China announced a 7.2% hike in its defence budget, bringing it to over $245 billion, reflecting its continued military modernization. This intensifies strategic challenges for the US and India, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, amid mounting geopolitical tensions. On the other hand, India's defence budget remains constrained by operational shortfalls and spending limitations.
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A stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Sangam, Prayagraj, has resulted in several injuries, as eyewitnesses recount the chaos and delayed emergency response. Devotees struggled to stay together amid the massive crowd, with authorities urging people to adhere to safety instructions. Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah are monitoring the situation.
Pope Francis, 88, experienced another fall, injuring his right forearm, although no fractures were sustained. This incident follows a previous fall in December that resulted in a chin injury. Despite ongoing health issues and frequent wheelchair use, Francis has stated he never considered resignation, even after a significant intestinal surgery.
The devasthan department's commissioner in Udaipur has ruled against Siddhi Kumari, a BJP MLA, in favor of Rajyashree Kumari and other trustees in a trust management dispute. Siddhi Kumari was accused of misusing her position to control trusts established by Bikaner's last maharaja, Dr. Karni Singh.
Several towns in Rajasthan observed a bandh demanding swift action against suspects involved in the alleged targeted sexual exploitation of schoolgirls in Bijaynagar. Seven men, including a former councillor, have been arrested. Protests were held, with markets remaining shut in some towns. Authorities assure expedited legal proceedings. Allegations of religious conversions are under investigation. Deputy CM Diya Kumari promised stringent action.
Taliban official Sher Abbas Stanikzai calls for reversing restrictions on female education in Afghanistan, arguing it contradicts Islamic law and is a personal bias. The Taliban restricts education beyond year six and has halted medical training for women, impacting the healthcare system.
Ashwani Kumar made an impressive debut in the IPL, taking four wickets in his spell against Kolkata Knight Riders, including dismissing their captain and the powerful Andre Russell. He is now the first Indian bowler to achieve such a feat on IPL debut, playing a crucial role in his team's victory.
Delhi Capitals' Karun Nair apologized to co-owner Parth Jindal after their loss to Mumbai Indians, despite Nair's impressive 89 off 40 balls. Jindal had praised Nair's batting, especially against Jasprit Bumrah, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of sports after both Delhi Capitals and Bengaluru FC faced defeats. Delhi Capitals, currently leading the points table, will next face Gujarat Titans.
A Nagpur student filed a petition with Delhi High Court to prevent NEET PG seats for PwD candidates from being converted to general seats during the third round of counselling. The petitioners claim the Central government’s failure to relax the minimum percentile criterion is responsible.
US Vice President J D Vance endorsed PM Narendra Modi's view at an AI summit, agreeing that AI will enhance productivity without replacing humans. Modi emphasized investing in skills for an AI-driven future, noting that technology changes the nature of work. Both leaders discussed the positive impact of AI on various sectors and advocated for transparent and democratic technology development.
The Budget has created room for RBI to cut interest rates by maintaining fiscal consolidation and reducing government borrowing. With the lower fiscal deficit target and expected healthy income tax collections, the RBI may lower the policy rate in the upcoming MPC meeting.