Telangana Municipal Poll Results to Be Declared Today
Telangana begins counting votes for 116 municipalities and 7 corporations today; high turnout, security tight, parties await crucial municipal election results.
End of an era at South Block as Seva Teerth becomes new PMO, PM Modi to inaugurate today
Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan 1 & 2, consolidating executive offices and key ministries into modern, sustainable complexes and symbolising a shift to citizen‑centric governance.
Nifty IT Slides Over 10% From January Peak as AI Fears Trigger Sector Re-rating
Investor sentiment weakens as technology stocks face valuation reset, global slowdown concerns, earnings pressure, and uncertainty over artificial intelligence-led demand sustainability.
Former Doordarshan news reader Sarla Maheshwari passes away at 71
Sarla Maheshwari, veteran Doordarshan newsreader and pioneer of Indian television news, died in Delhi at 71, leaving behind a legacy of grace.
Telangana Auto Strike Brings City to a Halt: Drivers Demand Fare Hike, Ban on App services
Telangana auto-rickshaw drivers strike over low fares, rising fuel costs, and Ola-Uber apps, disrupting Hyderabad commuters and demanding government action.
Instagram chief rejects clinical addiction claim in landmark social media trial
The verdict may redefine legal responsibility of tech platforms for youth mental health harms and influence nationwide regulation of social media.
Cyclone Gezani batters Madagascar, 31 dead as port city Toamasina suffers massive damage
Severe Cyclone Gezani killed at least 31 in Madagascar, devastated Toamasina, displaced thousands, and is unlikely to affect India, authorities said.
Russia moves to restrict whatsApp over alleged legal violations
The standoff reflects Moscow’s broader push for digital sovereignty and tighter state control over foreign technology platforms operating inside Russia.
EU leaders meet to counter pressure from Russia, China, Trump
EU leaders met at Belgium’s Alden Biesen castle to discuss competitiveness, strategic autonomy, and industrial policy. Macron, Merz, Meloni, von der Leyen and Draghi emphasized reforms amid U.S., China, and Russia pressures.
South Korea's former interior minister gets 7-year sentence for aiding martial law
Former South Korean interior minister Lee Sang-min was sentenced to seven years for aiding Yoon Suk Yeol’s brief 2024 martial law declaration. Yoon faces rebellion charges, verdict expected February 19, 2026.
Hyderabad Airport Bomb Threat Turns Out to Be Hoax
Bomb threat email at Hyderabad’s RGIA targeting Gulf Air flight declared hoax after security checks; police register case, operations unaffected.
Food Safety Concerns Rock Gurukuls and Universities, Students Demand Action
Food poisoning allegations in Gurukuls and Osmania University spark protests, as BRS accuses CM Revanth of negligence.
Under ‘Telangana Rising 2047’, Mobile Anganwadis Set for Hyderabad
Telangana plans mobile anganwadi units in Hyderabad to deliver nutrition services to 25,310 underserved children, pregnant women and mothers.
AP High Court Gets New Additional Judge as Justice Balaji Medamalli Takes Oath
Justice Balaji Medamalli sworn in as Additional Judge of Andhra Pradesh High Court, raising judge strength to 33.
Pay over Public Duty: Jana Sena MLA’s Hits Out at YSRCP Congress Leaders
Jana Sena MLAs accuse YSRCP lawmakers of attending Assembly only for salaries, disrupting proceedings, ignoring public issues, and undermining democratic traditions.
AP Minority Morcha Chief Syed Basha Dismisses Rahul Gandhi’s Allegations Against Modi as Political
AP Minority Morcha chief Syed Basha calls Rahul Gandhi’s allegations against PM Modi political, defends Modi’s diplomacy, trade, and governance record.
Recruitment Drive Soon in Power Department: Minister Ravi Kumar
Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar announced that new recruitments will soon be initiated in Andhra Pradesh’s electricity department to reduce workload.
Protect the Sanctity of the House, Says Speaker Ayyannapatrudu
AP Speaker Ayyannapatrudu condemned YSRCP disruptions during Governor’s address, urging members to uphold Assembly dignity and democratic values.
Minister Kolusu Parthasarathi Unveils ₹6 Crore Smart City Plan for Nuzvid
Minister Kolusu Parthasarathi announced ₹6 crore infrastructure projects to transform Nuzvid into a modern smart, well-connected municipality.
Andhra Pradesh Budget Session and Vision 2047: Aspiration, Arithmetic and Accountability
Can Andhra Pradesh’s Vision 2047 turn trillion-dollar dreams into reality, or will fiscal stress and execution gaps test the promise of a truly “Swarna Andhra”?
National Women’s Day: A Tribute to the ‘Nightingale of India’
A visionary poet known as the 'Nightingale of India,' Sarojini Naidu was a pioneering freedom fighter who became the first Indian woman to lead the Congress and serve as a state Governor. "Her birth anniversary on February 13 is celebrated as National Women’s Day, honoring her lifelong dedication to women's rights, education, and the cultural heritage of India."
2025 Influential African Women List: Leaders and Changemakers Take Centre Stage
Annual ranking honors prominent African women, recognizing achievements in governance, innovation, advocacy, and social development across multiple sectors continentwide.
PM Modi Meets Rolls-Royce CEO, India Expansion and Engine Deal Talks Advance
Strategic partnership discussions focused on technology transfer, manufacturing growth, workforce expansion, defence collaboration, and positioning India as a global high-tech production hub.
Kiteskraft unveils ‘The Power List: Minds and Missions’
Kiteskraft Productions LLP launches The Power List, featuring leaders from diverse fields who redefine success through ethics, innovation, and social impact.
Odisha records 765 dolphins, highest in five years, Chilika’s Irrawaddy population steadies
Odisha records a five-year high of 765 dolphins, including 159 Irrawaddy in Chilika Lake. Rising sightings reflect successful conservation, cleaner waters, and healthy ecosystems, highlighting dolphins as indicators of environmental recovery.
Amul launches AI platform ‘Sarlaben’ to support dairy farmers
Gujarat’s Amul launches AI platform ‘Sarlaben’, providing 24×7 guidance in Gujarati to over 36 lakh dairy farmers, enhancing cattle care, productivity, and income while empowering women and strengthening rural cooperatives.
Bihar rural works minister claims 16 lakh arrests, 4.5 crore litres seized under prohibition
Bihar Rural Works Minister Ashok Choudhary said over 4.5 crore litres of liquor were seized and 16 lakh arrested since prohibition, while child substance abuse and cross-border smuggling remain major concerns.
UP trains 1.31 lakh artisans under ODOP scheme, exports surge to Rs 1.84 lakh Cr
Uttar Pradesh’s ODOP scheme has trained 1.31 lakh artisans, boosted employment, and driven exports growth by promoting traditional district-specific industries.
Puducherry Assembly passes Rs 5,396 Cr vote on account ahead of 2026 elections
Puducherry Assembly passed a Rs 5,396 crore Vote on Account for FY 2026–27 ahead of elections, ensuring continuity of governance and administration.
Nishikant Dubey moves motion against Rahul Gandhi over Lok Sabha remarks
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey moved a Lok Sabha motion seeking action against Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on foreign policy and trade, a move the Opposition slammed as politically motivated and aimed at silencing dissent.
Nationwide trade union strike sees mixed impact across states
Millions protest new labour codes as opposition backs unions, disrupting coal production, transport services, banking operations across multiple regions nationwide.
Odisha Police to launch major Anti-Maoist operation in Gandhamardhan hills
Odisha Police are set to launch a major anti-Maoist operation in the Gandhamardhan hills amid recent encounters, killings and surrenders, aiming to declare the state ‘Naxal-free’ by March 31.
Shivam Mishra granted bail in VIP road Lamborghini crash case
Shivam Mishra, son of tobacco businessman K K Mishra, was granted bail on Thursday hours after his arrest in the VIP Road Lamborghini crash case.
Cop aspirant died after 1600 metre running
A 26-year-old police constable aspirant died after collapsing shortly after completing a 1,600-metre run during a recruitment physical test in Maharashtra’s Beed district.
Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions found in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings reveal ancient India-Egypt trade
Researchers have discovered 2,000-year-old Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, revealing that ancient Tamil traders travelled inland, highlighting India–Egypt trade links and deep cultural exchanges.
Goa to kick off Carnival 2026 on Feb 13, festivities to be held in multiple cities in state
Goa’s Carnival 2026, from February 13‑17, will showcase vibrant floats, music, dance, King Momo, traditional food, and cultural performances across multiple towns, celebrating heritage, community spirit, and inclusive state-wide festivities.
‘Media publicity’: SC dismisses Jairam Ramesh’s plea on retrospective green clearances
The Supreme Court, citing ‘media publicity’, dismissed Jairam Ramesh’s writ petition challenging retrospective environmental clearances, allowing withdrawal, while highlighting legal limits and ongoing debates over ex-post facto green approvals in India.
Fake gangster nabbed over ₹10-cr land grab attempt in Delhi's Rohini
A 32‑year‑old Delhi man, Vikas alias Vicky, was arrested for impersonating a Himanshu Bhau gang member and attempting to extort a ₹10‑crore Rohini property; police continue hunting accomplices.
Swami Dayanand Saraswati’s intellectual brilliance will continue to inspire the nation: Adityanath
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute to Swami Dayanand Saraswati on his birth anniversary, describing him as a great Vedic scholar, social reformer and founder of the Arya Samaj whose ideas continue to inspire the nation. He said Swami Dayanand devoted his life to social upliftment, national awakening and human welfare, promoting equality, rational thinking and cultural pride.
Bengaluru Man Held for Stabbing Retired Navy Captain Father, Dentist Mother
Bengaluru techie arrested for allegedly killing parents; financial dispute over startup funding suspected, investigation ongoing into motive and mental state.
Antique gold, silver coins seized at Mumbai airport, Value could run into crores
Customs officials at Mumbai airport seized rare antique gold and silver coins from a passenger arriving from London, including a Kushan-era gold dinar, an East India Company gold mohur, and a Mughal silver zodiac rupee of Jahangir.
Drone camera exposes mass copying in Maharashtra Class 12 exam, 17 teachers booked
Drone surveillance exposed organised mass copying during Maharashtra’s Class 12 exams in Beed, leading to FIRs against 17 teachers, intensified monitoring, and strict enforcement to safeguard examination integrity across centres.
Jyoti Sharma becomes fastest Indian to scale Mount Kilimanjaro solo
Indian mountaineer Jyoti Sharma created history by becoming the fastest Indian to scale Mount Kilimanjaro solo, completing the climb in 2 days, 19 hours and 44 minutes on Republic Day.
Eight held in spurious Himalaya wellness tablet racket
Eight people arrested in Muradnagar for manufacturing and distributing fake Himalaya Wellness tablets, part of a growing spate of counterfeit medicine cases across India.
RERA Under Fire: Supreme Court Signals Urgent Reform Needed
Supreme Court criticises RERA’s functioning, says it aids defaulting builders, fails homebuyers, and urges states to rethink authority’s structure.
New CPI Series Rolled Out: Retail Inflation at 2.75% in January
Revised inflation framework adds digital services, e-commerce pricing and airfares, expanding basket coverage and updating weights to reflect consumption patterns.
SC says ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’ title may denigrate community, hearing on Feb 19
The Supreme Court objected to the title of Neeraj Pandey’s film Ghooskhor Pandat, citing concerns over denigration, morality, and public order.
India Targets $500 Billion US Trade as Export Strategy Accelerates
Goyal reassures textile exporters on US tariff parity, highlights SBI concerns, and outlines fresh trade agreements boosting global competitiveness.
‘Attack on freedom of religion’: Jamiat objects to mandatory singing of all stanzas of Vande Mataram
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has opposed the Centre’s directive mandating the singing of all six stanzas of Vande Mataram, calling it a violation of religious freedom, while legal experts say compulsory participation in belief-based expression raises constitutional concerns under Article 25 and Supreme Court precedent.
SC refuses to entertain plea against Mahashivaratri puja at Ladle Mashak Dargah
The Supreme Court refused to entertain a plea seeking to stop Mahashivaratri puja at the Ladle Mashak Dargah in Karnataka’s Aland, holding that the matter could not be examined under Article 32 and must be decided by appropriate forums such as the Karnataka High Court and the Waqf Tribunal. The shrine, historically associated with both a 14th-century Sufi saint and the samadhi and Shivaling of 15th-century Hindu saint Raghava Chaitanya, has become a point of contention since 2022 over competing religious rights.
World Radio Day 2026: Why radio still matters in a digital age
World Radio Day 2026, observed on February 13, highlights the continued relevance of radio as a trusted public service medium in the digital age. With the theme “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice,” the observance emphasises that while artificial intelligence can support broadcasting through improved production, translation and accessibility, the human voice and editorial judgement remain central to radio’s credibility.
NHRC issues notice to Gurugram Police over alleged sexual assault
Five minor boys (aged 11–14) in Gurugram were allegedly held captive for 18 hours, stripped, sexually assaulted, tortured with beatings, hot spoons, and petrol poured on their genitals over a petty theft suspicion by a contractor and his workers. The NHRC has taken suo motu notice and issued a notice to the Gurugram Police Commissioner seeking a detailed report within two weeks.
SC invokes Article 142, shifts consumer cases to High Courts in states with low pendency
The Supreme Court invoked its special powers under Article 142 to direct certain High Courts to take over consumer dispute cases from State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions in states with very low case pendency. The court noted that several commissions were either handling very few cases or were non-functional due to the absence of judicial members, making their continued operation an unnecessary financial burden on states.
New Bengaluru CoE to train 30,000 students in green skills and applied AI
The Centre of Excellence for Green Skills and Applied Artificial Intelligence for Climate Action was inaugurated by Karnataka’s Higher Education Minister M C Sudhakar at SKSJTI Government College in Bengaluru. The facility, set up with support from the 1M1B Foundation, Microsoft, and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), aims to provide students with skills in sustainability, AI, and climate innovation.
Massive fire decimates warehouse in Erode, goods worth Rs 2.5 cr gutted
A major fire hit a private warehouse in Gopichettipalayam, Tamil Nadu, early Thursday, destroying goods worth Rs 2.5 crore. No casualties were reported. A short circuit is suspected.
Come back to India or face no hearing: Bombay HC warns Vijay Vittal Mallya on fugitive status plea
Bombay High Court granted Vijay Mallya one last chance to confirm return to India, rejecting his challenge to the fugitive economic offender tag until he submits to Indian jurisdiction before February 18.
Andaman students protest deemed university plan, sound alarm over academic future
Students in Andaman and Nicobar Islands are protesting plans to shift colleges to a deemed university, demanding safeguards on continuity, fees and degree recognition, as authorities assure smooth transition, funding support and mandatory accreditation.
‘Safety first, production next’ formula for nuclear power: Jitendra Singh
Jitendra Singh assured Parliament that Kudankulam follows strict safety-first norms, dismissed politically driven fears, and explained the power-sharing formula, stressing there has never been any nuclear mishap at the plant.
India Thrash Namibia by 93 Runs, Italy and Sri Lanka Register Big Wins
Explosive batting displays, disciplined bowling spells and dominant net run rate boosts reshape group standings across three high-intensity encounters.
Aishwary Tomar Sets World Record as India Sweep 50m Rifle Podium
He fired 362.0 in the final, while Niraj and Akhil secured silver and bronze to seal team gold.
Deep understanding key differentiator in modern chess: Viswanathan Anand
Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand said deep understanding, not computer-driven data or memorisation, is the key differentiator in modern chess, speaking at a Velammal Education Trust workshop in Chennai.
Tough group awaits India at AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup in China
India have been drawn in a challenging Group B with Japan, Australia, and Lebanon for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup.
India’s Singles Challenge Ends, Doubles Stars Rise in Chennai
Sumit Nagal exits after three-set battle, while two Indian pairs secure semifinal berths in ATP Challenger event at SDAT Stadium.
Winter Olympics 2026: Norway Leads Gold Race, Italy Tops Overall Medal Standings
Host momentum strengthens as the United States, Germany and Austria chase podium surge, while Nordic dominance and alpine brilliance define competition narrative.
K-pop meets Swiss precision: Jungkook becomes Hublot’s new global ambassador
Jungkook becomes Hublot’s global ambassador, joining its elite roster while expanding his influence as Calvin Klein ambassador ahead of BTS’s reunion.
Peddi director Buchi Babu wishes Jaggu Bhai on 64th Birthday, Tributes Pour In
Director Buchi Babu Sana led birthday tributes for veteran actor Jalapathi Babu, fondly known as Jaggu Bhai, as he turned 64, sharing a post from the sets of his upcoming film Peddi. The film, starring Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar and Prakash Raj, is set for release on April 30, 2026. The Salaar team also honoured the actor with a special poster, while fans recalled his journey from child artiste to leading man and acclaimed character actor, with excitement building for Salaar: Chapter Two and Dulquer Salmaan’s DQ41.
R. Parthiban unveiled as menacing villain in Ustaad Bhagat Singh
R. Parthiban has been unveiled as the antagonist Nalla Nagappa in the Telugu action film Ustaad Bhagat Singh, with his striking first-look poster earning praise for its non-routine villain design. Directed by Harish Shankar, the film stars Pawan Kalyan as a fearless cop inspired by Bhagat Singh, alongside Sreeleela and Raashii Khanna. Backed by Mythri Movie Makers with music by Devi Sri Prasad, the film is nearing completion and is set for a worldwide release on March 26, 2026.
After Ranveer Singh, Aayush Sharma receives threat email linked to Lawrence Bishnoi gang
Mumbai Police launched probes after Aayush Sharma received a threat email and Ranveer Singh an extortion voice note, both allegedly linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, prompting heightened celebrity security.
NTR-Prashanth Neel’s Dragon OTT rights acquired by Netflix
NTR and Prashanth Neel’s pan-India action film Dragon OTT rights sold to Netflix, first look on May 19, 2026, with theatrical release on June 25, 2026.
‘Hey Bhagawan’ team hosts special promotional bash in hyderabad
Hyderabad hosts a special promotional bash for Hey Bhagawan, with Sai Dharam Tej interacting with fans ahead of the film’s release.
₹33 Lakh Eco Gift to Tirumala: Chennai Realtor Donates 5 Battery Buggies
Chennai realtor Bal Ramajayam donates five battery buggies worth ₹33 lakh to TTD to improve pilgrim transport services.
EDITORIAL AND SPECIAL STORY
Andhra Pradesh Budget Session and Vision 2047: Aspiration, Arithmetic and Accountability
Can Andhra Pradesh’s Vision 2047 turn trillion-dollar dreams into reality, or will fiscal stress and execution gaps test the promise of a truly “Swarna Andhra”?
National Women’s Day: A Tribute to the ‘Nightingale of India’
A visionary poet known as the 'Nightingale of India,' Sarojini Naidu was a pioneering freedom fighter who became the first Indian woman to lead the Congress and serve as a state Governor. "Her birth anniversary on February 13 is celebrated as National Women’s Day, honoring her lifelong dedication to women's rights, education, and the cultural heritage of India."
SPORTS
India Thrash Namibia by 93 Runs, Italy and Sri Lanka Register Big Wins
Explosive batting displays, disciplined bowling spells and dominant net run rate boosts reshape group standings across three high-intensity encounters.
Aishwary Tomar Sets World Record as India Sweep 50m Rifle Podium
He fired 362.0 in the final, while Niraj and Akhil secured silver and bronze to seal team gold.
Tough group awaits India at AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup in China
India have been drawn in a challenging Group B with Japan, Australia, and Lebanon for the AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup.
India’s Singles Challenge Ends, Doubles Stars Rise in Chennai
Sumit Nagal exits after three-set battle, while two Indian pairs secure semifinal berths in ATP Challenger event at SDAT Stadium.
ENTERTAINMENT
Former Doordarshan news reader Sarla Maheshwari passes away at 71
Sarla Maheshwari, veteran Doordarshan newsreader and pioneer of Indian television news, died in Delhi at 71, leaving behind a legacy of grace.
K-pop meets Swiss precision: Jungkook becomes Hublot’s new global ambassador
Jungkook becomes Hublot’s global ambassador, joining its elite roster while expanding his influence as Calvin Klein ambassador ahead of BTS’s reunion.
R. Parthiban unveiled as menacing villain in Ustaad Bhagat Singh
R. Parthiban has been unveiled as the antagonist Nalla Nagappa in the Telugu action film Ustaad Bhagat Singh, with his striking first-look poster earning praise for its non-routine villain design. Directed by Harish Shankar, the film stars Pawan Kalyan as a fearless cop inspired by Bhagat Singh, alongside Sreeleela and Raashii Khanna. Backed by Mythri Movie Makers with music by Devi Sri Prasad, the film is nearing completion and is set for a worldwide release on March 26, 2026.
After Ranveer Singh, Aayush Sharma receives threat email linked to Lawrence Bishnoi gang
Mumbai Police launched probes after Aayush Sharma received a threat email and Ranveer Singh an extortion voice note, both allegedly linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, prompting heightened celebrity security.
NTR-Prashanth Neel’s Dragon OTT rights acquired by Netflix
NTR and Prashanth Neel’s pan-India action film Dragon OTT rights sold to Netflix, first look on May 19, 2026, with theatrical release on June 25, 2026.
‘Hey Bhagawan’ team hosts special promotional bash in hyderabad
Hyderabad hosts a special promotional bash for Hey Bhagawan, with Sai Dharam Tej interacting with fans ahead of the film’s release.