The Times of India

Donald Trump is under fresh scrutiny after remarks made during a White House celebration for Team USA's 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympians went viral. While honouring America's record-breaking medal haul, the President's comments about welcoming sports teams to the White House sparked political debate and revived past controversies involving Olympians like Hunter Hess. Here's what happened and why the remarks are making headlines.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay's wife, Sangeetha, has withdrawn her divorce petition before the Chengalpattu Family Court. Appearing through video conferencing, she informed the court that she no longer wished to pursue the case. The court allowed the withdrawal, closed the proceedings, and granted her liberty to file a fresh petition in the future if required. The petition, filed in February, had contained allegations of adultery, mental cruelty, and marital breakdown against Vijay.

A Chennai court issued a non-bailable warrant for former minister K Ponmudi. He failed to appear in a criminal case concerning alleged hate speech. The case involves remarks made about women and religious groups in April 2025. His petition for medical exemption was dismissed due to lack of records. The trial was directed to proceed within six months by the high court.

The TVK government aims for 131 LMT food grain production by 2026-27. New farm ponds and borewells will expand irrigation coverage significantly. Micro-irrigation systems will further enhance water use efficiency for crops. The government also plans to boost yields of fruits and vegetables. Farmers will receive uninterrupted free power supply for agricultural needs.

President of the DMK, M K Stalin, voiced his discontent regarding the agricultural budget released by the Tamil Nadu government. He contended that the budget disregards the ongoing drought challenges and lacks support for delta farmers. According to Stalin, the focus is misplaced, concentrating on renaming previous initiatives rather than addressing farmers' genuine concerns. He emphasized that DMK MLAs will continue to champion farmers' rights throughout the assembly proceedings.

Tamil Nadu ministers' personal faith expressions during budget presentations drew attention this week. Finance minister Marie Wilson carried a rosary into the Assembly before presenting the revised Budget. Agriculture minister R Vinoth offered prayers at Tirumala temple before tabling his budget. Vinoth faced criticism for carrying a budget document outside the state. The events sparked discussions on secularism and government document confidentiality.

The state finance minister outlined a USD 1.5 trillion economy goal by 2031. Significant allocations were made for school modernization and digital learning initiatives. The government also proposed new residential schools and a law college. Measures to address state finances and welfare schemes were also detailed.