In response to a deadly stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela claiming 30 lives, Uttar Pradesh has enforced measures to ensure safety. These include banning vehicles in the fair area, revoking VVIP passes, implementing one-way traffic, stopping vehicles from nearby districts, and prohibiting four-wheelers in the city until February 4.
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An unexpected leopard sighting at Infosys' Mysuru campus on December 31 led to the company advising employees to work from home and trainees to stay indoors. Security efforts, including a task force collaboration and forest department involvement, were promptly initiated to ensure the safety of the campus.
Donald Trump has temporarily suspended US foreign aid to countries including Pakistan for a comprehensive review, affecting key sectors such as energy, economic growth, agriculture, education, and health. The decision has stalled numerous USAID-funded projects and could impact Pakistan's development trajectory and geopolitical alliances.
The Supreme Court directed the plea against the Bihar Public Service Commission’s 70th Preliminary Exam to the Patna High Court instead. Allegations of a paper leak led to protests and police action, but BPSC limited cancellations to one center. Despite assurances, protests continued, resulting in violence and restrictions in Patna.
The Union government told Parliament there have been reports of violence and discrimination against minority communities, including Hindus, in Pakistan. Many Hindus are reportedly migrating from Sindh province due to intimidation, abduction, forced conversions and forced marriages. Hindu migrants in India can apply for Long Term Visas and seek permanent settlement and Indian citizenship.
Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali, Imam of Lucknow Eidgah and executive member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, issued an advisory to change the time for Juma namaz on March 14, coinciding with Holi. He suggested local mosques shift the prayer to 2pm to avoid conflicts with Holi celebrations and emphasized fostering communal harmony.
Police in Buxar arrested a woman for murdering her eight-year-old stepdaughter by strangulation, attempting to burn the body, and concealing it in a gunny bag inside a wooden box. The child's uncle had reported her missing, leading to the woman's arrest and the discovery of the body.
India's gas consumption is set to increase by 60% to 103 bcm by 2030, with LNG imports more than doubling. The International Energy Agency highlights the need for further market liberalisation and strategic planning to secure long-term contracts. The city gas distribution sector is expected to drive growth, supported by infrastructure expansion and competitive pricing.
Indian IT firms are exhibiting cautious hiring approaches amidst economic uncertainties and increased automation. While some firms saw slight headcount increases in the March quarter, overall hiring remains subdued compared to previous years. Companies are prioritizing cost efficiency and maximizing existing resources, leading to a challenging job market for college graduates, with expectations of flat hiring trends throughout 2025.
During a joint press conference, US President Trump acknowledged PM Modi as a tougher negotiator. He announced the India-US partnership in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and future military sales including F35 fighters. Trump also highlighted agreements on energy imports and reaffirmed cooperation within the Quad to maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin criticises the Centre's three-language formula under NEP 2020, terming it 'Hindi colonialism'. He asserts Tamil Nadu will not tolerate this and mocks the BJP's signature campaign. Stalin emphasizes that Hindi has been overly imposed, while the Tamil Nadu BJP chief counters his claims and backs the policy.