Buoyed by forecasts of a favorable monsoon, the government has set an ambitious foodgrain production target of 354 million tonnes for the 2025-26 crop year. This target, nearly 4% higher than the previous year, aims to capitalize on expected good rainfall. A nationwide awareness campaign will educate farmers on climate-resilient seeds and government programs.
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Aakash Chopra condemned a fan for editing his commentary to create a misleading video of MS Dhoni in the IPL 2025 match between CSK and RCB. The fake clip falsely linked Chopra's words to Dhoni’s arrival instead of his six. Despite CSK's defeat, Dhoni impressed with 30 not out, setting a new record for the team.
India has successfully tested its first indigenous micro-missile system, Bhargavastra, designed to counter swarm drone threats. The system can detect small drones at over 6 km and take them down using guided micro munitions.
There are 43 lakh cheque bounce cases pending in courts across India, with Rajasthan leading at 6.4 lakh cases. Cheque bounce cases face delays due to adjournments and lack of monitoring. The Supreme Court initiated a pilot study in five states to expedite case handling.
Gujarat Titans pacer Kagiso Rabada has returned to South Africa for personal reasons during the IPL 2025 season. Rabada played two matches, taking two wickets, before being replaced by Arshad Khan. The Titans, having secured Rabada for Rs 10.75 crore, will miss his presence but have other pace options. They face Sunrisers Hyderabad next.
Lucknow Super Giants' mentor Zaheer Khan has promised an aggressive and fearless brand of cricket in the upcoming IPL season under new captain Rishabh Pant. Zaheer emphasised Pant's resilience and offensive tactics to lead the team with confidence and hope for a strong performance. Addressing concerns over injuries, Zaheer dismissed any negativity, pointing to Pant's resilience as a key factor in shaping the team's attitude.
Maharashtra's junior home minister, Yogesh Kadam, announced that the government will investigate comedian Kunal Kamra's call recordings and bank statements after he called deputy CM Eknath Shinde a 'gaddar' during a Mumbai show. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam claimed Uddhav Sena funded Kamra's show and issued a warning to the comedian while party workers vandalized the hotel's venue in response.
The Indian cricket team has been intensively training at the ICC Academy in Dubai ahead of their matches against Bangladesh and Pakistan. Key players like Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya showcased impressive performances, while bowlers like Mohammed Shami practiced extensively. The mood remained positive and upbeat, with both fun activities and serious preparations underway.
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.
Delhi Capitals defeated Lucknow Super Giants by eight wickets, leading to visible frustration for LSG captain Rishabh Pant, who was seen in intense discussions with mentor Zaheer Khan after a duck. Ambati Rayudu suggested Pant needs to take more ownership and bat higher in the order. Pant acknowledged LSG's struggle to find their best combination after the loss.
Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 14th, is dedicated to expressing love and gratitude towards loved ones, including partners, family, and friends. It traces back to Saint Valentine, who defied a marriage ban and was executed for it. People celebrate by sharing special messages, wishes, and quotes from famous authors.