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AI is revolutionizing the global energy sector by optimizing energy consumption, enhancing grid management, and integrating renewable sources more efficiently. Prime Minister Modi highlighted AI’s role in shaping our economy, security, and society, emphasizing its potential to create a greener, more sustainable future for all.

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SN Subrahmanyan, the Chairman and Managing Director of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), shared concerns about the decline in the number of workers willing to migrate for jobs at the CII's Mystic South Global Linkages Summit 2025. Watch this report for more details!

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TMC MP Sushmita Dev on Thursday raised concerns over the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) report on the Waqf Bill presented in the Rajya Sabha, alleging that the dissent note was censored, with portions of it being hidden using "black ink or white paper."
Dev questioned the state of democracy in the country, emphasising that everyone's opinion must be visible for the nation to be considered democratic.
"If you see, they have censored using black ink or white paper the dissent note on top of the committee report, which has been tabled today. If we consider this country a democracy, then everyone's opinion must be visible. How can you hide our opinions? We have protested against this in Rajya Sabha today," the TMC MP said.
The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday amid ruckus and continuous sloganeering from opposition members.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Medha Vishram Kulkarni presented the report. She also tabled a copy of the record of evidence given before the panel on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
The JPC report's presentation was followed by uproar in the Upper House of the Parliament, leading to the adjournment of the session till 11.20 am. However, soon after the proceedings were resumed, the house again witnessed the disruption from the opposition MPs.
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Earlier today, Jagadambika Pal, BJP MP and Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, said that the JPC will present its report in Parliament after six months of nationwide consultations.
Speaking to ANI, the JPC Chairman emphasised the committee toured the country to collect inputs before finalising the report, which included the adoption of 25 amendments across 14 clauses.
"Today, the JPC will produce its report in the Parliament. To have a detailed discussion and deliberation, the JPC was formed six months ago. In the last six months, we have prepared a report after touring the whole nation. We have adopted 25 amendments in 14 clauses," he said.
The JPC on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill adopted the draft report and the amended revised bill on January 29. However, opposition leaders submitted their dissent notes on the report.
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Trinamool Congress MPs Kalyan Banerjee and Md Nadimul Haque, who were members of the panel, had protested "the expunction of key portions of their dissent notes" submitted to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
Banerjee and Haque alleged that the committee's conclusions were biased and predetermined and claimed that the committee ignored stakeholder representations, witness depositions, and submissions made by opposition members.
The Waqf Act of 1995, enacted to regulate Waqf properties, has long been criticised for issues such as mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aims to address these challenges by introducing reforms such as digitisation, enhanced audits, improved transparency, and legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied properties.&nbsp;
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 | TMC MP Sushmita Dev questioned the state of democracy in the country, emphasising that everyone's opinion must be visible for the nation to be considered democratic.

TMC MP Sushmita Dev on Thursday raised concerns over the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) report on the Waqf Bill presented in the Rajya Sabha, alleging that the dissent note was censored, with portions of it being hidden using "black ink or white paper." Dev questioned the state of democracy in the country, emphasising that everyone's opinion must be visible for the nation to be considered democratic. "If you see, they have censored using black ink or white paper the dissent note on top of the committee report, which has been tabled today. If we consider this country a democracy, then everyone's opinion must be visible. How can you hide our opinions? We have protested against this in Rajya Sabha today," the TMC MP said. The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was tabled in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday amid ruckus and continuous sloganeering from opposition members. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Medha Vishram Kulkarni presented the report. She also tabled a copy of the record of evidence given before the panel on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The JPC report's presentation was followed by uproar in the Upper House of the Parliament, leading to the adjournment of the session till 11.20 am. However, soon after the proceedings were resumed, the house again witnessed the disruption from the opposition MPs. Also read | Indian FM Nirmala Sitharaman introduces Income Tax Bill 2025 in Lok Sabha Earlier today, Jagadambika Pal, BJP MP and Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, said that the JPC will present its report in Parliament after six months of nationwide consultations. Speaking to ANI, the JPC Chairman emphasised the committee toured the country to collect inputs before finalising the report, which included the adoption of 25 amendments across 14 clauses. "Today, the JPC will produce its report in the Parliament. To have a detailed discussion and deliberation, the JPC was formed six months ago. In the last six months, we have prepared a report after touring the whole nation. We have adopted 25 amendments in 14 clauses," he said. The JPC on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill adopted the draft report and the amended revised bill on January 29. However, opposition leaders submitted their dissent notes on the report. Also read | Indian govt to introduce new Income Tax Bill 2025 in Parliament - What to expect? Trinamool Congress MPs Kalyan Banerjee and Md Nadimul Haque, who were members of the panel, had protested "the expunction of key portions of their dissent notes" submitted to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Banerjee and Haque alleged that the committee's conclusions were biased and predetermined and claimed that the committee ignored stakeholder representations, witness depositions, and submissions made by opposition members. The Waqf Act of 1995, enacted to regulate Waqf properties, has long been criticised for issues such as mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aims to address these challenges by introducing reforms such as digitisation, enhanced audits, improved transparency, and legal mechanisms to reclaim illegally occupied properties. 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.

‘Censored dissent note on top of committee report’: TMC MP Sushmita Dev on JPC’s Waqf Bill report

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to meet with tech billionaire Elon Musk during his US tour. he meeting could see discussions around Starlink’s long-awaited entry into India. Watch this report for more details!

Indian PM Modi likely to meet Elon Musk during his US trip

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The Supreme Court of India has pulled up the central agency ED (Enforcement Directorate) for using the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to keep an accused in jail and questioned if the provision was "being misused" like the dowry law. A bench of Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan made the observation on Wednesday while granting bail to Arun Pati Tripathi, a former excise officer from Chhattisgarh.
The top court expressed surprise at how the accused was kept in custody if a court order taking cognisance of the complaint was quashed by Chhattisgarh High Court.
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"The concept of PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) cannot be that a person should remain in jail. If the tendency is to keep the person in jail, even after cognisance is quashed, what can be said? See what happened in 498A cases, PMLA also being misused like that?," the bench asked.
Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code protects married women from cruelty by their husbands and their relatives. During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate (ED), opposed the grant of bail, saying crooks could not get away on technical grounds.
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Raju submitted cognisance was quashed for lack of sanction and that it was irrelevant for bail. Expressing dismay, the bench said, "It is shocking that the ED knows the cognisance was quashed, yet this was suppressed. We should summon the officers. The ED must come clean." "What kind of signals are we giving? Order taking cognisance is quashed and the person is in custody," the top court bench said.
The apex court was hearing an appeal of Tripathi, an Indian Telecom Services officer, challenging a Chhattisgarh High Court order denying him bail in connection with the high-profile liquor scam in the state. Tripathi, who served on deputation as special secretary and managing director of the Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited, was arrested after an ED investigation.
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The ED initiated the probe based on a predicate offence registered by the economic offences wing, Raipur, under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act.
The federal agency alleged a criminal syndicate comprising senior government officials, private individuals, and political executives manipulated the state's excise policies to extort illegal earnings from the liquor trade.
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India News | A bench of Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan made the observation on Wednesday while granting bail to Arun Pati Tripathi, a former excise officer from Chhattisgarh.

The Supreme Court of India has pulled up the central agency ED (Enforcement Directorate) for using the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to keep an accused in jail and questioned if the provision was "being misused" like the dowry law. A bench of Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan made the observation on Wednesday while granting bail to Arun Pati Tripathi, a former excise officer from Chhattisgarh. The top court expressed surprise at how the accused was kept in custody if a court order taking cognisance of the complaint was quashed by Chhattisgarh High Court. Also read: Delhi Polls: Rahul Gandhi targets Kejriwal and Sisodia over 'biggest liquor scam' "The concept of PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) cannot be that a person should remain in jail. If the tendency is to keep the person in jail, even after cognisance is quashed, what can be said? See what happened in 498A cases, PMLA also being misused like that?," the bench asked. Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code protects married women from cruelty by their husbands and their relatives. During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate (ED), opposed the grant of bail, saying crooks could not get away on technical grounds. Also read: Brad Pitt AI scam: Nigerian scammers accused of duping women posing as Hollywood actor Raju submitted cognisance was quashed for lack of sanction and that it was irrelevant for bail. Expressing dismay, the bench said, "It is shocking that the ED knows the cognisance was quashed, yet this was suppressed. We should summon the officers. The ED must come clean." "What kind of signals are we giving? Order taking cognisance is quashed and the person is in custody," the top court bench said. The apex court was hearing an appeal of Tripathi, an Indian Telecom Services officer, challenging a Chhattisgarh High Court order denying him bail in connection with the high-profile liquor scam in the state. Tripathi, who served on deputation as special secretary and managing director of the Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation Limited, was arrested after an ED investigation. Also read: 'You are under digital arrest': The cyber scam that shook India in 2024 The ED initiated the probe based on a predicate offence registered by the economic offences wing, Raipur, under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act. The federal agency alleged a criminal syndicate comprising senior government officials, private individuals, and political executives manipulated the state's excise policies to extort illegal earnings from the liquor trade. 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: SC raps ED over custody of liquor scam accused

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Harshil-Mukhwa area of Uttarkashi district on February 27 as part of his winter tour.
To prepare for his arrival, the state government and administration are working overtime to ensure everything is in place.
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<h2 dir="ltr">Uttarakhand CS convenes meeting</h2>
Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Radha Raturi convened a meeting with officials to review the arrangements for the visit, emphasising the timely and flawless execution of tasks.
She instructed all relevant departments to finalise the necessary preparations and confirm that all arrangements were thoroughly in place and error-free within the specified deadline.
CS Raturi said that this visit of the Prime Minister will provide an invaluable opportunity to promote winter tourism in the state. Hence, special attention should be paid to highlighting the possibilities and capabilities of winter tourism in the state in the programmes to be organised during this period.
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The Chief Secretary directed officials to complete all preparations on schedule, adhering to established protocols and security measures for the Prime Minister's upcoming visit to Harshil-Mukhwa.
<h2 dir="ltr">Preparation for Darshan Puja</h2>
The Chief Secretary directed that appropriate arrangements should be made for the proposed program of the public meeting in Harshil, including darshan-puja at Mukhwa temple by PM Modi, and effective arrangements should also be made for parking and transport system.
To showcase the beauty and richness of Uttarakhand, the Secretary of Tourism has been directed to organise two exhibitions in Harshil. The first exhibition will highlight the state's stunning winter tourist destinations, while the second will feature local products, providing a platform for artisans and makers to showcase their wares.
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<h2 dir="ltr">DM Meherban Singh Bisht presented preparation details&nbsp;</h2>
District Magistrate Uttarkashi Dr Meherban Singh Bisht said that all the necessary arrangements are being ensured in the district regarding the proposed program.
Preparations are underway for the Prime Minister's program in Harshil, with levelling work completed at the Horticulture Department premises. Additionally, the temple and village buildings in Mukhwa have been beautified, and a safe and convenient path has been constructed for temple access.
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The roads of the Harshil-Mukhwa area are being repaired. The construction of the road up to Bagori helipad in Harshil is in its final stage and other nearby helipads are also being made ready.
Presenting the details of all other arrangements related to the program, the District Magistrate said that all the preparations are in the final stage.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: PM Modi is set to visit the Harshil-Mukhwa area in Uttarkashi district on February 27, highlighting the strategic importance of this location during his winter tour.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Harshil-Mukhwa area of Uttarkashi district on February 27 as part of his winter tour. To prepare for his arrival, the state government and administration are working overtime to ensure everything is in place. Also read | Indian FM Nirmala Sitharaman introduces Income Tax Bill 2025 in Lok Sabha Uttarakhand CS convenes meeting Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Radha Raturi convened a meeting with officials to review the arrangements for the visit, emphasising the timely and flawless execution of tasks. She instructed all relevant departments to finalise the necessary preparations and confirm that all arrangements were thoroughly in place and error-free within the specified deadline. CS Raturi said that this visit of the Prime Minister will provide an invaluable opportunity to promote winter tourism in the state. Hence, special attention should be paid to highlighting the possibilities and capabilities of winter tourism in the state in the programmes to be organised during this period. Also read | India: Bengaluru teen dies by suicide after her mother asks her not to use mobile phone The Chief Secretary directed officials to complete all preparations on schedule, adhering to established protocols and security measures for the Prime Minister's upcoming visit to Harshil-Mukhwa. Preparation for Darshan Puja The Chief Secretary directed that appropriate arrangements should be made for the proposed program of the public meeting in Harshil, including darshan-puja at Mukhwa temple by PM Modi, and effective arrangements should also be made for parking and transport system. To showcase the beauty and richness of Uttarakhand, the Secretary of Tourism has been directed to organise two exhibitions in Harshil. The first exhibition will highlight the state's stunning winter tourist destinations, while the second will feature local products, providing a platform for artisans and makers to showcase their wares. Also read | Work from car | Bengaluru IT employee fined for using laptop while driving DM Meherban Singh Bisht presented preparation details District Magistrate Uttarkashi Dr Meherban Singh Bisht said that all the necessary arrangements are being ensured in the district regarding the proposed program. Preparations are underway for the Prime Minister's program in Harshil, with levelling work completed at the Horticulture Department premises. Additionally, the temple and village buildings in Mukhwa have been beautified, and a safe and convenient path has been constructed for temple access. Also read | Indian Army responds after Pakistan violates ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir: Report The roads of the Harshil-Mukhwa area are being repaired. The construction of the road up to Bagori helipad in Harshil is in its final stage and other nearby helipads are also being made ready. Presenting the details of all other arrangements related to the program, the District Magistrate said that all the preparations are in the final stage. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to visit Harshil-Mukhwa on Feb 27, Uttarakhand govt gears up for winter tour

The India-Russia Joint venture, from its manufacturing facility in Korwa, Amethi district, Uttar Pradesh has handed over 40,000 Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifles to India's defence ministry under a 2021 contract. The Indo-Russian joint venture, known as Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) was set up in 2019 to manufacture AK-203 assault rifles in India. The factory started producing AK-203 rifles in early 2023, and produces AK203 rifles that are intended to replace the aging INSAS rifles in the Indian armed forces.
The project aligns with India's "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiatives, aiming for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. A statement from Russia's main defence export agency Rosoboronexport, confirming the delivery of 40,000 AK rifles said, "the project is a shining example of a successful Make in India partnership.
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Both state and private Indian manufacturing enterprises, laboratories, etc. are involved in the work, pointing that the joint venture's order portfolio is expected to "expand" with applications being received from other security agencies, in addition to India's Defense ministry.&nbsp;
The current rifles that have been handed over to the Indian Defence Ministry have substantial made in India components, with plans to increase it to 100 localisations. The Aero India 2025 which is underway in the Southern Indian city of Bengaluru has guards with the IRRPL manufactured rifles.&nbsp;
The joint venture has been tasked with producing over 600,000 (6 lakh) AK-203 assault rifles for the Indian armed forces. The Rs 5,000 cr agreement was signed in 2021. The rifles are to be produced with a complete technology transfer from Russia, aiming for 100% localization in India. The project has been symbolic of close India, Russia defence partnership. Rosoboronexport has actively proposed the Su-57E for direct purchase or joint production in India.

The Indo-Russian joint venture, known as Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) was set up in 2019 to manufacture AK-203 assault rifles in India.

The India-Russia Joint venture, from its manufacturing facility in Korwa, Amethi district, Uttar Pradesh has handed over 40,000 Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifles to India's defence ministry under a 2021 contract. The Indo-Russian joint venture, known as Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) was set up in 2019 to manufacture AK-203 assault rifles in India. The factory started producing AK-203 rifles in early 2023, and produces AK203 rifles that are intended to replace the aging INSAS rifles in the Indian armed forces. The project aligns with India's "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiatives, aiming for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. A statement from Russia's main defence export agency Rosoboronexport, confirming the delivery of 40,000 AK rifles said, "the project is a shining example of a successful Make in India partnership. Also Read: In US, PM Modi to stay at 'world's most exclusive' hotel that once hosted Abraham Lincoln Both state and private Indian manufacturing enterprises, laboratories, etc. are involved in the work, pointing that the joint venture's order portfolio is expected to "expand" with applications being received from other security agencies, in addition to India's Defense ministry. The current rifles that have been handed over to the Indian Defence Ministry have substantial made in India components, with plans to increase it to 100 localisations. The Aero India 2025 which is underway in the Southern Indian city of Bengaluru has guards with the IRRPL manufactured rifles. The joint venture has been tasked with producing over 600,000 (6 lakh) AK-203 assault rifles for the Indian armed forces. The Rs 5,000 cr agreement was signed in 2021. The rifles are to be produced with a complete technology transfer from Russia, aiming for 100% localization in India. The project has been symbolic of close India, Russia defence partnership. Rosoboronexport has actively proposed the Su-57E for direct purchase or joint production in India.

India-Russia Joint venture hands 40,000 India-made AK203 to MoD

Zomato&rsquo;s Chief Executive Officer Deepinder Goyal has announced a new hiring initiative, inviting business and product leaders who actively use artificial intelligence (AI) in their work. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Goyal said he is looking to collaborate with individuals who have integrated AI as their &ldquo;second brain.&rdquo;
Interested applicants have been instructed to email him at <a href="mailto:d@zomato.com">d@zomato.com</a> with the phrase &ldquo;I have a second brain&rdquo; in the subject line.
Goyal said, &ldquo;I am looking to work with business and product leaders who have already started using AI as their second brain. If you are the one, please write to me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:d@zomato.com">d@zomato.com</a>."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m731oofh-fd7fa648-4t7c8446">
I am looking to work with business and product leaders who have already started using AI as their second brain. If you are the one, please write to me at d@zomato.com PLEASE include the phrase "I have a second brain" in the subject line.
&mdash; Deepinder Goyal (@deepigoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/deepigoyal/status/1886650206839828567?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
The job offer quickly gained attention on social media.
Some users supported the concept of AI-enhanced productivity, with an angel investor commenting that AI as a &ldquo;second brain&rdquo; can &ldquo;streamline decision-making and enhance creativity.&rdquo;
Goyal responded by confirming that his own productivity had significantly increased since adopting AI tools.
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Absolutely. My productivity is up multiple times since I embraced it.
&mdash; Deepinder Goyal (@deepigoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/deepigoyal/status/1886667018025541687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
However, some users questioned Zomato&rsquo;s hiring transparency, with one asking about a previous chief of staff job posting and why there had been no updates on it.
Another user enquired whether AI usage in daily activities such as health and sleep tracking, would qualify them for the role.&nbsp;
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What happened to the Chief of Staff thing, no reply on that
&mdash; Indianstockss.com (@indian_stockss) <a href="https://twitter.com/indian_stockss/status/1886670135488094586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
This is not the first time Goyal has used a non-traditional approach to recruitment.
In 2023, he posted a job listing for a chief of staff role, seeking candidates who were &ldquo;hungry&rdquo; but inexperienced, empathetic yet willing to make difficult decisions, and had &lsquo;zero entitlement.&rsquo;
The role required applicants to pay Rs 2 million upfront, that was to be donated entirely to Feeding India, Zomato&rsquo;s charitable initiative.
The position was unpaid for the first year, but offered a salary exceeding Rs 5 million in the following years.
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<h2 class="p2">AI&rsquo;s expanding role in leadership</h2>
Goyal&rsquo;s latest hiring approach reflects a broader trend in the business world, where AI is increasingly becoming a core component of decision-making.
Many organisations are looking for professionals who can integrate AI into their workflows to improve efficiency and innovation.
By specifically seeking leaders who embrace AI as a critical tool, Zomato is signalling its commitment to technological adaptation.
Whether this approach influences other companies remains to be seen, but it highlights the growing expectation that future business leaders will need to navigate AI-driven environments effectively.

In a post on X, Goyal said that he is looking to collaborate with individuals who have integrated AI as their “second brain.”

Zomato’s Chief Executive Officer Deepinder Goyal has announced a new hiring initiative, inviting business and product leaders who actively use artificial intelligence (AI) in their work. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Goyal said he is looking to collaborate with individuals who have integrated AI as their “second brain.” Interested applicants have been instructed to email him at d@zomato.com with the phrase “I have a second brain” in the subject line. Goyal said, “I am looking to work with business and product leaders who have already started using AI as their second brain. If you are the one, please write to me at d@zomato.com." I am looking to work with business and product leaders who have already started using AI as their second brain. If you are the one, please write to me at d@zomato.com PLEASE include the phrase "I have a second brain" in the subject line. — Deepinder Goyal (@deepigoyal) February 4, 2025 The job offer quickly gained attention on social media. Some users supported the concept of AI-enhanced productivity, with an angel investor commenting that AI as a “second brain” can “streamline decision-making and enhance creativity.” Goyal responded by confirming that his own productivity had significantly increased since adopting AI tools. Absolutely. My productivity is up multiple times since I embraced it. — Deepinder Goyal (@deepigoyal) February 4, 2025 However, some users questioned Zomato’s hiring transparency, with one asking about a previous chief of staff job posting and why there had been no updates on it. Another user enquired whether AI usage in daily activities such as health and sleep tracking, would qualify them for the role. What happened to the Chief of Staff thing, no reply on that — Indianstockss.com (@indian_stockss) February 4, 2025 This is not the first time Goyal has used a non-traditional approach to recruitment. In 2023, he posted a job listing for a chief of staff role, seeking candidates who were “hungry” but inexperienced, empathetic yet willing to make difficult decisions, and had ‘zero entitlement.’ The role required applicants to pay Rs 2 million upfront, that was to be donated entirely to Feeding India, Zomato’s charitable initiative. The position was unpaid for the first year, but offered a salary exceeding Rs 5 million in the following years. Also read: 'Rs 54 crore seized': SEBI bans finfluencer 'She-Wolf' from trading in Indian stock markets AI’s expanding role in leadership Goyal’s latest hiring approach reflects a broader trend in the business world, where AI is increasingly becoming a core component of decision-making. Many organisations are looking for professionals who can integrate AI into their workflows to improve efficiency and innovation. By specifically seeking leaders who embrace AI as a critical tool, Zomato is signalling its commitment to technological adaptation. Whether this approach influences other companies remains to be seen, but it highlights the growing expectation that future business leaders will need to navigate AI-driven environments effectively.

‘AI as their second brain’: Zomato’s Deepinder Goyal sets bold new hiring criteria

<div>A teenage girl in the Indian state of Bengaluru died by suicide on Wednesday (Feb 12) after her mother told her not to use her mobile phone. The girl named Avantika Chourasia was a student in the 10th standard. She jumped off the 20th floor of her residential building.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Police said the family of the girl hailed from Madhya Pradesh. Her father is an engineer and her mother is a homemaker.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-kunduz-suicide-bombing-islamic-state-khorasan-claims-responsibility-says-taliban-workers-were-target-8715825">Afghanistan Kunduz Suicide Bombing: Islamic State Khorasan claims responsibility, Taliban workers were target</a></div>
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<div>Avantika was a student at a private school and had failed to score good grades on a test. Her exams were scheduled for February 15, so her mother asked her to focus on her studies and not spend time on her mobile phone. Police said that her mother's constant objection enraged her and she jumped off the 20th floor of the building.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-suchir-balaji-murdered-new-photos-from-crime-scene-raises-questions-on-suicide-claims-8656454">Was Suchir Balaji murdered? New photos from crime scene raise questions on suicide claims</a></div>
<div>Official statements of the parents are yet to be recorded and more information is expected soon.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/aubrey-plaza-deletes-instagram-account-weeks-after-husband-jeff-baena-dies-by-suicide-8620186">Aubrey Plaza deletes Instagram account weeks after husband Jeff Baena dies by suicide</a></div>
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<div>An Unnatural Death Report (UDR) has been filed by the Bengaluru police.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/aubrey-plaza-breaks-silence-after-husband-jeff-baena-dies-by-suicide-unimaginable-tragedy-8601317">Aubrey Plaza breaks silence after husband Jeff Baena dies by suicide: Unimaginable tragedy</a></div>
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<div>In another such case, a postgraduate student of Bengaluru University was found dead in her hostel room at the Jnana Bharathi campus on February 4. She was a 24-year-old girl who was studying in the third semester while pursuing an MA in Kannada.</div>
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<div>Meanwhile, on February 6, a 19-year-old nursing student from Kerala allegedly died by suicide inside her hostel room in Ramanagara. The girl named Anamika Vineeth was a first-year BSc nursing student. Her parents blamed the college management for her death, saying they put too much pressure.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/family-in-laws-of-delhi-cafe-owner-who-died-by-suicide-to-be-questioned-by-police-8588214">Family, in-laws of Delhi cafe owner who died by suicide, to be questioned by police</a></div>
<div>
(With inputs from agencies)
<a href="https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/11181469" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Get help &amp; support for suicide</a>
If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. You can contact local authorities and also encourage the person to contact a suicide prevention hotline. WION does not make any recommendations.
</div>

India News | A tragic incident occurred in Bengaluru as a tenth-grade student, Avantika Chourasia, ended her life by jumping from her residential building's 20th floor.

A teenage girl in the Indian state of Bengaluru died by suicide on Wednesday (Feb 12) after her mother told her not to use her mobile phone. The girl named Avantika Chourasia was a student in the 10th standard. She jumped off the 20th floor of her residential building. Police said the family of the girl hailed from Madhya Pradesh. Her father is an engineer and her mother is a homemaker. Also read: Afghanistan Kunduz Suicide Bombing: Islamic State Khorasan claims responsibility, Taliban workers were target Avantika was a student at a private school and had failed to score good grades on a test. Her exams were scheduled for February 15, so her mother asked her to focus on her studies and not spend time on her mobile phone. Police said that her mother's constant objection enraged her and she jumped off the 20th floor of the building. Also read: Was Suchir Balaji murdered? New photos from crime scene raise questions on suicide claims Official statements of the parents are yet to be recorded and more information is expected soon. Also read: Aubrey Plaza deletes Instagram account weeks after husband Jeff Baena dies by suicide An Unnatural Death Report (UDR) has been filed by the Bengaluru police. Also read: Aubrey Plaza breaks silence after husband Jeff Baena dies by suicide: Unimaginable tragedy In another such case, a postgraduate student of Bengaluru University was found dead in her hostel room at the Jnana Bharathi campus on February 4. She was a 24-year-old girl who was studying in the third semester while pursuing an MA in Kannada. Meanwhile, on February 6, a 19-year-old nursing student from Kerala allegedly died by suicide inside her hostel room in Ramanagara. The girl named Anamika Vineeth was a first-year BSc nursing student. Her parents blamed the college management for her death, saying they put too much pressure. Also read: Family, in-laws of Delhi cafe owner who died by suicide, to be questioned by police (With inputs from agencies) Get help & support for suicide If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. You can contact local authorities and also encourage the person to contact a suicide prevention hotline. WION does not make any recommendations.

India: Bengaluru teen dies by suicide after mother asked her not to use mobile phone

A mob attacked the Udayagiri police station in the south Indian city of Mysore last night, injuring seven policemen, following a derogatory post on social media by a man, officials said.&nbsp;
According to Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Hitendra, the accused was arrested for the derogatory post. However, some people were &ldquo;upset that he might be left soon,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
The crowd turned violent and attempted to storm the station, damaging vehicles and injuring policemen, officials said.&nbsp;
A team has been formed by the local police to arrest the culprits responsible for creating the uproar. &ldquo;At present, the situation is calm,&rdquo; ADGP Hitendra said.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Congress MLA from Narasimharaja Tanveer Sait said that the commotion erupted following the social media post. The crowd pelted stones, vandalised vehicles, and attacked the station. He added that the police had to resort to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd.
&ldquo;Commotion erupted after a Facebook post. I passed instructions to lodge a police complaint. Since it was a cybercrime, they wanted to verify the authenticity of the post and later take action. During this period between lodging a complaint and taking action, there was a delay of 5 to 6 hours and a commotion outbursted. Roads were blocked. The police tried to pacify the situation and&hellip;the person who made the post was also identified but the protesters did not calm down. Hence, the police resorted to lathi-charge. There was also stone pelting, the police station was attacked and police and public vehicles were vandalised&hellip; police force was deployed. The situation is now normal.&rdquo; Sait said.&nbsp;

India News | Authorities responded with a lathi charge to control the violent crowd that vandalised vehicles and attempted to storm the police station, causing chaos in the area.

A mob attacked the Udayagiri police station in the south Indian city of Mysore last night, injuring seven policemen, following a derogatory post on social media by a man, officials said. According to Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Hitendra, the accused was arrested for the derogatory post. However, some people were “upset that he might be left soon,” he added. The crowd turned violent and attempted to storm the station, damaging vehicles and injuring policemen, officials said. A team has been formed by the local police to arrest the culprits responsible for creating the uproar. “At present, the situation is calm,” ADGP Hitendra said. Meanwhile, Congress MLA from Narasimharaja Tanveer Sait said that the commotion erupted following the social media post. The crowd pelted stones, vandalised vehicles, and attacked the station. He added that the police had to resort to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd. “Commotion erupted after a Facebook post. I passed instructions to lodge a police complaint. Since it was a cybercrime, they wanted to verify the authenticity of the post and later take action. During this period between lodging a complaint and taking action, there was a delay of 5 to 6 hours and a commotion outbursted. Roads were blocked. The police tried to pacify the situation and…the person who made the post was also identified but the protesters did not calm down. Hence, the police resorted to lathi-charge. There was also stone pelting, the police station was attacked and police and public vehicles were vandalised… police force was deployed. The situation is now normal.” Sait said.

Mob attacks police station over social media post in India's Mysore

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological font of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), unveiled its grand Delhi headquarter days after the assembly election results on Thursday (Feb 13) brought it back to power in the national capital. The office is based in New Delhi's Keshav Kunj area and cost ₹1500 million (over $17 million) - an amount gathered entirely through public contributions. The building is said to be a state-of-the art, eco-friendly facility.
Spanning 500,000 square feet across a 4-acre plot, it has three towering buildings, residential quarters and a library with 8,500 books.
It also has a five-bed hospital apart from other facilities.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-consecration-marks-indias-true-independence-rss-chief-mohan-bhagwat-8619508">Ram Temple consecration marked India's 'true independence': RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat</a>
Let's have a look at the complex featuring three towers with modern amenities:&nbsp;
Sadhna Tower (Tower 1) The tower works as Prant Karyalaya (Regional office), which has administrative offices. The 10th floor of the tower has a library with 8,500 books and open for general public.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kejriwal-writes-to-rss-questions-whether-it-supports-bjps-action-8582744">Arvind Kejriwal writes to RSS, questions whether it supports BJP's actions and past wrongdoings</a>
Prerna Tower (Tower 2) The Tower 2 is said to be designed for Pravasi Karyakartas (migrant workers) and provides accommodation and workspace. The 9th floor of the tower is entirely dedicated to journalists. The chief of RSS Mohan Bhagwat will stay in the building whenever he visits Delhi.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rss-backs-caste-census-but-warns-against-its-use-for-political-advantage-755306">RSS backs caste census but warns against its use for &lsquo;political advantage&rsquo;</a>
Archana Tower (Tower 3) This tower is allocated to supportive staff and members who visit from other cities of India. It has around 80 rooms. On the ground floor, it has a clinic and a five-bed hospital for residents and visitors. It also has a bhojnalaya (restaurant) with a capacity of 80 people at a time.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-mla-vijender-gupta-urges-lg-to-cancel-merger-of-properties-linked-to-kejriwals-sheesh-mahal-8710139">BJP urges LG to cancel merger of properties linked to Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal'</a>
The fund for the construction of the building came from around 75,000 people with the smallest donation received of ₹5.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m72y22d6-3ha0fu8k-uh52qlc7">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | The new headquarters of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), 'Keshav Kunj,' has been completed in Delhi. The RSS has shifted its office back to its old address in the city. The reconstruction project spans 3.75 acres and consists of three 12-story buildings,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/vOkojE4FGE">pic.twitter.com/vOkojE4FGE</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1889700087758266586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Green building&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-aaps-delhi-model-subsidies-continue-under-bjp-8703859">Will AAP's 'Delhi Model' subsidies continue under BJP?</a>
It's a green building with all the eco-friendly practices.
The primary source of energy in the building is solar power.
Sewage treatment will be managed within the building.
There are 1,000 granite chaukhats (a frame on the floor of a door) and has avoided the traditional wood to save environment.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India News | Trending | The office is based in New Delhi's Keshav Kunj area and cost ₹1500 million (over $17 million) - an amount gathered entirely through public contribution.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological font of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), unveiled its grand Delhi headquarter days after the assembly election results on Thursday (Feb 13) brought it back to power in the national capital. The office is based in New Delhi's Keshav Kunj area and cost ₹1500 million (over $17 million) - an amount gathered entirely through public contributions. The building is said to be a state-of-the art, eco-friendly facility. Spanning 500,000 square feet across a 4-acre plot, it has three towering buildings, residential quarters and a library with 8,500 books. It also has a five-bed hospital apart from other facilities. Also read: Ram Temple consecration marked India's 'true independence': RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Let's have a look at the complex featuring three towers with modern amenities: Sadhna Tower (Tower 1) The tower works as Prant Karyalaya (Regional office), which has administrative offices. The 10th floor of the tower has a library with 8,500 books and open for general public. Also read: Arvind Kejriwal writes to RSS, questions whether it supports BJP's actions and past wrongdoings Prerna Tower (Tower 2) The Tower 2 is said to be designed for Pravasi Karyakartas (migrant workers) and provides accommodation and workspace. The 9th floor of the tower is entirely dedicated to journalists. The chief of RSS Mohan Bhagwat will stay in the building whenever he visits Delhi. Also read: RSS backs caste census but warns against its use for ‘political advantage’ Archana Tower (Tower 3) This tower is allocated to supportive staff and members who visit from other cities of India. It has around 80 rooms. On the ground floor, it has a clinic and a five-bed hospital for residents and visitors. It also has a bhojnalaya (restaurant) with a capacity of 80 people at a time. Also read: BJP urges LG to cancel merger of properties linked to Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal' The fund for the construction of the building came from around 75,000 people with the smallest donation received of ₹5. #WATCH | Delhi | The new headquarters of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), 'Keshav Kunj,' has been completed in Delhi. The RSS has shifted its office back to its old address in the city. The reconstruction project spans 3.75 acres and consists of three 12-story buildings,… pic.twitter.com/vOkojE4FGE — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2025 Green building Also read: Will AAP's 'Delhi Model' subsidies continue under BJP? It's a green building with all the eco-friendly practices. The primary source of energy in the building is solar power. Sewage treatment will be managed within the building. There are 1,000 granite chaukhats (a frame on the floor of a door) and has avoided the traditional wood to save environment. (With inputs from agencies)

Three towers with hospital, library, residential quarters: RSS opens 'green' Delhi headquarters worth over $17mn

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 12) reached the United States for a vital meeting with newly inaugurated US President Donald Trump. During the trip, the Indian PM will be staying at the Blair House, a historic guest lodging reserved for international dignitaries visiting the POTUS and the White House.&nbsp;
Here's all you need to know about Blair House, where PM Modi will stay during his US visit.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-madhubani-of-bihar-to-crafts-of-rajasthan-indian-pm-narendra-modis-timeless-gifts-for-emmanuel-macron-and-jd-vance-8715971">From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids</a>
<h2>'World's most exclusive hotel'</h2>
Blair House is often called the "world's most exclusive hotel," due to its exhaustive guest list that features American presidents like Andrew Jackson and Abraham Lincoln, world leaders and even royalty.
Located at 1651 Pennsylvania Avenue, directly across the street from the White House, the historic guest house was built in 1824.&nbsp;
It is a luxurious property spanning 70,000 square feet and has 119 rooms, including 14 guest bedrooms, 35 bathrooms, three formal dining rooms, and a fully equipped beauty salon.
Blair House is not just one house, it is actually four interconnected townhouses.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-lands-in-us-for-a-2-day-visit-meets-us-intelligence-chief-tulsi-gabbard-8715830">PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard</a>
Furnished with decor, antique furniture, fine art, and countless historical artefacts that reflect American history and craftsmanship, the Blair House offers its guests a five-star experience.
<h2>Blair House and PM Modi</h2>
Ahead of PM Modi's visit to the US, the iconic Blair House was decked up with the Indian flag, reported ANI news agency.&nbsp;
Modi is in the US for the first time after Trump assumed office for his second term as the POTUS. This term will give the two global leaders an opportunity to rekindle their 'bromance' during Trump's first term of 2016-2020.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-developing-its-own-ai-language-model-inspired-by-nations-diversity-pm-narendra-modi-at-ai-action-summit-in-paris-8713252">India developing its own AI Language Model inspired by nation's diversity: PM Modi at AI Action Summit in Paris</a>
Modi in his departure statement fondly recalled his equation with Trump and said: "Although this will be our first meeting following his historic electoral victory and inauguration in January, I have a very warm recollection of working together in his first term in building a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the US."
He added that this "visit will be an opportunity to build upon the successes of our collaboration in his first term and develop an agenda to further elevate and deepen our partnership, including in the areas of technology, trade, defence, energy, and supply chain resilience."
"We will work together for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries and shape a better future for the world."
(With inputs from agencies)

World - Trending - India News | Explore the rich history of Blair House, a 70,000 sq ft guest lodge that has hosted dignitaries like Abraham Lincoln and now welcomes Indian PM Narendra Modi.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 12) reached the United States for a vital meeting with newly inaugurated US President Donald Trump. During the trip, the Indian PM will be staying at the Blair House, a historic guest lodging reserved for international dignitaries visiting the POTUS and the White House. Here's all you need to know about Blair House, where PM Modi will stay during his US visit. Also read | From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids 'World's most exclusive hotel' Blair House is often called the "world's most exclusive hotel," due to its exhaustive guest list that features American presidents like Andrew Jackson and Abraham Lincoln, world leaders and even royalty. Located at 1651 Pennsylvania Avenue, directly across the street from the White House, the historic guest house was built in 1824. It is a luxurious property spanning 70,000 square feet and has 119 rooms, including 14 guest bedrooms, 35 bathrooms, three formal dining rooms, and a fully equipped beauty salon. Blair House is not just one house, it is actually four interconnected townhouses. Also read | PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard Furnished with decor, antique furniture, fine art, and countless historical artefacts that reflect American history and craftsmanship, the Blair House offers its guests a five-star experience. Blair House and PM Modi Ahead of PM Modi's visit to the US, the iconic Blair House was decked up with the Indian flag, reported ANI news agency. Modi is in the US for the first time after Trump assumed office for his second term as the POTUS. This term will give the two global leaders an opportunity to rekindle their 'bromance' during Trump's first term of 2016-2020. Also read | India developing its own AI Language Model inspired by nation's diversity: PM Modi at AI Action Summit in Paris Modi in his departure statement fondly recalled his equation with Trump and said: "Although this will be our first meeting following his historic electoral victory and inauguration in January, I have a very warm recollection of working together in his first term in building a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the US." He added that this "visit will be an opportunity to build upon the successes of our collaboration in his first term and develop an agenda to further elevate and deepen our partnership, including in the areas of technology, trade, defence, energy, and supply chain resilience." "We will work together for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries and shape a better future for the world." (With inputs from agencies)

In US, PM Modi to stay at 'world's most exclusive' hotel that once hosted Abraham Lincoln

A woman's attempt to balance work and driving has landed her in trouble with authorities. A viral video shows her navigating busy Airport Road while simultaneously working on her laptop, sparking concerns about road safety and responsible remote work practices.
The Bengaluru North Division Traffic Police on Wednesday (Feb 12) tracked down the IT employee and booked her for dangerous driving and fined her Rs1,000.
The incident occurred on Monday when pedestrians witnessed the alarming sight of a woman driving on a congested road while working on her laptop. They captured a video of the incident, noting the car's registration number, and reported it to the traffic police via social media, requesting they take action.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-responds-after-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-jammu-and-kashmir-8716270">Indian Army responds after Pakistan violates ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir: Report</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">&ldquo;Work from home, not from car&rdquo;&nbsp;</h2>
"Since her residence address was registered in our jurisdiction, we issued her a notice, directing her to appear before us. On Wednesday, she dropped into our station, and we showed her the video, which went viral on X. Also, we told her how dangerous it was for her and other commuters on the road," an investigating officer said.
The woman said she turned on her laptop while driving because she needed to log in and didn't want to miss her scheduled login time. She claimed she was on her way home from her job at a private firm in BTM Layout to RT Nagar, and with traffic, she wouldn't have made it home in time.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/very-disturbing-bjp-claims-congress-leaders-wife-has-links-with-pakistans-isi-8715993">'Very disturbing': BJP claims Congress leader's wife has links with Pakistan's ISI</a>
Deputy Commissioner of Police (north traffic) Sirigowri DR posted on X, "Work from home, not from the car while driving."
<h2 dir="ltr">Public reacts</h2>
The incident ignited a heated discussion on social media, with many users condemning the woman's reckless behaviour. However, some commentators shifted the focus to the employer, questioning whether they should be held accountable for pressuring the woman to work while driving, and asking if they would face any consequences.
One of the users wrote, "Effect of 70hrs &amp; 90hrs working/week model. I feel at least working women (married) should be given the option of WFH. Here she must have been thinking of saving some time by doing so, to do house chores with a free mind and spend time with family members. But a big "NO" for work while driving".
Another person, said: "Why not arrest the person who made her work through the car?"
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: A woman's multitasking on Airport Road, caught on video, raises alarms about road safety as she juggles driving and laptop work, drawing attention from authorities.

A woman's attempt to balance work and driving has landed her in trouble with authorities. A viral video shows her navigating busy Airport Road while simultaneously working on her laptop, sparking concerns about road safety and responsible remote work practices. The Bengaluru North Division Traffic Police on Wednesday (Feb 12) tracked down the IT employee and booked her for dangerous driving and fined her Rs1,000. The incident occurred on Monday when pedestrians witnessed the alarming sight of a woman driving on a congested road while working on her laptop. They captured a video of the incident, noting the car's registration number, and reported it to the traffic police via social media, requesting they take action. Also read | Indian Army responds after Pakistan violates ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir: Report “Work from home, not from car” "Since her residence address was registered in our jurisdiction, we issued her a notice, directing her to appear before us. On Wednesday, she dropped into our station, and we showed her the video, which went viral on X. Also, we told her how dangerous it was for her and other commuters on the road," an investigating officer said. The woman said she turned on her laptop while driving because she needed to log in and didn't want to miss her scheduled login time. She claimed she was on her way home from her job at a private firm in BTM Layout to RT Nagar, and with traffic, she wouldn't have made it home in time. Also read | 'Very disturbing': BJP claims Congress leader's wife has links with Pakistan's ISI Deputy Commissioner of Police (north traffic) Sirigowri DR posted on X, "Work from home, not from the car while driving." Public reacts The incident ignited a heated discussion on social media, with many users condemning the woman's reckless behaviour. However, some commentators shifted the focus to the employer, questioning whether they should be held accountable for pressuring the woman to work while driving, and asking if they would face any consequences. One of the users wrote, "Effect of 70hrs & 90hrs working/week model. I feel at least working women (married) should be given the option of WFH. Here she must have been thinking of saving some time by doing so, to do house chores with a free mind and spend time with family members. But a big "NO" for work while driving". Another person, said: "Why not arrest the person who made her work through the car?" (With inputs from agencies)

Work from car | Bengaluru IT employee fined for using laptop while driving

The Indian Army on Thursday dismissed reports of a ceasefire violation along the Line of Control (LoC), stating that the truce remains intact and is being upheld according to the understanding between the Indian and Pakistani armies.
In a statement on Thursday, the Indian Army said that the ceasefire on the LoC is intact. The Army also acknowledged recent incidents, including stray cross-LoC firing and a suspected IED blast near one of its posts along the LoC, adding that these incidents were being addressed through the established communication mechanism.
"The ceasefire on the Line of Control is intact and continues to be observed as per the understanding between both the armies (of India and Pakistan). Tension due to some stray incidents of cross-LoC firing and a suspected IED blast on one of our PTLs on the LoC is being dealt with through the established mechanism. No exchange of fire of heavy-calibre weapons has taken place," the statement further read.
Earlier, Indian security officials said that the Army gave a befitting response after Pakistani troops on Wednesday (Feb 12) violated the ceasefire. The enemy troops resorted to unprovoked firing on Indian posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, India-based news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;
As per the report, the officials said that the enemy forces suffered "heavy casualties", however, the extent of damage on the Pakistan side was not known.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/very-disturbing-bjp-claims-congress-leaders-wife-has-links-with-pakistans-isi-8715993">'Very disturbing': BJP claims Congress leader's wife has links with Pakistan's ISI</a>&nbsp;
India and Pakistan renewed the ceasefire agreement on February 25, 2021, and ever since, ceasefire violations along the LoC have been very rare.&nbsp;
<h2>IED blast in J&amp;K's Akhnoor&nbsp;</h2>
The report of ceasefire violation came a day after two Indian Army personnel were killed in an IED explosion near the LoC in the Akhnoor sector.&nbsp;
The incident reportedly happened when the Army personnel were on patrolling duty along the LoC.
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They were hit by a powerful explosion around 3:50 pm (local time).
Media reports mentioned that the IED appeared to have been planted by militants from across the border.&nbsp;
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"Suspected Improvised Explosive Device blast reported in #Laleali in #Akhnoor Sector during a fence patrol resulting in two fatalities. Own troops are dominating the area and search #operations are underway," the Army's White Knight Corps said in an X post.&nbsp;
"White Knight Corps salutes and pays tribute to the supreme sacrifice of two gallant soldiers," the post added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/very-disturbing-bjp-claims-congress-leaders-wife-has-links-with-pakistans-isi-8715993">Mumbai reports first Guillain-Barr&eacute; Syndrome death as cases rise in Pune&nbsp;</a>
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India News | The incident follows an IED blast in J&K's Akhnoor sector, resulting in the deaths of two Indian Army personnel, suspected to be planted by militants.

The Indian Army on Thursday dismissed reports of a ceasefire violation along the Line of Control (LoC), stating that the truce remains intact and is being upheld according to the understanding between the Indian and Pakistani armies. In a statement on Thursday, the Indian Army said that the ceasefire on the LoC is intact. The Army also acknowledged recent incidents, including stray cross-LoC firing and a suspected IED blast near one of its posts along the LoC, adding that these incidents were being addressed through the established communication mechanism. "The ceasefire on the Line of Control is intact and continues to be observed as per the understanding between both the armies (of India and Pakistan). Tension due to some stray incidents of cross-LoC firing and a suspected IED blast on one of our PTLs on the LoC is being dealt with through the established mechanism. No exchange of fire of heavy-calibre weapons has taken place," the statement further read. Earlier, Indian security officials said that the Army gave a befitting response after Pakistani troops on Wednesday (Feb 12) violated the ceasefire. The enemy troops resorted to unprovoked firing on Indian posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, India-based news agency PTI reported. As per the report, the officials said that the enemy forces suffered "heavy casualties", however, the extent of damage on the Pakistan side was not known. Also read: 'Very disturbing': BJP claims Congress leader's wife has links with Pakistan's ISI India and Pakistan renewed the ceasefire agreement on February 25, 2021, and ever since, ceasefire violations along the LoC have been very rare. IED blast in J&K's Akhnoor The report of ceasefire violation came a day after two Indian Army personnel were killed in an IED explosion near the LoC in the Akhnoor sector. The incident reportedly happened when the Army personnel were on patrolling duty along the LoC. Also read: From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids They were hit by a powerful explosion around 3:50 pm (local time). Media reports mentioned that the IED appeared to have been planted by militants from across the border. Also read: PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard "Suspected Improvised Explosive Device blast reported in #Laleali in #Akhnoor Sector during a fence patrol resulting in two fatalities. Own troops are dominating the area and search #operations are underway," the Army's White Knight Corps said in an X post. "White Knight Corps salutes and pays tribute to the supreme sacrifice of two gallant soldiers," the post added. Also read: Mumbai reports first Guillain-Barré Syndrome death as cases rise in Pune (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Army refutes ceasefire violation reports, says LoC situation stable

Indian National Congress (INC) responded to allegations made by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's wife has links with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).&nbsp;
On Wednesday, BJP Spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia alleged that Gogoi's wife Elizabeth Colebourn had ties with the ISI while she worked with the Climate and Knowledge Development Network (CDKN) in Islamabad. She had worked under Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, who is a former advisor to the Planning Commission of Pakistan.&nbsp;
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On X, Bhatia posted, "Very disturbing and serious facts have come to light that the Deputy Leader of Opposition, Gaurav Gogoi and his wife have links with Pakistan and the ISI."&nbsp;
"I am saying this with some responsibility that Gaurav Gogoi's wife Elizabeth Colburn (sic), has links with Tauqir Sheikh (sic), who happens to be the advisor in the Pakistan Planning Commission," he added.&nbsp;
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"This is a serious issue which poses a threat to the national security of the country therefore we wish to ask Mr. Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge that Gaurav Gogoi needs to come out and give clear details of Elizabeth's association with ISI and Pakistan...Why is Elizabeth Colburn working with Pakistani ISI agents," he asked.&nbsp;
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Gogoi on Wednesday said that if his wife is accused of being an ISI agent, he could be labelled as an agent of the Research and Analysis Wing (R&amp;AW), which is the foreign intelligence agency of India.&nbsp;
<h2>'If my wife is an ISI agent...'</h2>
As quoted by the news agency ANI, Gogoi said, "If my wife is an ISI agent of Pakistan, then I am a R&amp;AW agent of India. I don't mind if a family against whom there are various cases and several allegations makes accusations against me."&nbsp;
Himanta Biswa Sarma, who is the chief minister of India's northeastern state of Assam, also made a similar allegation but didn't take any names.&nbsp;
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Sarma said on X, "Serious questions need to be answered regarding allegations of ISI links, leading young individuals to the Pakistan Embassy for brainwashing and radicalisation, and the refusal to take Indian citizenship for the past 12 years."&nbsp;
Gogoi said, "The Assam Chief Minister is making these allegations only to divert attention from the allegations against him."&nbsp;
"It is something laughable, the BJP has nothing to do. Someone's land-grabbing cases are unearthed one after another, defamation cases are being filed one after another. These are baseless allegations without any substance. This shows their weakness and the fact that they are fast losing ground," he said.&nbsp;
"Those who make such allegations must see their family is facing cases of land grabbing and engaged in the debate of setting up a resort. The Assam chief minister is tense that the new BJP president Dilip Saikia will become chief minister in another two or three months. The BJP leadership in New Delhi knows about the land cases of the Sarma family and he is worried about getting replaced. This is a ploy to save himself," he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India News | Gaurav Gogoi refutes claims, humorously comparing himself to an Indian intelligence agent, while BJP insists on addressing potential security threats.

Indian National Congress (INC) responded to allegations made by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's wife has links with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). On Wednesday, BJP Spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia alleged that Gogoi's wife Elizabeth Colebourn had ties with the ISI while she worked with the Climate and Knowledge Development Network (CDKN) in Islamabad. She had worked under Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, who is a former advisor to the Planning Commission of Pakistan. Also read: From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids On X, Bhatia posted, "Very disturbing and serious facts have come to light that the Deputy Leader of Opposition, Gaurav Gogoi and his wife have links with Pakistan and the ISI." "I am saying this with some responsibility that Gaurav Gogoi's wife Elizabeth Colburn (sic), has links with Tauqir Sheikh (sic), who happens to be the advisor in the Pakistan Planning Commission," he added. Also read: PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard "This is a serious issue which poses a threat to the national security of the country therefore we wish to ask Mr. Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge that Gaurav Gogoi needs to come out and give clear details of Elizabeth's association with ISI and Pakistan...Why is Elizabeth Colburn working with Pakistani ISI agents," he asked. Also read: Mumbai reports first Guillain-Barré Syndrome death as cases rise in Pune Gogoi on Wednesday said that if his wife is accused of being an ISI agent, he could be labelled as an agent of the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), which is the foreign intelligence agency of India. 'If my wife is an ISI agent...' As quoted by the news agency ANI, Gogoi said, "If my wife is an ISI agent of Pakistan, then I am a R&AW agent of India. I don't mind if a family against whom there are various cases and several allegations makes accusations against me." Himanta Biswa Sarma, who is the chief minister of India's northeastern state of Assam, also made a similar allegation but didn't take any names. Also read: Supreme court criticises freebies, says people not willing to work Sarma said on X, "Serious questions need to be answered regarding allegations of ISI links, leading young individuals to the Pakistan Embassy for brainwashing and radicalisation, and the refusal to take Indian citizenship for the past 12 years." Gogoi said, "The Assam Chief Minister is making these allegations only to divert attention from the allegations against him." "It is something laughable, the BJP has nothing to do. Someone's land-grabbing cases are unearthed one after another, defamation cases are being filed one after another. These are baseless allegations without any substance. This shows their weakness and the fact that they are fast losing ground," he said. "Those who make such allegations must see their family is facing cases of land grabbing and engaged in the debate of setting up a resort. The Assam chief minister is tense that the new BJP president Dilip Saikia will become chief minister in another two or three months. The BJP leadership in New Delhi knows about the land cases of the Sarma family and he is worried about getting replaced. This is a ploy to save himself," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'If my wife is Pakistani ISI agent, then I'm India's RAW agent': Gaurav Gogoi hits back at Assam CM

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who landed in France for a two-day visit on Monday (Feb 10), arrived with some amazing gifts for French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife and the First Lady of France. PM Modi even presented gifts to the kids of US Vice President JD Vance who was also in France at the same time as the Indian PM.&nbsp;
The Indian PM held talks with Macron during the visit on the "entire gamut of the exceptionally strong and multifaceted bilateral cooperation and on global and regional matters".&nbsp;
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<h2>Dokra artwork for French PM&nbsp;</h2>
PM Modi gifted a Dokra artwork to the French President. The art piece was studded with stonework and depicted musicians. An exquisite silver hand-graved table mirror was gifted to First Lady Brigitte Macron. The mirror had floral and peacock motifs.&nbsp;
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Dokra is an art form practised mostly in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. It is a traditional metal craft showcasing intricate craftsmanship using the ancient lost wax technique.&nbsp;
The mirror gifted to the First Lady traces its origin to the rich traditions of the Indian state of Rajasthan and symbolises masterful craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
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<h2>'Timeless' classics for Vance's kids&nbsp;</h2>
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PM Modi further brought gifs for Vance's two sons and a daughter. He gave a wooden railway toy set to JD Vance's sons Vivek Vance (4) and Ewan Blaine Vance (7) and a jigsaw puzzle based on Indian folk paintings for his daughter Mirabel Rose Vance (2).&nbsp;
The railway toy was a &ldquo;timeless classic&rdquo; which combines nostalgia with sustainability. &ldquo;Crafted from natural wood and painted with eco-friendly vegetable dyes, it ensures child safety and environmental consciousness,&rdquo; officials were quoted by PTI.&nbsp;
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The puzzle gifted by PM Modi highlighted India's rich artistic heritage and features various folk painting styles. It had Kalighat pat painting from the Indian state of West Bengal and Santhal painting created by the Santhal tribe and a Madhubani painting from the Indian state of Bihar.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Trending | World | The Indian PM held talks with Macron during the visit on the "entire gamut of the exceptionally strong and multifaceted bilateral cooperation and on global and regional matters".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who landed in France for a two-day visit on Monday (Feb 10), arrived with some amazing gifts for French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife and the First Lady of France. PM Modi even presented gifts to the kids of US Vice President JD Vance who was also in France at the same time as the Indian PM. The Indian PM held talks with Macron during the visit on the "entire gamut of the exceptionally strong and multifaceted bilateral cooperation and on global and regional matters". Also read: Macron escorts Modi to airport: How Indo-French ties got a boost from Indian PM’s visit Dokra artwork for French PM PM Modi gifted a Dokra artwork to the French President. The art piece was studded with stonework and depicted musicians. An exquisite silver hand-graved table mirror was gifted to First Lady Brigitte Macron. The mirror had floral and peacock motifs. Also read: India-France relations 'touched new heights', PM Modi, Macron travel to Marseille in presidential aircraft Dokra is an art form practised mostly in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. It is a traditional metal craft showcasing intricate craftsmanship using the ancient lost wax technique. The mirror gifted to the First Lady traces its origin to the rich traditions of the Indian state of Rajasthan and symbolises masterful craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Also read: PM Modi’s US visit: Indian premier to meet ‘dear friend’ Trump amid tariff threats, mass deportations 'Timeless' classics for Vance's kids Also read: PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard PM Modi further brought gifs for Vance's two sons and a daughter. He gave a wooden railway toy set to JD Vance's sons Vivek Vance (4) and Ewan Blaine Vance (7) and a jigsaw puzzle based on Indian folk paintings for his daughter Mirabel Rose Vance (2). The railway toy was a “timeless classic” which combines nostalgia with sustainability. “Crafted from natural wood and painted with eco-friendly vegetable dyes, it ensures child safety and environmental consciousness,” officials were quoted by PTI. Also read: Opposition's rejection, Modi's applause: Union Budget 2025 evokes mixed reactions The puzzle gifted by PM Modi highlighted India's rich artistic heritage and features various folk painting styles. It had Kalighat pat painting from the Indian state of West Bengal and Santhal painting created by the Santhal tribe and a Madhubani painting from the Indian state of Bihar. (With inputs from agencies)

From Madhubani to Rajasthani crafts: Narendra Modi's 'timeless' gifts for Macron and Vance's kids

Wreaths were laid at the Air Force Station for the two Indian army soldiers who were killed in an IED blast near the Line of Control (LOC). Watch this report for more details!

Indian army holds wreath laying ceremony at Air Force Station in Jammu

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on his way to Washington for a crucial meeting with US President Donald Trump. This will be their first official encounter since Trump began his second term in office.
Modi&rsquo;s two-day visit comes at a tense moment, following Trump&rsquo;s recent decision to impose a 25% tariff on global steel and aluminum imports. Calling these tariffs &ldquo;the first of many,&rdquo; the president has hinted at further duties on vehicles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other products.
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The new metal tariffs have raised concerns in India&rsquo;s steel and aluminum industries, which export goods worth billions of dollars to the US annually. On Tuesday, the Indian Steel Association warned that exports could drop by as much as 85% due to these new measures.
<h2>A test for Modi-Trump relations</h2>
The upcoming meeting will be a key moment for Modi and Trump as they navigate trade tensions. Trump has previously praised Modi as &ldquo;the nicest human being,&rdquo; while the Indian leader has referred to Trump as his &ldquo;dear friend&rdquo;.
Despite Trump&rsquo;s history of imposing tariffs on allies, India has so far avoided direct confrontation over trade disputes. However, with the recent tariffs, that could change.
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<h2>What to expect from the talks</h2>
India&rsquo;s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, highlighted the significance of this meeting, stating that Modi&rsquo;s invitation to Washington &ldquo;within barely three weeks of the new administration taking office&rdquo; underscores the importance of US-India relations.
In a move to ease trade friction, India recently reduced duties on a range of products, including high-end motorcycles like Harley-Davidsons. Further tariff cuts on US exports, such as electronics, medical equipment, chemicals, dish antennae, and wood pulp, are also being considered.
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Trade between the two countries has been steadily growing, surpassing $118 billion (&pound;95 billion) last financial year, with India running a $32 billion trade surplus. While Trump has called for a &ldquo;fairer&rdquo; relationship, India has indicated a willingness to discuss a limited trade deal to address US concerns over market access.
<h2>Immigration and deportation issues</h2>
Another pressing issue on the agenda is immigration. Trump has been cracking down on illegal migration and claims that Modi has assured him India &ldquo;will do what&rsquo;s right&rdquo; in response.
Last week, the US deported 104 Indian migrants, with many more expected to be returned. Images of deportees in shackles on a 42-hour military flight have caused public outrage in India. Discussions are likely to focus on managing the repatriation of hundreds more Indian nationals facing deportation.
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India also hopes to move past legal disputes stemming from US accusations of an alleged Indian government plot to assassinate an American citizen on US soil.
<h2>Defence cooperation and military deals</h2>
A potential area of cooperation where both leaders could claim success is defence. India is the world&rsquo;s largest importer of military arms, accounting for nearly 10% of global imports, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
For decades, India has relied on affordable and dependable Russian defence equipment. High costs and political barriers kept American weapons out of reach. However, with changing dynamics, defence cooperation between India and the US could see significant progress during this visit.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News, World: The meeting will be a key moment for Modi and Trump as they navigate trade tensions. Trump has previously praised Modi as “the nicest human being,” while the Indian leader has referred to Trump as his “dear friend.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on his way to Washington for a crucial meeting with US President Donald Trump. This will be their first official encounter since Trump began his second term in office. Modi’s two-day visit comes at a tense moment, following Trump’s recent decision to impose a 25% tariff on global steel and aluminum imports. Calling these tariffs “the first of many,” the president has hinted at further duties on vehicles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other products. Also read: Ahead of PM Modi’s US visit, Trump’s top economic adviser calls India’s tariffs ‘enormously high’ The new metal tariffs have raised concerns in India’s steel and aluminum industries, which export goods worth billions of dollars to the US annually. On Tuesday, the Indian Steel Association warned that exports could drop by as much as 85% due to these new measures. A test for Modi-Trump relations The upcoming meeting will be a key moment for Modi and Trump as they navigate trade tensions. Trump has previously praised Modi as “the nicest human being,” while the Indian leader has referred to Trump as his “dear friend”. Despite Trump’s history of imposing tariffs on allies, India has so far avoided direct confrontation over trade disputes. However, with the recent tariffs, that could change. Also read: ‘Won’t accept American and Israeli threats’: Hamas warns Trump, Netanyahu over Gaza ceasefire ultimatum What to expect from the talks India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, highlighted the significance of this meeting, stating that Modi’s invitation to Washington “within barely three weeks of the new administration taking office” underscores the importance of US-India relations. In a move to ease trade friction, India recently reduced duties on a range of products, including high-end motorcycles like Harley-Davidsons. Further tariff cuts on US exports, such as electronics, medical equipment, chemicals, dish antennae, and wood pulp, are also being considered. Also read: ‘Promptly corrected’: Elon Musk’s DOGE staffer was ‘mistakenly’ given ‘edit’ access to sensitive Treasury data Trade between the two countries has been steadily growing, surpassing $118 billion (£95 billion) last financial year, with India running a $32 billion trade surplus. While Trump has called for a “fairer” relationship, India has indicated a willingness to discuss a limited trade deal to address US concerns over market access. Immigration and deportation issues Another pressing issue on the agenda is immigration. Trump has been cracking down on illegal migration and claims that Modi has assured him India “will do what’s right” in response. Last week, the US deported 104 Indian migrants, with many more expected to be returned. Images of deportees in shackles on a 42-hour military flight have caused public outrage in India. Discussions are likely to focus on managing the repatriation of hundreds more Indian nationals facing deportation. Also read: PM Modi in Marseille: Inaugurates Indian consulate, pays tribute to Indian soldiers killed in World Wars India also hopes to move past legal disputes stemming from US accusations of an alleged Indian government plot to assassinate an American citizen on US soil. Defence cooperation and military deals A potential area of cooperation where both leaders could claim success is defence. India is the world’s largest importer of military arms, accounting for nearly 10% of global imports, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. For decades, India has relied on affordable and dependable Russian defence equipment. High costs and political barriers kept American weapons out of reach. However, with changing dynamics, defence cooperation between India and the US could see significant progress during this visit. (With inputs from agencies)

Modi’s US visit: Indian PM to meet ‘dear friend’ Trump amid tariff threats, mass deportations

A 53-year-old man has died of Guillain-Barr&eacute; Syndrome (GBS) at a hospital in Mumbai, the first fatality here due to the nerve disorder, officials said on Wednesday.
The patient, a resident of Mumbai&rsquo;s Wadala area and working as a ward boy in a civic-run hospital, had sometime back visited Pune, which has witnessed the GBS outbreak, they said.
He was admitted to another civic-run hospital here on January 23. The man was in a critical condition for several days and died on Tuesday, the officials said.
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Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) commissioner and its state-appointed administrator Bhushan Gagrani confirmed to PTI that it is the first death in the metropolis due to the GBS.
GBS is a rare condition in which a person&rsquo;s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, resulting in muscle weakness, loss of sensation in the legs and/or arms, as well as problems swallowing or breathing.
The patient was admitted to the Nair Hospital on January 23, following complaints of weakness in their legs.
He was shifted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and put on a ventilator as he was facing breathlessness and given his critical condition, a BMC release said.
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&ldquo;The patient was detected with GBS and was given the necessary treatment for it,&rdquo; the release stated.
&ldquo;Sixteen days before being admitted to the hospital, the patient had visited Pune,&rdquo; which has witnessed a large number of GBS cases, it said.
The patient had not shown symptoms like fever and diarrhoea, the civic body said.
Meanwhile, a 16-year-old girl from neighbouring Palghar district is currently undergoing treatment for GBS at the Nair Hospital, the BMC said.
All hospitals and medical colleges in Mumbai were prepared for the treatment of GBS patients. The necessary medicines, equipment and expertise were available in the city, it added.
Mumbai reported its first case of GBS on February 7 after a 64-year-old woman, a resident of Andheri (East), was diagnosed with the nerve disorder, officials earlier said.
The Pune region has so far reported seven deaths suspected to have been caused by the GBS.
The tally of suspected and confirmed GBS cases in Pune region on Tuesday reached 197, according to health department officials.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a ANI 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&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

India news: The patient, a resident of Mumbai’s Wadala area and working as a ward boy in a civic-run hospital, had sometime back visited Pune, which has witnessed the GBS outbreak, they said.

A 53-year-old man has died of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) at a hospital in Mumbai, the first fatality here due to the nerve disorder, officials said on Wednesday. The patient, a resident of Mumbai’s Wadala area and working as a ward boy in a civic-run hospital, had sometime back visited Pune, which has witnessed the GBS outbreak, they said. He was admitted to another civic-run hospital here on January 23. The man was in a critical condition for several days and died on Tuesday, the officials said. Also read: Mumbai reports first case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in 64-year-old woman Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) commissioner and its state-appointed administrator Bhushan Gagrani confirmed to PTI that it is the first death in the metropolis due to the GBS. GBS is a rare condition in which a person’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, resulting in muscle weakness, loss of sensation in the legs and/or arms, as well as problems swallowing or breathing. The patient was admitted to the Nair Hospital on January 23, following complaints of weakness in their legs. He was shifted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and put on a ventilator as he was facing breathlessness and given his critical condition, a BMC release said. Also read: What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare disorder affecting 59 people in Pune? “The patient was detected with GBS and was given the necessary treatment for it,” the release stated. “Sixteen days before being admitted to the hospital, the patient had visited Pune,” which has witnessed a large number of GBS cases, it said. The patient had not shown symptoms like fever and diarrhoea, the civic body said. Meanwhile, a 16-year-old girl from neighbouring Palghar district is currently undergoing treatment for GBS at the Nair Hospital, the BMC said. All hospitals and medical colleges in Mumbai were prepared for the treatment of GBS patients. The necessary medicines, equipment and expertise were available in the city, it added. Mumbai reported its first case of GBS on February 7 after a 64-year-old woman, a resident of Andheri (East), was diagnosed with the nerve disorder, officials earlier said. The Pune region has so far reported seven deaths suspected to have been caused by the GBS. The tally of suspected and confirmed GBS cases in Pune region on Tuesday reached 197, according to health department officials. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a ANI 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.

Mumbai reports first Guillain-Barré Syndrome death as cases rise in Pune

The Supreme Court on Wednesday deprecated the practice of announcing freebies prior to elections and said people were not willing to work as they were getting free ration and money.
The observations came from a bench of Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih, which was hearing a matter concerning the right to shelter of homeless persons in urban areas.
"Unfortunately, because of these freebies... The people are not willing to work. They are getting free rations. They are getting amount without doing any work," Justice Gavai observed.
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"We quite appreciate your concern for them but would it not be better to make them a part of the mainstream of society and permit them to contribute to the development of the nation," the bench said.
Attorney General R Venkataramani told the bench that the Centre was in the process of finalising the urban poverty alleviation mission, which would address various issues, including the provision of shelter for the urban homeless.
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The bench asked the Attorney General to verify from the Centre as to within how much time the urban poverty alleviation mission would be made applicable. The top court posted the matter for hearing after six weeks.
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.
&nbsp;

India News | "Unfortunately, because of these freebies... The people are not willing to work. They are getting free rations. They are getting amount without doing any work," Justice Gavai observed.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday deprecated the practice of announcing freebies prior to elections and said people were not willing to work as they were getting free ration and money. The observations came from a bench of Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih, which was hearing a matter concerning the right to shelter of homeless persons in urban areas. "Unfortunately, because of these freebies... The people are not willing to work. They are getting free rations. They are getting amount without doing any work," Justice Gavai observed. Also Read | Kerala ragging horror: Dumbbells hung from private parts, stabbed with compass; Five arrested "We quite appreciate your concern for them but would it not be better to make them a part of the mainstream of society and permit them to contribute to the development of the nation," the bench said. Attorney General R Venkataramani told the bench that the Centre was in the process of finalising the urban poverty alleviation mission, which would address various issues, including the provision of shelter for the urban homeless. Also Read | Narendra Modi-led Indian govt to table new Immigration and Foreigners Bill in Parliament. Here are key details The bench asked the Attorney General to verify from the Centre as to within how much time the urban poverty alleviation mission would be made applicable. The top court posted the matter for hearing after six weeks. 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.

Supreme court criticises freebies, says people not willing to work

The Indian rupee has staged a remarkable comeback after hitting an all-time low, thanks to RBI’s strategic intervention. Despite global economic risks and stock market chaos, the currency’s rebound has surprised analysts and investors alike.

Rupee recovers amidst stock market chaos

Rupee stages its strongest comeback in nearly two years

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.
A shocking ragging case has emerged from the Government Nursing College in Kottayam, Kerala, where first-year students were allegedly subjected to months of physical and mental torture.&nbsp;
<h2>Months of brutality</h2>
The incident came to light after three first-year students from Thiruvananthapuram filed a complaint with the Kottayam Gandhinagar police. They alleged that their seniors forced them to strip naked and hung dumbbells from their private parts. The victims were also stabbed with sharp objects, including a compass from a geometry box.&nbsp;
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Five third-year nursing students have been arrested following a police complaint that detailed violent abuse stretching over three months.
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<h2>Physical assaults</h2>
According to the complaint, seniors were demanding money from juniors every Sunday to purchase alcohol. Those who refused to comply were physically assaulted. One victim, unable to endure the harassment any longer, told his father about the situation. The father then advised him to go to the police.
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<h2>Torture and threats </h2>
The abuse worsened when lotion was applied to the victims' wounds, intensifying their pain. When they screamed in agony, the seniors allegedly smeared the lotion into their mouths. The accused also filmed the acts and used the footage to threaten the juniors, warning them against reporting the abuse.&nbsp;
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<h2>Suspension and legal action&nbsp;</h2>
Following the complaint, the accused students were suspended and later arrested under the Anti-Ragging Act. They are currently in police custody and are expected to be produced before a magistrate by Wednesday afternoon.
(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

India News | Five third-year students of the Government Nursing College in Kottayam, Kerala, have been arrested following a police complaint that detailed violent abuse stretching over three months.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. A shocking ragging case has emerged from the Government Nursing College in Kottayam, Kerala, where first-year students were allegedly subjected to months of physical and mental torture. Months of brutality The incident came to light after three first-year students from Thiruvananthapuram filed a complaint with the Kottayam Gandhinagar police. They alleged that their seniors forced them to strip naked and hung dumbbells from their private parts. The victims were also stabbed with sharp objects, including a compass from a geometry box. Also Read | Sheena Bora murder case: SC rejects Indrani's plea to travel abroad, says 'No guarantee you will come back' Five third-year nursing students have been arrested following a police complaint that detailed violent abuse stretching over three months. Also Read | L&T chairman says labourers in India not willing to work, blames govt beneficiary schemes Physical assaults According to the complaint, seniors were demanding money from juniors every Sunday to purchase alcohol. Those who refused to comply were physically assaulted. One victim, unable to endure the harassment any longer, told his father about the situation. The father then advised him to go to the police. Also Read | Narendra Modi-led Indian govt to table new Immigration and Foreigners Bill in Parliament. Here are key details Torture and threats The abuse worsened when lotion was applied to the victims' wounds, intensifying their pain. When they screamed in agony, the seniors allegedly smeared the lotion into their mouths. The accused also filmed the acts and used the footage to threaten the juniors, warning them against reporting the abuse. Also Read | Maha Kumbh 2025: Magh Purnima Amrit Snan begins in Prayagraj with record millions in attendance Suspension and legal action Following the complaint, the accused students were suspended and later arrested under the Anti-Ragging Act. They are currently in police custody and are expected to be produced before a magistrate by Wednesday afternoon. (With inputs from agencies)

Kerala ragging horror: Dumbbells hung from private parts, stabbed with compass; Five arrested

The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the plea of Indrani Mukerjea, accused of killing her daughter Sheena Bora, against a ruling denying her permission to travel abroad.
A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal directed the trial court to conduct the proceedings in the case within a year and upheld the Bombay High Court order refusing her plea.
"There is no guarantee that you will come back. Trial is at an advanced stage. Taking into consideration the fact that the trial is ongoing, we are not inclined to consider the request at this stage. We direct the trial court to expedite the hearing and conclude within a year," it said.
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The bench gave liberty to Mukerjea to approach the trial court. Opposing the permission, the CBI counsel said it was a sensitive matter and the trial had reached halfway with the examination of 96 witnesses.
The counsel for Mukerjea, a former media executive, submitted she was given bail by the top court, and 92 witnesses are still to be examined in the case.
She said the trial court was vacant for the last four months and the proceedings could take a long time to conclude.The travel restriction matter came up in the Supreme Court after a special court on July 19 allowed Mukerjea's plea to visit Spain and the United Kingdom for 10 days over the next three months.
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The Bombay High Court, however, set aside the order on September 27 after the CBI filed an appeal. Mukerjea moved the apex court against the high court order.
In her plea, filed through advocate Sana Raees Khan, Mukerjea said she was a British citizen as she sought permission to visit Spain and her home country for "making necessary changes and amendments and taking care of pending work that cannot be transacted without her personal presence".
She argued the activation of a digital certificate was a must for all relevant work and administration in Spain, and her physical presence was mandatory.
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While setting aside the special court's order, the high court said if Mukerjea wished to perform these works from India, the statutory authorities back home would extend her necessary support with the assistance of the Embassy of Spain and the UK.
Mukerjea was arrested in August 2015 after the murder of Bora came to light. She was granted bail by the Supreme Court in May 2022. She has denied the allegations.
Bora, 24, was allegedly strangled to death in a car by Mukerjea, her then-driver Shyamvar Rai, and former husband Sanjeev Khanna in April 2012 in Mumbai. Her mortal remains were then burned in a forest in the neighbouring Raigad district, according to the prosecution.
Bora was Mukerjea's daughter from her previous relationship.
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The killing came to light in 2015 when Rai reportedly spilled the beans during his interrogation by police after his arrest in a separate case registered under the Arms Act.
Mukerjea's ex-husband Peter Mukerjea was also arrested for allegedly being a part of the conspiracy linked to the murder, probed by the CBI.
All the accused are currently on bail.
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: A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal directed the trial court to conduct the proceedings in the case within a year and upheld the Bombay High Court order.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the plea of Indrani Mukerjea, accused of killing her daughter Sheena Bora, against a ruling denying her permission to travel abroad. A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal directed the trial court to conduct the proceedings in the case within a year and upheld the Bombay High Court order refusing her plea. "There is no guarantee that you will come back. Trial is at an advanced stage. Taking into consideration the fact that the trial is ongoing, we are not inclined to consider the request at this stage. We direct the trial court to expedite the hearing and conclude within a year," it said. Netflix to halt docu-series release on Indrani Mukerjea's case till Feb 29 after CBI moves court The bench gave liberty to Mukerjea to approach the trial court. Opposing the permission, the CBI counsel said it was a sensitive matter and the trial had reached halfway with the examination of 96 witnesses. The counsel for Mukerjea, a former media executive, submitted she was given bail by the top court, and 92 witnesses are still to be examined in the case. She said the trial court was vacant for the last four months and the proceedings could take a long time to conclude.The travel restriction matter came up in the Supreme Court after a special court on July 19 allowed Mukerjea's plea to visit Spain and the United Kingdom for 10 days over the next three months. Also read: Sheena Bora's bones finally found in CBI's Delhi office, but won't be used as evidence. Here's why The Bombay High Court, however, set aside the order on September 27 after the CBI filed an appeal. Mukerjea moved the apex court against the high court order. In her plea, filed through advocate Sana Raees Khan, Mukerjea said she was a British citizen as she sought permission to visit Spain and her home country for "making necessary changes and amendments and taking care of pending work that cannot be transacted without her personal presence". She argued the activation of a digital certificate was a must for all relevant work and administration in Spain, and her physical presence was mandatory. Also read: Sheena Bora murder case: Bones, other remains missing, CBI court told While setting aside the special court's order, the high court said if Mukerjea wished to perform these works from India, the statutory authorities back home would extend her necessary support with the assistance of the Embassy of Spain and the UK. Mukerjea was arrested in August 2015 after the murder of Bora came to light. She was granted bail by the Supreme Court in May 2022. She has denied the allegations. Bora, 24, was allegedly strangled to death in a car by Mukerjea, her then-driver Shyamvar Rai, and former husband Sanjeev Khanna in April 2012 in Mumbai. Her mortal remains were then burned in a forest in the neighbouring Raigad district, according to the prosecution. Bora was Mukerjea's daughter from her previous relationship. Also read: Netflix releases trailer of The Indrani Mukerjea Story: Buried Truth. Watch The killing came to light in 2015 when Rai reportedly spilled the beans during his interrogation by police after his arrest in a separate case registered under the Arms Act. Mukerjea's ex-husband Peter Mukerjea was also arrested for allegedly being a part of the conspiracy linked to the murder, probed by the CBI. All the accused are currently on bail. 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.

Sheena Bora murder case: SC rejects Indrani's plea to travel abroad, says 'No guarantee you will come back'

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