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India has successfully conducted trials for its indigenous naval anti-ship missile, showcasing its advanced precision strike capability. The missile, developed by DRDO, can retarget in flight, making it a significant addition to the Indian Navy’s arsenal. The Defence Minister praised the achievement, calling it a milestone in India’s defense technology.

India successfully tests indigenous naval missile with precision strike capability

An earthquake of magnitude five on the Richter scale struck Assam&rsquo;s Morigaon district in the early hours of Thursday, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS).
According to NCS, the earthquake occurred at 2:25 am at a depth of 16 kilometres.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7mt0w8s-mv59xxic-crcxp7pe">
EQ of M: 5.0, On: 27/02/2025 02:25:40 IST, Lat: 26.28 N, Long: 92.24 E, Depth: 16 Km, Location: Morigaon, Assam. For more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0">https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrJitendraSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrJitendraSingh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfDrJS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficeOfDrJS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravi_MoES?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ravi_MoES</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/x6y5vHaGjg">pic.twitter.com/x6y5vHaGjg</a>
&mdash; National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1894859388319605072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
"EQ of M: 5.0, On: 27/02/2025 02:25:40 IST, Lat: 26.28 N, Long: 92.24 E, Depth: 16 Km, Location: Morigaon, Assam,&rdquo; the NCS said on X.
Earlier, an earthquake of magnitude 5.1 on the Richter scale struck the Bay of Bengal in the early hours of Tuesday. According to NCS, the earthquake occurred at 6:10 am at a depth of 91 kilometres.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-51-magnitude-earthquake-hits-kolkata-8753797">India: 5.1 magnitude earthquake hits Bay of Bengal</a>
&ldquo;EQ of M: 5.1, On: 25/02/2025 06:10:25 IST, Lat: 19.52 N, Long: 88.55 E, Depth: 91 Km, Location: Bay of Bengal,&rdquo; the NCS said on X.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

A magnitude earthquake hit Assam's Morigaon district early Thursday, as reported by the National Center for Seismology.

An earthquake of magnitude five on the Richter scale struck Assam’s Morigaon district in the early hours of Thursday, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS). According to NCS, the earthquake occurred at 2:25 am at a depth of 16 kilometres. EQ of M: 5.0, On: 27/02/2025 02:25:40 IST, Lat: 26.28 N, Long: 92.24 E, Depth: 16 Km, Location: Morigaon, Assam. For more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0 @DrJitendraSingh @OfficeOfDrJS @Ravi_MoES @Dr_Mishra1966 @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/x6y5vHaGjg — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) February 26, 2025 "EQ of M: 5.0, On: 27/02/2025 02:25:40 IST, Lat: 26.28 N, Long: 92.24 E, Depth: 16 Km, Location: Morigaon, Assam,” the NCS said on X. Earlier, an earthquake of magnitude 5.1 on the Richter scale struck the Bay of Bengal in the early hours of Tuesday. According to NCS, the earthquake occurred at 6:10 am at a depth of 91 kilometres. Also read | India: 5.1 magnitude earthquake hits Bay of Bengal “EQ of M: 5.1, On: 25/02/2025 06:10:25 IST, Lat: 19.52 N, Long: 88.55 E, Depth: 91 Km, Location: Bay of Bengal,” the NCS said on X. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Assam's Morigaon shaken by 5.0 magnitude earthquake: NCS

India delivered a scathing critique to Pakistan at the seventh meeting of the 58th Session of UN Human Rights Council, labeling it a "failed state" that thrives on instability and survives on international handouts.
India's Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva, Kshitij Tyagi, fired back at Pakistan's allegations of human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing the Pakistani leadership of spreading falsehoods dictated by its military. Tyagi's rebuttal came in response to Pakistani Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar's claims.
"It is regrettable to see Pakistan's leaders and delegates continuing to spread falsehoods handed down by its military terrorist complex. Pakistan is making a mockery of the OIC by abusing it as its mouthpiece. It is unfortunate that this Council's time continues to be wasted by a failed state which thrives on instability and survives on international handouts. Its rhetoric reeks of hypocrisy, its actions of inhumanity and its governance of incompetence. India remains focused on democracy, progress and ensuring dignity for its people. Values that Pakistan would do well to learn from," Tyagi said.
Further continuing the rebuttal, Tyagi said that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh will always be a part of India as progress and development in these areas speak for themselves.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7mrr6mg-rgzejwn0-3z2tpakg">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Geneva: At the 7th Meeting - 58th Session of Human Rights Council, Indian Diplomat Kshitij Tyagi says, "India is exercising its right of reply in response to the baseless and malicious references made by Pakistan. It is regrettable to see Pakistan's so-called leaders and&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/7Bg5j8jZJX">pic.twitter.com/7Bg5j8jZJX</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1894822513575940477?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
"The Union Territories of J&amp;K and Ladakh will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The unprecedented political, social and economic progress in J&amp;K in the past few years speaks for itself. These successes are a testament to the people's trust in the government's commitment to bring normalcy to a region scarred by decades of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. As a country where human rights abuses, persecution of minorities and systematic erosion of democratic values constitute state policies and which brazenly harbours UN-sanctioned terrorists, Pakistan is in no position to lecture anyone," he said.
Tyagi emphasised that Pakistan needs to get over its obsession with India and instead concentrate on addressing the pressing issues affecting its own citizens.
"Instead of its unhealthy obsession with India, Pakistan should focus on providing actual governance and justice to its own people. It is unfortunate that this Council's time continues to be wasted by a failed state which thrives on instability and survives on international handouts. It's rhetoric reeks of hypocrisy, its actions of inhumanity and its governance of incompetence. India remains focused on democracy, progress and ensuring dignity for its people. Values that Pakistan would do well to learn from," he said.
<h2>'Malicious' references</h2>
He then said that the remarks were a response to 'malicious' references made by Pakistan and spreading falsehoods.
"India is exercising its right of reply in response to the baseless and malicious references made by Pakistan," he said.
Tyagi's remarks came after India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir is and will always remain an integral part of India, while also condemning Pakistan's misinformation campaigns.
"The Deputy PM and Foreign Minister of Pakistan have referred to an integral and inalienable part of India, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in his remarks. I would like to reaffirm that the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been, is, and will always be, an integral and inalienable part of India," Harish said while delivering India's statement at the Open Debate in the United Nations Security Council on Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: India's Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva, Kshitij Tyagi, fired back at Pakistan's allegations of human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing the Pakistani leadership of spreading falsehoods dictated by its military.

India delivered a scathing critique to Pakistan at the seventh meeting of the 58th Session of UN Human Rights Council, labeling it a "failed state" that thrives on instability and survives on international handouts. India's Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva, Kshitij Tyagi, fired back at Pakistan's allegations of human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing the Pakistani leadership of spreading falsehoods dictated by its military. Tyagi's rebuttal came in response to Pakistani Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar's claims. "It is regrettable to see Pakistan's leaders and delegates continuing to spread falsehoods handed down by its military terrorist complex. Pakistan is making a mockery of the OIC by abusing it as its mouthpiece. It is unfortunate that this Council's time continues to be wasted by a failed state which thrives on instability and survives on international handouts. Its rhetoric reeks of hypocrisy, its actions of inhumanity and its governance of incompetence. India remains focused on democracy, progress and ensuring dignity for its people. Values that Pakistan would do well to learn from," Tyagi said. Further continuing the rebuttal, Tyagi said that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh will always be a part of India as progress and development in these areas speak for themselves. #WATCH | Geneva: At the 7th Meeting - 58th Session of Human Rights Council, Indian Diplomat Kshitij Tyagi says, "India is exercising its right of reply in response to the baseless and malicious references made by Pakistan. It is regrettable to see Pakistan's so-called leaders and… pic.twitter.com/7Bg5j8jZJX — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2025 "The Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India. The unprecedented political, social and economic progress in J&K in the past few years speaks for itself. These successes are a testament to the people's trust in the government's commitment to bring normalcy to a region scarred by decades of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. As a country where human rights abuses, persecution of minorities and systematic erosion of democratic values constitute state policies and which brazenly harbours UN-sanctioned terrorists, Pakistan is in no position to lecture anyone," he said. Tyagi emphasised that Pakistan needs to get over its obsession with India and instead concentrate on addressing the pressing issues affecting its own citizens. "Instead of its unhealthy obsession with India, Pakistan should focus on providing actual governance and justice to its own people. It is unfortunate that this Council's time continues to be wasted by a failed state which thrives on instability and survives on international handouts. It's rhetoric reeks of hypocrisy, its actions of inhumanity and its governance of incompetence. India remains focused on democracy, progress and ensuring dignity for its people. Values that Pakistan would do well to learn from," he said. 'Malicious' references He then said that the remarks were a response to 'malicious' references made by Pakistan and spreading falsehoods. "India is exercising its right of reply in response to the baseless and malicious references made by Pakistan," he said. Tyagi's remarks came after India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir is and will always remain an integral part of India, while also condemning Pakistan's misinformation campaigns. "The Deputy PM and Foreign Minister of Pakistan have referred to an integral and inalienable part of India, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in his remarks. I would like to reaffirm that the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been, is, and will always be, an integral and inalienable part of India," Harish said while delivering India's statement at the Open Debate in the United Nations Security Council on Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance. (With inputs from agencies)

'Pakistan a failed state that survives on handouts and thrives on instability': India At UN

The Central government has opposed a plea in the Supreme Court seeking a lifetime ban on convicted politicians, saying imposing such a disqualification was solely within the domain of Parliament.
In an affidavit filed in court, the Centre said the prayer in a plea, seeking the same, amounted to re-writing of the statute or directing Parliament to frame a law in a particular manner that was wholly beyond the powers of judicial review.
"The question whether a lifetime ban would be appropriate or not is a question that is solely within the domain of the parliament," the affidavit said.
By confining the operation of penalty to an appropriate length of time, deterrence was ensured while undue harshness was avoided, it added.
There was, said the Centre, nothing inherently unconstitutional in limiting the effect of penalties by time, and it was a settled principle of law that penalties were limited either by time or by quantum.
"It is submitted that issues raised by the petitioner have wide-ranging ramifications and clearly fall within the legislative policy of Parliament, and the contours of judicial review would be suitably altered in such regard," the affidavit said.
The plea in the top court filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay seeks a life ban on convicted politicians aside from the expeditious disposal of criminal cases against MPs and MLAs in the country.
In its affidavit, the Centre underlined the apex court had consistently held that the legislative choice over one option or the other couldn't be questioned in courts over its efficacy or otherwise.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-of-india-dismisses-new-pleas-on-1991-places-of-worship-law-orders-april-hearing-for-pending-petitions-8731473">Supreme Court dismisses new pleas on 1991 Places of Worship law, orders April hearing for pending petitions</a>
Under Section 8 (1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the period of disqualification was six years from the date of conviction or, in the case of imprisonment, six years from the date of release, it added.
"The disqualifications made under the impugned sections are limited by time as a matter of parliamentary policy, and it would not be appropriate to substitute the petitioner's understanding of the issue and impose a lifetime ban," it said.
The Centre said as a matter of judicial review, the court could declare the provisions to be unconstitutional, however, the relief sought by the petitioner effectively sought to read "life-long" instead of "six years" in all sub-sections of Section 8 of the Act.
It said lifetime disqualification was the maximum that could be imposed under the provisions and such a discretion was "certainly within the power of Parliament".
"However, it is one thing to say that a power exists and another to say that it must necessarily be exercised in every case," the Centre argued.
The affidavit said the impugned laws were "constitutionally sound" and "did not suffer from the vice of excess delegation" aside from being intra vires the powers of Parliament.
While imposing any penalty, it said, Parliament considers the principles of proportionality and reasonability, as, for instance, the entirety of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, or penal law, provides for imprisonment or fines up to certain limits, and the rationale behind it was that the punitive measures would co-relate with the gravity of the offence.
There were numerous penal laws that prescribe imposing restrictions on the exercise of rights and freedoms, which in most cases are time-specific, it said.
The Centre said the petition failed to make the crucial distinction between basis of disqualification and effects of disqualification.
"It is true that the basis of disqualification is conviction for an offence and that this basis remains unchanged so long as the conviction stands. The effect of such conviction lasts for a fixed period of time. As stated above, there is nothing inherently unconstitutional in limiting the effect of penalties by time," it said.
The affidavit said the petitioner's reliance on Articles 102 and 191 of the Constitution was totally misplaced.
Articles 102 and 191 of the Constitution deals with disqualifications for membership of either house of parliament, legislative assembly or legislative council.
The Centre said Clause (e) of Articles 102 and 191 were enabling provisions that confer on Parliament the power to make laws governing disqualification and it was in exercise of this power that the 1951 Act was enacted.
"The Constitution has left the field open to Parliament to enact such further law governing disqualifications as it deems fit. Parliament has power both to determine the grounds for disqualification and the duration of disqualification," it said.
The Centre said the grounds for disqualification in the articles included holding of an office of profit, unsoundness of mind, insolvency and not being a citizen of India.
"It is submitted that these are not permanent disqualifications," it added.
The apex court on 10 February sought responses of the Centre and the Election Commission on the challenge to the constitutional validity of Sections 8 and 9 of Representation of People Act.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news: "The question whether a lifetime ban would be appropriate or not is a question that is solely within the domain of the parliament," the affidavit said.

The Central government has opposed a plea in the Supreme Court seeking a lifetime ban on convicted politicians, saying imposing such a disqualification was solely within the domain of Parliament. In an affidavit filed in court, the Centre said the prayer in a plea, seeking the same, amounted to re-writing of the statute or directing Parliament to frame a law in a particular manner that was wholly beyond the powers of judicial review. "The question whether a lifetime ban would be appropriate or not is a question that is solely within the domain of the parliament," the affidavit said. By confining the operation of penalty to an appropriate length of time, deterrence was ensured while undue harshness was avoided, it added. There was, said the Centre, nothing inherently unconstitutional in limiting the effect of penalties by time, and it was a settled principle of law that penalties were limited either by time or by quantum. "It is submitted that issues raised by the petitioner have wide-ranging ramifications and clearly fall within the legislative policy of Parliament, and the contours of judicial review would be suitably altered in such regard," the affidavit said. The plea in the top court filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay seeks a life ban on convicted politicians aside from the expeditious disposal of criminal cases against MPs and MLAs in the country. In its affidavit, the Centre underlined the apex court had consistently held that the legislative choice over one option or the other couldn't be questioned in courts over its efficacy or otherwise. Also read: Supreme Court dismisses new pleas on 1991 Places of Worship law, orders April hearing for pending petitions Under Section 8 (1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the period of disqualification was six years from the date of conviction or, in the case of imprisonment, six years from the date of release, it added. "The disqualifications made under the impugned sections are limited by time as a matter of parliamentary policy, and it would not be appropriate to substitute the petitioner's understanding of the issue and impose a lifetime ban," it said. The Centre said as a matter of judicial review, the court could declare the provisions to be unconstitutional, however, the relief sought by the petitioner effectively sought to read "life-long" instead of "six years" in all sub-sections of Section 8 of the Act. It said lifetime disqualification was the maximum that could be imposed under the provisions and such a discretion was "certainly within the power of Parliament". "However, it is one thing to say that a power exists and another to say that it must necessarily be exercised in every case," the Centre argued. The affidavit said the impugned laws were "constitutionally sound" and "did not suffer from the vice of excess delegation" aside from being intra vires the powers of Parliament. While imposing any penalty, it said, Parliament considers the principles of proportionality and reasonability, as, for instance, the entirety of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, or penal law, provides for imprisonment or fines up to certain limits, and the rationale behind it was that the punitive measures would co-relate with the gravity of the offence. There were numerous penal laws that prescribe imposing restrictions on the exercise of rights and freedoms, which in most cases are time-specific, it said. The Centre said the petition failed to make the crucial distinction between basis of disqualification and effects of disqualification. "It is true that the basis of disqualification is conviction for an offence and that this basis remains unchanged so long as the conviction stands. The effect of such conviction lasts for a fixed period of time. As stated above, there is nothing inherently unconstitutional in limiting the effect of penalties by time," it said. The affidavit said the petitioner's reliance on Articles 102 and 191 of the Constitution was totally misplaced. Articles 102 and 191 of the Constitution deals with disqualifications for membership of either house of parliament, legislative assembly or legislative council. The Centre said Clause (e) of Articles 102 and 191 were enabling provisions that confer on Parliament the power to make laws governing disqualification and it was in exercise of this power that the 1951 Act was enacted. "The Constitution has left the field open to Parliament to enact such further law governing disqualifications as it deems fit. Parliament has power both to determine the grounds for disqualification and the duration of disqualification," it said. The Centre said the grounds for disqualification in the articles included holding of an office of profit, unsoundness of mind, insolvency and not being a citizen of India. "It is submitted that these are not permanent disqualifications," it added. The apex court on 10 February sought responses of the Centre and the Election Commission on the challenge to the constitutional validity of Sections 8 and 9 of Representation of People Act. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Centre opposes plea seeking lifetime ban on convicted politicians in Supreme Court

A 'Shivling' was found stolen from the Shree Bhidbhanjan Bhavaneeshvar Mahadev temple, located near Harshad Beach in Gujarat's Devbhumi Dwarka district on the eve of Mahashivratri, sparking a massive search operation, said officials.
The priest of the ancient Shiva temple was left stunned when he discovered that the sacred Shivling was uprooted from its spot, along with its base, an official said.
"All other items in the temple were intact in their place," police inspector Akash Barasiya said.&nbsp;
"The base of the Shivling was found lying on the beach nearby, after which a team of scuba divers was roped in to search the stolen Shivling inside sea water as there is a possibility of it being thrown into it," he said.
Superintendent of Police Nitesh Pandey stated that teams have been deployed to locate the allegedly stolen 'Shivling'.&nbsp;
Teams of investigators, scuba divers, and swimmers were also sent to check the area and nearby sea, as authorities suspect the thieves may have hidden it underwater.&nbsp;
"Priest of Bhidbhanjan Bhavaneeshvar Mahadev temple informed police that someone had stolen a 'Shivling' from the temple. Teams have been formed, and an investigation is going on. There is a possibility that someone might have hidden the Shivling in the sea, and hence we have called expert scuba divers and swimmers," Pandey said.
<h2>FIR lodged</h2>
A First Information Report (FIR) was registered under Section 380 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for theft, and a thorough search operation is underway, Barasiya said.
The temple priest said that upon his arrival, he saw the temple door open. When he looked inside, he found that the Shivling was missing from its sacred spot. The priest immediately alerted the authorities, prompting an investigation.
The temple where the incident was reported is considered to be centuries old.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Teams of investigators, scuba divers, and swimmers have been deployed to scour the area and nearby sea, as authorities suspect the thieves may have hidden it underwater.

A 'Shivling' was found stolen from the Shree Bhidbhanjan Bhavaneeshvar Mahadev temple, located near Harshad Beach in Gujarat's Devbhumi Dwarka district on the eve of Mahashivratri, sparking a massive search operation, said officials. The priest of the ancient Shiva temple was left stunned when he discovered that the sacred Shivling was uprooted from its spot, along with its base, an official said. "All other items in the temple were intact in their place," police inspector Akash Barasiya said. "The base of the Shivling was found lying on the beach nearby, after which a team of scuba divers was roped in to search the stolen Shivling inside sea water as there is a possibility of it being thrown into it," he said. Superintendent of Police Nitesh Pandey stated that teams have been deployed to locate the allegedly stolen 'Shivling'. Teams of investigators, scuba divers, and swimmers were also sent to check the area and nearby sea, as authorities suspect the thieves may have hidden it underwater. "Priest of Bhidbhanjan Bhavaneeshvar Mahadev temple informed police that someone had stolen a 'Shivling' from the temple. Teams have been formed, and an investigation is going on. There is a possibility that someone might have hidden the Shivling in the sea, and hence we have called expert scuba divers and swimmers," Pandey said. FIR lodged A First Information Report (FIR) was registered under Section 380 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for theft, and a thorough search operation is underway, Barasiya said. The temple priest said that upon his arrival, he saw the temple door open. When he looked inside, he found that the Shivling was missing from its sacred spot. The priest immediately alerted the authorities, prompting an investigation. The temple where the incident was reported is considered to be centuries old. (With inputs from agencies)

Shivling goes missing from Gujarat temple ahead of Mahashivratri; search operation underway

In a significant move, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expanded his cabinet with seven Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs taking oath as ministers, as the state prepares for assembly polls later this year.
Sanjay Saraogi, Sunil Kumar, Jibesh Mishra, Krishna Kumar Mantoo, Motilal Prasad, Vijay Kumar Mandal, and Raju Kumar Singh took oaths as ministers.
Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary extended warm congratulations to the newly inducted ministers, expressing his confidence that they will tirelessly work towards the development and progress of the state.
"I congratulate all seven ministers who will work for the development of Bihar under the leadership of CM Nitish Kumar," Chaudhary said.
Bihar BJP President Dilip Jaiswal expressed optimism about the cabinet expansion and said that the government and the people will both reap benefits from the experience and expertise of the new ministers.
"Those who have been made ministers today have a long experience and both the government and the public will benefit from it," Jaiswal said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7m24137-nh6wociy-2eivqff0">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Patna | Bihar Cabinet expansion | BJP MLA Vijay Kumar Mandal takes oath as minister <a href="https://t.co/EK8Ph76YCk">pic.twitter.com/EK8Ph76YCk</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1894703735517094013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
This comes after Dilip Jaiswal announced his resignation as minister, stating the party's 'One Person, One Post' norm.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-cm-nitish-kumars-jdu-withdraws-support-from-bjp-govt-in-indias-manipur-8643882">Also read: Nitish Kumar's JD(U) fires Manipur unit chief who claimed party withdrew support to BJP govt in state</a>
"I am going to resign from the post of Revenue Minister. 'One person, one post' is the principle on which the party works. I am thankful that the central leadership has given me the responsibility of the party's state unit," Jaiswal told news agency ANI.&nbsp;
Jaiswal was appointed as the BJP Chief of Bihar on January 18, 2025.
Earlier on Tuesday (Feb 25), Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's son, Nishant Kumar, called on the people of the state to support his father in the assembly elections that are scheduled to take place later this year.
"I urge the people of Bihar to vote for Bihar CM Nitish Kumar as he has done a lot of development in the state. Last time, people gave 43 seats. They should ensure that we win more seats in the elections so that we can continue the pace of development," Nishant Kumar said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Bihar BJP President Dilip Jaiswal expressed optimism about the cabinet expansion and said that the government and the people will both reap benefits from the experience and expertise of the new ministers.

In a significant move, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expanded his cabinet with seven Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs taking oath as ministers, as the state prepares for assembly polls later this year. Sanjay Saraogi, Sunil Kumar, Jibesh Mishra, Krishna Kumar Mantoo, Motilal Prasad, Vijay Kumar Mandal, and Raju Kumar Singh took oaths as ministers. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary extended warm congratulations to the newly inducted ministers, expressing his confidence that they will tirelessly work towards the development and progress of the state. "I congratulate all seven ministers who will work for the development of Bihar under the leadership of CM Nitish Kumar," Chaudhary said. Bihar BJP President Dilip Jaiswal expressed optimism about the cabinet expansion and said that the government and the people will both reap benefits from the experience and expertise of the new ministers. "Those who have been made ministers today have a long experience and both the government and the public will benefit from it," Jaiswal said. #WATCH | Patna | Bihar Cabinet expansion | BJP MLA Vijay Kumar Mandal takes oath as minister pic.twitter.com/EK8Ph76YCk — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2025 This comes after Dilip Jaiswal announced his resignation as minister, stating the party's 'One Person, One Post' norm. Also read: Nitish Kumar's JD(U) fires Manipur unit chief who claimed party withdrew support to BJP govt in state "I am going to resign from the post of Revenue Minister. 'One person, one post' is the principle on which the party works. I am thankful that the central leadership has given me the responsibility of the party's state unit," Jaiswal told news agency ANI. Jaiswal was appointed as the BJP Chief of Bihar on January 18, 2025. Earlier on Tuesday (Feb 25), Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's son, Nishant Kumar, called on the people of the state to support his father in the assembly elections that are scheduled to take place later this year. "I urge the people of Bihar to vote for Bihar CM Nitish Kumar as he has done a lot of development in the state. Last time, people gave 43 seats. They should ensure that we win more seats in the elections so that we can continue the pace of development," Nishant Kumar said. (With inputs from agencies)

Nitish Kumar expands Bihar cabinet ahead of budget session, 7 BJP MLAs take oath

In the presence of political strategist-turned politician Prashant Kishore (referred to as PK), actor-politician Joseph Vijay lashed out at India&rsquo;s ruling BJP and its rival party Tamil Nadu&rsquo;s ruling DMK while addressing his fledgling political party&rsquo;s first anniversary celebration in Mamallapuram. &ldquo;We are an emerging primary political force in Tamil Nadu politics, with a firm commitment to create history in the 2026 state assembly polls, just like it had happened in 1967 and 1977 here,&rdquo; Vijay said.
In his usual style, without naming the respective parties, Vijay took on the BJP and DMK, while referring to the ongoing row between them over the National Education Policy and the Hindi imposition debate. He stated that granting funds for education was the central government&rsquo;s (BJP) duty, while fighting for the rights is the state government&rsquo;s (DMK) duty. Vijay claimed that the recent hashtag wars between the DMK and BJP were &ldquo;pre-planned&rdquo; and that the two ruling parties were fighting in a &ldquo;silly manner&rdquo; over a serious issue.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-20-civil-service-employees-resigned-from-trumps-doge-in-protest-8758303" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Over 20 civil service employees resigned from Trump&rsquo;s DOGE in protest</a>
Vijay also emphasised the importance of booth-level agents who work at the grassroots level and reach out to the masses. He said that his budding party would strengthen its booth-level presence and showcase its strength in the political arena.
<h2>TVK has roped in PK to take on DMK and BJP?</h2>
Prashant Kishore, the political strategist-turned politician, was the &lsquo;chief guest&rsquo; at the anniversary event, where he spoke highly of Vijay and his political party. Interestingly, PK has earlier worked as a political and election strategist with major Indian political parties such as the BJP, Congress, DMK, TMC, and YSRCP, among others.
&ldquo;Vijay&rsquo;s party TVK is a movement of millions who want to see a new political order, this is a time for change, and your party represents change and hope. I am here because of shared values, ideals, ideologies, goals, and desires,&rdquo; PK said of Vijay&rsquo;s party, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Kishore also alleged that Tamil Nadu is the most politically corrupt state in India.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7m1erqv-2ktnq4vr-bbowfm3g">
"I have to become the most popular Bihari in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a>..so, i have to compete with MS Dhoni, who makes IPL team CSK win..I'll make <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TVK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TVK</a> under your leaders win, that's why I'm here" political strategist Prashant Kishore Is this a joke or genuine confidence?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vijay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vijay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TVKVijay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TVKVijay</a> <a href="https://t.co/jKXB19HhbV">pic.twitter.com/jKXB19HhbV</a>
&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1894742464889786550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
 In what is being widely seen as boastfulness, PK also claimed that by making Vijay&rsquo;s party win the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls, he could end up becoming more popular in the state than his fellow Bihari and former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni, who plays for the local Chennai Super Kings IPL team. &ldquo;I will make TVK under your leader win, that is why I am here,&rdquo; PK claimed.&nbsp;
PK added that he would return to Tamil Nadu in 2026 to deliver a &lsquo;thank you speech&rsquo; to the people of the state after the victory of the TVK party.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gaza-number-one-us-president-shares-his-vision-of-post-war-region-with-netanyahu-chilling-by-pool-8758822" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;Trump Gaza number one&rsquo;: US president shares his vision of post-war region, with Netanyahu chilling by pool</a>

India News | Entertainment: “We are an emerging primary political force in Tamil Nadu politics, with a firm commitment to create history in the 2026 state assembly polls, just like it had happened in 1967 and 1977 here,” Vijay said.

In the presence of political strategist-turned politician Prashant Kishore (referred to as PK), actor-politician Joseph Vijay lashed out at India’s ruling BJP and its rival party Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK while addressing his fledgling political party’s first anniversary celebration in Mamallapuram. “We are an emerging primary political force in Tamil Nadu politics, with a firm commitment to create history in the 2026 state assembly polls, just like it had happened in 1967 and 1977 here,” Vijay said. In his usual style, without naming the respective parties, Vijay took on the BJP and DMK, while referring to the ongoing row between them over the National Education Policy and the Hindi imposition debate. He stated that granting funds for education was the central government’s (BJP) duty, while fighting for the rights is the state government’s (DMK) duty. Vijay claimed that the recent hashtag wars between the DMK and BJP were “pre-planned” and that the two ruling parties were fighting in a “silly manner” over a serious issue. Also read: Over 20 civil service employees resigned from Trump’s DOGE in protest Vijay also emphasised the importance of booth-level agents who work at the grassroots level and reach out to the masses. He said that his budding party would strengthen its booth-level presence and showcase its strength in the political arena. TVK has roped in PK to take on DMK and BJP? Prashant Kishore, the political strategist-turned politician, was the ‘chief guest’ at the anniversary event, where he spoke highly of Vijay and his political party. Interestingly, PK has earlier worked as a political and election strategist with major Indian political parties such as the BJP, Congress, DMK, TMC, and YSRCP, among others. “Vijay’s party TVK is a movement of millions who want to see a new political order, this is a time for change, and your party represents change and hope. I am here because of shared values, ideals, ideologies, goals, and desires,” PK said of Vijay’s party, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Kishore also alleged that Tamil Nadu is the most politically corrupt state in India. "I have to become the most popular Bihari in #TamilNadu..so, i have to compete with MS Dhoni, who makes IPL team CSK win..I'll make #TVK under your leaders win, that's why I'm here" political strategist Prashant Kishore Is this a joke or genuine confidence?? #Vijay #TVKVijay pic.twitter.com/jKXB19HhbV — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 26, 2025 In what is being widely seen as boastfulness, PK also claimed that by making Vijay’s party win the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls, he could end up becoming more popular in the state than his fellow Bihari and former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni, who plays for the local Chennai Super Kings IPL team. “I will make TVK under your leader win, that is why I am here,” PK claimed. PK added that he would return to Tamil Nadu in 2026 to deliver a ‘thank you speech’ to the people of the state after the victory of the TVK party. Also read: ‘Trump Gaza number one’: US president shares his vision of post-war region, with Netanyahu chilling by pool

Actor Vijay’s TVK teams up with PK to attack DMK and BJP

Maha Kumbh 2025 culminates on Wednesday (Feb 26) with millions of pilgrims from around the world having taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.
The grand festival, which began on January 13, ended with millions of devotees participating in the final Amrit Snan on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri.&nbsp;
The 45-day festival has gained global attention for its grandeur, scale, and cultural significance. According to official data, over 650 million pilgrims have taken part in the largest religious gathering in the world.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-maha-kumbh-2025-culminates-here-is-how-the-world-reported-the-event-in-prayagraj-8759045">As Maha Kumbh 2025 culminates, here is how world reported 45-day event in Prayagraj</a>
As the festival marks its end, here are some viral moments from Maha Kumbh 2025:
<h2>Babas at Maha Kumbh</h2>
Some babas at the festival have gone viral, catching everyone&rsquo;s attention for standing out from the crowd. These include &lsquo;IIT Baba&rsquo;, Abhay Singh aka Masani Gorakh, who left science and turned to spirituality. Another such baba was 'Anaaj Wale Baba', who grabbed everyone's attention for growing crops like wheat, millet, gram, and peas on his head.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-iitian-baba-at-maha-kumbh-who-left-aerospace-engineering-in-pursuit-of-spirituality-8620548">Meet IITian Baba at Maha Kumbh who left aerospace engineering in pursuit of spirituality</a>
Another 57-year-old spiritual figure, Gangapuri Maharaj, also known as Chottu Baba, became the centre of attention for not bathing in 32 years. Atma Prem Giri Maharaj, a 7-foot-tall Russian dubbed &lsquo;Muscular Baba&rsquo; also went viral on social media.
<h2>Notable personalities</h2>
From great politicians of the world to celebrities and from scientists to sages; people from all walks were spotted at the mega event. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers, and chief ministers including UP CM Yogi Adityanath, and other notable figures, took a dip at the Triveni Sangam.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-at-maha-kumbh-indian-pm-takes-holy-dip-at-sangam-in-prayagraj-watch-8691911">Modi at Maha Kumbh: Indian PM takes holy dip at Sangam in Prayagraj | Watch</a>
Bollywood celebrities including Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal and many others were also present there.
<h2>International attention</h2>
International personalities, including late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs' wife, Laurene Powell Jobs, also visited Maha Kumbh on its first day. Although she did not take a holy dip due to her allergies she developed on the second day.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coldplays-chris-martin-and-actress-dakota-johnson-arrive-at-maha-kumbh-watch-8658804">Coldplay's Chris Martin and actress Dakota Johnson arrive at Maha Kumbh | Watch</a>
Coldplay's Chris Martin, his girlfriend and actor Dakota Johnson also took a holy dip.
<h2>&lsquo;Digital snan&rsquo;</h2>
A startup founder went viral on social media for offering &lsquo;digital photo snan&rsquo; services by performing the holy dip using printing photos of those who could not attend the festival physically. For this virtual experience, he charged a fee of Rs 1,100.
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A woman took the concept of digital snan to another level by dipping her phone in the water while video calling her husband.
<h2>Viral AI videos</h2>
AI videos with personalities like Elon Musk, Vladimir Putin, and other big names from the world taking the holy dip at the Sangam also went viral on the internet.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-putin-and-john-cena-at-maha-kumbh-ai-video-takes-over-internet-leaves-internet-amused-8630989">Musk, Putin and John Cena at Maha Kumbh? AI video takes over internet, leaves netizens amused</a>
One clip also featured Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni. Users on social media found the video hilarious, with most of them hoping to see the scenes unfolding in real life.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | As the grand festival ends with millions of devotees participating in the final Amrit Snan on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri, here are some viral moments from Maha Kumbh 2025.

Maha Kumbh 2025 culminates on Wednesday (Feb 26) with millions of pilgrims from around the world having taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. The grand festival, which began on January 13, ended with millions of devotees participating in the final Amrit Snan on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri. The 45-day festival has gained global attention for its grandeur, scale, and cultural significance. According to official data, over 650 million pilgrims have taken part in the largest religious gathering in the world. Also read | As Maha Kumbh 2025 culminates, here is how world reported 45-day event in Prayagraj As the festival marks its end, here are some viral moments from Maha Kumbh 2025: Babas at Maha Kumbh Some babas at the festival have gone viral, catching everyone’s attention for standing out from the crowd. These include ‘IIT Baba’, Abhay Singh aka Masani Gorakh, who left science and turned to spirituality. Another such baba was 'Anaaj Wale Baba', who grabbed everyone's attention for growing crops like wheat, millet, gram, and peas on his head. Also read | Meet IITian Baba at Maha Kumbh who left aerospace engineering in pursuit of spirituality Another 57-year-old spiritual figure, Gangapuri Maharaj, also known as Chottu Baba, became the centre of attention for not bathing in 32 years. Atma Prem Giri Maharaj, a 7-foot-tall Russian dubbed ‘Muscular Baba’ also went viral on social media. Notable personalities From great politicians of the world to celebrities and from scientists to sages; people from all walks were spotted at the mega event. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers, and chief ministers including UP CM Yogi Adityanath, and other notable figures, took a dip at the Triveni Sangam. Also read | Modi at Maha Kumbh: Indian PM takes holy dip at Sangam in Prayagraj | Watch Bollywood celebrities including Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal and many others were also present there. International attention International personalities, including late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs' wife, Laurene Powell Jobs, also visited Maha Kumbh on its first day. Although she did not take a holy dip due to her allergies she developed on the second day. Also read | Coldplay's Chris Martin and actress Dakota Johnson arrive at Maha Kumbh | Watch Coldplay's Chris Martin, his girlfriend and actor Dakota Johnson also took a holy dip. ‘Digital snan’ A startup founder went viral on social media for offering ‘digital photo snan’ services by performing the holy dip using printing photos of those who could not attend the festival physically. For this virtual experience, he charged a fee of Rs 1,100. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Akash Banerjee (@akashbanerjee.in) A woman took the concept of digital snan to another level by dipping her phone in the water while video calling her husband. Viral AI videos AI videos with personalities like Elon Musk, Vladimir Putin, and other big names from the world taking the holy dip at the Sangam also went viral on the internet. Also read | Musk, Putin and John Cena at Maha Kumbh? AI video takes over internet, leaves netizens amused One clip also featured Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni. Users on social media found the video hilarious, with most of them hoping to see the scenes unfolding in real life. (With inputs from agencies)

From unique babas to ‘digital snan’ and AI videos: Viral moments from Maha Kumbh 2025

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has triggered political speculation by nominating its Rajya Sabha MP, Sanjeev Arora, for the upcoming Ludhiana West assembly bypoll.&nbsp;
Reacting to his candidature, Arora expressed gratitude towards AAP&rsquo;s leadership. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, "Humbled and grateful to the leadership AAP for reposing faith in me to contest the Ludhiana West bye-elections. As someone deeply connected to my hometown, I look forward to serving my people with dedication and sincerity."
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shashi-tharoors-future-in-congress-uncertain-as-rift-with-leadership-deepens-8758568" aria-label="Shashi Tharoor&rsquo;s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens">Shashi Tharoor&rsquo;s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens</a>
This decision has fuelled rumours that AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, who lost his New Delhi assembly seat in the recent elections, could be looking at a route back into Parliament.
If Arora vacates his Rajya Sabha seat to contest the Punjab assembly by-poll, it could open a path for Kejriwal to secure a place in the Upper House. However, the party has denied any such possibility.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preferential-licensing-financial-irregularities-cag-report-spells-trouble-for-aap-in-delhi-excise-scam-8758737" aria-label="Preferential licensing, financial irregularities: CAG report spells trouble for AAP in Delhi Excise Scam">Preferential licensing, financial irregularities: CAG report spells trouble for AAP in Delhi Excise Scam</a>
<h2>AAP dismisses speculation on Kejriwal&rsquo;s Rajya Sabha bid</h2>
Amid growing political chatter, AAP has issued a clarification, denying any plans for Kejriwal to move to the Rajya Sabha.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
संजीव अरोड़ा जी अपने क्षेत्र में काफ़ी Active रहते हैं इसलिए वो चुनाव लड़ रहे हैं। जहां तक ​​अरविंद केजरीवाल जी का सवाल है, मीडिया सूत्र पहले कह रहे थे कि वे पंजाब के मुख्यमंत्री बनेंगे। अब कह रहे हैं कि वे राज्यसभा से चुनाव लड़ेंगे। ये दोनों सूत्र बिल्कुल गलत हैं। अरविंद&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/gUSP5335Et">pic.twitter.com/gUSP5335Et</a>
&mdash; AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/1894650205297152508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-mass-murder-youth-admits-to-killing-family-uses-hammer-to-shatter-skull-8758787" aria-label="Kerala mass murder: Youth admits to killing family, using hammer to &lsquo;shatter&rsquo; skulls">Kerala mass murder: Youth admits to killing family, using hammer to &lsquo;shatter&rsquo; skulls</a>
Party spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar stated, "Arvind Kejriwal ji is not going to the Rajya Sabha. Sanjeev Arora ji remains quite active in his field, which is why he is contesting the election."
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | If Arora vacates his Rajya Sabha seat to contest the Punjab assembly bypoll, it could open a path for Kejriwal to secure a place in the Upper House. However, the party has denied any such possibility.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has triggered political speculation by nominating its Rajya Sabha MP, Sanjeev Arora, for the upcoming Ludhiana West assembly bypoll. Reacting to his candidature, Arora expressed gratitude towards AAP’s leadership. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, "Humbled and grateful to the leadership AAP for reposing faith in me to contest the Ludhiana West bye-elections. As someone deeply connected to my hometown, I look forward to serving my people with dedication and sincerity." Also Read | Shashi Tharoor’s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens This decision has fuelled rumours that AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, who lost his New Delhi assembly seat in the recent elections, could be looking at a route back into Parliament. If Arora vacates his Rajya Sabha seat to contest the Punjab assembly by-poll, it could open a path for Kejriwal to secure a place in the Upper House. However, the party has denied any such possibility. Also Read | Preferential licensing, financial irregularities: CAG report spells trouble for AAP in Delhi Excise Scam AAP dismisses speculation on Kejriwal’s Rajya Sabha bid Amid growing political chatter, AAP has issued a clarification, denying any plans for Kejriwal to move to the Rajya Sabha. संजीव अरोड़ा जी अपने क्षेत्र में काफ़ी Active रहते हैं इसलिए वो चुनाव लड़ रहे हैं। जहां तक अरविंद केजरीवाल जी का सवाल है, मीडिया सूत्र पहले कह रहे थे कि वे पंजाब के मुख्यमंत्री बनेंगे। अब कह रहे हैं कि वे राज्यसभा से चुनाव लड़ेंगे। ये दोनों सूत्र बिल्कुल गलत हैं। अरविंद… pic.twitter.com/gUSP5335Et — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) February 26, 2025 Also Read | Kerala mass murder: Youth admits to killing family, using hammer to ‘shatter’ skulls Party spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar stated, "Arvind Kejriwal ji is not going to the Rajya Sabha. Sanjeev Arora ji remains quite active in his field, which is why he is contesting the election." (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal to enter Rajya Sabha? AAP’s move sparks speculation

Maha Kumbh 2025 culminates on February 26, and millions of pilgrims from around the world have taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.
The grand festival, which began on January 13, ends with millions of devotees participating in the final Amrit Snan on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri.
The 45-day festival gained global attention for its grandeur, scale, and spritual-cultural significance. According to official data, over 650 million devotees have taken part in the largest religious gathering in the world.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/triveni-sangam-sees-millions-of-devotees-gather-at-prayagraj-for-final-amrit-snan-of-maha-kumbh-2025-on-mahashivratri-8757216">Mahashivratri at Maha Kumbh Mela: Millions of devotees gather in Prayagraj for final 'amrit snan'</a>
<h2>How world media reported Maha Kumbh 2025</h2>
The Wall Street Journal reported that the festival was attended by more pilgrims than the entire population of the United States. &ldquo;India&rsquo;s Maha Kumbh pilgrimage is drawing to a close after hosting more people than the population of the United States over six weeks,&rdquo; the report said.
The New York Times called the festival a &lsquo;mesmerizing spectacle&rsquo;. &ldquo;There are ash-smeared monks, naked ascetics, priests with vermilion paste on their foreheads, ordinary pilgrims, tourists with selfie sticks, awe-struck foreigners, entertainers, small vendors, and big advertisers,&rdquo; it reported.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It is also a feat of urban planning, an overnight megalopolis built on land borrowed from the receding Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh, with tents, toilets, roads, streetlights, and even automated ticket vending machines.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-pics-maha-kumbh-mela-2025-worlds-largest-religious-gathering-begins-8618587">In Pics | Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: World&rsquo;s largest religious gathering begins</a>
A report by The Guardian described Maha Kumbh as a &lsquo;festival of festivals&rsquo; in the Hindu religious calendar. The report further detailed the essence of the festival and the significance of the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam.
CNN described the festival, detailing the rituals, significance, and large crowds of ash-smeared Naga Sadhus, or Hindu holy men. CNN also reported the grand scale of the event, noting, &ldquo;Around 160,000 tents, 150,000 toilets and a 776-mile (1,249-kilometre) drinking water pipeline have been installed at a temporary tent city covering 4,000 hectares, roughly the size of 7,500 football fields.&rdquo;
News agency AFP reported that despite two deadly stampedes that killed dozens, the festival in the northern city of Prayagraj has been hailed as a triumph by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist party. The event&rsquo;s carefully cultivated image has been bolstered as a steward of Hindu resurgence and prosperity.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/blogs/dip-at-sangam-my-journey-to-maha-kumbh-2025-8728556">Dip at Sangam: My journey to Maha Kumbh 2025</a>
While news agency Reuters praised the &lsquo;tech-savvy Maha Kumbh&rsquo; where 2,760 artificial intelligence-powered CCTV cameras have been installed and technology is used to strengthen security in the premises. The massive festival has been branded as the &lsquo;Digital Maha Kumbh&rsquo; by the Indian government.
<h2>Maha Kumbh Mela 2025</h2>
Pilgrims from across India and abroad are witnessing the largest spiritual gathering in the world, immersing themselves in the sacred tradition at the Triveni Sangam, where the holy Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers meet.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-2025-11-women-who-gave-birth-at-hospital-for-pilgrims-8707236">Maha Kumbh 2025: 11 women gave birth at hospital for pilgrims, one baby boy named &lsquo;Kumbh&rsquo;</a>
The Maha Kumbh, or &lsquo;Purna&rsquo; (complete) Kumbh, is held every 12 years in one of the four locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain, where the nectar of immortality from mythological Samudra Manthan is believed to have fallen. However, the Maha Kumbh this time coincided with a unique planetary alignment that happens only once in 144 years, making it even more special.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | The grand festival, which began on January 13, ends with millions of devotees participating in the final Amrit Snan on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri.

Maha Kumbh 2025 culminates on February 26, and millions of pilgrims from around the world have taken a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. The grand festival, which began on January 13, ends with millions of devotees participating in the final Amrit Snan on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri. The 45-day festival gained global attention for its grandeur, scale, and spritual-cultural significance. According to official data, over 650 million devotees have taken part in the largest religious gathering in the world. Also read | Mahashivratri at Maha Kumbh Mela: Millions of devotees gather in Prayagraj for final 'amrit snan' How world media reported Maha Kumbh 2025 The Wall Street Journal reported that the festival was attended by more pilgrims than the entire population of the United States. “India’s Maha Kumbh pilgrimage is drawing to a close after hosting more people than the population of the United States over six weeks,” the report said. The New York Times called the festival a ‘mesmerizing spectacle’. “There are ash-smeared monks, naked ascetics, priests with vermilion paste on their foreheads, ordinary pilgrims, tourists with selfie sticks, awe-struck foreigners, entertainers, small vendors, and big advertisers,” it reported. “It is also a feat of urban planning, an overnight megalopolis built on land borrowed from the receding Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh, with tents, toilets, roads, streetlights, and even automated ticket vending machines.” Also read | In Pics | Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: World’s largest religious gathering begins A report by The Guardian described Maha Kumbh as a ‘festival of festivals’ in the Hindu religious calendar. The report further detailed the essence of the festival and the significance of the holy dip at the Triveni Sangam. CNN described the festival, detailing the rituals, significance, and large crowds of ash-smeared Naga Sadhus, or Hindu holy men. CNN also reported the grand scale of the event, noting, “Around 160,000 tents, 150,000 toilets and a 776-mile (1,249-kilometre) drinking water pipeline have been installed at a temporary tent city covering 4,000 hectares, roughly the size of 7,500 football fields.” News agency AFP reported that despite two deadly stampedes that killed dozens, the festival in the northern city of Prayagraj has been hailed as a triumph by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist party. The event’s carefully cultivated image has been bolstered as a steward of Hindu resurgence and prosperity. Also read | Dip at Sangam: My journey to Maha Kumbh 2025 While news agency Reuters praised the ‘tech-savvy Maha Kumbh’ where 2,760 artificial intelligence-powered CCTV cameras have been installed and technology is used to strengthen security in the premises. The massive festival has been branded as the ‘Digital Maha Kumbh’ by the Indian government. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Pilgrims from across India and abroad are witnessing the largest spiritual gathering in the world, immersing themselves in the sacred tradition at the Triveni Sangam, where the holy Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers meet. Also read | Maha Kumbh 2025: 11 women gave birth at hospital for pilgrims, one baby boy named ‘Kumbh’ The Maha Kumbh, or ‘Purna’ (complete) Kumbh, is held every 12 years in one of the four locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain, where the nectar of immortality from mythological Samudra Manthan is believed to have fallen. However, the Maha Kumbh this time coincided with a unique planetary alignment that happens only once in 144 years, making it even more special. (With inputs from agencies)

As Maha Kumbh 2025 culminates, here is how global media reported the 45-day event

Terrorists opened fire at an army vehicle in the Sunderbani Sector area in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri, officials said. There have been no reports of any casualties in the incident. Further details are awaited into the matter.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preferential-licensing-financial-irregularities-cag-report-spells-trouble-for-aap-in-delhi-excise-scam-8758737" aria-label="Preferential licensing, financial irregularities: CAG report spells trouble for AAP in Delhi Excise Scam">Preferential licensing, financial irregularities: CAG report spells trouble for AAP in Delhi Excise Scam</a>
Last week, in a significant success against anti-national elements, security forces busted a militant hideout in the Simbli Shajroo area of Mahore in Reasi district and recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a well-coordinated search operation was launched, leading to the recovery of four magazines, 268 rounds of AK-47 rifle ammunition, four UBGL (Under Barrel Grenade Launchers), and four packets of detonators.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shashi-tharoors-future-in-congress-uncertain-as-rift-with-leadership-deepens-8758568" aria-label="Shashi Tharoor&rsquo;s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens">Shashi Tharoor&rsquo;s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens</a>
The successful operation is a major setback to militant activities in the region and highlights the unwavering commitment of security forces to ensuring peace and security.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India News: Last week, in a significant success against anti-national elements, security forces busted a militant hideout in the Simbli Shajroo area of Mahore in Reasi district and recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition.

Terrorists opened fire at an army vehicle in the Sunderbani Sector area in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri, officials said. There have been no reports of any casualties in the incident. Further details are awaited into the matter. Also Read | Preferential licensing, financial irregularities: CAG report spells trouble for AAP in Delhi Excise Scam Last week, in a significant success against anti-national elements, security forces busted a militant hideout in the Simbli Shajroo area of Mahore in Reasi district and recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a well-coordinated search operation was launched, leading to the recovery of four magazines, 268 rounds of AK-47 rifle ammunition, four UBGL (Under Barrel Grenade Launchers), and four packets of detonators. Also Read | Shashi Tharoor’s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens The successful operation is a major setback to militant activities in the region and highlights the unwavering commitment of security forces to ensuring peace and security. Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Terrorists open fire on army vehicle in J&K's Rajouri, no casualties reported

A shocking case of mass murder has emerged from Venjaramoodu in Kerala&rsquo;s Thiruvananthapuram district, where a 23-year-old man allegedly killed five people across three locations before surrendering himself to the police. The accused, identified as Afan, reportedly confessed to the killings on Monday, revealing the grim details of his crime.&nbsp;
The victims include his teenage brother, grandmother, paternal uncle, aunt, and a young woman believed to be his girlfriend. He also admitted to attacking his mother, who survived the assault but remains in critical condition. &nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/indian-origin-tushar-mehta-joins-jeff-bezoss-blue-origin-on-historic-10th-space-tourism-mission-8757725" aria-label="Indian-origin Tushar Mehta joins Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin crew on historic 10th space tourism mission">Indian-origin Tushar Mehta joins Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin crew on historic 10th space tourism mission</a>
<h2>Hammer used as murder weapon</h2>
According to initial investigations, Afan used a hammer to kill his victims, striking them repeatedly. Among the victims, his uncle, Latheef, suffered the most violent assault. A witness told PTI that when Latheef&rsquo;s body was lifted, fingers inadvertently slipped into a gaping hole in his skull, illustrating the sheer brutality of the attack. His wife, Sajitha, was killed in the kitchen while making tea for Afan.&nbsp;
<h2>Teen brother lured with food, then killed</h2>
Afan&rsquo;s 13-year-old brother, Afsan, was reportedly very close to him. However, he lured the child home under the pretext of offering him Kuzhimanthi, an Arabian rice dish, before striking him multiple times on the head. Shockingly, Rs 500 notes were scattered around Afsan&rsquo;s body after the murder.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shashi-tharoors-future-in-congress-uncertain-as-rift-with-leadership-deepens-8758568" aria-label="Shashi Tharoor&rsquo;s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens">Shashi Tharoor&rsquo;s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens</a>
The killing spree allegedly began with his grandmother, 88-year-old Salma Beevi, before he moved on to his uncle&rsquo;s family. His final victim was a young woman, believed to be his girlfriend, whom he attacked so viciously that her face was unrecognisable.
<h2>Drug abuse angle under investigation</h2>
Investigators suspect Afan was a drug abuser but have yet to confirm whether he was under the influence at the time of the murders. Authorities are examining possible motives and psychological factors behind the horrific incident.
<h2>Plan to trigger explosion, yet no signs of distress</h2>
Before heading to the police station, Afan left an LPG valve open, seemingly planning an explosion if anyone entered the house at night. Despite the extreme violence, locals reported that he appeared calm and showed no signs of distress while moving between crime scenes.&nbsp;
When he reached the police station, Afan told officers he had assaulted six people, adding that they would all be dead by now.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

India News | The victims include his teenage brother, grandmother, paternal uncle, aunt, and a young woman, believed to be his girlfriend. He also admitted to attacking his mother, who survived the assault but remains in critical condition.

A shocking case of mass murder has emerged from Venjaramoodu in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district, where a 23-year-old man allegedly killed five people across three locations before surrendering himself to the police. The accused, identified as Afan, reportedly confessed to the killings on Monday, revealing the grim details of his crime. The victims include his teenage brother, grandmother, paternal uncle, aunt, and a young woman believed to be his girlfriend. He also admitted to attacking his mother, who survived the assault but remains in critical condition. Also Read | Indian-origin Tushar Mehta joins Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin crew on historic 10th space tourism mission Hammer used as murder weapon According to initial investigations, Afan used a hammer to kill his victims, striking them repeatedly. Among the victims, his uncle, Latheef, suffered the most violent assault. A witness told PTI that when Latheef’s body was lifted, fingers inadvertently slipped into a gaping hole in his skull, illustrating the sheer brutality of the attack. His wife, Sajitha, was killed in the kitchen while making tea for Afan. Teen brother lured with food, then killed Afan’s 13-year-old brother, Afsan, was reportedly very close to him. However, he lured the child home under the pretext of offering him Kuzhimanthi, an Arabian rice dish, before striking him multiple times on the head. Shockingly, Rs 500 notes were scattered around Afsan’s body after the murder. Also Read | Shashi Tharoor’s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens The killing spree allegedly began with his grandmother, 88-year-old Salma Beevi, before he moved on to his uncle’s family. His final victim was a young woman, believed to be his girlfriend, whom he attacked so viciously that her face was unrecognisable. Drug abuse angle under investigation Investigators suspect Afan was a drug abuser but have yet to confirm whether he was under the influence at the time of the murders. Authorities are examining possible motives and psychological factors behind the horrific incident. Plan to trigger explosion, yet no signs of distress Before heading to the police station, Afan left an LPG valve open, seemingly planning an explosion if anyone entered the house at night. Despite the extreme violence, locals reported that he appeared calm and showed no signs of distress while moving between crime scenes. When he reached the police station, Afan told officers he had assaulted six people, adding that they would all be dead by now. (With inputs from agencies)

Kerala mass murder: Youth admits to killing family, using hammer to ‘shatter’ skulls

The Comptroller and Auditor General's (CAG) report on Delhi Liquor Policy, presented to the Delhi Assembly, reveals that a group of ministers led by then Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia altered the expert panel's recommendations for the policy.
This alteration led to significant changes, including granting wholesale licenses to private entities instead of a state-owned entity, and modifying the excise duty structure. The report highlights several deficiencies in the New Excise Policy, including ignoring expert committee suggestions, flawed license design and award, and poor policy implementation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shashi-tharoors-future-in-congress-uncertain-as-rift-with-leadership-deepens-8758568">Shashi Tharoor&rsquo;s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">CAG report</h2>
The Comptroller and Auditor General's (CAG) report &ndash; &lsquo;Performance Audit on Regulation and Supply of Liquor in Delhi&rsquo; &ndash; is one of the 14 reports that the Chief Minister Rekha Gupta-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government plans to table in the coming days in assembly.
A recent CAG report has exposed significant lapses in the implementation of Delhi's now-scrapped excise policy, resulting in a staggering loss of approximately Rs 2,002 crore to the exchequer.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oscar-equivalent-award-for-worst-airline-bjps-jaiveer-shergill-slams-air-india-8757983">&lsquo;Oscar-equivalent award for worst airline&rsquo;: BJP&rsquo;s Jaiveer Shergill slams Air India</a>
The GoM, the CAG alleges, decided against the panel's recommendation and allowed private players to handle wholesale liquor operations, among other violations.
<h2 dir="ltr">&lsquo;Take control of wholesale liquor trade&rsquo;</h2>
According to the report, an expert committee advised the government to take control of the wholesale liquor trade through a state-owned beverage or wholesale corporation. This recommendation was made to prevent potential conflicts of interest and illegal activities, such as those that occurred in the past when private entities controlled both wholesale and retail operations, and wholesalers allegedly facilitated the supply of illicit liquor using duplicate barcodes.
Even the GoM, in its report, accepted that many wholesalers were able to acquire retail licences through proxy ownership and make it possible to indulge in the sale of non-duty paid liquor, it said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cag-report-aaps-atishi-links-corruption-to-old-policies-bjp-fires-back-with-black-deeds-remark-8756064">CAG Report: AAP&rsquo;s Atishi links corruption to old policies, BJP fires back with &lsquo;black deeds&rsquo; remark</a>
&ldquo;Still the GoM recommended issue of L-1 licenses to private players only. The reason provided in the GoM Report for not forming such government-owned wholesale corporation was that a deep study and implementation of the same would require time and till such time L-1 license should be granted to private players,&rdquo; the report read.
&ldquo;It was noted from the finally-approved Excise Policy for the year 2022-23 that the wholesale operation was proposed to be managed by private players, which belied the claims made by (Delhi) Government that private wholesale operations were only an interim measure,&rdquo; the CAG report reads on page 83.
The expert committee recommended maintaining the existing system of collecting excise duty on a per-bottle basis, while proposing changes to the pricing mechanism.
"However, the GoM favoured advance collection of excise duty, in the form of License fee, which was practically delinked to the actual sale of liquor,&rdquo; the report reads.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Discover the CAG report's findings on Delhi's Liquor Policy, highlighting changes made by a ministerial group led by former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia contrary to expert advice.

The Comptroller and Auditor General's (CAG) report on Delhi Liquor Policy, presented to the Delhi Assembly, reveals that a group of ministers led by then Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia altered the expert panel's recommendations for the policy. This alteration led to significant changes, including granting wholesale licenses to private entities instead of a state-owned entity, and modifying the excise duty structure. The report highlights several deficiencies in the New Excise Policy, including ignoring expert committee suggestions, flawed license design and award, and poor policy implementation. Also read | Shashi Tharoor’s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens CAG report The Comptroller and Auditor General's (CAG) report – ‘Performance Audit on Regulation and Supply of Liquor in Delhi’ – is one of the 14 reports that the Chief Minister Rekha Gupta-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government plans to table in the coming days in assembly. A recent CAG report has exposed significant lapses in the implementation of Delhi's now-scrapped excise policy, resulting in a staggering loss of approximately Rs 2,002 crore to the exchequer. Also read | ‘Oscar-equivalent award for worst airline’: BJP’s Jaiveer Shergill slams Air India The GoM, the CAG alleges, decided against the panel's recommendation and allowed private players to handle wholesale liquor operations, among other violations. ‘Take control of wholesale liquor trade’ According to the report, an expert committee advised the government to take control of the wholesale liquor trade through a state-owned beverage or wholesale corporation. This recommendation was made to prevent potential conflicts of interest and illegal activities, such as those that occurred in the past when private entities controlled both wholesale and retail operations, and wholesalers allegedly facilitated the supply of illicit liquor using duplicate barcodes. Even the GoM, in its report, accepted that many wholesalers were able to acquire retail licences through proxy ownership and make it possible to indulge in the sale of non-duty paid liquor, it said. Also read | CAG Report: AAP’s Atishi links corruption to old policies, BJP fires back with ‘black deeds’ remark “Still the GoM recommended issue of L-1 licenses to private players only. The reason provided in the GoM Report for not forming such government-owned wholesale corporation was that a deep study and implementation of the same would require time and till such time L-1 license should be granted to private players,” the report read. “It was noted from the finally-approved Excise Policy for the year 2022-23 that the wholesale operation was proposed to be managed by private players, which belied the claims made by (Delhi) Government that private wholesale operations were only an interim measure,” the CAG report reads on page 83. The expert committee recommended maintaining the existing system of collecting excise duty on a per-bottle basis, while proposing changes to the pricing mechanism. "However, the GoM favoured advance collection of excise duty, in the form of License fee, which was practically delinked to the actual sale of liquor,” the report reads. (With inputs from agencies)

Preferential licensing, financial irregularities: CAG report spells trouble for AAP in Delhi Excise Scam

The rift between Shashi Tharoor and the Congress leadership is widening, fuelling speculation about his future in the party. Tharoor, a four-time MP from Thiruvananthapuram, has expressed interest in becoming Kerala's chief minister, according to sources.&nbsp;
This development comes amid reports of Tharoor facing backlash from Congress leaders for praising PM Modi and the Kerala LDF government's industrial policy.
According to the Hindustan Times, this situation puts the Congress high command in a difficult position, as they navigate the potential consequences of losing a prominent figure like Tharoor ahead of crucial state elections.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oscar-equivalent-award-for-worst-airline-bjps-jaiveer-shergill-slams-air-india-8757983">&lsquo;Oscar-equivalent award for worst airline&rsquo;: BJP&rsquo;s Jaiveer Shergill slams Air India</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Tharoor with BJP's Piyush Goyal</h2>
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's latest post on X, where he can be seen posing for a selfie with Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and British Secretary of State for Trade Jonathan Reynold, further sparked the ongoing speculation about his rift with the grand old party.
"Good to exchange words with Jonathan Reynolds, Britain's Secretary of State for Business and Trade, in the company of his Indian counterpart, Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal. The long-stalled FTA negotiations have been revived, which is most welcome,&rdquo; Tharoor wrote on X.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-indian-firms-sanctioned-by-trumps-administration-for-knowingly-engaging-in-irans-oil-trade-8757883">Four Indian firms among those sanctioned by Trump administration for 'knowingly engaging' in Iran's oil trade</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Tharoor praised economic policies of Kerala govt,&nbsp; PM Modi's meeting with Trump</h2>
Tharoor sparked controversy within his party after praising both the Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led government in Kerala and PM Narendra Modi&rsquo;s meeting with US President Donald Trump.
In a newspaper article published on February 14, Tharoor praised the economic policies of the Kerala government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. While the Left party welcomed his comments, Congress leaders criticised Tharoor&rsquo;s stance.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/indian-origin-tushar-mehta-joins-jeff-bezoss-blue-origin-on-historic-10th-space-tourism-mission-8757725">Indian-origin Tushar Mehta joins Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin crew on historic 10th space tourism mission</a>
Later, the Congress MP voiced a rare praise for PM Modi after US President Trump called the Indian Prime Minister a "great leader". "He is a much tougher negotiator than me, and he is a much better negotiator than me," the US President said.
Referring to Trump's remarks, Tharoor said: "To hear a man like Donald Trump, whose defence secretary called him the greatest negotiator in the world, announcing that the Indian prime minister was a better negotiator than he was, that sounds like something Mr Modi can put in the bank, that sounds very good."
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Growing rift between Shashi Tharoor and Congress leadership sparks speculation about his political future, with Tharoor eyeing Kerala's chief ministerial position.

The rift between Shashi Tharoor and the Congress leadership is widening, fuelling speculation about his future in the party. Tharoor, a four-time MP from Thiruvananthapuram, has expressed interest in becoming Kerala's chief minister, according to sources. This development comes amid reports of Tharoor facing backlash from Congress leaders for praising PM Modi and the Kerala LDF government's industrial policy. According to the Hindustan Times, this situation puts the Congress high command in a difficult position, as they navigate the potential consequences of losing a prominent figure like Tharoor ahead of crucial state elections. Also read | ‘Oscar-equivalent award for worst airline’: BJP’s Jaiveer Shergill slams Air India Tharoor with BJP's Piyush Goyal Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's latest post on X, where he can be seen posing for a selfie with Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and British Secretary of State for Trade Jonathan Reynold, further sparked the ongoing speculation about his rift with the grand old party. "Good to exchange words with Jonathan Reynolds, Britain's Secretary of State for Business and Trade, in the company of his Indian counterpart, Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal. The long-stalled FTA negotiations have been revived, which is most welcome,” Tharoor wrote on X. Also read | Four Indian firms among those sanctioned by Trump administration for 'knowingly engaging' in Iran's oil trade Tharoor praised economic policies of Kerala govt, PM Modi's meeting with Trump Tharoor sparked controversy within his party after praising both the Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led government in Kerala and PM Narendra Modi’s meeting with US President Donald Trump. In a newspaper article published on February 14, Tharoor praised the economic policies of the Kerala government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. While the Left party welcomed his comments, Congress leaders criticised Tharoor’s stance. Also read | Indian-origin Tushar Mehta joins Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin crew on historic 10th space tourism mission Later, the Congress MP voiced a rare praise for PM Modi after US President Trump called the Indian Prime Minister a "great leader". "He is a much tougher negotiator than me, and he is a much better negotiator than me," the US President said. Referring to Trump's remarks, Tharoor said: "To hear a man like Donald Trump, whose defence secretary called him the greatest negotiator in the world, announcing that the Indian prime minister was a better negotiator than he was, that sounds like something Mr Modi can put in the bank, that sounds very good." (With inputs from agencies)

Shashi Tharoor’s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens

<div class="x_elementToProof" data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">New Delhi: Ahead of the visit of President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and her cabinet to Delhi, EU officials said they see India as a "partner in peace" when it comes to the war in Ukraine and this will be a subject discussed during the meeting with PM Narendra Modi on Friday. The officials said, "President Ursula will give an update on her visit to Kyiv. Ukraine's security is important to our security, it is important to Indian security".</div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof">The comments are crucial, even as the Trump administration is looking at an end to the war in Ukraine, with talks with Russia in Riyadh. The war, in its third year, has shaken up European security and for the Global South, led to increase in prices of food, fuel and other commodities.</div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ursula-von-der-leyen-re-elected-european-commission-president-despite-opposition-from-giorgia-melonis-party-742097">Also read: Ursula von der Leyen re-elected as European Commission president despite opposition from Meloni's party</a></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The EU official pointed out that they "want to have cooperation with India on Russian sanctions, that our sanctions are effective."</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"> During the visit of EU sanctions envoy David O Sullivan to India last year, Brussels presented evidence to the Indian side over Indian entities breaching G7 sanctions. New Delhi has sought more information on the evidence provided.&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The visit of Ursula Von der Leyen and her cabinet is due to begin from Thursday (Feb 27) and will have its main day of engagement on Friday.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"> The visit is seen significant since, it's for the first time that such a visit is happening by President Ursula and her cabinet (commissioners) together to any country in years.</div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof">This is also the first such visit since the start of the mandate of the current European Commission in December 2024 after the European parliamentary elections held in June 2024.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">India-Middle East-Europe corridor, the mega connectivity project that links India with Europe via West Asia, will be part of the talks in New Delhi this week.&nbsp;</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The EU official, terming it as an "important initiative", said the corridor is about "investing in infrastructure, building connections with India" and that Brussels is "committed to developing this, which is a big issue."</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"> The corridor was launched at the India 2023 G20 summit, but has faced a slowdown in its western limb due to conflict between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp; </div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-rules-european-commission-chief-ursula-violated-transparency-norms-in-vaccine-contracts-741723">Also read: Court rules European Commission chief Ursula violated transparency norms in vaccine contracts</a></div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof">Conversation on the much-delayed India and EU Free trade agreement will also be on the table, as EU officials pointed out, "the case for FTA has never been stronger. We see stars and planet alignment on Friday (when PM Modi, Prez Ursula meet). We might see progress".</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">Negotiations between India and the European Union for an FTA have been picking up steam, with both sides aiming for a deal that is "balanced and mutually beneficial".</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The talks officially restarted in June 2022 after an eight-year pause, with the 10th round scheduled for next month.</div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof">The EU official expressed concern over high "Indian tariffs", and hoped that India can lower tariffs on cars and wine.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof">The EU is India&rsquo;s largest trading partner, with trade hitting $180 billion in 2023&ndash;24&mdash;India exporting $75.18 billion in goods and $31.13 billion in services, while the EU sent back $63.44 billion in goods and $31.35 billion in services. The EU is also a major investor, pouring $117.34 billion into India cumulatively.</div>
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<div class="x_elementToProof">Focus remains on China as well, with official pointed, "we see alignment between India, EU" on that. This will be the third visit of President Ursula von der Leyen to India, after a bilateral official visit in April 2022, and a September 2023 visit for the India G20 summit.</div>
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India News | World News The visit is seen significant since, it's for the first time that such a visit is happening by President Ursula and her cabinet (commissioners) together to any country in years.

New Delhi: Ahead of the visit of President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and her cabinet to Delhi, EU officials said they see India as a "partner in peace" when it comes to the war in Ukraine and this will be a subject discussed during the meeting with PM Narendra Modi on Friday. The officials said, "President Ursula will give an update on her visit to Kyiv. Ukraine's security is important to our security, it is important to Indian security". The comments are crucial, even as the Trump administration is looking at an end to the war in Ukraine, with talks with Russia in Riyadh. The war, in its third year, has shaken up European security and for the Global South, led to increase in prices of food, fuel and other commodities. Also read: Ursula von der Leyen re-elected as European Commission president despite opposition from Meloni's party The EU official pointed out that they "want to have cooperation with India on Russian sanctions, that our sanctions are effective." During the visit of EU sanctions envoy David O Sullivan to India last year, Brussels presented evidence to the Indian side over Indian entities breaching G7 sanctions. New Delhi has sought more information on the evidence provided. The visit of Ursula Von der Leyen and her cabinet is due to begin from Thursday (Feb 27) and will have its main day of engagement on Friday. The visit is seen significant since, it's for the first time that such a visit is happening by President Ursula and her cabinet (commissioners) together to any country in years. This is also the first such visit since the start of the mandate of the current European Commission in December 2024 after the European parliamentary elections held in June 2024. India-Middle East-Europe corridor, the mega connectivity project that links India with Europe via West Asia, will be part of the talks in New Delhi this week. The EU official, terming it as an "important initiative", said the corridor is about "investing in infrastructure, building connections with India" and that Brussels is "committed to developing this, which is a big issue." The corridor was launched at the India 2023 G20 summit, but has faced a slowdown in its western limb due to conflict between Israel and Hamas. Also read: Court rules European Commission chief Ursula violated transparency norms in vaccine contracts Conversation on the much-delayed India and EU Free trade agreement will also be on the table, as EU officials pointed out, "the case for FTA has never been stronger. We see stars and planet alignment on Friday (when PM Modi, Prez Ursula meet). We might see progress". Negotiations between India and the European Union for an FTA have been picking up steam, with both sides aiming for a deal that is "balanced and mutually beneficial". The talks officially restarted in June 2022 after an eight-year pause, with the 10th round scheduled for next month. The EU official expressed concern over high "Indian tariffs", and hoped that India can lower tariffs on cars and wine. The EU is India’s largest trading partner, with trade hitting $180 billion in 2023–24—India exporting $75.18 billion in goods and $31.13 billion in services, while the EU sent back $63.44 billion in goods and $31.35 billion in services. The EU is also a major investor, pouring $117.34 billion into India cumulatively. Focus remains on China as well, with official pointed, "we see alignment between India, EU" on that. This will be the third visit of President Ursula von der Leyen to India, after a bilateral official visit in April 2022, and a September 2023 visit for the India G20 summit.

Ahead of Ursula von der Leyen's visit, EU says India partner in peace on Ukraine

After Union agriculture minister and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, BJP leader Jaiveer Shergill on Tuesday (Feb 25) slammed national carrier Air India, saying it would win 'Oscar-equivalent' award in the "worst airlines" category.
Expressing his deep dissatisfaction on social media platform 'X', Shergill criticised the airline&rsquo;s services.
"If there were an Oscar-equivalent award for the worst airline, Air India would win in every category,&rdquo; Shergill wrote on X.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-indian-firms-sanctioned-by-trumps-administration-for-knowingly-engaging-in-irans-oil-trade-8757883">Four Indian firms sanctioned by Trump for 'knowingly engaging' in Iran's oil trade</a>
Shergill alleged that Air India suffers from poor service standards. He cited broken seats, unprofessional staff, inadequate ground support and a disregard for customer service.
"Broken Seats, Worst Staff, Pathetic &ldquo;on ground&rdquo; Support Staff, give two hoots attitude about customer service!," he further remarked.
<h2 dir="ltr">Air India apologises</h2>
Air India responded to Shergill&rsquo;s criticism and apologised for the inconvenience caused.&nbsp;
In a reply to Shergill&rsquo;s post, the airline said, &ldquo;Dear Mr. Shergill, we apologise for the inconvenience caused. Kindly share the travel details with us via DM. We'll get in touch with you.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-announces-halt-on-asian-highway-project-due-to-myanmars-internal-conflicts-8757464">Jaishankar announces halt on Asian Highway project due to Myanmar's internal conflicts</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Allocated broken seat: Shivraj Singh Chouhan</h2>
Recently, Shivraj Singh Chouhan also faced issues with Air India when he was allotted a broken seat on a Bhopal-Delhi flight on February 22.
Taking to social media platform X, Chouhan shared his ordeal and said he was travelling on Air India flight AI436 and was assigned seat 8C. Upon sitting, he realised the &ldquo;seat was broken and sunken in, making it extremely uncomfortable&rdquo;.
The Civil Aviation Ministry also stepped in, with minister Ram Mohan Naidu responding to the incident. 
The ministry said that Naidu has spoken to Chouhan in this regard.
"We spoke to Air India immediately on this issue and instructed them to take necessary action. From our side, DGCA will also be looking into details of the matter promptly. And I have personally spoken to Shivraj ji also," Naidu said in a statement issued by the aviation ministry.
(With inputs from agencies)

BJP leader Jaiveer Shergill criticises Air India, likening its performance to a sweep at the 'worst airlines' Oscars, following similar remarks by Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

After Union agriculture minister and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, BJP leader Jaiveer Shergill on Tuesday (Feb 25) slammed national carrier Air India, saying it would win 'Oscar-equivalent' award in the "worst airlines" category. Expressing his deep dissatisfaction on social media platform 'X', Shergill criticised the airline’s services. "If there were an Oscar-equivalent award for the worst airline, Air India would win in every category,” Shergill wrote on X. Also read | Four Indian firms sanctioned by Trump for 'knowingly engaging' in Iran's oil trade Shergill alleged that Air India suffers from poor service standards. He cited broken seats, unprofessional staff, inadequate ground support and a disregard for customer service. "Broken Seats, Worst Staff, Pathetic “on ground” Support Staff, give two hoots attitude about customer service!," he further remarked. Air India apologises Air India responded to Shergill’s criticism and apologised for the inconvenience caused. In a reply to Shergill’s post, the airline said, “Dear Mr. Shergill, we apologise for the inconvenience caused. Kindly share the travel details with us via DM. We'll get in touch with you.” Also read | Jaishankar announces halt on Asian Highway project due to Myanmar's internal conflicts Allocated broken seat: Shivraj Singh Chouhan Recently, Shivraj Singh Chouhan also faced issues with Air India when he was allotted a broken seat on a Bhopal-Delhi flight on February 22. Taking to social media platform X, Chouhan shared his ordeal and said he was travelling on Air India flight AI436 and was assigned seat 8C. Upon sitting, he realised the “seat was broken and sunken in, making it extremely uncomfortable”. The Civil Aviation Ministry also stepped in, with minister Ram Mohan Naidu responding to the incident. The ministry said that Naidu has spoken to Chouhan in this regard. "We spoke to Air India immediately on this issue and instructed them to take necessary action. From our side, DGCA will also be looking into details of the matter promptly. And I have personally spoken to Shivraj ji also," Naidu said in a statement issued by the aviation ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Oscar-equivalent award for worst airline’: BJP’s Jaiveer Shergill slams Air India

Four India-based firms are among the 22 entities and 13 vessels sanctioned on Monday (Feb 24) by the United States for their alleged involvement in Iran's petroleum and petrochemical industry.
The sanctions follow US President Donald Trump's decision to reinstate his "maximum pressure" policy of sanctions against Tehran.
"Iran continues to rely on a shadowy network of vessels, shippers, and brokers to facilitate its oil sales and fund its destabilising activities," said US Treasury Scott Bessent announcing the designations.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-trump-humiliates-macron-subtly-at-white-house-snubs-awkward-handshakes-and-more-8753876">Watch | Trump 'humiliates' Macron: Snubs, tense handshakes and more from White House meet</a>
"The United States will use all our available tools to target all aspects of Iran's oil supply chain, and anyone who deals in Iranian oil exposes themselves to significant sanctions risk," he added.&nbsp;
<h2>Which Indian firms have been sanctioned?</h2>
The sanctions seek to disrupt "efforts by Iran to amass oil revenues to fund terrorists' activities," said the US.
Indian firms named in the sanctions include:
- BSM Marine Limited Liability Partnership, which serves as the commercial manager for a vessel named Yateeka. The company as per The Wire is publically listed as based in Gurugram, Haryana and was incorporated in 2022. It has been sanctioned for "knowingly engaging in a significant transaction for the transport of petroleum from Iran".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-possibility-of-direct-talks-iran-on-high-alert-amid-fears-of-attacks-on-nuclear-sites-by-us-israel-8756336">'No possibility of direct talks': Iran on 'high alert' amid fears of attacks on nuclear sites by US, Israel</a>
- Cosmos Lines Inc, a company based in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, has been sanctioned for "knowingly engaging in a significant transaction for the sale or transport of petroleum or petroleum products from Iran."
- One Austinship Management Private Limited, based in Noida, the commercial and ISM manager of the vessel Amak has been listed for "knowingly engaging in a significant transaction for the transport of petroleum from Iran."
- Flux Maritime LLP, which was set up in 2023 and is based out of Navi Mumbai, has also been named in the Office of Foreign Assets Control's sanctions list.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-steps-up-sanctions-on-russia-to-keep-up-pressure-as-us-prepares-for-talks-8735794">EU steps up sanctions on Russia to keep up &lsquo;pressure&rsquo; as US prepares for talks</a>
In this second batch of sanctions targeting Iran, the Trump administration has also named: Kangan Petro Refinery Company (Iran), Alkonost Maritime DMCC (UAE) [along with its vessels Meng Xin and Phoenix I], Oceanend Shipping Ltd (Seychelles) [and its vessel Asterix], IMS Ltd (Malaysia) [and its oil tanker Chamtang], Violet 1 an Peterpaul, and Octane Energy Group FZCO (UAE).
(With inputs from agencies)

World | India News | Discover how four Indian firms, including BSM Marine and Cosmos Lines, face US sanctions allegedly for engaging in Iran's oil trade.

Four India-based firms are among the 22 entities and 13 vessels sanctioned on Monday (Feb 24) by the United States for their alleged involvement in Iran's petroleum and petrochemical industry. The sanctions follow US President Donald Trump's decision to reinstate his "maximum pressure" policy of sanctions against Tehran. "Iran continues to rely on a shadowy network of vessels, shippers, and brokers to facilitate its oil sales and fund its destabilising activities," said US Treasury Scott Bessent announcing the designations. Also read | Watch | Trump 'humiliates' Macron: Snubs, tense handshakes and more from White House meet "The United States will use all our available tools to target all aspects of Iran's oil supply chain, and anyone who deals in Iranian oil exposes themselves to significant sanctions risk," he added. Which Indian firms have been sanctioned? The sanctions seek to disrupt "efforts by Iran to amass oil revenues to fund terrorists' activities," said the US. Indian firms named in the sanctions include: - BSM Marine Limited Liability Partnership, which serves as the commercial manager for a vessel named Yateeka. The company as per The Wire is publically listed as based in Gurugram, Haryana and was incorporated in 2022. It has been sanctioned for "knowingly engaging in a significant transaction for the transport of petroleum from Iran". Also read | 'No possibility of direct talks': Iran on 'high alert' amid fears of attacks on nuclear sites by US, Israel - Cosmos Lines Inc, a company based in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, has been sanctioned for "knowingly engaging in a significant transaction for the sale or transport of petroleum or petroleum products from Iran." - One Austinship Management Private Limited, based in Noida, the commercial and ISM manager of the vessel Amak has been listed for "knowingly engaging in a significant transaction for the transport of petroleum from Iran." - Flux Maritime LLP, which was set up in 2023 and is based out of Navi Mumbai, has also been named in the Office of Foreign Assets Control's sanctions list. Also read | EU steps up sanctions on Russia to keep up ‘pressure’ as US prepares for talks In this second batch of sanctions targeting Iran, the Trump administration has also named: Kangan Petro Refinery Company (Iran), Alkonost Maritime DMCC (UAE) [along with its vessels Meng Xin and Phoenix I], Oceanend Shipping Ltd (Seychelles) [and its vessel Asterix], IMS Ltd (Malaysia) [and its oil tanker Chamtang], Violet 1 an Peterpaul, and Octane Energy Group FZCO (UAE). (With inputs from agencies)

Four Indian firms among those sanctioned by Trump administration for 'knowingly engaging' in Iran's oil trade

Maha Shivratri marked the conclusion of the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 on February 26, with devotees flocking to Triveni Sangam for the final holy dip. Watch this report for more details!

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: World's largest religious gathering draws to a close

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced that the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway project has come to a halt due to Myanmar's internal conflicts.
The completion of the highway is considered to be a game changer in India's neighbourhood policy in engaging with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-us-and-ukraine-reach-deal-on-rare-minerals-final-amrit-snan-at-maha-kumbh-and-more-8757364">Morning news brief: US and Ukraine 'reach deal' on rare minerals; final 'amrit snan' at Maha Kumbh, and more</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">India's "Neighbourhood First" policy&nbsp;</h2>
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India's "Neighbourhood First" policy achievements, noting substantial advancements in ties with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar.
He cited India's role in shipping vaccines to neighbouring nations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"There has been steady growth and deepening of ties between New Delhi and ASEAN, which should be further leveraged by all concerned," Jaishankar said at a session on 'Act East, Act Fast and Act First' at the Advantage Assam Summit in Guwahati.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/triveni-sangam-sees-millions-of-devotees-gather-at-prayagraj-for-final-amrit-snan-of-maha-kumbh-2025-on-mahashivratri-8757216">Mahashivratri at Maha Kumbh Mela: Millions of devotees gather in Prayagraj for final 'amrit snan'</a>
"The situation in Myanmar has paused the IMTT Highway project... We cannot allow this [Myanmar unrest] to block something so momentous. Practical solutions will have to be found to ensure the advancement of this initiative," he said.
<h2 dir="ltr">1,400-km-long highway would link India with Southeast Asia by land</h2>
Till July 2023, at least 70 per cent of construction work on the IMTT highway had been completed. The 1,400-km-long highway would link India, Myanmar, and Thailand by land, promoting trade and economic cooperation among the three nations. It will give a boost to trade, business, health, education and tourism ties among the three countries.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbse-to-conduct-class-10-board-exams-twice-a-year-from-2026-8756950">CBSE to conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year from 2026</a>
The highway was intended to start from Moreh in Manipur, India, pass through Myanmar, and reach Mae Sot in Thailand.
No timeline for the completion and operationalisation of the trilateral highway has been given. The strategic highway project has been delayed many times. Earlier, the government had been aiming to make the highway operational by December 2019.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: The India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway project faces delays as S Jaishankar cites Myanmar's internal conflicts as the primary cause for the halt.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced that the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway project has come to a halt due to Myanmar's internal conflicts. The completion of the highway is considered to be a game changer in India's neighbourhood policy in engaging with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Also read | Morning news brief: US and Ukraine 'reach deal' on rare minerals; final 'amrit snan' at Maha Kumbh, and more India's "Neighbourhood First" policy External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India's "Neighbourhood First" policy achievements, noting substantial advancements in ties with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar. He cited India's role in shipping vaccines to neighbouring nations during the COVID-19 pandemic. "There has been steady growth and deepening of ties between New Delhi and ASEAN, which should be further leveraged by all concerned," Jaishankar said at a session on 'Act East, Act Fast and Act First' at the Advantage Assam Summit in Guwahati. Also read | Mahashivratri at Maha Kumbh Mela: Millions of devotees gather in Prayagraj for final 'amrit snan' "The situation in Myanmar has paused the IMTT Highway project... We cannot allow this [Myanmar unrest] to block something so momentous. Practical solutions will have to be found to ensure the advancement of this initiative," he said. 1,400-km-long highway would link India with Southeast Asia by land Till July 2023, at least 70 per cent of construction work on the IMTT highway had been completed. The 1,400-km-long highway would link India, Myanmar, and Thailand by land, promoting trade and economic cooperation among the three nations. It will give a boost to trade, business, health, education and tourism ties among the three countries. Also read | CBSE to conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year from 2026 The highway was intended to start from Moreh in Manipur, India, pass through Myanmar, and reach Mae Sot in Thailand. No timeline for the completion and operationalisation of the trilateral highway has been given. The strategic highway project has been delayed many times. Earlier, the government had been aiming to make the highway operational by December 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Jaishankar announces halt on Asian Highway project due to Myanmar's internal conflicts

Amid chants of 'Har Har Mahadev,' thousands of devotees thronged the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj on Wednesday (Feb 26) for the last sacred dip of the 45-day-long Maha Kumbh. The last bath coincides with the festival of Mahashivratri and is one of the most important muhurats (auspicious occasions) for the 'Amrit snan'.
The world's biggest religious gathering began on January 13 and has so far drawn a record-breaking 650 million pilgrims. As per the Uttar Pradesh Government, by 2 am on Wednesday, over 1.2 million (11.66 lakh) devotees had taken a dip, with the number swelling to 4.11 million (41.11 lakh) by 6 am.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-vehicle-zone-imposed-in-prayagraj-for-feb-26-maha-kumbh-melas-final-bathing-day-8754822">No-vehicle zone imposed in Prayagraj for Feb 26, Maha Kumbh Mela&rsquo;s final bathing day</a>
<h2>A spectacle of faith</h2>
As the final auspicious 'snan' began, pilgrims from across India&mdash;Gujarat, Karnataka, West Bengal, Bihar, Delhi, and beyond&mdash;flocked to the ghats, reported PTI news agency. Many international visitors arrived to witness the closing day of the world's largest spiritual gathering, Maha Kumbh.
Devotees camped overnight, eager to immerse themselves in the sacred waters at 'Brahma Muhurt' (a 48-minute period that begins one hour and 36 minutes before sunrise). Others performed their rituals before dawn. Security personnel kept a watchful eye, ensuring smooth movement and preventing overcrowding at the ghats.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pigs-got-dirt-vultures-got-up-cm-yogi-adityanaths-jibe-at-opposition-for-slamming-maha-kumbh-2025-8754696">&lsquo;Pigs got dirt, vultures got...': UP CM Yogi Adityanath's jibe at opposition for slamming Maha Kumbh 2025</a>
<h2>What is the significance of Mahashivratri at Maha Kumbh?</h2>
Mahashivratri, as per Hindu mythology, marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It holds profound importance at the Kumbh Mela. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva played a key role in the 'Samudra Manthan' (churning of the ocean), which led to the emergence of the 'Amrit Kumbh' (nectar pitcher) &mdash; the very essence of the Kumbh Mela.
<h2>Record-breaking footfall</h2>
The UP government revealed that on Tuesday alone, attendance at Maha Kumbh reached 13.3 million (1.33 crore), pushing the overall footfall past 640 million (64 crore) &mdash;surpassing the populations of every country except India and China.
To manage the overwhelming crowd, authorities enforced a "no-vehicle zone" across the Mela area and deployed extensive police personnel tasked with implementing strict crowd control.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-fires-back-at-lalu-yadav-over-faaltu-hai-kumbh-remark-jungle-raj-leaders-abusing-maha-kumbh-8753344">PM Modi slams Lalu Yadav over &lsquo;faaltu hai Kumbh&rsquo; remark: &lsquo;Jungle Raj leaders abusing Maha Kumbh&rsquo;</a>
DIG (Kumbh) Vaibhav Krishna emphasised the administration's focus on crowd control.&nbsp;
"We are prepared particularly to handle a two-pronged situation, one is the rush of devotees at the ghats including Sangam and the other is crowd management at five main shivalayas in the mela area where devotees will offer sacred waters to Lord Shiva," he told PTI.
"We are expecting the footfall on Wednesday to be higher than it was on Tuesday," he noted, adding that no VIP treatment will be given to anyone on the last day of Maha Kumbh.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | Millions gather at Prayagraj for the final Amrit Snan of Maha Kumbh on Mahashivratri, marking a significant spiritual event with chants of Har Har Mahadev.

Amid chants of 'Har Har Mahadev,' thousands of devotees thronged the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj on Wednesday (Feb 26) for the last sacred dip of the 45-day-long Maha Kumbh. The last bath coincides with the festival of Mahashivratri and is one of the most important muhurats (auspicious occasions) for the 'Amrit snan'. The world's biggest religious gathering began on January 13 and has so far drawn a record-breaking 650 million pilgrims. As per the Uttar Pradesh Government, by 2 am on Wednesday, over 1.2 million (11.66 lakh) devotees had taken a dip, with the number swelling to 4.11 million (41.11 lakh) by 6 am. Also read | No-vehicle zone imposed in Prayagraj for Feb 26, Maha Kumbh Mela’s final bathing day A spectacle of faith As the final auspicious 'snan' began, pilgrims from across India—Gujarat, Karnataka, West Bengal, Bihar, Delhi, and beyond—flocked to the ghats, reported PTI news agency. Many international visitors arrived to witness the closing day of the world's largest spiritual gathering, Maha Kumbh. Devotees camped overnight, eager to immerse themselves in the sacred waters at 'Brahma Muhurt' (a 48-minute period that begins one hour and 36 minutes before sunrise). Others performed their rituals before dawn. Security personnel kept a watchful eye, ensuring smooth movement and preventing overcrowding at the ghats. Also read | ‘Pigs got dirt, vultures got...': UP CM Yogi Adityanath's jibe at opposition for slamming Maha Kumbh 2025 What is the significance of Mahashivratri at Maha Kumbh? Mahashivratri, as per Hindu mythology, marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It holds profound importance at the Kumbh Mela. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva played a key role in the 'Samudra Manthan' (churning of the ocean), which led to the emergence of the 'Amrit Kumbh' (nectar pitcher) — the very essence of the Kumbh Mela. Record-breaking footfall The UP government revealed that on Tuesday alone, attendance at Maha Kumbh reached 13.3 million (1.33 crore), pushing the overall footfall past 640 million (64 crore) —surpassing the populations of every country except India and China. To manage the overwhelming crowd, authorities enforced a "no-vehicle zone" across the Mela area and deployed extensive police personnel tasked with implementing strict crowd control. Also read | PM Modi slams Lalu Yadav over ‘faaltu hai Kumbh’ remark: ‘Jungle Raj leaders abusing Maha Kumbh’ DIG (Kumbh) Vaibhav Krishna emphasised the administration's focus on crowd control. "We are prepared particularly to handle a two-pronged situation, one is the rush of devotees at the ghats including Sangam and the other is crowd management at five main shivalayas in the mela area where devotees will offer sacred waters to Lord Shiva," he told PTI. "We are expecting the footfall on Wednesday to be higher than it was on Tuesday," he noted, adding that no VIP treatment will be given to anyone on the last day of Maha Kumbh. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahashivratri at Maha Kumbh Mela: Millions of devotees gather in Prayagraj for final 'amrit snan'

From 2026, class 10 students will be able to take CBSE board exams twice in an academic session or choose between the two editions&mdash;one in February and another in May, officials said.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Tuesday approved draft norms, which will now be put in the public domain, and the stakeholders can submit their feedback by March 9, following which the policy will be finalised, they said.
Candidates will also have the option to appear for both examinations if they wish. Additionally, students will be allowed to skip specific subjects in the second attempt if they are already satisfied with the scores they have achieved in the first examination as well as particular subjects in the first attempt as well.
As per the draft norms, the first phase of the exams will be held from February 17 to March 6, while the second phase will be conducted from May 5 to 20.
"Both the examinations will be conducted on full syllabus, and the candidates will be allotted the same examination centres in the two editions. Exam fees will be enhanced and collected for both exams at the time of application filing," a senior board official said.
"The first and second editions of the board exams will also act as supplementary exams, and no special exams will be conducted in any circumstances," the official added.
The new National Education Policy (NEP) recommended that to eliminate the "high stakes" aspect of the board exams, all students will be allowed to take the exams on up to two occasions during any given school year.
The Board has clarified that no separate supplementary exams will be conducted under this system. Instead, the second session of the Board examination will serve as the supplementary exam for those who wish to improve their scores.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baseless-unnecessary-panic-cbse-rejects-2025-paper-leak-claims-8728970">'Baseless', 'unnecessary panic': CBSE rejects 2025 paper leak claims</a>
"The list of candidates (LOC) will be finalised in September of the preceding year. This means that for the February 2026 exam, the list will be finalised by September 2025. No new candidates will be allowed to register for the May 2026 exam if they were not part of the September 2025 list," the official said.
"Once the LOC is finalised, candidates will not be permitted to change their subjects. However, there is some flexibility in subject selection. If a candidate wishes to modify their subject choices, they can skip a subject in the first examination (February-March) and opt for a different subject in the second examination (May). However, if a candidate completes all subjects in the first exam, they will have to take the same set of subjects in the second exam if they choose to reappear," the official added.
The Board has also decided that for practical and internal assessments, the evaluation will be conducted only once per academic year. No separate certificates will be issued after the completion of the first examination in February-March.
"The final passing certificate and marksheet will be issued only after the May examination. This document will include the marks obtained in both exam sessions (if the candidate appeared in both) as well as the best of the two scores for each subject," the official said.
The new exam framework categorises subjects into seven groups: Language 1, Language 2, Elective 1, Elective 2, Elective 3, Regional and Foreign Languages, and Remaining Subjects.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India News | The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Tuesday approved draft norms, which will now be put in the public domain, and the stakeholders can submit their feedback by March 9, following which the policy will be finalised, they said.

From 2026, class 10 students will be able to take CBSE board exams twice in an academic session or choose between the two editions—one in February and another in May, officials said. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Tuesday approved draft norms, which will now be put in the public domain, and the stakeholders can submit their feedback by March 9, following which the policy will be finalised, they said. Candidates will also have the option to appear for both examinations if they wish. Additionally, students will be allowed to skip specific subjects in the second attempt if they are already satisfied with the scores they have achieved in the first examination as well as particular subjects in the first attempt as well. As per the draft norms, the first phase of the exams will be held from February 17 to March 6, while the second phase will be conducted from May 5 to 20. "Both the examinations will be conducted on full syllabus, and the candidates will be allotted the same examination centres in the two editions. Exam fees will be enhanced and collected for both exams at the time of application filing," a senior board official said. "The first and second editions of the board exams will also act as supplementary exams, and no special exams will be conducted in any circumstances," the official added. The new National Education Policy (NEP) recommended that to eliminate the "high stakes" aspect of the board exams, all students will be allowed to take the exams on up to two occasions during any given school year. The Board has clarified that no separate supplementary exams will be conducted under this system. Instead, the second session of the Board examination will serve as the supplementary exam for those who wish to improve their scores. Also read | 'Baseless', 'unnecessary panic': CBSE rejects 2025 paper leak claims "The list of candidates (LOC) will be finalised in September of the preceding year. This means that for the February 2026 exam, the list will be finalised by September 2025. No new candidates will be allowed to register for the May 2026 exam if they were not part of the September 2025 list," the official said. "Once the LOC is finalised, candidates will not be permitted to change their subjects. However, there is some flexibility in subject selection. If a candidate wishes to modify their subject choices, they can skip a subject in the first examination (February-March) and opt for a different subject in the second examination (May). However, if a candidate completes all subjects in the first exam, they will have to take the same set of subjects in the second exam if they choose to reappear," the official added. The Board has also decided that for practical and internal assessments, the evaluation will be conducted only once per academic year. No separate certificates will be issued after the completion of the first examination in February-March. "The final passing certificate and marksheet will be issued only after the May examination. This document will include the marks obtained in both exam sessions (if the candidate appeared in both) as well as the best of the two scores for each subject," the official said. The new exam framework categorises subjects into seven groups: Language 1, Language 2, Elective 1, Elective 2, Elective 3, Regional and Foreign Languages, and Remaining Subjects. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

CBSE to conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year from 2026

ANI | The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for Gujarat. The state is expected to experience extensive heat, with a two--to three-degree rise in temperature. According to the IMD, the state will experience hot waves between February 25 and 27.
Temperature in the coastal regions can also rise, whereas Kutch and the South Saurashtra region can experience immense heat. Due to the same, a yellow alert has been issued as a precautionary measure.
As per IMD scientist AK Das, there will be no change in the minimum temperature for the next five days, however, the maximum temperature can experience a rise of two to three degrees. Also, the coastal areas can have hot and humid conditions, whereas the area near Ahmedabad will have clear skies.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-thanks-people-gujarat-for-blessing-bjp-with-their-support-in-election-8734028">PM Modi thanks people of Gujarat for blessing BJP with their support in election</a>
"According to today's forecast, the weather will remain dry for the next seven days. There will be no change in the minimum temperature in the coming five days, but the maximum temperature may increase in the next 2 to 3 days. After that, the temperature may decrease by 2 to 3 degrees. A yellow alert has been issued for the coastal areas of Saurashtra and South Gujarat on 24, 25, and 26. Hot and humid weather may be felt in this region, and Ahmedabad and the surrounding areas will have clear skies," IMD scientist AK Das said on Tuesday.
While the Indian western coast is experiencing excessive heat two months before the start of the summer season, the northern regions, especially the hilly areas, have received a fresh spell of snowfall. Last week, the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir received a fresh spell of snowfall.
The Meteorological Department of Srinagar predicted snow and rainfall in many areas of the state from February 26 to 28. As per the weather department, temperatures across Srinagar city were recorded below 5 degrees Celsius, whereas the temperature in Gulmarg was 1 degree Celsius.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news: Temperature in the coastal regions can also rise, whereas Kutch and the South Saurashtra region can experience immense heat, leading to a yellow alert.

ANI | The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for Gujarat. The state is expected to experience extensive heat, with a two--to three-degree rise in temperature. According to the IMD, the state will experience hot waves between February 25 and 27. Temperature in the coastal regions can also rise, whereas Kutch and the South Saurashtra region can experience immense heat. Due to the same, a yellow alert has been issued as a precautionary measure. As per IMD scientist AK Das, there will be no change in the minimum temperature for the next five days, however, the maximum temperature can experience a rise of two to three degrees. Also, the coastal areas can have hot and humid conditions, whereas the area near Ahmedabad will have clear skies. Also read: PM Modi thanks people of Gujarat for blessing BJP with their support in election "According to today's forecast, the weather will remain dry for the next seven days. There will be no change in the minimum temperature in the coming five days, but the maximum temperature may increase in the next 2 to 3 days. After that, the temperature may decrease by 2 to 3 degrees. A yellow alert has been issued for the coastal areas of Saurashtra and South Gujarat on 24, 25, and 26. Hot and humid weather may be felt in this region, and Ahmedabad and the surrounding areas will have clear skies," IMD scientist AK Das said on Tuesday. While the Indian western coast is experiencing excessive heat two months before the start of the summer season, the northern regions, especially the hilly areas, have received a fresh spell of snowfall. Last week, the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir received a fresh spell of snowfall. The Meteorological Department of Srinagar predicted snow and rainfall in many areas of the state from February 26 to 28. As per the weather department, temperatures across Srinagar city were recorded below 5 degrees Celsius, whereas the temperature in Gulmarg was 1 degree Celsius. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Yellow alert issued in Gujarat for next three days, state likely to witness extensive heatwave

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday conducted searches at 60 locations across India as part of its probe into the USD 757.26 million GainBitcoin cryptocurrency scam, officials said.&nbsp;
The searches were spread across multiple cities, including Delhi NCR, Pune, Chandigarh, Nanded, Kolhapur, and Bengaluru, targeting premises allegedly linked to key accused individuals, a CBI spokesperson said in a statement.
The raided premises are linked to key accused, their associates, and entities suspected of laundering ill-gotten gains from the scam.&nbsp;
As the CBI raided, they recovered some crypto wallets, incriminating digital evidence, digital devices, and evidence from email/clouds.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bitcoin-hits-new-record-high-above-109000-awaiting-trump-8636981" rel="dofollow">Bitcoin hits record high of $109,000 ahead of Trump's inauguration ceremony</a>
<h2>What is GainBitcoin?</h2>
Launched in 2015 by Amit Bhardwaj and a network of agents, GainBitcoin was a Ponzi scheme and was operated through multiple websites under the facade of a company named Variabletech Pte. Ltd.
The scheme lured investors by promising them lucrative monthly returns of 10 per cent in Bitcoin for 18 months.&nbsp;
It further encouraged investors to buy Bitcoin from different exchanges and invest them in GainBitcoin through cloud mining contracts.&nbsp;
The model followed a multi-level marketing (MLM) structure, commonly associated with pyramid-structured Ponzi schemes, where payouts are dependent on bringing in new investors.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luxury-brands-to-consider-accepting-crypto-payments-as-bitcoin-soars-785112" rel="dofollow">Luxury brands to consider accepting crypto payments as bitcoin soars</a>
<h2>What was the scam?</h2>
In the beginning, investors received payouts in Bitcoin, however, the scheme later began to collapse, with fresh investments drying up by 2017.&nbsp;
GainBitcoin then unilaterally switched payouts to an in-house cryptocurrency called MCAP, which held significantly less value than Bitcoin, further misleading investors.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wales-man-fights-to-recover-ps569-million-worth-of-bitcoin-thrown-away-by-ex-girlfriend-779724" rel="dofollow">Wales man fights to recover $ 710 million worth of bitcoin thrown in garbage dump by ex-girlfriend</a>
Following this, investors began to register FIRs all across India, alleging large-scale fraud and money laundering. Cases were registered in Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Punjab, Chandigarh, Delhi, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.&nbsp;
Later, the Supreme Court transferred them to the CBI for a unified investigation.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Searches were spread across cities, including Delhi NCR, Pune, Chandigarh, Nanded, Kolhapur, and Bengaluru, targeting premises allegedly linked to key accused.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday conducted searches at 60 locations across India as part of its probe into the USD 757.26 million GainBitcoin cryptocurrency scam, officials said. The searches were spread across multiple cities, including Delhi NCR, Pune, Chandigarh, Nanded, Kolhapur, and Bengaluru, targeting premises allegedly linked to key accused individuals, a CBI spokesperson said in a statement. The raided premises are linked to key accused, their associates, and entities suspected of laundering ill-gotten gains from the scam. As the CBI raided, they recovered some crypto wallets, incriminating digital evidence, digital devices, and evidence from email/clouds. Also read: Bitcoin hits record high of $109,000 ahead of Trump's inauguration ceremony What is GainBitcoin? Launched in 2015 by Amit Bhardwaj and a network of agents, GainBitcoin was a Ponzi scheme and was operated through multiple websites under the facade of a company named Variabletech Pte. Ltd. The scheme lured investors by promising them lucrative monthly returns of 10 per cent in Bitcoin for 18 months. It further encouraged investors to buy Bitcoin from different exchanges and invest them in GainBitcoin through cloud mining contracts. The model followed a multi-level marketing (MLM) structure, commonly associated with pyramid-structured Ponzi schemes, where payouts are dependent on bringing in new investors. Also read: Luxury brands to consider accepting crypto payments as bitcoin soars What was the scam? In the beginning, investors received payouts in Bitcoin, however, the scheme later began to collapse, with fresh investments drying up by 2017. GainBitcoin then unilaterally switched payouts to an in-house cryptocurrency called MCAP, which held significantly less value than Bitcoin, further misleading investors. Also read: Wales man fights to recover $ 710 million worth of bitcoin thrown in garbage dump by ex-girlfriend Following this, investors began to register FIRs all across India, alleging large-scale fraud and money laundering. Cases were registered in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Chandigarh, Delhi, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. Later, the Supreme Court transferred them to the CBI for a unified investigation. (With inputs from agencies)

What is GainBitcoin case? CBI conducts searches at over 60 locations in $757.26mn cryptocurrency scam

Conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar wrote a letter addressed to Elon Musk, expressing his desire to invest $2 billion in the billionaire&rsquo;s X platform.&nbsp;
Chandrashekhar, who is currently held in Delhi's Tihar jail for involvement in a 2015 multi-million dollar fraud, said that investment would make him a &ldquo;proud Indian&rdquo; if accepted.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/conman-sukesh-chandrasekhar-declares-overseas-income-offers-to-pay-tax-in-a-letter-to-finance-minister-8617499">Conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar declares overseas income, offers to pay tax in letter to finance minister</a>
In the letter, the conman wrote, &ldquo;I am taking this Privilege and Pride today to say, Hey Elon, I am ready and wanting to invest &lsquo;1 Billion USD&rsquo; immediately and another &lsquo;1 Billion USD&rsquo; next year in your Company X, making a total &lsquo;2 Billion USD&rsquo; as investment,&rdquo; according to HT.
<h2>Conman congratulates Musk</h2>
Chandrashekhar also congratulated Musk on becoming the head of the US Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE) under Trump&rsquo;s administration and referred to him as his &ldquo;big brother&rdquo;.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sukesh-chandrashekhar-aplogises-to-jacqueline-fernandez-in-new-letter-its-gonna-be-a-fresh-start-8602428">Sukesh Chandrashekhar apologises to Jacqueline Fernandez in new letter: It's gonna be a fresh start</a>
&ldquo;This surely is gonna be a Revolution, you are the Man,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;Elon, you are someone, who I really look up to, you are solid, Tankman, Bulletproof, what you have built is amazing, being a part of that build would be the most craziest and a greatest thing for me,&rdquo; the letter said.
He further added that X was his and &ldquo;Lady Love&rsquo;s&rdquo; favourite social media platform, referring to the actress Jacqueline Fernandez with whom he claims to have a relationship. He has also written letters to the Sri Lankan celebrity, although she denies his claims.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-of-donald-trump-sucking-elon-musks-feet-plays-on-govt-screen-watch-8754577">AI video of Donald Trump sucking Elon Musk's feet plays on govt office screens - WATCH</a>
<h2>Letters from jail</h2>
This is not the first time that the conman has written letters to notable personalities from prison. Last month, he wrote a letter to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, declaring his overseas income of Rs 22,410 crore ($2591.5 million) for the fiscal year 2024-2025.
Earlier this month, Chandrashekhar proposed to CEO Sam Altman to invest in OpenAI&rsquo;s Indian operations, offering to invest $1 billion immediately and another $2 billion in the next five years.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-slams-this-news-agency-denies-threat-to-cut-starlink-over-ukraine-minerals-deal-8748693">'This is false': Elon Musk slams THIS news agency, denies threat to cut Starlink over Ukraine minerals deal</a>
&ldquo;Sam, why go to venture capital investors? Why should the big boys always have the fun? Sam, please just take my money,&rdquo; he wrote in his letter to Altman.
He has also written letters to former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | Chandrashekhar, who is currently lodged in Delhi's Tihar jail for involvement in a 2015 multi-million dollar fraud, said that investment would make him a “proud Indian” if accepted.

Conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar wrote a letter addressed to Elon Musk, expressing his desire to invest $2 billion in the billionaire’s X platform. Chandrashekhar, who is currently held in Delhi's Tihar jail for involvement in a 2015 multi-million dollar fraud, said that investment would make him a “proud Indian” if accepted. Also read | Conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar declares overseas income, offers to pay tax in letter to finance minister In the letter, the conman wrote, “I am taking this Privilege and Pride today to say, Hey Elon, I am ready and wanting to invest ‘1 Billion USD’ immediately and another ‘1 Billion USD’ next year in your Company X, making a total ‘2 Billion USD’ as investment,” according to HT. Conman congratulates Musk Chandrashekhar also congratulated Musk on becoming the head of the US Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE) under Trump’s administration and referred to him as his “big brother”. Also read | Sukesh Chandrashekhar apologises to Jacqueline Fernandez in new letter: It's gonna be a fresh start “This surely is gonna be a Revolution, you are the Man,” he said. “Elon, you are someone, who I really look up to, you are solid, Tankman, Bulletproof, what you have built is amazing, being a part of that build would be the most craziest and a greatest thing for me,” the letter said. He further added that X was his and “Lady Love’s” favourite social media platform, referring to the actress Jacqueline Fernandez with whom he claims to have a relationship. He has also written letters to the Sri Lankan celebrity, although she denies his claims. Also read | AI video of Donald Trump sucking Elon Musk's feet plays on govt office screens - WATCH Letters from jail This is not the first time that the conman has written letters to notable personalities from prison. Last month, he wrote a letter to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, declaring his overseas income of Rs 22,410 crore ($2591.5 million) for the fiscal year 2024-2025. Earlier this month, Chandrashekhar proposed to CEO Sam Altman to invest in OpenAI’s Indian operations, offering to invest $1 billion immediately and another $2 billion in the next five years. Also read | 'This is false': Elon Musk slams THIS news agency, denies threat to cut Starlink over Ukraine minerals deal “Sam, why go to venture capital investors? Why should the big boys always have the fun? Sam, please just take my money,” he wrote in his letter to Altman. He has also written letters to former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. (With inputs from agencies)

Conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar writes to Elon Musk, offers to invest $2 billion in X

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised.
In a shocking incident, two women were caught throwing a body stuffed inside a suitcase into the Hooghly River in Kolkata on Tuesday (Feb 25). The women were detained after locals called police on suspicion.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-murder-in-kolkata-women-and-teenage-girl-found-dead-wrists-slashed-in-tangra-police-suspect-familys-involvement-8742258">Triple Murder in Kolkata: Two women and teenage girl found dead in Tangra, police suspect family's involvement</a>
According to the police, the locals alerted them of two women who were allegedly attempting to dump the body into the river near Kumartuli Ghat in North Kolkata on Tuesday morning. The deceased has been identified as Sumita Ghosh.
<h2>Locals alerted police</h2>
The locals noticed the unusual behaviour of the two women, raising suspicion and prompting them to intervene. According to witnesses, when asked about the body in the suitcase, the two first claimed it to be a dog&rsquo;s body. However, locals refused to believe and insisted that the remains were of a human.
When the trolley bag was opened, the horrific sight revealed the headless body of a woman. Police were promptly informed, and the women were detained. The bag containing the body was seized by the police.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sheena-bora-murder-case-sc-rejects-indranis-plea-to-travel-abroad-says-no-guarantee-you-will-come-back-8714559">Sheena Bora murder case: SC rejects Indrani's plea to travel abroad, says 'No guarantee you will come back'</a>
<h2>Investigation underway</h2>
The crowd became angry as they sought answers from the women and demanded they be handed over to them. They alleged that the women murdered the deceased and were trying to dispose of the body. However, the police assured the locals that an investigation would be launched.
The accused have been identified as Falguni Ghosh and her mother, Aarati Ghosh. Joint CP Crime Rupesh Kumar said, &ldquo;They were carrying the dead body of one Sumita Ghosh in a trolley bag as per the statement of Falguni Ghosh.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-mla-amanatullah-khan-booked-for-allegedly-leading-attack-to-free-attempted-murder-accused-8708839">AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan booked for allegedly leading attack to free murder attempt accused</a>
According to the police, the investigation revealed that the two women reached the Kumartuli Ghat in a taxi after making a stop at Princep Ghat.
Reportedly, Falguni confessed that Sumita Ghosh was her aunt-in-law. The police are conducting further investigation to determine the circumstances and motive behind this gruesome act.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending: According to the police, the locals alerted them of two women who were allegedly attempting to dump the body into the river near Kumartuli Ghat in North Kolkata on Tuesday morning.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. In a shocking incident, two women were caught throwing a body stuffed inside a suitcase into the Hooghly River in Kolkata on Tuesday (Feb 25). The women were detained after locals called police on suspicion. Also read | Triple Murder in Kolkata: Two women and teenage girl found dead in Tangra, police suspect family's involvement According to the police, the locals alerted them of two women who were allegedly attempting to dump the body into the river near Kumartuli Ghat in North Kolkata on Tuesday morning. The deceased has been identified as Sumita Ghosh. Locals alerted police The locals noticed the unusual behaviour of the two women, raising suspicion and prompting them to intervene. According to witnesses, when asked about the body in the suitcase, the two first claimed it to be a dog’s body. However, locals refused to believe and insisted that the remains were of a human. When the trolley bag was opened, the horrific sight revealed the headless body of a woman. Police were promptly informed, and the women were detained. The bag containing the body was seized by the police. Also read | Sheena Bora murder case: SC rejects Indrani's plea to travel abroad, says 'No guarantee you will come back' Investigation underway The crowd became angry as they sought answers from the women and demanded they be handed over to them. They alleged that the women murdered the deceased and were trying to dispose of the body. However, the police assured the locals that an investigation would be launched. The accused have been identified as Falguni Ghosh and her mother, Aarati Ghosh. Joint CP Crime Rupesh Kumar said, “They were carrying the dead body of one Sumita Ghosh in a trolley bag as per the statement of Falguni Ghosh.” Also read | AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan booked for allegedly leading attack to free murder attempt accused According to the police, the investigation revealed that the two women reached the Kumartuli Ghat in a taxi after making a stop at Princep Ghat. Reportedly, Falguni confessed that Sumita Ghosh was her aunt-in-law. The police are conducting further investigation to determine the circumstances and motive behind this gruesome act. (With inputs from agencies)

Shocking! Mother, daughter caught disposing of body into Hooghly River in Kolkata

Former Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi, on Tuesday (Feb 25), said in response to the CAG report presented in the assembly that the audit document actually exposed corruption under the old liquor policy, which was in place from 2017-21.
She alleged that the residents of Delhi suffered losses due to the illegal importation of liquor from neighbouring states Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
"The excise audit report was presented in the Delhi Assembly today. Its seven chapters are on the excise policy from 2017-21, and one chapter is on the new excise policy. The Delhi government had exposed the flaws and corruption of the old excise policy to the people of Delhi. Under that policy, liquor was brought illegally from Haryana and UP. We all know whose government is there in these states and who must be getting the profit," Atishi said, while addressing a press conference.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7khcqwz-i87llt1t-o8w4kymx">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | CAG Report tabled in the Delhi Assembly | Former CM, and Delhi LoP Atishi says, "The excise audit report was presented in the Delhi Assembly today. Its seven chapters are on the excise policy from 2017-21, and one chapter is on the new excise policy. The Delhi government&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/70AGlTecjr">pic.twitter.com/70AGlTecjr</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1894333436741259617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
She also highlighted that the new excise policy aimed to promote transparency and increase revenue.
"This report is repeating the same thing that we said that the people of Delhi are incurring losses due to the old policy. This policy makes it clear that the AAP government took the right decision by removing the old policy," she said.
"This report has confirmed our point. There was corruption in how much liquor was being sold. This report shows that more than 28 per cent of corruption was being done by the contractors, and the money was going into the pockets of the brokers," Attishi added.
"It shows that black marketing of liquor was happening, and everyone knew which party people had the liquor contracts. The liquor contractors made profits by calculating the cost price in an incorrect manner," she said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cag-report-delhi-govt-suffered-losses-of-rs-2000-crore-due-to-liquor-policy-8754958">Also read: CAG report: Delhi govt suffered losses of Rs 2,000 crore due to liquor policy</a>
<h2>BJP slams Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia</h2>
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday (Feb 25) tabled the CAG report in the assembly. The report revealed that the Delhi government suffered cumulative losses of over Rs 2,000 crore (USD 242.42 million) due to the 2021-2022 excise policy.&nbsp;
The Aap Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi had implemented the liquor policy on November 17, 2021. But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022 as corruption allegations were levelled against the party. AAP denied the accusations.&nbsp;
The investigating agencies have said that the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policybrought by AAP. The agencies have also alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation, and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits.
Delhi BJP chief Virendraa Sachdeva alleged that AAP looted the people of Delhi and scammed them.
"This CAG report exposes the black deeds of Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and AAP. It tells how AAP looted and scammed the people of Delhi...how they opened shops at residential and religious places," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday (Feb 25) tabled the CAG report in the assembly which noted that the Delhi government suffered cumulative losses of over Rs 2,000 crore (USD 242.42 million) due to the 2021-2022 excise policy.

Former Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi, on Tuesday (Feb 25), said in response to the CAG report presented in the assembly that the audit document actually exposed corruption under the old liquor policy, which was in place from 2017-21. She alleged that the residents of Delhi suffered losses due to the illegal importation of liquor from neighbouring states Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. "The excise audit report was presented in the Delhi Assembly today. Its seven chapters are on the excise policy from 2017-21, and one chapter is on the new excise policy. The Delhi government had exposed the flaws and corruption of the old excise policy to the people of Delhi. Under that policy, liquor was brought illegally from Haryana and UP. We all know whose government is there in these states and who must be getting the profit," Atishi said, while addressing a press conference. #WATCH | CAG Report tabled in the Delhi Assembly | Former CM, and Delhi LoP Atishi says, "The excise audit report was presented in the Delhi Assembly today. Its seven chapters are on the excise policy from 2017-21, and one chapter is on the new excise policy. The Delhi government… pic.twitter.com/70AGlTecjr — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2025 She also highlighted that the new excise policy aimed to promote transparency and increase revenue. "This report is repeating the same thing that we said that the people of Delhi are incurring losses due to the old policy. This policy makes it clear that the AAP government took the right decision by removing the old policy," she said. "This report has confirmed our point. There was corruption in how much liquor was being sold. This report shows that more than 28 per cent of corruption was being done by the contractors, and the money was going into the pockets of the brokers," Attishi added. "It shows that black marketing of liquor was happening, and everyone knew which party people had the liquor contracts. The liquor contractors made profits by calculating the cost price in an incorrect manner," she said. Also read: CAG report: Delhi govt suffered losses of Rs 2,000 crore due to liquor policy BJP slams Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday (Feb 25) tabled the CAG report in the assembly. The report revealed that the Delhi government suffered cumulative losses of over Rs 2,000 crore (USD 242.42 million) due to the 2021-2022 excise policy. The Aap Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi had implemented the liquor policy on November 17, 2021. But it was scrapped at the end of September 2022 as corruption allegations were levelled against the party. AAP denied the accusations. The investigating agencies have said that the profit margins of wholesalers were increased from 5 per cent to 12 per cent under the new policybrought by AAP. The agencies have also alleged that the new policy resulted in cartelisation, and those ineligible for liquor licences were favoured for monetary benefits. Delhi BJP chief Virendraa Sachdeva alleged that AAP looted the people of Delhi and scammed them. "This CAG report exposes the black deeds of Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and AAP. It tells how AAP looted and scammed the people of Delhi...how they opened shops at residential and religious places," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

CAG Report: AAP’s Atishi links corruption to old policies, BJP fires back with ‘black deeds’ remark

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