Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial welcome in Malaysia, marking a key moment in his two-day official visit. Bilateral talks with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim are focusing on defence, economic cooperation, and innovation, aiming to further strengthen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Sonia Gandhi Saturday termed a criminal revision petition against a magisterial order as «politically motivated and frivolous.» The petition alleges her name was included in electoral rolls in 1980 using forged documents, despite her acquiring Indian citizenship later. Gandhi argued citizenship and electoral roll issues fall outside criminal court jurisdiction.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted recent trade agreements with the US and other nations as proof of growing global trust in India. He emphasized the country's shift from a mere market to an investment and trade hub, fostering 'Make in India' and creating jobs. These deals, he stated, reflect a dynamic partnership and commitment to innovation and shared prosperity.

India and the United States have reached an interim trade agreement. This deal is expected to boost India's economic growth and manufacturing sector. Government leaders stated that the agreement safeguards the nation's core interests. It aims to create more jobs and opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and businesses across the country.

Congress criticized the India-US trade deal framework as a «surrender,» citing concerns over unspecified «additional products» for tariff reductions. Leaders argued the deal is heavily tilted towards the US and will negatively impact farmers, highlighting a lack of transparency in the agreement's details.

The US has accused China of a covert nuclear test on June 22, 2020, shortly after the deadly Galwan Valley clash. This allegation, coupled with the expiry of the New START treaty, highlights the urgent need for a new global arms control framework.

Haryana's BJP government faces sharp criticism for allegedly withholding diet allowances for 37,000 players for ten months. Senior AAP leader Anurag Dhanda also highlighted the denial of pensions to over 75,000 elderly citizens, citing «absurd» income criteria. This has left athletes and seniors struggling, questioning the government's commitment to their welfare.

A three-storey building housing a restaurant collapsed in Kota, Rajasthan, killing at least two people and leaving several others feared trapped. Rescue operations are underway, with five individuals already rescued and hospitalized. The incident occurred in the Talwandi area, and authorities are working to ascertain the full extent of casualties.

Kashmiri Shia Muslims held protests across the region condemning a suicide bombing at a mosque in Islamabad. The attack killed over 30 people during Friday prayers. Demonstrations occurred in Srinagar, Baramulla, and Bandipora. Protesters voiced anger against the Pakistani government and expressed solidarity with the victims. Some raised slogans supporting Syed Hassan Nasrallah, Palestine, and Hezbollah.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the strong cultural and emotional ties between India and Malaysia during his interaction with the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur. He praised the community for preserving traditions and acknowledged Malaysia's significant Indian-origin population as a «living bridge.» Modi also emphasised the global importance of the Tamil language and culture.

A significant protest is under way in Rajasthan over the felling of the khejri tree. Communities are demanding stronger protection for the state tree, alleging that it is being cut to make way for solar power projects. Political leaders across parties have joined the movement, drawing attention to the tree’s cultural and ecological significance. In an arid landscape where survival is closely tied to ecology, the debate in western Rajasthan now extends beyond development to questions of history, identity and survival.

A US trade representative's map, released alongside an interim trade agreement framework, correctly depicts the entirety of Jammu and Kashmir and Aksai Chin as part of India. This marks a departure from previous US maps and aligns with India's stance, potentially signaling a shift in US policy towards Pakistan and China.

Sonia Gandhi has opposed a criminal revision petition against her, labelling it politically motivated and an abuse of law. She argued that citizenship and electoral roll matters, dating back four decades, cannot be criminalised. Her response, filed in court, asserts the complainant's accusations are based on speculation, not authentic records, and urges dismissal of the plea.

Opposition leaders are raising concerns over the India-US Interim Trade Agreement. They claim the government has compromised national interests. Worries are focused on the impact on farmers, tariffs, and oil imports. Leaders suggest the deal could lead to unrest as its full implications become clear. The agreement is part of broader trade negotiations.

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh criticized the recent India-US trade framework, alleging it benefits American farmers at India's expense and includes a commitment to stop Russian oil imports. He questioned the value of «photo-ops» given the perceived lack of substantial benefits for India in the deal.

App-based transport workers nationwide protested on February 7, demanding fair incomes and protection against exploitation. Unions cited falling earnings and rising costs, urging governments to implement minimum base fares as mandated by 2025 guidelines. The strike highlighted concerns over unilateral pricing by platforms and financial burdens from device changes, with workers seeking statutory protections.

New rules for the Civil Services Examination will regulate repeated attempts. Candidates appointed to IAS or IFS from CSE 2026 will not be allowed to reappear. Those appointed to IPS or Group A services can get one improvement attempt. The Union Public Service Commission is also adding more examination centres and prioritizing candidates with benchmark disabilities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a significant two-day visit to Malaysia to bolster defense, security, and economic ties. This trip aims to deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with discussions focusing on defense cooperation, innovation, and new collaborative areas. PM Modi will also engage with the vibrant Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur.

Purnea MP Pappu Yadav was arrested by Patna Police in connection with a 1995 case, expressing fears for his safety and demanding to be taken directly to court. He questioned the police's methods and the timing of the arrest. The MP was later admitted to hospital due to health concerns.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi advised students at 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' that education is for life, not just exams, emphasizing character and temperament over grades. He encouraged focusing on future goals rather than dwelling on past achievements, urging them to live in the present and plan for what lies ahead.

The Supreme Court sternly criticized the Jan Suraaj Party for challenging Bihar's assembly elections, questioning their motive after a significant electoral defeat. Justices noted the party's failure to win any seats and suggested their petition aimed at gaining popularity. The court emphasized that economic policy issues are for voters to address, not judicial annulment of elections.

Iran reaffirms its commitment to the Chabahar port and cooperation with India, despite US sanctions uncertainty. While a recent budget showed no allocation, India has fulfilled its $120 million commitment and maintains a $250 million credit line for future development. Iran's ambassador highlighted the port's strategic importance for regional access and expressed confidence in India's management of the situation.

India's exports to China surged 37% to $14.2 billion in April-December, with December shipments jumping 67%. Imports, however, rose 13.5% to nearly $96 billion during the same period. The government highlighted that most Chinese imports are capital and intermediate goods, crucial for India's expanding electronics, pharma, and telecom sectors.

The Supreme Court permitted a minor's pregnancy termination, acknowledging her right to reproductive autonomy and the lifelong trauma of an illegitimate child. Despite the Maharashtra government's concerns about a 30-week fetus's viability and the suggestion of an orphanage, the court prioritized the girl's mental well-being, directing the procedure with medical safeguards.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad has strongly objected to the Netflix film 'Ghooskhor Pandat', deeming its title offensive and an attack on a respected community. The VHP has demanded government intervention, while sources indicate Netflix voluntarily removed the film's teaser and promotional content from social media. The organization warned of protests if an apology isn't issued.