PM Modi in Malaysia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the ‘Salamat Datang Modi Ji’ event in Kuala Lumpur alongside Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim. Modi is on a two-day visit, with bilateral talks scheduled tomorrow, expected to culminate in several MoUs strengthening India-Malaysia ties.

Bastar Pandum Festival

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the Bastar Pandum festival in Jagdalpur, highlighting the tribal community’s vibrant culture. She noted Bastar’s decades-long struggle with Maoism and emphasized how festivals showcase resilience and the celebratory spirit of its people despite ongoing challenges.

India-US Trade Agreement

Prime Minister Modi hailed the framework for an Interim Trade Agreement with the US as a milestone in bilateral relations. He thanked President Donald Trump for his commitment, stressing the agreement reflects growing trust, depth, and dynamism in India-US partnership.

Oil Smuggling Bust

The Indian Coast Guard intercepted three vessels 100 nautical miles west of Mumbai, exposing an international oil smuggling racket. The operation revealed mid-sea transfers from conflict zones, aimed at illegal profits through cheap oil and cargo smuggling via sea-air networks.

Trump’s Arms Policy

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order prioritizing arms sales to nations with higher defense spending. The ‘America First Arms Transfer Strategy’ marks a significant policy shift, aligning US weapons exports with strategic importance and regional defense commitments.

Odisha Economic Corridor

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi unveiled the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradip Economic Corridor under Vision 2047. Covering four districts, the corridor contributes 19% to Odisha’s GDP, with plans to increase its share fifteen-fold by 2047, positioning it as a growth engine.

Pradhan on Workers’ Role

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan addressed the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh’s 21st National Conference in Puri, describing labour welfare as the backbone of nation-building. He emphasized workers’ dignity and their role as the cornerstone of India’s development, aligned with constitutional ideals.

Mahanadi Water Dispute

The tribunal hearing the Mahanadi water dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh has been rescheduled to March 14. A spot visit will be conducted between late February and early March, ahead of proceedings in this long-standing inter-state water conflict.

U-19 World Cup Win

India’s U-19 men’s cricket team defeated England by 100 runs in Harare to clinch their sixth ICC U-19 World Cup crown. The BCCI announced a cash award of ₹7.5 crore for players, staff, and selectors in recognition.

T20 World Cup Begins

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 began today, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan beat the Netherlands in the opening match, while West Indies face Scotland. Defending champions India start their campaign against USA at Wankhede.