Dr Jitendra announces RDI fund national call to boost private sector Biotech projects
Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Feb 13: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh today announced the first national call for the BIRAC-RDI Fund, marking a major push to scale high-impact biotechnology innovations under the Government of Indias Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) initiative. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences; and MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the launch reflects a decisive shift in Indias [] The post Dr Jitendra announces RDI fund national call to boost private sector Biotech projects appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
US Slaps 16% Higher Tariffs, Gets Wider access to India
shivaji sarkar The US tariff cut is supposed to be positive for Indian trade and markets. The US administration is propagating it as a great favour to India. The drumbeats announce that a 50 percent tariff is cut to 18 percent.That looks great. The reality is far away from it. Yes, President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff and warned of an additional 25% penalty if India continued buying Russian oil. The penalty remained only a threat, as New Delhi [] The post US Slaps 16% Higher Tariffs, Gets Wider access to India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
DPS Katra celebrates Heritage Day
Excelsior Correspondent REASI, Feb 13: Delhi Public School Katra celebrated Heritage Day with great enthusiasm, showcasing Indias rich cultural legacy through vibrant performances by students. The event was graced by Dr MM Madhavan, Facility Director at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Super Speciality Hospital and Dr Vinod Kumar, Assistant Professor, Department of School of Architecture and Landscape Design, SMVDU. Dr Madhavan appreciated the schools efforts in promoting cultural awareness, while Dr Vinod highlighted the importance of preserving heritage and instilling pride [] The post DPS Katra celebrates Heritage Day appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Pawan Khajuria meets Defence Minister, seeks justice for border people
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 13: Senior political leader from Udhampur, Pawan Khajuria called on Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh in New Delhi and raised several pressing issues concerning Jammu & Kashmir, particularly those affecting residents of border areas. During the meeting, Khajuria drew the Defence Ministers attention to the daily hardships faced by people living in border areas. Referring specifically to Udhampur district, he highlighted that in many cases, despite the transfer of land to the Army, affected families have not [] The post Pawan Khajuria meets Defence Minister, seeks justice for border people appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Siddique, Aryansh dazzle as UAE defeat Canada by 5 wickets
NEW DELHI, Feb 13: Junaid Siddiques five-wicket haul was complemented by Aryansh Sharmas half-century as the United Arab Emirates defeated Canada by five wickets in their ICC Mens T20 World Cup match here on Friday. Senior pacer Siddique headlined a disciplined bowling effort, returning with figures of 5/35 to help UAE restrict Canada to a below-par 150 for 7. Aryansh then struck an unbeaten 74 off 53 balls laced with six fours and three sixes, while Sohaib Khan also played [] The post Siddique, Aryansh dazzle as UAE defeat Canada by 5 wickets appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Delhi High Court refuses anticipatory bail to woman accused of trafficking child
The Judge opined that the womans custodial interrogation was necessary to unearth if more children have been trafficked for such purposes
Palghar Police Arrest Habitual Offender For Cheating Senior Citizen Of 2 Lakh At Bank
Palghar: The Crime Detection Team of Bolinj Police Station has successfully arrested an accused involved in cheating an elderly man inside a bank premises and has recovered assets linked to the offence, police officials said. The incident took place at the State Bank of India (SBI), Virar West, where the accused approached the senior citizen under the pretext of helping him fill out a bank form. On January 9, 2026, the accused gained the victims trust and falsely claimed that the balance amount from the complainants account could be transferred into a mode balance account. Misleading the elderly man, the accused convinced him to withdraw 2,00,000 in cash from his bank account. However, instead of depositing the amount as promised, he allegedly took the money for personal gain and fled, thereby cheating the complainant. Following the complaint, Bolinj Police registered a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. With fraud-related offences increasing in the area, the crime detection team launched an intensive investigation. The accused was initially staying temporarily at a dormitory in Dadar, Mumbai, but had vacated the premises. Police later found that the mobile number provided was false. Further inquiry revealed that the accused was originally from Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh and was frequently travelling between cities such as Lucknow and Delhi to evade arrest. On January 26, 2026, police received information that he had returned to Mumbai. Using technical and cyber investigation skills, PSI Kiran Vanjari and his team successfully tracked and arrested the accused in Dadar. Fake Call Centre Saga: CBI Grills Nashik, Palghar Cops Over Igatpuri Call Centre Operations Also Watch: The arrested accused has been identified as Brijkumar Santoshkumar Wadhwani (62). During the investigation, police seized a mobile phone worth 25,500 and lien-marked 1,51,287 from the accuseds bank account. In total, assets worth 1,76,787 were recovered. The investigation also led to the detection of another related fraud case registered at Malad Police Station in Mumbai. Police stated that the accused is a habitual offender with several cheating and fraud cases registered against him across Maharashtra and Gujarat, including Amravati, Bhusawal, Wardha, Vadodara and Gondia. Further inquiries are ongoing. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Govt Circumvents Perceived Plot, Expedites Womens Aid
Allegedly that was a conspiracy by some forces in New Delhi and their minions in the State to approach the court and also make other efforts to stop the distribution of assistance citing the coming Assembly elections as the reason.
BJP got 82% of Rs 3,826 cr donated in 2024-25
ADR says Prudent Electoral Trust disbursed biggest amount to 15 political parties New Delhi: Electoral trusts received Rs 3,826.34 crore in contributions in financial year 2024-25 and disbursed Rs 3,826.35 crore to political parties, with BJP receiving more than 82 per cent of the funds, the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) said on Friday. In []
Congress seeks Union minister Puris resignation
Party MPs protest in Parliament over Epstein link New Delhi: The Congress on Friday demanded Union minister Hardeep Singh Puris resignation as his name figures in the Epstein files released in the United States and asked on whose behalf was he interacting with Jeffrey Epstein, who was convicted for sexual crimes with children. Addressing a []
Bengal coal scam: ED attaches assets worth Rs 100 crore
New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday said it has attached fresh assets worth Rs 100 crore as part of its money laundering probe into alleged illegal mining and coal theft in West Bengal, which it claimed garnered active assistance from the local administration. The most recent searches in this case were conducted in []
Rahul meets farmers, discusses movement against trade deal
New Delhi: Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi met farm union leaders from across the country in the Parliament House complex on Friday and discussed with them the need for a countrywide movement to oppose the India-US interim trade deal as well as safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers and farm labourers. []
Pothole-related deaths across country rise 53% in 5 years
UP accounts for over half of 9,400 fatalities New Delhi: Deaths caused by pothole-related road accidents have risen by 53% over the past five years, with 9,438 people killed across the country between 2020 and 2024, the government informed Parliament. Uttar Pradesh alone accounted for more than 54 per cent of these fatalities, emerging as []
Nr Railway to run Holi special trains from Katra to Delhi, Varanasi
Jammu Tawi, Feb 13:To manage the expected rush during Holi, Northern Railway will run special reserved trains from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to New Delhi and Varanasi, officials said on Friday. According to the officials from Jammu Division, special train numbers 04081/04082 will run between New Delhi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, while [] The post Nr Railway to run Holi special trains from Katra to Delhi, Varanasi appeared first on Northlines .
3 Sexual Harassment complaints reported in JK since 2024
New Delhi, Feb 13:The Government of India on Friday informed the Lok Sabha that three complaints of sexual harassment at workplace have been reported from Jammu and Kashmir in Government offices and affiliated departments since the launch of the SHe-Box portal in August 2024. Replying to Unstarred Question No. 2490, raised by MP Sudama Prasad, [] The post 3 Sexual Harassment complaints reported in JK since 2024 appeared first on Northlines .
AIIMS Vijaypur functional, AIIMS Awantipora under construction
New Delhi, Feb 13:The Government of India has informed the Lok Sabha that while the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Vijaypur in Jammu division is fully functional, the AIIMS at Awantipora in Kashmir division is still under construction. Replying to unstarred Question No. 2466 in the Lok Sabha, raised by MP Abhishek [] The post AIIMS Vijaypur functional, AIIMS Awantipora under construction appeared first on Northlines .
How Delhi Plans To Safeguard Govt Data
Rekha launches 51 more Arogya Mandirs, targets total of 1,100
India wraps up Asian Shooting Championships 2026 campaign in New Delhi with 7 medals
India wrapped up their Asian Shooting Championships 2026 campaign in New Delhi with seven medals on the final day, to take their overall tally in senior rifle and pistol events to 33, including 13 gold, 11 silver and nine bronze. Amanpreet Singh clinched gold in the 25m centre fire pistol, topping the field with a []
Scuffle breaks out between two student groups during DU protest
Why DDA cant move ahead with Signature View razing
CM seeks reports on all excavation work within three days
K.C. Singh | Will BNPs Big Win Lead To Reset Of Delhi-Dhaka Ties?
The BNP-led alliance reportedly leads with 216 seats out of 299 seats, with that led by Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) having won 76 seats. JeI is questioning the elections integrity and not yet conceding defeat
Bengal Chief Secretary appears before Election Commission over compliance lapses
West Bengal Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty appeared before the Election Commission of India in New Delhi following summons over non-compliance issues, including FIRs against officials and unauthorized transfers. The ECI cautioned her and directed future adherence to its directives. The commission also appointed a Special Observer to oversee poll preparedness and conduct.
French president Emmanuel Macron, Bazil's Lula to attend AI Impact Summit in Delhi
Visiting heads of state include those from Estonia, Slovakia, SL, Serbia & Switzerland
Manipur Cabinet Expansion: 2 more Kuki ministers likely
Manipur's state cabinet expansion is anticipated on February 23 or 24. The council of ministers will increase in strength. A senior BJP leader indicated the possibility of two more ministers from the Kuki community joining the government. Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh is in New Delhi for discussions on the cabinet expansion.
Illegal felling of trees: NGT asks officer to take action
Dr, no! Patchy Wi-Fi hurts residents, students
Delhi moves first: PM Modi extends best wishes to Bangladesh's future PM Tarique Rahman on win
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Tarique Rahman on his partys decisive win in the parliamentary elections, becoming the first world leader to speak with him after the result.
UP Has Most EVs, But Delhi Guzzles Max Power At Public Charging Stns
Guptas change of plea marks a dramatic turn in the case that has created a buzz in both Washington and New Delhi
The Buddha comes alive in relics from Piprahwa in this truly immersive exhibition in Delhi
An exhibition in Delhi celebrates the Buddha's relics. The Piprahwa bone relic, reliquaries, and jewels are on display. These artifacts were saved from auction and are now reunited. The exhibition traces the history of the relics from the Buddha's time to their modern-day veneration. Visitors experience the relics and learn about their journey.
Northern Railway to Run Holi Special Trains from Katra to Delhi, Varanasi
SRINAGAR: To manage the expected rush during Holi, Northern Railway will run special reserved trains from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to New Delhi and Varanasi, officials said on Friday. According to the officials from Jammu Division, special train numbers 04081/04082 will run between New Delhi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, while train numbers []
T20 WC: Staying Calm To Make UAE Win In Dhoni's Way - How Sohaib Khan Pulled Off A Great Escape
ICC Cricket World Cup League: With the evening glow in full view at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, tension was palpable in the UAE dugout - 85 runs needed off 45 balls and Canada's spinners tightening the noose in a chase of 151. Wicketkeeper-batter Aryansh Sharma, born in Noida but raised in Dubai, was leading the UAEs charge, but was running out of partners from the other end. When a little-known Sohaib Khan joined him, many felt the native of Kothi village in Bihar's Naxal-affected Imamganj region would fall cheaply, considering that he was yet to set the international cricket arena alight. But then, Sohaib had the wise words of the legendary MS Dhoni in his mind. Not the words spoken in World Cup triumphs or winning the IPL trophy five times, but it was one golden piece of advice from the Dhoni book of philosophy, which stayed with Sohaib - the one who is calm when chaos comes, turns pressure into possibility. What transpired was a heist Sohaib smacked a blistering 51 off 29 balls that resurrected UAEs chase of 151 and took them over the line with two balls to spare. A sensational knock laced with four boundaries and four sixes that gave UAE just their third win ever at a major ICC event. The strategy was quite simple. We were requiring only 12 runs per over. So as MS Dhoni said, when you are on the pitch and if it requires more pressure, game. So just back yourself, be calm. That's okay, as I was thinking the same, Sohaib would say later in the post-match press conference, his eyes still carrying the disbelief of what had just transpired. At 68/4 in the 13th over, the UAE appeared destined for collecting their second loss in as many games. Their batting pillars - Muhammad Waseem and Alishan Sharafu, both half-centurions in a losing cause against New Zealand days earlier - had departed cheaply. Canada's left-arm spinner Saad Bin Zafar had ripped through the middle order, his 3-14 putting the game beyond the UAEs reach. But Sohaib, the financial consultant who worked days and played cricket under Dubai's floodlights, turned the game on its head to get a famous victory for the UAE. Incidentally, the win came in the city where he started serious cricket barely a dozen years ago in the corridors of the prestigious Jamia Millia Islamia, where he did his 10+2 studies and graduated with a degree in Sociology. All I can say - this was my home where I started professional cricket. I played around three to four years from 2014 to 19 and played two consecutive North Zone tournaments from Jamia - 2017 and 2018. Honestly speaking, this is beyond the game. When I came out to bat on the wicket, I was thinking this was the situation. I moved to the UAE in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. I was not getting many opportunities here. I was married, and my daughter and my wife were there. I thought this was the game - what I can do my best. I have struggled a lot in the past 4-5 years. If I get this phase, then it's okay - what else can I ask from God? he said. With a compact stance and middling the ball well, the Sohaib show was on for 6325 fans in the stadium. Dilon Heyliger's 17th over disappeared for 17 runs a six over midwicket, a lofted four over mid-off, and another maximum straight into the sight-screen. Jaskarandeep Singh fared no better in the 18th, conceding a four and six off the first two deliveries. By the time he reached his half-century off just 28 balls, UAE needed eight off the final over. The impossible had become inevitable. Eleven runs through long-on, 16 through midwicket - it told how Sohaib had a simple plan to dismantle Canada. But the real narrative was in the eyes of a man who'd played tennis-ball cricket in a village with barely any facilities, who'd juggled stock market consultancy with night cricket in the UAE. At that time, the situation was tense as twelve runs per over were required. So I thought to back my instinct and just back my natural talent to do what I was doing that time. The mindset was to target the small boundary in front of us, and whatever kind of ball we got, we had to hit the boundary. Anyway, we were requiring one six or one boundary in an over, Sohaib said. None of it would have mattered without Aryansh at the other end. The pair added 84 runs, with Aryansh's unbeaten 74 off 53 balls providing the anchor to Sohaib's storm. Before going out to bat, words of belief from head coach, former India opener Lalchand Rajput, and positivity from Aryansh rubbed well on Sohaib. Before Aryansh and me, I would like to give the biggest credit to our coach, Lalchand Rajput, and the entire management. When I was going to bat, they were saying only one thing - just believe in yourself. This is the time; you can do it. The way they have worked on me over the past two months is because I am a debutant right now in the setup. Two months earlier, I made my debut in ODI and came to the T20I setup, that was his belief. After going in, Aryansh was so confident that his positivity was coming to me, that we could do it. From every ball, he was like, 'No, we will do it. We'll do it.' You can see his expressions in the highlights of the match. So that was the game part, he said. Though Sohaib top-edged in the final over to depart with UAE needing one off three balls, by then, he had written the script in his teams favour. Sohaibs journey from Kothi village to this moment had been anything but straight. Sohaib's father, Adeeb Khan, alias Jugnu Khan, a farmer and social worker, always gave priority to the education of his kids. When cricket came into the picture for Sohaib, who began playing the sport as a six-year-old, the family gave him full support. To date, Sohaib runs Kothi Club, and has facilities for anyone eager to pursue the sport seriously. From Jamia Millia Islamia in 2014 under coach Sanjay Gill and the mentorship of Prof Nafis Ahmad, with the Gaya District Cricket Association coming in between, three seasons of inter-university cricket, and stints with corporate teams like Collage, Uflex, and FCI in Delhi-NCR, Sohaib had cobbled together a cricketing education. In 2021, after playing for Bihar didnt work for him, he took a leap of faith on seeing a vacancy and moved to the UAE, where he represented Ajman Cricket Council in Emirates Cricket Board tournaments the D50, D20, and D10 formats. Four years of playing at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, and ICC Academy followed. A Development Tournament call-up from Dubai Capitals in September 2025 brought recognition, even if the ILT20 auction didn't. In the UAE, I was a financial consultant and salesperson. I worked during the day. The infrastructure there is such that we play cricket at night and work during the day, and that's what I did. For the last four to five months, I've been playing proper cricket there. I currently work at a financial consulting company named Prospero, a stock marketing company. I graduated from Jamia in Sociology. But destiny, as Sohaib discovered, works in mysterious ways. His national call-up came on October 24, 2025, for the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 Tri-Series, before being named in the squad for the T20 World Cup. In the UAE, I was a financial consultant and salesperson. I worked during the day. The infrastructure there is such that we play cricket at night and work during the day, and that's what I did. For the last four to five months, I've been playing proper cricket there. I currently work at a financial consulting company named Prospero, a stock marketing company. I graduated from Jamia in Sociology. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I believed that we can do it, considering we have done it before, and we can do it again. Out of 10, you can do it 3-4 times, when you believe in yourself, Sohaib said. On a February evening in Delhi, with pressure mounting and the dream of a win slipping away, that belief in Sohaib - borrowed from Dhoni's mantra, forged in Bihar's dusty tennis-ball battles, and hardened in Dubais cricketing circuit - was enough to get a memorable win for the UAE and go from little known to being in the spotlight of victory. Article Source: IANS
AIIMS Delhi gears up for face transplant surgeries
A cadaveric workshop and academic training program are being hosted by the institute till Feb. 15
As the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) prepares to steer the nation for the next five years, it inherits a landscape that is both hopeful and deeply restive. After nearly two decades of political stifling, the recent elections have been hailed by South Asian observers as a landmark moment for the countrys democratic health. However, the victory is merely the beginning of an arduous journey. For the BNP and its primary ally-turned-competitor, the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), this is a generational opportunity to consolidate their bases. For the exiled Awami League (AL), the horizon is bleak, yet a tiny window of resurgence remains, as BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman has consistently signalled his commitment to a level playing field for all political actors. A mandate of credibility The success of the recent polls cannot be overstated. Michael Kugelman, a resident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, characterised the election as elatively peaceful, noting the absence of major rigging allegations and a solid voter turnout. Similarly, Thomas Kean of the Crisis Group remarked that this represents the first truly credible election in 17 years. For a nation that has endured eighteen months of visceral street violence and systemic instability, the mere act of a peaceful transition is a victory in itself. Yet, as the dust settles on the polling booths, the reality of governance begins to loom. The Herculean economic task The BNPs primary challenge lies in the harder part of the job: economic resuscitation. The legacy of the previous administration is a paradox of high growth on paper but deep structural rot in reality. Bangladesh currently grapples with a soaring rich-poor divide, rising youth unemployment and a poverty rate that threatens to erase a decade of progress. Investor confidence remains brittle, and while foreign currency reserves have shown marginal improvements recently, they remain wobbly. Rahman has promised to instil fiscal discipline; however, his poll promises were built on heavy welfare commitments. Specifically, the BNP has pledged cash and commodity support to roughly four million hyper-poor families. While socially necessary, this creates an immense burden on the national exchequer. Without a clear roadmap for revenue generation or a boost in the GDPwhich has dipped significantly from its six per cent peak during the Awami erathe BNP risks a fiscal crisis within its first two years of governance. It expects to take the GDP rate over 5%, which is a seriously uphill task. The geopolitical tightrope Foreign policy will be the ultimate test of Rahmans diplomatic acumen. He must engage with an Indian government that has historically viewed the BNP with scepticismlargely owing to the BNPs uneasy relationship with Delhi between 2001 and 06, when it last ruled Bangladeshand which currently hosts his primary rival, Sheikh Hasina. The stakes are immediate: the 30-year Ganga River water-sharing agreement is set to expire next winter. If a renewal is not secured, Bangladesh, as a lower riparian state, faces a catastrophic water shortage that would devastate its agricultural backbone, further damaging the economy. The complexity is compounded by the Pakistan factor. There is a growing perception that resentment against Delhis perceived interference is pushing Dhaka toward Islamabad. Rahman must navigate this tightrope carefully. He needs to secure water and visa concessions from India while managing the domestic sentiment that favours a pivot toward Pakistan. In South Asian politics, this is a zero-sum game that rarely allows for a middle ground, yet the BNPs anxiety may reduce if they can figure out a workable relationship. The secular identity crisis Perhaps the most virulent and invisible challenge lies in the ideological sphere. The past year and a half has witnessed the proliferation of extreme violent online campaigns. Certain factions have openly celebrated the rise of Al Qaeda-backed radicalism in the region, advocating for a Sharia-compliant regime and opposing the participation of women in public life. Tarique Rahman has been vocal in defending his partys secular credentials while being caught between a rock and a hard place. The 2024 July movement demanded a change in the system and the constitution, leading to a proposed referendum. While the BNP views this as a democratic necessity, there are fears that such a referendum could inadvertently weaken the secular fabric of the state, benefiting the religious right in the long run. Rahman may have to figure out a strategy that honours the revolutionary spirit of the July movement without surrendering the states pluralistic identity to extremist forces. This will restrict his main opposition, Jamaat-e-Islami, which is an emerging religious force, in coming years. The rise of Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) While the BNP won the mandate to lead, the JeI-led alliance has emerged as the moral victor in the context of performance. Delivering its best-ever performance in history and led by the energetic chief Shafiqur Rahman, JeI has positioned itself as the true alternative to the secular status quo. The JeIs strategy is sophisticated. The cadre-based party has successfully marketed the idea that since Bangladesh has been ruled by two secular parties (Awami League and BNP) with mixed results, a eligious value-based system deserves a trial. Many believe that JeIs golden age is just beginning, and it could be positioned to capture power outright within the next decade. Many diplomats too are of the view that JeI has a fair chance to capture power in the next five to ten years depending on its performance over the next five years. Their current challenge is about transition. Traditionally a party of the streets, JeI now occupies 25% of the parliamentary seatsthe highest in its history. It must now learn the tricks of parliamentary politics and legislative manoeuvring. If it can maintain its core ideological value system while proving to be an effective, disciplined opposition within the House, it will emerge as the primary threat to the BNPs centrist-right platform. Awami Leagues prospects The fate of the Awami League (AL) remains the most contentious variable in the new Bangladeshi political equation. Following the February 2026 polls, the partys leader and former prime minister, Sheikh Hasinacurrently residing in exilehas dismissed the election as a farce. However, political analysts suggest that the AL and its leadership must move beyond rhetoric to survive. The opportunity for the Awami League is rooted in a thumb rule of South Asian politics: anti-incumbency usually sets in within the first two to three years of a new mandate. As the BNP begins the difficult task of governing a restive nation, it will face the daunting challenge of managing a resurgent Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI). Despite its past alliances, the BNP is not a non-secular party by design; it is a nationalist entity that must now compete for the same right-of-centre and centrist votes that JeI is rapidly absorbing. To counter the JeIs growing influencewhich saw the Islamist party secure a staggering 25% of seatsthe BNP will eventually find it strategically necessary to allow, or even encourage, the presence of other secular and liberal parties. This is where the Awami Leagues potential lies. Rather than retreating into exile-induced irrelevance, the party needs to assess if it can relaunch itself as a reformed, moderate force capable of grabbing the secular space that the BNP will be forced to concede. A nation at the crossroads Ultimately, the growth of Islamist parties indicates that the Bangladeshi electorate is no longer as averse to religious politics as it once was. Whether this is a permanent ideological shift or a temporary reaction to the perceived secular authoritarianism of the previous regime remains to be seen. For Tarique Rahman and the BNP, the next five years will be a trial by fire. Their mandate is not merely about managing a crumbling economy, fixing the rich-poor divide or navigating the expiration of the Ganga River water-sharing treaty; it is about proving that a democratic, secular state can provide bread, water and dignity that its people so desperately crave. Bangladesh stands at its most critical juncture since 1971. The decisions made in the hallowed halls of Parliament over the next five years will determine if the country remains a pluralistic democracy or moves toward a new, religion-led political paradigm. The BNP has the mandate, the JeI has the momentum and the Awami League has the memory of power. How these three forces interact will define the future of South Asian geopolitics for a generation. The writer is a senior journalist.
Crackdown on drug traffickers: Police freeze assets worth nearly Rs 1 crore
A boy from Bihar, now the man for UAE: Sohaib Khan's Gaya-to-glory story
Sohaib Khans 51 off 29 anchored UAEs chase against Canada, but the innings was more than numbers. Born in Bihar and shaped in Delhis Jamia, he moved to the UAE during COVID, working as a financial consultant while chasing cricket at night. On a World Cup stage in Delhi, the late bloomer proved a boy from Gaya could become a hero for UAE.
Give some acknowledgement to Dhrupad singer, Supreme Court asks A.R. Rahman
A Bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi was hearing a plea by Mr. Wasifuddin Dagar against the September 2025 Delhi High Court order, which had held there was no prima facie evidence of the Junior Dagar Brothers being the authors of a classical rendition of Shiv Stuti.
Telangana: ED arrests fertility clinic owner in surrogacy racket probe
New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate on Friday, February 13, said it has arrested a doctor, who owns a Telangana-based fertility centre, on money laundering charges for allegedly running a surrogacy racket. The doctor has been accused of sourcing infants from poor and vulnerable parents and presenting them as babies born out of surrogacy. Dr Athuluri Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
New Delhi, 13th February, 2026: The Special Court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Delhi on Friday sentenced two overground workers (OGWs) of the Pakistan Army backed banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist outfit to a maximum of 15 years of imprisonment in RC-11/2016/NIA/DLI, for providing shelter, food and logistic support to a heavily armed Pakistani [] The post NIA DELHI COURT SENTENCES 2 OGWs of LeT TERROR OUTFIT IN 2016 CASE FOR AIDING & FACILITATING PAK TERRORIST IN KASHMIR appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Traffic advisories issued for JLN stadium concert in evening
Mumbai, Feb 13: At the recently concluded 5th India Open International Kickboxing Cup 2026, a prestigious international-level tournament held at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, the Mumbai kickboxing team delivered a spectacular and commendable performance, winning a flurry of gold, silver and bronze medals. The competition witnessed participation from athletes representing Poland, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Iraq, Algeria, Egypt and India. Facing tough competition from world-class opponents, the Mumbai team showcased exceptional skill and determination, securing a total of 9 gold, 6 silver and 5 bronze medals, thereby elevating Mumbais reputation on the international stage. Excellence across multiple formats Demonstrating rigorous training, disciplined preparation, confidence and fighting spirit, Mumbai athletes excelled across multiple events including Point Fight, Light Contact, Kick Light, K-1 and Creative Forms. Outstanding individual performances Outstanding individual performances included: Vince Patil 1 Gold, 1 Bronze Alok Breed 1 Silver, 1 Bronze Sahil Baperkar 1 Silver Ashwini Jamble 1 Silver, 1 Bronze Yatharth Budmala 2 Gold Syed Ahmed 1 Silver, 1 Bronze Durva Gavde 1 Gold, 1 Silver Grisham Patwardhan 2 Gold, 1 Silver Rajeev Rajesh 1 Gold, 1 Bronze Siddhant Gupta 2 Gold Coaching and organisational support This historic success was strongly supported by the guidance, quality training and consistent encouragement of Umesh Murkar, President of the Sports Kick Boxing Association, Mumbai City, and Vighnesh Murkar, International Referee. Additionally, through the Gurukul Kruti Foundation Trust, athletes received essential training equipment and international-level preparation, which played a crucial role in this achievement. Nilesh Shelar, President of the Maharashtra Kickboxing Association, and Santosh Kumar Agrawal, President of WAKO India, congratulated all the winning athletes and wished them success in their future endeavours. Team Coach Bhupesh Vaity and Referee Ashish Mahadik also played significant roles during the competition. Also Watch: Dream Sports MSSA Inter-School Football Tournament: Ascend International Win U-10 Division 2 Title, Smt RSB AVM Take Third Place This remarkable achievement has drawn widespread appreciation and congratulations for the athletes, coaches and team management at all levels. Best wishes are being extended for continued strong performances in the future, bringing further glory to the nation on the international platform. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Truck hits scooty on Mathura Road, kills 19-year-old student
Nagesh Trophy: Karnataka Beat Delhi In Super Over To Bag National T20 Cricket Title
National T20 Cricket Tournament: In one of the most electrifying finishes in Indian blind cricket history, Karnataka were crowned national champions after a jaw-dropping Super Over victory by just one run against Delhi in the grand finale of the 8th Edition of the Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2025 at Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Gurugram. The tournament was organised under the aegis of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and supported by Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting Cricket for the Blind and empowering visually impaired cricketers across the country. In a heart-stopping, high-adrenaline contest, Delhi posted a commanding 216/6 in the summit clash, led by captain Manish Kumars explosive 79 off 46 balls and a fluent 70 off 44 deliveries by Irfan (B1). In response, Karnataka produced one of the most dominant chases in the tournaments history, finishing at an astonishing 216/0. Sunil Ramesh (B3) delivered a breathtaking 145 off 79 balls at a staggering strike-rate of 183.54, brilliantly supported by Lokeshas composed 56 off 41 balls. With the scores tied at 216, the championship was pushed into a nail-biting Super Over. Delhi managed 10 runs, but Karnataka held their nerve, scoring 11 to clinch the title dramatically sealing victory by just one run and etching their name into history. Sunil Ramesh was named Player of the Match for his match-defining innings. The Players of the Series honours were awarded to Sanjay Kumar Shah (B1), Rambir Singh (B2), and Sunil Ramesh (B3) for their outstanding performances throughout the 73-match tournament featuring 29 teams from across India. Sunil Ramesh was named Player of the Match for his match-defining innings and received a cash award of 10,000. The Players of the Series honours were awarded to Sanjay Kumar Shah (B1), Rambir Singh (B2), and Sunil Ramesh (B3), who each received 20,000 in recognition of their outstanding performances across the 73-match tournament featuring 29 teams from across India. The championship-winning Karnataka team was awarded 1,50,000, while runners-up Delhi received 1,25,000, underscoring the growing recognition, competitive excellence, and increasing professionalisation of blind cricket in India. Players of the Series honours were awarded to Sanjay Kumar Shah (B1), Rambir Singh (B2), and Sunil Ramesh (B3), who each received 20,000 in recognition of their outstanding performances across the 73-match tournament featuring 29 teams from across India. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CABI, the apex governing body for blind cricket in India, in partnership with Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, has been instrumental in building structured pathways for visually impaired cricketers from grassroots development to elite national competition. Their sustained efforts have placed India at the forefront of global blind cricket. Article Source: IANS
Mumbai, Feb 13: The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) levied a fine of Rs 1 crore on Air India for operating an aircraft without the requisite airworthiness certification. The Tata Group-owned airline voluntarily reported to the DGCA that one of its Airbus A320 Neo aircraft flew on eight routes after its airworthiness review certificate (ARC) expired. The Free Press Journal had reported on December 2 that the DGCA was probing an incident of Air India operating an A320 Neo aircraft without the ARC on at least eight routes. The inquiry was initiated after the airline informed the aviation regulator on November 26 about the expired ARC. DGCA imposes penalty On Friday, the DGCA ordered Air India to pay a fine of Rs 1 crore for the violations. Upon enquiry, Air India acknowledged the fine while adding that the airline had voluntarily reported the incident to the DGCA. All identified gaps have since been satisfactorily addressed and shared with the authority. Air India remains unwavering in its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of operational integrity and safety, said an Air India spokesperson. ARC renewal and grounding ARC is issued annually in respect of an aircraft after a comprehensive review of its maintenance records, physical condition and verification of compliance with all airworthiness standards. It is a validation of an aircraft's main Certificate of Airworthiness (C of A). Under the norms, Air India has been delegated the powers to issue the ARC for an aircraft. Also Watch: DGCA Issues Showcause Notice To Air India Pilots Over Safety Concerns On Flights Between Delhi & Tokyo, Seeks Explaination In 14 Days The incident involved the erstwhile Vistara aircraft, which awaited the first ARC renewal post-merger of Vistara with Air India. The DGCA has issued ARC for 69 aircraft after compliance by Air India, whereas the 70th aircraft was grounded for an engine change, during which its ARC expired. With the initiation of the investigation, the DGCA had instructed the operator to ground the aircraft and de-roster the concerned personnel until the investigation was completed. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Top 5 real estate hotspots in Noida to watch in 2026
As the Delhi-NCR real estate landscape continues to evolve, Noida remains one of the most attractive markets for both home buyers and investors in 2026. The region offers a perfect mix of developed infrastructure, new developments including the upcoming Noida International Airport in Jewar along with great metro and Yamuna expressway connectivity.
IndiGo gets approval for one-stop Istanbul flights
Airline to operate A320 services via technical halt from Mumbai and Delhi until second A321XLR joins fleet
DSSSB MTS 2026 admit card out: Check steps to download, direct link, exam instructions and more
The Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board has released admit cards for its Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) Recruitment 2026 examination, with 714 vacancies available. Candidates can download their hall tickets from the official DSSSB website. The selection process involves a computer-based written examination, and candidates must carry their admit card and a valid photo ID to the center.
MCD clears Rs 17,583 crore Budget for 202627, sanitation gets top billing
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has approved a Rs 17,583 crore budget for 2026-27. Sanitation and waste management are central to this plan. Significant funds are allocated for clearing landfill sites and improving urban cleanliness. The budget also includes tax relief for rural homeowners and welfare schemes for municipal staff. Public health infrastructure will see expansion.
T20 WC: Waseem Hails Siddiques Five-wicket Haul, Urges UAE To Improve Middle-overs Batting
T20 World Cup: UAE captain Muhammad Waseem praised his sides belief and resilience after their five-wicket win over Canada in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, while also calling for improvements in batting during the middle overs. At the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Friday, Aryansh Sharmas 74 not out and Sohaib Khans 51 helped UAE chase down 151 with two balls to spare. To be honest, the situation was simple. I went inside during the break and told them (Aryansh and Sohaib) to keep believing in themselves. They showed the world their ability, and the way they played makes me very happy for them, Waseem said after the match ended. He acknowledged that the team needed to sharpen its approach between overs seven and 16. I think we have to improve our batting in the middle overs, specifically from the 7th to the 16th over. We need to look after that phase. Inshallah, we will work on that for the upcoming games because that is one part of the match where we need to improve, he said. Waseem also lauded pacer Junaid Siddique, who claimed 5-35 to restrict Canada to 150. I'm very happy for him. He is a very experienced bowler and the leader of our bowling attack. He took five wickets today, and I think he will keep that momentum going in the upcoming games, he said. Siddique, named Player of the Match, said he had worked closely with coaches to adapt to the conditions. The pitch was good. We worked with our coaches on how to bowl in these conditions. I wanted to hit the hard lengths and try to mix things up with slower balls. I was trying to bowl some quicker balls and then go for my best slower balls into the wicket, he said. Reflecting on Canadas innings, Siddique added, In the first innings, we thought they might be going for 160 or 170. We bowled very well in the last few overs and knew that 150 was a chaseable total. Siddique, named Player of the Match, said he had worked closely with coaches to adapt to the conditions. The pitch was good. We worked with our coaches on how to bowl in these conditions. I wanted to hit the hard lengths and try to mix things up with slower balls. I was trying to bowl some quicker balls and then go for my best slower balls into the wicket, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Asked where Canada fell behind in the game, Bajwa said, When we were taking wickets, we didn't manage to keep the momentum going. That is where we lacked. Our fast bowlers didn't stick to their plans, and that cost us the game. Our spinners and middle order are doing very well. We are just expecting our top order to get some runs and our fast bowlers to find their lines again. Article Source: IANS
T20 WC: Junaid, Aryansh shine as UAE down Canada by 5 wickets in Delhi
With this win, the UAE is in third place in Group D with one win and one loss, behind New Zealand and South Africa, who have won both their games. With matches left against South Africa and Afghanistan, the UAE is still in contention for a Super Eight spot. However, that outcome is far less likely for Canada, which has lost both of its matches so far.
T20 WC: Aryansh, Sohaib Fifties Power UAE To Thrilling Five-wicket Win Over Canada (ld)
T20 World Cup: Riding on Aryansh Sharmas unbeaten 74 and Sohaib Khans blistering 51, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) pulled off a five-wicket win over Canada in their Group D clash of the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Friday. Earlier, on a used pitch, Junaid Siddiques five-wicket haul restricted Canada to 150/7, setting up a contest that swung dramatically before Aryansh and Sohaib shared a match-defining 84-run stand to seal UAEs first win of the competition. UAE slipped to 66/4 in the chase of 151, but Aryansh held firm at one end even as Canadas spinners tightened their grip through the middle overs. With the required rate climbing, Sohaibs arrival changed the momentum. He launched four sixes and four boundaries in a blistering counterattack, while adding 84 runs with Aryansh off just 42 balls. Sharma anchored the chase with measured strokeplay, finishing unbeaten from 53 deliveries, hitting six fours and three sixes. But Sohaibs aggression rattled Canadas bowlers in the closing overs and turned the game around for the UAE. Veteran all-rounder Saad Bin Zafar was the standout for Canada with figures of 3-14, but his efforts were not enough to prevent the UAEs late surge. The victory underlined the UAEs batting depth beyond their senior pros, skipper Muhammad Waseem and Alishan Sharafu, as Aryansh and Sohaib stepped up to secure the win with two balls to spare. UAEs chase began on a false note as Waseem was cramped for room on a pull and top-edged to midwicket off Kaleem Sana. Sharma, however, looked fluent - unfurling a back-foot punch through the covers off Dilon Heyliger and then launching Jaskaran Singh for a six over cow corner, before following it up with two more boundaries in the fifth over. Alishan Sharafu struggled to find timing at the other end and miscued a lofted drive to extra cover off Zafar. Mayank Kumar joined Sharma, but Zafar struck again in his next over, as he holed out to long-on. Harshit Kaushik briefly lifted hopes with an edged boundary off Bajwa, but he too perished to Zafars guile, picking out midwicket. At 66/4 in 12.3 overs, Canada had seized control. But the chase turned on its head when Sohaib Khan arrived. He announced himself with a six over long-on off Ansh Patel and then combined forces with Sharma for launching a superb counter-attack. Aryansh brought up his fifty with a towering hit over long-on off Patel, while Sohaib cleared the ropes twice in Heyligers 16th over, including a straight strike into the sight screen, apart from a lofted four going over mid-off. Suddenly, the required rate was back within reach for the UAE. The 18th over saw Sohaib hammer Jaskaran for a four through vacant extra cover region and a six over the long-on fence. By that time, Canada looked rattled, their bowlers missing yorkers and offering width. When Sana returned, the UAE needed 26 off 12 balls. Sharma leaned and pulled twice to get three fours, while Sohaib capitalised on a beamer with a free-hit four, before getting his fifty with a brace through long-on region. The pairs audacious strokeplay left UAE within touching distance, with the crowd sensing a finish that had seemed improbable just a few overs earlier. Though Sohaib mistimed a loft to mid-on, after Aryansh pulled Jaskaran for six and did a fist-punch to signal they were closer to crossing the finishing line, Muhammad Arfan got the required single to get a memorable win for UAE over Canada. Previously, Siddique was the standout bowler for the UAE, claiming his five-wicket haul with disciplined pace variations and having the best bowling figures for an Associate bowler in this edition of the tournament. Muhammad Jawadullah provided him excellent support with an economical spell of 1-16. UAEs tight efforts meant Canada lost both openers inside the first four overs and slipped to 39-3 at the end of the Powerplay. Thaker hit two fours and three sixes in a 41-ball fifty, while combining with Navneet Dhaliwal in a 58-run stand for the fourth wicket. But Dhaliwals run out for 34 in the 13th over proved to be a turning point, and despite Thaker getting his fifty, Canada struggled to find boundaries as UAEs bowlers tightened their lines, as 23 runs came off the last three overs. Siddique struck in his very first over by having Canada captain Dilpreet Bajwa mistime a drive to mid-off. In his next over, Siddique had Yuvraj Samra lofting tamely to mid-on. Nicholas Kirton joined Dhaliwal, and though the latter unfurled a stylish drive and punch, Canada slipped further when Kirton edged behind off Jawadullah, leaving the side at 39/3 in power-play. The middle overs saw a revival, as Dhaliwal and Thaker mixed caution with aggression. Thaker broke free with a towering six over long-on and a cut through point off Haider Ali, before taking a boundary each off Muhammad Farooq and Muhammad Arfan respectively. Dhaliwal showcased his timing with straight drives and inside-out strokes over cover off Farooq, as the pair shared a 58-run stand off 47 balls. Just as Dhaliwal looked set, disaster struck when attempting a quick single in the 13th over; he was run out by a direct hit from short fine leg. Replays showed Dhaliwals bat was stuck on the line, and his desperate lunge with the foot falling short, leaving him dejected. With Dhaliwal gone, Thaker marched forward to complete his half-century off 40 balls. But he fell on the next ball he faced trying to loft off a slower ball from Siddique, but holed out to cover. In the final over, Siddique had Shreyas Movva miscuing to mid-off, while forcing Saad Bin Zafar to pull a short ball straight to deep mid-wicket, giving the pacer his fifth wicket of the match, and he bowed down in sajda as the celebration. Though Dilon Heyliger hit a six on the last ball over deep midwicket to take Canada to 150, UAE eventually completed the chase easily by getting 56 runs in overs 17-20. In the final over, Siddique had Shreyas Movva miscuing to mid-off, while forcing Saad Bin Zafar to pull a short ball straight to deep mid-wicket, giving the pacer his fifth wicket of the match, and he bowed down in sajda as the celebration. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Canada 150/7 in 20 overs (Harsh Thaker 50, Navneet Dhaliwal 34; Junaid Siddique 5-35, Muhammad Jawadullah 1-16) lost to UAE 151/5 in 19.4 overs (Aryansh Sharma 74 not out, Sohaib Khan 51; Saad Bin Zafar 3-14, Kaleem Sana 1-29) by five wickets Article Source: IANS
DSSSB MTS admit card 2026 released at dsssb.delhi.gov.in: Direct link to download hall ticket here
The Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board has released the Multi-Tasking Staff admit card for 2026. Candidates can download their hall tickets from the official website. This recruitment drive aims to fill 714 vacancies. The selection process includes a computer-based written examination and document verification. Candidates must carry their admit card to the examination centre.
New Delhi, Feb 13: Precious metals prices declined more than 5 per cent in the national capital on Friday, with silver declining to Rs 2.55 lakh per kilogram, while gold dropped to Rs 1.58 lakh per 10 grams amid subdued demand in the local market. According to the All India Sarafa Association, the white metal slumped Rs 13,500, or 5.03 per cent, to Rs 2,55,000 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes). It ended at Rs 2,68,500 per kg on Thursday. Gold of 99.9 per cent purity also dived Rs 2,400, or 1.5 per cent, to Rs 1,58,500 per 10 grams (inclusive of all taxes) from the previous close of Rs 1,60,900 per 10 grams. Analysts cite global cues Gold and silver fell sharply on Friday amid a broader market sell-off and remained under pressure on Friday, as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of the highly anticipated US consumer inflation data, Saumil Gandhi, Senior Analyst, Commodities at HDFC Securities, said. In the international market, spot silver gained USD 2.01, or 3 per cent, to USD 77.30 per ounce, while gold was trading nearly 1 per cent higher at USD 4,968.40 per ounce. Silver has rebounded to trade near USD 79 per ounce, while gold has also recovered to USD 4,990 per ounce as markets turn their focus to upcoming US Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, Kaynat Chainwala, AVP Commodity Research, Kotak Securities, said. She added that softer inflation readings could revive expectations of policy easing and provide much-needed stability to bullion prices, while persistent inflation and a resilient labour market could keep the Federal Reserve on a higher-for-longer trajectory, keeping prices under pressure. Also Watch: Gold & Silver Surge 1-2% On Value Buying At Key Support Levels After Sharp Correction Meanwhile, easing geopolitical tensions, particularly around Russia-Ukraine and renewed US-Iran nuclear discussions, have dampened safe-haven demand. On Thursday, silver faced additional pressure from weak US existing home sales and concerns over softer Chinese industrial demand ahead of the Lunar New Year shutdown, Chainwala said. ( Disclaimer: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
PM Modi Inaugurates New PMO, Secretariat Buildings, Calls Them Milestone Toward Viksit Bharat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the new Prime Ministers Office, Seva Teerth, along with Kartavya Bhawan 1 and 2, describing the buildings as a significant step in Indias march toward becoming a developed nation. VIDEO | Delhi: PM Narendra Modi ( @narendramodi ) says, You all will play key role as India has boarded 'Reform Express', is re-writing international ties with new trade deals. (Source: Third Party) (Full video available on https://t.co/n147TvrpG7 ) pic.twitter.com/kLc73w5dXI Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 13, 2026 Addressing an event attended by Union ministers and senior officials, Modi said the new structures reflect the governments focus on citizen-centric governance and national advancement. He added that the facilities were designed to fulfil the aspirations of the countrys 1.4 billion people and will serve as the foundation for decisions shaping Indias future. Drawing a contrast with historic administrative complexes such as South Block and North Block, the Prime Minister noted that those buildings were created to symbolise the British Empire, whereas the new complexes represent the will and ambitions of independent India. New PMO Complex To Be Called Seva Teerth: Reports He emphasised the need to move beyond colonial-era mindsets as the country progresses toward the vision of Viksit Bharat. According to Modi, shedding the remnants of a mentality of slavery is essential for Indias development journey. Calling the inauguration a new beginning, the Prime Minister said February 13 would be remembered as a landmark in Indias growth story. Referring to the spiritual significance of Vijaya Ekadashi, he expressed confidence that the nations resolve to build a developed India would succeed. Modi also recalled the renaming of Race Course Road to Lok Kalyan Marg, describing it as an effort to transform the culture of power into one rooted in public service and to reinforce Indias independent identity. On the occasion, the Prime Minister released a commemorative postage stamp and a coin featuring the Seva Teerth building.
New Delhi, Feb 13: Ola Electric on Friday said its consolidated revenue from operations stood at Rs 470 crore, with total deliveries of 32,680 units in the third quarter ended December 31, 2025. The Bengaluru-based firm said the quarter marks a structural reset for the company, as it realigned its retail footprint, cost structure and operating model to a sustainable steady state amid slower EV penetration growth and the need to strengthen service execution. The company delivered a record consolidated gross margin of 34.3 per cent, expanding 15.7 percentage points year on year and 3.4 percentage points quarter on quarter, reflecting the structural advantages of its vertically integrated model, Gen 3 platform economics and disciplined execution, it added. Structural reset Q3 FY26 marks a structural reset for Ola Electric. We chose to fix the fundamentals by restoring service execution, resetting our cost structure and deepening vertical integration. The result is a leaner operating model with materially lower breakeven and industry-leading gross margins, a company spokesperson stated. With service metrics stabilising and the manufacturing facility transitioning into commercial scale deployment, the company is positioned to enter the next phase of growth with significantly improved operating leverage, the spokesperson added. The company said it has undertaken a comprehensive transformation of its operations through store and service network optimisation and AI-led automation. Over the next couple of quarters, these measures are expected to bring quarterly consolidated opex down to Rs 250-300 crore in the next couple of quarters, lowering the company's EBITDA breakeven to about 15,000 units per month, it added. As demand recovers, this operating model is expected to enable up to 3-4x volume scaling with minimal incremental opex, resulting in strong operating leverage and a clearer path to sustainable profitability, the company stated. Manufacturing and expansion During the quarter, the company doubled cell production quarter on quarter to 72,418 cells, achieved the first commercial deployment of in-house 4680 Bharat Cells into customer vehicles, and launched Ola Shakti, its first residential Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) product. The Gigafactory (company's production facility) is currently operating at around 2.5 GWh of installed capacity, with planned scale-up to 6 GWh by March 2026, it stated. Also Watch: Ola Electric To Lay Off About 5% Of Workforce Amid Structural Transformation As global battery demand expands across EV adoption as well as solar-plus-storage, grid-scale deployments and data centre energy requirements, the Gigafactory provides a strategic lever to deepen vertical integration, improve unit economics and participate meaningfully in the growing energy storage market, it added. ( Disclaimer: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
Seva Teerth, Kartavya Bhawan Are Important Milestone In Indias Journey Towards Viksit Bharat: PM
NEW DELHI, Feb 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the new buildings housing the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) and central secretariat mark are an important milestone in Indias journey towards Viksit Bharat (developed India) and they reflect the governments commitment to citizen-centric governance and national progress. Inaugurating the new PMO, named Seva Teerth, and two buildings of the central secretariat, called Kartavya Bhawan 1 and 2, Modi also said that the towers have been built to fulfil the [] The post Seva Teerth, Kartavya Bhawan Are Important Milestone In Indias Journey Towards Viksit Bharat: PM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Sharma, Sohaib Fifties Rescue UAE Victory Chase Against Canada
Half-centuries power UAE to tense T20 World Cup win in New Delhi
AIIMS Delhi First In Country To Announce Launch Of Face Transplant Programme
New Delhi, Feb 13: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi has become the first in the country to announce the introduction of face transplantation, a highly advanced and complex reconstructive procedure. The Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Burns Surgery at AIIMS has initiated the process of setting up a registry of patients having severe facial deformity along with the loss of vital functions of the face like breathing, mouth opening and blinking and have not benefited [] The post AIIMS Delhi First In Country To Announce Launch Of Face Transplant Programme appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
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Govt Approves Export Of 25 Lakh Tonnes Of Wheat And Additional Sugar Quotas To Stabilise Markets
New Delhi, Feb 13: The government on Friday allowed export of 25 lakh tonnes of wheat, along with an additional 5 lakh tonnes of wheat products and sugar each, to stabilise domestic markets and ensure remunerative returns to farmers amid a comfortable stock position. The decision was taken after a comprehensive assessment of the current availability and price scenario, reaffirming the government's commitment to protecting farmers' interests, the Food Ministry said in a statement. Comfortable stock position Wheat stock availability with private entities during 2025-26 stands at approximately 75 lakh tonnes, which is nearly 32 lakh tonnes higher compared to the corresponding period last year, indicating a comfortable supply position in the country, it added. As of April 1, 2026, the total wheat availability in the central pool with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) is projected at around 182 lakh tonnes, ensuring that export permissions will not impact domestic food security requirements, the ministry said. Wheat acreage in Rabi 2026 has also increased to about 334.17 lakh hectares compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year, reflecting strong farmer confidence in wheat cultivation supported by assured MSP and procurement mechanisms, and signalling the likelihood of another robust harvest. In view of higher stock availability, softening prices, expected higher production, and the need to prevent distress sales during peak arrivals, the government's decision will help stabilise domestic prices, improve market liquidity, ensure efficient stock rotation, and strengthen farmers' income while safeguarding national food security, the ministry said. Sugar export decision To facilitate sugar exports, the government has decided to allow export of an additional 5 lakh tonnes of sugar by willing sugar mills during the current sugar season 2025-26. Earlier, the government had permitted the export of 15 lakh tonnes of sugar during the current sugar season vide order dated November 14, 2025. According to information furnished by sugar mills, only about 1.97 lakh tonnes of sugar have been exported up to January 31, 2026. In addition, approximately 2.72 lakh tonnes of sugar have been contracted for export by sugar mills as of date. The additional export quantity of 5 lakh tonnes will be made available to willing sugar mills, subject to the condition that at least 70 per cent of their allocated quantity is exported by June 30, 2026. Also Watch: India-US Trade Deal To Push Bilateral Surplus Beyond $90 Billion Annually, Exports May Surge $100 Billion: SBI Report The export quota will be allocated on a pro-rata basis among willing sugar mills, and mills will submit their willingness within 15 days from the date of issuance of the order. The export quota so allocated will not be swapped or exchanged with any other sugar mill, the ministry said, adding this decision is expected to facilitate higher sugar exports and help in managing surplus sugar availability in the country. ( Disclaimer: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
Aryansh, Siddique star as UAE edge Canada in T20 World Cup thriller
New Delhi: Junaid Siddiques five-wicket haul was complemented by Aryansh Sharmas half-century as the United Arab Emirates defeated Canada by five wickets in their ICC Mens T20 World Cup match here on Friday, February 13. Senior pacer Siddique headlined a disciplined bowling effort, returning with figures of 5/35 to help UAE restrict Canada to a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
'Godman', Poison Laddoo, 'Djinn' Ritual: How Delhi Triple Murder Was Executed
From poison-laced laddoos to claims involving Djinns (supernatural beings), each new revelation has added another disturbing layer to the triple murder case in Delhi's Peeragarhi.
T20 WC: Fifties By Aryansh, Sohaib Power UAE To Thrilling Five-wicket Win Over Canada
T20 World Cup: Aryansh Sharma struck an unbeaten 74 off 53 balls while Sohaib Khan smashed 51 off 29 as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) chased down 151 to beat Canada by five wickets in their Group D clash of the ICC Mens T20 World Cup at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Friday. UAE slipped to 66/4 in the chase of 151, but Sharma held firm at one end even as Canadas spinners tightened their grip through the middle overs. With the required rate climbing, Sohaibs arrival changed the momentum. He launched four sixes and four boundaries in a blistering counterattack, while adding 84 runs with Aryansh off just 42 balls. Sharma anchored the chase with measured strokeplay, finishing unbeaten from 53 deliveries, hitting six fours and three sixes. But Sohaibs aggression rattled Canadas bowlers in the closing overs and turned the game around for the UAE. Veteran all-rounder Saad Bin Zafar was the standout for Canada with figures of 3-14, but his efforts were not enough to prevent the UAEs late surge. The victory underlined the UAEs batting depth beyond their senior pros skipper Muhammad Waseem and Alishan Sharafu, as Aryansh and Sohaib stepped up to secure the win with two balls to spare. UAEs chase began on a false note as Waseem was cramped for room on a pull and top-edged to midwicket off Kaleem Sana. Sharma, however, looked fluent -- unfurling a back-foot punch through the covers off Dilon Heyliger and then launching Jaskaran Singh for a six over cow corner, before following it up with two more boundaries in the fifth over. Alishan Sharafu struggled to find timing at the other end and miscued a lofted drive to extra cover off Zafar. Mayank Kumar joined Sharma, but Zafar struck again in his next over, as he holed out to long-on. Harshit Kaushik briefly lifted hopes with an edged boundary off Bajwa, but he too perished to Zafars guile, picking out midwicket. At 66/4 in 12.3 overs, Canada had seized control. But the chase turned on its head when Sohaib Khan arrived. He announced himself with a six over long-on off Ansh Patel and then combined forces with Sharma for launching a superb counter-attack. Aryansh brought up his fifty with a towering hit over long-on off Patel, while Sohaib cleared the ropes twice in Heyligers 16th over, including a straight strike into the sight screen, apart from a lofted four going over mid-off. Suddenly, the required rate was back within reach for the UAE. The 18th over saw Sohaib hammer Jaskaran for a four through the vacant extra-cover region and a six over the long-on fence. By that time, Canada looked rattled, their bowlers missing yorkers and offering width. When Sana returned, the UAE needed 26 off 12 balls. Sharma leaned and pulled twice to get three fours, while Sohaib capitalised on a beamer with a free-hit four, before getting his fifty with a brace through long-on region. The pairs audacious strokeplay left UAE within touching distance, with the crowd sensing a finish that had seemed improbable just a few overs earlier. Though Sohaib mistimed a loft to mid-on, after Aryansh pulled Jaskaran for six and did a fist-punch to signal they were closer to crossing the finishing line, Muhammad Arfan got the required single to get a memorable win for UAE over Canada. The 18th over saw Sohaib hammer Jaskaran for a four through the vacant extra-cover region and a six over the long-on fence. By that time, Canada looked rattled, their bowlers missing yorkers and offering width. When Sana returned, the UAE needed 26 off 12 balls. Sharma leaned and pulled twice to get three fours, while Sohaib capitalised on a beamer with a free-hit four, before getting his fifty with a brace through long-on region. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Canada 150/7 in 20 overs (Harsh Thaker 50, Navneet Dhaliwal 34; Junaid Siddique 5-35, Muhammad Jawadullah 1-16) lost to UAE 151/5 in 19.4 overs (Aryansh Sharma 74 not out, Sohaib Khan 51; Saad Bin Zafar 3-14, Kaleem Sana 1-29) by five wickets Article Source: IANS
Delhi CM inaugurates 51 Ayushmaan Arogya Mandirs in South Delhi; 370 Mandirs now functional
Long Covid, Alzheimer may share disease mechanisms, study suggests
New Delhi: A new study has suggested that long Covid, which refers to SARS-CoV-2 symptoms that persist despite having healed from the initial infection, and Alzheimers disease may share processes by which one is affected. Researchers, led by those from the US New York University, found that people reporting long Covid symptoms had a 10 Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Teachers meme: SC allows Indore student to appear in Class 10 exam
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday, February 13, allowed a minor boy, rusticated from a school in Indore for allegedly circulating an objectionable meme concerning teachers, to appear in the Class 10 examination and directed the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) to issue an admit card. A bench of Justices B Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Kharge seeks restoration of expunged portions of speech, Chairman says no
New Delhi: Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday, February 13, raised the issue of large portions of his speech during the debate on the motion of thanks to the Presidents address being expunged and demanded that they be restored. Raising the issue soon after the Zero Hour, Kharge urged the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
New Delhi: Junaid Siddique's five-wicket haul was complemented by Aryansh Sharma's half-century as the United Arab Emirates defeated Canada by five wickets in their ICC Men's T20 World Cup match here on Friday. Senior pacer Siddique headlined a disciplined bowling effort, returning with figures of 5/35 to help UAE restrict Canada to a below-par 150 for 7. Aryansh then struck an unbeaten 74 off 53 balls laced with six fours and three sixes, while Sohaib Khan also played a very useful knock of 51 off just 29 balls to guide UAE over the line with two balls to spare. Chasing the modest total, UAE struggled to build momentum and lost wickets at regular intervals even as Aryansh held firm at one end. Left-arm spinner Saad Bin Zafar (3/14) dented the chase with three key strikes. ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026: India Brace For Spin Test Against Pakistan After Gerhard Erasmus Exposes Batting Woes UAE skipper Muhammad Waseem was the first to depart, falling to pacer Kaleem Sana. Zafar then dismantled the middle order, first dismissing Alishan Sharafu, who mistimed a cover drive to Nicholas Kirton at extra cover, before removing Mayank Kumar and Harshit Kaushik with catches at long-on and midwicket respectively. At the halfway mark, UAE needed 92 off 60 balls. But just when the chase appeared to be slipping away, Aryansh found support in Sohaib, who smashed four sixes and as many fours. The pair stitched together a crucial 83-run stand for the fifth wicket, bringing the equation down to 26 off 12 balls. Aryansh showed nerves of steel, smashing back-to-back boundaries before adding a third off a free hit in the penultimate over. Needing 8 off the last over, he hit a a towering six to ease off the pressure. While Canada added to the drama by taking a wicket, it was a little too late with new man Muhammad Arfan finding the rope for a memorable win. Dream Sports MSSA Inter-School Football Tournament: Ascend International Win U-10 Division 2 Title, Smt RSB AVM Take Third Place Earlier, opting to bat, Canada were jolted early as Siddique and Muhammad Jawadullah ripped through the top order inside the first four overs. Siddique set the tone with a superb opening spell, claiming two wickets upfront before adding three more at the death. He began by pitching one up around off to lure skipper Dilprit Bajwa into an aerial stroke, only for the opener to mistime it and offer a simple catch. Siddique then shifted to a probing fifth-stump line, angling the ball away as Yuvraj Samra attempted a pull, gifting a regulation catch at mid-on. Jawadullah joined the party, striking with his first delivery to remove the dangerous Kirton, who edged behind, leaving Canada reeling with their top three back in the dugout inside six overs. Harsh Thaker steadied the innings with a 41-ball-50, briefly reviving Canadas hopes with a four and a six. He forged two vital partnerships a 58-run stand with Navneet Dhaliwal (34) and a 33-run association with Shreyas Movva (21). However, Siddique returned in the 18th over to remove Thaker just as he looked to accelerate. In his next over, he dismissed Movva with a slower bouncer and then accounted for Zafar, halting Canadas late surge. (Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and auto-generated from an agency feed.)
DGCA Imposes Rs 1 Crore Penalty On Air India For Flying Airbus Without Airworthiness Permit
An Airbus A320 flew passengers between New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Hyderabad on November 24 to 25 without the mandatory Airworthiness Review Certificate.
Mumbai, Feb 13: As air pollution continues to choke major Indian metros, new research reveals a worrying truth about how our lungs react to polluted air. A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, focusing on cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, shows that producing more mucus the bodys natural defence may actually reduce protection instead of improving it. This can lead to breathing problems, asthma attacks and other serious respiratory issues. The study, conducted by Swarnaditya Hazra and Professor Jason R. Picardo and published in the Journal of Fluid Mechanics, focuses on the middle airways the branching tubes between the windpipe and the tiny air sacs of the lungs. Uneven mucus distribution Normally, when pollutants or allergens enter the lungs, the airways release mucus to trap harmful particles. However, the IIT Bombay team found that when the amount of mucus increases, it does not spread evenly as expected. Instead, because of surface tension, the mucus gathers into narrow, ring-like humps along the airway walls. These humps are deeper but narrower, leaving large areas of the airway wall exposed. Our work shows that the mucus coating becomes more patchy as its volume increases, Professor Picardo said, adding that the finding is counterintuitive. The researchers had predicted this result using mathematical theory before confirming it through computer simulations. They found that surface tension pulls the mucus into concentrated humps instead of allowing it to form a smooth protective layer. Health implications This has serious health implications. Urban soot particles are extremely small, often thousands of times thinner than a human hair. These tiny particles move randomly in the air and can easily settle on any exposed part of the airway wall. When excess mucus creates patchy areas, it leaves parts of the lungs unprotected, allowing particles to deposit deeper inside and potentially trigger asthma attacks, said Professor Picardo. The study also explains why asthma can worsen quickly. When a person with asthma inhales an allergen, the body responds by producing more mucus. According to the findings, this extra mucus forms humps that expose more of the airway wall, allowing more allergens to settle and further increase the allergic reaction. The researchers also studied how particles of different sizes behave inside the lungs. Large particles tend to crash into the front of the mucus humps and get trapped. Very small particles drift and settle in exposed areas. Particles of medium size, however, can sometimes move past the humps and escape the lungs natural defences. Implications for treatment The findings could also help improve inhaled medicines. Most drug research focuses on the nose or the air sacs, but the middle airways are not well understood. By understanding how mucus humps affect where particles land, scientists may be able to design drug particles that reach specific parts of the lungs more effectively, said Professor Picardo. Also Watch: Mumbai News: Rising Air Pollution Reshapes Office Design As Developers Prioritise Health And Sustainability While more research is needed, the study provides a clear physical explanation for why some asthma attacks become severe so quickly, especially in polluted environments. For millions breathing polluted air every day, the research highlights a troubling reality: more mucus does not always mean better protection and, in some cases, it may make the lungs more vulnerable. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
Watch: PM Narendra Modi inaugurates new PMO complex Seva Teerth in New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the new Prime Ministers Office complex, Seva Teerth, in New Delhi, marking a major administrative shift. The PMO, along with the Cabinet Secretariat and National Security Council Secretariat, will now function under one roof.
Delhi's Sunder Nursery will host the Sufi Heritage Festival 2026 from February 28 to March 1. This two-day event will feature a blend of music, poetry, crafts, and conversations, celebrating the timeless ideals of Sufism. The festival aims to bridge ancient spiritual thought with contemporary artistic expression, offering a space for reflection and connection.
Over 8,600 complaint against sitting judges since 2016: Govt tells Parliament
New Delhi: Over 8,600 complaints against sitting judges have been received by the office of the chief justice of India (CJI) since 2016, the Lok Sabha was informed on Friday, February 13. In a written reply, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said 8,639 complaints have been received against sitting judges between 2016 and 2025. The Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Calling all students with a love for speed, innovation and big ideas. The Duolingo English Test (DET) is kicking off the DETermined to Drive Contest: a chance for you to think like a motorsport engineer, showcase your creativity and win experiences most motorsport fans only dream of. Duolingo English Test (DET) kicks off the DETermined to Drive Contest Whats the challenge? Imagine youre part of a race car engineering team. Whats one modification youd make to any racing car to improve performance, safety or efficiency? Tell us your idea in 100 words or less: what the modification is and why it matters. What Prizes are up for grabs? Grand Prize: A chance to meet VCARB F1 Driver Arvid Lindblad at Red Bull Moto Jam 2026 Tickets to Red Bull Moto Jam 2026 in Delhi NCR on March 1, 2026 Other Amazing Prizes: Duolingo merchandise Red Bull merchandise How to Join the Fun: Here Contest period: 5th February to 25 February 2026 Terms & Conditions apply: VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Open to legal residents of India, age 18+. Approx. aggregate prize value: INR 2,75,550. Limit 1 entry per person. Entry period: 5 February to 25 February 2026, or until all prizes are awarded. Sponsor: Duolingo, Inc. Full rules here: www.go.duolingo.com/RBContestRules . Why Participate? Through the DETermined Drive Contest, DET celebrates future study abroad aspirants who are ready to design, build and compete on a global stage. About Red Bull Moto Jam 2026 Red Bull Moto Jam returns to Delhi NCR for its second edition bringing together top motorsport athletes and high-octane performances. The 2026 edition will feature world-class athletes, including VCARB F1 Driver Arvid Lindblad, who will perform in a racecar, a must-watch for motorsport fans. The event will also feature former Red Bull Racing technician Calum Nicholas, along with other renowned names from the world of motorsport, offering audiences a rare behind-the-scenes perspective into the precision, innovation, and high-performance engineering that define Red Bull Racing. So dont just watch innovation. Think it. Design it. Share it. Your idea could take you straight into the world of high-speed racing. About the Duolingo English Test The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a convenient, fast and affordable English proficiency test designed with the test taker in mind. Trusted by millions of test takers, DET combines advanced assessment science with rigorous security protocols to deliver reliable results in under 48 hours. DET test scores are accepted by over 6000 institutions worldwide, including Columbia, University of Toronto, University of Warwick and Yale, empowering students to certify their English anytime, anywhere.
Delhi ration rules get digital, faster
Delhi's ration card rules are changing. The income limit for families to get ration cards has increased to 1.2 lakh annually. Applications will now be digital only. Stricter checks will ensure only eligible families receive food grains. A faster system for addressing complaints is also being introduced. These changes aim to make the system fairer and more efficient for everyone.
PM Modi speaks to Bangladesh leader Tarique Rahman; congratulates on BNPs poll victory
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman on his partys victory in the neighbouring countrys parliamentary elections and extended Indias continued commitment to the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of both countries. The BNP on Friday is cruising towards a sweeping []
Over 8,600 Complaint Against Sitting Judges Since 2016: Govt Tells Lok Sabha
New Delhi, Feb 13: Over 8,600 complaints against sitting judges have been received by the office of the chief justice of India (CJI) since 2016, the Lok Sabha was informed on Friday. In a written reply, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said 8,639 complaints have been received against sitting judges between 2016 and 2025. The highest number of complaints (1,170) was received in 2024 by the office of the CJI against sitting judges. Complaints received against judges and chief justices [] The post Over 8,600 Complaint Against Sitting Judges Since 2016: Govt Tells Lok Sabha appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The two-day Kala Literature Festival 2026 concluded at the Civil Services Officers Institute (CSOI), New Delhi, on a high note, bringing together senior civil servants, industry leaders, acclaimed authors, poets, artists, and cultural performers in a vibrant celebration of storytelling, ideas, and creative expression. Sanjay Chandra and the other dignitaries with the Jury Members of Kala Literature Awards 2026 Organised by Kala Krazy About Literature And Arts, an initiative by Sanjay Chandra, the festival was co-curated by Neena Chandra, a leader in sustainability and education for the underprivileged; Payal Chandra, an eminent lawyer; and Atri Pandey, a senior finance professional. The festival was supported by a strong network of partners including Lets Talk (co-founded by Pooja Chandra and Vivek Pathak), CSOI New Delhi, CSC WICCI, PR Professionals, The Alcove, Readomania, IP Infra, and Indie Authors Group. Day 1: Literature, Reflection and Cultural Expression The festival opened with Shri Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, IAS, in the presence of noted painter-poets Vishnu Nagar, Ashok Bhowmik, and Hemraj. In his inaugural address, Shri Dwivedi underscored the role of literature and the arts in nurturing empathy, enriching public discourse, and creating reflective spaces within institutions. He noted that engagement with literature allows professionals to connect more deeply with society beyond the demands of their formal roles. Founder Sanjay Chandra spoke about Kalas journey and its growing initiatives, reiterating the platforms commitment to building inclusive, people-centric spaces where literature and art are anchored in conversation and community. Curators Neena Chandra and Atri Pandey reflected on the intersection of literature, sustainability, and inclusion. Literature cultivates empathy, and empathy is the foundation of social responsibility and sustainable change. When we understand stories beyond our own experiences, we begin to build more inclusive systems , they shared. Co-curator Payal Chandra highlighted the deep connection between law and literature. Both are rooted in interpretation, ethics, and the human condition. Law may work through statutes and precedent, but at its core it is about people and their stories. Literature sharpens our sensitivity to nuance, justice, and moral reasoning . Day 1 featured engaging panel discussions, interactive workshops, and book launches, followed by a lively Kavi Sammelan and a captivating Odissi dance performance, bringing together word, rhythm, and movement. Day 2: Ideas, Enterprise and the Power of Story Day 2 was inaugurated by Ashok Lavasa, Retd. IAS, alongside industrialists Sushil Kumar Sayal and HKL Magu. Ashok Lavasa reflected on literatures enduring role in shaping informed societies and sustaining democratic values, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful dialogue in strengthening institutions. Sushil Kumar Sayal spoke about the need for economic progress to evolve alongside cultural depth, while HKL Magu called for deeper collaboration between the business world and the creative community. A key highlight of the day was the launch of two books commissioned by Kala: Light of Spring, an anthology of short stories by emerging writers Echoes of Dharma by Dr. Sarath, a Japan-based Indian author These publications reflected Kalas commitment not only to curating conversations, but also to actively nurturing and publishing meaningful literary work. The day also featured the theatrical storytelling presentation Re Kabiraa by The Kahaani Wala, which drew strong audience engagement. The Showcase: Kala Literature Awards The Kala Literature Awards, presented on merit, formed the emotional and celebratory highlight of the festival. The awards recognised literary excellence across multiple categories and were keenly anticipated by authors and participants. The awards were presented by journalist Gyaneshwar Dayal, food and travel blogger Pawan Soni, sustainability consultant Sanjay Sethi, and CSC WICCI President Sonali Dutta. The evening concluded with the powerful dance drama Tawayafnama by The Performing Arts Tribe, bringing the festival to an evocative artistic crescendo. Literature and Meaningful Conversations A distinctive dimension of this years festival was its collaboration with Lets Talk, a peer-powered wellness platform that brings people together to exchange perspectives, problem-solve, and support one another through dialogue. Reflecting on the collaboration, Pooja Chandra and Vivek Pathak, co-founders of Lets Talk, shared that while literature ignites thought, conversation gives those thoughts momentum. Together, they create spaces where stories deepen understanding, perspectives shift, and shared meaning quietly takes root. A Vision for the Future Concluding the festival, Sanjay Chandra shared Kalas vision of evolving into a sustained cultural platform, one that nurtures emerging voices alongside established ones, and builds a vibrant community rooted in dialogue, creativity, and shared cultural responsibility. As the curtains came down, Kala Literature Festival 2026 reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating literature not merely as performance, but as participation, a living and evolving conversation.
New Delhi, Feb 13 (PTI) Leaders from various opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha have demanded that a discussion on the working of the External Affairs, Rural Development and Commerce Ministries be taken during the ongoing Budget session, sources said on Friday. According to a source, the demand was made at a meeting of the business advisory committee of the Rajya Sabha held on Thursday, as the Upper House takes up discussions on the working of ministries after recess in the Budget Session. Parliament will reconvene on March 9 after the recess. The government has, however, suggested that the working
Alkem Laboratories Q3 net profit rises 1.9 pc at Rs 653.03 cr, to acquire 55 pc stake in Occlutech
NEW DELHI, Feb 13: Alkem Laboratories Ltd on Friday reported a 1.9 per cent rise in consolidated net profit at Rs 653.03 crore in the third quarter ended December 31, 2025 on account of impact of new labour codes. The company, which had posted a consolidated net profit of Rs 640.79 crore in the corresponding quarter last fiscal, said it has signed a binding term sheet to acquire a majority stake in Swiss medical devices firm Occlutech Holding AG at [] The post Alkem Laboratories Q3 net profit rises 1.9 pc at Rs 653.03 cr, to acquire 55 pc stake in Occlutech appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Manipur violence: SC seeks CBI report, advocate claims lapses in probe
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday, February 12, asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is probing 11 FIRs related to the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence cases, to submit a status report within two weeks. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi also mooted the idea that instead of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Reliance secures US licence to import Venezuelan oil, boosting refining margins
NEW DELHI, Feb 13: Billionaire Mukesh Ambanis Reliance Industries Limited has received a US general licence to purchase Venezuelan crude oil directly, enabling Indias largest private refiner to resume imports of discounted heavy feedstock that aligns with its Jamnagar refinery configuration and optimises refining margins. Reliance, which operates the worlds largest single-site refining complex at Gujarats Jamnagar, was among international companies which in late January got a general licence from the US for buying Venezuelan oil directly without violating sanctions, [] The post Reliance secures US licence to import Venezuelan oil, boosting refining margins appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
A traveler's 15-day trip to India, encompassing Delhi, Jaipur, and Udaipur, was an intense experience of equal parts love and hate. While Delhi's chaotic vibrancy and Udaipur's calm offered distinct impressions, the journey highlighted challenges like language barriers and visible inequality, ultimately proving unforgettable and unmatched.
Indias Q1 vegetable oil imports fall 2pc on lower soybean, sunflower purchases
NEW DELHI, Feb 13: Indias vegetable oil imports fell 2 per cent to 3.96 million tonnes in the first quarter of the 2025-26 oil year (November-October) from a year earlier, as lower soybean and sunflower oil purchases offset a rise in palm oil imports, industry data showed on Friday. The worlds biggest vegetable oil importer bought 4.05 million tonnes, including edible and non-edible oils, in the same period a year ago, according to the Solvent Extractors Association of India (SEA). [] The post Indias Q1 vegetable oil imports fall 2pc on lower soybean, sunflower purchases appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
T20 WC: Siddique Picks 5-35 As UAE Keep Canada To 150/7 Despite Thakers Fifty
T20 World Cup: Pacer Junaid Siddique picked an excellent 5-35 as United Arab Emirates (UAE) kept Canada to 150/7 in their Group D clash in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Friday, despite a fighting half-century from batting all-rounder Harsh Thaker. Opting to bat first on a used pitch, Canada lost both openers inside the first four overs and slipped to 39-3 at the end of the powerplay. Thaker hit two fours and three sixes in a 41-ball fifty, while combining with Navneet Dhaliwal in a 58-run stand for the fourth wicket. But Dhaliwals run out for 34 in the 13th over proved to be a turning point, and despite Thaker getting his fifty, Canada struggled to find boundaries as UAEs bowlers tightened their lines, as 23 runs came off the last three overs. Siddique was the standout bowler for UAE, claiming his five-wicket haul with disciplined pace variations and have the best bowling figures for an Associate bowler in this edition of the tournament. Muhammad Jawadullah provided him excellent support with an economical spell of 1-16. Canadas running between the wickets was also sluggish, as they missed out on several twos that could have lifted their par-total. Siddique struck in his very first over by having Canada captain Dilpreet Bajwa mistime a drive to mid-off. In his next over, Siddique had Yuvraj Samra lofting tamely to mid-on. Nicholas Kirton joined Dhaliwal, and though the latter unfurled a stylish drive and punch, Canada slipped further when Kirton edged behind off Jawadullah, leaving the side at 39/3 in the power-play. The middle overs saw a revival, as Dhaliwal and Thaker mixed caution with aggression. Thaker broke free with a towering six over long-on and a cut through point off Haider Ali, before taking a boundary each off Muhammad Farooq and Muhammad Arfan respectively. Dhaliwal showcased his timing with straight drives and inside-out strokes over cover off Farooq, as the pair shared a 58-run stand off 47 balls. Just as Dhaliwal looked set, disaster struck when attempting a quick single in the 13th over; he was run out by a direct hit from short fine leg. Replays showed Dhaliwals bat was stuck on the line, and his desperate lunge with the foot falling short, leaving him dejected. With Dhaliwal gone, Thaker marched forward to complete his half-century off 40 balls. But he fell on the next ball he faced trying to loft off a slower ball from Siddique, but holed out to cover. In the final over, Siddique had Shreyas Movva miscuing to mid-off, while forcing Saad Bin Zafar to pull a short ball straight to deep mid-wicket, giving the pacer his fifth wicket of the match, and he bowed down in sajda as the celebration. Just as Dhaliwal looked set, disaster struck when attempting a quick single in the 13th over; he was run out by a direct hit from short fine leg. Replays showed Dhaliwals bat was stuck on the line, and his desperate lunge with the foot falling short, leaving him dejected. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Canada 150/7 in 20 overs (Harsh Thaker 50, Navneet Dhaliwal 34; Junaid Siddique 5-35, Muhammad Jawadullah 1-16) against UAE Article Source: IANS
BJP Got 82 Pc Of Rs 3,826 Crore Disbursed By Electoral Trusts In 2024-25: ADR
New Delhi, Feb 13: Electoral trusts received Rs 3,826.34 crore in contributions in Financial Year 2024-25 and disbursed Rs 3,826.35 crore to political parties, with the BJP receiving more than 82 per cent of the funds, the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) said on Friday. In its latest report analysing contribution documents submitted to the Election Commission (EC), the NGO said 10 of the 20 registered electoral trusts declared receiving donations during FY25, while five did not have their reports [] The post BJP Got 82 Pc Of Rs 3,826 Crore Disbursed By Electoral Trusts In 2024-25: ADR appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi shifts to new office at Seva Teerth, clears welfare measures for farmers
The move coincided with February 13, marking 95 years since the formal inauguration of New Delhi as Indias modern capital in 1931. PM Modi arrived at the Seva Teerth complex in a motorcade along with Union ministers Manohar Lal and Jitendra Singh and senior PMO officials
New Delhi: Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, on Thursday said that BharatNet is playing a transformative role in turning India into a digitally empowered society by bridging the digital divide and expanding broadband access across rural areas. Replying to a question in the Rajya Sabha, the Minister described BharatNet as one of the worlds largest government-led connectivity programmes and said it reflects the governments commitment to providing internet access to every citizen in the country. He said that over the past eleven years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed unprecedented growth in mobile and broadband connectivity, leading to a historic digital transformation. Over the last eleven years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed an unprecedented expansion in mobile and broadband connectivity, driving a historic digital transformation, Scindia stated. IRCTC Q3 Profit Jumps 15.5% To 395 Crore, Revenue Rises 18% To 1,449 Cr; Board Declares 3.50 Dividend Highlighting the progress under BharatNet, the Minister said the project connects gram panchayats through Optical Fibre Cable (OFC). Out of 2.56 lakh gram panchayats in the country, nearly 2.14 lakh have been made online under BharatNet Phases I and II, implemented at an approximate cost of Rs 42,000 crore. In Tamil Nadu, the project is being implemented through the states special purpose vehicle, Tanfinet. Out of 12,525 gram panchayats in the state, 10,869 have been connected so far. The remaining gram panchayats and 4,767 non-gram panchayat villages will be covered under the amended BharatNet Programme, a $16.9 billion initiative described as the largest government-led connectivity programme globally. Cooperation from States in implementing Right of Way regulations and portals will significantly accelerate broadband expansion and ensure timely benefits to citizens, Scindia emphasised. Quad Nations Launch $6 Million AI Initiative To Modernise Agriculture Across US, India, Japan, Australia Scindia also spoke about the National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0, launched on April 1, 2025, which has set key targets to be achieved by 2030. He said that OFC connectivity with 95 per cent uptime has already been achieved in 42,000 villages as of December 2025, with a target of covering 2.7 lakh villages by 2030. The Minister noted that the average time taken for disposal of Right of Way (RoW) applications has been reduced significantly from 455 days to 30.4 days, achieving the 2030 target ahead of schedule. (Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and auto-generated from an agency feed.)
PM Modi congratulates Tarique Rahman on BNPs win in Bangladesh
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, February 13, spoke to Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman on his partys victory in the neighbouring countrys parliamentary elections and extended Indias continued commitment to the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of both countries. The BNP on Friday is cruising towards a sweeping Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
