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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed key agreements in areas including rare earth minerals, digital partnership and mining cooperation on Saturday and aimed to raise bilateral trade to $20 billion within five years. The two countries sought to deepen their strategic and economic ties. Addressing a joint press conference after delegation-level talks in New Delhi, PM Modi said, “I am delighted to welcome President Lula and his delegation to India. India-Brazil relations have long benefited from President Lula’s vision and inspiring leadership.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are committed to taking bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in the next five years. Our trade is not just a figure; it’s a reflection of trust.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-held-protest-like-nepal-gen-z-delhi-police-tells-court-on-youth-congress-shirtless-stir-at-ai-summit-1771670760953">‘Held Nepal Gen Z-like protest’: Delhi Police tells court on Youth Congress shirtless stir at AI Summit</a>&nbsp;He added that the expansion of the India–MERCOSUR trade agreement would further boost economic cooperation, as Brazil is India’s largest trading partner in Latin America.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>India, Brazil sign three agreements</h2>&nbsp;India and Brazil signed three agreements covering digital cooperation, critical minerals and mining supply chains.PM Modi described the critical minerals agreement as significant amid global supply chain concerns. “The agreement is a major step towards building resilient supply chains,” he said. The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in emerging technology sectors.“I am pleased that we are working on establishing a Centre of Excellence for Digital Public Infrastructure in Brazil. We are also prioritising our cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, supercomputers, semiconductors, and blockchain,” PM Modi said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-don-t-be-a-panican-trust-trump-republicans-aides-rally-behind-president-1771613397421">‘Don’t be a Panican! Trust Trump’: Republicans, aides rally behind president</a>&nbsp;Energy cooperation emerged as a key pillar of the talks, with both sides agreeing to accelerate collaboration in renewable energy and sustainable fuels.&nbsp;“Energy cooperation has been a strong pillar of our relationship. In addition to hydrocarbons, we are also accelerating cooperation in several areas, including renewable energy, ethanol blending, and sustainable aviation fuel,” PM said. &nbsp;He also hailed Brazil’s participation in global climate initiatives like Global Biofuel Alliance.&nbsp;<h2>‘A meeting of digital superpower with renewable energy superpower,’ says Lula&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;President Lula described the meeting as a partnership between two major global powers of the Global South and highlighted the strategic importance of India-Brazil relations. “My dear friend Modi, it is a reason of happiness for me to return to this country for the sixth time. The meeting between India and Brazil is a meeting of superlatives. We are not just the two biggest democracies of the Global South. This is a meeting of a digital superpower with a renewable energy superpower,” Lula said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-victory-for-americans-and-us-economy-democrats-rejoice-over-scotus-ruling-against-trump-s-tariffs-1771608358859">‘Victory for Americans and US economy’: Democrats rejoice over SCOTUS ruling against Trump’s tariffs</a>&nbsp;He said both countries share common positions on global governance and multilateral cooperation. “A turbulent global scenario requires our countries to strengthen and deepen our strategic dialogue. India and Brazil are crucial voices at the UN, the WTO and G20,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the expansion of the India–MERCOSUR trade agreement would further boost economic cooperation, as Brazil is India’s largest trading partner in Latin America. He added that the two nations aim to take bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in next five years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed key agreements in areas including rare earth minerals, digital partnership and mining cooperation on Saturday and aimed to raise bilateral trade to $20 billion within five years. The two countries sought to deepen their strategic and economic ties. Addressing a joint press conference after delegation-level talks in New Delhi, PM Modi said, “I am delighted to welcome President Lula and his delegation to India. India-Brazil relations have long benefited from President Lula’s vision and inspiring leadership.” “We are committed to taking bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in the next five years. Our trade is not just a figure; it’s a reflection of trust.” Also Read: ‘Held Nepal Gen Z-like protest’: Delhi Police tells court on Youth Congress shirtless stir at AI Summit He added that the expansion of the India–MERCOSUR trade agreement would further boost economic cooperation, as Brazil is India’s largest trading partner in Latin America. India, Brazil sign three agreements India and Brazil signed three agreements covering digital cooperation, critical minerals and mining supply chains. PM Modi described the critical minerals agreement as significant amid global supply chain concerns. “The agreement is a major step towards building resilient supply chains,” he said. The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in emerging technology sectors. “I am pleased that we are working on establishing a Centre of Excellence for Digital Public Infrastructure in Brazil. We are also prioritising our cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, supercomputers, semiconductors, and blockchain,” PM Modi said. Also Read: ‘Don’t be a Panican! Trust Trump’: Republicans, aides rally behind president Energy cooperation emerged as a key pillar of the talks, with both sides agreeing to accelerate collaboration in renewable energy and sustainable fuels. “Energy cooperation has been a strong pillar of our relationship. In addition to hydrocarbons, we are also accelerating cooperation in several areas, including renewable energy, ethanol blending, and sustainable aviation fuel,” PM said. He also hailed Brazil’s participation in global climate initiatives like Global Biofuel Alliance. ‘A meeting of digital superpower with renewable energy superpower,’ says Lula President Lula described the meeting as a partnership between two major global powers of the Global South and highlighted the strategic importance of India-Brazil relations. “My dear friend Modi, it is a reason of happiness for me to return to this country for the sixth time. The meeting between India and Brazil is a meeting of superlatives. We are not just the two biggest democracies of the Global South. This is a meeting of a digital superpower with a renewable energy superpower,” Lula said. Also Read: ‘Victory for Americans and US economy’: Democrats rejoice over SCOTUS ruling against Trump’s tariffs He said both countries share common positions on global governance and multilateral cooperation. “A turbulent global scenario requires our countries to strengthen and deepen our strategic dialogue. India and Brazil are crucial voices at the UN, the WTO and G20,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the expansion of the India–MERCOSUR trade agreement would further boost economic cooperation, as Brazil is India’s largest trading partner in Latin America. He added that the two nations aim to take bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in next five years.

Modi and Lula sign rare earths deal, set target of over $20 billion bilateral trade in 5 years

Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Saturday (Feb 21) called on the central government to immediately pause the Indo-US interim trade framework, citing a recent ruling of the US Supreme Court, which struck down Donald Trump's global tariffs. "We demand that in view of the Supreme Court's decision on the tariff, the Modi government should immediately put the Indo-US framework of interim agreement on hold. Use the clause in the joint statement and renegotiate the deal to eliminate liberalisation of imports in agriculture," Ramesh said, speaking to reporters, ANI reported.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, the Congress leader questioned the timing of the India-US trade deal. In a social media post, Ramesh cited remarks made by the US President after the US Supreme Court ruling. "Yesterday after the US Supreme Court struck down his tariffs policy, President Trump declared that (i) Mr. Modi is his great friend; (ii) the India-US trade deal will continue as announced; (iii) he had personally halted Operation Sindoor on May 10 2025 by threatening to increase tariffs on Indian exports to the US if India did not halt Operation Sindoor," Ramesh wrote on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-absolutely-ashamed-of-certain-members-of-court-trump-lashes-out-at-supreme-court-over-tariff-decision-1771612420264">Trump announces new 10% global tariff; says ‘absolutely ashamed’ of US Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;"On Feb 2 2026, President Trump was the first to announce that the India-US trade deal had been finalised, saying that 'out of friendship and respect for Prime Minister Modi and, AS PER HIS REQUEST, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, we agreed to a trade deal between the United States and India." He added. Ramesh asked, "What exactly was the compulsion that made Prime Minister Modi ensure that it was President Trump who announced the India-US trade deal on the night of 2 February 2026 (Indian time)? What happened in the Lok Sabha that afternoon that made PM Modi so anxious that he contacted his ‘good friend’ in the White House and created a distracting situation?"&nbsp;The Congress communication chief accused PM Modi of being "so desperate to protect his delicate image" and suggested that if he had "simply waited another 18 days, Indian farmers could have been spared this pain and crisis, and India’s sovereignty could have remained secure". These remarks from the opposition party came after the US Supreme Court on Friday struck down the tariffs Trump had imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), saying it "does not authorise the President to impose tariffs."&nbsp;On February 2, India and the United States agreed on an interim trade framework, bringing down President Trump's punitive tariffs on Indian exports from 50 per cent to 18 per cent.&nbsp;

Ramesh accused PM Modi of being "so desperate to protect his delicate image" and suggested that if he had "simply waited another 18 days, Indian farmers could have been spared this pain and crisis.

Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Saturday (Feb 21) called on the central government to immediately pause the Indo-US interim trade framework, citing a recent ruling of the US Supreme Court, which struck down Donald Trump's global tariffs. "We demand that in view of the Supreme Court's decision on the tariff, the Modi government should immediately put the Indo-US framework of interim agreement on hold. Use the clause in the joint statement and renegotiate the deal to eliminate liberalisation of imports in agriculture," Ramesh said, speaking to reporters, ANI reported. Earlier in the day, the Congress leader questioned the timing of the India-US trade deal. In a social media post, Ramesh cited remarks made by the US President after the US Supreme Court ruling. "Yesterday after the US Supreme Court struck down his tariffs policy, President Trump declared that (i) Mr. Modi is his great friend; (ii) the India-US trade deal will continue as announced; (iii) he had personally halted Operation Sindoor on May 10 2025 by threatening to increase tariffs on Indian exports to the US if India did not halt Operation Sindoor," Ramesh wrote on X. Also Read: Trump announces new 10% global tariff; says ‘absolutely ashamed’ of US Supreme Court "On Feb 2 2026, President Trump was the first to announce that the India-US trade deal had been finalised, saying that 'out of friendship and respect for Prime Minister Modi and, AS PER HIS REQUEST, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, we agreed to a trade deal between the United States and India." He added. Ramesh asked, "What exactly was the compulsion that made Prime Minister Modi ensure that it was President Trump who announced the India-US trade deal on the night of 2 February 2026 (Indian time)? What happened in the Lok Sabha that afternoon that made PM Modi so anxious that he contacted his ‘good friend’ in the White House and created a distracting situation?" The Congress communication chief accused PM Modi of being "so desperate to protect his delicate image" and suggested that if he had "simply waited another 18 days, Indian farmers could have been spared this pain and crisis, and India’s sovereignty could have remained secure". These remarks from the opposition party came after the US Supreme Court on Friday struck down the tariffs Trump had imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), saying it "does not authorise the President to impose tariffs." On February 2, India and the United States agreed on an interim trade framework, bringing down President Trump's punitive tariffs on Indian exports from 50 per cent to 18 per cent.

Ramesh accused PM Modi of being "so desperate to protect his delicate image" and suggested that if he had "simply waited another 18 days, Indian farmers could have been spared this pain and crisis.

Immediately pause Indo-US interim trade deal, renegotiate terms: Congress

Delhi Police told a court on Saturday that the four Indian Youth Congress (IYC) workers arrested for being part of a shirtless protest at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi on Friday had staged the agitation similar to the ones in the Nepal Gen Z stir and were involved in a conspiracy to defame the country internationally. The accused raised anti-national slogans while protesting against the India-US trade deal and wore T-shirts with messages against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the police told the court.&nbsp;Four Indian Youth Congress workers, namely, Krishna Hari, Kundan Yadav, Ajay Kumar, and Narasimha Yadav, arrested in connection with their protest at the AI Summit at Bharat Mandapam, were brought to the Patiala House Court on Saturday morning. The Delhi Police requested the court to grant their five-day remand.&nbsp;The Delhi Police said that anti-national slogans were raised in the presence of international leaders and prominent figures.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-don-t-be-a-panican-trust-trump-republicans-aides-rally-behind-president-1771613397421">‘Don’t be a Panican! Trust Trump’: Republicans, aides rally behind president</a>&nbsp;“Their custody is necessary to arrest other accused who fled. Three policemen were injured, and their (accused) mobile phones need to be recovered to verify whether they received funding. Four people from four different locations came together and printed T-shirts. Five days’ custody is necessary to investigate the matter,” news agency ANI quoted the police as saying.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the lawyer for the accused submitted that they were being targeted because they belong to the opposition party. The lawyer added that political dissent should not be crushed like this.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-victory-for-americans-and-us-economy-democrats-rejoice-over-scotus-ruling-against-trump-s-tariffs-1771608358859">‘Victory for Americans and US economy’: Democrats rejoice over SCOTUS ruling against Trump’s tariffs</a>&nbsp;Following the protest, Delhi Police initially detained around 10 IYC workers.&nbsp;“The Indian Youth Congress on Friday staged a protest with around 15 people entering the lobby area of Hall No. 5, and raising slogans after removing T-shirts worn under shirts,” ACP (New Delhi), Devesh Mahla, said.&nbsp;“An FIR is being registered, in which several serious charges are being invoked,” another police officer said.&nbsp;The accused allegedly engaged in a protracted scuffle with security personnel and police staff deployed at the venue, officials said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-diversifying-energy-options-will-buy-venezuela-oil-says-us-ambassador-sergio-gor-1771597691150">India ‘diversifying’ energy options, will buy Venezuela oil, says US ambassador Sergio Gor</a>&nbsp;The protesters allegedly registered online to obtain QR codes to enter the venue, the Bharat Mandapam, before staging the protest inside Hall No. 5.&nbsp;The court granted police 5-day custody of the four Youth Congress workers.

The Delhi Police said that anti-national slogans were raised in the presence of international leaders and prominent figures. The lawyer for the accused said they were being targeted because they belong to the opposition party and added that political dissent should not be crushed like this.

Delhi Police told a court on Saturday that the four Indian Youth Congress (IYC) workers arrested for being part of a shirtless protest at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi on Friday had staged the agitation similar to the ones in the Nepal Gen Z stir and were involved in a conspiracy to defame the country internationally. The accused raised anti-national slogans while protesting against the India-US trade deal and wore T-shirts with messages against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the police told the court. Four Indian Youth Congress workers, namely, Krishna Hari, Kundan Yadav, Ajay Kumar, and Narasimha Yadav, arrested in connection with their protest at the AI Summit at Bharat Mandapam, were brought to the Patiala House Court on Saturday morning. The Delhi Police requested the court to grant their five-day remand. The Delhi Police said that anti-national slogans were raised in the presence of international leaders and prominent figures. Also Read: ‘Don’t be a Panican! Trust Trump’: Republicans, aides rally behind president “Their custody is necessary to arrest other accused who fled. Three policemen were injured, and their (accused) mobile phones need to be recovered to verify whether they received funding. Four people from four different locations came together and printed T-shirts. Five days’ custody is necessary to investigate the matter,” news agency ANI quoted the police as saying. Meanwhile, the lawyer for the accused submitted that they were being targeted because they belong to the opposition party. The lawyer added that political dissent should not be crushed like this. Also Read: ‘Victory for Americans and US economy’: Democrats rejoice over SCOTUS ruling against Trump’s tariffs Following the protest, Delhi Police initially detained around 10 IYC workers. “The Indian Youth Congress on Friday staged a protest with around 15 people entering the lobby area of Hall No. 5, and raising slogans after removing T-shirts worn under shirts,” ACP (New Delhi), Devesh Mahla, said. “An FIR is being registered, in which several serious charges are being invoked,” another police officer said. The accused allegedly engaged in a protracted scuffle with security personnel and police staff deployed at the venue, officials said. Also Read: India ‘diversifying’ energy options, will buy Venezuela oil, says US ambassador Sergio Gor The protesters allegedly registered online to obtain QR codes to enter the venue, the Bharat Mandapam, before staging the protest inside Hall No. 5. The court granted police 5-day custody of the four Youth Congress workers.

The Delhi Police said that anti-national slogans were raised in the presence of international leaders and prominent figures. The lawyer for the accused said they were being targeted because they belong to the opposition party and added that political dissent should not be crushed like this.

‘Held Nepal Gen Z-like protest’: Delhi Police tells court on Youth Congress shirtless stir at AI Summit

A surgical instrument known as artery forceps was discovered inside the abdomen of a Kerala woman, five years after she went under surgery at Alappuzha Medical College in Vandanam, relatives of the woman said on Friday. Following the discovery, the woman identified as Usha Joseph was shifted to a private hospital in Kochi on Friday to remove the surgical instrument.&nbsp;Joseph's son, Shibin, told the news agency PTI that she underwent surgery in May 2021 for the removal of her uterine fibroid at the medical college. After the surgery, she was continuously experiencing abdominal pain. "Though she approached doctors at the same hospital multiple times, the cause of the pain was not identified," he alleged. "Recently, Joseph consulted a doctor, suspecting that the pain was due to a kidney stone, who advised an X-ray examination," he added.&nbsp;Shibin confirmed that after the X-ray, an artery forceps was found inside her abdomen, prompting doctors at the medical college to remove it next week. “However, we do not want any further issues and moved to a private hospital. The doctors here will scan and locate the exact position and will perform the surgery soon,” Shibin said.&nbsp;He further stated that the family demanded the removal of the instrument from his mother's body as soon as possible, alleging that doctors at the medical college had said no compensation would be paid for mistakes. “The doctors at the medical college told us that we can lodge a complaint if we want to. We have now decided to file a complaint at the Ambalapuzha police station,” he said.<h3>Alappuzha Medical College responds</h3>In response to the allegation, Dr Lalithambika, a retired surgeon at Alappuzha Medical College, stated that she did not perform the surgery. “The surgery happened just before my retirement, when I was not attending any major cases. As the unit chief, my name was recorded. Also, the surgery happened during the COVID period, and I was engaged with it,” she said, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;She also refused to comment on the allegations of taking money from patients before surgery. “I did not take any money from patients for any surgery. You can ask any patient I attended,” she said, adding that not even a scissor but a mosquito forceps was witnessed in Joseph's body. “It is a magnified view in the X-ray. A mosquito is a small surgical tool used to clamp small blood vessels. No doubt that it should not happen,” she added.&nbsp;She blamed the lapse on systemic shortcomings in a government hospital, explaining that under normal circumstances, a floor nurse records the surgical instruments on a board and ensures they are counted after the operation. However, she noted that government hospitals do not have floor nurses, and this protocol is therefore not followed.&nbsp;Lalithambika added that Joseph had undergone a previous surgery, and it must be examined whether the instrument was left inside his body during that earlier procedure. “This instrument can remain in the body for as long as 20 to 30 years,” she said.&nbsp;Health Minister Veena George said that all officials involved in the surgery who are currently serving in government hospitals will be suspended as part of the investigation. She further stated that a preliminary inquiry has already been conducted and that the findings have been submitted to the Director of Medical Education (DME).&nbsp;&nbsp;“It is a painful incident that should not have happened. Based on the preliminary inquiry report, the DME has formed an expert committee comprising senior doctors to conduct a detailed inquiry into the incident,” she said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-months-after-love-marriage-couple-found-hanging-in-up-s-fatehpur-1771653206272">Five months after love marriage, couple found hanging in UP’s Fatehpur</a>

Joseph's son stated that she underwent surgery in May 2021 for the removal of her uterine fibroid at the medical college. After the surgery, she was continuously experiencing abdominal pain.

A surgical instrument known as artery forceps was discovered inside the abdomen of a Kerala woman, five years after she went under surgery at Alappuzha Medical College in Vandanam, relatives of the woman said on Friday. Following the discovery, the woman identified as Usha Joseph was shifted to a private hospital in Kochi on Friday to remove the surgical instrument. Joseph's son, Shibin, told the news agency PTI that she underwent surgery in May 2021 for the removal of her uterine fibroid at the medical college. After the surgery, she was continuously experiencing abdominal pain. "Though she approached doctors at the same hospital multiple times, the cause of the pain was not identified," he alleged. "Recently, Joseph consulted a doctor, suspecting that the pain was due to a kidney stone, who advised an X-ray examination," he added. Shibin confirmed that after the X-ray, an artery forceps was found inside her abdomen, prompting doctors at the medical college to remove it next week. “However, we do not want any further issues and moved to a private hospital. The doctors here will scan and locate the exact position and will perform the surgery soon,” Shibin said. He further stated that the family demanded the removal of the instrument from his mother's body as soon as possible, alleging that doctors at the medical college had said no compensation would be paid for mistakes. “The doctors at the medical college told us that we can lodge a complaint if we want to. We have now decided to file a complaint at the Ambalapuzha police station,” he said. Alappuzha Medical College responds In response to the allegation, Dr Lalithambika, a retired surgeon at Alappuzha Medical College, stated that she did not perform the surgery. “The surgery happened just before my retirement, when I was not attending any major cases. As the unit chief, my name was recorded. Also, the surgery happened during the COVID period, and I was engaged with it,” she said, news agency PTI reported. She also refused to comment on the allegations of taking money from patients before surgery. “I did not take any money from patients for any surgery. You can ask any patient I attended,” she said, adding that not even a scissor but a mosquito forceps was witnessed in Joseph's body. “It is a magnified view in the X-ray. A mosquito is a small surgical tool used to clamp small blood vessels. No doubt that it should not happen,” she added. She blamed the lapse on systemic shortcomings in a government hospital, explaining that under normal circumstances, a floor nurse records the surgical instruments on a board and ensures they are counted after the operation. However, she noted that government hospitals do not have floor nurses, and this protocol is therefore not followed. Lalithambika added that Joseph had undergone a previous surgery, and it must be examined whether the instrument was left inside his body during that earlier procedure. “This instrument can remain in the body for as long as 20 to 30 years,” she said. Health Minister Veena George said that all officials involved in the surgery who are currently serving in government hospitals will be suspended as part of the investigation. She further stated that a preliminary inquiry has already been conducted and that the findings have been submitted to the Director of Medical Education (DME). “It is a painful incident that should not have happened. Based on the preliminary inquiry report, the DME has formed an expert committee comprising senior doctors to conduct a detailed inquiry into the incident,” she said. Also read: Five months after love marriage, couple found hanging in UP’s Fatehpur

Joseph's son stated that she underwent surgery in May 2021 for the removal of her uterine fibroid at the medical college. After the surgery, she was continuously experiencing abdominal pain.&nbsp;

Surgical instrument found inside Kerala woman 5 years after surgery, Health Minister react

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Saturday held delegation-level talks here in the national capital. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, MoS MEA Pabitra Margherita, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal were among those present during the talks. Earlier, PM Modi and President Lula held discussions at Hyderabad House on Saturday. Earlier today a ceremonial welcome was held on Saturday at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan for Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who is on a state visit to India. President Lula was accorded the Guard of Honour at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Brazilian President was received at the Rashtrapati Bhavan by PM Modi and President Droupadi Murmu. President Lula also met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. He also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. On Friday, President Lula inaugurated the first office of the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex) in New Delhi. Sharing the details in a post on X he said that this would promote Brazilian products and services abroad and to attract foreign investments to strategic sectors of the Brazilian economy. Brazil's envoy to India, Kenneth da Nobrega, on Friday spoke to ANI about the growing rapport between President Lula and PM Modi, and said, "This is taking the bilateral relations historically to a new level. There is a very good chemistry. I think they are not only colleagues, but they have become more and more friends. That's a fact." The Brazilian envoy to India said, "President Lula has come to India with the largest ever delegation, with more than 11 cabinet ministers, more than 300 businessmen, among them 50 CEOs. This is taking the bilateral relations historically to a new level." Lula's visit to India follows a July 2025 visit to Brasilia by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the first by an Indian prime minister in more than 50 years. The Brazilian President has arrived in India with large delegation of top CEOs of Brazilian companies. The CEOs are expected to participate in a Business Forum.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva held delegation level talks in New Delhi, marking a key moment in India Brazil ties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Saturday held delegation-level talks here in the national capital. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, MoS MEA Pabitra Margherita, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal were among those present during the talks. Earlier, PM Modi and President Lula held discussions at Hyderabad House on Saturday. Earlier today a ceremonial welcome was held on Saturday at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan for Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who is on a state visit to India. President Lula was accorded the Guard of Honour at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Brazilian President was received at the Rashtrapati Bhavan by PM Modi and President Droupadi Murmu. President Lula also met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. He also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. On Friday, President Lula inaugurated the first office of the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex) in New Delhi. Sharing the details in a post on X he said that this would promote Brazilian products and services abroad and to attract foreign investments to strategic sectors of the Brazilian economy. Brazil's envoy to India, Kenneth da Nobrega, on Friday spoke to ANI about the growing rapport between President Lula and PM Modi, and said, "This is taking the bilateral relations historically to a new level. There is a very good chemistry. I think they are not only colleagues, but they have become more and more friends. That's a fact." The Brazilian envoy to India said, "President Lula has come to India with the largest ever delegation, with more than 11 cabinet ministers, more than 300 businessmen, among them 50 CEOs. This is taking the bilateral relations historically to a new level." Lula's visit to India follows a July 2025 visit to Brasilia by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the first by an Indian prime minister in more than 50 years. The Brazilian President has arrived in India with large delegation of top CEOs of Brazilian companies. The CEOs are expected to participate in a Business Forum.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva held delegation level talks in New Delhi, marking a key moment in India Brazil ties.

Indian PM Modi and Brazil President Lula hold delegation talks in New Delhi

An intelligence alert has been issued in Delhi after a warning of a possible terror threat near the Red Fort, with reports suggesting terrorists may target a temple in the Chandni Chowk area. The intelligence inputs indicated that key religious places, including those near the Red Fort and parts of Chandini Chowk, are on the target list of Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).According to an ANI report, citing intelligence sources, the group may be plotting an improvised explosive device (IED) attack on a temple in the Chandni Chowk. The report further added that the outfit is seeking revenge following a blast in an Islamabad mosque on February 6 and may be planning a major attack in India.“Blast alert in front of the Red Fort in Delhi. Terrorists may target a temple in Chandni Chowk. Lashkar-e-Taiba is plotting an IED attack. They are planning a major terrorist attack in India to avenge the February 6th mosque blast in Islamabad, Pakistan. Major temples in the country can be targeted by Lashkar-e-Taiba,” Intelligence sources said, as quoted by ANI. Sources further said that prominent temples in the country can be targeted by Lashkar-e-Taiba, suggesting that places of worship remain on the terror group’s radar.The development comes months after a deadly car explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10 last year, which killed 12 people. The blast happened near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station around 6:52 pm. The explosion resulted in fire in several other vehicles. The intensity of the blast shattered the window panes of vehicles parked some distance away.On February 13, a Special NIA court at Patiala House Court extended the investigation period, giving 45 more days to conclude the probe into the Delhi blast case. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) sought a 90-day extension to complete the investigation. Meanwhile, the court also extended the judicial custody of the 7 accused till March 13.

Delhi issued a terror alert over a possible LeT IED plot targeting a temple near Red Fort and Chandni Chowk. Security threat comes months after a deadly blast that killed 12.

An intelligence alert has been issued in Delhi after a warning of a possible terror threat near the Red Fort, with reports suggesting terrorists may target a temple in the Chandni Chowk area. The intelligence inputs indicated that key religious places, including those near the Red Fort and parts of Chandini Chowk, are on the target list of Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). According to an ANI report, citing intelligence sources, the group may be plotting an improvised explosive device (IED) attack on a temple in the Chandni Chowk. The report further added that the outfit is seeking revenge following a blast in an Islamabad mosque on February 6 and may be planning a major attack in India. “Blast alert in front of the Red Fort in Delhi. Terrorists may target a temple in Chandni Chowk. Lashkar-e-Taiba is plotting an IED attack. They are planning a major terrorist attack in India to avenge the February 6th mosque blast in Islamabad, Pakistan. Major temples in the country can be targeted by Lashkar-e-Taiba,” Intelligence sources said, as quoted by ANI. Sources further said that prominent temples in the country can be targeted by Lashkar-e-Taiba, suggesting that places of worship remain on the terror group’s radar. The development comes months after a deadly car explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10 last year, which killed 12 people. The blast happened near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station around 6:52 pm. The explosion resulted in fire in several other vehicles. The intensity of the blast shattered the window panes of vehicles parked some distance away. On February 13, a Special NIA court at Patiala House Court extended the investigation period, giving 45 more days to conclude the probe into the Delhi blast case. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) sought a 90-day extension to complete the investigation. Meanwhile, the court also extended the judicial custody of the 7 accused till March 13.

Delhi issued a terror alert over a possible LeT IED plot targeting a temple near Red Fort and Chandni Chowk. Security threat comes months after a deadly blast that killed 12.

Lashkar-e-Taiba plotting IED attack in Delhi? Intel warns temples near Red Fort on target

A couple who had entered into a love marriage about five months ago were found hanging at their residence in the Fatehpur district of Uttar Pradesh. Following the incident, police suspected that both of them died by suicide within a short span of time, officials said on Friday.&nbsp;Police said the identified deceased, Amarjeet Kushwaha (30), a resident of Jafrabad village in the Bindki area, was discovered hanging in the bathroom of his rented house early on Thursday. His wife, Rekha Sonkar (25), informed the police after finding his body.&nbsp;However, before officers arrived at the scene, Rekha allegedly took her own life by hanging herself from an iron rod inside another room of the house. When police broke open the bathroom door and retrieved Amarjeet’s body, they found Rekha hanging elsewhere in the residence. She was immediately brought down, but was declared dead.&nbsp;Both of their deceased body have been sent for post-mortem, where a forensics team inspected the scene and collected evidence, Station House Officer (Bindki) Hemant Kumar Mishra said, news agency PTI reported.<h3>Families reportedly cut off all contact</h3>The SHO confirmed that the couple had been in a relationship for several months, against the wishes of their families. Later, they had solemnised their marriage about five months ago after running away secretly.&nbsp;After the marriage of Amarjeet and Rekha, both families reportedly cut off all contact with them. The pair initially stayed in Kanpur for a short period before returning to Bindki in January, where they took a rented house on Lalauli Road.&nbsp;Police said that in September 2024, when the man’s marriage was being planned with someone else, the woman had approached the police, prompting intervention and talks between the two families. However, neither side agreed to accept their relationship. The station house officer said statements from family members and neighbours are being recorded, and further action will depend on the outcome of the investigation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hang-in-there-punch-rejected-baby-monkey-carries-plushie-everywhere-internet-rallies-behind-him-this-is-his-story-1771568748975">Meet internet's new sweetheart: Punch, baby monkey who carries a plushie everywhere. THIS is his story</a>

Police said the identified deceased, Amarjeet Kushwaha (30), a resident of Jafrabad village in the Bindki area, was discovered hanging in the bathroom of his rented house early on Thursday. 

A couple who had entered into a love marriage about five months ago were found hanging at their residence in the Fatehpur district of Uttar Pradesh. Following the incident, police suspected that both of them died by suicide within a short span of time, officials said on Friday. Police said the identified deceased, Amarjeet Kushwaha (30), a resident of Jafrabad village in the Bindki area, was discovered hanging in the bathroom of his rented house early on Thursday. His wife, Rekha Sonkar (25), informed the police after finding his body. However, before officers arrived at the scene, Rekha allegedly took her own life by hanging herself from an iron rod inside another room of the house. When police broke open the bathroom door and retrieved Amarjeet’s body, they found Rekha hanging elsewhere in the residence. She was immediately brought down, but was declared dead. Both of their deceased body have been sent for post-mortem, where a forensics team inspected the scene and collected evidence, Station House Officer (Bindki) Hemant Kumar Mishra said, news agency PTI reported. Families reportedly cut off all contact The SHO confirmed that the couple had been in a relationship for several months, against the wishes of their families. Later, they had solemnised their marriage about five months ago after running away secretly. After the marriage of Amarjeet and Rekha, both families reportedly cut off all contact with them. The pair initially stayed in Kanpur for a short period before returning to Bindki in January, where they took a rented house on Lalauli Road. Police said that in September 2024, when the man’s marriage was being planned with someone else, the woman had approached the police, prompting intervention and talks between the two families. However, neither side agreed to accept their relationship. The station house officer said statements from family members and neighbours are being recorded, and further action will depend on the outcome of the investigation. Also read: Meet internet's new sweetheart: Punch, baby monkey who carries a plushie everywhere. THIS is his story

Police said the identified deceased, Amarjeet Kushwaha (30), a resident of Jafrabad village in the Bindki area, was discovered hanging in the bathroom of his rented house early on Thursday.&nbsp;

Five months after love marriage, couple found hanging in UP’s Fatehpur

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 20) said India will continue to face 18 per cent tariffs, even after the Supreme Court struck down sweeping reciprocal tariffs. The remarks came days after the court, in a 6-3 decision, ruled that Trump's sweeping duties on imports from nearly all trading partners violated federal law. The judges held that he lacked the authority under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose such wide-ranging tariffs.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-neal-katyal-all-about-the-indian-origin-lawyer-who-led-legal-challenge-against-trump-tariffs-at-scotus-1771641242108">Who is Neal Katyal? Indian-origin lawyer behind SCOTUS ruling on Trump tariffs</a><h2>What happens to 18% India tariffs?</h2>Trump was blunt when asked about the impact on the India deal. "Nothing changes," he said in response to ANI. The trade arrangement, he added, remains intact and is expected to be signed by the end of March.Under the interim US-India trade deal framework announced earlier this month, Washington reduced proposed tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from an earlier 50 per cent. In return, New Delhi agreed to eliminate tariffs on US goods."Nothing changes. They'll be paying tariffs, and we will not be paying tariffs. This is a reversal of what used to be," Trump said, calling it a "fair deal". He also described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "a great gentleman a great man" and said the agreement marked a reversal of past trade terms."In terms of the US, He was ripping us off. So we made a deal with India. A fair deal now. We are not paying tariffs to them, and they are. We did a little flip," said Trump.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trump-suffers-first-major-blow-to-his-economic-and-diplomatic-policy-opinion-1771637528141">Donald Trump suffers first major blow to his economic and diplomatic policy</a><h2>What the US-India trade deal covers</h2>India has agreed to cut or remove duties on US industrial goods and a range of farm products. These include dried distillers’ grains, red sorghum, tree nuts, fruits, soybean oil, wine and spirits.The US, on its part, will apply the 18 per cent tariff to Indian exports such as textiles, leather goods, footwear, chemicals, plastics, home decor and certain machinery.Notably, while the two nations announced the framework, the deal is yet to be signed. Officials from both countries are set to meet in the US on February 23 for three days to finalise the legal text. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently said the agreement is likely to take effect in April.&nbsp;

Will India still face 18 per cent US tariffs even after the Supreme Court struck down Donald Trump’s sweeping reciprocal duties? President Trump says “nothing changes” under the interim trade deal.

Scroll down to find out what happens next.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 20) said India will continue to face 18 per cent tariffs, even after the Supreme Court struck down sweeping reciprocal tariffs. The remarks came days after the court, in a 6-3 decision, ruled that Trump's sweeping duties on imports from nearly all trading partners violated federal law. The judges held that he lacked the authority under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose such wide-ranging tariffs. Also read | Who is Neal Katyal? Indian-origin lawyer behind SCOTUS ruling on Trump tariffs What happens to 18% India tariffs? Trump was blunt when asked about the impact on the India deal. "Nothing changes," he said in response to ANI. The trade arrangement, he added, remains intact and is expected to be signed by the end of March. Under the interim US-India trade deal framework announced earlier this month, Washington reduced proposed tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from an earlier 50 per cent. In return, New Delhi agreed to eliminate tariffs on US goods. "Nothing changes. They'll be paying tariffs, and we will not be paying tariffs. This is a reversal of what used to be," Trump said, calling it a "fair deal". He also described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "a great gentleman a great man" and said the agreement marked a reversal of past trade terms. "In terms of the US, He was ripping us off. So we made a deal with India. A fair deal now. We are not paying tariffs to them, and they are. We did a little flip," said Trump. Also read | Donald Trump suffers first major blow to his economic and diplomatic policy What the US-India trade deal covers India has agreed to cut or remove duties on US industrial goods and a range of farm products. These include dried distillers’ grains, red sorghum, tree nuts, fruits, soybean oil, wine and spirits. The US, on its part, will apply the 18 per cent tariff to Indian exports such as textiles, leather goods, footwear, chemicals, plastics, home decor and certain machinery. Notably, while the two nations announced the framework, the deal is yet to be signed. Officials from both countries are set to meet in the US on February 23 for three days to finalise the legal text. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently said the agreement is likely to take effect in April.

Will India still face 18 per cent US tariffs even after the Supreme Court struck down Donald Trump’s sweeping reciprocal duties? President Trump says “nothing changes” under the interim trade deal.Scroll down to find out what happens next.

Will India still pay 18% tariffs after SCOTUS scraps Trump reciprocal duties? Here’s what the POTUS said

Neal Katyal, the son of Indian immigrants, who once served as a top advocate of America's top courtroom, has emerged as the face of the landmark Supreme Court judgement that struck down US President Donald Trump's sweeping global tariffs. The SCOTUS's Friday (Feb 20) decision represented a major blow to Trump in his second term. It stripped away a powerful tool he had aggressively utilised to reshape American trade pacts, collect substantial sums from US companies importing foreign goods, and intervene in the domestic matters of countries whose leaders did not comply with his directives. Who is Neal Katyal? All you need to know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trump-suffers-first-major-blow-to-his-economic-and-diplomatic-policy-opinion-1771637528141">Donald Trump suffers first major blow to his economic and diplomatic policy</a><h2>Son of immigrants able to say ‘president is acting illegally’</h2>Katyal, a former Acting Solicitor General of the United States, argued against Trump's use of the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose what he described as "unjust, unconstitutional taxes"."The US Supreme Court gave us everything we asked for in our legal case. Everything," said Katyal after the ruling. "This case has always been about the presidency, not any one president. It has always been about the separation of powers, and not the politics of the moment," he added.“I was able to go to court -- the son of immigrants -- and say on behalf of American small businesses, 'Hey, this president is acting illegally.' I was able to present my case, have them ask really hard questions, and at the end of it, they voted and we won. That is something extraordinary about this country,” Neal Katyal told MS Now.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Neal Katyal: &quot;I was able to go to court -- the son of immigrants -- and say on behalf of American small businesses, &#39;Hey, this president is acting illegally.&#39; I was able to present my case, have them ask really hard questions, and at the end of it they voted and we won. That is… <a href="https://t.co/FhCtgOgyMx">pic.twitter.com/FhCtgOgyMx</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/2024955825916162140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The administration had framed the tariffs as necessary to address trade deficits and the fentanyl crisis, calling them matters of national emergency. Katyal countered that the move amounted to unlawful taxation without congressional approval. "Presidents are powerful, but our Constitution is more powerful still," Katyal said after the ruling. "In America, only Congress can impose taxes on the American people."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/royal-shock-uk-weighs-removing-andrew-mountbatten-windsor-from-line-of-succession-for-british-throne-over-epstein-links-1771637027122">UK weighs removing Andrew from British throne line of succession over Epstein links</a><h2>Who is Neal Katyal?</h2>Born in Chicago to Indian immigrant parents, a doctor and an engineer, Katyal has spent much of his career at the centre of major constitutional disputes. He graduated from Dartmouth College and Yale Law School and clerked for Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer.In 2010, President Barack Obama appointed him Acting Solicitor General, making him the federal government’s top courtroom advocate. Over the years, Katyal has argued more than 50 cases before the Supreme Court, earning recognition as one of the most prominent appellate lawyers in the country.He is currently a partner at Milbank LLP and a professor at Georgetown University Law Center. His past work includes defending the Voting Rights Act, challenging Trump’s 2017 travel ban, and serving as a special prosecutor in Minnesota in the George Floyd case.

Who is Neal Katyal? The Indian origin former US Acting Solicitor General led the Supreme Court challenge that struck down President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs. Here's all you need to know about him.

Neal Katyal, the son of Indian immigrants, who once served as a top advocate of America's top courtroom, has emerged as the face of the landmark Supreme Court judgement that struck down US President Donald Trump's sweeping global tariffs. The SCOTUS's Friday (Feb 20) decision represented a major blow to Trump in his second term. It stripped away a powerful tool he had aggressively utilised to reshape American trade pacts, collect substantial sums from US companies importing foreign goods, and intervene in the domestic matters of countries whose leaders did not comply with his directives. Who is Neal Katyal? All you need to know. Also read | Donald Trump suffers first major blow to his economic and diplomatic policy Son of immigrants able to say ‘president is acting illegally’ Katyal, a former Acting Solicitor General of the United States, argued against Trump's use of the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose what he described as "unjust, unconstitutional taxes". "The US Supreme Court gave us everything we asked for in our legal case. Everything," said Katyal after the ruling. "This case has always been about the presidency, not any one president. It has always been about the separation of powers, and not the politics of the moment," he added. “I was able to go to court -- the son of immigrants -- and say on behalf of American small businesses, 'Hey, this president is acting illegally.' I was able to present my case, have them ask really hard questions, and at the end of it, they voted and we won. That is something extraordinary about this country,” Neal Katyal told MS Now.

Who is Neal Katyal? The Indian origin former US Acting Solicitor General led the Supreme Court challenge that struck down President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs. Here's all you need to know about him.

Who is Neal Katyal? All about the Indian-origin lawyer who led legal challenge against Trump tariffs at SCOTUS

At least 75 countries are going to sign the 'Delhi Declaration', said to be a non-binding pledge or declaration on goals for AI development, after the AI Summit 2026. Meanwhile, the Indian government on Thursday (Feb 19) announced New Delhi Frontier AI Commitments. Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw described them as a crucial outcome of the India AI Impact Summit 2026 and a shared voluntary framework adopted by leading global and Indian AI companies.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-to-attack-iran-soon-from-usss-abraham-lincoln-to-gerald-ford-us-deploys-these-warships-are-heading-towards-middle-east-nuclear-deal-1771605910151">Trump to attack Iran soon? From USS Abraham Lincoln to Gerald Ford US deploys - these warships are heading towards Middle East</a>&nbsp;Vaishnaw called it a “significant outcome" of the summit and added that “Today, leading frontier AI companies, along with our own AI companies, have come together to make a set of voluntary commitments a shared commitment for inclusive and shared AI.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-apex-court-strikes-down-swath-of-trump-s-tariffs-but-president-says-he-has-backup-plan-here-are-his-options-1771602994991">US apex court strikes down swath of Trump’s tariffs, but president says he has a ‘backup plan’. Here are his options</a>&nbsp;India hosted the grand Artificial Intelligence Summit (India AI Impact Summit 2026) from February 16 to 21 at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The summit brought heads of state, senior officials and tech executives under one roof. The summit was intended to highlight the increasing global significance of the technology.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-a-claim-to-overshadow-epstein-files-russia-demands-concrete-data-on-alexei-navalny-poisoning-allegation-putin-1771428712351">‘A claim to overshadow Epstein Files’: Russia demands ‘concrete data’ on Alexei Navalny poisoning allegation</a>&nbsp;In another development related to the AI Summit, India on Friday formally joined Pax Silica, the United States' flagship effort on AI (Artificial Intelligence) and supply chain security, advancing a new economic security consensus among allies and trusted partners.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/all-about-strait-of-hormuz-the-only-marine-entryway-into-gulf-and-why-it-s-at-the-centre-of-us-iran-nuke-tensions-1771344725283">All about Strait of Hormuz, the only marine entryway into Gulf and why it's at the centre of US-Iran nuke tensions</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Seventy-five countries will sign the Delhi Declaration on inclusive AI development after India’s AI Summit 2026, which also unveiled Frontier AI Commitments and saw India join the US-led Pax Silica initiative.

At least 75 countries are going to sign the 'Delhi Declaration', said to be a non-binding pledge or declaration on goals for AI development, after the AI Summit 2026. Meanwhile, the Indian government on Thursday (Feb 19) announced New Delhi Frontier AI Commitments. Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw described them as a crucial outcome of the India AI Impact Summit 2026 and a shared voluntary framework adopted by leading global and Indian AI companies. Also read: Trump to attack Iran soon? From USS Abraham Lincoln to Gerald Ford US deploys - these warships are heading towards Middle East Vaishnaw called it a “significant outcome" of the summit and added that “Today, leading frontier AI companies, along with our own AI companies, have come together to make a set of voluntary commitments a shared commitment for inclusive and shared AI.” Also read: US apex court strikes down swath of Trump’s tariffs, but president says he has a ‘backup plan’. Here are his options India hosted the grand Artificial Intelligence Summit (India AI Impact Summit 2026) from February 16 to 21 at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The summit brought heads of state, senior officials and tech executives under one roof. The summit was intended to highlight the increasing global significance of the technology. Also read: ‘A claim to overshadow Epstein Files’: Russia demands ‘concrete data’ on Alexei Navalny poisoning allegation In another development related to the AI Summit, India on Friday formally joined Pax Silica, the United States' flagship effort on AI (Artificial Intelligence) and supply chain security, advancing a new economic security consensus among allies and trusted partners. Also read: All about Strait of Hormuz, the only marine entryway into Gulf and why it's at the centre of US-Iran nuke tensions

Seventy-five countries will sign the Delhi Declaration on inclusive AI development after India’s AI Summit 2026, which also unveiled Frontier AI Commitments and saw India join the US-led Pax Silica initiative.

Delhi AI Summit: 75 countries to sign 'Delhi Declaration' for AI development

Stopping a man from smoking at a petrol pump resulted in a life-threatening situation for the staff. Police arrested two men after they allegedly tried to set a motorcycle on fire at a fuel station. A major mishap was averted due to swift action in extinguishing the flames, CCTV footage of the incident shows. The accused, two young men,&nbsp; arrived at the Sangita Fuels petrol pump near Karma Chowk in the Urla area to refuel their two-wheeler. As the petrol pump staffer began filling the tank, the pillion rider stepped down and tried to light a cigarette.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Man lights fire at petrol pump in Raipur. Staff rush to stop disaster... 🚨 CCTV footage shows a man setting fire near a petrol pump nozzle at Sangeeta Fuels, Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Staff acted fast to prevent disaster. Both accused arrested. <a href="https://t.co/3r6ey6uFtU">pic.twitter.com/3r6ey6uFtU</a>&mdash; contentkikamii (@contentkikamii) <a href="https://twitter.com/contentkikamii/status/2024697054656942136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

When the fuel station staffer asked him not to smoke, he reacted strongly and threw the lighter toward the fuel area, triggering a fire. The bike, as well as the petrol pump’s nozzle, caught fire immediately. Both the men and the petrol pump employee rushed away to save themselves. However, reacting swiftly, another fuel station employee pulled the hose away and turned off the main fuel supply. He then used a fire extinguisher to control the flames.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-strikes-down-donald-trump-s-global-tariffs-1771601310479">US Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's global tariffs</a>&nbsp;Based on CCTV evidence, the accused were identified as Dharmendra Singh of Birgaon, Urla, and Imran Quraishi of AHP Colony. After the fire came under control, both men tried to flee, but the pump staff caught them and called the police, leading to their arrest. Police confiscated their motorcycle and registered a case under several sections of the BNS. Urla inspector Rohit Mahelkar said a case has been registered under sections related to arson and endangering public safety. The investigation is underway.

Police confiscated their motorcycle and registered a case under several sections of the BNS. Urla

Stopping a man from smoking at a petrol pump resulted in a life-threatening situation for the staff. Police arrested two men after they allegedly tried to set a motorcycle on fire at a fuel station. A major mishap was averted due to swift action in extinguishing the flames, CCTV footage of the incident shows. The accused, two young men, arrived at the Sangita Fuels petrol pump near Karma Chowk in the Urla area to refuel their two-wheeler. As the petrol pump staffer began filling the tank, the pillion rider stepped down and tried to light a cigarette.

Police confiscated their motorcycle and registered a case under several sections of the BNS. Urla

Video | Stopped from smoking, man hurls lighter into fuel tank at Raipur petrol pump

The second edition of the Indo-Nepal Trade Festival opened in New Delhi on Friday, aiming to deepen economic ties, boost tourism and cultural exchanges between the two close neighbours. Held from 20-22 February at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry building in Hauz Khas, the event is organised by the Everest Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ECCI), an umbrella body of Nepali entrepreneurs in India, in partnership with the Embassy of Nepal, the Nepal Tourism Board and the Trade and Export Promotion Centre.&nbsp;The festival, under the theme “Connecting People, Enhancing Bilateral Trade”, was inaugurated by Nepal's Ambassador to India, Shankar Prasad&nbsp;Sharma, and Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary in India's Ministry of External Affairs (North Division).&nbsp;Building on its inaugural edition, this year's gathering features more than ten high-level sessions and policy dialogues involving over 60 experts from both countries.Discussions will cover key areas including hydropower and energy cooperation, cross-border trade and connectivity, tourism integration along the Ramayana and Buddhist Circuits, banking, fintech and digital economy collaboration, media and cultural diplomacy, youth engagement, education, innovation, the startup ecosystem, and a broader “Vision 2030” for Indo-Nepal cooperation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-strikes-down-donald-trump-s-global-tariffs-1771601310479">US Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's global tariffs</a>

Business networking, B2B, and B2G meetings will bring together policymakers, ministers, diplomats, industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities for shared growth and sustainable regional development.&nbsp;Alongside policy and commerce, the festival showcases Nepal's cultural heritage through musical performances, film screenings, including the documentary 'Gurkha Warriors' on day one, traditional arts and authentic Nepali cuisine.&nbsp;Speaking at a press conference at the Press Club of India on Tuesday, ECCI President Yubaraj Baral described the event as a “transformative platform”.&nbsp;“The festival will further support the expansion of investment opportunities, foster meaningful partnerships across various sectors between Nepal and India, and deepen the historic friendship between the two nations,” Mr Baral said. “This landmark bilateral event will further reinforce India-Nepal economic diplomacy and promote long-term regional cooperation.”&nbsp;Organisers say the initiative addresses the need to expand trade and reduce imbalances, while promoting people-to-people contacts rooted in shared history, open borders and cultural affinities. The three-day event is expected to serve as a key platform for advancing bilateral economic diplomacy amid ongoing efforts to strengthen connectivity and mutual prosperity.

Business networking, B2B, and B2G meetings will bring together policymakers, ministers, diplomats, industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities for shared growth and sustainable regional development.

The second edition of the Indo-Nepal Trade Festival opened in New Delhi on Friday, aiming to deepen economic ties, boost tourism and cultural exchanges between the two close neighbours. Held from 20-22 February at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry building in Hauz Khas, the event is organised by the Everest Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ECCI), an umbrella body of Nepali entrepreneurs in India, in partnership with the Embassy of Nepal, the Nepal Tourism Board and the Trade and Export Promotion Centre. The festival, under the theme “Connecting People, Enhancing Bilateral Trade”, was inaugurated by Nepal's Ambassador to India, Shankar Prasad Sharma, and Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary in India's Ministry of External Affairs (North Division). Building on its inaugural edition, this year's gathering features more than ten high-level sessions and policy dialogues involving over 60 experts from both countries. Discussions will cover key areas including hydropower and energy cooperation, cross-border trade and connectivity, tourism integration along the Ramayana and Buddhist Circuits, banking, fintech and digital economy collaboration, media and cultural diplomacy, youth engagement, education, innovation, the startup ecosystem, and a broader “Vision 2030” for Indo-Nepal cooperation. Also Read: US Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's global tariffs

Business networking, B2B, and B2G meetings will bring together policymakers, ministers, diplomats, industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities for shared growth and sustainable regional development.

Delhi hosts Indo-Nepal Trade Festival to boost trade, tourism and cultural links

Austria's State Secretary for Digitalisation and e-Governance, Alexander Pröll, has expressed strong optimism about deepening ties with India, following his attendance at the AI Impact Summit hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking to the media in Delhi, Mr Pröll highlighted the productive discussions on leveraging artificial intelligence for public services. "I visited the AI impact summit hosted by Prime Minister Modi, and we had very good conversations on how we can use AI in public service for the people," he said. "And I think we are on a good way to cooperate. And what's most important for me is a good bilateral relationship between India and Austria."&nbsp;Mr Pröll, who was sworn in as State Secretary at the Austrian Federal Chancellery on 3 March 2025, leads efforts in digital transformation, technological innovation, and public sector modernisation. His responsibilities include coordinating national digital initiatives, advancing digital identity frameworks, and promoting responsible use of emerging technologies.&nbsp;The Austrian official also praised Prime Minister Modi personally. "PM Modi is a visionary. He's a very good guy, and we love him so much in Austria, and it was amazing to see him, to visit him at the AI Impact Summit," he added. Mr Pröll extended an invitation to Indian talent, emphasising educational collaboration. "We're inviting all skilled students from India to come to Austria, to Vienna, to visit our perfect technical universities. And we want to work together with academia, with businesses and with the Government of India," he stated.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-strikes-down-donald-trump-s-global-tariffs-1771601310479">US Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's global tariffs</a>&nbsp;On the economic front, he welcomed the recent landmark free trade agreement between the European Union and India, concluded in January 2026 after nearly two decades of negotiations. Describing it as a major milestone, he said: "The free trade agreement concluded between the European Union and Austria, and, of course, India. It's the mother of all deals. What we see is that it's a win-win situation between India and the European Union. We are working closely together, and I think that's the right way to go. About 25% of the GDP is working with the free trade agreement, and what we see is a win-win situation. Economic growth is happening."&nbsp;The agreement, often called the "mother of all deals," is projected to boost trade significantly, covering a combined population of around two billion people and nearly a quarter of global GDP, with tariff reductions on the vast majority of goods.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mr Pröll's comments come amid Austria's active role in European digital policy. In 2025, he spearheaded a continent-wide initiative resulting in all 27 EU Member States signing a declaration on digital sovereignty at a Berlin summit in November. The non-binding declaration commits to reducing strategic dependencies, enhancing technological capabilities, and fostering an open yet resilient digital ecosystem.

The agreement, often called the "mother of all deals," is projected to boost trade significantly, covering a combined population of around two billion people and nearly a quarter of global GDP, with tariff reductions on the vast majority of goods. 

Austria's State Secretary for Digitalisation and e-Governance, Alexander Pröll, has expressed strong optimism about deepening ties with India, following his attendance at the AI Impact Summit hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Speaking to the media in Delhi, Mr Pröll highlighted the productive discussions on leveraging artificial intelligence for public services. "I visited the AI impact summit hosted by Prime Minister Modi, and we had very good conversations on how we can use AI in public service for the people," he said. "And I think we are on a good way to cooperate. And what's most important for me is a good bilateral relationship between India and Austria." Mr Pröll, who was sworn in as State Secretary at the Austrian Federal Chancellery on 3 March 2025, leads efforts in digital transformation, technological innovation, and public sector modernisation. His responsibilities include coordinating national digital initiatives, advancing digital identity frameworks, and promoting responsible use of emerging technologies. The Austrian official also praised Prime Minister Modi personally. "PM Modi is a visionary. He's a very good guy, and we love him so much in Austria, and it was amazing to see him, to visit him at the AI Impact Summit," he added. Mr Pröll extended an invitation to Indian talent, emphasising educational collaboration. "We're inviting all skilled students from India to come to Austria, to Vienna, to visit our perfect technical universities. And we want to work together with academia, with businesses and with the Government of India," he stated. Also Read: US Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's global tariffs On the economic front, he welcomed the recent landmark free trade agreement between the European Union and India, concluded in January 2026 after nearly two decades of negotiations. Describing it as a major milestone, he said: "The free trade agreement concluded between the European Union and Austria, and, of course, India. It's the mother of all deals. What we see is that it's a win-win situation between India and the European Union. We are working closely together, and I think that's the right way to go. About 25% of the GDP is working with the free trade agreement, and what we see is a win-win situation. Economic growth is happening." The agreement, often called the "mother of all deals," is projected to boost trade significantly, covering a combined population of around two billion people and nearly a quarter of global GDP, with tariff reductions on the vast majority of goods. Mr Pröll's comments come amid Austria's active role in European digital policy. In 2025, he spearheaded a continent-wide initiative resulting in all 27 EU Member States signing a declaration on digital sovereignty at a Berlin summit in November. The non-binding declaration commits to reducing strategic dependencies, enhancing technological capabilities, and fostering an open yet resilient digital ecosystem.

The agreement, often called the "mother of all deals," is projected to boost trade significantly, covering a combined population of around two billion people and nearly a quarter of global GDP, with tariff reductions on the vast majority of goods.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Austria hails 'mother of all deals' as EU-India trade pact boosts economic ties

US ambassador Sergio Gor said on Friday that the United States is in “active negotiation” over the sale of Venezuelan oil to India to help Delhi diversify its sources of crude oil. Gor added that India has made a commitment with the US regarding Russian oil purchases as part of a trade deal, and expressed confidence that the interim trade agreement will be signed by the two sides “very soon”.&nbsp;&nbsp;“On the oil, there’s an agreement. I also don’t want to be giving out too much, in the sense that what private conversations happened...between the two leaders. We have seen India diversify its oil. There is a commitment,” Gor told reporters after the Indian side joined the US-led Pax Silica initiative on the margins of the AI Impact Summit.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-govt-asks-court-to-block-sensitive-info-in-nijjar-case-as-it-may-harm-international-relations-1771588403457">Canadian govt asks court to block sensitive info in Nijjar case as it may harm international relations</a>&nbsp;Gor reiterated the message from Washington about New Delhi making a commitment on Russian energy purchases since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump reached an understanding on the trade deal in a phone call on February 2.The Indian side has neither confirmed nor denied that it will stop Russian oil imports and has maintained that it will maintain multiple sources of energy, with national interest guiding all purchases.&nbsp;<h2>‘Not just about India. The US doesn’t want anyone buying Russia’</h2>&nbsp;“This is not about India. The US doesn’t want anyone buying Russia. The President has been very clear on this – he wants to end this [Russia-Ukraine] war. So anyone who is, in a way, still involved with that conflict is something that the president wants to see come to an end in hopes of peace coming with that,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-contribute-10-billion-to-board-of-peace-others-have-pledged-7-billion-announces-trump-1771526027108">US will contribute $10 billion to Board of Peace, others have pledged $7 billion, announces Trump</a>&nbsp;Replying to a question on India possibly buying Venezuelan oil, Gor said he did not want to get into details. “Some of that aspect has not been announced yet, but there are active negotiations, the [US] Department of Energy is speaking to the Ministry of Energy here, and so we’re hoping to have some news on that very soon,” he said.&nbsp;The US had pitched the sale of Venezuelan oil to India to help replace Russian oil imports.India’s state-run Indian Oil Corp, Hindustan Petroleum, and Bharat Petroleum, as well as private-sector refiners Reliance Industries and HPCL-Mittal Energy, have ordered Venezuelan oil, said a Reuters report.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-chief-calls-for-urgent-us-iran-deal-warns-nuclear-material-still-there-in-large-quantities-1771521937555">IAEA chief calls for urgent US-Iran deal, warns nuclear material ‘still there, in large quantities’</a><h2>‘India and the US to ink trade deal soon’</h2>&nbsp;Gor said Indian and US officials are continuing negotiations to finalise the interim trade agreement and the deal could be sealed soon.&nbsp;“The signing [of the trade deal] will happen very soon. Even this week, we have both teams talking to each other and actively getting to a place where both will be able to sign,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-unfortunate-blame-game-supreme-court-tells-calcutta-hc-to-appoint-judicial-officers-for-bengal-sir-1771584030855">‘Unfortunate blame game’: Supreme Court tells Calcutta HC to appoint judicial officers for Bengal SIR</a>&nbsp;He said the proposed deal involves “tens of thousands of points” since the US is dealing with one of the world’s biggest economies.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We're thrilled that India joined Pax Silica. If you saw the companies that are represented here today, this is an incredible partnership for both of our nations, and we look forward to taking it to the next level,” Gor said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US ambassador Sergio Gor said India has made a commitment with the US regarding Russian oil purchases as part of a trade deal and expressed confidence that the interim trade agreement will be signed by the two sides very soon. 

US ambassador Sergio Gor said on Friday that the United States is in “active negotiation” over the sale of Venezuelan oil to India to help Delhi diversify its sources of crude oil. Gor added that India has made a commitment with the US regarding Russian oil purchases as part of a trade deal, and expressed confidence that the interim trade agreement will be signed by the two sides “very soon”. “On the oil, there’s an agreement. I also don’t want to be giving out too much, in the sense that what private conversations happened...between the two leaders. We have seen India diversify its oil. There is a commitment,” Gor told reporters after the Indian side joined the US-led Pax Silica initiative on the margins of the AI Impact Summit. Also Read: Canadian govt asks court to block sensitive info in Nijjar case as it may harm international relations Gor reiterated the message from Washington about New Delhi making a commitment on Russian energy purchases since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump reached an understanding on the trade deal in a phone call on February 2. The Indian side has neither confirmed nor denied that it will stop Russian oil imports and has maintained that it will maintain multiple sources of energy, with national interest guiding all purchases. ‘Not just about India. The US doesn’t want anyone buying Russia’ “This is not about India. The US doesn’t want anyone buying Russia. The President has been very clear on this – he wants to end this [Russia-Ukraine] war. So anyone who is, in a way, still involved with that conflict is something that the president wants to see come to an end in hopes of peace coming with that,” he said. Also Read: US will contribute $10 billion to Board of Peace, others have pledged $7 billion, announces Trump Replying to a question on India possibly buying Venezuelan oil, Gor said he did not want to get into details. “Some of that aspect has not been announced yet, but there are active negotiations, the [US] Department of Energy is speaking to the Ministry of Energy here, and so we’re hoping to have some news on that very soon,” he said. The US had pitched the sale of Venezuelan oil to India to help replace Russian oil imports. India’s state-run Indian Oil Corp, Hindustan Petroleum, and Bharat Petroleum, as well as private-sector refiners Reliance Industries and HPCL-Mittal Energy, have ordered Venezuelan oil, said a Reuters report. Also Read: IAEA chief calls for urgent US-Iran deal, warns nuclear material ‘still there, in large quantities’ ‘India and the US to ink trade deal soon’ Gor said Indian and US officials are continuing negotiations to finalise the interim trade agreement and the deal could be sealed soon. “The signing [of the trade deal] will happen very soon. Even this week, we have both teams talking to each other and actively getting to a place where both will be able to sign,” he said. Also Read: ‘Unfortunate blame game’: Supreme Court tells Calcutta HC to appoint judicial officers for Bengal SIR He said the proposed deal involves “tens of thousands of points” since the US is dealing with one of the world’s biggest economies. “We're thrilled that India joined Pax Silica. If you saw the companies that are represented here today, this is an incredible partnership for both of our nations, and we look forward to taking it to the next level,” Gor said.

US ambassador Sergio Gor said India has made a commitment with the US regarding Russian oil purchases as part of a trade deal and expressed confidence that the interim trade agreement will be signed by the two sides very soon.&nbsp;

India ‘diversifying’ energy options, will buy Venezuela oil, says US ambassador Sergio Gor

The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals worth approximately Rs 3.60 lakh crore to buy 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The proposal also includes six P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft from the United States for the Indian Navy.&nbsp;Out of 114 Rafale fighter jets, 18 will be delivered by Dassault Aviation in fly-away condition from France, while the other 96 jets will be manufactured domestically under the "Make in India" initiative. The deal includes 88 single-seat and 26 twin-seat variants of the advanced Rafale F4 standard of the jets.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Indonesia also signed an order for 42 Rafale jets from France in February 2022, led by its Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto, with the company Dassault Aviation. The deal was divided into three tranches (6 + 18 +18), taking effect sequentially (February 2022, August 2023, January 2024).&nbsp;Interestingly, the Indonesian government signed a deal for 42 Rafale fighter jets worth $8.1 billion, nearly Rs 68,000 crore, putting the cost of each aircraft at roughly Rs 1,747. In comparison, India's agreement for 114 jets is valued at about Rs 3.25 lakh crore, which is nearly Rs 2,850 crore per jet, around 1.5 times more. Following the deal, which shows a sharp differences has fueled questions over India for paying more than Rs 1000 crore extra for each aircraft.&nbsp;WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-probe-ex-prince-andrew-was-arrested-over-alleged-document-leak-1771594157145/embedd<h3>Why are Rafales costlier for India?</h3>If the Rafales' all components are compared between both countries, then the higher price reflects a much broader package. India’s deal includes advanced Meteor and SCALP missiles, HAMMER precision-guided bombs, full-mission simulators, long-term maintenance, spares, and technology transfer. In effect, India is paying for the aircraft’s entire life-cycle, making the overall deal more economical in the long run.&nbsp;This is also not India’s first Rafale purchase. The country earlier inducted 36 jets and later acquired the naval Rafale-M variant. Currently, the Air Force operates 36 Rafales, while the Navy has deployed 26 aircraft on INS Vikrant.&nbsp;Currently, the IAF has 29 fighter squadrons, but its assessed requirement stands at 42 squadrons with each squadron having 16-18 fighter jets. This new deal of Rafales will help India to close this gap and strengthen readiness across different regions.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cm-devendra-fadnavis-wife-amruta-quits-bank-job-after-23-years-1771507722730">Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis’ wife Amruta quits bank job after 23 years</a>

Along with India, Indonesia signed an order for 42 Rafale jets from France in February 2022, led by its Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto, with the company Dassault Aviation. The deal was divided into three tranches (6 + 18 +18), taking effect sequentially (Feb 2022, Aug 2023, Jan 2024).

The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals worth approximately Rs 3.60 lakh crore to buy 114 Rafale fighter jets from France for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The proposal also includes six P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft from the United States for the Indian Navy. Out of 114 Rafale fighter jets, 18 will be delivered by Dassault Aviation in fly-away condition from France, while the other 96 jets will be manufactured domestically under the "Make in India" initiative. The deal includes 88 single-seat and 26 twin-seat variants of the advanced Rafale F4 standard of the jets. Meanwhile, Indonesia also signed an order for 42 Rafale jets from France in February 2022, led by its Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto, with the company Dassault Aviation. The deal was divided into three tranches (6 + 18 +18), taking effect sequentially (February 2022, August 2023, January 2024). Interestingly, the Indonesian government signed a deal for 42 Rafale fighter jets worth $8.1 billion, nearly Rs 68,000 crore, putting the cost of each aircraft at roughly Rs 1,747. In comparison, India's agreement for 114 jets is valued at about Rs 3.25 lakh crore, which is nearly Rs 2,850 crore per jet, around 1.5 times more. Following the deal, which shows a sharp differences has fueled questions over India for paying more than Rs 1000 crore extra for each aircraft. WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-files-probe-ex-prince-andrew-was-arrested-over-alleged-document-leak-1771594157145/embedd Why are Rafales costlier for India? If the Rafales' all components are compared between both countries, then the higher price reflects a much broader package. India’s deal includes advanced Meteor and SCALP missiles, HAMMER precision-guided bombs, full-mission simulators, long-term maintenance, spares, and technology transfer. In effect, India is paying for the aircraft’s entire life-cycle, making the overall deal more economical in the long run. This is also not India’s first Rafale purchase. The country earlier inducted 36 jets and later acquired the naval Rafale-M variant. Currently, the Air Force operates 36 Rafales, while the Navy has deployed 26 aircraft on INS Vikrant. Currently, the IAF has 29 fighter squadrons, but its assessed requirement stands at 42 squadrons with each squadron having 16-18 fighter jets. This new deal of Rafales will help India to close this gap and strengthen readiness across different regions. Also read: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis’ wife Amruta quits bank job after 23 years

Along with India, Indonesia also signed an order for 42 Rafale jets from France in February 2022, led by its Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto, with the company Dassault Aviation. The deal was divided into three tranches (6 + 18 +18), taking effect sequentially (Feb 2022, Aug 2023, Jan 2024).

'Same jets, different price': Why India pays more for Rafales while Indonesia pays less - Complete breakdown

French President Emmanuel Macron recently wrapped up his three-day visit to India along with First Lady Brigitte Macron. The President had been sharing regular updates on social media of the places he visited in India and the people he met. But it is his filmy goodbye video that is grabbing attention online.&nbsp;&nbsp;As he bid goodbye to India, Emmanuel Macron shared a tribute video recapping his memorable moments spent in the country with Raveer Singh’s viral Dhurandhar track playing in the background.<h2>Emmanuel Macron uses the Dhurandhar track</h2>On Friday, Emmanuel Macron took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share the tribute video in which he looked back at the special moments spent in India. From his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a breezy jog on Mumbai’s streets to indulging in Indian cuisine, Macron captured his stay in India beautifully.&nbsp;He shared the video with the caption, “Thank you, India! (Indian flag emoji and France flag emoji).”What grabbed everyone’s attention was the track playing in the background. It was the title track of Aditya Dhar's film Dhurandhar, Jogi.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you India! 🇮🇳🇫🇷 <a href="https://t.co/vDJ9IH2hZy">pic.twitter.com/vDJ9IH2hZy</a>&mdash; Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/2024558347135922533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Jogi, sung by MC Punjabi, was originally released over two decades ago, but reworked by composer Shashwat Sachdev for Dhurandhar with additional vocals by Hanumankind.&nbsp;As Macron used the hit track for his video, excited fans too to the comment section to share their enthusiasm and reactions.&nbsp;“Is no one going to talk about the Dhurandhar background song?” one wrote. “Now this is a Dhurandhar-level meeting,” one posted. “That Dhurandhar song in the background is just lit,” another mentioned.<h2>About Macron’s India visit</h2>French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron were on a three-day diplomatic visit to India. On the first day of their India visit, they landed in Mumbai and held a special interaction with Bollywood celebrities, including Anil Kapoor, Manoj Bajpayee, Zoya Akhtar, Richa Chadha, Shabana Azmi, and Ricky Kej, while there.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/french-president-emmanuel-macron-meets-indian-cinema-legends-anil-kapoor-shabana-azmi-richa-chadha-as-he-arrives-in-mumbai-see-pics-1771327149572">French President Emmanuel Macron meets Indian cinema ‘legends’ Anil Kapoor, Shabana Azmi, Richa Chadha as he arrives in Mumbai; see pics</a>&nbsp;Macron, accompanied by his wife, Madame Brigitte Macron, also visited the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. France and India co-chaired the AI Action Summit in February 2025, and the innovation, science and technology partnerships are a key part of the Horizon 2047 roadmap.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-turns-trendsetter-french-president-shares-ai-generated-cute-picture-with-pm-modi-1771429302539">Macron turns trendsetter: French president shares AI-generated 'cute' picture with PM Modi</a><h2>About Dhurandhar</h2>Aditya Dhar’s film Dhurandhar released in theatres on December 5, 2025 and has emerged as one of the highest-grossing Hindi films of all time. The film is led by Ranveer Singh, along with Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal in supporting roles.&nbsp;The film raked in over Rs 830 crores in India. It became the first Bollywood film to cross the Rs 800 crore mark in India. The film’s worldwide collection is over Rs1300 crore.&nbsp;Dhurandhar 2 is slated for a theatrical release on March 19. The official Hindi teaser of Dhurandhar: The Revenge dropped recently. Dhurandhar 2 will clash at the box office with Yash’s pan-India film, Toxic.

French President Emmanuel Macron wrapped up his Indian visit by sharing a tribute video that gave glimpses of his time spent here. The video caught the attention of social media users due to the surprising selection of song for background music.

French President Emmanuel Macron recently wrapped up his three-day visit to India along with First Lady Brigitte Macron. The President had been sharing regular updates on social media of the places he visited in India and the people he met. But it is his filmy goodbye video that is grabbing attention online. As he bid goodbye to India, Emmanuel Macron shared a tribute video recapping his memorable moments spent in the country with Raveer Singh’s viral Dhurandhar track playing in the background. Emmanuel Macron uses the Dhurandhar track On Friday, Emmanuel Macron took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share the tribute video in which he looked back at the special moments spent in India. From his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a breezy jog on Mumbai’s streets to indulging in Indian cuisine, Macron captured his stay in India beautifully. He shared the video with the caption, “Thank you, India! (Indian flag emoji and France flag emoji).” What grabbed everyone’s attention was the track playing in the background. It was the title track of Aditya Dhar's film Dhurandhar, Jogi.

French President Emmanuel Macron wrapped up his Indian visit by sharing a tribute video that gave glimpses of his time spent here. The video caught the attention of social media users due to the surprising selection of song for background music.

Emmanuel Macron’s tribute to India features Dhurandhar track—and the Internet is losing it

Amruta Fadnavis, the First Lady of Maharashtra, announced her exit from Axis Bank on Thursday (Feb 19) after working in the organisation for over two decades. She used to dabble with singing even when she was working in the bank as&nbsp;a senior vice president. And now, netizens are speculating whether she will be considering singing full-time. Fadnavis has been making music videos for a while now and has been receiving online traction for the content. On the occasion of Shivratri, she had released a devotional song, ‘Shambhu Re’, which has received over a million views in less than a week.&nbsp;<h2>Fadnavis to sing full-time?</h2>&nbsp;Fadnavis' passion for singing is not unknown; she has over 66,000 subscribers on YouTube, who follow her work. Every video released garners a lot of attention, both appreciative and otherwise. But trolls could not demotivate the 46-year-old or deter her from creating content. She has been seen performing at events and has never shied away from singing on stage or in a studio setup.&nbsp;The makers of her latest song described it as: "Shambhu Re" where faith breathes, in the mesmerising voice of 'Amruta Fadnavis', composed by 'Monty Sharma', choreographed &amp; directed by 'Raajeev Walia', which has been shot in 27 locations of Lord Shiva.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cm-devendra-fadnavis-wife-amruta-quits-bank-job-after-23-years-1771507722730">Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis’ wife Amruta quits bank job after 23 years</a>&nbsp;<h2>Management trainee to senior vice president</h2>&nbsp;Soon after she quit her job, Fadnavis updated her X bio, which reads, “Ex-Banker, Playback Singer, Social Worker, Unadulterated Free Spirit." And as she announced her resignation from her post, she wrote, “23 years ago, I walked into Axis Bank as a young management trainee. Today, I sign off as senior vice president, with a heart full of gratitude. With experience spanning branch operations to corporate banking, treasury to customer relations, this institution has been my family, teacher and second home. Grateful to my colleagues and leaders, especially MD &amp; CEO Amitabh Chaudhry, for all the support. As this beautiful chapter closes, I carry lifelong lessons and friendships.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">23 years ago, I walked into Axis Bank as a young Management Trainee. Today, I sign off as Senior Vice President, with a heart full of gratitude. With experience spanning branch operations to corporate banking , treasury to customer relations , this institution has been my family,… <a href="https://t.co/Mo2171NBi2">pic.twitter.com/Mo2171NBi2</a>&mdash; AMRUTA FADNAVIS (@fadnavis_amruta) <a href="https://twitter.com/fadnavis_amruta/status/2024449553576185946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Netizens speculate</h2>X users have flooded the comment section; one even enquired if she would be organising concerts. Satyam Vats wrote, “Now that you have resigned, there's ample time to organise concerts. Madam, please travel to almost all states, we want to listen to your melodious voice.” While Harsh Kumar wrote, “Eagerly waiting for one of your melodious and soul-touching performances in Delhi - the city would be honoured to host you.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">You are truly an inspiration for every woman in India 👏 Ma’am, you are beautifully showing society that a woman from a middle-class background can achieve incredible heights through dedication and passion. Eagerly waiting for one of your melodious and soul-touching…&mdash; Harsh Kumar (@itsmeharsh_09) <a href="https://twitter.com/itsmeharsh_09/status/2024701770963075353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After a 23-year career at Axis Bank, Maharashtra First Lady Amruta Fadnavis has officially resigned. Netizens speculate whether she is going to pursue her passion for music full-time.

Amruta Fadnavis, the First Lady of Maharashtra, announced her exit from Axis Bank on Thursday (Feb 19) after working in the organisation for over two decades. She used to dabble with singing even when she was working in the bank as a senior vice president. And now, netizens are speculating whether she will be considering singing full-time. Fadnavis has been making music videos for a while now and has been receiving online traction for the content. On the occasion of Shivratri, she had released a devotional song, ‘Shambhu Re’, which has received over a million views in less than a week. Fadnavis to sing full-time? Fadnavis' passion for singing is not unknown; she has over 66,000 subscribers on YouTube, who follow her work. Every video released garners a lot of attention, both appreciative and otherwise. But trolls could not demotivate the 46-year-old or deter her from creating content. She has been seen performing at events and has never shied away from singing on stage or in a studio setup. The makers of her latest song described it as: "Shambhu Re" where faith breathes, in the mesmerising voice of 'Amruta Fadnavis', composed by 'Monty Sharma', choreographed & directed by 'Raajeev Walia', which has been shot in 27 locations of Lord Shiva. Also read: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis’ wife Amruta quits bank job after 23 years Management trainee to senior vice president Soon after she quit her job, Fadnavis updated her X bio, which reads, “Ex-Banker, Playback Singer, Social Worker, Unadulterated Free Spirit." And as she announced her resignation from her post, she wrote, “23 years ago, I walked into Axis Bank as a young management trainee. Today, I sign off as senior vice president, with a heart full of gratitude. With experience spanning branch operations to corporate banking, treasury to customer relations, this institution has been my family, teacher and second home. Grateful to my colleagues and leaders, especially MD & CEO Amitabh Chaudhry, for all the support. As this beautiful chapter closes, I carry lifelong lessons and friendships.”

After a 23-year career at Axis Bank, Maharashtra First Lady Amruta Fadnavis has officially resigned. Netizens speculate whether she is going to pursue her passion for music full-time.

From boardroom to studio: Why netizens are convinced Amruta Fadnavis is now a full-time singer

In an unprecedented move, citing “extraordinary circumstances,” the Supreme Court of India on Friday told the Calcutta High Court to appoint judicial officers for helping West Bengal in carrying out the special intensive revision (SIR) exercise. The top court observed that an unfortunate blame game has been going on between the West Bengal government and the Election Commission over the voter roll revision drive. The judicial officers can look into claims and objections, the&nbsp;Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Vipin Pancholi said.&nbsp;“There is an unfortunate scenario of allegations and counter-allegations, which shows a trust deficit between two constitutional functionaries... that is the state government and the Election Commission. Now, the process is stuck at the stage of claims and objections of the people who have been included in the discrepancy list,” Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-contribute-10-billion-to-board-of-peace-others-have-pledged-7-billion-announces-trump-1771526027108">US will contribute $10 billion to Board of Peace, others have pledged $7 billion, announces Trump</a><h2>‘Had to pass an extraordinary order due to extraordinary circumstances’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;The Supreme Court told the Calcutta High Court to free up some serving and even former judicial officers in the rank of district judge for SIR work. The top court said it had to pass an “extraordinary order” due to “extraordinary circumstances”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-this-is-tax-money-supreme-court-slams-poll-eve-freebie-culture-questions-fiscal-logic-1771496414543">‘This is tax money’: Supreme Court slams poll-eve freebie culture, questions fiscal logic</a>&nbsp;The Supreme Court also directed the State Election Commissioner, chief secretary, police chief, and other top officers to hold a meeting with the high court chief justice on Saturday to work out the finer details of the plan.&nbsp;“The state is obligated to provide Group A officers to perform the duty of SDO, SDM. There is a dispute among the party about the rank of the officials provided by the state government to perform the function of ERO and AERO. It is nearly impossible for this court to determine the status and rank of officials now deployed by the ECI given by the state,” the Supreme Court said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Spare some serving &nbsp;judicial officers along with former judicial officers’</h2>&nbsp;"In order to ensure fairness in adjudication of genuineness of documents submitted and consequent inclusion or exclusion in voter list... We are left with hardly any other option but to request the Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court to spare some serving judicial officers along with some former judicial officers in the rank of ADJ or district judges, who can then in each district help in disposing or revisiting the claims under the logical discrepancy list,” the court said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-chief-calls-for-urgent-us-iran-deal-warns-nuclear-material-still-there-in-large-quantities-1771521937555">IAEA chief calls for urgent US-Iran deal, warns nuclear material ‘still there, in large quantities’</a>&nbsp;“A situation is being created where judicial officers have to intervene... We were expecting cooperation by the state. Is this the level of communication from the state? For the February 9 order, you responded on February 17. You are saying the state government is examining the officers. Examining, how? You should have written that 8,500 officers are sent. We are not microobservers. We are disappointed to see this. We thought states would cooperate. We don’t want private explanations,” the CJI said.

The Supreme Court told the Calcutta High Court to free up some serving and even former judicial officers in the rank of district judge for SIR work and said it had to pass an “extraordinary order” due to “extraordinary circumstances."

In an unprecedented move, citing “extraordinary circumstances,” the Supreme Court of India on Friday told the Calcutta High Court to appoint judicial officers for helping West Bengal in carrying out the special intensive revision (SIR) exercise. The top court observed that an unfortunate blame game has been going on between the West Bengal government and the Election Commission over the voter roll revision drive. The judicial officers can look into claims and objections, the Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Vipin Pancholi said. “There is an unfortunate scenario of allegations and counter-allegations, which shows a trust deficit between two constitutional functionaries... that is the state government and the Election Commission. Now, the process is stuck at the stage of claims and objections of the people who have been included in the discrepancy list,” Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said. Also Read: US will contribute $10 billion to Board of Peace, others have pledged $7 billion, announces Trump ‘Had to pass an extraordinary order due to extraordinary circumstances’ The Supreme Court told the Calcutta High Court to free up some serving and even former judicial officers in the rank of district judge for SIR work. The top court said it had to pass an “extraordinary order” due to “extraordinary circumstances”. Also Read: ‘This is tax money’: Supreme Court slams poll-eve freebie culture, questions fiscal logic The Supreme Court also directed the State Election Commissioner, chief secretary, police chief, and other top officers to hold a meeting with the high court chief justice on Saturday to work out the finer details of the plan. “The state is obligated to provide Group A officers to perform the duty of SDO, SDM. There is a dispute among the party about the rank of the officials provided by the state government to perform the function of ERO and AERO. It is nearly impossible for this court to determine the status and rank of officials now deployed by the ECI given by the state,” the Supreme Court said. ‘Spare some serving judicial officers along with former judicial officers’ "In order to ensure fairness in adjudication of genuineness of documents submitted and consequent inclusion or exclusion in voter list... We are left with hardly any other option but to request the Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court to spare some serving judicial officers along with some former judicial officers in the rank of ADJ or district judges, who can then in each district help in disposing or revisiting the claims under the logical discrepancy list,” the court said. Also Read: IAEA chief calls for urgent US-Iran deal, warns nuclear material ‘still there, in large quantities’ “A situation is being created where judicial officers have to intervene... We were expecting cooperation by the state. Is this the level of communication from the state? For the February 9 order, you responded on February 17. You are saying the state government is examining the officers. Examining, how? You should have written that 8,500 officers are sent. We are not microobservers. We are disappointed to see this. We thought states would cooperate. We don’t want private explanations,” the CJI said.

The Supreme Court told the Calcutta High Court to free up some serving and even former judicial officers in the rank of district judge for SIR work and said it had to pass an “extraordinary order” due to “extraordinary circumstances."

‘Unfortunate blame game’: Supreme Court tells Calcutta HC to appoint judicial officers for Bengal SIR

To promote sports among the youth of the Kashmir Valley, the Indian Army organised the Chinar Open Winter Games 2026, a flagship initiative held amidst the breathtaking, snow-clad landscapes of Gulmarg. Organised under the aegis of the Dagger Division of the Chinar Corps, the event celebrated sportsmanship, community engagement and youth empowerment in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;The Games offered a dynamic platform for young athletes from across the region to showcase their talent and channel their energy into competitive and constructive pursuits. This year’s edition recorded unprecedented participation, with 660 competitors taking part in eight winter sporting disciplines. The participants included 166 girls and 494 boys, reflecting a steady rise in enthusiasm for winter sports and growing female participation in the region.&nbsp;The competition featured a thrilling line-up of events, including high-adrenaline skiing races, snowboarding contests and elegant skating performances. Athletes competed against some of the region’s finest talents, drawing large crowds of local residents, tourists and winter sports enthusiasts who gathered to witness the action.&nbsp;“We are truly delighted that the Indian Army is organising such events in Gulmarg. This initiative stands out even in comparison to the Khelo India Winter Games, as the Army is ensuring the highest standards of organisation and providing the very best facilities and support for the athletes,” said an athlete&nbsp;A key highlight of the event was the visit of Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command. He interacted with participants, organisers and members of the local community, praising the seamless conduct of the Games and the high standards of sportsmanship displayed by the young athletes.&nbsp;Beyond the competitive spirit, the Games underscored the Indian Army’s enduring bond with the people of the region. The initiative highlighted the Army’s role in nurturing young talent, promoting sports culture and contributing to the development of Gulmarg as a premier winter sports destination.&nbsp;“This is a remarkable initiative by the Indian Army. We have been provided with top-quality gear, and the slopes meet international standards. We are truly grateful for this opportunity, especially as it allows us to witness and compete at a very high level. Events like these give us the platform and confidence to aspire to represent the country at international competitions, including the Olympics.”' said an Athlete.&nbsp;Chinar Open Winter Games 2026 stood as a testament to Kashmir’s growing sporting culture and Gulmarg’s rising prominence as a winter sports hub in India.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-supreme-court-slams-freebies-before-elections-and-it-s-not-the-first-time-but-can-anything-be-done-about-it-tamil-nadu-free-electricity-case-1771569507924">Indian Supreme Court slams freebies before elections, and it's not the first time. But can anything be done about it?</a>

The competition featured a thrilling line-up of events, including high-adrenaline skiing races, snowboarding contests and elegant skating performances. Athletes competed against some of the region’s finest talents, drawing large crowds of residents, tourists and winter sports enthusiasts.

To promote sports among the youth of the Kashmir Valley, the Indian Army organised the Chinar Open Winter Games 2026, a flagship initiative held amidst the breathtaking, snow-clad landscapes of Gulmarg. Organised under the aegis of the Dagger Division of the Chinar Corps, the event celebrated sportsmanship, community engagement and youth empowerment in the Kashmir Valley. The Games offered a dynamic platform for young athletes from across the region to showcase their talent and channel their energy into competitive and constructive pursuits. This year’s edition recorded unprecedented participation, with 660 competitors taking part in eight winter sporting disciplines. The participants included 166 girls and 494 boys, reflecting a steady rise in enthusiasm for winter sports and growing female participation in the region. The competition featured a thrilling line-up of events, including high-adrenaline skiing races, snowboarding contests and elegant skating performances. Athletes competed against some of the region’s finest talents, drawing large crowds of local residents, tourists and winter sports enthusiasts who gathered to witness the action. “We are truly delighted that the Indian Army is organising such events in Gulmarg. This initiative stands out even in comparison to the Khelo India Winter Games, as the Army is ensuring the highest standards of organisation and providing the very best facilities and support for the athletes,” said an athlete A key highlight of the event was the visit of Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command. He interacted with participants, organisers and members of the local community, praising the seamless conduct of the Games and the high standards of sportsmanship displayed by the young athletes. Beyond the competitive spirit, the Games underscored the Indian Army’s enduring bond with the people of the region. The initiative highlighted the Army’s role in nurturing young talent, promoting sports culture and contributing to the development of Gulmarg as a premier winter sports destination. “This is a remarkable initiative by the Indian Army. We have been provided with top-quality gear, and the slopes meet international standards. We are truly grateful for this opportunity, especially as it allows us to witness and compete at a very high level. Events like these give us the platform and confidence to aspire to represent the country at international competitions, including the Olympics.”' said an Athlete. Chinar Open Winter Games 2026 stood as a testament to Kashmir’s growing sporting culture and Gulmarg’s rising prominence as a winter sports hub in India. Also read: Indian Supreme Court slams freebies before elections, and it's not the first time. But can anything be done about it?

The competition featured a thrilling line-up of events, including high-adrenaline skiing races, snowboarding contests and elegant skating performances. Athletes competed against some of the region’s finest talents, drawing large crowds of residents, tourists and winter sports enthusiasts.

Indian army hosts Chinar Open Winter Games 2026 in Gulmarg to empower Kashmiri youth

India on Friday (Feb 20) joined the Pax Silica alliance on rare earth elements, ending speculation about whether New Delhi had been snubbed from the pact led by the US. Oddly, the US tried to downplay analysts’ assessments that this alliance is aimed at countering China’s continuing dominance in the rare earth supply chain that affects chip manufacturing and AI computing. Here is what you should know about Pax Silica and why India joining it is significant.<h2>What is Pax Silica?</h2>Pax Silica is a US-led strategic coalition to build resilient supply chains for both critical minerals and artificial intelligence computing. The framework envisions a coalition-led economic order for the AI age, with deep economic and technological cooperation among members.Signatories will cooperate on the making and flow of raw earth materials, semiconductors, and AI infrastructure. Experts say this is part of the broader US strategy to counter China’s dominance in high-tech sectors, particularly AI computing.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-india-joining-pax-silica-is-a-big-deal-how-india-is-positioning-itself-in-an-ai-world-1771574386678/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-india-joining-pax-silica-is-a-big-deal-how-india-is-positioning-itself-in-an-ai-world-1771574386678/embed</a><h2>India signs on Pax Silica</h2>India joined the Pax Silica alliance at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam. Indian Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, and US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg attended the signing ceremony.Vaishnaw said that becoming part of Pax Silica will greatly benefit India’s electronics and semiconductor industry. Gor said the coalition “will define the 21st-century economic and technological order”.“Pax Silica is a declaration that the future belongs to those who build, and when free people join forces,” said Helberg.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-pax-silica-initiative-the-us-led-grouping-that-excluded-india-china-us-modi-trump-jinping-trade-war-tariffs-semiconductor-us-hegemony-1765541403919">What is Pax Silica Initiative? The US-led grouping that excluded India</a>&nbsp;<h2>Key pillars of the Pax Silica declaration</h2>The Pax Silica declaration vows to build secure, resilient, and innovation-driven supply chains for critical minerals and AI. It aims to establish a durable economic order to drive AI-powered prosperity across partner nations. It recognises that reliable supply chains are indispensable to mutual economic security and that AI is a transformative force for long-term prosperity. It stresses that trustworthy systems are essential to mutual security.The declaration seeks to promote co-investment, safeguard sensitive technologies from foreign control, and build trusted digital infrastructure.<h2>Why India joining Pax Silica is significant</h2>India’s participation is being seen as a major win for the US in the race to shape access to advanced semiconductors and AI infrastructure supply chains.India is a BRICS member, of which China is also part. New Delhi’s alignment with a US-led technology bloc is therefore geopolitically notable.India is pushing to become a chip-making hub. India’s first semiconductor plant is set to begin commercial production soon. Currently, 2nm chips are being designed in India.The US State Department recently announced a new concierge service to help Pax Silica signatories acquire US-made AI semiconductors more efficiently. This aligns with India’s push to become a global semiconductor and electronics manufacturing hub.<h2>The original idea of Pax Silica had excluded India</h2>The first Pax Silica summit was held on 12 December 2024 at the Donald J Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, DC.Besides the US, the original founding members of the alliance are Australia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. India is the 10th member.India was left out of the initial Pax Silica alliance, raising questions in diplomatic circles. The opposition Congress party at the time had criticised New Delhi’s exclusion as a setback for India’s strategic and technological ambitions.<h2>Not about China?</h2>Despite the optics, Helberg insisted that Pax Silica is “really not about China; it is about America”.“We want to secure our supply chains,” he said.However, the context is clear. China currently controls approximately 90 per cent of global rare earth refining — a key vulnerability the coalition seeks to address.&nbsp;Beijing also controls critical segments of the semiconductor and AI supply chains. Pax Silica aims to reduce reliance on Chinese sources for these strategic materials and technologies.&nbsp; The stress is on secure, resilient supply chains, co-investment in semiconductor manufacturing, and protection of sensitive technologies. This is clearly a signal that the intent is to counter China’s influence in high-tech sectors. India’s entry, in particular, strengthens the coalition’s geopolitical leverage given its strategic location and growing domestic semiconductor industry.This further underscores the implicit aim to limit China’s technological and economic reach.

India finally joins US-led Pax Silica alliance on rare earths and AI supply chains. This will boost semiconductor supply chains. It's a strategic move to counter China’s dominance in high-tech sectors.

India on Friday (Feb 20) joined the Pax Silica alliance on rare earth elements, ending speculation about whether New Delhi had been snubbed from the pact led by the US. Oddly, the US tried to downplay analysts’ assessments that this alliance is aimed at countering China’s continuing dominance in the rare earth supply chain that affects chip manufacturing and AI computing. Here is what you should know about Pax Silica and why India joining it is significant. What is Pax Silica? Pax Silica is a US-led strategic coalition to build resilient supply chains for both critical minerals and artificial intelligence computing. The framework envisions a coalition-led economic order for the AI age, with deep economic and technological cooperation among members. Signatories will cooperate on the making and flow of raw earth materials, semiconductors, and AI infrastructure. Experts say this is part of the broader US strategy to counter China’s dominance in high-tech sectors, particularly AI computing. https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-india-joining-pax-silica-is-a-big-deal-how-india-is-positioning-itself-in-an-ai-world-1771574386678/embed India signs on Pax Silica India joined the Pax Silica alliance at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam. Indian Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, and US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg attended the signing ceremony. Vaishnaw said that becoming part of Pax Silica will greatly benefit India’s electronics and semiconductor industry. Gor said the coalition “will define the 21st-century economic and technological order”. “Pax Silica is a declaration that the future belongs to those who build, and when free people join forces,” said Helberg. Also read: What is Pax Silica Initiative? The US-led grouping that excluded India Key pillars of the Pax Silica declaration The Pax Silica declaration vows to build secure, resilient, and innovation-driven supply chains for critical minerals and AI. It aims to establish a durable economic order to drive AI-powered prosperity across partner nations. It recognises that reliable supply chains are indispensable to mutual economic security and that AI is a transformative force for long-term prosperity. It stresses that trustworthy systems are essential to mutual security. The declaration seeks to promote co-investment, safeguard sensitive technologies from foreign control, and build trusted digital infrastructure. Why India joining Pax Silica is significant India’s participation is being seen as a major win for the US in the race to shape access to advanced semiconductors and AI infrastructure supply chains. India is a BRICS member, of which China is also part. New Delhi’s alignment with a US-led technology bloc is therefore geopolitically notable. India is pushing to become a chip-making hub. India’s first semiconductor plant is set to begin commercial production soon. Currently, 2nm chips are being designed in India. The US State Department recently announced a new concierge service to help Pax Silica signatories acquire US-made AI semiconductors more efficiently. This aligns with India’s push to become a global semiconductor and electronics manufacturing hub. The original idea of Pax Silica had excluded India The first Pax Silica summit was held on 12 December 2024 at the Donald J Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, DC. Besides the US, the original founding members of the alliance are Australia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. India is the 10th member. India was left out of the initial Pax Silica alliance, raising questions in diplomatic circles. The opposition Congress party at the time had criticised New Delhi’s exclusion as a setback for India’s strategic and technological ambitions. Not about China? Despite the optics, Helberg insisted that Pax Silica is “really not about China; it is about America”. “We want to secure our supply chains,” he said. However, the context is clear. China currently controls approximately 90 per cent of global rare earth refining — a key vulnerability the coalition seeks to address. Beijing also controls critical segments of the semiconductor and AI supply chains. Pax Silica aims to reduce reliance on Chinese sources for these strategic materials and technologies. The stress is on secure, resilient supply chains, co-investment in semiconductor manufacturing, and protection of sensitive technologies. This is clearly a signal that the intent is to counter China’s influence in high-tech sectors. India’s entry, in particular, strengthens the coalition’s geopolitical leverage given its strategic location and growing domestic semiconductor industry. This further underscores the implicit aim to limit China’s technological and economic reach.

India finally joins US-led Pax Silica alliance on rare earths and AI supply chains. This will boost semiconductor supply chains. It's a strategic move to counter China’s dominance in high-tech sectors.

Not about China? Why India joining Pax Silica alliance on rare earths supply chain, chip making and AI is a big deal

A youth reportedly set a bike on fire when asked not to smoke at a fuel pump in Chhattisgarh's Raipur. Fire broke out when the man lit his cigarette and then set a fuel nozzle and bike ablaze while fueling the petrol using a lighter when he was stopped for smoking. Soon after the incident, the pump staff doused the flame with a fire extinguisher, averting a major disaster. The incident occurred at a petrol pump in the Urla area of the Raipur district on Thursday evening. According to police, the two individuals, Dharmendra Kshatri and Imran, were at the pump on a motorcycle to refuel. According to a report by the TOI, police stated that Imran was on the bike seat while Dharmendra stood nearby, fueling the petrol. When the fuel tank was opened, Dharmendra reportedly took out a cigarette and attempted to light it. When Dharmendra was asked to stop smoking at the petrol pump, he allegedly lost his temper and set the fuel nozzle pipe on fire using a lighter, causing flames to erupt.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Man sets bike on fire after being stopped from lighting cigarette at fuel pump in India <a href="https://t.co/Mo6YUVlKF8">pic.twitter.com/Mo6YUVlKF8</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2024686470615990653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Staff averts possible explosion</h3>The blaze rapidly spread to the motorcycle’s fuel tank and the pump machine, sparking panic. Both the biker and a pump worker ran away as the fire intensified. According to officials, an alert attendant quickly removed the fuel pipe and shut off the main fuel supply. Using the pump’s fire safety equipment, staff extinguished the flames in time, averting a possible explosion or major accident. Amid the chaos, burning fuel reportedly splashed onto the accused. The two men tried to escape but were stopped by pump employees, who alerted the police and filed a complaint. In response to the incident, the suspects, based on the pump manager’s statement and CCTV footage, were arrested by the Urla police. Inspector Rohit Mahelkar said cases have been registered under arson and endangering public safety charges. Police added that the staff’s swift action prevented the fire from spreading to nearby vehicles and fuel storage areas.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/iowa-alpha-delta-phi-frat-hazing-video-56-shirtless-boys-1771568882681">56 motionless, shirtless boys covered in sauce: Horrifying frat house video is beyond creepy</a>

Amid the chaos, burning fuel reportedly splashed onto the accused. When both men tried to escape, they were stopped by pump employees, who alerted the police and filed a complaint. The incident occurred at a petrol pump in the Urla area of the Raipur district on Thursday evening.

A youth reportedly set a bike on fire when asked not to smoke at a fuel pump in Chhattisgarh's Raipur. Fire broke out when the man lit his cigarette and then set a fuel nozzle and bike ablaze while fueling the petrol using a lighter when he was stopped for smoking. Soon after the incident, the pump staff doused the flame with a fire extinguisher, averting a major disaster. The incident occurred at a petrol pump in the Urla area of the Raipur district on Thursday evening. According to police, the two individuals, Dharmendra Kshatri and Imran, were at the pump on a motorcycle to refuel. According to a report by the TOI, police stated that Imran was on the bike seat while Dharmendra stood nearby, fueling the petrol. When the fuel tank was opened, Dharmendra reportedly took out a cigarette and attempted to light it. When Dharmendra was asked to stop smoking at the petrol pump, he allegedly lost his temper and set the fuel nozzle pipe on fire using a lighter, causing flames to erupt.

Amid the chaos, burning fuel reportedly splashed onto the accused. When both men tried to escape, they were stopped by pump employees, who alerted the police and filed a complaint. The incident occurred at a petrol pump in the Urla area of the Raipur district on Thursday evening.

Asked not to smoke at petrol pump, youth sets bike & fuel nozzle ablaze in Chhattisgarh's Raipur: VIDEO

India's Supreme Court has once again criticised pre-poll freebies, this time taking issue with plans to provide free electricity ahead of the Tamil Nadu state elections. In its observations on Thursday (Feb 19), the court said that even states that are not financially doing well are offering such freebies. &nbsp;It slammed indiscriminate free electricity and other benefits by revenue-deficient states, warning that such largesse harms economic development and work culture. But we have been here before. The apex court has often been reluctant to make any specific ruling to regulate the matter, leaving it to the election body and parliament. It leaves a grey area that often allows pre-election freebies to thrive, possibly affecting election outcomes for years now. Here is an analysis.<h2>What the Indian Supreme Court said on pre-election freebies</h2>The court agreed that freebies might be appropriate for poor people, but said that when they are given to everyone, it amounts to appeasement. It called for a re-examination of policies that are affecting progress.“Most of the states in the country are revenue deficit states and yet they are offering such freebies,” said the court.“The economic development of the nation will be hampered by this kind of largesse distribution. It is the state’s duty to provide welfare, but those who are enjoying freebies, is that not something which needs to be examined?,” it added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-people-get-freebies-why-work-apex-court-8715346/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-people-get-freebies-why-work-apex-court-8715346/embed</a><h2>Why Indian Supreme Court made observation on freebies during elections</h2>Over the years, it has become very common in Indian states to offer various freebies — services and products — ahead of elections, including direct cash transfers into people's bank accounts. The court said that, as a welfare state, it is acceptable to give concessions to poor people, but even states without adequate income are offering universal freebies.The Supreme Court bench, chaired by Chief Justice Surya Kant, was hearing a plea filed by the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation. The company had challenged the 2024 central electricity reforms, which mandate strict financial discipline for power-distribution firms.Issuing notice to the Centre in the case, the Supreme Court expressed its displeasure that such freebies are being offered not only in Tamil Nadu, but across the nation.&nbsp;Chief Justice Surya Kant said the court is aware of what happened in the recent state elections, including direct money transfer programmes.&nbsp;The court observed that, instead of spending money on development projects, states are using funds for large-scale freebies and salaries.<h2>Who will work if government gives freebies? Supreme Court's sharp rebuke&nbsp;</h2>If food, bicycles and electricity are given free of cost, who will go to work, the court asked."If you start giving free food from morning to evening, then free cycles, then free electricity, who will work? And what will happen to the work culture?”It is fine if people who cannot afford to pay are given some concessions in electricity rates. But if it is given to everyone, what culture are we creating, asked the court, adding that those who can pay should be made to pay.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-this-is-tax-money-supreme-court-slams-poll-eve-freebie-culture-questions-fiscal-logic-1771496414543">‘This is tax money’: Supreme Court slams poll-eve freebie culture, questions fiscal logic</a>&nbsp;The court said: It is understandable that you want to provide, as part of a welfare system, for those who cannot pay electricity charges. But without drawing a distinction between those who can afford and those who cannot, if you start distributing… will it not amount kind of an appeasing policy?”<h2>Freebies politics: This is not the first time that the Indian top court took up the matter</h2>The Chief Justice also reminded that the various political parties offering freebies ahead of elections are currently under its examination.Pre-poll largesse has become a malice in Indian politics, and the Supreme Court has been cognizant of the matter in the past few years.In February 2025, the apex court criticised election-time free rations and cash transfers, saying they discourage people from working and risk creating dependency. During the hearing, the court questioned whether schemes like 'Ladli Behna' announced around elections were fostering a culture where people are unwilling to work.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-criticises-freebies-says-people-not-willing-to-work-8715261">Supreme court criticises freebies, says people not willing to work</a>&nbsp;In January this year, it said the issue of pre-poll freebies, including the distribution of cash and other goods, is an important matter requiring serious examination.In January, 2022 the Supreme Court described the promise of freebies during election campaigns as a serious issue. At the time, it sought responses from the Centre and the Election Commission on regulating the practice.In the Subramaniam Balaji case of 2013, the court declined to strike down welfare schemes involving distribution of goods like televisions and laptops. But it acknowledged concerns about freebies. It left the regulation of such promises to the Election Commission and Parliament.

India's Supreme Court slammed pre-election freebies, this time in a case on free electricity in Tamil Nadu. The top court has targeted such schemes in cash or kind, warning they harm fiscal discipline, economic development and work culture

India's Supreme Court has once again criticised pre-poll freebies, this time taking issue with plans to provide free electricity ahead of the Tamil Nadu state elections. In its observations on Thursday (Feb 19), the court said that even states that are not financially doing well are offering such freebies. It slammed indiscriminate free electricity and other benefits by revenue-deficient states, warning that such largesse harms economic development and work culture. But we have been here before. The apex court has often been reluctant to make any specific ruling to regulate the matter, leaving it to the election body and parliament. It leaves a grey area that often allows pre-election freebies to thrive, possibly affecting election outcomes for years now. Here is an analysis. What the Indian Supreme Court said on pre-election freebies The court agreed that freebies might be appropriate for poor people, but said that when they are given to everyone, it amounts to appeasement. It called for a re-examination of policies that are affecting progress. “Most of the states in the country are revenue deficit states and yet they are offering such freebies,” said the court. “The economic development of the nation will be hampered by this kind of largesse distribution. It is the state’s duty to provide welfare, but those who are enjoying freebies, is that not something which needs to be examined?,” it added. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-people-get-freebies-why-work-apex-court-8715346/embed Why Indian Supreme Court made observation on freebies during elections Over the years, it has become very common in Indian states to offer various freebies — services and products — ahead of elections, including direct cash transfers into people's bank accounts. The court said that, as a welfare state, it is acceptable to give concessions to poor people, but even states without adequate income are offering universal freebies. The Supreme Court bench, chaired by Chief Justice Surya Kant, was hearing a plea filed by the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation. The company had challenged the 2024 central electricity reforms, which mandate strict financial discipline for power-distribution firms. Issuing notice to the Centre in the case, the Supreme Court expressed its displeasure that such freebies are being offered not only in Tamil Nadu, but across the nation. Chief Justice Surya Kant said the court is aware of what happened in the recent state elections, including direct money transfer programmes. The court observed that, instead of spending money on development projects, states are using funds for large-scale freebies and salaries. Who will work if government gives freebies? Supreme Court's sharp rebuke If food, bicycles and electricity are given free of cost, who will go to work, the court asked. "If you start giving free food from morning to evening, then free cycles, then free electricity, who will work? And what will happen to the work culture?” It is fine if people who cannot afford to pay are given some concessions in electricity rates. But if it is given to everyone, what culture are we creating, asked the court, adding that those who can pay should be made to pay. Also read: ‘This is tax money’: Supreme Court slams poll-eve freebie culture, questions fiscal logic The court said: It is understandable that you want to provide, as part of a welfare system, for those who cannot pay electricity charges. But without drawing a distinction between those who can afford and those who cannot, if you start distributing… will it not amount kind of an appeasing policy?” Freebies politics: This is not the first time that the Indian top court took up the matter The Chief Justice also reminded that the various political parties offering freebies ahead of elections are currently under its examination. Pre-poll largesse has become a malice in Indian politics, and the Supreme Court has been cognizant of the matter in the past few years. In February 2025, the apex court criticised election-time free rations and cash transfers, saying they discourage people from working and risk creating dependency. During the hearing, the court questioned whether schemes like 'Ladli Behna' announced around elections were fostering a culture where people are unwilling to work. Also read: Supreme court criticises freebies, says people not willing to work In January this year, it said the issue of pre-poll freebies, including the distribution of cash and other goods, is an important matter requiring serious examination. In January, 2022 the Supreme Court described the promise of freebies during election campaigns as a serious issue. At the time, it sought responses from the Centre and the Election Commission on regulating the practice. In the Subramaniam Balaji case of 2013, the court declined to strike down welfare schemes involving distribution of goods like televisions and laptops. But it acknowledged concerns about freebies. It left the regulation of such promises to the Election Commission and Parliament.

India's Supreme Court slammed pre-election freebies, this time in a case on free electricity in Tamil Nadu. The top court has targeted such schemes in cash or kind, warning they harm fiscal discipline, economic development and work culture

Indian Supreme Court slams freebies before elections, and it's not the first time. But can anything be done about it?

The tourist stakeholders and tourists in the valley have expressed happiness and cheer after the reopening of 14 destinations across Jammu and Kashmir. The visitors expressed joy and relief after months of closure following the Pahalgam terror attack. Hundreds of tourists were seen thronging scenic spots such as Doodhpathri in central Kashmir’s Budgam district, enjoying the snow-clad mountains after the destination remained closed for nearly a year. The reopening has revived the vibrant atmosphere that typically marks the start of the tourist season in the Valley.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-manav-vision-pm-narendra-modi-unveils-groundbreaking-ai-framework-at-india-ai-impact-summit-2026-explained-1771482004727">What is MANAV Vision? PM Narendra Modi unveils groundbreaking AI framework</a>Officials stated that comprehensive arrangements have been made to ensure the safety and convenience of visitors. With the entire area blanketed in snow, the administration has also announced plans to introduce skiing activities to enhance the tourist experience. A significant deployment of security personnel was observed at the Doodhpathri tourist spot.“We have reopened the destination as winter draws to a close. As you can see, the entire area is covered in snow, and we intend to make the most of it. We also want to send out a clear message that Doodhpathri is open to visitors so that tourist footfall increases. A large number of tourists have already visited, and we are optimistic that we will continue to attract more people to this destination,” said Reyaz Beigh, CEO, Tourism Development Authority DoodhPathri.Among the major attractions reopened is the iconic, Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar city, which traditionally opens in the first week of April and signals the beginning of the spring tourism season in the Kashmir Valley.“Kashmir is often called paradise on earth, and it truly lives up to that name. It is incredibly beautiful here, even more enchanting than Sonamarg. The snow-covered landscapes are simply breathtaking. Everyone should visit Kashmir at least once to experience its stunning scenery and the warm hospitality of the Valley,” said a tourist.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-son-in-law-rishi-sunak-says-ai-can-do-many-things-but-can-t-fix-delhi-s-traffic-viral-video-here-1771549049816">India's 'son-in-law' Rishi Sunak says 'AI can do many things, but can't fix Delhi’s traffic'. Viral video HERE</a>Earlier this week, the administration of Jammu and Kashmir ordered the immediate reopening of 14 tourist destinations across both the Kashmir and Jammu divisions. The decision followed a comprehensive security review and detailed consultations with relevant agencies.Officials said the sites had been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure after the April 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam. Authorities have now concluded that the security situation allows for a phased reopening to visitors.Authorities said that 11 Tourist Spots Reopened in the Kashmir Division, which includes Yusmarg, Doodhpathri (Budgam), Dandipora Park (Kokernag), Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan (Shopian), Padpawan (Shopian), Astanpora, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Thajwas Glacier, Hung Parkand Wular Lake (Watlab area). &nbsp;Meanwhile, three tourist spots have been reopened in the Jammu Division, which include Devi Pindi, Mahu Mangat, and Mughal Maidan.Authorities further announced that four additional destinations will reopen once snow clearance operations are completed. These include Gurez Valley, Athwango, Bangus Valley and Ramkund.&nbsp;

Hundreds of tourists were seen thronging scenic spots such as Doodhpathri in central Kashmir’s Budgam district, enjoying the snow-clad mountains after the destination remained closed for nearly a year. 

The tourist stakeholders and tourists in the valley have expressed happiness and cheer after the reopening of 14 destinations across Jammu and Kashmir. The visitors expressed joy and relief after months of closure following the Pahalgam terror attack. Hundreds of tourists were seen thronging scenic spots such as Doodhpathri in central Kashmir’s Budgam district, enjoying the snow-clad mountains after the destination remained closed for nearly a year. The reopening has revived the vibrant atmosphere that typically marks the start of the tourist season in the Valley. Also read | What is MANAV Vision? PM Narendra Modi unveils groundbreaking AI framework Officials stated that comprehensive arrangements have been made to ensure the safety and convenience of visitors. With the entire area blanketed in snow, the administration has also announced plans to introduce skiing activities to enhance the tourist experience. A significant deployment of security personnel was observed at the Doodhpathri tourist spot. “We have reopened the destination as winter draws to a close. As you can see, the entire area is covered in snow, and we intend to make the most of it. We also want to send out a clear message that Doodhpathri is open to visitors so that tourist footfall increases. A large number of tourists have already visited, and we are optimistic that we will continue to attract more people to this destination,” said Reyaz Beigh, CEO, Tourism Development Authority DoodhPathri. Among the major attractions reopened is the iconic, Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar city, which traditionally opens in the first week of April and signals the beginning of the spring tourism season in the Kashmir Valley. “Kashmir is often called paradise on earth, and it truly lives up to that name. It is incredibly beautiful here, even more enchanting than Sonamarg. The snow-covered landscapes are simply breathtaking. Everyone should visit Kashmir at least once to experience its stunning scenery and the warm hospitality of the Valley,” said a tourist. Also read | India's 'son-in-law' Rishi Sunak says 'AI can do many things, but can't fix Delhi’s traffic'. Viral video HERE Earlier this week, the administration of Jammu and Kashmir ordered the immediate reopening of 14 tourist destinations across both the Kashmir and Jammu divisions. The decision followed a comprehensive security review and detailed consultations with relevant agencies. Officials said the sites had been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure after the April 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam. Authorities have now concluded that the security situation allows for a phased reopening to visitors. Authorities said that 11 Tourist Spots Reopened in the Kashmir Division, which includes Yusmarg, Doodhpathri (Budgam), Dandipora Park (Kokernag), Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan (Shopian), Padpawan (Shopian), Astanpora, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Thajwas Glacier, Hung Parkand Wular Lake (Watlab area). Meanwhile, three tourist spots have been reopened in the Jammu Division, which include Devi Pindi, Mahu Mangat, and Mughal Maidan. Authorities further announced that four additional destinations will reopen once snow clearance operations are completed. These include Gurez Valley, Athwango, Bangus Valley and Ramkund.

Hundreds of tourists were seen thronging scenic spots such as Doodhpathri in central Kashmir’s Budgam district, enjoying the snow-clad mountains after the destination remained closed for nearly a year.&nbsp;

Tourist footfall returns to Kashmir as key destinations reopen nearly a year after Pahalgam terror attack

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak opened his remarks in New Delhi with a touch of humour, blaming the capital's traffic for a slight delay at a joint session at the British High Commission. "AI can do many things, as we’ve heard this week, but it can’t yet fix Delhi’s traffic," commented the former PM.<h2>Sunak caught in Delhi traffic snarls: Video of tongue-in-cheek comment goes viral</h2>"Sorry, we're a few minutes late, that's entirely my fault. AI can do many things, as we've heard this week, but it can't yet fix Delhi's traffic. So, work to do," Sunak said, drawing laughter from the audience.The event, held alongside UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, came during the India AI Summit, where global leaders and technology experts gathered to discuss the future of artificial intelligence.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-underscores-india-s-demographic-edge-at-ai-summit-2026-calls-event-proud-moment-for-south-asia-1771476015689">AI must serve humans, not the other way: PM Modi at India AI Summit</a>Watch video here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Former UK PM Rishi Sunak says, &quot;...AI can do many things as we&#39;ve heard this week, but it can&#39;t yet fix Delhi&#39;s traffic...&quot; &quot;...But what this week has been is just a showcase of the extraordinary, not just the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, but the energy… <a href="https://t.co/1R0zdfXs4F">pic.twitter.com/1R0zdfXs4F</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2024539684278587465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>India in a "medal position"</h2>Sunak praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for positioning India as a rising AI powerhouse. He said the summit showcased not only political leadership but also the country's drive to build and deploy advanced technologies at scale.Referring to global rankings compiled by Stanford University, Sunak noted that India has moved into what he called a "medal position" as an AI superpower. "India, now, according to Stanford, who do the world rankings, moved into one of the medal positions as an AI superpower in the world, which is something that many of you here should be proud of," he told the audience.He added that India had effectively leapfrogged the UK in the AI race, though he could not resist a playful dig. "If you look at the ICC test rankings, England is still ahead, which arguably is more important," he joked.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-manav-vision-pm-narendra-modi-unveils-groundbreaking-ai-framework-at-india-ai-impact-summit-2026-explained-1771482004727">What is MANAV Vision? PM Narendra Modi unveils groundbreaking AI framework</a><h2>Sunak's India connect</h2>Lammy introduced Sunak as "a great son of the United Kingdom and also a great son of India." Sunak quickly corrected him with a smile: "Son-in-law," prompting laughter across the room.Lammy also highlighted his own Indian roots, mentioning that his great-grandmother was from Calcutta.&nbsp;

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joked about being delayed by Delhi traffic at the India AI Summit, saying AI can do many things, but cannot fix the National Capital's congestion yet. Have a look.

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak opened his remarks in New Delhi with a touch of humour, blaming the capital's traffic for a slight delay at a joint session at the British High Commission. "AI can do many things, as we’ve heard this week, but it can’t yet fix Delhi’s traffic," commented the former PM. Sunak caught in Delhi traffic snarls: Video of tongue-in-cheek comment goes viral "Sorry, we're a few minutes late, that's entirely my fault. AI can do many things, as we've heard this week, but it can't yet fix Delhi's traffic. So, work to do," Sunak said, drawing laughter from the audience. The event, held alongside UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, came during the India AI Summit, where global leaders and technology experts gathered to discuss the future of artificial intelligence. Also read | AI must serve humans, not the other way: PM Modi at India AI Summit Watch video here:

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joked about being delayed by Delhi traffic at the India AI Summit, saying AI can do many things, but cannot fix the National Capital's congestion yet. Have a look.

India's 'son-in-law' Rishi Sunak says 'AI can do many things, but can't fix Delhi’s traffic'. Viral video HERE

India’s higher education system is no longer operating in the shadows of Western academia; it is carving out a distinct global identity of its own. Powered by AI-driven learning, deep industry integration, regulatory reform, and expanding international collaborations, Indian institutions are repositioning themselves as hubs of innovation, scale, and purpose.What is emerging is not merely a catch-up story, but a structural shift: classrooms embedded with live industry projects, curricula co-designed by corporate leaders and scholars, research rooted in real-world challenges, and global faculty exchanges that bring diverse perspectives into Indian campuses. Education in India is increasingly defined by outcomes, adaptability, and global relevance.<h2>Industry integration, AI, and global collaboration</h2>Dr. S. Arunachalam, Dean, Badruka School of Management (BSM), identifies experiential learning as a defining transformation. “Gone are the days when the industry and educational connection was limited to internships and placements,” he says. After foundational coursework, students are intentionally engaged in live projects with industry partners. At BSM, this has taken shape through the “Pracademic” model, where practitioners and academicians jointly design and deliver programs. Faculty includes business leaders alongside PhD scholars, ensuring theory and practice move together. He adds that AI-enabled, globally connected programs are increasingly common across Indian institutions, reflecting a maturing ecosystem strengthened by reforms aligned with NEP 2020 and Viksit Shiksha Bill.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-11-jets-shot-in-india-pak-war-trump-changes-figures-again-hikes-tally-of-fighter-planes-1771511733690">‘11 jets shot in India-Pak war’: Trump changes figures again, hikes tally of fighter planes</a>&nbsp;Dr. Shruti Sharma, Dean of Academic Affairs at Thapar Institute of Engineering &amp; Technology, emphasizes that global competitiveness today is defined by “relevance, rigor, and responsibility.” She highlights a shift toward interdisciplinary, problem-driven research in climate resilience, sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, healthcare, and digital transformation. “India is no longer only a talent exporter; it is emerging as a global knowledge hub,” she says, noting that joint research initiatives, faculty exchanges, and co-supervised doctoral programs are raising academic standards while maintaining local relevance.&nbsp;Prof. Sanmeet Sidhu of Thapar Institute describes the transformation as a move from degree-centric to outcome-driven education. The integration of AI, data science, and digital tools into pedagogy, alongside real-world projects and industry certifications, ensures graduates are workplace-ready. With global companies expanding operations in India, students benefit from proximity to innovation ecosystems while retaining affordability and contextual relevance.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-new-estimates-show-75-000-people-killed-in-gaza-during-the-first-16-months-of-war-wion-1771523057953/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-new-estimates-show-75-000-people-killed-in-gaza-during-the-first-16-months-of-war-wion-1771523057953/embed</a>&nbsp;Anil Sachdev, Founder of SOIL Institute of Management, underscores the importance of interdisciplinary learning encouraged under the National Education Policy. Blending liberal arts with technology and business, he argues, builds the capacity to think critically and engage meaningfully with global challenges such as climate change and inequality.He also stresses integrating Indian wisdom traditions and ethics into modern education. “These shifts position India as a source of education that the world increasingly needs, one that combines intellectual rigor, technological capability, and a deeper sense of purpose,” he says.<h3>Research, ecosystems, and global recognition</h3>Leaders across institutions agree that India’s rising academic stature rests on a combination of innovative curricula, high-quality research output, and a synergistic ecosystem connecting academia, industry, and government. Market-relevant research, particularly India-specific studies with global application, is enhancing credibility. International collaborations are not merely symbolic partnerships but vehicles for joint curriculum design, research expansion, and cultural exchange. Twinning programs and faculty mobility initiatives are broadening exposure for students and strengthening institutional rankings.&nbsp;Government reforms, outcome-based frameworks, and increased research funding are acting as enablers in this transformation. Combined with India’s scale, demographic advantage, and rapid technological adoption, these shifts are positioning the country as more than a destination for cost-effective education, but as a serious global knowledge powerhouse. In the words of Dr. Sharma, world-class education is no longer defined by geography, but by impact, and India is increasingly shaping that impact on a global stage.

From AI to experiential learning: How Indian campuses are redefining global standards

India’s higher education system is no longer operating in the shadows of Western academia; it is carving out a distinct global identity of its own. Powered by AI-driven learning, deep industry integration, regulatory reform, and expanding international collaborations, Indian institutions are repositioning themselves as hubs of innovation, scale, and purpose. What is emerging is not merely a catch-up story, but a structural shift: classrooms embedded with live industry projects, curricula co-designed by corporate leaders and scholars, research rooted in real-world challenges, and global faculty exchanges that bring diverse perspectives into Indian campuses. Education in India is increasingly defined by outcomes, adaptability, and global relevance. Industry integration, AI, and global collaboration Dr. S. Arunachalam, Dean, Badruka School of Management (BSM), identifies experiential learning as a defining transformation. “Gone are the days when the industry and educational connection was limited to internships and placements,” he says. After foundational coursework, students are intentionally engaged in live projects with industry partners. At BSM, this has taken shape through the “Pracademic” model, where practitioners and academicians jointly design and deliver programs. Faculty includes business leaders alongside PhD scholars, ensuring theory and practice move together. He adds that AI-enabled, globally connected programs are increasingly common across Indian institutions, reflecting a maturing ecosystem strengthened by reforms aligned with NEP 2020 and Viksit Shiksha Bill. Also Read: ‘11 jets shot in India-Pak war’: Trump changes figures again, hikes tally of fighter planes Dr. Shruti Sharma, Dean of Academic Affairs at Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, emphasizes that global competitiveness today is defined by “relevance, rigor, and responsibility.” She highlights a shift toward interdisciplinary, problem-driven research in climate resilience, sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, healthcare, and digital transformation. “India is no longer only a talent exporter; it is emerging as a global knowledge hub,” she says, noting that joint research initiatives, faculty exchanges, and co-supervised doctoral programs are raising academic standards while maintaining local relevance. Prof. Sanmeet Sidhu of Thapar Institute describes the transformation as a move from degree-centric to outcome-driven education. The integration of AI, data science, and digital tools into pedagogy, alongside real-world projects and industry certifications, ensures graduates are workplace-ready. With global companies expanding operations in India, students benefit from proximity to innovation ecosystems while retaining affordability and contextual relevance. https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-new-estimates-show-75-000-people-killed-in-gaza-during-the-first-16-months-of-war-wion-1771523057953/embed Anil Sachdev, Founder of SOIL Institute of Management, underscores the importance of interdisciplinary learning encouraged under the National Education Policy. Blending liberal arts with technology and business, he argues, builds the capacity to think critically and engage meaningfully with global challenges such as climate change and inequality. He also stresses integrating Indian wisdom traditions and ethics into modern education. “These shifts position India as a source of education that the world increasingly needs, one that combines intellectual rigor, technological capability, and a deeper sense of purpose,” he says. Research, ecosystems, and global recognition Leaders across institutions agree that India’s rising academic stature rests on a combination of innovative curricula, high-quality research output, and a synergistic ecosystem connecting academia, industry, and government. Market-relevant research, particularly India-specific studies with global application, is enhancing credibility. International collaborations are not merely symbolic partnerships but vehicles for joint curriculum design, research expansion, and cultural exchange. Twinning programs and faculty mobility initiatives are broadening exposure for students and strengthening institutional rankings. Government reforms, outcome-based frameworks, and increased research funding are acting as enablers in this transformation. Combined with India’s scale, demographic advantage, and rapid technological adoption, these shifts are positioning the country as more than a destination for cost-effective education, but as a serious global knowledge powerhouse. In the words of Dr. Sharma, world-class education is no longer defined by geography, but by impact, and India is increasingly shaping that impact on a global stage.

Indian higher education is going global through AI integration, experiential learning, global collaborations, and industry-ready curricula

New Delhi: Canada’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, Evan Solomon, has highlighted the accelerating momentum in trilateral cooperation between Canada, India, and Australia on emerging technologies, with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI).&nbsp;Speaking to media in Delhi, Solomon described the countries as natural allies in the AI domain, noting that “Canada has been on the frontier of AI” and “India has been on the frontier,” bolstered by cross-border talent flows, including Canadians working for Indian companies.&nbsp;He pointed to the Australia-Canada-India Technology and Innovation (ACITI) Partnership, launched in November 2025 during the G20 summit in Johannesburg, as a key framework advancing collaboration in life sciences, mining (particularly critical minerals), and AI safety.&nbsp;The trilateral initiative, agreed upon by Prime Minister Mark Carney, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, aims to build resilient supply chains, promote green energy innovation, and drive responsible AI development for inclusive societal benefits.&nbsp;Solomon stressed rapid progress, saying officials had “moved a lot on framework” and brought forward business and investment cases. India, he noted, is particularly interested in “governing solutions that are technical,” with the partnership expected to “bear fruits quickly”.&nbsp;The minister explained the AI Summit’s importance, referencing India’s call for an inclusive AI revolution, a priority shared by Canada. “This is really an important summit. India has made a remark. AI revolution should be inclusive. For Canada, it’s really important,” Solomon said.&nbsp;He also previewed heightened engagement, revealing that Prime Minister Carney is scheduled to visit India in the coming weeks (early March), where deeper bilateral and trilateral discussions are anticipated. This follows Solomon’s own participation in the ongoing AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, where Canada is seeking to strengthen AI ties, attract investment, and expand opportunities for Canadian firms in India’s dynamic tech ecosystem.&nbsp;Solomon’s portfolio, established in 2025 as Canada’s first dedicated AI ministry, focuses on harnessing the technology’s economic potential while ensuring inclusive and safe adoption. The ACITI framework builds on shared democratic values and complementary strengths: Canada’s AI research expertise, India’s vast engineering talent and market scale, and Australia’s resources in critical minerals are essential for AI infrastructure and clean energy.

Canada’s AI minister Evan Solomon described the countries as natural allies in the AI domain, noting that Canada has been on the frontier of AI and India has been on the frontier, bolstered by cross-border talent flows, including Canadians working for Indian companies.

New Delhi: Canada’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, Evan Solomon, has highlighted the accelerating momentum in trilateral cooperation between Canada, India, and Australia on emerging technologies, with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking to media in Delhi, Solomon described the countries as natural allies in the AI domain, noting that “Canada has been on the frontier of AI” and “India has been on the frontier,” bolstered by cross-border talent flows, including Canadians working for Indian companies. He pointed to the Australia-Canada-India Technology and Innovation (ACITI) Partnership, launched in November 2025 during the G20 summit in Johannesburg, as a key framework advancing collaboration in life sciences, mining (particularly critical minerals), and AI safety. The trilateral initiative, agreed upon by Prime Minister Mark Carney, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, aims to build resilient supply chains, promote green energy innovation, and drive responsible AI development for inclusive societal benefits. Solomon stressed rapid progress, saying officials had “moved a lot on framework” and brought forward business and investment cases. India, he noted, is particularly interested in “governing solutions that are technical,” with the partnership expected to “bear fruits quickly”. The minister explained the AI Summit’s importance, referencing India’s call for an inclusive AI revolution, a priority shared by Canada. “This is really an important summit. India has made a remark. AI revolution should be inclusive. For Canada, it’s really important,” Solomon said. He also previewed heightened engagement, revealing that Prime Minister Carney is scheduled to visit India in the coming weeks (early March), where deeper bilateral and trilateral discussions are anticipated. This follows Solomon’s own participation in the ongoing AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, where Canada is seeking to strengthen AI ties, attract investment, and expand opportunities for Canadian firms in India’s dynamic tech ecosystem. Solomon’s portfolio, established in 2025 as Canada’s first dedicated AI ministry, focuses on harnessing the technology’s economic potential while ensuring inclusive and safe adoption. The ACITI framework builds on shared democratic values and complementary strengths: Canada’s AI research expertise, India’s vast engineering talent and market scale, and Australia’s resources in critical minerals are essential for AI infrastructure and clean energy.

Canada’s AI minister Evan Solomon described the countries as natural allies in the AI domain, noting that Canada has been on the frontier of AI and India has been on the frontier, bolstered by cross-border talent flows, including Canadians working for Indian companies.

Canada’s AI minister hails ‘natural alliance’ with India ahead of Carney visit

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