The Economic Times

Paris prosecutors have formed a special team to investigate French nationals potentially linked to Jeffrey Epstein's crimes. This initiative follows the release of US documents and will re-examine the case of Jean-Luc Brunel, a close associate of Epstein. The team aims to uncover evidence for new investigations into suspected offenses involving French citizens.

Sudanese paramilitary forces committed widespread atrocities in Darfur. Over 6,000 people were killed in el-Fasher. The United Nations reported mass killings, sexual violence, and abductions. These acts are considered war crimes and crimes against humanity. The violence mirrors past RSF actions. Accountability for these acts is called for.

The United States and Iran are set to resume nuclear deal talks in Geneva, Switzerland, amid US President Trump's emphasis on reaching an agreement. Previous talks were held in Muscat and Rome, but US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites in June 2025 complicated the situation.

The Justice Department has sent a letter to lawmakers detailing redactions in Jeffrey Epstein's files. The correspondence includes a general description of redactions and a list of notable individuals mentioned, even those with no direct connection to Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell. The letter does not specify the context of these mentions.

Northern California is bracing for a significant winter storm watch with several feet of snow expected in the Sierra Nevada. Meteorologists advise that Saturday through Sunday morning offers the best travel window before heavy snow impacts begin Sunday afternoon, potentially bringing 1-2 feet to populated areas and much more to higher elevations.

Denmark's hockey team showcased remarkable team spirit and heart in their Winter Olympics clash against the United States. Despite skill and experience gaps, the Danes fought hard, taking the lead twice through sheer determination and effort. Captain Jesper Jensen Aabo emphasized that the team's focus remained solely on the hockey game, unaffected by external geopolitical matters.

US forces conducted over 30 strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria this month, maintaining pressure after a deadly attack on troops. This comes as thousands of IS detainees were transferred from Syria to Iraq, following concerns over their fate after territorial shifts.

European officials at the Munich Security Conference are increasingly concerned about Russian President Putin's territorial ambitions and unpredictable U.S. policy under Donald Trump. They are discussing de-risking from the U.S. and building their own hard power, fearing a hasty peace deal in Ukraine could embolden further Russian aggression.

Quote of the Day: Emily Bront's iconic quote from Wuthering Heights resonates on Valentine's Day. It speaks of a love so deep it transcends earthly bounds. The article explores Bront's life and the enduring power of her words. Her novel, initially met with criticism, is now celebrated for its raw intensity.

Five European countries said lab tests show a deadly poison in Alexey Navalnys body after his 2024 prison death. They believe Russia is responsible and plan to report it to a global chemical weapons body. Russia denies the claims. The case has increased global tension and raised fresh questions about political safety, investigations, and the truth behind Navalnys death.

Trust has emerged as a defining quality of leadership in the age of social media and radical transparency. The world needs bold decisions. Your organisation needs decisions because the world is changing, Sergei Guriev, dean of the London Business School, said. However, at the same time, leaders must also be transparent about the risks they are taking, and disclose the logic and evidence behind steps that they take, he added.

Last August, S&P Global upgraded India's sovereign credit rating to 'BBB' from 'BBB-'. That upgrade didn't happen by chance, he said at the ET Now Global Business Summit, noting that India's post-pandemic expansion has been among the most consistent of any major economy.

India is rapidly transforming into a pivotal technology and skilled workforce center for global enterprises. Major players such as Uber and NatWest Group underscore the nation's rising significance.

China is slowly cutting its US debt holdings and buying more gold instead. Its share of US Treasuries has dropped to the lowest level in many years. Experts say China wants less financial dependence on the United States and more safety for its reserves. However, selling too fast could also hurt Chinas economy and affect global markets and the US dollar.

Bill Maher discussed Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce on his show. He commented on modern dating and masculinity. Maher suggested Swift's past relationships featured sensitive men. He contrasted this with her current relationship with Kelce. Maher's remarks drew audience applause. The host also addressed backlash to Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen told the Munich Security Conference that Europe and Britain need to to cooperate more closely on security, on economy.. on defending our democracies. Europe and in particular the UK should come closer together .. 10 years on from Brexit our futures are as bound as ever, she told the Munich Security conference.

At the ET Now Global Business Summit, leaders examined the complex dynamics of today's world, emphasizing the transition to multipolarity. They pointed out the looming dangers to stability and economic success in the absence of cohesive guidelines. Now, more than ever, resilience in defense, energy, and overall competitiveness is crucial.

Placing the state's target alongside India's broader goal of becoming a $5-trillion economy by 2030 and a developed nation by 2047, state industry secretary P Anbalagan said Maharashtra's trajectory broadly mirrors national trends but will require a sharper push.

LeBron James, at 41, returns to the NBA All-Star Game after a one-year absence, extending his records for selections and appearances. Despite missing games this season, he recently achieved a triple-double at an unprecedented age, showcasing his enduring skill and defying Father Time.

Love is blossoming at the Milan Cortina Olympics, with athletes and volunteers finding romance amidst the competitions. From engagements to married couples competing together, the Games are a testament to love's enduring presence, even on Valentine's Day. These stories highlight the unique ways couples navigate their shared passion for sport.

Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious target of India becoming a $5 trillion economy, UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath is aiming for a $1 trillion economy for the state. Under the leadership of the chief minister, there is clear intent and content to grow faster, Deepak Kumar, additional chief secretary, finance, and commissioner-infrastructure, industrial development and agriculture production, said. UP was contributing 8% to the national economy a decade back. This has gone up to

India's women's cricket team starts its T20 World Cup preparation facing Australia in a T20 series. This multi-format tour includes T20 Internationals, ODIs, and a Test. The team aims to build on its ODI World Cup victory. New talent has been introduced. Australia seeks to bounce back. This series is crucial for both sides.

NBA legend Chris Paul has retired from basketball after a remarkable 21-year career. The 12-time All-Star point guard announced his decision on social media. Paul played for multiple teams, earning numerous accolades including Rookie of the Year and two Olympic gold medals. He also served as president of the National Basketball Players Association. His career concludes without an NBA championship.

Japan has helped train approximately 24,000 young Indians over the past seven years through Japanese-style manufacturing programs, Okumura said at the summit, adding her country has supported India's metro systems, high-speed rail, and dedicated freight corridors through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

England secured a crucial five-wicket victory over Scotland in the T20 World Cup, with Tom Banton's unbeaten 63 leading the charge. Meanwhile, Ireland crushed Oman by 96 runs, posting the tournament's highest score, and South Africa's Aiden Markram starred in a seven-wicket win against New Zealand, bringing them close to Super 8 qualification.

The India-Pakistan cricket clash in Colombo is more than a game. Demand drives ticket prices sky-high. Politicians and broadcasters leverage the match for their gain. Players acknowledge the immense hype. Pakistan's spin attack faces India's left-handed batsmen. The focus is on a high-quality contest between bat and ball.

India's economy is growing beyond big cities. New areas in northern and eastern states are becoming economic hubs. This is according to the City Vitality Index for Q1 2026. Established metros still lead, but emerging districts are showing strong growth. This indicates a shift in economic activity across the country.

Fresh firing was reported in Manipur's Ukhrul district by Tangkhul Naga village volunteers, prompting police appeals for restraint. Security forces have been deployed to build confidence and secure the area, with authorities warning against spreading rumors. The internet suspension in affected districts was lifted following signs of improvement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a highway emergency landing facility in Moran, Assam. Indian Air Force combat aircraft, including Rafale and Sukhoi, landed on the highway. This marks the first such facility in the Northeast. The Prime Minister stated this reflects Assam's growing strength and a new India prepared for defense.

The BNP resumes office for the first time since 2006, now under the next generation of the Ziaur Rahman family. For Tareque Rahman, London-based and long in the political wilderness, the weight of history may weigh more heavily than the promise of the future. Even accounting for the glaring defect of the Awami League's exclusion, the outcome is preferable to the dysfunction and mischief of recent months.

Assam is on the brink of a transportation revolution as a groundbreaking infrastructure endeavor gains the green light. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has sanctioned a state-of-the-art 4-lane access-controlled highway spanning from Gohpur to Numaligarh, featuring Indias inaugural underwater tunnel for both road and rail traffic beneath the mighty Brahmaputra River.

A designer's third layoff, which eliminated their entire two-person team, revealed poor handling and a lack of dignity. Despite a manager's prior hints about financial struggles and outsourcing, the abrupt dismissal left colleagues unaware. The experience underscored the importance of documenting rights and prioritizing self-protection in the workplace.

A portrait of Tipu Sultan was removed from the Malegaon Municipal Corporation. Deputy Mayor Shaan E-Hind Nihal Ahmed had placed it in her chamber. The BJP and Shiv Sena opposed the move, calling it against protocol. Ahmed defended the action, stating Tipu Sultan was a freedom fighter. The portrait was removed after threats of protests.

Philocalist is a word used for someone who loves beauty in a deep way. It is not only about looks but also about kindness, nature, art, and good personality. The word comes from Greek language roots. Today, it is important because it reminds people to notice small good things and appreciate both outer and inner beauty in everyday life.

Under India's AI leadership framework, seven thematic working groups - termed Chakras - are being structured around three guiding Sutras: People, Planet and Progress, a senior MEA official said. The Human Capital Chakra will address the rapid transformation of work driven by AI, focusing on equipping people with skills and digital literacy to adapt to evolving employment landscapes.

Haryana is set to become a global manufacturing hub. A new policy offers capital subsidies and employment incentives. This initiative aims to attract large-scale investments in manufacturing and logistics. Haryana's strong economic fundamentals and strategic location support this ambitious plan. The state is ready to boost its industrial edge and competitiveness.

Final electoral rolls for Puducherry and Lakshadweep are out. Puducherry saw a drop in voters after removing ineligible names. Lakshadweep also published its updated list. More final rolls are coming soon for Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and other states. Uttar Pradesh will release its list later.

Devyani Rana, 30, is the daughter of late Devender Rana, a senior political figure who was once a close aide of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah before joining the BJP. Devender Rana won the October 2024 Assembly polls but passed away in 2025. Devyani Rana subsequently won the November 2025 bypoll from Nagrota on a BJP ticket.

India's economic strength positions it to lead globally. Author Marianne Williamson urges India to embrace its democratic potential for worldwide benefit. She highlights that economic prosperity alone does not guarantee stability or democratic values. Modern leadership requires ethical considerations and humility. Solutions to global challenges like climate change and AI ethics are achievable through transformative learning.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticised the BJP government, saying it is shortchanging Indian cotton farmers and textile exporters in the proposed India-US trade deal. He highlighted that Bangladesh could get zero-duty access for garments to the US, while India faces an 18% tariff.

As per Supreme Court directives, a dedicated OBC commission must be constituted before local body elections. The existing panel's tenure ended in October last year and was extended by a year, but the state told the court that an extended body cannot substitute for a freshly constituted commission.

During a recent diplomatic gathering, Poland's Ambassador to India, Piotr Antoni Switalski, championed the swift ratification of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. He underscored that Polish enterprises are eager to channel billions of euros into the Indian market.

Under the scheme, eligible women receive Rs 1,000 per month. Stalin said with elections approaching, there could be hurdles in disbursing funds in the coming months. To avoid disruption, the government released advance payments for February, March and April, along with an additional Rs 2,000 as a summer special allocation.

Global trade is undergoing a re-globalisation, not deglobalisation. Supply chain security and predictability are vital. Free trade agreements and regional cooperation are key. The World Trade Organization needs revival. The Black Sea region offers secure supply zones and connectivity. Non-state actors play an increasing role in trade.

Participating in a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference, the FM said India has increased its commitment to climate action. Six years ago, we were spending approximately 3.7 per cent of our GDP on climate action. Today, that figure is close to 5.6 per cent. We have invested the funds. We are not waiting for financing and technology to come from elsewhere but they must come, she said.

Happy Mahashivratri 2026 Wishes, Images, Messages, Quotes, Greetings, WhatsApp Status: Maha Shivratri, a sacred festival honoring Lord Shiva, symbolizes devotion and the triumph of light over darkness. Devotees observe fasts and offer prayers for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. The occasion is marked by wishes for strength, wisdom, and positivity, with the mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya' guiding towards happiness and success.

Rahman's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Friday secured a sweeping victory with more than two-thirds majority in the landmark parliamentary elections held on Thursday. The BNP leader is set to become the prime minister, replacing the interim government chief Muhammad Yunus.

Chinese New Year is celebrated with family gatherings, fireworks, red decorations symbolising luck and prosperity, and festive meals. Cleaning homes before the new year symbolises clearing away old energy to welcome new blessings.