Sports
Users Mourn OpenAI's Retirement of GPT-4o as Emotional Companion
OpenAI retired access to the GPT-4o model in ChatGPT, sparking intense mourning among users who viewed it as an affectionate emotional or romantic companion. The decision followed August 2025 backlash leading to temporary reinstatement for paid users. A Change.org petition gained over 20,000 signatures, with research showing many treated it as more than a tool. Chinese users organized grievances despite VPN access. Developers retain base multimodal API access, but users find replacements inferior.
Sports
Suryakumar Praises Ishan Kishan for Taking Responsibility in Pakistan Win
India captain Suryakumar Yadav lauded Ishan Kishan for "amazingly taking responsibility" with 77 off 40 balls after an early wicket in their 61-run T20 World Cup victory over Pakistan at Colombo. He commended the middle order recovery and bowlers like Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah for clinical execution on a spin-friendly pitch. The win, India's eighth in nine T20 WC meetings against Pakistan, secured Super 8s qualification.
Sports
Tendulkar Praises Power Play as Key in India's 61-Run Win Over Pakistan
Sachin Tendulkar highlighted the power play as the decisive phase where India seized control in their 61-run victory over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2026 at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Ishan Kishan's explosive 77 off 40 balls anchored India's 176, while clinical bowling from Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakravarthy restricted Pakistan to 114. Tendulkar commended the all-round performance, noting India were always in the driver's seat.
World, Specials
Khawaja Asif Likens Pakistan to America's 'Disposable Toilet Paper' Ally
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif described US-Pakistan relations as treating Pakistan "worse than toilet paper," emphasizing a historical pattern where the US uses Pakistan for strategic goals and discards it afterward. The metaphor highlights transactional alliances from the Cold War to Afghanistan wars, with Pakistan bearing costs like radicalization, refugees, and terrorism while gaining short-term aid. Asif's remarks reflect frustration over lack of reciprocity and Pakistan's desperation driven by India rivalry, perpetuating cycles of servitude in bilateral ties.
Sports
India Defeat Pakistan by 61 Runs to Qualify for Super 8s in T20 World Cup
India secured a commanding 61-run victory over Pakistan in their Group stage match at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, on February 15, 2026, batting first to post 176 before bowling Pakistan out for 114. Ishan Kishan's aggressive 77 off 40 balls anchored the innings on a spin-friendly pitch, while disciplined bowling from Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakravarthy dismantled the opposition. The win, India's eighth in nine T20 World Cup meetings against Pakistan, confirmed their progression to the Super 8s stage.
Sports
India Defeat Pakistan by 61 Runs to Qualify for Super 8s in T20 World Cup
India secured a commanding 61-run victory over Pakistan in their Group stage match at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, on February 15, 2026, batting first to post 176 before bowling Pakistan out for 114. Ishan Kishan's aggressive 77 off 40 balls anchored the innings on a spin-friendly pitch, while disciplined bowling from Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakravarthy dismantled the opposition. The win, India's eighth in nine T20 World Cup meetings against Pakistan, confirmed their progression to the Super 8s stage.
India
Amit Shah Slams Rahul Gandhi for Misleading Farmers on US Trade Deal
Union Home Minister Amit Shah strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi for spreading misinformation about the India-US trade deal, accusing him of misleading farmers and creating unnecessary panic. Shah asserted that the deal fully protects sensitive sectors like agriculture and dairy with no concessions given. He emphasized that the agreement is beneficial for Indian exports and farmer incomes. The sharp exchange highlights the political battle over the trade deal ahead of upcoming elections.
India
Rahul Gandhi Raises Concerns Over US Trade Deal Impact on Indian Farmers
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the India-US trade deal in Parliament, warning that reduced tariffs on US agricultural imports could severely harm Indian farmers, particularly in dairy and poultry sectors. He argued the agreement favors US interests and threatens livelihoods of millions of small farmers. The government defended the deal as balanced with safeguards for sensitive sectors. The debate intensified political discourse on trade liberalization versus farmer protection ahead of key state elections.
Sports
New Zealand Defeat South Africa by 7 Wickets in T20 World Cup Group D
New Zealand chased down South Africa's 168/6 with 7 wickets and 11 balls to spare in the T20 World Cup Group D match at Wankhede on February 13, 2026. Devon Conway's unbeaten 72 off 48 and Daryl Mitchell's 45 off 28 were key in the successful chase. Trent Boult's 3/22 and Mitchell Santner's 2/18 restricted South Africa after a strong start. The win gave New Zealand 2 points and a solid net run rate in a competitive group.
Sports
England Dominate Scotland by 68 Runs in T20 World Cup Group C
England posted 204/5 in 20 overs, led by Jos Buttler's explosive 82 off 48 balls and Harry Brook's quickfire 45, before bowling Scotland out for 136 in 18.3 overs to win by 68 runs at Pallekele on February 13, 2026. Adil Rashid's 3/18 and Jofra Archer's 2/22 were key in the chase. The victory gave England 2 points and a strong net run rate boost in Group C, showcasing their batting depth and bowling variety against associate opposition in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2025-26.
Sports
Italy Stun Nepal with Historic 10-Wicket T20 World Cup Victory
Italy achieved a landmark first T20 World Cup win in Group C at Wankhede on February 12, 2026, bowling Nepal out for 123 and chasing 124/0 in 12.4 overs for a 10-wicket triumph with 44 balls remaining. Crishan Kalugamage's 3/18 was Player of the Match as Nepal collapsed from 93/3. The Mosca brothers—Anthony (62* off 32) and Justin (60* off 44)—shared an unbroken 124-run stand, marking a memorable associate breakthrough.
Sports
Sri Lanka Thrash Oman by 105 Runs in T20 World Cup Group B Opener
Sri Lanka posted a commanding 225/5 after Oman elected to field, with Pavan Rathnayake's explosive 60 off 28 balls earning Player of the Match and Dasun Shanaka smashing 50 off 20. Oman were bowled out for 120/9 in reply, with Maheesh Theekshana (2/11) and Dushmantha Chameera (2/19) leading a disciplined attack. The 105-run victory gave Sri Lanka 2 points and a significant net run rate boost in Group B of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2025-26 at Pallekele on February 12, 2026.
Sports
Italy Stun Nepal with Historic 10-Wicket T20 World Cup Victory
Italy achieved a landmark first T20 World Cup win in Group C at Wankhede on February 12, 2026, bowling Nepal out for 123 and chasing 124/0 in 12.4 overs for a 10-wicket triumph with 44 balls remaining. Crishan Kalugamage's 3/18 was Player of the Match as Nepal collapsed from 93/3. The Mosca brothers—Anthony (62* off 32) and Justin (60* off 44)—shared an unbroken 124-run stand, marking a memorable associate breakthrough.
Sports
Sri Lanka Thrash Oman by 105 Runs in T20 World Cup
Sri Lanka kicked off their T20 World Cup 2025-26 campaign with a dominant 105-run victory over Oman at Pallekele on February 12, posting 225/5 after being invited to bat and then restricting Oman to 120/9. Pavan Rathnayake's explosive 60 off 28 balls earned Player of the Match, while Dasun Shanaka smashed 50 off 20. Maheesh Theekshana (2/11) and Dushmantha Chameera (2/19) led a disciplined bowling effort. The comprehensive win gave Sri Lanka 2 points and a strong net run rate boost in Group B.
Science & Tech
Govt Directives for AI Deepfake Labeling and Takedown on Platforms
The Indian IT Ministry issued revised guidelines mandating platforms like Instagram and YouTube to label AI-generated content and embed identifiers to curb deepfakes. Flagged synthetic content must be removed within three hours of government or court orders. Automated tools are required to detect illegal, exploitative, or deceptive AI material. Platforms must notify users quarterly about AI misuse consequences and prohibit label removal.
India, Specials
Govt Spent Barely 40% of Budget on Biggest Schemes in 9 Months
The Indian government has released only 41.2% of the budgeted funds for its 53 major schemes (each with Rs 500 crore or more allocation) in the first nine months of FY26, totaling just over Rs 2 lakh crore. This low spending, expected to remain under 75% by year-end, affects key programs like rural employment and water missions. The article highlights downward revisions and stark disparities in actual vs allocated expenditures.
India
India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-3 Ballistic Missile
India conducted a successful test of the Agni-3 intermediate-range ballistic missile on February 6, 2026, from Chandipur, Odisha, validating all parameters under Strategic Forces Command. The 3,000 km range missile strengthens nuclear deterrence capabilities within the Agni series. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the launch met objectives, highlighting reliability and readiness of the indigenous system.
World
DHS 'Worst of the Worst' List Includes 89 Indian Offenders
US DHS launched a public database listing 25,000+ arrested immigrants as "worst of the worst" criminals, including 89 Indians convicted of drug, sexual, violent, and financial offenses. The searchable site features names, mugshots, crimes, and locations to promote transparency under Trump enforcement. Critics argue it reinforces stereotypes without context, while DHS emphasizes focusing on serious offenders for public reassurance.
World
BNP's 'Bangladesh First' Manifesto Signals Neutrality on India
Ahead of February 12, 2026 elections, BNP leader Tarique Rahman unveiled a "Bangladesh First" manifesto pledging non-alignment with India or Pakistan, strict border measures, and minority protections amid strained ties under Yunus. Jamaat's manifesto promises "peaceful" India relations but prioritizes Muslim nations, omitting Pakistan. With BNP and Jamaat neck-and-neck in polls, the election could reshape India's regional influence amid rising anti-India sentiment and Hindu attacks.
India
75 Years of Tawang's Peaceful Integration into India
2026 marks 75 years since Major Ralengnao "Bob" Khathing led a peaceful expedition to Tawang, hoisting the Indian flag on February 14, 1951, and integrating the region without conflict. Amid China's Tibet annexation, the mission extended administration while assuring locals of religious freedom. Khathing's diplomacy with Monpa leaders and the monastery preserved traditions. The event highlights India's frontier unification strategy in the Northeast.
India
Mayawati Demands Ban and FIR on Netflix Series 'Ghooskhor Pandat'
BSP chief Mayawati has strongly condemned the upcoming Netflix series Ghooskhor Pandat starring Manoj Bajpayee, calling it casteist and insulting to Brahmins by portraying "Pandits" as corrupt bribe-takers. She demanded an immediate Central government ban and FIR against the makers. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath ordered an FIR under multiple sections for promoting enmity and outraging religious sentiments. The controversy escalated with a Delhi High Court petition and NHRC notice, prompting filmmakers to withdraw promos while clarifying the title refers to a fictional character.
Finance
Google Crosses $400 Billion Annual Revenue on AI Wave
Alphabet's Q4 revenue reached $113.8 billion (18% YoY growth), pushing 2025 annual revenue over $400 billion for the first time. Google Cloud surged 48% to $17.7 billion, driven by AI infrastructure demand. Gemini app has 750M+ monthly users, with API processing 10B+ tokens/minute and costs down 78%. CEO Sundar Pichai highlighted AI enhancing search, cloud margins, and subscriptions (325M+ users). 2026 capex planned at $175-185 billion for AI investments.
Lifestyle
Gen Z-Millennial IQ Debate: Is Gen Z the First Generation Not Smarter Than Parents?
Recent studies suggest Gen Z may be the first generation since the late 19th century to score lower than parents in IQ, attention, memory, and problem-solving, reversing the Flynn Effect. Experts attribute this to digital technology reshaping cognition—externalized memory, shorter attention spans—but argue Gen Z excels in cognitive flexibility, pattern recognition, and adaptation. The debate questions traditional intelligence metrics amid evolving environments.
India
Samay Raina Jokes on Free Speech Differences Between India and US
Comedian Samay Raina, in an exclusive interview, humorously contrasted comedy consequences: in India, police take the comic (referring to his 2025 controversy), while in the US, they take the audience. Discussing his show Still Alive at Madison Square Garden, he explained the title reflects surviving backlash from India's Got Latent. Raina expressed caution joking about Trump on artist visa, highlighting free speech nuances across countries.
Lifestyle
Australian Man Amazed by Hoysala Temple's Ancient 'Telescope' Carving
Australian travel vlogger Liam Richards visited a 600-year-old Hoysala temple in Karnataka and shared a viral video claiming a stone carving depicts a telescope, predating its official invention in 1608 by centuries. He expressed awe at the temple's over 20,000 intricate carvings and detailed craftsmanship, calling it "beyond comprehension" and "crazy." The video sparked discussions celebrating India's advanced ancient knowledge, with users declaring Hoysala temples as potential wonders of the world.
Lifestyle
Bengaluru Techie Creates AI Tool for Wedding Buffet Choices
Bengaluru software professional Pankaj built BuffetGPT, an AI agent using computer vision to scan wedding buffets and generate personalized "game plans" optimizing dishes to eat, skip, and portions based on "stomach volume physics." Inspired by regretting choices at Indian weddings, the alpha version tested at a friend's event yielded decent results. Shared on X, it went viral with praise for practical innovation and humorous suggestions like adding caterer ratings.
Lifestyle
UK Man Praises Delhi Metro as Better Than London Underground
UK travel vlogger Rory Porter filmed his first Delhi Metro ride, marveling at its affordability (just 43 rupees for a half-hour journey), cleanliness, modern facilities, air-conditioning, and lack of overcrowding. He declared it "better than London" and one of the best metros worldwide, highlighting efficient security and pleasant interiors. The viral video contrasts it favorably with the London Underground, earning appreciation for showcasing India's public transport positively.
Lifestyle
Train Passenger's Witty Reply to Volume Request Goes Viral
A man on an Indian Railways train asked a fellow passenger to lower the volume of loud bhajans at 6 am, only to receive the reply: "Beta, bhajan to sunne chahiye" (Son, bhajans are meant to be listened to). The stunned man shared a video of the blasting speaker causing phone vibrations, highlighting the humorous yet frustrating exchange. Posted on r/IndianRailways, it sparked debates on civic sense in public spaces, with users sharing similar experiences and sarcastic suggestions.
Lifestyle
Brother Flies from Canada to Surprise Sister at Her Wedding
A brother traveled from Canada to India to surprise his elder sister ahead of her wedding, capturing an emotional reunion in a viral Instagram video. The bride-to-be enters a room full of cheering friends and family, initially unaware, until she spots her brother and rushes into a tearful embrace amid applause. The heartfelt moment highlights sibling bonds filled with arguments yet deep comfort and love. Posted by meeett_irl, it touched viewers, sparking comments on family emotions and wedding joy.
Lifestyle
US Woman Goes Viral Thanking Indians for Dupatta Invention
A US woman named Kemi posted a viral Instagram video enthusiastically thanking Indians for inventing the dupatta, praising its versatile draping style that elevates outfits "ten times better." She incorporates it into her fashion, showcasing cross-cultural appreciation. The video sparked positive reactions celebrating global adoption of Indian garments while noting the dupatta's elegant yet complex history. It highlights joyful cultural exchange in modern fashion.
Specials
Top 10 Richest Donating Half Wealth: Impact on Global Poverty and Healthcare
If the world's top 10 billionaires donated half their wealth—totaling around $1.25 trillion—it could fund global extreme poverty reduction efforts for nearly four years, significantly boost climate adaptation, pandemic preparedness, and healthcare access in developing nations. However, challenges like illiquid assets, institutional absorption limits, and governance issues would constrain real-world impact. The hypothetical draws from studies on cash transfers, nutrition programs, and billionaire philanthropy trends.
India
India's Map in US Trade Deal Includes PoK and Aksai Chin
The India-US trade deal documents feature India's official map depicting Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh including PoK and Aksai Chin as integral territories, consistent with parliamentary resolutions. This inclusion amid the agreement's tariff reductions and concessions underscores India's firm stance on sovereignty. Pakistan protested the depiction, while China remained silent. The map's presence in bilateral pacts reinforces India's position without direct controversy in negotiations focused on economic terms.
Specials
Gen Z in India Prioritizes Mental Health Over Traditional Ambition
India's Gen Z is redefining success by valuing mental health, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment over relentless career climbing and material wealth. Surveys show many prefer flexible jobs, side hustles, and therapy over high-pressure corporate roles. Influenced by global trends, social media awareness, and post-pandemic burnout, they seek meaningful experiences, financial stability without sacrifice, and boundaries like "quiet quitting." This shift challenges traditional expectations while highlighting evolving priorities in a competitive economy.
Entertainment
Disturbing Teasers: Bollywood's Shift to Toxic Cinematic Language
Bollywood teasers have evolved from subtle hints to aggressive, disturbing showcases of blood, rage, violence, and humiliation to grab attention in a crowded market. Films like Dhurandhar and Toxic employ upfront brutality and provocation for virality, while Assi uses discomfort purposefully. Experts note this reflects youth preferences for raw realism post-pandemic exposure to global content, with liberal censor certifications enabling extreme imagery. The trend risks desensitization but serves marketing through controversy and conversations.
India
PM Modi Strengthens India-Malaysia Ties in Kuala Lumpur Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Kuala Lumpur, his first foreign trip of 2026, focused on elevating the comprehensive strategic partnership with Malaysia. Key outcomes include the upcoming launch of India's UPI digital payments system, extended OCI Card eligibility for Malaysian Indians up to the sixth generation, scholarships, and diaspora programs. Modi and Anwar Ibrahim emphasized shared cultural links, with a grand performance by 800 dancers. The visit featured warm personal gestures and delegation talks on extradition and cooperation in energy, trade, and defence.
India
India-US Trade Deal Reduces Tariffs to 18%, Effective Immediately
The India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement slashes US tariffs on Indian imports from 50% to 18%, effective noon February 7, 2026, boosting exports in textiles, pharmaceuticals, gems, and machinery. It eliminates duties on generics, gems/diamonds, aircraft parts, with quotas for autos and reductions on US agri/industrial goods. An interim pact post Russian oil halt, it addresses barriers in medical devices/ICT while promoting tech/digital trade. Formal signing in March follows executive order.
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Movie Reviews
Daldal Review: Bhumi Pednekar Struggles in Formulaic Serial Killer Thriller
The seven-episode series Daldal follows DCP Rita Ferreira (Bhumi Pednekar) investigating ritualistic murders in Mumbai, with the killer revealed early. It starts as a believable police procedural but devolves into contrived elements involving paedophilia, drug abuse, and bizarre plot strands. Strengths include impactful sensitive themes and strong supporting performances; weaknesses dominate with templated storytelling, lack of nuance, and Pednekar's one-note morose portrayal. Rated 2/5, it offers intriguing opening but eye-roll moments later.
Lifestyle
Laid-Off Techie Lands 50% Hike Job in One Month
A data engineer with two years experience, laid off suddenly in December, turned crisis into opportunity by treating job hunt as full-time work—learning missing skills like Python, SQL, PySpark, AWS, Kafka, Airflow through tutorials while applying daily. Tracking interviews in Excel, addressing weaknesses from rejections, he secured a new role with 50% salary hike within a month. His Reddit post on r/developersIndia shares the roadmap, inspiring others facing layoffs with persistence and structured upskilling.
India
The One Number in India-US Trade Deal That Hurt Pakistan's Feelings
Pakistan reacted with disbelief and social media meltdown after the India-US trade deal granted India an 18% tariff rate on exports, lower than Pakistan's 19%, despite Islamabad's efforts to build goodwill with Trump through Nobel nominations and cooperation offers. The deal scrapped a 25% punitive duty on India's Russian oil purchases. Trump's claims of India buying $500 billion US goods and switching to Venezuelan oil remain unconfirmed. India diversified with EU, UK, Oman pacts, highlighting Pakistan's limited leverage.
Lifestyle
IndiGo Passenger's Tripod Jugaad for In-Flight Binge-Watching
An IndiGo passenger ingeniously used a small tripod to mount their smartphone at eye level on the tray table, enabling comfortable hands-free binge-watching of shows or movies during the flight. Captured in viral photos shared on X, the setup turned the economy seat into a personal cinema at 35,000 feet. Reactions praised the practical "jugaad" for avoiding neck pain on flights lacking screens or holders, while some questioned security allowances for tripods. The incident highlights resourceful travel hacks in budget airlines.
Sports
Vaibhav Suryavanshi's 175 Inspired by Coach's WhatsApp Message
Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed a breathtaking 175 with 15 sixes and 15 boundaries in the U19 World Cup final against England, powering India to 411/9 and a 100-run victory for their sixth title. His childhood coach Manish Ojha's WhatsApp message after the semi-final reminded him of his century-scoring standards in tournaments, prompting a simple "Yes sir" reply. The innings showcased maturity, acceleration after a cautious start, and record-breaking dominance, earning praise as potentially ready for senior India cricket.
Lifestyle
Rishikesh as a Hobbiday Destination Beyond Rafting
Rishikesh offers diverse learning experiences beyond rafting and yoga, including pottery workshops, sound healing sessions, aerial yoga, jewellery making, music classes, and handpan lessons. Visitors can engage in short daily workshops or multi-day retreats, embracing a Hobbiday approach to holidays focused on hobbies and personal growth. The town features studios in Tapovan for hands-on activities like crocheting, cooking Pahadi cuisine, and crafting silver pendants, transforming vacations into curiosity-driven journeys without long commitments.
Lifestyle
Omakase: Japanese Trend Conquers Delhi Bars
Omakase, a Japanese concept meaning "I leave it to you," is transforming Delhi's bar scene. Patrons fill forms with preferences like gin-based, sweet-and-sour drinks, and mixologists create bespoke cocktails, such as vodka infused with amla murabba or Parle-G biscuit flavors. This surprise element, rooted in trust, appeals to those weary of choices, offering personalized experiences at bars like Call Me Ten and PCO. It extends from traditional sushi meals to experimental Indian dining, blending global trends with local tastes in cocktail culture.
Lifestyle
Mumbai Woman's Kind Interaction with Flower Girl Goes Viral
Mumbai resident Mahek Shah shared a heartwarming Instagram reel of her conversation with a young girl selling flowers on the road, initially refusing but moved by the girl's warm smile and gesture. The girl offered the flower for any amount, gratefully accepting payment with thanks. Shah, who dislikes flowers for withering quickly, noted the exchange brightened her day and encouraged supporting vendors as small acts bring joy. The video highlights simple kindness restoring faith in humanity amid daily struggles.
Life Style
Goldman Sachs Partners with Anthropic for AI Agents in Finance
Goldman Sachs is collaborating with Anthropic to develop autonomous AI agents using Claude models for tasks like trade accounting, transaction reconciliation, and client onboarding/vetting. The six-month partnership aims to reduce processing time by handling large data volumes and applying rules/judgment. Early results show effectiveness beyond coding in compliance areas. CEO David Solomon plans multi-year AI reorganization with constrained headcount growth. The move reflects broader finance sector adoption of generative AI for efficiency, though job impacts remain a concern.
Tech Reviews
Vivo X300 Ultra Tipped for India Launch with Flagship Specs
Vivo's X300 Ultra is rumored to launch globally, including India, soon after the Chinese Spring Festival ending March 3, 2026. Leaks suggest a 6.82-inch 2K flat LTPO OLED display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, 7,000mAh battery with 100W wired and 40W wireless charging, USB Gen 3.2 Type-C, and IP69 rating. Camera highlights include 200MP primary and periscope telephoto, 50MP ultrawide, 5MP color sensor, and 50MP front. As sequel to China-exclusive X200 Ultra, it promises premium photography and performance. Details remain unconfirmed rumors from tipsters.
Sports
Basit Ali Challenges ICC Over Pakistan's T20 World Cup Boycott
Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has strongly supported the PCB's boycott of the T20 World Cup 2026 match against India, challenging the ICC to impose sanctions while accusing it of bias toward India in past decisions like hybrid Asia Cup and Champions Trophy venues. He cited India's alleged disrespects in Asia Cup 2025, including refusing handshakes and trophy from PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi. Ali argued Pakistan's government-directed stance deserves equal respect, questioning double standards and warning boycotts harm talents but necessary against perceived unfairness.
India
India-US Trade Deal: Joint Statement Expected Next Week
A joint statement on the India-US trade deal is anticipated within the next week, with fine print to be made public thereafter, according to sources. The agreement safeguards India's sensitive sectors like agriculture and dairy, with no investment commitments involved. The first tranche is slated for signing around mid-March, following a US executive order reducing tariffs on Indian goods to 18%. Negotiations, lasting a year, faced delays over red lines but prioritize national interests. Senior US officials visit India soon to finalize details.
Offbeat
Rapido Delivery Boy Shocked by Garbage Package Prank
A woman in India booked Rapido's porter service to send a sealed cardboard box claimed as goods, but instructed the delivery boy to dump it at a garbage heap upon arrival, revealing it contained trash. Karan Nishad, the rider, recorded his shocked laughter, saying, “So this is where we’ve reached - now we’re delivering other people’s trash!” The viral video sparked mixed reactions: humor over the irony of turning delivery into "trash transport," alongside concerns about dignity of labour and courtesy toward gig workers. Discussions highlighted need for respectful usage of services.
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India
India Open to Venezuelan Crude on Commercial Merits, Govt Clarifies
India's Ministry of External Affairs stated the government remains open to exploring commercial merits of any new crude supply options, including Venezuela, prioritizing energy security for 1.4 billion citizens. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted Venezuela's long-standing partnership until sanctions halted imports in 2019-20, with brief resumption in 2023-24. Decisions are guided by market conditions and national interests, without confirming shifts from Russian or Iranian sources. This follows US President Trump's claims of a deal involving Venezuelan oil purchases. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez discussed deepening energy ties with PM Modi.