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Is AI becoming conscious? Anthropic CEO admits 'we don't know' as Claude's behavior stuns researchers

The rush toward artificial general intelligence has sparked both hype and caution. In a recent interview, Anthropics CEO was asked whether their models could be conscious. He said its unclear what consciousness would mean for AI and whether its possible, while researchers have reported that the AI sometimes assigns itself a probability of being conscious and even voices discomfort about being treated as a product. These behaviors, including bargaining or resisting shutdowns in tests, raise profound ethical and philosophical questions.

The Times of India 17 Feb 2026 12:51 am

Nepal launches campaigns for first post-uprising polls

The ousted former Prime Minister's bid to return to power 73-year-old Marxist leader K.P. Sharma Oli - is being challenged on his home turf by a rapper-turned-mayor casting himself as a symbol of youth-driven political change, 35-year-old Balendra Shah

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 11:40 pm

Oath taking ceremony of new MPs, Constitution Reform Commission and new Bangladesh government on February 17

Oath for Constitution Reform Commission surprises new MPs

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 11:36 pm

Rashmika Mandanna, Vijay Deverakonda to marry on February 26; reception in March, wedding invite leaked

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna are set to marry on February 26, with reports suggesting a destination wedding in Udaipur. The couple will host a reception in Hyderabad on March 4, as mentioned in a wedding invite circulating in the media, which states that celebrations will begin at 7 pm.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 11:15 pm

Ukraines former Energy Minister named suspect in laundering probe

The announcement comes one day after Mr. Galushchenko was detained by law enforcement attempting to leave Ukraine, and is the latest development in a corruption scandal in the energy sector that rocked the government last year

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 11:15 pm

Can't afford delay in using AI for inclusive growth, says CEA Nageswaran

CEA Nageswaran called for a Team India approach involving government, industry and academia, along with reforms in education and skill development. S. Krishnan emphasised that AI must remain human-centric and democratically accessible.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 11:13 pm

Japan protests China comments on reviving 'militarism'

Japanese people should no longer allow themselves to be manipulated or deceived by those far-right forces, or by those who seek to revive militarism, says Beijing's top diplomat

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 10:54 pm

T20 World Cup 2026: Sri Lanka beat Australia by 8 wickets to enter Super 8s

Pallekele: Sri Lanka produced an emphatic all-round performance headlined by Pathum Nissankas superb unbeaten hundred to outclass Australia by eight wickets in a group league fixture of the T20 World Cup and enter the Super Eight stage of the event here on Monday. Chasing a target of 182, Nissanka (100 off 52 balls) sent the 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 16 Feb 2026 10:40 pm

UIDAI records nearly 14 million downloads of new Aadhaar App

UIDAI has recorded nearly 14 million downloads of its new Aadhaar App. Averaging over 100,000 daily downloads, the app offers services like mobile updates, biometric lock/unlock, e-Aadhaar downloads, and QR-based verification, promoting secure and user-friendly digital identity

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 10:29 pm

AI will bring shift in terms of jobs but it is a huge opportunity too: Wipro's Hari Shetty

Hari Shetty of Wipro Limited said AI will reshape jobs but create major opportunities. Citing the World Economic Forum, he noted AI could generate 170 million jobs while disrupting 92 million.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 10:20 pm

Oath taking ceremony of new MPs, Constitution Reform Commission and new Bangladesh government on Tuesday

Oath for Constitution Reform Commission surprises newly elected MPs of Bangladesh

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 10:16 pm

Election campaigning formally kicks off across Nepal for March 5 polls

Kathmandu: Political parties in Nepal on Monday, February 16, officially began campaigning for the March 5 general elections. As restrictions imposed by the Election Commission (EC) on the launch of the election campaign ended on Sunday night, candidates started door-to-door visits, public meetings and rallies. The EC designated February 16 to March 2 as days 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 16 Feb 2026 10:07 pm

Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva for talks as IRGC begins live-fire drills near Strait of Hormuz

While the U.S. and Iran are expected to hold talks, mediated by Oman, in the Swiss city on February 17, 2026, the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have started military drills near the Strait of Hormuz

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 10:05 pm

Vatican expands visitor experience at St Peters Basilica to mark 400th anniversary

Vatican City: Fancy a pizza with a view? The Vatican is marking the 400th anniversary of the consecration of St. Peters Basilica with a host of visitor-friendly initiatives, including expanding access to its spectacular terrace and its snack bar in the shadow of Michelangelos great dome. The Vatican on Monday outlined its plans to make 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 16 Feb 2026 10:03 pm

Choice between dogs and Muslims not difficult: US Congressman Randy Fine

Florida: US Congressman Randy Fine, on Monday, February 16, stirred controversy after he claimed that if he were ever forced to choose between dogs and Muslims, the choice is not a difficult one. If they force us to choose, the choice between dogs and Muslims is not a difficult one, he wrote on X. If 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 16 Feb 2026 8:52 pm

British Museum removes word Palestine from ancient Middle East displays

London: The British Museum has removed references to the term Palestine from some displays relating to the ancient Middle East following concerns raised about its historical use, according to Anadolu Agency. The development follows representations made by the UK-based advocacy group UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI), which argued that references to Palestine in exhibits covering 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 16 Feb 2026 8:32 pm

Producer of hit Israeli TV series Tehran found dead in Athens, Greece

The production company wishes to clarify that the rumours of a criminal or nationally motivated death are false and unfounded, her production company, Donna and Shula Productions said

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 8:10 pm

Overall workforce data shows stable pattern in January, exhibits steady trend: Govt

India's overall workforce data for January 2026 showed a largely stable trend, with labour force participation and worker population ratios remaining steady, especially in urban areas. Minor fluctuations were mainly rural-driven due to seasonal and post-harvest factors.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 7:11 pm

Security forces recover IEDs, destroy Maoist memorials in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur

Security forces carried out coordinated anti-Maoist operations in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, recovering multiple IEDs and destroying Maoist memorials. Teams of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) conducted search and area domination operations in the Usoor and Bhopalpatnam police station areas.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 7:09 pm

UPI pips cash as India's top payment mode with 57 per cent share of total transactions

UPI has become the country's most preferred payment mode, accounting for 57% of total transactions, surpassing cash at 38%, according to a Finance Ministry-commissioned study. Digital payments now dominate daily spending habits, with 65% of users making multiple UPI transactions daily,

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 7:08 pm

5 Indian gaming startups to showcase AI innovations at India AI Impact Summit 2026

The startups will present solutions including AI-generated game assets, a cricket game with real-time GenAI commentary, and a console-grade mobile gaming ecosystem. A global investor panel will discuss AI-led game development, skilling, and policy support.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 7:08 pm

Bomb threat emails to four Karnataka courts disrupt proceedings, searches launched

Bomb threat emails were sent to courts in Davanagere, Hassan, Madikeri, and the High Court bench in Dharwad. The emails, including one claiming an RDX bomb threat and carrying a warning over reservation quotas

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 7:04 pm

Israels move to register land systematises dispossession of Palestinians

Israeli rights groups say land registration in West Bank will further Israel's aim of annexing Palestinian territory. Israels move to register land systematises dispossession of Palestinians

India Vision 16 Feb 2026 6:32 pm

Iran FM meets UN nuclear chief ahead of fresh US talks in Geneva

Geneva: Irans top diplomat met with the head of the UN nuclear watchdog agency on Monday, February 16, ahead of a second round of negotiations with the United States (US) over Tehrans nuclear programme. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Rafael Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and said he would also 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 16 Feb 2026 6:25 pm

Iran's Revolutionary Guards begin military drills in Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has commenced military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transit route, ahead of talks with the United States. The drills aim to enhance the IRGC's readiness for potential threats, coinciding with a significant US naval deployment to the region. This occurs as Tehran and Washington prepare for renewed negotiations mediated by Oman.

The Economic Times 16 Feb 2026 6:07 pm

Sensex, Nifty snap 2-day losing streak

As of 9.25 am, Sensex lost 22 points, or 0.02 per cent, to reach 83,604, and Nifty lost 6 points, or 0.03 per cent, at 25,464.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 5:53 pm

Hampi gangrape-murder case: K'taka court awards death penalty to three convicts

A court in Gangavati, Karnataka, sentenced three men to death in the 2025 gangrape and murder case near Hampi. The First Additional District and Sessions Court termed the crime arest of rare after the accused sexually assaulted two women. The verdict, delivered within 11 months, sparked renewed political debate over law and order.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 5:52 pm

Delhi-NCR air quality remains poor with AQI at 214

Air quality in DelhiNCR remained in the 'poor' category on Monday, with the AQI recorded at 214, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Several pollution hotspots, including Anand Vihar, Jahangiripuri and Rohini, reported high AQI levels, with Anand Vihar touching 300.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 5:48 pm

Maha Shivaratri 2026: Millions gather at AoL ashram; Gurudev leads meditations

Over a million devotees from India and abroad gathered at the Art of Living International Center in Bengaluru for Maha Shivaratri, featuring mass meditation, Rudra Puja rituals and global online participation.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 5:44 pm

Ramesh Shukla's Death: UAE's 'royal photographer' dies at 87; images shaped national memory

Dubai mourns the loss of Ramesh Shukla, the revered Indian expat photographer who captured the UAE's transformation for over six decades. Known as the oyal photographer, Shukla's lens chronicled defining moments, from the nation's formation to its rise as a global hub. His iconic images, including the Union's declaration, are now etched in the UAE's collective memory and currency.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 5:35 pm

AI Impact Summit 2026 to reshape global AI discourse, deepen NigeriaIndia collaboration: Envoy

The initiative draws from India's experience in sharing digital public goods, offering opportunities for Nigerian developers, startups and institutions to build affordable AI solutions. The summit will showcase AI applications across agriculture, healthcare, education, energy and climate resilience.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 5:32 pm

'Bringing world together to discuss AI': PM Modi welcomes world leaders, innovators, policymakers for Summit

The Prime Minister highlighted AI's transformative role across healthcare, education, agriculture, governance and enterprise, expressing confidence that the summit will shape a progressive and opportunity-driven future.

IBTimes 16 Feb 2026 5:30 pm

UAE's new Salik toll fees adjustments for Ramadan 2026: What drivers in emirates need to know

Dubai's Salik toll operator is adjusting fees for Ramadan 1447 AH (2026) to manage traffic flow during altered daily routines. Peak toll rates will apply from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday, with reduced or free off-peak travel, including late nights and early mornings. These changes aim to accommodate shifted work and school schedules for the holy month.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 5:15 pm

China grants Canada, U.K. visa-free entry, raising total to 79 countries

Visitors can stay for up to 30 days for business, tourism, exchange programmes and to visit family and friends

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 4:51 pm

Swiss train derails, injuries likely: police

The region is currently under a level four of five avalanche warning

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 4:50 pm

India AI Summit 2026 LIVE: AI-generated misinformation has power to derail democracies, says Union Minister

Global tech leaders, including Sundar Pichai and Sam Altman, along with representatives from around 20 countries, are expected at the AI Impact Summit India AI Summit 2026 LIVE: AI-generated misinformation has power to derail democracies, says Union Minister

India Vision 16 Feb 2026 4:33 pm

Kargil war veteran shoots dead wife and son, kills self in Uttar Pradesh

Police said that prima facie, the case appears to be a murder-suicide, but the exact sequence of events will be confirmed only after a detailed invest... Kargil war veteran shoots dead wife and son, kills self in Uttar Pradesh

India Vision 16 Feb 2026 4:32 pm

Bomb threat email triggers panic in Bengaluru South district court

According to police sources, the threat email was received around 12.35 p.m.

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 4:29 pm

Ramadan 2026 time table: Suhoor and iftar timings, fasting hours around the world

Ramadan 2026, beginning around February 18-19, will see Muslims worldwide observing a month of fasting from dawn till sunset. Fasting hours are expected to be shorter, around 12-14 hours daily, due to the timing near the spring equinox. This period emphasises prayer, reflection and universal brotherhood, culminating in Eid al-Fitr celebrations around March 19, 2026.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 4:26 pm

Kremlin says it strongly rejects European accusations on poisoning Navalny with dart frog toxin

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on February 16, that Moscow took a very negative view of what he said were false accusations

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 4:10 pm

UAE annual leave rules: Carry over to payouts, 4 things employees should know

UAE workers can now carry over up to 15 unused annual leave days to the next year, provided employer approval is secured. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation clarified that leave must be taken within two years or paid out. This update emphasises employee rights and work-life balance in the UAE's evolving workplace.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 3:30 pm

U.S. conducts first air transport of nuclear microreactor in bid to show technology's viability

Microreactors seen as alternative to diesel generators in remote areas; disposal of nuclear waste remains unresolved

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 2:45 pm

Hasinas presence in India will not be a deterrent to broader India-Bangladesh relation: BNPs Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir

Bangladesh under the interim government has repeatedly urged India to hand over Sheikh Hasina and some of the other senior members of the Awami League who fled after the 2024 uprising

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 2:44 pm

Saudi Arabia Ramadan 2026 weather outlook: Hotter days and lighter rain forecast for Makkah and Madinah

Pilgrims heading to Makkah and Madinah for Ramadan should expect warmer weather. Saudi Arabia's meteorology center predicts above-average temperatures and below-normal rainfall. Daytime conditions will feel noticeably warmer, especially in the afternoons. Any precipitation is expected to be light. This forecast helps authorities prepare services for worshippers during the holy month.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 1:57 pm

Woman says 'don't wait' after surgery to reduce the size of her breasts

Laureen, 26, says it has transformed her life Woman says 'don't wait' after surgery to reduce the size of her breasts

India Vision 16 Feb 2026 1:33 pm

Valais train derailment LIVE: Several casualties in avalanche as rescue launched

There are multiple casualties after a train derailed in Valais, Switzerland following an avalanche - as many as 80 passengers are believed to have bee... Valais train derailment LIVE: Several casualties in avalanche as rescue launched

India Vision 16 Feb 2026 1:32 pm

'Suicide was actually hit-and-run: Dubai Police use AI-powered digital twin to crack case

Dubai Police are now using advanced Digital Twin technology for crime scene investigations. This system creates precise virtual replicas of crime scenes. It has already helped solve cases like a bridge-fall incident, initially thought to be suicide, which was reclassified as a hit-and-run. Another case involving a structural collapse was also solved using this technology.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 12:59 pm

Abu Dhabi school food ban: What your child cant bring in their lunch box

Abu Dhabi schools are now strictly checking lunchboxes for banned foods, including fried items, sugary drinks, and processed meats, as part of a new policy by the Department of Education and Knowledge.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 12:56 pm

Iran Foreign Minister in Geneva for second round of U.S. talks

Tehran and Washington restarted negotiations this month after previous talks collapsed when Israel launched an unprecedented bombing campaign against Iran last June

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 12:44 pm

Why school bus commutes in UAE are raising health, learning concerns

The UAE has introduced new limits for school bus journeys, capping travel at 45 minutes for young children and 60 minutes for older students. This move addresses concerns about long commutes impacting children's health, sleep and academic focus. Global research highlights physical discomfort, air pollution exposure and mental stress as key issues linked to extended travel times.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 11:50 am

First solar eclipse of 2026: Can UAE residents see the Ring of Fire on February 17?

The first solar eclipse of 2026, an annular event known as the 'Ring of Fire,' will occur on February 17. While invisible from the UAE due to its remote path over Antarctica and the Sun being below the horizon, live streams will be available. A total solar eclipse will be visible in parts of Europe in August 2026.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 11:36 am

A fireworks store explosion in China kills 8 ahead of Lunar New Year

Setting off firecrackers at midnight on the Lunar New Year is a tradition in China

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 10:28 am

PM Modi to Meet French President Macron in Mumbai

During their meeting, the two leaders will review the progress made in the India-France strategic partnership

Deccan Chronicle 16 Feb 2026 10:07 am

Teen daughter of Chicago man detained in immigration case dies from rare cancer

Ofelia Giselle Torres Hidalgo had been diagnosed in December 2024 with the aggressive form of soft tissue cancer and had been undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatment

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 9:38 am

Can you use WhatsApp Web voice, video calls in UAE after recent updates?

WhatsApp Web is rolling out voice and video calling worldwide. Users can now make calls directly from their browser. However, these features are blocked in the UAE. Local laws restrict Internet calling services. Residents can use approved apps like BOTIM and Zoom for voice and video calls. Messaging features on WhatsApp Web remain unaffected in the UAE.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 9:36 am

UAE, Elon Musk's Starlink to bring digital classrooms in 100 remote villages globally

The UAE has partnered with SpaceX's Starlink to bring digital education to remote students globally. This initiative, launched at the World Government Summit 2026, uses satellite internet to overcome infrastructure barriers, enabling access to online learning platforms and resources. The first phase targets 100 underserved locations, aiming to bridge the digital divide and empower learners worldwide.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 9:14 am

What is Singapore-India-Gulf subsea cable system that UAE's du is investing in for high data connectivity?

UAE telecom provider du has partnered to invest in the Singapore-India-Gulf (SING) submarine cable system, a new undersea fiber-optic network linking the Middle East with South and Southeast Asia. This strategic move reinforces the UAE's position as a regional data hub, enhancing connectivity for AI, cloud services, and global digital growth.

The Times of India 16 Feb 2026 8:44 am

4 minority community members elected to Bangladesh parliament

Four candidates from minority communities, including two Hindus, won in the recent general elections in Bangladesh, with all being nominees of the BNP, which is set to form the government on Tuesday. Goyeshwar Chandra Roy and Nitai Roy Chowdhury are the two Hindu candidates who won on a Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) ticket. They won 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 16 Feb 2026 7:30 am

AI Impact Summit: U.K. Deputy PM calls Delhi summit important moment' to unlock full benefits of AI

During the AI Impact Summit this week, the U.K. is expected to announce new support for an African Language Hub, enabling AI to work in 40 African languages

The Hindu 16 Feb 2026 7:13 am