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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.