The Times of India

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The case originated from allegations surrounding the now-withdrawn Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party government.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.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath experienced Japan's high-speed Maglev train during his official visit aimed at attracting global investment. The tour focuses on manufacturing, mobility, and technology, with the CM highlighting Uttar Pradesh's economic growth and secure investment environment. He also shared a photo with Mount Fuji, expressing gratitude to Japan.

At the DNPA Conclave 2026, media leaders, tech experts, and policymakers emphasized the critical role of technology and verified content in India's evolving digital news ecosystem. Discussions highlighted how AI, regulatory shifts, and India's digital public infrastructure are redefining news organizations' responsibilities towards credibility, inclusion, and accessibility for a resilient future.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney begins a four-day visit to India, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The agenda includes discussions on trade, investment, energy, critical minerals, and people-to-people connections, seeking to inject fresh momentum after a diplomatic row.

The Supreme Court has issued a show-cause notice to the NCERT director, calling the inclusion of a chapter on judicial corruption in a Class 8 textbook a deep-rooted conspiracy. The court ordered the seizure of all copies of the textbook in circulation, emphasizing the need for a deeper probe to prevent erosion of public faith in the judiciary.

Trust is now the bedrock of news, dictating audience loyalty and advertiser confidence in a crowded digital space. At the DNPA Conclave 2026, leaders emphasized how AI's rise makes verification crucial, with audiences demanding transparency. Brands are prioritizing credible sources, while revenue models increasingly rely on public faith. India's hyper-digital landscape presents both opportunities and fragility for media.

DNPA chairperson Mariam Mammen Mathew highlighted how AI and digital shifts are transforming news creation, distribution, and monetization. She stressed the importance of credible journalism anchoring technological advancements and DNPA's role in fostering collaboration and policy engagement to navigate these disruptions and ensure sustainable growth.

India strongly rebuked Pakistan at the UN Human Rights Council, dismissing its allegations regarding Jammu and Kashmir as incessant propaganda. New Delhi highlighted the region's development budget exceeding Pakistan's IMF bailout and pointed to infrastructure projects like the Chenab Rail Bridge as proof of progress, asserting that Kashmir is an integral part of India.

A Maoist commander, Anwesh, with a Rs 22 lakh bounty, was allegedly killed by his leader, Sukru, for planning to surrender to Odisha Police. His decomposed body was exhumed, revealing internal conflicts within Maoist groups over surrendering to authorities. The murder is believed to have been executed by Sukru with assistance from other cadres.

NCERT is recalling 38 copies of a Class 8 textbook after the Supreme Court strongly criticized its content on the judiciary. The Chief Justice of India took suo motu cognizance, calling the portrayal a deep-rooted conspiracy to defame the institution.

Canada now believes India is not linked to violent crimes on its soil, signaling a diplomatic thaw ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit. This shift follows months of strained ties and high-level security dialogue, with Ottawa confident alleged activities are no longer continuing. The visit aims to stabilize relations and expand cooperation in various sectors.