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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Chennai Super Kings faced a crushing defeat against Kolkata Knight Riders, losing by eight wickets at Chepauk on Friday. This marks their first-ever streak of three consecutive losses at their home ground. CSK's batting faltered, managing a mere 103 for nine, their lowest total at Chepauk. KKR chased down the target swiftly in a little more than 10 overs
The CAQM has withdrawn Stage-III restrictions under the GRAP in Delhi-NCR due to improving air quality indexes. Officials stated that Stage-I and Stage-II measures remain active. The AQI improvements are credited to favorable weather and higher wind speeds. Stage-III restrictions, including prohibitions on non-essential construction and specific vehicle usage, were initially enforced on January 5.
In Varanasi, the Shri Kashi Vidwat Parishad (SKVP) is investigating a decades-closed temple in Madanpura, believed to be the Siddheshwar Mahadev temple. Scholars are meticulously researching ancient scriptures and maps to locate a water body and other temples mentioned in the texts, possibly buried under modern structures.
Google Pay has begun implementing a convenience fee on utility bill payments made using credit and debit cards, charging between 0.5% and 1% plus GST. This move signifies a trend towards monetising UPI transactions to recover payment processing costs. UPI-linked bank account payments remain fee-free.
Rekha Gupta, a first-time MLA, was sworn in as Delhi's chief minister at Ramlila Maidan in the presence of PM Narendra Modi and other leaders. With BJP's victory, she ended AAP's 10-year rule. Gupta is the fourth woman CM of Delhi, following Sushma Swaraj, Sheila Dikshit, and Atishi. She expressed commitment to the development of Delhi, pledging honesty and dedication.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a crucial victory against Rajasthan Royals, fueled by Virat Kohli's composed seventy and Josh Hazlewood's game-changing final overs. Kohli's innings anchored Bengaluru's innings, while Hazlewood's exceptional death bowling restricted Rajasthan's chase, ultimately sealing an eleven-run win for the home side. This victory propelled Bengaluru to third place, while Rajasthan's playoff aspirations suffered a setback.
PM Modi and US Vice President J.D. Vance hailed the progress in negotiations for a mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement (BTA), emphasizing its focus on citizen welfare. The US formally announced the terms of reference, outlining a roadmap for discussions on shared economic priorities.
US President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on imports from countries purchasing Venezuelan oil and gas, potentially affecting India, China, and others. These tariffs aim to exert economic pressure on Venezuela, which Trump accuses of hostility and other malpractices. The tariffs, effective from April 2, coincide with his broader plan for reciprocal tariffs on other nations.
Indian chess star Tania Sachdev publicly expressed her disappointment over the Delhi government's lack of recognition for her chess achievements. Despite winning medals at the Chess Olympiad and holding national and Commonwealth titles, Sachdev claims lack of acknowledgment from the state government.
Osamu Nishimura, a prominent Japanese wrestler, has died at 53 after battling esophageal cancer. Despite his late-stage diagnosis, he continued wrestling until December 2024. Nishimura was also a Tokyo Bunkyo Ward Assembly representative and food education instructor. WWE star Shinsuke Nakamura paid tribute. His death was announced on February 28, 2025.