Invest UP CEO Vijay Kiran Anand presented insights on Destination Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the state’s robust land bank, investor incentives, and progressive policy framework driving industrial investments.

Industry partners shared valuable insights during the roundtable. WMG Group highlighted Manufacturing as a Service (MaaS) as a transformative model under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, emphasising Land as a Service, digital infrastructure, cluster development, multimodal connectivity, and machine-sharing to enhance MSME competitiveness. RMG Manufacturing Group representatives showcased opportunities in ready-made garment manufacturing in Uttar Pradesh, citing skilled manpower, policy support, and infrastructure readiness as key enablers. Adding further depth, Vivek Agarwal, Co-Founder of upGrad, presented the initiative “Upskilling Uttar Pradesh.” M. V. Pawan, CFO of AVIGNA Group, and Navrun Jacob, President at Neo San Pvt. Ltd., demonstrated advanced manufacturing capabilities.

To mark the occasion, all participating companies were felicitated with ODOP mementos by Dr. KV Raju.

The ashes of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who died in a plane crash, were immersed in the Ganga at the holy city of Kashi with full religious rites by party workers on Thursday.

Arun Dubey, a Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) worker and a resident of Mirzapur, said he currently lives in Pune and has been associated with the Pawar family for a long time.

He said the party and the family had entrusted different individuals with the responsibility of immersing the ashes at major religious centres across various states.

Dubey said he was assigned the responsibility for Kashi in Uttar Pradesh. He added that they reached Mirzapur on Thursday via Delhi Airport from Pune, where they had attended a condolence meeting. After paying tributes, they proceeded to Assi Ghat in Kashi.

He said that ashes were also immersed in Prayagraj by another group. Uttar Pradesh NCP state president and national general secretary Dhananjay Sharma, along with several members of the party’s executive committee, were present on the occasion.

All of them boarded a boat and immersed the ashes in the Ganga amid Vedic chants.

Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly V D Satheesan on Friday justified the acceptance of support from the Jamaat-e-Islami by the UDF, arguing that the organization has shifted away from its extreme ideological stances, such as promoting a theocratic state.

Speaking to the media in Kasargod on Friday, Satheesan said the UDF would accept Jamaat-e-Islami’s support in the assembly elections. The Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer himself has rejected the concept of a theocratic state, what is wrong in accepting their support, Satheesan asked. “The Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer himself explicitly rejected the concept of a theocratic state, signaling a move towards accepting the constitutional, secular framework of India,” he added.

“Following this ideological shift, why should political support from the organization be rejected,” he asked.

Satheesan alleged that the ruling CPM has “double standards”, having accepted support from the Jamaat-e-Islami for nearly four decades, branding them as communal only after they began supporting the Congress-led UDF. “Don’t forget that they were with the CPM for almost four decades when they were carrying such arguments. There was no problem with anyone at that time,” Satheesan said.

“While standing with the CPM, everyone becomes secular and after leaving their party fold, they immediately become communal. We do not agree with that stance. The problem with all this is that Jamaat-e-Islami has declared support for the UDF. That stance is not right,” Satheesan added.

Satheesan reiterated that the UDF does not have a formal alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami, but rather accepts their support, emphasizing that this does not imply agreement with all their past views.

Reassuring the youth, particularly those affected by examination paper leaks in previous years, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Friday said that all culprits and conspirators involved in such cases would be sent “behind bars.”

Addressing a well-attended public gathering at the ‘Gram Utthan Shivir’ rural development camp in Ladnun town of Deedwana–Kuchaman district, the Chief Minister said his government had remained steadfast in its commitment to act decisively against those responsible for destroying the future of young aspirants.

“I have repeatedly assured the people since assuming office in December 2023 that our government will not spare the guilty or the perpetrators. We have kept our word and will continue to fulfil every promise made to the people and mentioned in the BJP’s Sankalp Patra,” Sharma said.

Referring to paper leaks that occurred during the previous Congress regime, the Chief Minister said the present BJP government has so far lodged 137 FIRs and sent 438 accused to jail, adding that the number is likely to rise further. “Not a single person who conspired to shatter the dreams of the youth will be allowed to go scot-free,” he asserted.

In contrast, Sharma alleged that the previous Congress-led government had soft-pedalled such cases and failed to register even a single FIR. He pointed out that during recruitment examinations conducted in 2018–19 by the Rajasthan Staff Selection Board (RSSB), authorities from a neighbouring state had alerted the then state government about the culprits, some of whom were even apprehended outside Rajasthan. “Despite clear leads and breakthroughs, the previous government failed to act,” he said.

The Chief Minister also expressed satisfaction that not a single paper leak incident has been reported since December 2023 under the current BJP government.

He further criticised the Congress for its alleged failure in delivering good governance, slowing down development, and being unable to curb corruption, accusing it of now spreading false narratives to cover up past misdeeds.

Earlier, the Chief Minister inaugurated and laid foundation stones remotely for 71 development projects and welfare initiatives, involving an investment and grant allocation of ₹529 crore for the Deedwana–Kuchaman district, which was carved out nearly three years ago by the previous Congress government.

Sharma also distributed cheques and certificates to beneficiaries under various welfare and empowerment schemes.

Minister of State for Revenue VS Chaudhary, Kisan Commission Chairman CR Chaudhary, and several senior leaders were present on the occasion.

Uttar Pradesh has recorded a sharp rise in excise revenue in the financial year 2025–26, with collections up to January 2026 reaching Rs 43,975.15 crore, reflecting strong year-on-year growth.

According to state excise minister Nitin Agarwal here on Friday, the revenue collected till January 2026 in FY 2025–26 is Rs 6,074.80 crore, higher than the Rs 37,900.35 crore collected during the same period (up to January 2025) in FY 2024–25, marking an increase of 16.03%.

The state had set a revenue target of Rs 48,900 crore up to January 2026, of which 89.92% has been achieved so far.

For January 2026 alone, excise revenue stood at Rs 4,148.20 crore. This is Rs 791.94 crore — or 23.60% — more than the Rs 3,356.26 crore collected in January 2025.

On the enforcement front, the minister said by December 2025, authorities had registered 89,692 cases related to the illegal manufacture, sale, and smuggling of liquor. During this period, 23.30 lakh litres of illicit liquor and narcotic substances were seized. A total of 16,856 individuals involved in the illegal liquor trade were arrested, of whom 3,081 were sent to jail, and 123 vehicles used in smuggling were confiscated.

In January 2026 alone, enforcement drives led to the registration of 8,688 cases related to illegal liquor activities. Officials seized 1.93 lakh litres of illicit liquor and narcotic substances. As many as 1,521 people were arrested, 297 were sent to jail, and 12 vehicles involved in smuggling were seized.

The department has been continuing intensified action against illegal liquor operations alongside efforts to maintain strong revenue performance.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday stressed that advanced technological solutions must be adopted to effectively address technology-driven and border-related challenges that have significantly changed over the past 60 years.

Shah was addressing BSF jawans during his visit to the ‘Gurnam’ and ‘Bobiya’ border outposts (BOPs) along the India-Pakistan border in the Jammu region.

He said that it is a shared responsibility to ensure that the nation’s borders remain fully secure and vigilant. He noted that border-related challenges have changed significantly over the past 60 years. While the courage, alertness, and dedication of personnel remain crucial, many emerging challenges are now technology-driven. Therefore, advanced technological solutions must be adopted to effectively address them.

The government will invest substantial funds to technologically modernise the entire border security system. This modernisation will provide improved border infrastructure and advanced equipment for BSF personnel, enabling them to perform their duties more effectively, he said.

He recalled that during the BSF Raising Day celebrations, he had announced that the 61st year of the BSF would be dedicated to modernisation, as well as to the welfare of BSF personnel and their families. He added that a dedicated team in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is continuously working on both fronts.

The Home Minister paid floral tributes to the martyrs at the “Ajey Prahari” memorial and also planted a sapling at the Border Outpost Bobiya. Shah inaugurated projects worth Rs 7 crore for the welfare of troops, including newly built Solar Water Heaters, Solar Power Plants, and an Officers’ mess. He also laid the foundation stone for the BSF infrastructure projects worth Rs.242 crore.

The event was attended by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Union Home Secretary, Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Director General of the Border Security Force, and other senior officials.

The Home Minister described BSF personnel as the finest example of discipline and dedication, standing firm day and night to protect the nation’s borders.

He said that whenever the nation’s borders have faced threats of intrusion or infiltration, the BSF has stood like an impregnable wall, resolute in its commitment to safeguard the country. He stated that the bravery and valour displayed by the BSF during ‘Operation Sindoor’ have added a golden chapter to its six-decade-long history.

He said that the BSF’s Jammu and Kashmir Frontier completely destroyed 118 Pakistani posts and three terrorist launch pads. In this operation, Sub-Inspector Mohammad Imtiaz Ahmad and Constable Deepak Chingakham, who laid down their lives in the line of duty, were awarded the Vir Chakra, which is a matter of immense pride for us. Shah also said that during this period, the BSF received 16 gallantry medals and several commendation certificates.

He praised the force for its outstanding humanitarian service during natural disasters, particularly in Punjab.

Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India is fully committed to the welfare of security personnel. He announced that a special welfare scheme for BSF personnel will be introduced soon.

Proceedings in the Lok Sabha continued to be stalled on Friday with Opposition MPs carrying on with their protests at the commencement of discussions on the Union Budget 2026-27.

Despite repeated reprimands from Speaker Om Birla, 19 hours and 13 minutes had already been lost during the Budget Session due to disruptions, sloganeering persisted

Budget discussions are scheduled to continue from Monday, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expected to reply on February 11.

However, after the rather “unprecedented” development this week when the Lok Sabha passed the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address without the customary reply from the Prime Minister, sources suggest the Opposition, led by the Congress and the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, may continue protests issues such as the recent India-US trade agreement, claims related to the China standoff mentioned in former Army Chief M.M. Naravane’s memoir, and the suspension of eight Opposition MPs.

On Friday also, Opposition MPs staged a protest at Parliament’s Makar Dwar against the India-US trade agreement, displaying banners that described it as a “trap deal” and raising slogans such as “tanashahi nahi chalegi.”

Observers say exchanges between the government and the Treasury Benches mark a new low in parliamentary discourse and signal further deterioration of working relationship between the two sides. Therefore, unless some common ground can be worked out, such scenes are expected to continue. While partial functioning is sufficient for the Budget to be passed, productivity of the session will depend on the Speaker’s ability to maintain order and the Opposition’s willingness to relent, which currently appears unlikely.

The week witnessed an unprecedented development when the Lok Sabha passed the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address without the customary reply from the Prime Minister. The motion was passed by voice vote amid loud protests, marking the first such instance since 2004 when the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was unable to deliver his reply amid protests by the BJP.

Tensions have further escalated following the PM’s sharp attack on the Opposition, particularly the Congress, during his speech on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address in the Rajya Sabha on Friday. He also criticised the past and present Congress leadership, terming Gandhi’s “traitor” remark against BJP MP Ravneet Singh Bittu an insult to the Sikh community and an example of the party’s “arrogance.”

While the PM accused the Congress of “insulting” the President by disrupting the debate on her address, the Congress, in turn, accused him of lacking the courage to answer questions raised by the Opposition and of deliberately undermining democratic functioning in Parliament.

The Indian contingent continued its impressive run at the BOXAM Elite International 2026, confirming a total of 19 medals following a dominant Day 3 performance on Friday.

Olympians Nitu (51kg) and Preeti (54kg) led the charge by advancing to the semifinals of their respective weight categories, while Jadumani Singh (55kg) once again stood out in the men’s draw with a commanding win.

Under newly appointed head coach Santiago Nieva, the Indian women’s team has already assured 12 medals, while the men’s contingent has sealed seven podium finishes as the tournament heads into the semifinal stage.

Nitu was in complete control against Canada’s McKenzie Wright, cruising to a 5:0 unanimous decision to book her place in the last four. Preeti followed with an equally dominant display against Spain’s Maria Gonzalez, forcing the bout to be abandoned in the third round after dictating proceedings with relentless pressure.

Poonam (54kg) added to India’s tally with a comprehensive 5:0 win over Thailand’s Natnicha Chongprongklang. Priya (60kg) and Pranjal (65kg) progressed with unanimous decisions against Spain’s Laura Galano and Czech boxer Viktorie Jilkova, respectively, while Kajal (65kg) edged past Kazakhstan’s Akbar Ichshanova 4:1 in a closely contested bout.

In the men’s competition, Jadumani Singh outclassed Peng Chia-Feng of Chinese Taipei 5:0 in the 55kg category. Mohammed Hussam Uddin (60kg) produced a composed performance to defeat Ukraine’s Ali Dahly by unanimous decision, while Sachin (60kg) edged Ukraine’s Aider Abduraimov 3:2 in a tense encounter. Akash (75kg) also advanced after registering a solid 4:1 win over Spain’s Jose Luis Canero.

There were narrow exits for a few Indian boxers despite spirited efforts, with Pawan Bartwal going down 2:3 to England’s Ellis Trowbridge, while Abhinash Jamwal lost to Ukraine’s Elvin Aliiev.

Overall, India’s growing medal haul capped another successful day at the tournament, with multiple semifinal berths secured as the competition enters its decisive phase.

On the second day of India Stone Mart 2026 on Friday, the mega event was celebrated as Jaipur Architecture Festival 2026.

The festival was ceremoniously inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari at the sprawling Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre (JECC), Sitapura here.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Deputy Chief Minister described the festival as a platform that gives global recognition to Rajasthan’s architectural heritage, stone industry, and craft traditions. She said whether it is the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, or the famous Akshardham, historical monuments, religious sites, prestigious hotels and buildings across the world — if one observes closely, the stone used in most of them is from Rajasthan. It is a matter of immense pride for the state that the soil and stone of Rajasthan are visible across the globe.

The inaugural ceremony at the Mugdha Convention Hall began with lighting of the traditional lamp. Renowned architects from India and abroad, policymakers, industry leaders and high officials from institutional organisations were present.

Speaking about Shilpgram, the Dy CM said providing such a large platform and dedicated space to small artisans and handicraft craftsmen is a commendable initiative.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mantra of “Development as well as Heritage,” she said architectural designs and elements found in old historical buildings should be adopted in new constructions.

She further said that Jaipur is globally known for architecture and is the world’s first planned city. Being associated with such a city, which holds a special place in global architecture, is a matter of pride. She added that not only in India but also in many historic and iconic buildings across the world, stone from Rajasthan has been used—an achievement that brings great pride to the state.

The weight of expectation is unlikely to burden title favourites India when they open their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign against the USA at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday, with the defending champions eyeing history as the first team to retain the title.

World No.1 India have gone from strength to strength since lifting the trophy in 2024, even after the departures of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The transition has been seamless, reflected in nine series victories since, including a dominant Asia Cup campaign last year.

Crucially, the final pieces of the jigsaw appear to have fallen into place ahead of the World Cup opener. Captain Suryakumar Yadav has rediscovered form after a difficult 2025, while Ishan Kishan has forced his way back into the side with explosive performances to reclaim the opening slot as wicketkeeper-batter.

Kishan is expected to partner Abhishek Sharma at the top, a combination that promises relentless intent. Abhishek’s fearless approach and range of strokes make him ideally suited to the demands of T20 cricket, and the duo could set the tone early in the tournament. Suryakumar indicated that Kishan is likely to retain his place in the playing XI and will bat in the top-three as “he can’t go below No.3”.

India’s batting depth remains their greatest strength. Tilak Varma provides stability in the middle order, while the all-round options of Hardik Pandya, vice-captain Axar Patel and Shivam Dube add flexibility and firepower. Rinku Singh, one of the most reliable finishers in the format, completes a line-up that is both versatile and intimidating.

On the eve of the opener, the hosts, however, suffered a setback with fast-bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana set to miss the opening match, and probably the entire tournament, due to a knee injury that he picked up during India’s lone warm-up match against South Africa.

However, despite his absence, the bowling attack looks formidable. Jasprit Bumrah has been managed carefully, underlining his importance to India’s World Cup ambitions. He will share the new ball with the dependable Arshdeep Singh, while Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube offer backup seaming options.

Spin remains a major weapon, with Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy among the best in the format. However, managing the dew, an issue previously flagged by MS Dhoni, could pose a challenge on evening matches at co-host venues.

Standing in India’s path is a spirited USA side that will draw confidence from recent history. The Americans famously defeated Pakistan and pushed India hard during their Super Eight run two years ago. Several players, Saurabh Netravalkar, Harmeet Singh and Shubham Ranjane, have deep familiarity with Wankhede conditions, a factor that could work in their favour.

USA skipper Monank Patel has led confidently with the bat, supported by Saiteja Mukkamalla and Milind Kumar. In the bowling department, the experience of the former India and Mumbai players will be key.

Fresh from a competitive warm-up loss to New Zealand, where they fell short by just seven runs, the USA will take heart from the flat pitch and short boundaries at Wankhede. If their batters can counter India’s pace early, they will believe they have a chance to challenge the champions once again.

Teams:

India: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel (vc), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy.

USA: Monank Patel (c), Andries Gous (wk), Saiteja Mukkamalla, Shayan Jahangir, Harmeet Singh, Shehan Jayasuriya, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Milind Kumar, Mohammad Mohsin, Shubham Ranjane, Shadley van Schalkwyk, Ali Khan, Jasdeep Singh, Nosthush Kenjige, Saurabh Netravalkar.

The government on Friday said that in January 2026, Indian Railways achieved a major milestone by installing the Kavach Version 4.0 safety system on 472.3 route kilometres in a single day in a single month, the highest ever so far.

The newly covered routes include Vadodara–Virar (344 km) on Western Railway, Tuglakabad Junction Cabin–Palwal (35 km) on Northern Railway, and Manpur–Sarmatanr (93.3 km) on East Central Railway. With this expansion, Kavach Version 4.0 now covers 1,306.3 route kilometres across five Indian Railways Zones, strengthening safety on major corridors such as the Delhi–Mumbai and Delhi–Howrah routes. Additional sanctioned works cover 2,667 route kilometres, with execution underway.

The system has been successfully tested through automatic braking trials. Further expansion is underway, including Vadodara–Nagda and Virar–Mumbai Central, and speed upgrades up to 160 kmph are planned under Mission Raftar.

Overall, Kavach has now been implemented on more than 2,200 route kilometres, reflecting a steady and accelerating expansion of India’s indigenous Automatic Train Protection system across the national rail network.

KAVACH is an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system that provides train protection as well as collision prevention capabilities for trains.

The upcoming launch of KAVACH 5.0, an advanced safety and signaling system designed for suburban sections, has been announced in April 2025. It is expected to significantly reduce inter-train headway, enabling a higher frequency of train operations while maintaining safe and efficient movement.

Vande Bharat 4.0 is envisaged to incorporate Kavach 5.0, the next evolution of India’s indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, as part of its advanced safety and technology framework.

The Indian stock market shed its previous losses in a volatile session on Friday, with the Nifty trading near 25,700.

At the close, the Sensex was up 266.47 points, or 0.32%, to 83,580.40, while the Nifty gained 50.90 points, or 0.20%, at 25,693.70.

Broader markets showed mixed performance, with the Nifty Midcap index ending flat and the Smallcap index slipping 0.3%.

Among the sectors, the Nifty Bank index ended almost flat, while the Financial Services index rose 0.43%.

Further, the Nifty FMCG clocked a strong gain of 2.27%, while the Nifty Consumer Durables rose 0.96%. The Nifty Private Bank, Realty, and Oil and Gas indices also gained more than half a per cent each.

Among the Nifty50 gainers were ITC, up 5.21%; Kotak Mahindra Bank, up 3.33%; and Hindustan Unilever, up 2.83%. On the losing side were HDFC Life Insurance Company, down 2.40%; Tech Mahindra, down 1.83%; and TCS, down 1.71%.

The advance-decline ratio remained in favour of decliners, with over 1,900 stocks advancing and more than 2,200 declining on the BSE.

Around 83 stocks hit their 52-week highs, while 107 stocks hit their 52-week lows in intraday trade on the BSE.

Those hitting highs included IOC, APL Apollo Tubes, Jindal Steel, FSN E-Commerce Ventures, and SAIL. On the lows were Naukri, Mankind Pharma, and Procter & Gamble Hygiene and Health Care.

The Nifty Realty index slipped up to 1%. Among notable stocks, Oberoi Realty declined 1.9%, while Lodha Developers, Brigade Enterprises, Godrej Properties, and DLF were also among the major laggards, shedding up to 1%.

IT stocks, including Infosys, Tech Mahindra, LTIMindtree, and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), fell by up to 8%.