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Maharashtra CET Cell extends registration for MBA/MMS, MHT courses

According to official notices issued on Friday, the registration deadline for MAH-MBA/MMS CET has been extended to February 25, while for MAH-MHT CET (PCM/PCB), it closes on February 24, with an additional window from February 25 to 27 for late registrations, subject to an extra fee of Rs 500

20 Feb 2026 6:04 pm
Jyotirmath authorities lock building after namaz video sparks tension

Authorities in Jyotirmath, Uttarakhand, locked an under-construction building after a video showed namaz being offered there, sparking tensions. Officials held a community meeting and police are monitoring the situation, while some Hindu groups demanded an investigation

20 Feb 2026 5:27 pm
AI Summit 2026: Youth Congress members stage shirtless protest; 10 detained

The protesters marched into Exhibition Hall No 5, wearing or holding white T-shirts printed with images of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, along with slogans such as IndiaUS Trade Deal, Epstein Files and PM is compromised, creating a commotion

20 Feb 2026 5:16 pm
Communal clash in Jabalpur district; damages shops and vehicles

Tension gripped Sihora town in Madhya Pradeshs Jabalpur district after members of two communities clashed near Azad Chowk. Stone-pelting and vandalism were reported, prompting police to fire eight to ten teargas shells. Authorities said the situation is now under control

20 Feb 2026 4:56 pm
Government announces seven measures to help boost e-commerce exports

These measures are part of the Rs 25,060-crore export promotion mission. Out of 10 components of the mission, three have already been rolled out in January. To support exporters using digital channels, the commerce ministry announced credit facilities with interest subvention

20 Feb 2026 4:48 pm
Omar Abdullah defends Kishtwar DC`s donation order during Ramadan

Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah said the Kishtwar order regulating Ramzan donations was issued after consulting local religious leaders to curb fake NGOs and protect genuine charities. He urged the matter not be politicised, while Congress MLAs Gulam Ahmed Mir and Nizam-ud-Din Bhat demanded its revocation

20 Feb 2026 4:37 pm
Rahul Gandhi appears in UP court in 2018 defamation case

Rahul Gandhi appeared in a Sultanpur court on Friday for a 2018 defamation case over remarks about Amit Shah. The next hearing is on March nine. Senior Congress leaders accompanied him and expressed full support, while the court directed the complainant to produce evidence

20 Feb 2026 3:40 pm
`Not about India; US doesn`t want to see anyone buying Russian oil,` says Gor

US Ambassador Sergio Gor said the US opposes purchases of Russian oil and noted India has diversified its energy sources. He added that the India-US interim trade deal will be signed soon and highlighted growing AI cooperation between the two countries

20 Feb 2026 1:52 pm
India joins US-led Pax Silica alliance to boost AI, critical minerals security

Launched in December, Pax Silica seeks to create a secure, resilient and innovation-driven supply chain ecosystem spanning critical minerals, semiconductors and AI infrastructure. The Pax Silica Summit was held in Washington on December 12, where partner countries signed the declaration

20 Feb 2026 1:26 pm
RG Kar victims father questions CBI probe, alleges cover-up, larger conspiracy

He claimed that the high court made a mistake by handing the case over to the CBI, saying they won`t admit their involvement in the crime. The victim`s family is seeking custodial interrogation of police officers and doctors, including Sudipto Roy, who they believe are involved in the conspiracy

20 Feb 2026 12:51 pm
New Mexico reopens probe into Jeffrey Epsteins Zorro Ranch

New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez has reopened an investigation into alleged illegal activities at Jeffrey Epsteins former Zorro Ranch. The move follows newly released FBI files and comes alongside a truth commission probe into possible sexual abuse and trafficking linked to the property

20 Feb 2026 12:39 pm
CM Devendra Fadnavis emphasises AIs transformative role in agriculture

Addressing the gathering, the Maharashtra CM said the world was at a very defining moment, pointing out that global food systems are under severe stress due to rising climate volatility, depleting water tables, deteriorating soil health, fragile supply chains and unpredictable markets

20 Feb 2026 12:34 pm
Antonio Guterres calls for science-led AI guardrails and global standards

Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Antonio Guterres warned of rising AI fragmentation due to technological rivalry and incompatible standards. The United Nations chief called for global interoperability benchmarks, science-led guardrails, and the creation of a Global Fund on AI to ensure inclusive access, risk-based govt

20 Feb 2026 12:27 pm
Iran holds military drills with Russia as US aircraft carrier nears Middle East

Iran held annual military drills with Russia as the US deployed additional warships and fighter jets to West Asia amid stalled nuclear talks. President Donald Trump warned that failure to reach a meaningful deal could lead to consequences, raising fears of potential military confrontation in the region

20 Feb 2026 9:47 am
Veteran journalist K Govindan Kutty passes away at 81

Veteran journalist and author K Govindan Kutty passed away at the age of 81 after a brief illness. He was widely known for breaking the news of the 1977 air crash involving then Prime Minister Morarji Desai at Jorhat in Assam. Kutty had a distinguished career as a reporter and editor in Thiruvananthapuram and New Delhi

20 Feb 2026 9:44 am
India set to join Pax Silica at Global AI Impact Summit in Delhi

India is set to formally join Pax Silica, a US-led initiative on artificial intelligence and supply chain security, on the sidelines of the Global AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also unveiled the MANAV vision for ethical and inclusive AI governance

20 Feb 2026 9:43 am
Former Prince Andrew arrested over misconduct allegations to Jeffrey Epstein

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the younger brother of King Charles III, was arrested by UK police on suspicion of misconduct in public office following allegations related to his association with Jeffrey Epstein. The arrest reportedly took place at Sandringham Estate, where he had been residing after leaving Royal Lodge on the Windsor Castle estate

20 Feb 2026 9:34 am
Australian researchers unveil worlds first underwater 3D concrete printer

Australian researchers have developed the worlds first underwater 3D concrete printing system using a single-mix formulation that sets underwater without rapid-setting chemicals. The innovation resists washout and maintains structural integrity, potentially transforming marine and coastal construction

20 Feb 2026 9:33 am
Supreme Court says freebies may hamper economic growth of the country

The Supreme Court has criticised the growing freebies culture, observing that blanket subsidy schemes could hamper economic development. Hearing a plea related to free electricity in Tamil Nadu, the bench said states must balance welfare measures with fiscal responsibility

20 Feb 2026 9:30 am
White House warns Tehran to make a deal amid rising tensions

The US could launch military strikes on Iran within days, according to reports, as the White House warned Tehran to make a deal. Washington has deployed significant air and naval forces to West Asia, marking its largest regional build-up since the 2003 Iraq invasion

20 Feb 2026 9:27 am
Delhi: Six-year-old girl dies after e-rickshaw collides with car in Janakpuri

A six-year-old girl died after an e-rickshaw collided with a car and overturned in Janakpuri, Delhi. Police have seized the car and apprehended the accused driver. In a separate incident in Dwarka, 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra was killed in a crash allegedly caused by a juvenile driving without a licence, who was later granted interim bail

20 Feb 2026 9:24 am
Bengaluru woman killed at home, accused neighbour held for stealing jewellery

A 70-year-old woman was found strangled at her residence in Nelamangala on the outskirts of Bengaluru while her wheelchair-bound husband was inside the house. The crime came to light when a doctor arrived for physiotherapy. Police have arrested the accused neighbour, who allegedly murdered the woman and fled with her gold jewellery

20 Feb 2026 9:23 am
Donald Trump praises Nicki Minajs beautiful skin at White House event

Donald Trump hosted a Black History Month reception at the White House, where he highlighted several prominent Black Americans among his supporters. Trump praised boxer Mike Tyson and rapper Nicki Minaj, complimenting Minajs beautiful skin during his remarks. The event comes amid ongoing political controversy involving former president Obama

20 Feb 2026 9:22 am
Risky biker behaviour on roads must be penalised

The road is for getting you to a destination. It is not for inane stunts usually done for thrills.

20 Feb 2026 8:49 am
Is grief too personal to post?

Influencer Malvika Sitlani posted aesthetic, Insta feed-friendly pictures of her mothers grave with the family mourning beside it. We ask: Did she really have to?

20 Feb 2026 8:48 am
Congress alleges deletion of nine AI videos by BJP governments

Congress claims nine of its AI videos were deleted by BJP-led governments, calling it misuse of IT Rules and a suppression of political satire. Social media head Supriya Shrinate said the videos were clearly labeled, highlighted Indias AI issues, and accused PM Modi of prioritizing rhetoric over national interest

19 Feb 2026 6:10 pm
Pune records over 14,500 property registrations in January 2026

In January 2026, Pune registered 14,537 properties and collected Rs 609 crore in stamp duty during the month. While registrations declined 17 per cent year-on-year (YoY) compared to January 2025, stamp duty collections saw a relatively smaller dip of 5 per cent YoY

19 Feb 2026 4:51 pm
Strike on Iran imminent? US ready for military action, says report

The buildup has persisted despite indirect discussions between Washington and Tehran in Geneva on Tuesday. Irans Foreign Minister stated there was agreement on a set of guiding principles, while US officials noted progress but highlighted that significant gaps remain

19 Feb 2026 4:40 pm
Retired ISRO employee allegedly strangles wife to death in Bengaluru

A 65-year-old retired ISRO employee was taken into custody after allegedly strangling his wife to death with a towel at their home in Avalahalli. The incident was reported around 11 am. Police said the accused, reportedly undergoing treatment for depression

19 Feb 2026 3:49 pm
Child-lifting rumours spark mob violence in Jharkhand, 12 incidents in five days

Rumours of child kidnapping have led to multiple mob assaults across Jharkhand, including a fatal attack. Police have urged people not to act on unverified rumours and to report suspicions to authorities

19 Feb 2026 2:50 pm
No major progress in latest US-led Ukraine negotiations as war nears fourth year

The latest US-brokered talks between Russia and Ukraine in Switzerland ended without a breakthrough, with both sides calling the discussions difficult. While some progress was reported on military issues, sharp political differences remain, especially over Russian-occupied territories in eastern Ukraine

19 Feb 2026 2:39 pm
Maharashtra: Nashik gears up for Simhastha Kumbh

Preparations for the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027 have begun, with a Rs 25,000 crore master plan covering roads, airport expansion, sanitation, AI-based crowd management and tent cities. The 21-month festival is expected to attract over 12 crore devotees and generate Rs 30,000 crore in economic activity

19 Feb 2026 2:08 pm
Maharashtra SSC exam 2026 to begin on February 20; 16 lakh students registered

Over 16.15 lakh students have registered for the Maharashtra SSC exam 2026, scheduled from February 20 to March 18. The MSBSHSE will conduct exams at 5,119 centres across nine divisions, with CCTV monitoring, 271 flying squads, helplines, counsellors, and strict anti-cheating measures in place

19 Feb 2026 2:06 pm
Kuwait plans new freelance residency permit for expatriates

The scheme, expected to be introduced within the next two months, will carry an annual fee ranging between KD 750 (Rs 8600) and KD 1000 (Rs 11,500), to be paid directly to the government

19 Feb 2026 2:03 pm
Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan says, `Create six crore Lakhpati Didis`

Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday directed officials to work on a war footing to achieve a revised target of creating six crore Lakhpati Didis under the rural livelihoods mission

19 Feb 2026 2:00 pm
Gisele Pelicot releases memoir sharing powerful message to abuse survivors

Gisele Pelicots memoir A Hymn to Life, Shame has to Change Sides has been released in 22 languages worldwide. In the book, Pelicot recounts her traumatic experience and delivers a powerful message of hope, resilience and solidarity for survivors of sexual abuse

19 Feb 2026 1:57 pm
AI Summit 2026: Reliance and Jio to invest Rs 10 lakh crore in Indias AI future

Mukesh Ambani announced that Reliance and Jio will invest Rs 10 lakh crore over seven years to build sovereign AI infrastructure in India. Speaking at the India AI Summit 2026, he unveiled Jio AI Bharat and outlined plans for gigawatt-scale data centers and green-powered AI systems

19 Feb 2026 1:53 pm
AI Summit 2026: Bill Gates to not deliver keynote at India AI Impact Summit 2026

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates will not deliver the keynote at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, the Gates Foundation said. Ankur Vora will represent the foundation in New Delhi. The clarification comes amid speculation over Gates reported mention in the Epstein files

19 Feb 2026 1:52 pm
Average apartment sizes up 17 per cent in top seven cities in two years

The data shows that the average apartment size in these key urban centres increased from 1,420 square feet (ft) in 2023 to approximately 1,676 sq ft in 2025. The momentum continued over the past year, with an 8 per cent rise from around 1,540 sq ft in 2024

19 Feb 2026 1:42 pm
Light rain in south, coastal Tamil Nadu; fishermen advised caution

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall across parts of southern and coastal Tamil Nadu over the next few days due to a low-pressure area over the equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal. According to the IMD, the system is expected to move west-northwestwards and intensify further

19 Feb 2026 11:35 am
Bee swarm attack kills umpire during cricket match; 15-20 players injured in UP

A 65-year-old umpire, Manik Gupta, died after a swarm of bees attacked players and officials during a cricket match at Sapru Maidan in Unnao. Several players were injured in the sudden attack. Gupta was rushed to hospital but was declared dead on arrival

19 Feb 2026 11:17 am
Four dead after speeding car falls into canal at sharp turn in Mathura

our passengers, including three brothers, died after their car plunged into a six-metre-wide canal near the Nahla Deviya bridge while travelling from Mahmoodpur to Deeg. Police suspect the driver failed to negotiate a sharp turn at high speed. Bodies have been sent for post-mortem

19 Feb 2026 10:57 am
Himachal CM Sukhu slams BJP for opposing resolution on Revenue Deficit Grant

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu criticised BJP MLAs for not supporting a resolution seeking restoration of the Revenue Deficit Grant after the 16th Finance Commission recommended its discontinuation. The resolution was passed amid disruptions in the Assembly

19 Feb 2026 10:54 am
Congress leader Pawan Khera slams Centre over Galgotias robodog row at AI Summit

Congress leader Pawan Khera attacked the Centre over the Galgotias University robodog controversy at the India AI Impact Summit 2026. The university vacated its stall and issued an apology after confusion over the robots origins sparked political criticism and calls for accountability

19 Feb 2026 10:52 am
US State Secretary Marco Rubio likely to visit Israel on Feb 28

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to visit Israel on February 28 to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and discuss progress in the Geneva nuclear talks with Iran. The White House says limited progress has been made, but major differences remain as diplomacy continues

19 Feb 2026 10:49 am
UN Security Council holds high-level meeting on Gaza before Trump`s Board of Pea

The UN Security Council is holding a high-level meeting on the Gaza ceasefire and Israels West Bank expansion plans ahead of President Donald Trumps first Board of Peace gathering in Washington. Global leaders are debating reconstruction

19 Feb 2026 10:46 am
Stampede-like situation in Pune during Shiv Jayanti; several injured

Shiv Jayanti 2026: A stampede-like situation broke out at Shivneri Fort in Pune during Shiv Jayanti celebrations, injuring several devotees. The chaos occurred near narrow entry points as lakhs gathered to pay tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

19 Feb 2026 10:01 am
Second blast during Lunar New Year leaves 12 dead in Xiangyang

A fireworks shop explosion in Xiangyang, Hubei province, killed 12 people during Lunar New Year celebrations. Investigators are probing the cause of the blast. Earlier this week, a similar explosion in Jiangsu province claimed eight lives and injured two

19 Feb 2026 9:03 am
Delhi SUV accident: Accused`s father says, `Ready to face the law`

The father of the 17-year-old accused in the Dwarka SUV crash has apologised to the family of 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra, who was killed on February 3. The teen was allegedly driving the vehicle during a social media video shoot. The father said he will abide by the judiciarys decision

19 Feb 2026 9:01 am
Award-winning pilot dies in Texas plane crash; dog survives

Award-winning pilot Ron Timmermans and his wife Barbara died in a single-engine Beechcraft A36 crash in East Texas after he radioed an engine emergency. The aircraft struck a power line and crashed near homes. Their pet dog survived and was taken in by a neighbour

19 Feb 2026 8:57 am