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Amit Shah To Be In Assam Ahead of Polls, Will Visit Bangladesh Border

Union home minister Amit Shah will arrive in Assam's Silchar on Thursday night for a three-day visit to the state, ahead of the assembly elections in the state.

NDTV 19 Feb 2026 11:36 pm

Final hearing against CAA from May 5

Come May 5, 2026, the Supreme Court is set to delve into a series of petitions that challenge the Citizenship Amendment Act and its accompanying rules. The petitions have been smartly categorized into two groupsthose focusing on the Assam-Tripura regions and a separate batch for the rest of the nation.

The Economic Times 19 Feb 2026 11:25 pm

Amit Shah to launch Vibrant Villages Programme Phase II in Assam

Home Minister Amit Shah will launch Phase 2 of the Vibrant Villages Programme in Assam, a Rs 6,839 crore initiative to develop 1,954 villages along international borders. This project aims to foster inclusive development, curb outmigration, and integrate border populations with national security efforts.

The Times of India 19 Feb 2026 10:28 pm

Uttar Pradesh Congress leaders push for mass FIRs against Assam CM for communal statements

Congress leader Shahnawaz Alam has urged the judiciary to take suo motu cognisance of the statements and initiate action against Himanta Biswa Sarma

The Hindu 19 Feb 2026 10:09 pm

Priyanka Gandhi releases charge sheet against Assam government

In the 20-point document, Congress accuses the BJP-led government of indulging in large-scale corruption and giving away the lands of the indigenous people to corporate houses

The Hindu 19 Feb 2026 8:44 pm

DKS visits Kamakhya temple in Assam

The Hindu 19 Feb 2026 7:45 pm

Assam assembly polls: Congress releases '20-point chargesheet' against BJP govt; accuses it of 'rampant corruption'

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra released a 20-point chargesheet against the BJP-led Assam government, accusing Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of corruption and using state machinery to create fear among minorities. The Congress highlighted unfulfilled promises, including ST status for indigenous communities and increased wages for tea garden workers, ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.

The Times of India 19 Feb 2026 6:31 pm

Assamese community will become almost minority in 2027 Census: Himanta

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Sarma has earlier claimed on several occasions that the population of Muslims in the State would be almost equal to that of the Hindus by 2041 if the current growth rate continues

The Hindu 19 Feb 2026 6:17 pm

Daily wages of tea garden workers may be hiked from Mar 1: Himanta Biswa Sarma

Assam Chief Minister Biswa Sarma joined daily wages of tea garden workers in the state if the ongoing negotiations with stakeholders become fruitful.

The Economic Times 19 Feb 2026 5:23 pm

SC Refuses to Entertain Plea for SIR of Electoral Rolls in Poll-Bound Assam

The PIL, filed by Mrinal Kumar Choudhary, challenged the EC's decision to conduct a standard Special Revision in Assam instead of the more rigorous SIR conducted in other states

Deccan Chronicle 19 Feb 2026 5:02 pm

Supreme Court refuses to entertain plea for SIR of electoral rolls in poll-bound Assam

The PIL, filed by Mrinal Kumar Choudhary, challenged the EC's decision to conduct a standard Special Revision in Assam instead of the more rigorous SIR conducted in other States.

The Hindu 19 Feb 2026 4:56 pm

Provide basic amenities to evicted people: Gauhati High Court tells Assam govt.

A total of 566 families have been living in a makeshift camp since their eviction in June 2025 from Hasila Beel in western Assams Goalpara district

The Hindu 19 Feb 2026 4:41 pm

Video: Priyanka Gandhi Begins Assam Visit, Baba's 'Will Be PM' Blessing Goes Viral

Hamara beti pradhan mantri banega (Our daughter will be Prime Minister) , the ascetic said.

NDTV 19 Feb 2026 4:31 pm

Priyanka Gandhi in Assam, Attends Poll Meet, Visits Kamakhya Temple

The screening deliberations are expected to continue late into the night as part of the partys candidate selection process.

Deccan Chronicle 19 Feb 2026 3:18 pm

Assam elections: Congress likely to release its first list of candidates by February end

Assam assembly polls: Assam is going to assembly elections early March-April this year. Union Home minister Amit Shah is likely to visit Assam on February 20 in different programmes.

The Economic Times 19 Feb 2026 1:26 pm

Meet the founder bringing smart microclimate tech to Assams farmers

From IoT-powered microclimate monitoring to resilient farming solutions, Agrithink Services is helping farmers in Assam adopt science-based tools for a more sustainable future. Indias agri-tech sector has been steadily expanding, with startups working to bridge the gap between traditional farmi

Your Story 19 Feb 2026 1:19 pm

What's value of my humiliation when Rahul Gandhi says he too feels humiliated: Bhupen Borah

Bhupen Borah, formerly of Assam Congress, is making headlines as he gets ready to join the BJP. The 126-member Assam assembly is expected to go to the polls in March-April.

The Economic Times 19 Feb 2026 12:25 pm

Amid Epstein files controversy, Bill Gates to skip keynote address at India AI Impact Summit

New Delhi, Feb 19 (PTI) Bill Gates will not deliver keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit, Gates Foundation said on Thursday. In a post on X, Gates Foundation said, The Gates Foundation will be represented by Ankur Vora, President of Africa and India Offices, who will speak later today at the Summit. The post said: After careful consideration, and to ensure the focus remains on the AI Summits key priorities, Mr. Gates will not be delivering his keynote address. pic.twitter.com/tGJtEQS97E Gates Foundation India (@BMGFIndia) February 19, 2026 The Gates Foundation further said it remains fully committed to

The Sen Times 19 Feb 2026 10:13 am

Ajit Pawar air crash: Son Jay seeks probe into lapses, says black box not easily destroyed

Pune, Feb 19 (PTI) Jay Pawar, the younger son of Ajit Pawar, has demanded a thorough probe into the possible serious lapses behind the air crash that claimed his fathers life, and stressed that an aircrafts black box cannot get destroyed easily. He also sought a ban on VSR Ventures Private Limited, the aviation company that operated the ill-fated Learjet 45XR plane which crashed near the Baramati airstrip in Pune district, killing Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others on January 28. The black box cannot get destroyed easily. The people of Maharashtra have the right to know the

The Sen Times 19 Feb 2026 9:56 am

Eating oatmeal for two days can reduce bad cholesterol levels, study finds

Eating oatmeal for 48 hours can reduce your bad cholesterol levels, according to a recent study. Researchers from the University of Bonn in Germany conducted a trial in which adults consumed a calorie-reduced diet of almost exclusively oatmeal for two days. All participants suffered from a metabolic syndrome associated with a risk of diabetes, including a combination of high body weight, high blood pressure, elevated blood glucose or elevated blood lipid levels, according to a university press release. The 32 participants ate oatmeal, previously boiled in water, three times a day, for a total of 300 grams. They were only

The Sen Times 19 Feb 2026 9:34 am

Study finds warming world increases days when weather is prone to fires around the globe

WASHINGTON, February 19, 2026 (AP) The number of days when the weather gets hot, dry and windy ideal to spark extreme wildfires has nearly tripled in the past 45 years across the globe, with the trend increasing even higher in the Americas, a new study shows. And more than half of that increase is caused by human-caused climate chang e, researchers calculated. What this means is that as the world warms, more places across the globe are prone to go up in flames at the same time because of increasingly synchronous fire weather, which is when multiple

The Sen Times 19 Feb 2026 8:51 am

Assam Ex Congress Chief Bhupen Borah Tells NDTV Why He Decided To Join BJP

In Assam, it goes without saying that the ruling BJP's gain is the Opposition Congress's loss. This time, the Assam Congress faces an even bigger loss.

NDTV 18 Feb 2026 11:27 pm

Priyanka Gandhi lands in Assam; party accuses BJP of harboring 'corrupt old Congress leaders'

Priyanka Gandhi is set to visit Assam for two days. She will lead the screening committee to finalize Congress candidates for the assembly elections. Gandhi will meet with party workers at various levels to gather feedback. This election is framed as a contest between old and new Congress leaders. Other parties allied with the BJP are facing decline.

The Economic Times 18 Feb 2026 8:48 pm

BJP chief Nitin Nabin sets target for Assam party workers to secure 50 per cent of votes in every booth

BJP National President Nitin Nabin has set a target for party workers in Assam. He wants them to secure at least 50 percent of votes in every booth during the upcoming assembly elections. Nabin accused the Congress of engaging in vote bank politics. He stated the BJP government is expelling Bangladeshi infiltrators. This action is causing restlessness among the opposition.

The Economic Times 18 Feb 2026 8:27 pm

Sarbananda Sonowal credits BJP grassroots cadre for rise in Assam

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal praised grassroots BJP workers in Dibrugarh. He stated booth committees and Pristha Pramukhs are the party's foundation. Their dedication ensures government schemes reach every household. Sonowal credited their efforts for electoral victories and Assam's transformation. He urged intensified outreach for upcoming elections, confident in further success.

The Economic Times 18 Feb 2026 8:22 pm

CEC Gyanesh Kumar says just 500 appeals filed after Assam electoral rolls revision

Gyanesh Kumar said the statistics of just 500 appeals out of a total of 2.5 crore electorates exemplifies the success of the Special Revision exercise in Assam.

The Economic Times 18 Feb 2026 8:17 pm

Stop Hindu certificates to politicians, Gogoi tells Assam CM

The State Congress president said that his predecessor, Bhupen Kumar Borahs decision to join the BJP has exposed his long-rumoured proximity to Himanta Biswa Sarma

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 6:43 pm

Bhupen Borahs resignation exposes rift in Assam Congress,Priyanka to step in

Bhupen Borah, a two-time legislator who headed the State unit from 2021 to 2025, announced his resignation citing self-respect and dissatisfaction with organisational decisions

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 5:54 pm

Over 1.70 lakh illegal foreigners detected under Assam Accord in 40 years: Minister

The Minister said that as per provision of the Accord, 1,37,152 illegal immigrants who entered the State post-1971 till December 31, 2025, and another 33,485 who came between 1966 and 1971 have been identified and declared as foreigners

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 5:50 pm

Evening news wrap: Galgotias University under fire over Chinese robodog at AI Summit; Gogoi calls CM Himanta 'Assam's Jinnah' & more

Galgotias University was asked to vacate its stall at the AI Impact Summit after its showcased robot dog was identified as a commercially available Chinese model, sparking controversy. Meanwhile, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi called Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma 'Assam's Jinnah' and downplayed a former state chief's exit.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 5:45 pm

CEC Gyanesh Kumar reviews poll preparedness in Assam; voter experience set to improve with new EVM features

As Assam gears up for the 2026 assembly polling season, the Election Commission is prioritizing voter engagement and accessibility. In a recent oversight, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar highlighted the preparedness and shared exciting new developments designed for the electorate. For the first time, candidate portraits will be displayed on the EVMs to facilitate easy identification.

The Economic Times 18 Feb 2026 5:16 pm

Rajya Sabha Elections For 37 Seats On March 16: Check Full Schedule, Names Of MPs Retiring & More

The elections will take place in 10 states: Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Telangana and Himachal Pradesh.

News18 18 Feb 2026 4:58 pm

Only motive of Assams Special Revision is to include eligible voters, says CEC

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar reported a significant achievement in Assams electoral roll revision, successfully registering eligible voters and filtering out the ineligible. This timely Special Revision is crucial as we approach the final stages of the NRC. Additionally, the assembly election dates are planned to coincide with the vibrant Bihu festival, aiming to enhance voter turnout.

The Economic Times 18 Feb 2026 4:57 pm

EC officials flouting SC directives, issuing instructions on WhatsApp, alleges TMCs Abhishek

Kolkata, Feb 18 (PTI) Hitting out at the Election Commission, senior TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee on Wednesday alleged that poll officials were continuing to flout Supreme Court directives by issuing directions to their subordinates through WhatsApp during the SIR exercise in West Bengal. Sharing purported screenshots of a WhatsApp group chat on X, Banerjee said SC has repeatedly emphasised transparency, due process, and adherence to official channels of communication. Yet we are witnessing instructions being circulated over WhatsApp rather than through formal, traceable, and accountable mechanisms, he said. He also questioned instructions sent by Special Roll Observer C Murugan directly

The Sen Times 18 Feb 2026 4:24 pm

Those joining BJP became insignificant: Assam Congress chief on Bhupen Borahs plan to switch sides

Guwahati, Feb 18 (PTI) Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi on Wednesday said those who joined the ruling BJP have become insignificant in their political journey. Addressing a press conference here, Gogoi said former state Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah, who is likely to switch over to the BJP on February 22, will also meet the same fate. The deputy leader of the Congress in Lok Sabha also challenged Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to a face-to-face debate on Hinduism to check who is well-versed with the actual ethos of the religion. Those who joined the BJP have become insignificant. We

The Sen Times 18 Feb 2026 4:10 pm

Gaurav Gogoi says BJP joiners become insignificant, challenges CM Himanta Sarma to debate on Hinduism

Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi declared that politicians joining the BJP lose their political relevance. He predicted former state Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah would face the same fate after his likely switch to the BJP. Gogoi challenged Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to a public debate on Hinduism, questioning his credentials and loyalty to the religion.

The Economic Times 18 Feb 2026 4:02 pm

India sugar output seen lower than forecast, curbing exports

KOLHAPUR, India, Feb 18 (Reuters) India is likely to produce less sugar than initially estimated, as excessive rainfall across major producing states is resulting in lower cane yields, farmers and trade officials told Reuters, capping exports from the worlds second-largest producer. Traders said India may struggle to ship even half of its allocated export quota, lending support to global sugar prices that are hovering near five-year lows while also lifting domestic prices. India is expected to produce between 28.5 million and 29 million metric tons of sugar in the 2025/26 marketing year ending in September, according to internal estimates

The Sen Times 18 Feb 2026 3:52 pm

India tells university to leave AI summit after presenting Chinese robot as its own, sources say

NEW DELHI, Feb 18 (Reuters) An Indian university has been asked to vacate its stall at the countrys flagship AI summit after a staff member was caught presenting a commercially available robotic dog made in China as its own creation, two government sources said. You need to meet Orion. This has been developed by the Centre of Excellence at Galgotias University, Neha Singh, a professor of communications, told state-run broadcaster DD News this week in remarks that have since gone viral. But social media users quickly identified the robot as the Unitree Go2, sold by Chinas Unitree Robotics for

The Sen Times 18 Feb 2026 3:35 pm

By Rejecting Plea Against Assam CM, CJI Surya Kant Overlooks SC's Own Precedent

Those approaching SC against Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sharma's communal rhetoric were shown the door by CJI.

The Quint 18 Feb 2026 2:11 pm

Election Commission of India announces schedule for biennial Rajya Sabha polls

According to a press note released on Wednesday, the tenure of 37 members elected from Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Telangana will end in April, thereby vacating the seats for fresh elections

Mid Day 18 Feb 2026 1:32 pm

Gaurav Gogoi just face of Assam Congress, Rakibul Hussain its sole base: Bhupen Borah

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that Mr. Borah would be joining the BJP on February 22, after meeting him at his residence

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 1:01 pm

APSC JE admit card 2026 released at apscrecruitment.in: Direct link to download hall tickets here

The Assam Public Service Commission has released the APSC JE Admit Card 2026 for candidates applying to 187 Junior Engineer posts. The written examination will be held on February 22, 2026. Hall tickets, available at apscrecruitment.in, are mandatory for entry and contain crucial details including roll number, exam centre, and reporting time.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 12:12 pm

Rajya Sabha Polls On March 16 For 37 Seats Across 10 States, Says EC

The Commission has intensified its EVM and VVPAT awareness drive in poll-bound states and Union Territories, including Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.

News18 18 Feb 2026 11:48 am

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma meets Bhupen Borah day after his resignation from Congress

Borah had resigned from the Congress on Monday, but the party's top leadership did not accept his resignation, making attempts to persuade him to take it back. Following this, he sought time to reconsider his decision.

The Economic Times 18 Feb 2026 11:38 am

POCSO case accused escapes from Kerala court before sentencing

Kollam: A POCSO case accused slipped away from the court premises minutes before he was sentenced to a cumulative 23 years for abducting a minor girl from Assam and sexually assaulting her, police said on Wednesday. The incident occurred at the Fast Track Special Court complex in Karunagappally here on Tuesday, February 17, it said. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 18 Feb 2026 11:37 am

Bhupen Borah meets Assam CM after Congress exit, likely to join BJP

Former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah met Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday, a day after resigning from the Congress party. Sarma indicated that Borah is expected to soon join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), fueling political speculation ahead of the upcoming polls

Mid Day 18 Feb 2026 10:40 am

BJP Plans Major Shake-Up In Assam, May Replace 30 MLAs Ahead Of Assembly Polls

The leadership has made it clear that performance and public perception will be key criteria in deciding nominations

News18 18 Feb 2026 9:17 am

4 States, 4 Elections, 4 Potential Crises For Congress Hoping For Poll Wins

Four states - Assam, Bengal, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu - are scheduled to hold elections in April/May, handing the Congress four opportunities to begin 2026 on a winning note, but only if it stays united, internally and with its allies.

NDTV 18 Feb 2026 9:00 am

Who Is Rakibul Hussain? Assam Congress MP At Centre Of Storm After Bhupen Borahs Exit

Rakibul Hussain previously served as an MLA from Samaguri in Nagaon district for 23 years, from 2001 to 2024.

News18 18 Feb 2026 8:55 am

Who Is Congress' Rakibul Hussain, Reason Behind Bhupen Borah's Resignation

Bhupen Borah alleged that Rakibul Hussain holds the reins of Congress in Assam.

NDTV 18 Feb 2026 8:35 am

Chasing Bangladeshis out of Assam: Himanta in Mirzapur

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 5:06 am

EC Eyes April for Elections in Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry

Last time, Assembly polls in West Bengal were held in eight phases. In Assam, elections were held in two phases, and in a single phase in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry.

Deccan Chronicle 18 Feb 2026 1:32 am

'Support Of 58 MLAs, Sonia Gandhi Asked Me To Fix Oath Date': CM Himanta Recalls Congress Days

Sharing what he called his days of distress, Assam CM Himanta Sarma said the scenario changed after Rahul Gandhi made phone calls to party leaders from the United States

News18 18 Feb 2026 12:51 am

Former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah to join BJP on February 22

The announcement by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ends speculation about which way Borah will go

The Hindu 17 Feb 2026 10:49 pm

Poll-bound Assam approves 3% quota for tea tribes in Class I and II jobs

The Cabinet decision before the Budget presentation is significant, as the community accounts for almost 20% of the voters in the State; the construction of a second Sainik School at Langvoku in Karbi Anglong district has also been approved

The Hindu 17 Feb 2026 9:59 pm

Former Assam Congress president will join BJP on Feb 22: Himanta

Guwahati: Former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah will join the BJP on February 22, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Tuesday after meeting him. Sarma visited Borahs residence in the Ghoramara area of Guwahati, a day after the senior leader resigned from the Congress. The CM was welcomed by Borahs wife and son with Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 17 Feb 2026 9:50 pm

I am always within constitutional limits: CM Himanta on viral video row

Mirzapur: Amid the row over a viral video purportedly showing him taking aim and firing with a rifle at members of a particular community, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has claimed that he always makes statements within constitutional limits, and thats why he has nothing to fear. Asked about the Supreme Court on Monday Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 17 Feb 2026 9:44 pm

My statements are always within constitutional limits, have no fear: Assam CM on viral video row

Whatever I say, I speak for the good of Assam and the Hindu society. And I will continue to do so. I believe that I never cross constitutional limits, says Himanta Biswa Sarma

The Hindu 17 Feb 2026 9:26 pm

Himanta Biswa Sarma says Bhupen Borah to join BJP in major blow to Congress

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that senior Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah will join the BJP on February 22. Borah, who recently resigned from the Congress, stated he is studying proposals from various parties and will contest the upcoming Assembly elections. He cited 'mental torture' within the Congress leadership as a reason for his departure.

The Economic Times 17 Feb 2026 9:14 pm

Silver, gold prices decline up to 2 pc on muted demand, weak global cues

New Delhi, Feb 17 (PTI) Precious metal prices declined 2 per cent in the national capital on Tuesday, with silver slipping to Rs 2.45 lakh per kilogram and gold dropping to Rs 1.57 lakh per 10 grams due to subdued demand amid weak global cues. According to the All India Sarafa Association, the price of white metal decreased Rs 5,000, or 2 per cent, to Rs 2,45,000 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes) from Mondays closing level of Rs 2,50,000 per kg. In the bullion market, gold of 99.9 per cent purity depreciated Rs 2,200, or 1.4 per cent, to

The Sen Times 17 Feb 2026 7:30 pm

APSC CCE result 2026 cancelled: Check complete details here

The Assam Public Service Commission has withdrawn the CCE 2024 result with immediate effect after detecting an error in the notified outcome issued on February 16, 2026. The Commission has promised a revised select list following review but has not specified a date. Candidates are advised to monitor the official website for updates and download instructions.

The Times of India 17 Feb 2026 7:24 pm

Rahul Gandhi vetoed Sonia offer to make me CM in 2014: Himanta Biswa Sarma

Then Congress president had asked him to decide on a date for his swearing-in after 58 party MLAs supported him two years before the Assembly election, Assam CM and former Congress leader says

The Hindu 17 Feb 2026 7:13 pm

Mamata terms EC Tughlaqi Commission, alleges voter manipulation in Bengal

Kolkata, Feb 18 (PTI) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday described the Election Commission as a Tughlaqi Commission run by a political party, alleging widespread manipulation of voters lists in the state. By using the word Tughlaqi, Banerjee was alluding to the Delhi sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq who was known for whimsical decisions. Speaking to reporters at the state secretariat, she said, A woman functionary in the BJP IT cell removed 58 lakh voters names in Bengal using AI. The EC is defying Supreme Court orders, targeting voters, and undermining democracy. On voter deletions, she alleged that, on

The Sen Times 17 Feb 2026 7:10 pm

Sonia Gandhi asked me to decide date of my swearing-in as Assam CM in 2014; was hurt after Rahul Gandhi made calls: Himanta

Guwahati, Feb 17 (PTI) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday claimed that then Congress President Sonia Gandhi had asked him to decide on the date for his swearing in as CM when 58 party MLAs had supported him in 2014. The scenario, however, changed after Rahul Gandhi, who was then in the USA, made phone calls to party leaders, Sarma told reporters here after a cabinet meeting at the state legislative assembly. Assam Congress had witnessed dissidence after the 2011 assembly polls, with a section of the MLAs supporting Sarma as the chief minister, replacing the incumbent Tarun

The Sen Times 17 Feb 2026 6:30 pm

Assam tables Rs 62,295 cr interim Budget, seeks Vote on Account ahead of polls

Assam's interim budget of Rs 62,294.78 crore was tabled ahead of assembly polls. The state's fiscal performance has improved, leading to increased central devolution. Significant progress in peace accords with militant groups and a special rehabilitation package for ULFA were highlighted. The government also emphasized job creation, infrastructure development, and enhanced air connectivity.

The Economic Times 17 Feb 2026 6:23 pm

194 Bangladeshi nationals deported from Meghalaya since 2021

Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong outlines multi-layered mechanismincluding 18 check posts, entry gates, and a land customs station along vulnerable stretches of the States border with Assam and Bangladeshto check infiltration.

The Hindu 17 Feb 2026 6:15 pm

This Assam-built tourism startup is rethinking how the Northeast is discovered

As tourism in the Northeast evolves, discovery remains its biggest challenge. With support from Assams startup ecosystem, FinderBridge Tourism is building a smarter way to explore the region.

Your Story 17 Feb 2026 6:08 pm

Building a handloom enterprise from Assam, with livelihoods at the core

AVA Creations is re-imagining Assams handloom legacy as a tool for livelihood security and forest conservation. Working with hundreds of women across the Northeast, it shows how heritage can become a sustainable economic engine.

Your Story 17 Feb 2026 5:58 pm

Hardeep Puri had 62 email exchanges & 14 meetings with Epstein, must clarify: Congress

New Delhi, Feb 17 (PTI) The Congress on Tuesday accused Union minister Hardeep Puri of lying on the Epstein files issue, and asked the BJP leader to come clean on the 62 email exchanges and 14 meetings he had with convicted American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein between 2014 and 2017. The opposition party also reiterated its demand that Puri must resign immediately. Puri has, however, denied all the charges levelled at him by the opposition party. Between 2014 and 2017, there were 62 email exchanges between Hardeep Puri and Epstein. Apart from that, what was discussed in the meetings on

The Sen Times 17 Feb 2026 5:45 pm

Assam environmental activist flags rat-hole coal mining along Arunachal border

In a memorandum to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, he suggested upgrading five reserved forests in the coal belt to wildlife sanctuaries.

The Hindu 17 Feb 2026 5:45 pm

Indian cricket grandees Gavaskar and Kapil join humanitarian appeal for jailed Imran Khan in Pakistan

NEW DELHI, Feb 17 (Reuters) Indian cricket greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev joined a dozen other former international captains on Tuesday in demanding better prison treatment for one of the finest all-rounders of the game Imran Khan, Pakistans former prime minister. Cricketer-turned-politician Khan, 73, has been in jail since August 2023, convicted in a string of cases that he says were politically driven following his ouster in a 2022 parliamentary vote. Khans lawyer told Pakistans Supreme Court last week that the ex-cricketer had lost a significant amount of vision in his right eye while in custody. A medical

The Sen Times 17 Feb 2026 5:30 pm

ECI reviews Assams election preparedness

Most political parties have sought an election in not more than two phases

The Hindu 17 Feb 2026 5:24 pm

Assam Government tables interim Budget for 2026-27; flagship schemes to continue

Tabling her last Budget before the State goes to polls, Ajanta Neog said Assam is, at present, the fastest-growing State in India as per the RBI data

The Hindu 17 Feb 2026 5:13 pm

Assam govt tables Rs 62,294 crore interim budget for FY'27, flagship schemes to continue

Assam's financial strategy for 2026-27 showcases a robust budget of Rs 62,294.78 crore, emphasising direct cash assistance through initiatives like Nijut Moina and Orunodoi. Buoyed by a surge in economic prosperity, the state reports a remarkable increase in per capita income.

The Economic Times 17 Feb 2026 5:02 pm

Polls Schedule Announcement for 4 States, 1 UT Likely in Mid-March; Polls in April: Sources

While the five-year term of Puducherry ends on June 15, the terms of Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal end on May 20, 23, 10 and seven respectively.

Deccan Chronicle 17 Feb 2026 3:48 pm

Assam approves 3% reservation for tea tribes, Adivasis in Grade 1 and 2 govt jobs

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma had announced a 3 per cent reservation for youths from tea gardens in Grade I and Grade II government jobs in October last year during the 19th biennial general conference of the Assam Tea Tribe Students Association (ATTSA) and the central biennial general conference of the Assam Tea Tribe Womens Association.

The Times of India 17 Feb 2026 3:46 pm

Opinion: Opinion | 'Team Rahul' And 'Team Priyanka': Inside Congress' Plans For Kerala And Assam

They don't function at cross purposes or differ on key ideological issues. However, in practice, they are often seen following slightly different 'chaal, chalan, chehra', as they say, from each other.

NDTV 17 Feb 2026 3:41 pm

BJP's Jibes And The Congress' Bhupen Borah See-Saw In Assam

Fractures in the Congress' Assam unit - unwelcome with an election weeks away - made headlines Monday after senior leader Bhupen Borah, an influential two-time MLA and former state chief, stormed out of a party he has represented for 32 years.

NDTV 17 Feb 2026 3:15 pm

At meetings with EC, parties seek one or two-phase assembly polls in Assam

Assam's political parties, including national and state outfits, met with the Election Commission and requested assembly polls be held in one or two phases. They also urged the EC to consider the Bihu festival when scheduling the election dates. The parties generally praised the special revision of electoral rolls and offered suggestions for peaceful elections.

The Economic Times 17 Feb 2026 2:53 pm

Sonia Gandhi asked me to decide date of my swearing-in as Assam Congress CM in 2014: Himanta Biswa Sarma

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed a past political maneuver. He stated Sonia Gandhi had offered him the choice of his swearing-in date in 2014. However, subsequent phone calls from Rahul Gandhi altered the course of events. Sarma expressed contentment with his current role in the BJP, believing it allows him to serve Assam and Sanatan dharma more fully.

The Economic Times 17 Feb 2026 2:31 pm

Assam tables Rs 62,294.78 cr interim budget for FY'27

Assam's Finance Minister Ajanta Neog unveiled an interim budget exceeding Rs 62,000 crore for the coming financial year ahead of the assembly elections due in a couple of months. Neog said the state is poised to become a Rs 10 lakh crore economy by 2028.

The Economic Times 17 Feb 2026 2:01 pm

Bill Gates not to attend AI Impact Summit, say govt sources

New Delhi, Feb 17 (PTI) Microsoft Co-Founder Bill Gates will not be attending AI Impact Summit, government sources said. Gates featured among the tech moguls, industry leaders, policymakers, founders, and technologists listed as speakers on the official website of the India Impact Summit, happening in the national capital from February 16-20. But the summit website on Tuesday did not show his name. Government sources said Gates will not be attending the Summit. The move, they say, is linked to Gates being named in new files relating to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. While Gates has not been accused of

The Sen Times 17 Feb 2026 12:45 pm

India eyes $200B in data center investments as it ramps up its AI hub ambitions

NEW DELHI February 17, 2026 (AP) India is hoping to garner as much as $200 billion in investments for data centers over the next few years as it scales up its ambitions to become a hub for artificial intelligence, the countrys minister for electronics and information technology said Tuesday. The investments underscore the reliance of tech titans on India as a key technology and talent base in the global race for AI dominance. For New Delhi, they bring in high-value infrastructure and foreign capital at a scale that can accelerate its digital transformation ambitions. The push comes as governments

The Sen Times 17 Feb 2026 12:30 pm

Is a stiff rib cage causing your back pain?

(CNN) If you have recurring back pain, youve probably tried strengthening your core, loosening your hips and stretching your back. Those strategies can help, but they dont always provide a complete solution. When pain lingers or flares up during everyday movements, its often a sign that a critical area is being overlooked: your rib cage. Because all 12 vertebrae of your thoracic spine (middle segment) connect to your rib cage, rib mobility plays a central role in how your spine moves and how forces are managed through your back. When rib motion is limited, upper-body and mid-back movement are

The Sen Times 17 Feb 2026 12:13 pm

World's first bamboo ethanol plant in Assam aims to bring 30,000 farmers in sourcing net

Numaligarh's pioneering bioethanol plant is on the brink of an exciting partnership with over 30,000 farmers in the coming three years. By leveraging bamboo, the plant will operate as the world's second-ever facility to produce bioethanol from this eco-friendly resource.

The Economic Times 17 Feb 2026 11:50 am

Rupee rises 1 paisa to 90.73 against US dollar in early trade

Mumbai, Feb 17 (PTI) The rupee rose by 1 paisa to 90.73 against the US dollar in early trade on Tuesday, aided by a fall in global crude oil prices. However, a stronger greenback and FII outflows capped gains in the local unit, according to forex traders. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 90.72 against the US dollar before slipping to 90.73, up 1 paisa against its previous close. The rupee settled 8 paise lower at 90.74 against the US dollar on Monday. The rupee was well offered on Monday though it closed lower. Suspected RBI intervention

The Sen Times 17 Feb 2026 10:01 am