The Union Cabinet approved the One Nation One Election bill, likely to be tabled in Parliament next week. The opposition INDIA bloc criticised the move as an attack on federalism and democracy, while some parties expressed scepticism about its feasibility. The NDA government and its allies welcomed the bill as a resource-saving measure.
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Quad foreign ministers celebrate 20 years of cooperation, reiterating their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. They reaffirm support for Asean's centrality and Pacific-led regional architecture. The statement is significant as India prepares to host the next Quad summit in 2025 amid growing Chinese assertiveness in the region.
Harry Brook, England's new white-ball captain, commits to national duties. He prioritizes playing for England over franchise cricket for now. Brook aims to participate in all England series. He acknowledges the need for occasional breaks. Brook expresses his desire to win the Ashes. He will likely play in The Hundred.
Mohammed Shami, recovering from ankle surgery, impressed fans with his powerful hitting during net practice at the NCA, even without helmet or pads. He recently returned to domestic cricket with strong performances in the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, despite lingering knee swelling.
Coca-Cola is optimistic about its future in India, a key market where local brands like Thums Up, Maaza, and Limca strengthen its portfolio. Amid intensified competition from Reliance's Campa Cola, Coca-Cola plans to bolster existing categories and explore new opportunities, particularly in urban markets with higher purchasing power.
The US's increased tariffs on China, Mexico, and Canada could benefit Indian exporters in sectors like agriculture, engineering, and textiles. Experts highlight opportunities to source key commodities from Canada at competitive prices. India may propose a "Zero-for-Zero Tariff" arrangement to bolster trade with the US while avoiding comprehensive Free Trade Agreement negotiations.
Reportedly, Salman Khan’s lookalike, Aazam Ansari, has been arrested in Lucknow for blocking the road, arguing with people, and allegedly making a video with a gun. Ansari claimed he was unfairly detained while drinking tea. The police cited his expired gun license as a major concern and he alleges he was mistreated by police and faces difficulties obtaining bail.
India's cricket team is gearing up for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, with matches hosted in Dubai due to security concerns of travelling to original hosts Pakistan. They start against Bangladesh on February 20. India has a strong record in Dubai, with significant performances from players like Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan.
To shield its steel industry from a surge in inexpensive imports, the Indian government has implemented a 12% safeguard duty on specific alloy and non-alloy steel flat products. This action, welcomed by the Union Minister, aims to alleviate pressure on domestic manufacturers, particularly SMEs, facing market distortions due to increased foreign steel inflows.
The Delhi government will table the long-pending CAG reports examining the previous AAP administration's performance in the Assembly on February 25. BJP MLA Vijender Gupta, the newly elected Speaker, confirmed the reports' tabling. The BJP alleges AAP delayed the reports to conceal corruption, while CM Rekha Gupta defends her swift actions.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that the U.S. may withdraw from brokering a Russia-Ukraine peace deal within days if progress isn't evident. Following meetings in Paris, Rubio emphasized the urgency for a breakthrough, citing stalled negotiations due to Russia's demands and disagreements between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy. Despite a potential minerals agreement, the U.S.