Strong momentum to continue in Q4, says CEA Anantha Nageswaran

The strong momentum of the economy is expected to continue in fourth quarter of current financial year, chief economic advisor V Anantha Nageswaran said on Thursday and hoped the farm sector will stage a rebound in next quarter. The farm sector contracted 0.8% during Q3 of 2023-24 largely due to impact of patchy monsoon rains. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/i17qyQs

'Always a delight': PM talks AI, agriculture, health with Gates

Bill Gates and PM Narendra Modi discussed AI for public good, digital public infrastructure, women-led development, innovation in agriculture, health, and climate adaptation, emphasizing the importance of leveraging AI and driving innovation. PM Modi, expressing his enthusiasm after the meeting, took to X (formerly Twitter) and said, "A wonderful meeting indeed! Always a delight to discuss sectors which will make our planet better and empower millions of people across the globe." Via Times of India https://ift.tt/i17qyQs

Rabri Devi hits out at turncoats, calls them 'shameless'

Two days after three opposition legislators—two from the Congress and one from the RJD—crossed over to the BJP, RJD leader and Bihar’s former chief minister Rabri Devi on Thursday came down heavily on them, terming them as “shameless” and said they must have resigned from the respective parties before switching their allegiance. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/i17qyQs

Sukhu lives to see another day as mantri retracts move to quit

Even as the Congress govt was grappling with a crisis triggered by cross-voting in RS polls, son of late former CM Virbhadra Singh and state PCC chief Pratibha Singh Vikramaditya announced his resignation as PWD minister in Sukhu’s cabinet at a presser in the assembly complex, breaking down and alleging humiliation. Within hours though, the Shimla Rural MLA retracted his decision Via Times of India https://ift.tt/JlYgzSO

Rapes, molestations at Guj nat’l law univ. 'Scary,' says HC

Gujarat HC has pulled up GNLU over a "really scary" report revealing incidents of molestation, rape, discrimination, homophobia, favouritism, suppression of voices and lack of an internal complaint committee. "How come this is a national law university," HC asked and decided to form a high-level panel to investigate GNLU's affairs. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/JlYgzSO

Indian team boycotts Thai representatives at WTO talks

A comment by Thailand's ambassador to WTO accusing India of using 'subsidised' rice for capturing the export market has created a diplomatic storm. Indian negotiators refused to participate in deliberations. The Indian govt lodged a strong protest and the issue of public stockholding remains unresolved due to the unwillingness of rich nations to discuss reducing import duties. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/JlYgzSO

Gunmen attack Manipur additional SP's home

Unidentified gunmen fired at the private residence of an additional SP police officer in Manipur's Imphal East district. Conflicting reports emerged of the officer being kidnapped and later rescued by members of Arambai Tenggoll. The officer's family members cowered inside as gunshots rang out. Manipur Police quickly mobilised forces and launched a successful rescue operation. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/vzxBq5d

Supped, drank together on Mon, backstabbed on Tues: Singhvi

Abhishek Singhvi and Harsh Mahajan tied in the election for the lone HP seat. Singhvi won the draw of lots but was later eliminated due to cross-voting by some MLAs, in accordance with Rule 75(4) of Conduct of Election Rules, 1961. Singhvi criticized BJP's "new India" philosophy. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/vzxBq5d

Woman in Arabic-script dress saved from mob in Pakistan

Prompt police intervention saved a young girl in an Arabic calligraphy dress from a mob in Lahore’s busy Ichra Bazaar on Sunday. The mob had accused her of blasphemy. The situation turned ugly as more than 300 people forced the woman into a nearby restaurant and demanded she remove the dress. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/W8qd7ZB

Trio found dead in J&K’s Chenani, probe launched

Three workers at a transmission tower in Chenani of Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district were found dead under suspicious circumstances in a tent on Monday morning. Police launched a probe to determine the cause of the deaths. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/W8qd7ZB

Can't let people down, will fight from Bharuch: Ahmed Patel's son

Faisal Patel, son of late Congress stalwart Ahmed Patel, plans to contest the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Bharuch constituency to protect the seat emotionally connected to his family. Despite the Congress-Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alliance, he wants to prevent the Arvind Kejriwal outfit from acquiring the seat in Gujarat. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/azwGqX1

Congress 'betrayed' people for progress of 'one family': PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Sudarshan Setu, the longest cable-stayed bridge in India, in Dwarka, Gujarat. He used the occasion to highlight the country's progress over the past decade and criticize the Congress party for their alleged betrayal of the people's trust. PM Modi emphasized the end of corruption and scams worth thousands of crores that were prevalent during the Congress era. The 2.32km bridge connects Okha with Beyt Dwarka island. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/azwGqX1

FIR before autopsy of deceased: Kin, farm unions firm on demand

The family of Shubhkaran Singh, a 22-year-old farmer from Punjab, who tragically lost his life during the 'Delhi Chalo' protests at Khanauri border point on February 21, remains steadfast in their demand for an FIR against Haryana Police and the state's Home Minister Anil Vij. They have insisted on this before allowing government doctors to conduct the autopsy, which is scheduled for Saturday. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/C1FZyiG

Many NC leaders in Jammu join BJP

A senior National Congress leader, a former J&K MLC and dozens of Pahari activists joined BJP in Jammu Saturday. Prominent among them is Syed Mohd Rafiq Shah. In 2019, he had joined National Conference in 2019 after snapping ties with National Panthers Party. Pahari leader Mohd Ayub Pahalwan has also joined BJP along with his supporters. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/C1FZyiG

Narco-terror case: J&K police file 4th chargesheet in a week

The Jammu and Kashmir Police's State Investigation Agency (SIA) has filed an additional chargesheet against six more individuals in a case related to narco-terrorism. This marks the fourth chargesheet filed in just one week, bringing the total number of accused to 18. According to the police, there has been a decline in terrorist activities in the region, but terrorist handlers from across the border are resorting to drug smuggling to fund their operations. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/19Q5LPp

Supreme Court prodding triggered tweak in surrogacy law

The Supreme Court has played a crucial role in prompting the Centre to revise the surrogacy rules, allowing the use of donor gametes. Over two dozen petitioners have been granted permission to utilize donor eggs, leading to an influx of petitions from women across the country. The court has also identified an issue with Rule 7 of the Act, implemented on March 14, 2020, and has provided relief to a woman based on this finding. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/TAzntrM

US health authority warns users about this feature in smartwatches

The US FDA warns about risks of using unauthorised smartwatches or smart rings claiming to measure blood glucose levels without piercing the skin. Inaccurate measurements can lead to errors in diabetes management and dangerous low glucose levels. The agency is cracking down on illegal marketing. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/TAzntrM

Chief of Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind Halal Trust interrogated by up police STF

Mahmood Madani, Chief of Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind Halal Trust, was interrogated by the STF in Lucknow for over six hours regarding fraudulent halal certificates. The Halal Council of India, involved in unlawful activities, lacks accreditation and issues certificates without verification. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/ViG7dwg

Nitish planning to dissolve assembly: Tejashwi

Tejashwai Prasad Yadav alleges CM Nitish Kumar plans to dissolve the Bihar assembly and conduct assembly elections along with Lok Sabha polls. He believes this move would harm JD(U), BJP and their alliance. He also claims Nitish would lose the assembly elections and defeat Narendra Modi in the Lok Sabha polls. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/ViG7dwg

Shiv Sena MP bags Sansad Ratna award

Dr Shrikant Eknath Shinde, Shiv Sena MP from Kalyan, received the Sansad Ratna award at Maharashtra Sadan in New Delhi for his active participation in 17th Lok Sabha proceedings. He raised 556 questions, participated in 67 discussions, and works tirelessly for the betterment of his constituency. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/ViG7dwg

U-turn on farm procurement proposal surprises govt

Farmers' union opposes govt's proposal for procurement of pulses, maize, and cotton. Punjab and Haryana face water table issues due to paddy cultivation. Lack of pulse procurement leads to spending on imports. Ecosystem affected without cotton procurement. NCCF and Nafed to implement the proposed scheme. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/tz9mq8Y

Article 370’s removal erases dynasty politics hurdles in J&K: Modi

PM Modi launched over 220 projects worth Rs 32,000 crore in J&K, broadening its prospects for development and peace. He highlighted the transformation in J&K since the removal of Article 370, focusing on education, social justice, tourism, and infrastructure boost. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/tz9mq8Y

Tribal outfit’s call to skip work paralyses offices in Manipur dist

Govt offices in Manipur's Churachandpur district had low attendance due to ITLF's appeal. A head constable was suspended after a viral video. A mob attacked the DC and SP office resulting in casualties. Work came to a standstill in public works, fishery, agriculture, and forest departments. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/y9hGD2R

How Russia-Ukraine war is boosting US economy, defense industry

India faces criticism for profiting from Ukraine war through purchasing Russian oil. The US economy benefits from the war, with defense contractors like Lockheed Martin seeing gains. Global defense spending has increased, and there is a shift towards strengthening defense collaborations. The USA’s arms exports grew by 14 per cent between 2013–17 and 2018–22 and its share of total global arms exports rose from 33 per cent to 40 per cent. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/y9hGD2R

PM Modi meets CMs of BJP-ruled states ahead of LS polls

In a meeting at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed ways to strengthen the growth of BJP-ruled states. He emphasized the importance of leveraging a double engine of growth to build a developed India. Chief ministers and deputy chief ministers from these states were present. BJP national president JP Nadda also attended the meeting. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/X0M2dgh

Does a Canadian lake hold the secret to how life originated on Earth?

Life on Earth may have originated in volcanic lakes rather than in oceans, according to a study published in the journal Nature. Researchers studying Last Chance Lake in British Columbia have found evidence suggesting that ancient carbonate-rich lakes could have been the "cradle of life." This discovery challenges the widely held belief that life first emerged in the ocean. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/X0M2dgh

4 women among 10 killed in TN firecracker factory blast

An explosion at a firecracker unit in Ramuthevanpatti, Virudhunagar, caused by friction while mixing chemicals, killed 10 workers and injured 3. CM M K Stalin announced a solatium. Alangulam police are investigating. The collector plans to order permanent closure of units with violations. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/fPoDjEh

Mob outrage triggers fresh Manipur violence, toll hits 2

Two deaths and injuries to around 25 civilians in retaliatory firing by security forces on a mob that stormed the offices of Churachandpur's DC and SP late on Thursday plunged the Manipur district back into turmoil, with the administration clamping an internet blackout for five days, prohibiting gatherings and seeking reinforcements. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/R5BuMGH

Why K'taka's oppn leader has accused Infosys of 'betrayal at its best'

Karnataka BJP MLA Arvind Bellad criticizes Infosys for acquiring land at a lower price, promising job creation but failing to deliver. He demands that the government reclaim the land. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/R5BuMGH

'Unconstitutional, arbitrary': Supreme Court junks electoral bonds 5-0

The Supreme Court on Thursday declared the electoral bond scheme introduced by the BJP government in 2018 that allowed large-scale anonymous corporate contributions to political parties unconstitutional, ordering State Bank of India to immediately cease issuing bonds and provide up-to-date details of such contributions since April 2019 for publication on the Election Commission's website by March 13. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/PRWnsxq

Not a politician, says Mimi, quits as TMC MP, won't run again

Mimi Chakraborty, a Bengali actor and legislator, resigned as a Trinamool MP on Thursday, stating that "politics is not my cup of tea". She is one of four TMC MPs from Tinsel Town, along with Nusrat Jahan, Dev, and Satabdi Roy. The MP for Jadavpur constituency had faced criticism from local leaders regarding the progress of development work in the area. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/PRWnsxq

Sonia's emotional letter to voters hints at Priyanka Gandhi's debut

Former Congress President Sonia Gandhi wrote an emotional letter to the people of her Lok Sabha seat Rae Bareli on Thursday, a day after filing her candidacy for Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan, explaining her inability to run for election owing to health issues. The letter triggered speculation that her daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra could contest upcoming LS elections. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/PRWnsxq

Farooq rules out NC alliance with Cong, but Omar says talks are on

The National Conference's decision to go it alone in J&K and Ladakh startled Congress, which had been assured of the ally's commitment to the INDIA bloc following a meeting this week, and even rejected a stray warning from sources about Abdullah's reluctance to join forces. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's reaction to Farooq Abdullah's shocker insinuated extraneous pressure on NC. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/PRWnsxq

Chavan, Nadda, Vaishnaw for RS, seven mantris not renominated

Union ministers Dharmendra Pradhan, Bhupender Yadav, Mansukhbhai Mandaviya, Parshottam Rupala, and Rajeev Chandrasekhar were not re-nominated to Rajya Sabha. Speculation is that they may be asked to contest Lok Sabha elections. BJP has released a list of candidates including Jagat Prakash Nadda. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/k2A1DXB

AAP announces LS candidates for South Goa and 2 Guj seats

Congress claims Bharuch seat is emotional for them as Ahmed Patel used to contest from there. Pathak countered the claim stating that Congress hasn't won the seat in 40 years. He emphasized the need to focus on defeating the BJP and not nepotism. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/3OH7red

TN guv refuses to read out address to House; leaves before nat'l anthem

Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi greeted the members in Tamil and read out a couplet of Thirukkural in his address before expressing his inability to read the speech due to misleading claims. Ravi delivered a three-minute speech and then released a press release from Raj Bhavan stating that the government's traditional message "contained numerous passages with misleading claims and facts". Via Times of India https://ift.tt/owenGbU

No name for Pak PM yet; major pol players continue talks to form govt

Pakistan's top political leaders have yet to finalise the name of the country's new prime minister, despite negotiations lasting four days following the contentious national and provincial elections, which are widely seen as the most rigged in Pakistan's history. Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) followers, however, want to see their jailed party chief, Imran Khan, back in office. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/owenGbU

With rising incomes, tier 2, 3 cities driving demand for int'l education

There is increasing demand for overseas education from tier 2 cities in India due to higher incomes and improved access to information. The limited capacity of Indian education to meet this demand results in significant foreign exchange losses. The availability of post-study work visas plays a crucial role in attracting Indian students to the UK. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/owenGbU

Road not repaired for 15 years, village kids won't go to school

Upset that a road in their area hadn’t been repaired for almost 15 years, parents of school-going children at Bilkhora village in UP’s Hathras district have stopped sending their kids to school and started staging a protest in front of the school building, demanding “urgent repairs” of the 2.5km-long stretch. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/uYCDyHj

Madhya Pradesh HC slams 'fashion' of demolishing houses

It has become “fashionable” for authorities to tear down any house without adhering to “principles of natural justice”, Indore bench of Madhya Pradesh HC has observed, ordering a compensation of Rs 1 lakh each to two petitioners whose homes were bulldozed by Ujjain Municipal Corporation. Justice Vivek Rusia noted the illegality of the act, carried out in Sandipini Nagar on Dec 13, 2023, without serving prior notice to petitioners Radha Langri and Vimal Gurjar or giving them opportunity for a hearing. They approached HC following the demolition. Rusia also ordered disciplinary action against erring officers. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/uYCDyHj

Google CEO Sundar Pichai starts his day by visiting this website

Google CEO Sundar Pichai has shared his unique morning routine, revealing that he doesn't begin his day with traditional news outlets like The Wall Street Journal or The New York Times. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/uYCDyHj

Centre launches 'Venture Capital Fund' for tribal entrepreneurs

President Droupadi Murmu launched the 'Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Tribes' at the inaugural ceremony of the tribal festival 'Aadi Mahotsav'. She emphasized the importance of tribal lifestyle in living in harmony with nature and highlighted the need to preserve traditional knowledge and use technology for sustainable development. The portal for applicants is now open Via Times of India https://ift.tt/BlV672X

Survival chance 22% if CPR given in a minute: Study

Administering CPR within a minute of cardiac arrest increases the chances of survival to 22%, compared to only 1% if CPR is given after 39 minutes. It also shows that a longer resuscitation period may not necessarily be more beneficial. Experts emphasize the importance of CPR training. Mohit Gupta, professor, highlights the need to train people to perform CPR. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/SBi6T2c

Punjab migrant injured in Wed's Srinagar attack passes away

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/sM6o2Am

Restrictions imposed on internet, gatherings in Poonch-Rajouri

Jammu deputy commissioner imposes restrictions on posting/sharing content on social media and news portals. Violation may lead to punitive action under IPC section 188. ST status granted to multiple communities. Internet services were suspended in the Poonch and Rajouri till 11:30 pm Wednesday, under the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules, 2017. The restrictions are also imposed on social media. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/cPYNtaC

Srinagar: Shopkeeper shot dead, first targeted killing of 2024

Suspected terrorists of The Resistance Force fatally shot a Sikh shopkeeper, Amritpal Singh-- dry fruit seller at Habba Kadal, in Srinagar city. The attack, carried out with an AK-47 assault rifle, also wounded his friend. This marks the first targeted killing in 2024 and the first attack on non-Kashmiris this year. A manhunt has been launched to capture the attackers. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/cPYNtaC

Where should booze shops be located? SC clears ambiguity

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Ozt2ga9

Amid Manipur unrest, govt to seal Myanmar border

The government decided to fence the entire 1,643-km Indo-Myanmar border, home minister Amit Shah said citing the Modi govt’s commitment to making the country’s borders “impenetrable”. Shah’s declaration, made on X, signals the imminent end of the free movement regime (FMR) with Myanmar, which allows tribes living along the border on either side visa-free travel up to 16km inside the neighbouring country. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Ozt2ga9

14 of SP's 108 MLAs oppose hailing PM, Yogi on temple issue

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Ozt2ga9

Pakistan’s largest national, provincial polls on Thursday

Pakistan is all set to vote for the new government on Thursday amid the tight security and former PM Imran Khan being sent to jail. Many observers see this election as a referendum on the military’s role in politics. The run-up to the polls saw Khan being sentenced to jail, while his arch-rival, Nawaz Sharif returned and emerged as a leading contender again. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Ozt2ga9

Terrorists kill 10 cops ahead of Pakistan polls

A terrorist assault targeted a police station in the Dera Ismail Khan district of Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province on Monday morning, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 10 officers' lives and injuring six others. This incident occurred just three days prior to the national elections scheduled for February 8. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/GFgIT2y

Pregnant Ranthambore tiger dies

On Sunday, the carcass of tigress T-60 was found in the Nakka Gudda Forest area of Ranthambore National Park (RNP) in Rajasthan. According to the forest department, the tigress succumbed to complications associated with pregnancy. Tigress T-60, also known as Junior Indu, was the offspring of tigress T-31, and the mother of T-99, Aishwarya, which delivered a stillborn cub on Saturday morning. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/ZboMcvR

Nuclear power on moon: Nasa wraps up 1st phase

NASA is making strides toward its goal of establishing nuclear power on the moon by 2030. In a recent announcement, the agency stated that it is concluding the initial phase of the project, known as the Fission Surface Power Project. This endeavor holds great importance as NASA aims to establish a long-term human presence on the moon and eventually extend missions to Mars. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/ZboMcvR

Nitish keeps home ministry, deputy CM Choudhary gets finance

Approximately a week following the formation of the NDA government in Bihar on January 28th, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar allocated portfolios among the eight ministers on Saturday. He chose to retain key responsibilities including home affairs, general administration, cabinet secretariat, vigilance, and the election departments. Eight ministers, apart from the chief minister , had taken oath on Jan 28. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/lcJrNB0

Army troops spot suspicious movement along LoC, open fire

Alert Army troops responded to suspicious activity observed along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Sabra Gali area of Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, by initiating gunfire early Saturday. An official reported, "The firing occurred in a forward village in the snow-covered Mendhar region. A comprehensive search operation is currently in progress." Via Times of India https://ift.tt/lcJrNB0

Assam may borrow from Uttarakhand's UCC model: CM Himanta

As Assam prepares to introduce a standalone anti-polygamy Bill during the upcoming budget session of the assembly, scheduled to commence next week, the state is also considering the possibility of adopting an all-inclusive Uniform Civil Code (UCC) drafted by Uttarakhand. A five-member committee submitted a draft code to Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/zLemCNO

British MP slams BBC's Ram Mandir coverage

British MP Bob Blackman criticized the BBC's coverage of the consecration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Speaking in the House of Commons, he expressed disappointment with the BBC for reporting the event as the destruction of a mosque, overlooking its historical status as a temple for over 2,000 years. Blackman called for a debate on the BBC's impartiality and its failure to accurately represent global events. He highlighted the need for a fair record of occurrences worldwide. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/zLemCNO

Poonam Pandey's demise: Sambhavna Seth expresses shock

Poonam Pandey's team confirmed her death due to cervical cancer at the age of 32. Fans and the industry are in disbelief over the news. Sambhavna Seth, who worked with Poonam, hopes it's untrue and questions why nobody knew about her cancer. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/zLemCNO

Cops bring back runaway groom in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/j4Jn8sw

After a dozen orders in Gyanvapi case, district judge retires

The court verdict allows worship of Shringar Gauri and other Hindu deities inside Gyanvapi Masjid. Varanasi district judge Ajaya Krishna Vishvesha, who handled the Shringar Gauri case, issued over a dozen orders related to the disputed site. Vishvesha directed ASI to survey the Gyanvapi compound, revealing that a Hindu temple existed where the masjid stands. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/j4Jn8sw

Indian student found dead in US, third incident in a week

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/j4Jn8sw