The Times of India

India and Malaysia are set to bolster security cooperation, including counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in Kuala Lumpur. He emphasized India's unwavering stance against terrorism, stating there will be o double standards and no compromise.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to expedite sanctioned railway projects in the state. Stalin highlighted delays in fund releases by the Ministry of Railways, impacting land acquisition and causing uncertainty for landowners. He requested full and priority funding for ongoing projects and the revival of those in abeyance.

The US has accused China of a covert nuclear test on June 22, 2020, shortly after the deadly Galwan Valley clash. This allegation, coupled with the expiry of the New START treaty, highlights the urgent need for a new global arms control framework.

Congress criticized the India-US trade deal framework as a surrender, citing concerns over unspecified additional products for tariff reductions. Leaders argued the deal is heavily tilted towards the US and will negatively impact farmers, highlighting a lack of transparency in the agreement's details.

India and the United States have reached an interim trade agreement. This deal is expected to boost India's economic growth and manufacturing sector. Government leaders stated that the agreement safeguards the nation's core interests. It aims to create more jobs and opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and businesses across the country.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted recent trade agreements with the US and other nations as proof of growing global trust in India. He emphasized the country's shift from a mere market to an investment and trade hub, fostering 'Make in India' and creating jobs. These deals, he stated, reflect a dynamic partnership and commitment to innovation and shared prosperity.

Sonia Gandhi Saturday termed a criminal revision petition against a magisterial order as politically motivated and frivolous. The petition alleges her name was included in electoral rolls in 1980 using forged documents, despite her acquiring Indian citizenship later. Gandhi argued citizenship and electoral roll issues fall outside criminal court jurisdiction.

Prime Minister Modi lauded Tamil culture at a Kuala Lumpur event, highlighting its global reach and the significant presence of Tamilians in India's leadership. He announced UPI's upcoming availability in Malaysia and the opening of India's first consulate there, strengthening bilateral ties and community outreach. Modi also pledged a new Thiruvalluvar Centre to honor shared heritage.

Government spending on major schemes lags significantly, with only 41.2% of the budgeted amount disbursed in the first nine months. Revised estimates for 47 out of 53 large projects are lower than initially planned. Several key initiatives, including the Jal Jeevan Mission, show drastically reduced spending, raising concerns about project execution and fund utilization.

India's Defence Acquisition Council is set to consider a major proposal to purchase 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for approximately Rs 3.25 lakh crore. This significant procurement, with a substantial portion to be manufactured in India, aims to bolster the Indian Air Force's fighter squadron strength amidst rising regional security concerns.

Jammu & Kashmir welcomed over 1.7 crore tourists in 2025, including more than 36,000 international visitors. While no specific targets are set for 2026, the government is actively working to boost tourist numbers through various initiatives. The Home Stay program has proven successful and is slated for expansion, despite facing challenges like awareness and infrastructure gaps.

Union home minister Amit Shah reviewed Jammu and Kashmir's development projects. He also stressed hydropower potential and welfare scheme saturation. Aggressive tourism marketing and sports infrastructure development were highlighted. The region will receive 50-year interest-free loans for capital projects. The government aims for a developed Jammu and Kashmir by 2047.

A three-storey building collapsed in Rajasthan's Kota on Saturday. The incident occurred in the Talwandi area where a restaurant was located. Several people are feared trapped under the debris. Police and rescue teams are on the scene. Five individuals have been rescued so far and taken to the hospital for treatment.

Haryana's BJP government faces sharp criticism for allegedly withholding diet allowances for 37,000 players for ten months. Senior AAP leader Anurag Dhanda also highlighted the denial of pensions to over 75,000 elderly citizens, citing absurd income criteria. This has left athletes and seniors struggling, questioning the government's commitment to their welfare.

Tragedy struck the Surajkund Mela in Faridabad Saturday evening when a swing ride collapsed, killing a police inspector and injuring thirteen others. The brave officer lost his life attempting to rescue people as the ride tilted. Authorities have vowed swift action against the operator, with an FIR to be registered.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated the organization wasn't formed in opposition to any group and doesn't seek power or popularity. He highlighted over 1.3 lakh service projects by volunteers nationwide, funded by their own resources. Bhagwat also touched upon the challenging early life of RSS founder K.B. Hedgewar and his involvement in revolutionary activities during India's freedom struggle.

In an ambitious push for development, Delhi's municipal commissioner now wields expanded financial authority, increasing from Rs 5 crore to a hefty Rs 50 crore. This significant change, spearheaded by the Delhi government, aims to cut through bureaucratic red tape, ensuring that essential projects for roads, sanitation, and civic amenities are launched and completed swiftly.

Devotional music concerts are experiencing a surge in popularity, attracting younger audiences with their blend of spiritual chants and contemporary arrangements. These gatherings offer a unique, immersive experience, fostering community and emotional grounding amidst urban life. Prime Minister Modi even highlighted this growing trend, calling it 'bhajan-clubbing,' as traditional practices find new relevance.

A significant protest is under way in Rajasthan over the felling of the khejri tree. Communities are demanding stronger protection for the state tree, alleging that it is being cut to make way for solar power projects. Political leaders across parties have joined the movement, drawing attention to the trees cultural and ecological significance. In an arid landscape where survival is closely tied to ecology, the debate in western Rajasthan now extends beyond development to questions of history, i

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the strong cultural and emotional ties between India and Malaysia during his interaction with the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur. He praised the community for preserving traditions and acknowledged Malaysia's significant Indian-origin population as a living bridge. Modi also emphasised the global importance of the Tamil language and culture.

Opposition leaders are raising concerns over the India-US Interim Trade Agreement. They claim the government has compromised national interests. Worries are focused on the impact on farmers, tariffs, and oil imports. Leaders suggest the deal could lead to unrest as its full implications become clear. The agreement is part of broader trade negotiations.

Sonia Gandhi has opposed a criminal revision petition against her, labelling it politically motivated and an abuse of law. She argued that citizenship and electoral roll matters, dating back four decades, cannot be criminalised. Her response, filed in court, asserts the complainant's accusations are based on speculation, not authentic records, and urges dismissal of the plea.

A US trade representative's map, released alongside an interim trade agreement framework, correctly depicts the entirety of Jammu and Kashmir and Aksai Chin as part of India. This marks a departure from previous US maps and aligns with India's stance, potentially signaling a shift in US policy towards Pakistan and China.

PM Modi, at Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, urged students to find balance between academics and skills, emphasizing life and professional skills are intertwined. He encouraged pursuing gaming as a skill, drawing from Indian stories, but warned against gambling. Collaborative learning and prioritizing Class XII exams were also highlighted, with a call for parents to trust their children's individual growth.

The Election Commission has granted a one-month extension for filing claims and objections on Uttar Pradesh's draft electoral rolls, now allowing submissions until March 6. This marks the third extension for the state's voter list revision, with the final rolls to be published on April 10.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi advised students at 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' that education is for life, not just exams, emphasizing character and temperament over grades. He encouraged focusing on future goals rather than dwelling on past achievements, urging them to live in the present and plan for what lies ahead.

Purnea MP Pappu Yadav was arrested by Patna Police in connection with a 1995 case, expressing fears for his safety and demanding to be taken directly to court. He questioned the police's methods and the timing of the arrest. The MP was later admitted to hospital due to health concerns.

India's exports to China surged 37% to $14.2 billion in April-December, with December shipments jumping 67%. Imports, however, rose 13.5% to nearly $96 billion during the same period. The government highlighted that most Chinese imports are capital and intermediate goods, crucial for India's expanding electronics, pharma, and telecom sectors.

Iran reaffirms its commitment to the Chabahar port and cooperation with India, despite US sanctions uncertainty. While a recent budget showed no allocation, India has fulfilled its $120 million commitment and maintains a $250 million credit line for future development. Iran's ambassador highlighted the port's strategic importance for regional access and expressed confidence in India's management of the situation.

The Supreme Court sternly criticized the Jan Suraaj Party for challenging Bihar's assembly elections, questioning their motive after a significant electoral defeat. Justices noted the party's failure to win any seats and suggested their petition aimed at gaining popularity. The court emphasized that economic policy issues are for voters to address, not judicial annulment of elections.

Top commanders from Pakistan-based terror groups JeM and LeT have issued direct threats against India and global powers during rallies coinciding with 'Kashmir Solidarity Day'. Speeches incited violence, calling for jihad and targeting major Indian cities like Delhi and Agra. Intelligence agencies are on high alert for potential cross-border attacks.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Arvind Kumar, a former resolution professional for Richa Industries Ltd., on charges of collusion, asset siphoning, and money laundering during insolvency proceedings. This marks the first such arrest of an RP by an enforcement agency. The ED's investigation revealed unexplained cash deposits and illicit fund transfers linked to the company's original bank fraud.

The Union government has rejected the Supreme Court's suggestion to introduce a Romeo-Juliet clause for genuine adolescent relationships under the Pocso Act. Citing child safety concerns, the government stated that diluting the age of consent would increase exploitation risks and undermine child protection efforts.

Himachal Pradesh government has approached the Supreme Court. They are challenging a High Court ruling. The ruling prevented the withdrawal of 65 cases against politicians. These cases involve non-serious offenses. The government believes withdrawing these cases serves public interest. The Supreme Court has issued a notice and will hear the matter further.

NEET PG cut-off reduction to zero in 2023 disproportionately benefited private medical colleges, especially for clinical specialties. General category candidates saw the largest gains, with a significant portion of these seats going to them. The analysis highlights admissions with extremely low scores, raising questions about data completeness.

Commuters using partially operational expressways like Delhi-Mumbai will now pay the same toll as normal national highways. This relief, effective for one year or until full operationalization, addresses concerns that higher tolls deterred usage of incomplete stretches. The decision aims to boost traffic on these corridors.