MANAV: Human-Centric AI Takes Spotlight at India’s Global Summit
Global leaders, tech CEOs, and policymakers met in New Delhi to advance partnerships, investments, inclusive innovation, and responsible artificial intelligence frameworks.
SC slams freebies culture, says states should open avenues for employment
The Supreme Court criticised the freebies culture, warning it harms economic development and work ethic, while issuing notice on Tamil Nadu’s plea defending its proposal to provide universal free electricity.
From Palace to Police: Prince Andrew arrested on his 66th birthday
Ex‑Prince Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor, stripped of his royal titles over Epstein links, was arrested on his 66th birthday by Thames Valley Police amid allegations of misconduct in public office.
No reason to believe change in India's stance on Russian oil: Russian Foreign Ministry
Russia on Wednesday rejected U.S. claims that India would stop buying Russian crude oil, affirming that New Delhi’s energy policy remains unchanged, guided by national interests and market stability.
India Surreptitiously Adds Its Name to Global Condemnation of Israel’s West Bank Land Grab Plan
On the eve of Trump’s Board of Peace meeting, the UN Security Council condemned Israel’s West Bank expansion, calling it illegal, threatening the two‑state solution, and urging immediate reversal.
Umpire dies, several injured as Bee swarm attacks Cricket match in Unnao
The incident highlights the urgent need for emergency response training and environmental safety audits at sports venues to prevent wildlife-related disasters nationwide.
Gates Drops Out of AI Summit Keynote to Keep Focus on Event’s Core Agenda
The episode highlights growing sensitivity around speaker credibility at global technology forums amid heightened scrutiny of public figures’ past associations.
16 killed in explosion due to suspected gas leakage in Pak’s Karachi
A gas cylinder explosion in Karachi’s Soldier Bazaar killed 16 people, including children, injured 14, destroyed a three‑storey building, prompted rescue operations, and triggered government investigations and safety enforcement calls.
Former SK President Yoon Suk Yeol found guilty in Martial law case, life sentence expected
The verdict may reshape future limits on presidential emergency powers and set a lasting legal precedent for handling political crises in South Korea.
Pakistan issues demarche to Taliban regime over use of Afghan soil for terror attack
Pakistan has summoned the Afghan Taliban over a deadly Bajaur attack that killed 11 soldiers, accusing militants of using Afghan territory as a safe haven and warning of possible cross‑border action.
Hyderabad CP Sajjanar Cautions Public Against Search Engine Fraud
IPS officer V.C. Sajjanar warns that fake, sponsored search results are fueling cyber fraud, identity theft, and massive financial losses.
High Command Hails Revanth’s Governance Drive
Revanth Reddy briefs Congress leadership on Telangana’s welfare progress, economic roadmap, and ambitious plan to build a $3 trillion economy.
3,000-Year-Old Megalithic Dolmen Discovered in Mahabubnagar District
Archaeologists say the stone burial reveals Iron Age rituals, settlement patterns, and highlights urgent conservation needs across Telangana’s vulnerable prehistoric heritage sites.
Kavitha Criticises Congress and BRS, Plans New Political Party Launch in May
Kavitha unveils Telangana-focused platform, eyes Siddipet contest, promotes youth leadership, and positions her movement as a grassroots alternative in state politics.
Telangana to achieve net-zero emissions by 2047: CM Revanth Reddy
City plans carbon audit, Musi rejuvenation, EV expansion, renewable power transition, industrial relocation, and metro growth to cut emissions.
₹8,175-Crore Waaree Gigafactory to Make Andhra Pradesh a Clean Energy Hub
Integrated lithium-ion facility in Rambilli will boost renewable storage, strengthen grid reliability, cut battery imports, create jobs, and accelerate EV adoption.
AP Govt to Issue Fresh DSC Notification, 3,600 Teacher Posts to Be Filled
New recruitment drive aims to strengthen public schools, clear backlog vacancies, improve teacher-student ratios, and expand employment opportunities across Andhra Pradesh.
AP Clears 600+ Acres for Hyperscale AI Data Centres in Visakhapatnam Region
Google-linked project with Adani partnership aims to build massive AI infrastructure hub, generating jobs, demanding huge power, boosting regional economy.
AP: Panchayat Raj Act amended. New voters can register every quarter
AP Assembly unanimously passed Panchayat Raj Amendment Bill 2026, introducing quarterly voter eligibility dates and ensuring a uniform electoral roll system.
AP CM Naidu in Delhi for Global AI Summit, Seeks Tech Partnerships
Chief minister promotes AI investments, quantum research collaborations, and skill training initiatives aimed at transforming Andhra Pradesh into a technology powerhouse.
When the Crescent Moon Calls for Compassion
Can a month of fasting reshape hearts and heal divisions? As Ramadan begins , its message of discipline, compassion, charity and equality invites us all can this sacred season guide the nation toward peace?
The Genetic Blueprint in Your Blood
Using AI to analyze "genetic fingerprints" (epigenetic markers) in a single blood draw allows for the identification of high-risk prediabetes with 90% accuracy. This breakthrough enables personalized, early intervention to prevent type 2 diabetes and its complications, replacing the need for long and complex clinical tests.
MILAN 2026: A milestone in India’s journey from Regional Navy to Maritime power
The exercise is expected to boost coastal tourism, showcase indigenous shipbuilding strength, and stimulate regional economies through logistics demand growth.
Unable to say when I’ll return, barred from leaving UK, Mallya tells Bombay HC
His lawyers told the court that UK legal orders and the passport revocation prevent him from specifying a return date.
ED attaches over Rs 500 crore in US, Singapore accounts in WinZO case
Many users, especially from smaller towns, lost money unknowingly while playing against bots and AI on WinZO.
FIR filed after protest over interfaith romance in ‘Yadav Ji Ki Love Story’ in UP
Protesters claim the film’s interfaith romance hurts Yadav community sentiments and could disturb social harmony.
India’s future as a global leader hinges on unity and strength, says Mohan Bhagwat
The RSS chief expressed confidence in India’s rising global influence while calling for social unity, cultural rootedness and self reliant national development.
Man held for travelling in women’s coach wearing burqa in Mumbai local
Viral video prompts police probe, CCTV trail across multiple stations leads to arrest amid renewed debate over safety and misuse of disguise in public transport.
MP’s largest narcotics bust: CBN seizes nearly 52 kg meth, 260 kg chemicals and equipment
The three day intelligence led operation exposed a fully operational clandestine synthetic drug manufacturing network supplying interstate markets.
Rajasthan social groups demand action over BJP MLA Bahadur Singh’s sexist budget remarks
BJP MLA Bahadur Singh Koli’s ‘boy–girl’ budget remark triggered outrage, political protests and civil society backlash, with demands for apology and disciplinary action, while the BJP leadership remained silent.
Rajasthan Jal Jeevan mission scam: SIT probes ₹900 Cr tender manipulation
The case highlights systemic gaps in tender vetting and raises questions about long-term oversight of flagship rural infrastructure schemes nationwide.
SC grants bail to filmmaker Vikram Bhatt in ₹30-crore investment scam case
The ruling may influence future film-investment disputes by encouraging mediation and highlighting risks of informal financing arrangements in Bollywood sector.
Veteran journalist K Govindan Kutty passes away
Veteran journalist and author K Govindan Kutty passed away in Thiruvananthapuram on February 18 after a brief illness at the age of 81. Known as KGK, he had a distinguished career with leading media organisations such as the Indian Express and India Today, and was widely respected for his deep understanding of Kerala and national politics. He broke several major political stories, including reporting the 1977 air crash involving then Prime Minister Morarji Desai, and early accounts of internal divisions within the CPI(M) in Kerala.
Maharashtra leaders, national figures honour Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and devotees nationwide, paid tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his birth anniversary.
Nagaland inaugurates first women-centric BPO, CM hails milestone for inclusive growth
The BPO will offer IT-enabled jobs and skill-building opportunities exclusively for women, aiming to boost professional growth and financial independence in Nagaland.
New Bangladesh PM Rahman Tarique pledges rule of law, vows protection for minorities
In his first national address, he placed restoring law and order and curbing mob violence at the centre of his government’s immediate agenda.
Nostalgia reloaded: ‘Hannah Montana’ anniversary special set for March 2026
Merchandise, fashion collaborations, and soundtrack vinyl reissues are expected to accompany the anniversary, boosting nostalgia-driven sales across global fan communities.
Soldier shoots self dead at Nagrota Army camp in Jammu
A 24-year-old Agniveer allegedly shot himself dead at Nagrota Army camp in Jammu. Police have launched inquest proceedings, while experts stress the need for soldier welfare and psychological support.
Rajinikanth–Kamal Haasan reunion teased after 47 years
Cryptic posters released by Red Giant Movies have sparked strong buzz about a possible on-screen reunion of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan after 47 years. Timed to reference their birthdays, the teaser hints at a landmark collaboration, reportedly to be directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, promising a nostalgia-driven, mass-appeal blockbuster if officially confirmed.
Tamil Nadu, Puducherry polls: DMK starts candidate selection process
Internal surveys and performance audits will reportedly guide candidate selection to prioritise winnability and grassroots support over seniority.
Soldier found dead at Army camp in Jammu
A 24-year-old Agniveer from Uttar Pradesh allegedly died by suicide while on guard duty at the Nagrota garrison in Jammu around midnight. He died on the spot, and his body was sent for post-mortem. The cause is not yet known, and police have begun inquest proceedings.
Sharpshooter wanted in Moosewala killing, Jafrabad double murder arrested in Delhi
Delhi Police arrested Mahfooz Ali alias Bobby Kabootar, a wanted sharpshooter accused in multiple murders, including the Jafrabad double killing of two brothers, and suspected to be linked to the 2022 murder of Punjabi singer-rapper Sidhu Moosewala.
Odisha Reports 147 Cyclone Deaths in 12 Years, Damage Near ₹19,529 Crore
Repeated Bay of Bengal storms devastated livelihoods, destroying homes, crops, livestock and exposing coastal vulnerability despite improved disaster preparedness and evacuation systems.
Hyderabad Horror: 16-year-old girl allegedly sexually assaulted by trio, Including two minors
In Hyderabad's Chengicherla area, a 16-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by three persons including two minors on February 16, 2026, after being threatened with a knife and forced to consume alcohol.
Man in Kota detained for threatening Rahul Gandhi and other Congress MPs
The detained man claimed the threats were in retaliation for Congress MPs’ conduct in Parliament and posted them on social media.
India hosts EU’s first legal mobility hub for students and professionals
The office is expected to reduce visa misinformation, curb fraudulent recruitment agents, and improve trust between Indian job seekers and European employers.
Former Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot seeks probe into rising youth cardiac deaths
Ashok Gehlot seeks a high-level scientific probe into rising sudden cardiac deaths among youths and children, citing public fear, post-Covid concerns, and the urgent need for transparent, evidence-based clarity.
When Your Woman Axes a Bear for You!! Wife Saves Husband in Odisha Forest
Her quick thinking and fearless action with an axe drove the bear away, saving her husband’s life.
Big Boost for Uppada Fishermen: Pawan Kalyan to Roll Out Mega Development Plan
The government prepares a comprehensive master plan to strengthen Uppada fishermen’s livelihoods, improve infrastructure, ensure safety, and address coastal erosion and pollution challenges.
DMDK Joins DMK Alliance Ahead of Tamil Nadu Polls, Reshaping Political Equations
Premalatha Vijayakanth formalises pact with Stalin; seat-sharing talks begin as coalition expansion aims to consolidate support and influence closely contested constituencies.
Chennai to get world-class sports city by 2027 as TN bets big on sports infrastructure
The project is expected to generate large-scale employment in sports management, tourism, and allied service sectors across Chennai’s southern corridor.
Human judgment will always matter in AI era: Infosys founder Murthy
The discussion also explored how universities can redesign curricula to integrate technology training with moral education and civic responsibility.
Indian Markets Tumble as Oil Surge, Geopolitical Fears Trigger Broad Sell-Off
Escalating West Asia tensions, rising energy prices, inflation concerns and global uncertainty sparked volatility, dragging equities lower and weakening investor sentiment.
Mukesh Ambani’s ₹10 Lakh Crore AI Push Signals India’s Next Digital Revolution
Reliance plans nationwide AI infrastructure, sovereign compute and multilingual tools to expand access, boost productivity, strengthen data security and enable innovation.
Australia Level Series with 19-Run Win at Canberra, Adelaide Decider Awaits
Voll and Mooney’s record opening stand and Gardner’s late strikes sealed victory after India’s collapse despite a strong powerplay start.
CM Bhagwant Mann Recovers, Leaves Mohali Hospital After Fatigue Episode
Discharged after observation, doctors confirmed stable vitals as the Punjab leader resumed duties while continuing anti-drug campaign commitments statewide.
Bihar goes Naxal-free: Top Maoist Suresh Koda surrenders with weapons
Top Maoist Koda, wanted in over 60 cases, surrenders along with weapons and will enter Bihar’s rehabilitation program.
Karnataka Enters Ranji Final After 11 Years, J&K Eyes Historic Maiden Title
Dominant first-innings lead and Padikkal’s double ton propel Karnataka forward, while resilient Jammu & Kashmir chase an unprecedented domestic championship breakthrough.
Nearly 9.9 Lakh Students Set for Telangana Inter Exams Starting Feb 25
Hall tickets released with QR-enabled access, SMS support, and strict surveillance as authorities ensure smooth, fair conduct across thousands of centres statewide.
“Don’t force big shots”: Gavaskar’s tip for Abhishek Sharma, India’s top T20 batter
Gavaskar advises Abhishek Sharma to focus on getting off the mark and settling in before going for big shots in the T20 World Cup.
Antonelli leads competitive field on day 2 of Bahrain F1 testing
Teams also evaluated pit-stop procedures and communication systems, focusing on operational readiness beyond pure speed during intense desert testing conditions.
Afghanistan dominate, Zimbabwe stun Sri Lanka as group stage heats up in T20 World Cup
Group stage equations tighten as dominant wins and key clashes reshape the race to the semifinals.
Sumit Nagal’s Delhi Open run ends, Indian duo shine in doubles quarterfinals
Sumit Nagal exited in the second round, while top-seeded Indian duo Banthia and Donski advanced in doubles.
Milano-Cortina Day 13: Ning strikes gold as Ski Mountaineering makes history
China secured its first speed skating medal of the Games while new Olympic events and fierce rivalries added to an action packed day on the ice and snow.
‘Kerala Story 2’ invents false stories to insult Kerala, says K C Venugopal
Congress leader K C Venugopal has accused the upcoming film Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond of spreading false and fabricated narratives to insult Kerala and create communal division. Citing scenes from the trailer, he alleged the movie misrepresents the state’s secular society, hurts religious sentiments, and is part of a planned propaganda campaign backed by Sangh-linked groups.
Vishwak Sen’s ‘Cult’ teaser on 21st, Launch event at Prasad Labs
Actor Vishwak Sen is set to return with his upcoming film Cult, with the teaser scheduled for release tomorrow, February 21, 2026. The makers are hosting a teaser launch event today from 3 pm onwards at Prasad Labs. Coming after Funky, which received mixed reviews, Cult is being promoted as an intense, content-driven film with a gritty narrative, as the team builds anticipation ahead of the teaser drop.
Riteish Deshmukh unveils first look of directorial debut Raja Shivaji
Actor-director Riteish Deshmukh has unveiled the first-look poster of his directorial debut Raja Shivaji, a historical epic in which he plays Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Backed by Jio Studios, the film traces Shivaji Maharaj’s rise and his fight for Swarajya in 17th-century India. Featuring Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, and Genelia Deshmukh, the film wrapped a 100-day shoot in December 2025 and will release on May 1, 2026, in Hindi, Marathi, and dubbed versions in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.
Cocktail 2 wraps shoot, Sparks buzz over Rashmika–Kriti pairing
Cocktail 2 has wrapped shooting, triggering buzz over reports that Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna play a couple, with Shahid Kapoor as the third angle in a modern, flipped love triangle, though the makers are yet to confirm this. Backed by Maddock Films, the rom-com has sparked mixed reactions online, from praise for its progressive take to skepticism.
‘Aura of Ustaad’ promo ignites buzz around Ustaad Bhagat Singh
The promo of ‘Aura of Ustaad’, the second single from Ustaad Bhagat Singh, has heightened excitement around the film. Featuring Pawan Kalyan in a powerful mass avatar, the song underscores the film’s high-energy tone. Directed by Harish Shankar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers, the film’s music is composed by Devi Sri Prasad. The full song will be released on February 22, while the film is slated for a grand worldwide theatrical release on March 26, 2026, making it one of the most anticipated Telugu releases of the year.
Two Killed, Several Injured in Back-to-Back Road Accidents
Three separate road accidents across Telangana left two dead and several injured, with overspeeding and driver fatigue suspected causes.
EDITORIAL AND SPECIAL STORY
When the Crescent Moon Calls for Compassion
Can a month of fasting reshape hearts and heal divisions? As Ramadan begins , its message of discipline, compassion, charity and equality invites us all can this sacred season guide the nation toward peace?
The Genetic Blueprint in Your Blood
Using AI to analyze "genetic fingerprints" (epigenetic markers) in a single blood draw allows for the identification of high-risk prediabetes with 90% accuracy. This breakthrough enables personalized, early intervention to prevent type 2 diabetes and its complications, replacing the need for long and complex clinical tests.
SPORTS
Australia Level Series with 19-Run Win at Canberra, Adelaide Decider Awaits
Voll and Mooney’s record opening stand and Gardner’s late strikes sealed victory after India’s collapse despite a strong powerplay start.
Karnataka Enters Ranji Final After 11 Years, J&K Eyes Historic Maiden Title
Dominant first-innings lead and Padikkal’s double ton propel Karnataka forward, while resilient Jammu & Kashmir chase an unprecedented domestic championship breakthrough.
Antonelli leads competitive field on day 2 of Bahrain F1 testing
Teams also evaluated pit-stop procedures and communication systems, focusing on operational readiness beyond pure speed during intense desert testing conditions.
Afghanistan dominate, Zimbabwe stun Sri Lanka as group stage heats up in T20 World Cup
Group stage equations tighten as dominant wins and key clashes reshape the race to the semifinals.
Sumit Nagal’s Delhi Open run ends, Indian duo shine in doubles quarterfinals
Sumit Nagal exited in the second round, while top-seeded Indian duo Banthia and Donski advanced in doubles.
Milano-Cortina Day 13: Ning strikes gold as Ski Mountaineering makes history
China secured its first speed skating medal of the Games while new Olympic events and fierce rivalries added to an action packed day on the ice and snow.
ENTERTAINMENT
Nostalgia reloaded: ‘Hannah Montana’ anniversary special set for March 2026
Merchandise, fashion collaborations, and soundtrack vinyl reissues are expected to accompany the anniversary, boosting nostalgia-driven sales across global fan communities.
Rajinikanth–Kamal Haasan reunion teased after 47 years
Cryptic posters released by Red Giant Movies have sparked strong buzz about a possible on-screen reunion of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan after 47 years. Timed to reference their birthdays, the teaser hints at a landmark collaboration, reportedly to be directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, promising a nostalgia-driven, mass-appeal blockbuster if officially confirmed.
Vishwak Sen’s ‘Cult’ teaser on 21st, Launch event at Prasad Labs
Actor Vishwak Sen is set to return with his upcoming film Cult, with the teaser scheduled for release tomorrow, February 21, 2026. The makers are hosting a teaser launch event today from 3 pm onwards at Prasad Labs. Coming after Funky, which received mixed reviews, Cult is being promoted as an intense, content-driven film with a gritty narrative, as the team builds anticipation ahead of the teaser drop.
Riteish Deshmukh unveils first look of directorial debut Raja Shivaji
Actor-director Riteish Deshmukh has unveiled the first-look poster of his directorial debut Raja Shivaji, a historical epic in which he plays Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Backed by Jio Studios, the film traces Shivaji Maharaj’s rise and his fight for Swarajya in 17th-century India. Featuring Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, and Genelia Deshmukh, the film wrapped a 100-day shoot in December 2025 and will release on May 1, 2026, in Hindi, Marathi, and dubbed versions in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.
Cocktail 2 wraps shoot, Sparks buzz over Rashmika–Kriti pairing
Cocktail 2 has wrapped shooting, triggering buzz over reports that Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna play a couple, with Shahid Kapoor as the third angle in a modern, flipped love triangle, though the makers are yet to confirm this. Backed by Maddock Films, the rom-com has sparked mixed reactions online, from praise for its progressive take to skepticism.
‘Aura of Ustaad’ promo ignites buzz around Ustaad Bhagat Singh
The promo of ‘Aura of Ustaad’, the second single from Ustaad Bhagat Singh, has heightened excitement around the film. Featuring Pawan Kalyan in a powerful mass avatar, the song underscores the film’s high-energy tone. Directed by Harish Shankar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers, the film’s music is composed by Devi Sri Prasad. The full song will be released on February 22, while the film is slated for a grand worldwide theatrical release on March 26, 2026, making it one of the most anticipated Telugu releases of the year.