The Economic Times

Rajasthan Education Minister Madan Dilawar controversially stated that cow's milk makes children intelligent while buffalo milk leads to sluggishness. This remark follows previous controversies, including observing the Babri Masjid demolition day as Shaurya Diwas and commenting on teachers' attire and mobile phone usage in schools.

New labour codes aim to create a modern labour market. A law commission official highlights their potential for inclusivity and future readiness. These codes consolidate existing laws, addressing wages, safety, and social security. They also recognize gig and platform workers. Successful implementation across states is crucial for balancing enterprise flexibility and worker safeguards.

Ind vs SA Playing 11: India faces South Africa in their T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 opener in Ahmedabad after Pakistan vs. New Zealand was washed out. Both teams are on four-match winning streaks, with India defending champions and South Africa banking on familiarity with the venue. India has shown vulnerability against spin, an area the Proteas may exploit.

Austria's State Secretary Alexander Proll calls the EU-India Free Trade Agreement a major deal. This pact will benefit millions and create a large free trade zone. It aims to boost trade, foster collaboration in artificial intelligence, and build stronger supply chains. The agreement is expected to be implemented within a year, strengthening ties between the EU and India.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased a thrilling and spectacular air show and helicopter stuntsover Jal Mahal on Sunday, which included the Air Force's 'Surya Kiran Aerobatic' and 'Sarang Helicopter Display'. Three pilots in the Surya Kiran and Sarang shows were from Jaipur, and nine Surya Kiran jets and six Sarang helicopters will display the tricolour in the sky.

Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has challenged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to step down for a Vokkaliga leader. This exchange follows Siddaramaiah's statement about Vokkaliga CMs only under Congress. The leaders are trading accusations regarding political commitment and community welfare. Kumaraswamy urged Siddaramaiah to demonstrate generosity towards Vokkaligas. The debate highlights internal party dynamics and leadership aspirations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Israel faces a political hurdle. Opposition leader Yair Lapid insists on inviting the Supreme Court President to the Knesset address. This is due to a domestic dispute over judicial reforms. Lapid warns of a boycott if the convention is not followed. This could cause embarrassment for India.

Congress leader Pawan Khera has strongly criticized the recent AI Impact Summit. He called it a national embarrassment. Khera stated the ruling BJP prioritized optics over substance. He pointed out the Prime Minister's address did not mention the Galgotias University controversy. This university faced scrutiny after the summit. Khera accused the BJP of orchestrating praise for the event.

The Indian Air Force will conduct Exercise Vayushakti-26 on February 27, 2026, at Pokhran to showcase its operational prowess, including long-range strikes and multi-domain capabilities. The drill will highlight rapid response, national security contributions, and humanitarian support, featuring a large deployment of aircraft and advanced weaponry to demonstrate the IAF's strength and deterrence.

Iran and the United States are at odds over sanctions relief in ongoing nuclear talks. New discussions are scheduled for early March. Both nations are building military capabilities in the Middle East, increasing concerns about a wider conflict. Iran has threatened retaliation if attacked. The two sides aim for a logical timetable for lifting sanctions, based on mutual interests.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a significant change at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The statue of British architect Edwin Lutyens will be replaced by one of C Rajagopalachari, India's first governor-general. This move signifies a departure from colonial symbols towards honoring Indian leaders. The new statue will be unveiled on February 23 during 'Rajaji Utsav'. An exhibition will also be held.

Rondale Moore, an NFL wide receiver, tragically died at the age of 25 in New Albany, Indiana, with officials confirming a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. A former standout at Purdue University, Moore was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2021 and later played for the Atlanta Falcons and Minnesota Vikings, though injuries limited his playing time.

The US Supreme Court has limited President Trump's power to impose tariffs suddenly. However, trade partners and companies still face uncertainty. Trump has introduced new tariffs and investigations. Experts believe his ability to use tariffs as a foreign policy tool is diminished. Existing trade deals are expected to remain, but countries may gain more bargaining power in future negotiations.

Brazilian aerospace firm Embraer is pitching its KC-390 Millennium for India's military transport aircraft deal, highlighting its versatility and NATO adoption. The company plans to make India a production hub for the Asia-Pacific market and establish a regional MRO facility, aiming for a long-term defense and civilian aerospace partnership.

Wordle tested players with a five-letter term featuring an unusual consonant combination and two vowels. The puzzle required careful observation and strategic guessing, especially because words beginning with certain letters are rare. For many, the puzzle was moderately difficult yet rewarding, providing an opportunity to apply deductive reasoning and refine guessing strategies. As with most Wordle challenges, success relied on patience, careful observation, and systematic elimination rather tha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticized the Congress party. He alleged they turned a global artificial intelligence summit in Delhi into a platform for 'dirty and shameless' politics. Modi stated this conduct showed the party's ideological bankruptcy. He thanked other opposition parties for condemning the incident. The Prime Minister emphasized that such actions defame the nation.

Seat-sharing talks are underway for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The Indian Union Muslim League has requested five seats from the DMK. Meanwhile, the Naam Tamilar Katchi has revealed its complete list of 234 candidates. The AIADMK has also put forth five election promises. The elections are scheduled for this year.

IIM-Nagpur is set to revolutionize student assessments with Artificial Intelligence. AI will drastically cut down grading time from weeks to just a day or two. Professors will still have the final say, ensuring accuracy and depth. This move aims to streamline academic processes and prepare students for a future where AI proficiency is key.

Prime Minister Modi launched development projects worth Rs 12,930 crore in Meerut. He inaugurated the Meerut Metro and Namo Bharat train. The entire 82-km Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor was dedicated to the nation. This marks a significant boost for infrastructure and urban mobility in western Uttar Pradesh. The projects reflect the government's commitment to timely completion.

New research reveals retail technology's true value lies in empowering frontline staff. It enhances customer experience and store profitability. Simply adopting global tech trends often fails. Focusing on employee skills and context-driven technology drives better results. This approach boosts sales and customer loyalty. It shifts the view of HR tech from a strategic benefit to a store display.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut stated his party has the primary claim to the Maha Vikas Aghadi's single Rajya Sabha seat. He emphasized Shiv Sena (UBT) is the largest constituent in the opposition alliance. Raut clarified that discussions will occur within the MVA. The upcoming Rajya Sabha polls are scheduled for March 16.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar wants to contest the Assembly elections from Nemom. He has informed the national leadership of his wish. Chandrasekhar aims to bring changes to Thiruvananthapuram. He believes the people of Nemom are also interested in this change. The BJP's election wall-writing campaign has begun in Nemom. The party seeks to address public issues and ensure development.

Top Maoist strategist Thippiri Tirupati alias Devji, carrying a Rs 1 crore bounty, has surrendered, dealing a significant blow to the organization. His surrender, along with other senior leaders and cadres, comes ahead of the government's March 2026 deadline to eliminate Naxalism. This follows Telangana Police's sustained efforts, which have seen hundreds of Maoists rejoin mainstream society.

The preliminary report on the plane crash that killed NCP leader Ajit Pawar will be released by February 28. The incident occurred on January 28 near Baramati airport. Rohit Pawar has raised concerns about irregularities and foul play. The Civil Aviation Ministry stated the report will be made public.

Cafe Arpan in Mumbai is redefining hospitality by employing neurodivergent adults. Specialised training and visual aids support staff in daily operations. This initiative dismantles stigmas and highlights economic contributions. The cafe aims to foster independence and professional environments for its team. It serves as a model for collaborative private and social sector inclusion.

The IUML has strongly criticized the SFI's beef festival. They called it a cheap political stunt aimed at Muslim voters. The IUML stated beef is not linked to any specific community. They believe the protest is a tactic to mislead voters. The movie 'Kerala Story 2' is set for release soon.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh defended Rahul Gandhi. He stated Gandhi is a responsible parliamentarian. Ramesh refuted Union Minister Kiren Rijiju's claims. Rijiju alleged Gandhi is dangerous for India's security. Ramesh highlighted Gandhi raising national security issues regarding China. He mentioned a government announcement involving US President Donald Trump. This announcement was made to divert attention from Gandhi's questions.

Cricket star Shikhar Dhawan, after retiring from international play, married his longtime girlfriend Sophie Shine on February 21, 2026. The couple, who met in Dubai and made their relationship Instagram official in May 2025, celebrated their union in Delhi-NCR. This marks a new, happier chapter for Dhawan following his divorce.

Jackie Chan, a Hong Kong actor and martial artist, rose to international fame in the 1970s and 80s with his unique blend of high-energy action, daring stunts, and physical comedy. His films like 'Police Story' and 'Rush Hour' bridged Hong Kong and Hollywood, making him a globally recognized action star.

SL vs ENG Playing 11 T20 World Cup 2026: Sri Lanka and England will face off in the second Super 8 match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The fixture is scheduled for February 22 at Pallekele. Both teams enter this stage after one defeat in the league round. This encounter marks the opening Super 8 game for both Sri Lanka and England.

Karnataka government is exploring a ban on social media and mobile phones for children under 16. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah sought opinions from vice chancellors on the proposal. Concerns exist about the negative impact on children's learning, behavior, and mental health. Previous recommendations for mobile bans in educational institutions have also been made.

Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force seized over 28 kilograms of cocaine hidden within a luxury bus on a ship at the Port of Adelaide. The discovery was made during an intelligence-led search of a oll on roll off vessel. This significant bust, with an estimated street value of $9 million, highlights ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal syndicates.

Security forces have killed one terrorist during an ongoing operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district. The encounter began Sunday morning in the Chatroo belt after intelligence indicated the presence of two Pakistani terrorists. They opened fire on approaching troops from a mudhouse. The operation is continuing. This follows several gunfights in the region last month.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has strongly criticized Janata Dal (Secular) leaders H.D. Kumaraswamy and H.D. Deve Gowda. He accused them of promoting family interests over the Vokkaliga community's political advancement. Siddaramaiah highlighted the Congress party's historical role in nurturing Vokkaliga leadership. He asserted the Congress remains the party for merit-based leadership opportunities for all communities.

Jamia Millia Islamia has opened admissions for the 2026-27 academic session, introducing 30 new programs across various disciplines. Fees remain unchanged for all courses, and admissions will now align with NEP 2020's Multiple Entry Mode for FYUP. The university has also expanded its test centers and revised international student fees.

Congress has criticized the interim US trade deal. The party demands renegotiation of the agreement. They want the clause on import liberalization, especially for agricultural products, to be scrapped. Congress believes the deal is one-sided and detrimental to Indian farmers. They urge the government to put the framework in cold storage.

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva urged Donald Trump on Sunday to treat all countries equally after the US leader imposed a 15 percent tariff on imports following an adverse Supreme Court ruling. The conservative-majority Supreme Court ruled six to three on Friday that a 1977 law Trump has relied on to slap sudden levies on individual countries, upending global trade, does not authorize the President to impose tariffs.

Four Indian Youth Congress workers were arrested at the AI Impact Summit. A Delhi court remanded them to five days police custody. The court stated their protest was an assault on public order. It also noted the action harmed India's diplomatic image. The accused are from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Indian-origin cricketers shining in the T20 World Cup for USA, Canada, and Oman. He highlighted how these athletes, despite representing other nations, maintain a connection to their roots and contribute to their adopted countries. Their performances, even in teams that didn't reach the Super 8, brought pride and inspired many.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to adopt the Vocal for Local mantra during the festive season, encouraging people to buy domestic products and support self-reliance. In his Mann Ki Baat address, he extended greetings for Ramadan and the upcoming Holi festival, and asked people to celebrate with family while prioritising locally made goods.

Commuters caught in the recent 32-hour Mumbai-Pune Expressway traffic jam will receive refunds. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation will return Rs 5.16 crore to 1.2 lakh travellers. This follows reports of toll collection continuing despite suspension orders after a gas tanker overturned. The refunds will be credited to FASTag accounts soon.

Gate Response Sheet 2026: The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati has concluded the GATE 2026 examination. Candidates can now anticipate the release of the provisional answer key on the official website, gate2026.iitg.ac.in, to estimate their scores and prepare for subsequent admission processes.