The Times of India

India is deeply concerned at the recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region. We urge all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritise the safety of civilians. Dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues, the statement read. Israel and US on Saturday launched a daylight attack on Iran, closing the window for a diplomatic solution to Tehran's long-running nuclear dispute with the West.

A fatal Learjet 45XR crash in Baramati, killing five, has been attributed by the AAIB to low visibility and a lack of meteorological facilities at the uncontrolled airfield. The aircraft experienced a go-around before crashing during its second landing attempt. The preliminary report highlights operational gaps and recommends enhanced safety measures for uncontrolled airfields.

Rahul Gandhi questioned PM Modi's swift Indo-US trade deal, alleging it harms Indian farmers and industries. He claimed the Prime Minister gave away data and guaranteed annual purchases of US products. Gandhi also alleged a lack of political response to Chinese border movements, citing an unpublished book by a former Army Chief.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has sharply criticised Prime Minister Modi's recent Israel visit, calling it morally cowardly following a joint US-Israel strike on Iran. Ramesh highlighted Modi's declaration of India's support for Israel, which occurred just before the military action. The article also details the elevated strategic partnership and agreements signed between India and Israel during Modi's trip.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the nationwide HPV Vaccination Programme in Ajmer, Rajasthan, targeting 14-year-old girls to prevent cervical cancer. The free, voluntary vaccination initiative aims to cover 1.15 crore girls annually, bolstering women's health and preventive healthcare efforts across India.

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has sharply criticized US President Donald Trump's praise for Pakistan's leadership amidst the Afghanistan conflict, calling it a diplomatic setback for India. Ramesh also highlighted concerns over India's trade and strategic diplomacy with the US, citing a one-sided trade deal and the US imposing duties on Indian solar modules. He argued that India's 'Vishwaguru' image has been exposed.

Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi is reportedly set to contest the upcoming Assam assembly elections from the Jorhat constituency. This move follows the party's finalization of candidates for 40 seats. Gogoi, currently an MP from Jorhat, gained national attention for initiating the no-confidence motion against the Modi government.

The Supreme Court reprimanded the West Bengal government for repeatedly filing vague complaints to delay the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. The court clarified that while the High Court Chief Justice would decide deployment modalities, judicial officers alone would assess voter claims and document validity, urging the state to cooperate for expeditious completion.

The government has temporarily halted rice fortification under free food schemes after a study revealed micronutrient loss during prolonged storage. IIT-Kharagpur's research highlighted that moisture, temperature, and packaging critically impact fortified rice stability, shortening its effective shelf life. This decision aims to ensure nutritional outcomes are met while exploring better delivery methods, assuring beneficiaries no reduction in foodgrain entitlements.

A Delhi court discharged former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, manish sisodia and 21 others in the liquor policy case, criticizing the CBI for using the term 'South Group'. The judge stated the label lacked legal basis, was arbitrary, and could prejudice proceedings, urging the agency to use neutral, evidence-based language.

The Uttarakhand Transformation Dialogues 2026 began in Dehradun on Friday, bringing together government officials, industry leaders and experts to discuss the states development roadmap. Dr R Meenakshi Sundaram outlined policy reforms aimed at supporting enterprise, infrastructure and tourism, while other speakers highlighted sustainable growth, womens empowerment and sector-driven progress as Uttarakhand works towards the 2047 development goal.

The case originated from allegations surrounding the now-withdrawn Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party government. The CBI had alleged that the policy framework was tailored to benefit certain private players through reduced licence fees and predetermined profit margins, resulting in kickbacks and financial losses to the Delhi government.

The Kerala High Court has temporarily suspended a single judge's order that halted the release of 'The Kerala Story 2 Goes Beyond'. This move follows a producer's appeal against the initial stay, which cited concerns about potential communal disharmony. The division bench's decision keeps the film's release on hold for two weeks, with ticket sales being refunded.

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia have been acquitted of all charges. The Rouse Avenue court delivered the verdict in the case investigated by the CBI. Both leaders had faced allegations and served time in jail. Kejriwal stated that truth always wins. This development marks a significant moment for the Aam Aadmi Party.

The Delhi High Court has directed AIIMS to form a medical board to assess Jaideep Sengar, who is seeking to suspend his 10-year sentence in the Unnao custodial death case due to Stage-IV oral cancer. Sengar, brother of convicted rapist Kuldeep Sengar, claims his health has deteriorated.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a historic feat, becoming the first world leader to surpass 100 million followers on Instagram. This significant digital milestone underscores his immense global reach and influence in online political communication. His follower count dwarfs that of other prominent international leaders, highlighting his unparalleled digital footprint.

Industry leaders met to shape digital journalism's future. Discussions focused on making Indian users pay for news. Experts highlighted that subscriptions require more than just content. They emphasized user experience, ease of access, and personalized value. Building trust and offering unique benefits are key to achieving sustainable growth in the digital news landscape.

The Enforcement Directorate has filed a prosecution sanction order against former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis money laundering case. This move follows a Supreme Court ruling and aims to expedite the pending trial. The ED alleges Chidambaram granted FIPB approval for the deal in lieu of quid pro quo, with alleged illegal gratification received by his son.

PM Modi's meeting with the star cast comes as various stakeholders in the Indian and Israeli entertainment industries have been seeking collaborative projects and possibilities of utilising each other's strengths in various aspects of the creative space. Last year, amid government efforts to make India a global film production hub, an Indian film festival kicked off in Israel with the screening of filmmaker Kiran Rao's acclaimed feature Laapataa Ladies.

Rahul Gandhi shared a light-hearted anecdote about resolving a sibling dispute with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, attributing Wayanad's magic to their reconciliation. He recounted how a planned trip to the constituency, which he previously represented, led to Priyanka speaking to him again after a period of silence, highlighting the special connection he feels with the region.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assured action against those responsible for a controversial Class 8 NCERT textbook chapter on judicial corruption. The Supreme Court had ordered a ban and seizure of the book, deeming its content objectionable and a potential conspiracy to defame the judiciary. NCERT has apologized and is rewriting the chapter.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a nationwide HPV vaccination drive for 14-year-old girls from Ajmer on Saturday, aiming to prevent cervical cancer. The initiative, offering a single dose of Gardasil-4, will be voluntary and require parental consent. States and Union Territories will join virtually for this crucial public health campaign.

The Kerala High Court has issued an interim stay on the release of 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond', scheduled for February 27. The court observed a prima facie non-application of mind by the censor board in granting certification. This decision follows petitions challenging the film's certificate, citing concerns about its portrayal of religious harmony in Kerala.