India and the United States are likely to finalise and sign a joint statement on the first tranche of the bilateral trade agreement (BTA) in the next 4-5 days, informed Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday.

A formal legal agreement on the trade deal is expected to be signed around mid-March, Goyal told mediapersons here, adding that after the joint statement is released, the US is expected to issue an executive order to reduce tariffs to 18 per cent.

Once an executive order is issued following the statement, the reduced 18 per cent US tariff on Indian goods will come into force.

“A more comprehensive and formal agreement is targeted for signing by mid-March,” Goyal said.

Providing technical clarity on the procedural aspects of the deal, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal explained the distinction between the two nations’ tariff structures.

“Their (US) tariffs are executive tariffs. Our tariffs are most-favoured-nation (MFN) tariffs. So, our MFN tariffs reduction can only take place after the legal agreement has been signed. That will only happen after the legal agreement has been signed,” Agrawal said.

Goyal further stated that India has already entered into a record eight trade agreements, and the first tranche of the BTA with the US will soon become the ninth. The FTAs signed by India under PM Narendra Modi will help in the thrust to modernise India, he added.

“The FTAs signed under PM Modi help us in our thrust to modernise India,” said the minister.

Meanwhile, Goyal announced in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday that the interests of India’s farmers have been protected in the India-US trade deal, as agricultural and dairy products have been kept outside the ambit of the deal.

The minister said that India has successfully protected sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy while giving full attention to food and farming concerns in the India-US trade agreement.

He said the partnership will create new opportunities for MSMEs, skilled workers, and industry; strengthen bilateral ties; and ensure energy security, which remains a top priority for 140 crore Indians.

The minister said the trade deal “will simplify the reach to advanced technologies and help in realising India’s ‘Make in India for the World’, ‘Design in India for the World’ and ‘Innovate in India for the World’.”

Defending champions India went down 2-3 to Thailand in their second Group Y encounter of the Women’s Division at the Badminton Asia Team Championships in Qingdao, China, on Thursday, conceding the top spot in the group to their opponents.

Despite the loss, both India and Thailand advanced to the knockout stage, with Thailand finishing as group leaders and India settling for second place.

India began the tie on a strong note, with world No. 42 Tanvi Sharma producing a superb performance to upset world No. 16 Busanan Ongbamrungphan 21-14, 17-21, 21-18 in a hard-fought match lasting one hour and three minutes.

The early momentum continued as the doubles pair of Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly extended India’s advantage, overcoming Tidapron Kleebyeesun and Nattamon Laisuan 21-14, 20-22, 21-11 to give India a 2-0 lead.

Thailand, however, mounted a comeback in the third rubber, with 19-year-old Pitchamon Opatniputh defeating Rakshitha Ramraj 21-19, 21-17 to pull one point back for her team. The tie was then levelled after Tanisha Crasto and Shruti Mishra went down to Hathaithip Mijad and Napapakorn Tungkasatan in a closely contested doubles match, losing 21-19, 14-21, 15-21.

The decisive fifth match saw Malvika Bansod fall to Pornpicha Choeikeewong 21-18, 21-14 in a 40-minute contest, sealing the tie for Thailand and confirming their position at the top of Group Y.

The Badminton Asia Team Championships also serve as the continental qualifying event for the Thomas and Uber Cup Finals, scheduled to be held in Horsens, Denmark, in April-May. India’s women enter the tournament as defending champions, while China are the reigning men’s titleholders. India’s men have previously secured bronze medals in 2016 and 2020.

India had opened their title defence on a positive note on Wednesday, registering a dominant 5-0 victory over Myanmar in their first Group Y match.

Tamil Nadu, particularly Chennai, has been put on high alert after it was confirmed that the death of over 1500 crows on the southern flank of the city and the East Coast Road was due to avian flu, the H5N1 virus.

The sudden death of a huge flock of crows last month in Adyar, Pallikaranai, Velachery, Thiruvanmiyur, ECR and the IT Corridor – Old Mamallapuram Road (OMR), has rattled the residents. Crows falling from trees, on residential apartments and public places like parks has triggered concern and alarm. Since these places fall under Kancheepuram district, officials from the Animal Disease Investigation team from there rushed to these places, collected samples and sent them for analysis to the Bhopal-based National Institute of Animal Disease Control.

With the test results confirming presence of avian influenza in the deceased birds, commonly called bird flu, the Union Government has alerted the state government to carry out intensive surveillance and preventive measures without any slackness. The virus poses the risk of spreading to other animals and possibly to humans as well, the Central Veterinary Research Institute has written to the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary to immediately activate preventive measures.

The Tamil Nadu Animal Husbandry Department and the Department of Public Health have issued advisories warning the public not to panic and handle dead birds but inform the local authorities of such incidents. Since such deceased birds might be infected, authorities have been advised to bury them in 8-ft deep pits to prevent further spread of contamination. The Public Health Department is closely monitoring the situation.

With similar incidents reported in Kerala, officials said surveillance and monitoring have been intensified on the inter-state borders.

Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Assembly Tejashwi Yadav on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the state government, accusing it of making “false claims” about development and asserting that Bihar’s condition today is no better than it was in 1960. He urged Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to approach the Centre and demand special category status for the state, assuring full support from the Opposition.

Referring to the government’s claims of achievements during the Governor’s address, Tejashwi said, “Bihar stands today where it stood in 1960.”

Questioning the ruling party’s narrative of development, he said if Bihar was indeed progressing, the government should name even one sector in which the state ranked number one. “In what matters is Bihar better than other states? Bihar has the highest poverty and unemployment, the state is lagging behind in education and healthcare, corruption is at its peak, criminals dominate, per capita income is low, investment is low, and farmers feel cheated,” he said.

“If Bihar were a separate country, it would be the poorest in the world. Even compared to the poorest country today, Bihar would be poorer than that,” Tejashwi added.

On the government over the suspicious death of a NEET aspirant in a girls’ hostel in Patna, he said the police station was silent, the administration unconscious, and the government completely intoxicated. There was widespread regret and anger among the people against the government,” he pointed out.

Referring to the state government’s decision to recommend a CBI investigation into the case, he remarked, “The Bihar government has become a cold storage, busy freezing every issue.”

Hitting back, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said he had returned to power with a thumping majority because his government had worked for the development of Bihar over the past 20 years.

The chief minister chided Tejashwi, calling him immature. “You are a child. Your father was my contemporary. Even he got married after me. Come on, sit down, don’t create noise,” Nitish Kumar said.

Nitish Kumar further accused the RJD leader of conspiring to destabilise his government, alleging that Tejashwi Yadav had planned to lure away six JD(U) MLAs.

At a time when the Left is fighting back to the wall for electoral relevance across the country, the DMK government is bringing alive the father of communism, Karl Marx, by installing a statue of the late philosopher at the sprawling Connemara Public Library–State Museum campus in the heart of Chennai.

Chief Minister MK Stalin, whose DMK is providing a lifeline to the two dominant left parties, CPI and CPI(M), by ensuring two MPs each, is unveiling the statue on Friday. Like his father, the late DMK patriarch and Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, Stalin too claims that the Dravidian ideology is akin to the Communist ideology and that is why half of the DMK flag is red.

Last September, Stalin paid tributes to Marx by paying a visit to his memorial at Highgate Cemetery during his visit to London to scout for foreign investment. He also visited the Ambedkar memorial on the occasion.

“Both Dravidian ideology and Communist ideology stand against casteism, class division, authoritarianism and all forms of oppression. The comradeship will defeat fascism, communalism, authoritarianism and dictatorship. Those who tried to divide and destroy us have now collapsed…Despite minor differences, both Dravidianism and Communism stand for everything for everyone. I want to emphasise that ideologies of black, red and blue must stand together,” he had said on Sunday, addressing the 100th foundation day celebration of the CPI at Chennai.

The demand for a statue for the German philosopher was first mooted a few years ago by independent Marxists, including writer A Marx, a retired college professor. A committee was also formed to take the idea forward. Initially, it was suggested that the statue should be at the Marina seafront or at Nandanam. But Marx had expressed great satisfaction at the new venue, the more than a century-old British-era Connemara library campus. The library in the Egmore area of the city, built in 1890, was opened to the public in 1896. Now, it has Marx added to it.

The T20 World Cup 2026 is yet to begin, but controversy has already taken centre stage, with uncertainty continuing over Pakistan’s refusal to play India in the tournament. The latest twist came after Bangladesh’s Youth and Sports Advisor, Asif Nazrul, publicly thanked Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for boycotting the India fixture in what he termed an act of solidarity with Bangladesh.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, Nazrul acknowledged Pakistan’s stance and described it as a protest against Bangladesh’s exclusion from the multi-nation tournament.

“Thank you, Pakistan,” he wrote, while sharing remarks made by Sharif during a cabinet meeting in Islamabad earlier this week.

During the meeting, Sharif explained Pakistan’s decision to skip the high-profile clash against India, scheduled for February 15 at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium.

“Pakistan has decided not to play the match against India in protest of Bangladesh’s removal from the T20 World Cup,” Sharif was quoted as saying. He added that the move was taken after careful consideration, stressing that politics should not influence sporting contests and that Pakistan stood firmly with Bangladesh.

The Pakistan government had earlier confirmed that its national team would not take part in the group-stage encounter against India, intensifying concerns around the tournament’s integrity and scheduling.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) responded with a firm statement, urging the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to work towards a mutually acceptable solution. The governing body warned that selective participation goes against the very foundation of a global sporting event.

“While the ICC awaits official communication from the PCB, selective participation is difficult to reconcile with the fundamental premise of a global tournament where all qualified teams are expected to compete as per the schedule,” the ICC said. It further cautioned that Pakistan’s stance could have significant long-term consequences for its own cricketing ecosystem and the global game at large.

Bangladesh’s removal from the T20 World Cup followed its government’s decision not to allow the team to travel to India, citing security concerns. The Bangladesh Cricket Board had requested that their matches be relocated to Sri Lanka, but the proposal was rejected by the ICC, leading to Scotland being named as their replacement.

With the tournament approaching, the India–Pakistan standoff remains unresolved, adding another layer of uncertainty to an event already overshadowed by off-field drama.

As the Indian men’s cricket team prepares for the T20 World Cup 2026, messages of support have poured in from their female counterparts, with members of the Indian women’s team extending their best wishes ahead of the title defence.

Fresh from their historic triumph at the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, the Women in Blue sent heartfelt messages to the men’s side, underlining the sense of unity and camaraderie within Indian cricket as the defending champions gear up for another global challenge.

The men’s team enters the tournament as holders, having lifted the T20 World Cup in 2024 after a thrilling final victory over South Africa, and the backing from the women’s team has added an emotional boost ahead of the campaign.

Women’s team captain Harmanpreet Kaur led the show of support with a confident message for the squad.

“Wishing Team India all the best for the T20 World Cup. Play with full of your heart, enjoy, and we all know you are going to win this. Wishing all the luck,” she said.

Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana echoed the sentiment while also acknowledging the expectations surrounding the side.
“Wishing the best for the Indian Team, looking really good, we all are looking forward to another cup. But no pressure, and hopefully we can play some good cricket,” she stated.

All-rounder Deepti Sharma, who played a key role in India’s World Cup-winning campaign and was named Player of the Series, highlighted the significance of the tournament being held at home.
“Wishing all the very best, this is going to happen in India and it will be very special. Go get the cup home,” she said.

Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh also sent her encouragement to the men’s team ahead of the marquee event.
“Wishing you all the very best for the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, good luck guys,” she said.

The Indian women’s team, which created history by winning the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup for the first time, reiterated that the spirit of Indian cricket transcends formats and genders.

While the Men in Blue are set to open their World Cup campaign against the USA on Saturday, the women’s team is preparing for a multi-format tour of Australia, beginning on February 15. The tour will start with a three-match T20I series, followed by three ODIs and a one-off Test.

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) has been co-featured in the Guinness World Records for the largest electric bicycle delivery, achieved through the E-Cycle program in collaboration with EMotorad, the Kuppam Area Development Authority (KADA), the District Collectorate of Chittoor, and the government of Andhra Pradesh.

The record-setting delivery event was organized by the Government of Andhra Pradesh through the Kuppam Area Development Authority during which Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu presented the official Guinness World Records certificate.

The initiative was aimed at promoting sustainable, low-carbon local mobility within the Kuppam constituency. IIT Kanpur contributed as the technical partner through its Kuppam Net Zero Constituency Project, providing expertise and guidance for the successful execution of the program.

Two IIT Kanpur alumni — Hari Shankar, Consultant to the Kuppam Net Zero Constituency Project, and Vikas Marmat (IAS), Project Director, Kuppam Area Development Authority — played a key role in coordinating and supporting the initiative. The Institute’s participation in the event was represented by the project’s Principal Investigators, Prof. Manoj K Tiwari and Prof. Rajeev Jindal.

Speaking on this achievement, Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director, IIT Kanpur, said here on Thursday, “The co-featuring of IIT Kanpur in the Guinness World Records is a matter of great pride for us. This achievement reflects the Institute’s strong commitment to sustainability, clean mobility, and socially driven innovation. The Kuppam Net Zero Constituency Project is an excellent example of creating real societal impact by integrating technical expertise with policy and administrative efforts. I congratulate the project team, our partner organizations, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of this initiative.”

Prof Tiwari and Prof Jindal said that this recognition by Guinness World Records marks a significant milestone in IIT Kanpur’s continued efforts toward sustainability-driven innovation and impactful public-sector collaboration and thanked the IIT Kanpur administration for its support in enabling such high impactful projects.

A major confrontation erupted in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday as Leader of the House and Union Minister J P Nadda launched a sharp attack on the Opposition, taking a veiled swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by calling him an “abodh balak” (naive child).

The remarks came amid continuing disruptions in Parliament over the Opposition’s demand that Gandhi be allowed to speak in the Lok Sabha.

Nadda urged Congress president and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge not to let his party become “hostage” to Gandhi. Stating that the government was willing to discuss all issues, he accused the Congress of stalling proceedings. “Don’t make your party hostage to someone who is abodh (ignorant) and has arrogance,” Nadda said.

The Opposition has been protesting against the Centre, alleging that Gandhi was deliberately prevented from addressing the Lok Sabha. The demand follows references made by Gandhi to former Army chief General M M Naravane’s “memoir” on the 2020 India-China border standoff.

Raising the issue in the Upper House, Kharge argued that Parliament comprises both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. “The leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha wanted to speak on the country’s interests but was not allowed. How can you run the House like this?” he asked.

Kharge’s remarks drew strong objections from Nadda and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who maintained that the proceedings of the Lok Sabha cannot be discussed in the Rajya Sabha. Kharge, however, persisted, claiming that Parliament had been paralysed for four consecutive days because Gandhi was not allowed to speak. “You cannot paralyse one House to hide your mistakes. You betrayed and insulted the nation. When Rahul talks about it, aapko khujli uthti hai (you get itchy),” he said.

Nadda said Prime Minister Narendra Modi was ready to answer questions in the Lok Sabha but the Opposition had not allowed the House to function. He said Kharge himself was allowed to speak beyond his allotted time. “Claiming democracy is in danger is wrong, and I condemn it,” Nadda said.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also intervened, objecting to Kharge’s use of the word “lynch”, citing incidents in Congress-ruled states, including the killing of a tailor in Rajasthan and the assault on a teacher in Kerala, questioning the Opposition’s record on law and order.

Kharge further objected to what he described as the humiliation of former prime ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi by BJP lawmakers, referring to citations from controversial books during recent debates.

India all-rounder Tilak Varma, who made a confident return to the national setup after recovering from a three-week layoff due to surgery, credited the BCCI and the Centre of Excellence (CoE) for enabling his quicker-than-expected comeback and said both he and the team feel fully prepared for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Tilak described the atmosphere during India’s warm-up match against South Africa at a packed DY Patil Stadium as a major confidence booster, especially with fans chanting his name as he walked out to bat. India signed off their World Cup preparations in emphatic fashion, defeating South Africa by 30 runs in a high-scoring contest in Navi Mumbai on Wednesday.

“To be honest I did not expect I will be back on the field this early. Really thankful for COE and BCCI. I always say that the World Cup is my biggest dream to play. The way, I entered the ropes and everyone was shouting ‘Tilak Tilak.’ So I didn’t expect that. I really felt nice and it also boost me when I was going in,” Tilak said.

“The way Ishan was batting, I have seen him, the way Abhishek and everyone was batting, so I was also a bit like ‘Mai bhi maarunga jaake.’ I did not expect a full crowd, the DY Patil was fully packed. It was just a warm up game but still the craze… Really thanks to everyone. The vibe was really terrific, and yeah- Tilak and the Indian team is ready for the World Cup,” Tilak said in a video shared by bcci.tv.

Opting to bat first, India produced a dominant batting display, led by Ishan Kishan’s explosive 53 off just 20 deliveries. Kishan and Abhishek Sharma set the tone with a rapid opening stand, racing to 80/1 inside the powerplay before both openers retired out to allow other batters time in the middle.

Tilak, inspired by the aggressive approach around him, continued the onslaught with a brisk 45 off 19 balls, adding 66 runs with captain Suryakumar Yadav. Late cameos from Axar Patel and Rinku Singh, followed by Hardik Pandya’s blistering 30 off just 10 balls, propelled India to an imposing total of 240/5.

South Africa’s reply stumbled early when Arshdeep Singh removed George Linde for a duck. Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton briefly revived the chase with a 65-run partnership, but Markram’s retirement and the quick dismissals of Rickelton, Dewald Brevis and David Miller swung momentum decisively in India’s favour.

Despite resistance from Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs and Marco Jansen, South Africa eventually fell short by 30 runs.

India will now shift their focus to the tournament opener against the USA on February 7.

India head into Friday’s ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup final against England brimming with confidence after a record-breaking semifinal chase against Afghanistan, powered by a blistering start from 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and calm leadership from captain Ayush Mhatre.

The seven-wicket win not only sealed India’s sixth consecutive Under-19 World Cup final appearance but also saw them successfully hunt down the highest total ever chased in the tournament’s history. While opener Aaron George earned the Player of the Match award for his composed 115, it was Vaibhav’s explosive 68 at the top that set the platform and drew praise from the Indian captain.

Vaibhav’s innings, his third half-century of the tournament, came off just 33 deliveries and featured four sixes and five fours, ensuring India were well ahead of the required rate early in the chase.

Speaking after the match, Mhatre underlined how decisive the opening burst proved to be.

“It was really important for us because after 10 overs we had 90 runs and that was fabulous for us,” Mhatre said.

“He (Vaibhav) just released the pressure and we just wanted to build the innings. So it was really easy for us also to build the innings.”

With the early momentum secured, Mhatre (62) and George stitched together a measured century partnership to keep India firmly in control. Vihaan Malhotra then finished the job with an unbeaten 38, guiding the side home with more than eight overs to spare.

Reflecting on the approach that will also guide India in the final, Mhatre stressed simplicity and patience once the platform had been laid.

“There was a simple discussion after 10 overs and (with) 90 runs (on the board),” Mhatre continued.

“We had to just bat for a long time, just look for a singles, doubles and just take a boundary from a loose ball. So nothing special, just play the merit of the ball.”

India now face England in Harare, the only other unbeaten team in the tournament, in what promises to be a closely contested final. Aware of the challenge ahead, Mhatre acknowledged England’s strength but reiterated his side’s focus on execution rather than opposition.

“England is also a fabulous team,” he said.

“They have played some really nice games in this tournament, but we have a simple plan.

“Just play our game, not to see the opponent. Play each ball on its merits and just adapt the condition what is happening on the wicket and just play simple cricket.”

With form, confidence and history on their side, India will look to carry forward the same fearless start and composed middle-order approach as they chase a sixth Under-19 World Cup title on Friday.

Concluding his three-day visit to Washington, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said the Indo-US trade deal is in the final stages of detailing and will be completed very soon.

In a social media post on ‘X’ , he said, “Concluded a productive and positive visit to the US. Thank Secretary Rubio for his warm hospitality. The historic India-US trade deal is in the final stages of detailing that will be completed very soon. It opens up a new phase in our bilateral ties, with vast possibilities for the relationship. Our critical mineral cooperation is also advancing rapidly. Expect engagement on strategic issues, defence and energy in the coming days. Overall, a strong momentum is evident.”

Jaishankar was in the US to attend the Critical Ministerial hosted by the Secretary of State Rubio.

Meanwhile, in a post on ‘X’, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said Jaishankar’s talks with Rubio and US Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent represented ‘’limitless potential’’. ‘’Engagement at the highest levels is currently happening. The United States is ready to elevate this relationship even further,” he added.

The Centre has provided Rs 136.33 crore to Odisha under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for the development of infrastructure facilities for judiciary in the district and subordinate courts in the last five years, Union Minister of State, law and justice Arjun Ram Meghwal told the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.

Replying to a query by BJD member Subhasish Khuntia, the Minister in a written reply said the Union government has taken several steps to improve access to justice delivery in the country, including in the State of Odisha.

As on 31 December 2025, Odisha has 913 court halls and 156 court halls are under construction. Under the eCourts Project, a total of 184 eSewa Kendras are functioning in the State of Odisha, facilitating a wide array of services to litigants, lawyers and the general public including, assistance in e-filing processes, e-payment of court fees and fines, etc. .

220 court complexes under District and Subordinate Courts across the State have been provided with Information Communication Technology (ICT) hardware items and Video Conferencing facility has been enabled in all the District courts across the State. 44 Fast Track Special Courts have been established in the State of Odisha to dispose-off pending cases related to rape of children and women, the Minister informed.

The Centre has provided free and competent legal services under Legal Services Authorities (LSA) Act to the poor and marginalised sections of the society including Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) to ensure that opportunity for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by reason of economic or other disabilities and to organize Lok Adalats to secure that the operation of the legal system promotes justice on the basis of equal opportunities.

In order to reach out to the citizens in every corner of the country, including Odisha, the legal services institutions have been set up from the Taluk level up to the Supreme Court.

As part of Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism, four National Lok Adalats (NLAs) have been organised in 2025, from Taluk Courts to High Court of Orissa. That apart, pursuant to the direction of the Executive Chairman, Odisha State Legal Services Authority (OSLSA), a District level Lok Adalat was also organized by the OSLSA on 27 July 2025 on the cases under Section 138 of Negotiable Instruments Act. Further, 22 Permanent Lok Adalats are functional in Odisha to deal with cases related to Public Utility Services.

In order to provide effective and quality legal services to the disadvantaged and underprivileged sections of the society in court based criminal matters vis a vis Public Defender System and under the aegis of NALSA steps have been taken by OSLSA to implement Legal Aid Defence Council System (LADCS) in 30 DLSAs of the State, the Union Minister concluded.

Keeping its national ally Congress on the tenterhooks, the ruling DMK in Tamil Nadu appears to be dragging its feet on constituting a panel to hold seat-sharing talks for the coming assembly election, likely to be barely two months away.

Apparently irked by the demand for a share in power raised by a section of the Congress in the State, the DMK, which was initially inclined to seal the deal with the Congress first, is yet to form a committee to carry on the tough task of seat sharing with alliance partners. The silence of DMK president and Chief Minister MK Stalin, who enjoys a great personal rapport with Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, has baffled the local Congress leaders.

If the demand for power sharing was an irritant, a section of the Congress being very vocal in pitching for an alliance with actor Vjiay’s fledgling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TMK) on the ground that would be in the long-term interest of the party, has raised the hackles of the DMK rank and file. This is the reason for the DMK to prolong the start of formal process of seat-sharing, observe analysts, adding that this is a strategy of the Dravidian major to make the Congress see the reality of where it stands electorally in this crucial southern state.

On her part, DMK leader Kanimozhi, on Thursday, reiterated that though seat-sharing talks were underway with the Congress, it will be left to the Committee appointed for that purpose to discuss seat allocation and related issues. “Talks are underway on alliance, but the decision on the number of seats and constituencies each constituent of the DMK-led alliance would contest will be taken up by the panel to be constituted for the purpose by the leadership. They will announce the numbers,” the DMK deputy general secretary and the party’s Parliamentary Party leader told reporters at the party headquarters ‘Anna Arivalayam’ in Chennai on Thursday.

However, she declined to respond to a query whether the Congress was demanding more seats, punching above its weight. It is significant that she was deputed to hold talks with Rahul Gandhi when the chorus for power sharing from the Congress was endorsed Kirish Chodankar, heading the Congress panel constituted in November last, had endorsed it. And, it is reported that the DMK had made it clear to Gandhi that power-sharing was non-negotiable and out of question and that the Congress could be accommodated in the civic bodies.

Interestingly, the Congress panel had made a courtesy call on Stalin shortly after it was constituted. But now, Chodankar is awaiting a call from Arivalayam even after those who raised the demand for power-share have gone into silent mode, reportedly after receiving a drubbing from Rahul.

India maintained its impressive momentum at the BOXAM Elite International 2026, producing another assured set of performances on Day 2, with Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) and World Boxing Cup Finals champion Hitesh Gulia (70kg) leading a dominant showing across multiple weight categories.

Lovlina opened her campaign in emphatic fashion, outclassing Ukraine’s Olha Pylypchuk with a unanimous 5:0 decision.

The Olympic bronze medallist was in complete control from the opening bell, using crisp combinations and smart footwork to dictate the bout and book her place in the next round.

In the men’s draw, Hitesh continued his strong run, delivering another authoritative performance as he shut out Canada’s Vincent Santoriello 5:0, reaffirming his standing in the 70kg division.

India’s women boxers had set the tone earlier with a string of convincing victories. Manju Rani (48kg) cruised to a 5:0win over France’s Gloria d’Almeida, while Nitu (51kg) forced a Round 1 RSC against Spain’s Laura Calderon. Kusum (51kg) edged Claudia Alcaniz of Spain 4:1, Arundhati Choudhary (70kg) registered a comprehensive 5:0 win over Kazakhstan’s Aziza Issina, and Sanamacha Chanu (75kg) added another victory with a composed 4:1 decision against Canada’s Viktoria Penney.

The men’s contingent followed suit with a strong set of results. Pawan Bartwal (55kg) progressed after Thailand’s Thanarat Saengphet retired in Round 2, while Jadumani Singh (55kg) earned a 4:1 verdict over Ukraine’s Siiovush Mukhammdiiev.

Deepak (70kg) dominated Spain’s David Edenel Rosalen with a 5:0 scoreline, Ankush (80kg) came through a tight contest against Kazakhstan’s Yerassyl Zhakpekov, winning 3:2, and Harsh Choudhary (90kg) closed the day with a commanding 5:0 victory over Canada’s Bryan Colwell.

Claiming that Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in the country to ensure 100% compliance with the prescribed standards of the farmer registry, Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav said on Thursday that technology is being effectively leveraged to empower farmers and modernise the agricultural system.

He said through the AI-based digital crop survey and the farmer registry, the state’s rural data ecosystem has been given a new direction. Under the SCA scheme, financial approval of ₹713 crore has been received from the Government of India for the financial year 2025-26.

“This digital system will effectively curb duplication and fraudulent beneficiaries. It will serve as a strong foundation for all future digital agriculture initiatives,” the CM said in an official statement, adding that additionally, farmers are being provided easy access to agricultural credit through the Jan Samarth Portal.

The CM emphasized that with advanced technology, transparent data management, and strong Centre–State coordination, this initiative is building a robust digital foundation in the interest of farmers, ensuring that they receive the real benefits of government schemes.

Chief Minister Dr Yadav stated that under the digital crop survey, information is being securely recorded by visiting fields and capturing photographs of crops, making crop-related data fully authentic. Geo-fencing technology ensures that surveys are conducted only at the actual field location.

The survey data undergoes three-tier verification through AI/ML systems and at the Patwari level. The departments are also effectively utilising this data, and the procurement registration process is being carried out using Digital Crop Survey (DCS) data.

The chief minister further said that the government has ensured the reliability of the survey even in areas with limited internet connectivity. The system verifies the authenticity of photographs and the accuracy of locations captured during the survey. Surveys can be conducted only within a prescribed time window; any attempt to conduct a survey outside the timeframe or tamper with mobile time, results in the survey being automatically halted.

Cross-verification of data through AI/ML algorithms has minimised the possibility of human error. Data-driven decisions are being taken for crop area assessment, production estimates, and implementation of schemes.

He stated that the Farmer Registry has been developed as an integrated digital system, enabling centralised registration and verification of farmers’ identities, land details and scheme-related information. The process includes complete digital integration of land records, location-based data, and multi-level data verification.

Each farmer is issued an 11-digit unique digital identification number, creating an authentic and accurate farmer database in the form of a Unified Digital Profile.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today replied to the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address, in Rajya Sabha. While PM Modi was delivering his speech, the Opposition parties continued raising slogans, “Let LoP speak.” Several Opposition MPs staged walkout from the House as PM Modi continued his reply on Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address.

During his address, Prime Minister targeted the Congress party for making the nation suffer because of their lack of vision and planning. He said, “Those who are indulged in vote-bank politics never strengthen the important aspects. As far as the Congress party is concerned, I want to say clearly that they didn’t have any vision and as a result, the country had to suffer so much.”

He claimed that Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and the entire Congress party always viewed the people of India as a problem. He added, “I want to explain what Pandit Nehru’s and Indira Gandhi’s way of thinking was about the people of this country. Indira Gandhi once visited Iran, and while delivering a speech there, she referred to a conversation she had with Pandit Nehru. She herself said this, and I am quoting her words. When someone asked my father—that is, Pandit Nehru—how many problems he faced, he replied: 35 crore. When Pandit Nehru was asked how many problems were before him, he said: 35 crore. At that time, our country’s population was 35 crore…”

Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “I want to explain what Pandit Nehru’s and Indira Gandhi’s way of thinking was about the people of this country. Indira Gandhi once visited Iran, and while delivering a speech there, she referred to a conversation she had with Pandit… pic.twitter.com/uAWliJPWfE

— IANS (@ians_india) February 5, 2026

In contrast, he reiterated that he counts the people of India as solutions. He said, “I have said this not only before the world but also before the nation, because it is my conviction that no matter how many challenges there are, we have 140 crore solutions.”

Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “Be it Nehru ji, Indira ji, or the entire Congress, they have viewed the people of India as a problem. I have said this not only before the world but also before the nation, because it is my conviction that no matter how many challenges… pic.twitter.com/YhzilLe83s

— IANS (@ians_india) February 5, 2026

‘Congress, TMC, left parties only filled their coffers,’ claims PM Modi

Attacking the Opposition, PM Modi aid, “Congress, TMC, left parties had been in power for years, but they only filled their own coffers, didn’t work for people.”

Accusing the Congress party of betraying farmers, PM said, “Our country has around 10 crore farmers who own less than two hectares of land. Congress never cared for them, but we felt their pain; therefore, we introduced the PM Kisan Yojana.”

PM Modi also hit out at TMC today for protecting infiltrators who are taking away jobs and lands of tribals.

He stressed that much of the present government’s efforts and time are being spent in rectifying the mistakes of the former governments. PM Modi said, “It takes great effort to erase the image that was created in the minds of the world during that period, they left things in such a damaged state.”

For this reason, Prime Minister stated that BJP-led government places strong emphasis on future-ready policies. He said, “India today is riding on Reform Express with several landmark changes in the major policies. Global trust in India is growing. Guided by the mantra of ‘reform, perform, transform,’ we have moved forward.”

During his address in the Upper House, PM Modi said, “In the journey of Viksit Bharat, previous years have been the years of rapid development of the country. This has been the era of change in every walk of life, in evey section of society. The country is going ahead in the right direction at a fast pace.”

Addressing the Rajya Sabha, PM Modi claimed that India has emerged as a ray of hope for the world by offering solutions to the challenges it is facing. He said, “We are providing solutions to these global challenges. It is also a significant moment that among the major economies, India’s growth rate is very high. High growth combined with low inflation is a very rare and unique combination.”

PM Modi today said that the world is heading towards a new world order. He said, “After the second world war, one world order was set. Now it is being seen that the world is moving towards a new world order. And if all global events or recent occurances are considered without a bias, then it can be seen clearly that the inclination is towrads India.”

‘Big countries eager to have trade relations with India’: PM Modi

Mentioning about the ‘mother of all deals and the India-US trade agreement, PM Modi emphasised that India is entering into future-ready trade deals with several countries. He said, “In recent times, we have concluded major trade agreements with some of the world’s most important and advanced economies. A landmark deal has been finalised with the European Union, involving 27 countries..”

He emphasised that be it the trade deal of the European Union or the recent deal with the US, the entire world is openly praising these trade deals. PM Modi said, “When we signed the trade deal with the EU, the world became more confident about the greater likelihood of global stability. After the trade deal with the US, the world became even more confident that with stability, they can sense a speed too. This is a positive sign for the world.”

Comparing the present-day scenario with the time when the Congress was in power, PM Modi questioned how they allowed the country to reach a stage where no nation in the world was willing to enter into a trade deal with India. He said, “You may have tried, you may have made repeated efforts, but no one even looked in your direction. Countries simply were not willing to strike deals with India at that time.”