Marine Le Pen and eight MEPs have been found guilty by a Paris court of embezzling EU public funds intended for parliamentary aides. The ruling could impact Le Pen's chances of running in the 2027 presidential election. Even if she appeals, the court can declare her ineligible for office immediately, putting her political future at risk.
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The UPSC has extended the application deadline for the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 to February 21. Candidates can make corrections from February 22 to February 28. Initially set for February 11, the deadline has been postponed twice. Applicants must register online at upsconline.gov.in to complete the process.
India's Champions Trophy match against Pakistan had a rocky start as Mohammed Shami delivered an 11-ball opening over, setting a record for the longest over by an Indian in the tournament. Shami's wayward bowling included five wides, the most in an opening over, overshadowing Jasprit Bumrah's previous record. Hardik Pandya eventually took India's first wicket, dismissing Babar Azam.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the recent Coldplay concerts in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, highlighting India's potential for hosting live international events. He called on state governments and the private sector to develop the necessary infrastructure and skills to attract more global artists and enhance the country's live concert scene.
The domestic pharma industry in India may not face significant impact from potential US tariffs on pharmaceutical exports. Indian generics, which dominate exports and are in continuous demand, could absorb additional costs. Key industry players are awaiting further details on the tariffs while engaging in bilateral talks.
Virat Kohli has been fined 20 percent of his match fees for a physical altercation with Australian debutant Sam Konstas during Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test. The incident, which involved shoulder contact and heated words, avoided a Level 2 offence, thereby sparing Kohli a potential suspension. Australia finished the day on 311/6.
Kashmir's chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, was once again placed under house arrest, preventing him from leading Friday prayers at Srinagar's Jamia Masjid. This marks the fourth consecutive Friday Mirwaiz has been barred, sparking criticism from the Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid and the National Conference, who decried the restrictions as unjust and a violation of religious freedom.
Research on lab-produced eggs and sperm, known as in-vitro gametogenesis (IVGs), is advancing quickly, with potential for future fertility treatments. While successful in mice, it remains untested in humans. Issues such as safety, effectiveness, and ethical concerns need careful consideration, involving patient communities and public input from the early stages.
Yashasvi Jaiswal faced a challenging Day 4 in the Boxing Day Test after dropping three important catches, including Marnus Labuschagne's edge. Experts like Mike Hussey and Alyssa Healy emphasized the need for support and encouragement from teammates. Rishabh Pant's consoling gesture was praised for helping maintain team morale.
Pakistani YouTube star Rajab Butt has been charged with blasphemy after launching his perfume, '295', referencing controversial blasphemy laws. Following backlash from hardline group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, Butt issued an apology and discontinued the product. He faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Nearly two years after Odisha health minister Naba Das' assassination, BJP and BJD have clashed over the investigation. BJP MP Pradeep Purohit claimed a conspirator is being shielded, while MLA Jayanarayan Mishra alleged involvement of BJD politicians and officials. BJD refuted the claims, defending the police's investigation and openness to a CBI probe.