AV 21st February 2026

French President Emmanuel Macron with Prime Minister Narendra Modi headed to the India-France Innovation Forum

Tarique Rahman taking

ed among 30 community centres, enabli ng them to host events designed to tac kle di vi sion and soc ial i solation

Sadiq said he wanted comm u n i t y c e n t r e s t o b e a “powerful force for good ” H

rise in online hatred, he

“It

s heartbreaking to see the seeds of hatred, fear and division being sown online and on our streets People who are ethnic minorities, from the LGBTQ+ community, disabled, or from Jewish, Muslim, or Hindu

b a c k g ro u n d s o f t e n d o n’t

fe e l l o v e d a n d w a n t e d , they feel scared and fright-

ened ” T h e m a y o r o u

i n e d

plans to fund new community spaces over the next three years, offering classes and activities including mentoring, weekly dropins, English lessons, mental health support, community meals, and digital skills training

Me t r o p o l i t a n Po l i c e f i g u r e s s h o w a t w o p e r

cent rise in reported hate crimes in the 12 months to Januar y, up 390 incidents to 22,178- mostly racist and

lowed by faith-based and

Overall hate crime, howev-

compared with two years ago

comes from City Hall, with

Loved and Wanted cam-

140 organisations and distributed nearly £1 million, aiming to address loneliness and social isolation across the capital

Sir Sadiq also gave his strongest signal yet that he will stand for a fourth term as Mayor in 2028 He told t

“already worked out” his campaign

Tulip Siddiq faces extradition push from Bangladesh

Bang ladesh’s newly elected g overnment plans to ask the

U K to extradite Labo ur MP

Tu lip Sidd iq over corrup tion allegations, accord ing to a senior adv iser to prim e mini s te r- d es i g na te Ta ri qu e Rahman

Si d d i q , t h e M P fo r H a m p s t e a d a n d H i g h g a t e and a former minister, was tried in absentia and sentenced to up to four years in p r i s o n b y a B a n g l a d e s h i

court However, the UK government has said it does not recognise the ruling Humayun Kabir, expected to become Bangladesh’s next foreign minister, said t h e i n c o m i n g B a n g l a d e s h Nationalist Party (BNP) gov-

e r n m e n t w o u l d c o n t i n u e efforts to pursue both Siddiq and Hasina “They’re both c o n v i c t e d c r i m i n a l s n o w, and the judicial process is pursuing them,” Kabir said

Ho w e v e r, e x t r a d i t i o n remains unlikely as the UK

d o e s n o t h a v e a fo r m a l e x t r a d i t i o n t r e a t y w i t h

Bangladesh While extradit i o n s c a n o c c u r w i t h o u t s u c h a g r e e m e n t s , t h e

Labour Party has rejected the legitimacy of the verdict, saying Siddiq “has not had access to a fair legal process ” a n d w a s n e v e r p r o p e r l y i n fo r m e d o f t h e c h a r g e s d e s p i t e r e p e a t e d l e g a l requests

Si d d i q h a s d e n ie d a ny wrongdoing, saying she was n e v e r i n fo r m e d o f t h e details of the charges and describing the case as a “trial by media” The case could s t r a i n d i p l o m a t i c t i e s between the two countries

Kabir said the new government would not interfe r e w i t h t h e c o u r t s b u t expected cooperation from t h e U K He a l s o u r g e d British authorities to take a c t i o n a g a i n s t i n d i v i d u a l s l i n ke d t o H a s i n a ’ s Aw a m i League who are living in the UK, alleging involvement in destabilising Bangladesh

He w e l c o m e d r e c e n t action by the UK National

Tulip Siddiq

Cr i m e A g e n c y t o f r e e

more than £170 million in

B a n g l a d e s h i m i n i s t e r

S a i f u z z a m a n C h o w d h

y, but said further steps were needed

“We want them back,”

B a n g l a d e s h e x p e c t e d stronger cooperation from the UK on returning those convicted of crimes

Local elections back on after Starmer U-turn

Keir Starmer has rev ersed plans to delay local elections in parts o f Eng land , trigg ering criticism fro m op position parties and frustration within Labour

Ministers had proposed postponing polls in 30 areas, but Local Government Secretar y Steve Reed conf irmed they will now proceed in May 2026 after legal pressure from Nigel Farage and Reform UK, who were expected to win in court

The U-turn leaves the government facing a £100,000 legal bill and has forced councils to urgently prepare elections within weeks Kemi Badenoch called the situation “ predictable chaos,” while some Labour MPs said c

delay

Reed said elections would go ahead as planned and announced £63 million in supp

administrative costs

New right-wing party threatens to split Reform UK vote

A former Refo rm UK M P has launch ed a rival political party in a m o v e t h at c o u ld s p li t Ni g

an independent M P fo

Restore Britain, positioning it as a new “national political party” that could directly challenge Reform UK’s appeal to disaffected Conser vative voters

L o w e h a d o r i g i n a l l y s e t u p R e s t o r e

Britain as a political movement after being suspended by Reform UK last March, but its transition into a full party signals a more ambitious attempt to build a national alternative, and potentially draw support away from his former colleagues

Restore Britain is expected to operate as an umbrella organisation, partnering with locally based groups such as Great Yarmouth First, under which Lowe plans to contest his constituency again

His suspension from Reform UK followed allegations that he made threats of physical violence against then party chairm a n Z i a Yu s u f Ho w e v e r, t h e Cr o w n

Prosecution Ser vice later concluded there was insuff icient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction

A businessman, farmer and former chairman of Southampton FC, Lowe has cultivated an image as a political outsider, something allies believe could help him compete with Reform UK for voters frustrated with mainstream parties

I N B R I E F REFORM UK “SHADOW CABINET ” UNVEILED

Reform UK has named Robert Jenrick as its choice for chancellor if the party wins the next general election The former Conservative minister, who defected to Reform last month, said the party s plans would restore economic stability, slash waste, reduce the benefits bill, and cut taxes Another recent Tory defector, Suella Braverman, has been handed the education and skills portfolio, while Zia Yusuf, currently head of policy, will lead on home affairs, with a focus on cutting both legal and illegal immigration Announcing his newly branded “shadow cabinet,” party leader Nigel Farage positioned Reform UK as “the voice of opposition” to the Labour government

STUDENTS SUE UNIVERSITIES OVER ONLINE CLASSES

More than 170 000 students are seeking compensation from dozens of universities after their studies moved online during Covid-19 Pre -action letters have been sent to 36 universities across England and Wales, including Bath, Bristol Cardiff, Exeter, Imperial, Leeds, Liverpool, and Warwick The action follows a confidential settlement between University College London and the Student Group Claim, representing 6,000 affected students Lawyers say UK undergraduates could each claim up to £5,000 The cases, under consumer law, argue students paid for in-person teaching and full access to facilities, but were offered online courses instead, typically valued 25–50% less entitling them to financial compensation

FOREIGN DONATIONS TO UK PARTIES RESTRICTED

Foreign donors will face strict new limits on political donations under the UK s upcoming elections bill Only companies that earn significant revenue in the UK will be able to give substantial sums, with donations capped at two years’ revenue Shell companies and firms controlled overseas will be restricted to £500 for parties and £50 for individual candidates Majority ownership must be UK-based and on the electoral roll The bill set for parliamentary introduction also lowers the voting age to 16 and registration age to 14 while piloting automatic voter registration and mobile polling booths Cryptocurrency donations are expected to be banned

Sir Sadiq Khan

Rupert Lowe

Protecting future generations

The Labour government, led by Sir Keir Starmer, may soon ban children from using social media after completing a consultation process Australia has already prohibited under-16s from accessing social media, and countries like France are considering similar laws

The UK has debated restricting children's social media use for years Heightened awareness regarding mental health, online safety, and long-term developmental outcomes has intensified demands for policy intervention With children dedicating a significant portion of their daily activities to the digital realm, advocacy for more stringent age-related regulations is increasingly gaining traction

One significant adverse impact of social media pertains to c h i l d

designed to maximise user engagement, which often results in children spending extended periods online without awareness Consequently, many children may neglect academic responsibilities, as well as physical activities This pattern can negatively influence their academic performance and disrupt their sleep schedules

Insufficient sleep may, in turn, harm their overall wellbeing, diminish concentration, and contribute to emotional instability

The main concerns about social media is its impact on children’s mental health Excessive online activity can cause anxiety and depression in children and may gradually lower their self-esteem Online safety is another significant problem Despite age restrictions, many children easily sign up for

social media accounts, which exposes them to inappropriate material and potential predators Offenders can use these platforms to reach out and target young users, increasing the risk of exploitation By limiting children's access to social media, we can help safeguard them against these dangers

Governments have implemented initiatives to enhance online safety, including legislation like the Online Safety Act Nonetheless, concerns remain regarding the adequacy of these measures Due to deficiencies in current regulations, some stakeholders advocate for comprehensive bans targeti

approach

Should a ban be implemented in the UK, it may provide lasting advantages for coming generations Young people would have increased opportunities to develop practical abilities, enhance their independent thought, and engage in more confident communication This change could also strengthen family bonds and promote more effective social interaction

Some critics assert that social media fosters learning, creativity, and connectivity Although these advantages are acknowledged, they can also be attained at a later stage of development Older adolescents typically possess greater capacity for responsible social media usage and informed decision-making Consequently, permitting access after the age of 16 may represent a more appropriate approach There is no doubt that social media plays a significant role in our everyday lives, but setting reasonable limits helps safeguard children and promote their healthy growth and well-being

India watches closely as Bangladesh embarks on a new political era

Bangladesh has announced the results of its elections, which hold significant diplomatic and strategic importance for India

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party, headed by Tarique Rahman, secured a clear majority and formed the new government, as he got sworn in as Bangladesh’s first male Prime Minister in 30 years However, critics have called these elections not entirely inclusive, as the largest party in the country, the Awami League, was barred from participating

Following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus governed Bangladesh for 18 months During this period, the administration, which was influenced by Jamaat-e-Islami, adopted policies that affected relations with India With a new government now in office, p

emerged These ties are significant for India due to both diplomatic and strategic interests

This is why India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, promptly congratulated Tarique Rahman and offered his best wishes Reports also indicate that Prime Minister Modi has received an invitation to attend Tarique Rahman s swearingin ceremony

India's relationship with Bangladesh primarily focuses on

Muhammad Yunus' tenure, reports suggested that Pakistan gained more influence Certain actions by the interim admin-

istration caused security concerns for India and had an impact on trade and economic relations between the two nations

The key issue at present is whether Tarique Rahman will depart from the former administration’s anti-India stance and pursue the restoration of stable and constructive bilateral relations Achieving this may prove challenging, given the considerable representation of Jamaat-e-Islami in Parliament, which could potentially resist initiatives aimed at improving ties

Tarique Rahman has expressed willingness to strengthen ties with India Yet key issues between the two nations that persist include rising anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh, safety concerns for minorities (Hindus), disputes over the Teesta River, border violence, illegal migration, and delays in connectivity projects due to political shifts With possibilities of him asking for extradition of the UK MP Tulip Siddiq, question remains will he be able to uphold his position with India and other countries, when faced with the sway of nations like Pakistan, China, Turkey, and the United States, particularly in situations where their regional interests are at odds?

He has stated that he wants to restore Bangladesh’s longstanding foreign policy strategy The real challenge will be whether he can successfully handle internal ideological and hardline influences It is uncertain if he will manage to balance outside geopolitical interests and keep domestic stability at the same time

Shaping global AI dialogue

The India AI Impact Summit 2026, held in New Delhi from February 16 to 20, has brought together global leaders, heads of government, and top technology executives Billed as the first major AI summit in the Global South, it focuses on AI’s real-world applications, safety, and governance, with around 15-20 heads of government, over 50 ministers, and 40+ CEOs attending Discussions revolve around the theme “People, Planet and Progress”

Prime Minister Modi said the India AI Impact Summit 2026 explores AI for inclusive growth He called it a “ powerful convergence of ideas, innovation, and intent,” highlighting technology’s role in benefiting society (for more information on page 1) AI is transforming society, the economy, and governance, offering developing nations greater access to multilingual a n d d i g i t a l s e r v i c e s G l o b a l i n i t i a t i v e s l i

Principles, UN resolutions, and GPAI promote its responsible use Yet a “Global AI Divide” persists, with resources concentrated in a few countries and corporations, alongside challenges such as job displacement, bias, and high energy consumption, highlighting the need for coordinated, equitable action

I n h i s c o l u m n f o r A s i a n V o i c e ( p a g e 1 7 ) , P r o f e s s o r Siddartha Khastgir, a summit participant who will speak on AI’s trustworthiness, noted that democratisation of AI has immense benefits but also carries responsibility He wrote, “Democratisation enables access of AI’s power to the masses However, it puts the onus on policymakers and the AI ecosystem to ensure safe use of this AI power by the masses Larger the scale, higher the risk of negative outcomes, if left unchecked ” He emphasised that while governments adopt strategies from voluntary guidelines to strict regulations, they often struggle to keep pace with AI’s rapid evolution, making the AI summit a crucial platform to address these

global challenges

The summit positions India as a strategic hub in the global AI ecosystem, moving beyond outsourcing to shape, develop, and deploy AI responsibly By hosting global leaders, India seeks to influence governance, safety standards, and r e g u l a t i

p s

academia The focus is on practical, population-scale impact, bridging the “AI divide” and fostering inclusive growth in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and education It also highlights India’s status as the world’s third most AI-competitive nation and the IndiaAI Mission, which includes a ₹10,372 crore (£842 million) investment in indigenous foundation models With potential $100 billion in investment commitments, India leverages its experience in large-scale digital infrastructure to implement real-world AI solutions for equitable and sustainable development

Partnering with India, the UK has placed AI at the heart of its global diplomacy Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy and AI Minister Kanishka Narayan lead a high-profile delegation to the summit, underscoring London’s ambition to shape AI governance while deepening technology partnerships with one of the fastest-growing digital economies The UK delegation will highlight AI as a driver of economic renewal, social inclusion, and public service reform through responsible collaboration A key announcement will be UK

s

Observatory, strengthening responsible AI innovation and governance across South and Southeast Asia The summit also aligns with deepening economic ties: major Indian tech firms such as Infosys, TCS, and Wipro are expanding in the UK, while UK companies generate over £47 5 billion in India It also advances Vision 2035, a roadmap by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK PM Keir Starmer to drive innovation, growth, and jointly shape future technologies

Thought for the week

“Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear ” George Addai r

Political Sketchbook

Alpesh Patel

India as West – East tech broker.

India playing “te ch b roker” between Eas t and West is geopol itical ly s ignificant f or one simple reas on: in an AI wor ld, whoever s it s in the m iddle writes the menu, even if they don’t own the kitc hen

Start with leverage The US and its allies increasingly treat advanced chips, cloud capacity, and model weights as strategic assets, not neutral merchandise India, meanwhile, is trying to become a serious AI infrastructure hub via largescale data centre build-outs and GPU capacity - effectively positioning itself as the trusted place where workloads can run, data can be processed, and products can be built without either Washington’s export-control paranoia or Beijing’s state-control baggage Reuters and AP both report India’s ambition to pull in vast data-centre investment and expand compute access, which is the hard currency of modern AI

That makes India a potential “neutral platform” for firms that want scale without choosing a side If you are a US hyperscaler or a Western enterprise, India offers market size and (relatively) rule-of-law predictability If you are a Global South government, India can pitch a development-first stack and cheaper deployment pathway than the EU or US model, without the strategic dependency that can come with China India’s own government is explicitly exporting its Digital Public Infrastructure partnerships - it’s not just doing tech, it’s exporting governance patterns

Second implicat ion: standards power Hosting major AI diplomacy and pushing ideas like an “AI commons ” is a bid to shape global rules around access, safety, and interoperability - especially for countries that feel locked out by US and Chinese giants If India can set the convening agenda, it can become the place where “minimum viable consensus ” gets forged: not EU-style regulation, not US laissez-faire, not China’s state-first approach, but something pragmatic that many middle and emerging powers can live with The Financial Times notes India’s push to broker consensus on an “AI commons ” aimed at widening access, particularly for the Global South (Financial Times)

Third: supply-chain geopolitics without the chip fabs India is not yet a chip manufacturing superpower, but it can still become indispensable by owning the layers around compute: data-centres, cloud, model deployment, AI services, identity and payments rails That is why US-India frameworks like iCET and related tech partnerships matter: they are as much about trusted ecosystems and export-control alignment as they are about innovation Carnegie and CSIS both frame the relationship as moving from talk to concrete initiatives across semiconductors, AI, and critical tech

Fourth: China management, and the risks of being “in the middle” India’s balancing act is not cost-free Since 2020, India has restricted Chinese tech access in meaningful ways, while still facing the reality that Chinese hardware and components permeate global electronics That creates a con-

engagement If India becomes the bridge, both sides will test it - Washington will want stronger alignment on controls and security; Beijing will look for market access and influence Analysts note cautious re-engagement in some tech areas even amid rivalry

Finall y: the broker’s dilemma - credibility To broker between blocs, India must persuade others that it is a “trusted” venue That means clearer positions on data governance,

Exporting DPI and expanding AI infrastructure increases influence, but it also exports India’s choices about identity, access, and state capacity - which will attract scrutiny as much as admiration

Ne

Switzerland of AI deployment

but with a billion-plus domestic users and a very non-Swiss appetite for strategic autonomy The prize is agenda-setting power The risk is getting squeezed by both sides until “broker” becomes a polite word for “buffer state with servers ”

Ramadan lights illuminate London as Mayor calls for unity across faiths

Sadiq K han has switched

o n L o n d o n ’ s Ra m ad an

lig hts, describing the d isplay as a “sh ining sym bol of the kind of city we are ”

The Mayor joined the official switch-on ceremo-

n

celebrating the holy month of Ramadan The illuminated display, featuring the

this city who are sowing the seeds of division, sowing the seeds of hatred and sowing the seeds of fear One of the jobs we have to do during this month of Ramadan, whether you ’ re a Muslim, or a non-Muslim, is show that London is the antidote of that hatred, we are the antithesis for all they believe in

N

O U R I S H I N G T H E F A S T

During fo od p lays a central role in sustaining both body and spirit With fasting hours often stretch ing beyo nd 14 ho urs in the UK, nutritionists em phasise the imp ortance of balanced m eals at suhoor and iftar to m aintain energ y, hydration and ov erall wellbeing

Experts, including guidance from the N H S ,

foods, protein and healthy fats at both meals to maintain energy and prevent dehydration

Hydration is equally important Drinking water regularly between iftar and suhoor, alongside consuming fruits and vegetables with high water content, helps maintain fluid balance

Ingred ients:

v 1 wholemeal wrap

v A handful of fresh spinach

v 40g feta cheese, crumbled

v 4–5 cherry tomatoes, chopped

v 1 tablespoon hummus

v Optional: sliced avocado

M ethod : Spread hummus evenly over the wrap

Add spinach, feta and tomatoes, and avocado if using Roll tightly and serve

Health benefits:

s a g e “ H a p p y Ramadan”, has been funded by the Aziz Foundation, which provides grants and s

Muslims

h

Several buildings across

green, a colour traditionally associated with Islam, to m

r

Sadiq said he was proud to take part in the celebrations, calling the lights “ a shining symbol of the kind o f c i t y w e a r e i n c l u s i v e , welcoming and proud to celebrate all our communities”

He said, “I am really pleased that year after year, here in the heart of our city, we celebrate all the great festivals from around the world that are celebrat-

ed in London We celebrate C

Vaisakhi, and of course we celebrate Eid

in its fourth year, features more than 30,000 energy-

will be lit daily between 5pm and 5am On March 18, the message will change to “Happy Eid”, remaining in place until March 24 Khan also urged people of all faiths, and those who do not follow any religion, to come together during R

e around the world, there are those in Europe, there are those in this country and

“ D u r i n g t h i s m o n t h , please if you ’ re a Muslim,

open your fast with a nonMuslim If you ’ re a nonMuslim, ask one of your M u s l i m f r i e n d s , w h y a r

they’ll tell you because fasting is hard, maybe go along

Muslim friend

Creating a supportive workplace during Ramadan

Ramadan in the U K, w ill be

o bserv ed ro ug h ly betw een

5 2 0 am a nd 5 2 0 p m th i s year

B e c a u s e R a m a d a n f o llows the lunar calendar, it shifts earlier by around 10 days each year The last time

R a m a d a n b e g a n i n m i dFebruary was in 1994, and it will now fall in the winter months until 2037

F o r w o r k p l a c e s , R a m a d a n p r e s e n t s a n opportunity to strengthen

i n c l u s i o n a n d b e l o n g i n g When employees feel their beliefs are understood and r e s p e c t e d , t h e y a r e m o r e

l i k e l y t o f e e l v a l u e d a n d engaged Research has consistently shown that recognising and supporting religious observance can positively influence job satisfaction and wellbeing

F le xi bl e w o rk i ng c an m ake a meaningful differe nc e F o r e x a m p l e , s o m e colleagues may prefer to fini s h w o r k e a r l i e r t o b r e a k their fast at sunset Others may benefit from adjusted s c h e d u l e s s u c h a s

r l i e r start times, later start times, or modified lunch breaks

Increased hybrid working, fewer meetings during particularly challenging times o f t h e d a y , a n d a v o i d i n g evening social events during R a m a d a n c a n a l s o h e l p e m p l o y e e s m a n a g e t h e i r energy levels

Access to prayer sp aces is another im portant con-

s i d er ati o n D e m

n d f o r quiet or multi-faith rooms may increase, and employees may need short breaks for prayer during the day

Those travelling or attend-

ing external events may also need reassurance that suitable facilities are available

learning sessions or charity

workplace relationships

the last 10 days of Ramadan or to celebrate Eid al-Fitr

Ultimately, every indi-

Taking the time to check in,

can help ensure colleagues

Ramadan Crescent returns to Nutford Place

sonal feature, following on from the district’s

gramme

Ramadan meals need not be elaborate to be meaningful Simple, balanced dishes prepared with care can nourish the body, sustain energy and allow individuals to fully embrace the spiritual essence of the month

Two simple vegetarian dishes, ideal for busy households and working professionals, are the Spinach & Feta Wholemeal Wrap for suhoor and the Chickpea & Roast Vegetable Salad for iftar

Spinac h & F eta W ho le meal Wrap

This quick, nourishing wrap takes less than 10 minutes to prepare and provides sustained energy for the day ahead

Chickpea & Ro ast Veg etable Sa la d

After a long fast, the body needs gentle but nourishing food This colourful salad replenishes nutrients without feeling heavy

Ingredients:

v 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained

v 1 sweet potato, chopped

v 1 red pepper, chopped

v 1 courgette, sliced

v A handful of spinach or rocket

1 tablespoon olive oil

v Juice of half a lemon

v Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Roast the sweet potato, pepper and courgette in the oven at 200°C for 20–25 minutes with a little olive oil Allow to cool slightly, then mix with chickpeas and fresh leaves

Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice before serving

Health benefits:

Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fibre, helping repair

Wholemeal wraps contain complex carbohydrates that release energy slowly, helping you feel fuller for longer Spinach is rich in iron, which supports oxygen flow in the body and helps prevent fatigue Feta provides protein and calcium, supporting muscle health and bone strength, while hummus adds healthy fats and additional protein

This combination helps stabilise blood sugar levels and reduces mid-day energy dips

the body after fasting and keeping you satis-

health

R

antioxidants and natural carbohydrates to restore energy levels Sweet potatoes are particularly beneficial, as they contain potassium, which helps regulate hydration and muscle function

Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, while lemon supports digestion and enhances iron absorption

Community iftars to explore this Ramadan

Last w eek, A sian Voice sp otlighted the Open Iftar m ovement and the extraordinary pow er of foo d to bring peop le tog ether Similar to it, across the UK, community iftars are continuing that tradition, creating spaces where strangers become friends, loneliness is replaced with belonging, and Ramadan’s spirit of generosity is shared by all From women-led initiatives to mosque kitchens serving thousands, here are some of the community iftars people can explore this year:

v Breaking Bread Iftar | London 22 February 2026, 4pm

This welcoming gathering is open to everyone: new Muslims, converts, families, or non-Muslims curious about Ramadan Organised in partnership with Nur Sa’adah and Kismet Café, the event focuses on warmth, openness and creating a safe space to experience breaking fast together

v Free d aily iftars at Birmingham C entral Mosque

One of the UK’s largest mosque-run iftar programmes, serving hundreds of people every evening These daily meals are open to all and play a vital role in supporting those who may otherwise struggle to access food or community

v Com munity iftars at East London Mosque

Serving thousands of meals throughout Ramadan, the mosque welcomes students, professionals, elderly residents and vulnerable people For many, it is both a place of worship and a lifeline for social connection

These initiatives highlight how community iftars have evolved into powerful social spaces, particularly for women, reverts, young professionals and those living away from family They offer more than a meal at sunset; they provide comfort, understanding and a reminder that Ramadan is as much about community as it is about faith

As Ramadan begins, these gatherings stand as an open invitation: to share food, to share stories, and to experience the warmth of community, one plate at a time

Asian Voice wishes all our readers a blessed and peaceful Ramadan. May this holy month bring joy, reflection, and togetherness with your loved ones.

Sir Sadiq Khan at the ceremony, addressing the attendees

What Is Ramadan?

Reflection, Resilience and Community

S Sqn L Ldr A Amir K Khan M MSt J J, BA ( (Hons), M MSc, F FRSA

Each year, millions of Muslims around the world observe Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the most spiritually significant time of the year. While it is often associated with fasting, Ramadan is about far more than abstaining from food and drink, it is a month rooted in reflection, self-discipline, generosity and connection.

For Muslims, Ramadan is a pause from the noise of everyday life and an opportunity to refocus on faith, values and service to others. Its themes are universal, even for those outside the faith: patience, empathy, purpose, and compassion.

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan begins with the sighting of the new moon and lasts either 29 or 30 days, ending with the celebration of Eid ulFitr, a festive occasion marked by prayer, charity, and time with family and friends.

During daylight hours, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. This includes abstaining from food and drink, but also from smoking and negative behaviours such as gossip, anger

or dishonesty. The objective is not deprivation, but mindfulness strengthening self-control and developing greater awareness of how we treat others.

Importantly, Ramadan is not a single, fixed experience. Each Muslim observes it slightly differently, shaped by their personal circumstances, health, responsibilities, and spiritual focus. Islam recognises this individual journey, allowing people to practise their faith with sincerity and balance.

A day during Ramadan

A typical day starts before sunrise with Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal that provides energy for the long day ahead. Over the years, I have experienced this differently depending on where I was living and working from early breakfast

I have found that, with understanding and balance, it is possible to observe Ramadan meaningfully while continuing my role in the Royal Air Force and contribute fully.

provision in RAF accommodation to preparing meals at home. That flexibility made practising my faith alongside professional life achievable.

Once dawn arrives, the fast begins. The working day continues as normal− meetings, responsibilities, and routines− with a heightened emphasis on patience, calm, and reflection.

At sunset, the fast is broken with Iftar. Traditionally, this begins with dates and water followed by a shared meal. Iftar is often a moment of togetherness, bringing people together across families, friendships, and increasingly workplaces and communities. Iftar events are seen in many areas, and I would encourage everyone to attend and experience it.

Prayer, purpose and giving back

Prayer becomes more central during Ramadan. In addition to daily prayers, Muslims observe special nightly prayers known as Taraweeh. Many also aim to read the entire Quran over the course of the month.

People often ask whether this is compatible with a demanding professional role. While commitments and duties can present challenges, I have found that, with understanding and balance, it is possible to observe Ramadan meaningfully while continuing my role in the Royal Air Force and contribute fully.

Charity is another cornerstone of the month. Muslims are encouraged to be especially gen-

erous, supporting those less fortunate through time, kindness, and financial giving. This includes Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity given before Eid to ensure everyone can celebrate the end of Ramadan with dignity. As a family, we try and vary our charity to different charity organisations.

Faith, support, and inclusion

Having previously served as Chair of the Armed Forces Muslim Association, I have seen how vital awareness and support are not only for Muslim personnel, but for colleagues and leaders seeking to foster inclusive environments.

Across the UK Armed Forces, a wide range of faith leaders support personnel of all backgrounds, including Imams, Christian Padres, Jewish Rabbis, Sikh priests, and Hindu Pundits. Alongside this, ethnic minority networks continue to play an important role in building understanding, promoting dialogue, and strengthening community.

These structures do more than support religious observance; they help create workplaces where people feel respected and able to bring their full selves to duty.

Why Ramadan matters beyond faith

At its heart, Ramadan is about values that resonate well beyond religion. It encourages self-reflection, generosity, discipline, and empathy for those who live with hardship every day.

For those observing it, Ramadan is deeply personal. For those looking in from the outside, it can be an opportunity to

Across the UK Armed Forces, a wide range of faith leaders support personnel of all backgrounds, including Imams, Christian Padres, Jewish Rabbis, Sikh priests, and Hindu Pundits.

learn, to ask questions, and to appreciate a tradition centred on service and humanity.

As the month comes to an end with Eid ul-Fitr, the hope is that the lessons of Ramadan kindness, patience and care for others continue long after the fasting has finished.

At its heart, Ramadan is about values that resonate well beyond religion. It encourages self-reflection, generosity, discipline, and empathy for those who live with hardship every day.

A Journey Etched in Grit: The Tale of Lord Navnit Dholakia

A Jou rney Et ched in G rit:

The Tal e of Lor d N avnit Dholakia

A child who is not born but is born of a high rank

Once, in the world of myth, Karna stood tall and declared, “Effort is in my hands; my birth is not ” Centuries later, in the truest echo of that spirit, a child born in a modest Tanzanian town began a journey that would ascend not just political ranks, but the heart of two nations India and Britain

Navnit Dholakia was born on March 4, 1937, in Tabora, Tanzania, a child of Indian heritage rooted in Gujarat His family’s history was humble His grandfather had served as a doctor in Porbandar, while his father, Parmananddas, found work as a railway goods clerk in Tanzania Life meant frequent transfers, uncertain futures, and packing up to start anew For young Navnit, every move was a challenge, but also a door to discovery E ducation car ved ou t an u pco ming gr eat ness

In the towns of

diligently, dreaming of a future far beyond what his circumstances suggested Within a year, he had enough to board a ship bound for England

And in 1959, Navnit arrived in Brighton, the wind of the English Channel perhaps unaware that it now brushed against a future Lord

It was a hard life at first part-time classes, long work hours, meagre comforts but Navnit’s resolve never flinched. He stayed at East Africa

Moshi, Arusha, and Tabora, he learned not only the alphabet but also resilience His curiosity knew no borders He absorbed knowledge like a sponge and grew articulate, mastering both English and Gujarati by the time he reached high school in Bhavnagar, India There, amid the rhythms of school life and the roar of student debates, his voice began to rise a voice that would one day echo in the House of Lords

A to ugh Jour ney in E ngl and

Life called him back to Tanzania in 1955, where he worked as a bank clerk at just 18 Selfreliance was no longer a concept; it was a necessity He saved

House in London, and fate soon placed him at the same dining table as Julius Nyerere, who would become the first President of Tanzania

Their encounter wasn’t just memorable; it was symbolic Two sons of Africa, each on the cusp of history

Pol itics b egan calling

At just 21, with courage in his heart and fire in his belly, Navnit ran for local election in Brighton on behalf of the Liberal Party His opponent was the sitting mayor, a seasoned figure But when the votes were counted, it was Navnit who stood victorious His community noticed His party noticed Britain noticed

In the years that

followed, Prime Minister Harold Wilson appointed him to a national committee for helping new immigrants a clear sign that Navnit had become more than an elected official; he had become a bridge between communities, a torchbearer for the Asian diaspora

Love found its way int o the st ory

It was around 1960 that Navneet Dholakia met a young English woman named Ann Curious about India, Ann was drawn to Navnit not only for his mind but for the mosaic of heritage he represented Before their marriage, she visited India in 1966 to meet his family In Bhavnagar, Ann encountered Shantaben, Navnit’s mother, illiterate but full of grace and warmth

Ann’s recollection of the trip was charming: people crowded the streets to see the fairskinned visitor, as though a film star had graced the town.

Navnit and Ann built a life rooted in two cultures They raised their daughters, Anjali and Alene, with deep ties to India, sending them to live with their relatives during holidays and even enrolling them in Indian convent schools They wanted their children to know not just their roots but the strength drawn from them

When t he recommendation reached the Queen

By 1997, the world took further notice Paddy Ashdown, the leader of the Liberal Party, credited Navnit with helping secure 46 seats in the House of

Commons “I’m sending your name to the Queen,” he told him But Navnit feared for his colour, and he raised the same But Ashdown responded that it is because of your mind

And so, Navnit Dholakia became Lord Dholakia one of five Gujarati Lords in the British Parliament, a rare honour won not by wealth or privilege but by merit

He stood apart not just as a token or symbol, but as an active and fierce participant in shaping Britain’s future

In just two and a half years as a peer, he delivered 150 speeches, asked countless questions, and became a front-row spokesperson for the Liberal Party As whip of the party’s 72 Lords, his presence was not ceremonial it was commanding

The voice of upliftment

and equal ity

Lord Dholakia didn’t stop there He became a voice for justice, serving as Chairman of the National Committee for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders He championed racial equality, sat on panels to protect children, advised Britain’s Home Secretary on ethnic issues, and sat on the editorial board of the Harvard Journal

From mental health to criminology, from policy to politics, his footprint grew deeper with every passing year

The ra gs to riches story

What made his story shine, however, was never the titles or accolades It was his grit

The silence of long nights studying by dim lights, the backaches from countless jobs taken to fund a dream, the memories of a

mother’s embrace in Bhavnagar, the simplicity of Ann’s first visit to India, the way Parliament members once stumbled over his name and how they now speak it with respect Lord Dholakia receives no salary for his work in the House of Lords Just a modest attendance allowance, a desk, and a phone But his reward lies in something grander: legacy

H ow merit can defeat l ineage

His daughters carry forward his spirit

Anjali, a barrister, and Alene, a doctor His life, a saga of how intellect can cut through barriers, and how a boy from a railway family in Africa can rise to shape two worlds Lord Navnit Dholakia remains deeply connected to India

While his passport may be British, his soul beats with a rhythm forged in Gujarat’s dusty lanes and student halls. He once said he believed that the bond between India and the West would one day outshine old rivalries, and his life is the embodiment of that bridge

From Tabora to London, from elocution contests to parliamentary debates, from saving train fares to rewriting party manifestos his journey is more than inspiring It is necessary It is proof that destiny isn’t given; it is made

Lord Navnit Dholakia & Lady Ann wedding in 1967

Lord Navnit in his beloved garden with grandson Thomas

Lord Navnit Dholakia & Lady Ann

MPs clash over UK-India trade deal

gy p op padums ”

“Instead of a vindaloo of a deal, the PM came back with a bag of soggy poppadums”, he said T

businesses viewed

2050 India will have more than 250

presenting major opportunities for UK exporters

However, MPs raised concerns that the deal does not sufficiently

c o v e r U K s

v i c e s , p a

l a r l y legal services, allows Indian workers and their employers to avoid p a y i n g N a t i o n a l I n s u r a n c e f o r three years, and could undercut British workers Critics also pointed to delays of five to 10 years before UK goods exporters see tar-

i f f r e d u c t i o n s , c o m p a r e d w i t h i m m e d i a

exporters, alongside the absence of a bilateral investment treaty and

o

n

labour clauses

There were warnings about an influx of cheaper Indian imports and concerns over India’s complex

also criticised the double contributions convention (DCC), arguing it

said DCC agreements are usually struck with countries with comparable economies, such as Japan and Canada, arguing India was “by far the largest and least wealthy coun-

try” on the list

Bryant countered that Indian

including the NHS surcharge and immigration skills charge

Police sexual misconduct allegations surge

The number of sexual m isco nd uct allegations inv olving po lice officers has risen sh arply, according to new data from the Home Office

There were 1,100 allegations of sexual conduct against officers in England and Wales in the year to March 31, 2025, up from 819 the p

accounted for the largest proportion of charges, making up 26 per cent of all cases

The Metropolitan Police began reviewing cases following outrage over crimes committed by serving officers including Wayne Couzens and David Carrick Its Professional

National police group formed over Epstein allegations

Br itish police have est abl ished a nation al coor dination group to assess all egations linked to disgraced financier Jeffr ey Epstein a nd his as soc i at e s, i n

din g c l a im s in v o

Andrew, Duke o

York

The group, chaired by former Metropolitan Police assis-

a Rolfe, brings together specialist officers from several forces to review material released by the US Department of Justice A spokesperson for the National Police Chiefs' Council said the body would support forces handling allegations arising from

documents

At least three UK forces are now examining claims Thames Valley Police is assessing two

Epstein trafficked a woman to Windsor Castle and that confidential documents were shared during Andrew’s time as a trade envoy Surrey Police is reviewing a separate allegation Prince Andrew has denied wrongdoing The Metropolitan Police is also reviewing claims involving Labour peer Peter Mandelson

Essex, are assessing whether UK airports were used in Epstein’s trafficking network

One senior policing source warned of a “tsunami” of allegat i

have intensified political pressure, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and former prime mini s t e r G o r

B r o w n a

n g those calling for full investigations B u c k i

a i d King Charles III stands ready to support any police inquiry

Standards Directorate has since handled hundreds of allegations, with 65 per cent leading to criminal investigations

Under Operation Onyx, 1,636 sexual and domestic abuse cases were reviewed, resulting in 378 officers being dismissed or resign-

unit, established in January 2023,

women

progress but

re still finding issues We’re going to keep turning these cases up

showed that 53 per cent of sexual conduct allegations had a “ case to answer ” , the highest rate of any misconduct category, though concerns remain about whether all incidents are properly addressed

The Mother’s 148th Birthday on 21st February 2026

The Mother was born Mirra Alfassa in Paris on 21 February 1878. A pupil at the Academie Julian, she became an accomplished artist, and also excelled as a pianist and writer. Interested in occultism, she visited Tlemcen, Algeria, in 1905 and 1906 to study with the adept Max Theon and his wife. Her primary interest, however, was spiritual development. In Paris she founded a group of spiritual seekers and gave talks to various groups.

In 1914 the Mother voyaged to Pondicherry to meet Sri Aurobindo, whom she at once recognised as the one who for many years had inwardly guided her spiritual development. After a stay of eleven months she was obliged to return to France due to the outbreak of the First World War. A year later she went to Japan for a period of four years.

In April 1920 the Mother rejoined Sri Aurobindo in Pondicherry. When the Sri Aurobindo Ashram was formed in November 1926, Sri Aurobindo entrusted its full material and spiritual charge to the Mother. Under her guidance, which continued for nearly fifty

years, the Ashram grew into a large, many-faceted spiritual community. In 1952 she established Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Education, and in 1968 an international township, Auroville.

The Mother left her body on 17 November 1973.

There is one divine Force which acts in the universe and in the individual and is also beyond the individual and the universe. The Mother stands for all these, but she is working here in the body to bring down something not yet expressed in this material world so as to transform life here -- it is so that you should regard her as the Divine Shakti working here for that purpose. She is that in the body, but in her whole consciousness she is also identified with all the other aspects of the Divine. p. 49-50

Q:

There are some Prayers of the Mother of 1914 in which she speaks of transformation and manifestation. Since at that time she was not here, does this not mean that she had these ideas long before she came here?

A: The Mother had been spiritually conscious from her youth, even from her childhood upward and she had done Sadhana and had developed this knowledge very long before she came to India.

P.384 (23-12-1933) Volume 25, "The Mother", of Sri Aurobindo Birth Centenary Library.

On Education

Prayers and Meditations

June 29, 1914

GIVE joy, peace and happiness to them all. . . . If they suffer, illumine their suffering and make it a means of transfiguration; grant them the beatitude of Thy love and the peace of Thy unity; may their hearts feel vibrating within them Thy eternal Presence. They are all in me, O Lord, I am in them all, and since instead of an “I”, there is now only Thy sovereign love, they are all in Thy love and will be transfigured by it. O Lord, my sweet Master, unknowable splendour, give them joy, peace, beatitude.

British worker

Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds, Prime Minister Keir Starmer with Indian counter parts Narendra Modi and Piyush Goyal

Sir Mark Rowley

The Bhavan marks

India’s Republic Day 2026

The Bhavan, London, celebrated India’s Republic Day on 10 February 2026, with His Excellency Kartik Pande, Acting High Commissioner of India, as chief guest

The event began with a

Nandakumara, followed by

o f Hammersmith and Fulham, highlighted Bhavan’s role in

expressed her support for its

Council

Lord Dholakia OBE PC, Deputy Leader of the Liberal

institution for fostering cultural identity and a sense of belonging, calling it a “home away from home ” He also highlighted India’s progress toward self-sufficiency and the evolving India-UK bilateral relations

Windsor event celebrates social welfare leaders

Neel Radia was ho no ured to attend a prestigious reception at Windso r Castle h osted by Their Maj esties King

C h a rl es I I I a nd Q u ee n C am i ll a , a lo n gs i de 3 00 guests fro m across the UK

of charitable work, volunt e e r i n g w i t h s e v e r a l U K organisations He serves as National Chairman of the National Association of Care

C a t e r i n g ( N A C C ) a n d h a s been a Trustee at St Luke’s

T

the selfless contributions of

n i s ations in the care sector, celebrating their dedication and invaluable impact on socie t y O t h e r d i s t i n g u i s h e d

g u e s t s a t t h e

e c e p t i o n i n c l u d e d T h e D u c h e s s o f Edinburgh, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and

P r i m e M i n

K e i r Starmer Radia has a long history

event

Hospice, Harrow and Brent, for over six years He also f

cakes, combat loneliness, and share them with

community spirit and compassion

reflected on India’s achievements, including high voter

growth, and active diplomacy representing the Global South He emphasised the d

sadors, strengthening India-

The Bhavan for preserving and promoting arts and culture

The vote of thanks was

Bhavan, who expressed grat-

h Commissioner Kartik Pande and the High Commission for their support and high-

progress and self-sufficiency

, C h a i

University of London Board of Trustees, Girish Sanger, a n d S h o b a n a I y e r T h e speeches were followed by c u l t u r a l p e r f o r m a n c e s b y Bhavan’s music and dance students, and the event conc l u d e d w i t h t h e N

Anthem

British Asian Trust receives $500K from Citi Foundation

The British A sian Trust has been award ed $500, 000 U SD as part of C iti F ound ation’s 20 2 5 Gl o bal I nno v ati o n Challeng e, joining 50 community organisations worldwide to boost youth employ-

to tackle systemic barriers to youth entrepreneurship T h e C i t i F o u n d a t i o n ’ s

Challenge provided $25 million to support community organisations worldwide in

ability The initiative will support 300 low-income young

and grow their businesses At least 90% are expected to gain external financing, with 243 projected to increase revenues by 25% The project w i l l

r lenders and ecosystem actors

Upcoming events at The Bhavan

1) On the sacred occasion of Maha Shivaratri, Sanskruti Center for Cultural Excellence presents Rudra Varenyam on Friday, 20 February at 6:30 PM, with tickets priced at £12 and £15 This vibrant Indian classical dance honours Nataraja, featuring Kakatiya lyrics and Patanjali Muni’s compositions, celebrating Shiva’s cosmic energy through his eternal dance of creation, preservation, and dissolution

2) The Bhavan’s ever-popular Yatra Festival 2026 takes place on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 February at 4:00 PM, with tickets priced at £12 The festival showcases emerging Indian classical music artists from across the UK, offering fresh interpretations of traditional repertoire in music and percussion and highlighting the next generation of talent

Thoughts come and go like clouds

We make th e mistake of equa ting o ursel ves with our emo tions a nd t houg hts Bu t we are ne ith er our e motions nor our thou ght s The y ar e o urs, but we a re not t hem But if we do n’t take owne rship, th ey wil l ta ke o urs No man shoul d be a slav e t o h is bra in o r h ea rt

People who cannot control their thoughts become subservient to them Those who commit a crime are examples of such thought slavery By having an angry thought, you don’t need to become angry By having a disappointing thought, you are not required to be depressed It is only one thought of despair Your life is much more than just one thought Rather, you should watch that thought from a safe distance and observe it without being affected by it It is not easy, but it can be developed through practice

You may have seen people who spoil their whole life because of one thought or emotion For the love or hate of a person, they forget all other aspects of life It becomes the sole purpose of their life It may be a temporary, partial reflection of their current state Remember that thought is only one part of our lives Because of having a feeling of revenge against one person, our life becomes bitter We cannot sleep at night The poison of hatred keeps us burning from inside Is this wise? No Life is worth much more than such emotions.

Whenever we pass through such a situation, we should sit down in a silent place. Observe our life in the context of a larger perspective We cannot be slaves to one emotion or thought. We need to be in control of our thoughts, like a charioteer controls his horses. Shri Krishna says in Bhagavad Gita Chapter 6, Shloka 26:

Which tr anslate s as f ollo ws:

"Whenever and wherever the restless and unsteady mind wanders, one should bring it back and continually focus it on God "

Lord Krishna advises us to bring back our focus to God whenever the restless and unsteady mind wanders Indeed, the mind is always restless and unsteady It tends to wander But a wise person should be quick to identify such activity of the mind and bring it back to focus on good Never drag yourself along with your wandering mind; you will be lost and directionless It takes an effort to stay steady Meditation takes time You cannot control your thoughts through meditation in a day Regular practice can help you achieve it, though Mindfulness, watching thoughts without judging them, helps us to know that we are not our thoughts They are only appearing in our minds, and it is up to us whether to act on them or not If we fail to distinguish, our chariot will be taken away by the horses, where they desire

creating innovative employm

income youth

H a b

Country Officer & Banking Head, Citi Pakistan, said the $500,000 USD grant to the

expand pathways to skills, entrepreneurship, and financ

youth, addressing opportunity gaps rather than talent

, Executive Director Pakistan, British Asian Trust, added that the initiative aims to

with lenders and ecosystem partners, fostering inclusive

The Persian poet Rumi noted, ‘thoughts are guests ’ So treat them as guests, not as owners of the house Welcome them, respect them, but don’t give them control of your house Don’t let them decide what to do and how to do it One should remember that thoughts may be good or bad, but they don't have the capacity to make us good or bad Even a person with bad thoughts is not necessarily evil Because thoughts are like clouds in the sky They cannot spoil the sky They may cover the sky, patch it, but cannot permanently change or spoil the sky Can they affect the purity and supremacy of the sky in any manner? Clouds have to go

Similarly, thoughts are temporary phenomena through which our mind tries to direct us in a particular direction They are appearing for a reason Maybe because of some historical or present event happening in our lives Or due to some past karma, or because of the influence of our company But they are only a nudge We don’t need to be steered by them Once we start understanding this fact and learn to watch them from a distance, they lose the ability to control us Our independence becomes more prominent We remain in control of ourselves in all conditions, regardless of good or bad thoughts Decisions remain in our power. As we continue to observe thoughts, we become calm Such controlled calmness becomes part of our personality, naturally. (Expressed opinions are personal)

Rohit Vadhwana

L to R- Dr MN Nandakumara MBE, Girish Sanger, Kavita Reddi, Shobana Iyer, Dr Surekha Mehta, HE Kartik Pande Varinder Singh Lord Dholakia OBE PC Cllr Sharon Holder and Lady Dholakia

The Bhavans Hindustani Music students performing at the event

Neel Radia meeting King Charles III at the

Representatives from the British Asian Trust and Citi Foundation at the event

Neasden Temple hosts traditional Maha Shivaratri rituals

tional activities

Devotees and communit

honour Lord Shankar in his Shivaling form, his celestial w

Tandava

fasting, prayers, chanting of “Aum Namah Shivaya,” and an annakut offering Swamis and devotees performed

bilva-patra, praying for globa

tion

An ice Shivaling was also d i s p l a y

symbolising Shiva Bhagwan a

India

Maha Shivratri celebrations at Gujarat Hindu Society, Preston

M ah a S hivratri Parv was celebrated with devotion at the

G u j ara t H i nd u S o ci e ty, P

by p riest Jig neshbhai Triv ed i A

total of 4 6 Yajm an particip ated , with o ver 200 dev otees attend ing and receiv ing L ord Shiv a ’ s blessing s I n t h e e v e n i n g , t h e Kamal Puja was performed

b y A m r a t b h a i a n d Neelamben Patel, followed

b y D w a j a A r o p a n a t

h e Shivji shrine by Maheshbhai Buran, and concluded with S h i v j i A a r t i b y N i l a m

h a i Karia and family Prasad was served during the afternoon and evening, kindly sponsored by Paliben Uttambhai Mistry and family

President Dashrathbhai

e x p r e s s e d h e a r t f e l t g r a t itude to all participants and Yajman for their contributions, and especially to the

S

Jigneshbhai Trivedi, for conducting the Rudrabhishek D

chanted Lord Shiva’s name throughout the day, creating a deeply spiritual and uplifting atmosphere

King Charles III’s visit to Lancashire

Charles III visit

The Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, invited Ishwerbhai Tailor and Urmila Tailor to represent the Gujarat Hindu Society, alongside delegates from other voluntary sector organisations, on 9 February 2026

During the meeting, Ishwerbhai Tailor reminded His Majesty of his visit to the Gujarat Hindu Society in May 1981, when he opened the Gita Hall extension for the Gujarati School The King fondly recalled his visit and received a hardback commemorative book The Society

Lieutenant, a frequent visitor to the centre President Dashrathbhai noted that the invitation reflects recogni-

nationally, and internationally

Global Cooperation House hosts Maha Shivratri celebration with Raj Yoga Exhibition

Sustainer

Rajchandra Mission)

R e p r e s e n t i n g t h e

J a i n s a n d S i k h s w e r e

D h a r a m p u r ( U K ) a n d

Gopal Bhachu The ceremony included a ribbonc u t t i n g , b e l l - r i n g i n g , and Sister Jaymini Patel explaining the symbolism of the deepak and rose, emphasising meditation on God as Light Guests e x p l o r e d t h e R a j Y o g a

A symbolic “letting go

Exhibition in multiple lang u a g e s , r e f l e c t i n g o n t h e soul and God, while a meditation space offered a serene environment for silent practice

Temple for darshan of the Shivalingam Each received a Power Card and moved to a packed auditorium, where S i s t e r J a g r u t i P a t e l w e lc o m e d a

Members and guests of the Brahma Kumaris engage in meditation session during the programme

Dr Ragasudha Vinjamuri performs at the event

Ice Shivaling displayed with Lord Shankar and Mata Parvatiji idols in the Haveli

Devotees gather to mark Maha Shivratri at Mandir

A beautifully decorated Shiva Lingam

King Charles III with Ishwerbhai and Urmila Tailor

Pujya Aksharvihari Swami and Pujya Gnankushal Swami performing abhishek of the Shivaling on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri

India’s push for ethical AI leadership

The inauguration of the India AI Impact Summit marks a b

Minister Modi's emphasis on ethical AI and job creation is timely However, addressing data privacy and equitable access remains crucial to prevent widening digital divides in society

a

India's warm welcome to French President Macron

Collaboration on AI, defence, and clean energy holds immense potential Yet, both nations must navigate global uncertainties to ensure mutual benefits and deeper economic integration for the future

Europe faces transatlantic strains as the rules-based order weakens, per The Hindu editorial Greater strategic autonomy and engagement with the Global South are essential Reducing over-reliance on the US will safeguard European interests amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and security challenges

The SHANTI Act s push for private nuclear players revives liability debates Financial viability poses a significant hurdle despite safety assurances Policymakers must prioritize robust safeguards and transparent mechanisms to build public trust before expanding atomic energy infrastructure ambitiously

Tarique Rahman's swearing-in as Bangladesh Prime Minister opens a new democratic chapter India should foster constructive dialogue to strengthen bilateral relations Addressing minority concerns and border issues thoughtfully will promote regional stability and mutual prosperity in South Asia

I

demonstrates firm maritime vigilance Preventing illicit oil transfers protects national security and global sanctions integrity Enhanced surveillance in exclusive economic zones sends a strong message against evasion tactics in international waters

TS Karthik

Enlightening essays

I write to commend CB Patel’s essays in “As I See It ” As Editor-in-Chief, his style of writing and the subjects he chooses are consistently thoughtful and engaging

The field he is in gives him opportunities to reflect on his 53-year journey and to share his varied experiences in print with your readers He has been privileged to meet the needs of the migrant community through newspaper publication and to connect with people from all walks of life It must be a very satisfying experience

I particularly enjoyed his essay on 60 years in the UK It is always rewarding to see a journey of success, achieved with no doubt a great deal of struggle and determination, presented so compellingly Personally, he has led a life of quality that many can only aspire to His work exemplifies giving back to society, and he has done so with dignity

Every individual should try to write their own story; it will no doubt interest family and friends and may even inspire them

At this juncture, I am reminded of celebrating my 50 years in the UK on 25 August 2025, shortly before Asian Voice held a competition It gave me the opportunity to submit my entry, and upon returning from India, I was pleased to see my name among the eight chosen entries

I had the pleasure of meeting him in person during the summer of 2024 and was amazed at his ability to recall the community event he attended back in 1986 (21 November, to be precise)

I am a curious reader and read widely, often sharing experiences and recommending books to others Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body

Please continue to write your essays and enlighten your readers

“When we leave from here our creation will remain, we do not know what we have created, but whatever we have created is wonderful” – Poet Makarand Dave (translated from Gujarati)

Jay Vala

Remembering Sarla Maheshwari

My heartfelt condolences on the passing of Sarla Maheshwari, one of the most sober and dignified voices in journalism and among the finest news presenters of our time We remember her as a noble soul whose narration and soothing voice will never fade away She inspired generations of broadcasters with her professional integrity and linguistic finesse She became a household name in the 1980s and 1990s, when Doordarshan dominated India’s news space She delivered Hindi bulletins for nearly three decades, from 1976 to 2005, admired for her flawless diction and calm authority Beginning her career while pursuing a PhD at Delhi University, she went on to define credibility for an entire generation of news anchors Her contributions helped define an era when Doordarshan held sway over the nation's airwaves Though private channels later changed the landscape, her composed style remains a benchmark for aspiring anchors May the Almighty grant her a place at His lotus feet and give strength to her family members to bear this irreparable loss

Jubel D’Cruz

British-Indian writer challenges India’s OCI cancellation

The Delhi High Court has

u p he l d I n d i a ’ s s t a n c e agai nst B ritish- Indian write r a n d a c t i v i s t A m ri t Wils on, noting that i t c ann ot allow the coun try to be c ritici sed on international p l a tf o r m s , r e p or t s B a r & B ench

J u s t i c e P u r u s h a i n d r a K u m a r K a u r a v m a d e t h e comments after reviewing a s e a l e d r e p o r t f r o m t h e Union government detaili n g t h e r e a s o n s f o r c a n -

c e l l i n g W i l s o n ’ s O v e r s e a s Citizen of India (OCI) card

The OCI status allows foreigners of Indian origin to l i v e a n d w o r k i n I n d i a indefinitely, and its revocation effectively bars entry

The judge has directed the government to submit further responses to Wilson’s p e t i t i o n c h a l l e n g i n g t h e cancellation, according to Live Law

The 82-year-old activist argued that the cancellat

u n l a w f u

e w i t h o u t proper consideration Her l a w y e r , A d

p Pais, told the court that the s h o w

only a tweet, an article on

d that none of Wilson’s published work, which includes

Women in Britain (2006), could be considered antiIndia

T h e c a s e h a s b e e n adjourned for further hearing on 27 August

Wilson’s case reflects a broader pattern In recent

years, several British acad e m i c s a n d I n d i a n - o r i g i n a c t i v i s t s , i n c l u d i n g Francesca Orsini of SOAS, K s h a m a S a w a n t , a n d N i t a s h a K a u l o f t h e University of Westminster, have alleged being denied entry to India despite valid v i s a s , r a i s i n g q u e s t i o n s about the treatment of diasp o r a a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l scholars visiting the country

W i l s o n ’ s w o r k h a s f o c u s e d o n r a c e , g e n d e r , and South Asian politics, with publications in outlets i n c l u

Ceasefire Magazine

Elderly man dies following suspected cholera

Former Mayor jailed for concealing rape evidence

A f o rm e r L abo u r m a yo r has been conv icted of p erverting the course o f justice after assisting h er son in hiding a mobile phone containing evid ence o f a teenag e g irl’s rape

Naheed Ejaz, 61, was found guilty following a six-day trial at Winchester Crown Court Her son, 41year-old Diwan Khan, was simultaneously convicted of raping a 15-year-old girl in June 2024

Bracknell home on September 12, 2024, Ejaz stalled officers at the door for ninety seconds During this time, she and Khan spoke in Urdu to coordinate hiding his iPhone 14 Prosecutors revealed that Khan had drugged the victim with MDMA before filming the assault Body-worn footage captured Ejaz telling her son to "keep silent" after he mentioned the device Although Ejaz served as the Mayor of Bracknell Forest from 2023 to 2024, the council confirmed the crimes were committed in her personal life Ejaz resigned as a councillor in October 2024 following her arrest Both defendants remain in custody and are due to be sentenced at a later date, with the judge noting that Ejaz's mother's love had crossed into serious criminality

Millions of NHS workers to receive pay uplift

case to determine the exact s

a Preliminary tests indicated t h

spokesperson suggested it might be a non-toxigenic strain that does not typically cause the classic disease H i s t o r i

borne illness in the 1800s, b

u

l l y non-existent in the UK for over a century The incident has caused significant alarm due to the rarity of such infections in modern Britain

The U K Government anno unced that m ore than 1 4 m illion NHS staff will receiv e a 3 3% p ay rise starting this Ap ril Health Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed the award follows the full recommendation of the NHS Pay Review Body This move marks t h e f i r s t t i m e i n s i x y e a r s t h a t healthcare professionals, including nurses, midwives, and porters, will see an increase at the very start of the financial year Streeting highlighted that the award sits above the 2 2% inflation forecast by the Office for Budget Responsibility for the 2026-27 period, framing it as a realterms gain

However, the announcement sparked immediate backlash from major health unions Leaders from Unison and the Royal College of Nursing criticised the figure, arguing it remains below current inflation rates and fails to address a decade of wage stagnation Unions expressed frustration that thousands of low-paid workers will see much of their increase absorbed by the rising legal minimum wage While the Department of Health and Social Care maintains that the timely delivery demonstrates commitment to the workforce, union representatives are now meeting to discuss potential industrial action, warning that the award will not solve the ongoing recruitment and retention crisis

Terrorism Policing London

studen

The incident occurred at approximately 12:30 pm on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, when the suspect allegedly scaled a wall to enter the premises in disguise Once inside, he reportedly sprayed a n u n k n o

before stabbing a 13-year-old boy in a first-floor classroom and a 12-year-old boy on the ground floor Both victims were rushed to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries and remain in a stable condition F

Amrit Wilson

Naheed Ejaz

Faith and devotion unite community at Exeter Mahashivratri celebration

T welfth Mahash ivratri celebration w as observ ed with d eep devotion and spiritual ferv our at Om Dev oneshw ar M ah adev S hi valay, loc ated

w

U niv ersity T rust Hospital in Exeter, Devon

o

Marking over a decade

featured a special Abhishek and prayer ceremony with 12 Shivlings These sacred Shivlings were brought from Varanasi, India, the revered abode of Lord Vishwanath, adding a profound spiritual significance to the occasion

The celebrations began with the chanting of sacred

including Om, Shiv Gayatri,

ceremony, accompanied by

names of Lord Shiva and

“Om Namah Shivaya ”

The gathering conclud-

diyas, and the distribution of prasad to attendees The event was warmly attended by hospital staff, their fami-

wider community, reflecting the inclusive and devotional spirit of the celebration

Heathrow could lose its lead as Europe’s busiest airport

Heathrow A irport record ed

i t s b u si es t J a nu ar y o n reco rd, hand ling 6 5 m illion p as seng ers acr os s i ts f ou r

terminals, a 2 2% increase on the previou s year

I n 2 0 2 5 , t h e a i r p o r t served 84 5 million passengers, just 0 1 million more

t h a n I s t a n b u l A i r p o r t , underscoring the tight competition for Europe’s busiest hub

Thousands gather in London for powerful Bhajan Jam celebration

dev otional m usic ev ent that

contempo rary experience

u

together participants ranging from toddlers to a 98year-old, all seated side by side chanting ancient bhajans The immersive format e

sent to sing, clap and participate, creating what organise

space for reflection, joy and connection

C

D e s p i t e t h i s g r o w t h , Heathrow’s chief executive, Thomas Woldbye, warned that the airport could lose its crown unless expansion plans are completed “It is critical to finish expansion, or we risk losing our status as Europe’s busiest airport later this year, ” he said The airport’s expansion has entered a preparatory phase but faces regulatory h u r d l e s T h e D e p a r t m e n t for Transport is expected to p u b l i s h i t s d r a f t A i r p o r t National Policy Statement t h i s y e a r , o u t l i n

made At the same time, the

(CAA) will release its long-

Heathrow’s plans for a third

runway

Global aviation services

worldwide, has joined the Heathrow Reimagined cam-

and fundamental reform” of

expansion decisions will be

model

Government launches consultation on Smoking Ban

T h e U K Go v e rnm ent h a s launched a 12-week public consultation aimed at banning sm oking and v ap ing in key outdoor locations across England

NHS's focus toward the prev e n t i o n o f a v

hand smoke

v o t i o n a l singer Bhavik Haria, the init i a t i v e a i m s t o r e i m a g i n e b h a j a n s n o t a s a p e r f o rmance but as a co-created spiritual experience Haria said, “Bhajan Jam

exactly as they are; to sing,

U n d e r t h e p r o p o s e d m e a s u r e s , l i g h t i n g u p o r using e-cigarettes would be p r o h i b i t

d

'

n d

p

s c h o o l grounds, and outside hospitals The move forms a cent r a l p i l l a r o f t h e

G

medically vulnerable people gather, the Government has n

u

hospitality settings, such as p u b b

d e n s a n d restaurant terraces, following concerns from the business sector

A d d i t i o n a l l y , t h e p r op o s a l s i n c l u d e e x t e n d i n g

e x i s t i n g i n d o o r s m o k i n g bans to cover vaping and heated tobacco products in workplaces and on public transport Vaping in private v e h i c l e s c a r r y i n g c h i l d r e n under the age of 18 would also be outlawed, mirroring the 2015 legislation for traditional cigarettes

T h e c o n s u l t a t i o n w i l l run until May 8, with any s u b s e q u e n t r e g u l a t i o n s requiring a minimum sixmonth notice period before enforcement begins

UK’s South must take migrants, says Danish minister

P arts of Eng land with low eth nic d iversity should take their sh are of m ig rants, a D an i sh m i ni s ter h a s s ugg ested

K a a r e D y b v a d B e k ,

D e n m a r k ’ s e m p l o y m e n t minister, said he found it “curious” that some north-

e r n a r e a s w e r e h i g h l y diverse while parts of the

s o u t h r e m a i n e d l a r g e l y homogeneous, calling such

s e p a r a t i o n

S p e a k i n g a t a P o l i c y

E x c h a n g e e v e n t i n Westminster, he argued that segregating towns and cities based on ethnicity or religion contradicts the principle of equal rights Having

v i s i t e d r e g i o n s s u c h a s

S o m e r s e t a n d D o r s e t , h e asked why residents there s

migration Bek, a member of Denmark’s centre-left Social Democratic Party, has overseen a shift in Danish immigration policies, combining

progressive reforms on climate and healthcare Denmark enforces strict c

claimants, including financial and language requirements, and has tough integration measures, including

blocks where over half of

Western backgrounds Bek defended the approach, saying such estates exacerbate social problems and hinder integration He stressed that migration must be democratically controlled by both centre-left and centre-right

concerns, warning that failure to do so risks populist politics

Bhajan Jam London

Bhavik Haria

Kaare Dybvad Bek

O N L I N E S A F E T Y L A W S

T I G H T E N A S T E E N S C A L L F O R B A L A N C E

In today’s world, screens are no l onger opt ional, they are everpresent From t he momen t we w ake to t he moment we fall asl eep, t ec hnology shapes our rout ines, simplifying everything from orderin g food and managing work to control ling our homes with the t ap of a b ut ton Even somet hing as simpl e as t urning on a light no l onger requires us to move

But while the internet makes life more convenient, it also brings new risks For teenagers, in particular, the online world is not an addition to life, it is life as they have always known it Social media, messaging apps, and online platforms are woven into their daily existence Experts warn that this constant connectivity is taking a toll, contributing to rising anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional distress

Young people themselves acknowledge the impact A survey by the Royal Society for Public Health, which asked 14to 24-year-olds about their online experiences, found that

platforms such as Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram were linked to increased feelings of depression, anxiety, poor body image, and loneliness

Alongside this come darker influences: misogyny, racism, hate speech, and extremist subcultures that can shape how young minds see themselves and others For many teenagers,

the internet has become a kind of “second parent,” quietly influencing their beliefs, confidence, and identity

Recognising the scale of this challenge, the government has announced sweeping new measures to strengthen online protections Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged urgent action to tackle emerging threats from social media and

Government pledges faster action

Starmer, a father of two teenagers, has said the changes reflected the urgency many parents feel “A s a d ad , I understand the worries p arents face about keep ing their children safe o nline,” h e said

“Technology is moving fast, and the law must keep up Britain will be a leader, not a follower, on online safety The action we took on Grok showed that no platform gets a free pass We are closing dangerous loopholes and preparing to go further ”’

As part of these plans, Starmer has promised to take action on young people’s access to social media within “months, not years ” However, he clarified that this may not mean a complete ban for under-16s, but rather stronger protections, something teenagers themselves say they want: to feel safe online without being entirely restricted

Shiv Bh att, 1 7, discussed his views with Asian Voice, sharing how social media has played a significant role in his life “I would say it has influenced me more positively than negatively ”

The internet has helped Shiv find a community where he can belong He said, “Growing up in London, in a predominantly white area, there wasn’t much happening for Indians or for Hindus Through social media, I was able to connect with people like me and learn from them ”

He has been able to explore topics such as history, religion, theology, philosophy, and even politics; and broaden his perspective and viewpoints “Just this summer, I created my own online youth community called the Hindu Youth Society It brings together Hindu young people from around the world

Panav Bindal, 1 8, was initially drawn to video games, but social media soon sparked his creativity and opened his eyes to new possibilities

Using online platforms, he taught himself coding and joined digital communities where he learned new skills, helped others, and even organised charity events These experiences shaped his career ambitions, and he now plans to study Computer Science

He believes that without social media, he might have struggled to find his direction

According to him any further restrictions or limitations would only stop honest people who

Social media has allowed me to expand my reach beyond London or even England to a global audience”, he expressed Shiv is vehemently against banning social media for under16s “In my view, by the age of at least 13, young people are mature enough to have a basic understanding of what is right and wrong when they see

something online”, he said

“They need a certain level of freedom, and social media, for the most part, is something they use to socialise, learn, and have fun”, he added

He does, however, agree that there should be regulation on social media He said, “I had parental controls on my social media until I was 16, and I think that kind of regulation is important Social media isn’t just entertaining or light-hearted it can also contain distressing or harmful content

“For example, until I was about 15, I had a one-hour daily time limit on platforms like TikTok and Instagram That encouraged me to spend time on other activities, such as reading or going out with friends, and it also reduced my exposure to potentially harmful content ”

really need social media He also expressed that the older generation should include the perspectives of the young people in any decision that is being made “Just banning 'major' social media platforms like Australia is going to do more harm than good, by pushing children on newer platforms who are less moderated and more unsafe This policy, in my mind is all smokes no fire”, he expressed “Think of social media like a car- yes it can be dangerous but if the driver is taught how to use it effectively then it can be used for good In my opinion, under-16s need to be taught about the benefits

and

to use it safely- not take it away ” , he adds

artificial intelligence

Addressing parents and young people, Starmer said ministers would move “at pace ” to safeguard children in a digital landscape defined by powerful platforms, addictive design, and rapidly evolving technologies

C rackdown on AI chatbots an d legal loopholes

Central to the announcement is a crackdown on illegal content generated by AI chatbots The government will close a legal loophole to ensure all chatbot providers are fully bound by duties under the Online Safety Act, meaning firms could face penalties if they fail to prevent illegal material

The move follows recent government intervention over non-consensual intimate images circulating on Elon Musk’s platform Grok, which led to the feature being withdrawn

Ministers are also taking new legal powers designed to enable faster action once the children’s online wellbeing consultation concludes The changes aim to avoid delays caused by the need for fresh primary legislation every time technology evolves

Pot ential limits on social media features

The proposals could pave the way for measures such as minimum age requirements for social media and restrictions on features like infinite scrolling, which critics say encourage excessive use

While sharing nude images of children is already illegal, the government will consult on stronger safeguards to prevent children from sending or receiving such content in the first place The consultation will also examine wider risks, including children’s access to AI chatbots, the use of VPNs to bypass safety protections, and whether the age of digital consent should be changed

In cases of a child’s death, new protections could ensure relevant online data is preserved to support investigations

Alongside legislative changes, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology has launched a new campaign, You Won’t Know Until You Ask, offering guidance on safety settings, conversation tips, and advice on tackling harmful content

A full consultation on children’s digital wellbeing will launch next month, with ministers promising it will be shaped by the experiences of parents and young people

The measures mark a significant shift in the UK’s approach, as ministers seek to keep pace with technological change and strengthen protections for children growing up online

The rise of AI friendships

Nearly a third of 11–16-year- olds who use AI chatb ots see the m as frien ds, new re search by Vodaf on e reveals

Around 49% say this is because chatbots are trustworthy, 65% find them easy to talk to, and 39% believe they understand emotions like people do

With 81% of 11–16-year-olds using AI chatbots, and 42% doing so daily, young users are moving beyond homework and research, turning to chatbots for guidance on friendships (23%) and mental health (16%) One in three admits sharing things they wouldn’t tell parents, teachers, or friends

Experts warn that treating chatbots like humans can put children at risk, as these interactions lack genuine empathy and challenge Relying on chatbots for connection may increase isolation, spread biased advice, and hinder the development of real-world social skills

Schools spend 100 hours policing phones

Sma rtphone poli ci es in Engli sh se condary schools are a “huge drai n ” on resource s, w ith staf f spe ndi ng over 10 0 hours a wee k enforci ng restrictions, re sea rch by Birmingham Uni versity has found

Teachers, teaching assistants, caretakers, and receptionists all help police pupils’ phone use, recording incidents, overseeing detentions, and communicating with parents The study, published in BMJ Mental Health, analysed 20 schools- 13 with restrictive policies requiring phones to be turned off or handed in, and 7 with permissive policies allowing use during breaks

Schools with restrictive policies spend an average of 102 hours weekly enforcing rules, while permissive schools spend 108 hours, costing roughly £94 more per pupil per year

The findings come as the government advises schools to adopt phone-free policies throughout the school day, including breaks, with Ofsted inspecting implementation The NASUWT union has called for a statutory requirement to lock away phones

Despite policies, 58% of secondary pupils report phones being used without permission, rising to 65% among key stage four students

Sir Keir Starmer and Sadiq Khan discuss concerns about social media with parents

Shiv Bhatt

Panav Bindal

Naz Shah to launch powerful memoir in Bradford

Bra dford We st M P N az S hah will ret urn to t he he ar t of he r

c o n s t it ue n cy t o l a u n ch he r

, ‘ Hon our ed’

The event, hosted by the B

(BLF) at the historic Midland

Day It serves as a one-off pre-

which is scheduled to run from July 3 to 12

The launch is expected to be a significant moment for both the city and the national literary scene Described as an unflinching

Shah’s journey from a childhood defined by trauma to her current role as a prominent figure in British politics The session will feature a conversation with Shah about the themes of resilience, faith, and justice that p e r

, guests are invited to participate in iftar, the

n g Ramadan, reflecting the MP's deep roots in the local community Ancestr y an d ea rly life

Naseem Naz Shah was born in Bradford on November 13, 1973 to parents of Kashmiri P a k i s t a n i d e s

e marked by severe domestic instability When she was just six years old, her father abandoned the family to marry a teenage neighbour, leaving her mother, Zoora Shah, to raise three children alone in extreme poverty The family moved 14 times in just two years

housing

Aged 12, Naz was sent to Pakistan to escape a violent abuser who had targeted her

predatory interest in her In Pakistan, she was forced into an arranged marriage with a

returned to the UK, but her

when her mother was jailed for

Mohammed Azam, whom she had poisoned after years of physical and sexual torture

The cam paigner becomes a leader

Before her political career, Shah spent 12 years campaigning for her mother's release, eventually securing a reduction in her sentence She worked in various roles, including as a carer, an NHS Commissioner, and chair of the mental health charity Sharing Voices

Bradford

In 2015, she made national headlines by

Bradford West for the Labour Party Since then, she has held several Shadow Cabinet roles, including Shadow Minister for Crime

Women and Equalities In November 2023, she resigned from the frontbench to vote for a ceasefire in Gaza, demonstrating the same independent conviction that has defined her life Today, as a mother of three, she remains a formidable voice for vulnerable communities and a symbol of survival against the odds

UK women's sport hits record highs

A r eport re leas ed by the Wome n's Sport T rust con firms that women's s port i n the UK ach ieved ove r 10,000 hours of an nual li nea r cov erage in 2025 for the firs t time

This surge in visibility resulted in a record 397 million viewing hours, surpassing the previous high of 384 million set in 2023 While Sky Sports provided 69% of the total broadcast hours, 79% of all viewing hours were driven by free-to-air channels, illustrating the massive reach of accessible broadcasting

The UEFA Women's Euro final stood as the year's pinnacle, attracting 16 22 million

viewers across the BBC and ITV In total, 48 million people watched women's sport in 2025, up from 45 2 million in 2024 Despite comprising only 8 per cent of

demonstrating its high efficiency in converting exposure into audience engagement

CEO Tammy Parlour noted that the primary challenge now remains transforming this major-event visibility into consistent, year-round domestic viewing habits to secure long-term commercial growth

Top casting directors awarded NFTS fellowships

exceptional contributions to the industry and their role in co-founding the school's inaugural casting certificate course in 2020 Jay’s extensive portfolio includes Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and The Grand Budapest Hotel, while Baig

Adolescence The pair will be celebrated on 6 March 2026 at the NFTS graduation ceremony, following

Sisters launch Shape weight loss brand

E n tr ep re ne u rs M an dy , S andy, and Saminda Sangh

breaking wellness brand

Developed in response

, t h e Nottingham-based start-up provides a holistic support system for the 1 5 million Britons currently prescribed GLP-1 medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro T h e s e r v i c e a d d r e s s

-

scriptions with expert guidance on nutrition, exercise, and emotional health By m o v i n g b e y o n d q u i c k - f i x solutions, the brand aims to f o s t e r s u s t a i n a b l e b e h a v i o u r a l c h a n g e s Currently operating as an online service with licensed p h a r m a c i s t s , S h a p e ⁸ i s preparing to open the UK’s f i r s t d

w e i g h t - l o s s c l i n i c i n Nottingham later this year to provide face-to-face professional structure

Dame Antonia Romeo set for cabinet secretary

P ri m e M i ni s te r S i r K ei r

S ta rm e r i s ex p ec ted to ap p o in t Da m e A nt o ni a Romeo as the first fem ale h e ad o f th e

Serv ice, fo llowing

Febr

regarding Lord Mandelson’s

Menopause tech

The g lobal men opause mark e t is pr oj

i d e x p a n s i o n , f r e q u e n t l y t e r m e d t h e “ menopause gold rush,” is driven by a surge in hightech wearable devices and health applications designed to alleviate symptoms for an h i s t o r i c a l l y u n d e r s e r v e d demographic Major corpor a t e e n t i t i e s , i n c l u d i n g

B a y e r , U n i l e v e r V e n t u r e s , and Tesco, have emerged as leading investors, alongside i n s t i t u t i o n a l s u p p o r t f r o m

o r g a n i s a t i o n s s u c h a s t h e Gates Foundation

led the Ministry of Justice and the trade department She impressed Starmer by managing the small boats c r i s i

tion While Wormald negotiates a

r

Innovative hardware like the £229 99 MyCelsius cooli n g b r a c e l e t i s n o w b e i n g m a r k e t e d t o c o m b a t h o t flushes by regulating body temperature through instant c o o l i n g t e c h n o l o g y However, a February 2026 study by University College London (UCL), published in t h e j o u r n a l P o s t R e p r o d u c t i v

H

a l t h , h a

s e d c o n c e r n s r e g a r d i n g the lack of regulation in this s e c t o r R e s e a r c h e r s f o

fied support for profit

devices like the Oura Ring are utilised for monitoring hormonal cycles, specialists advocate for a focus on

Naz Shah

Jina Jay Shaheen

Dame Antonia Romeo

Manish Chauhan

Subhasini Naicker

Reversediversity is a social phenomenon where majority communities live in areas dominated by minority populations, creating a unique cultural and social dynamic.

Manish Chauhan draws inspiration from Leicester upbringing

Bradford gets a boost from novelist AA Dhand

Best-selling cri me no v eli st

A A Dh and is backing a new initiativ e desig ned to uncover and nurture th e next generation of television writers in Brad ford

hobby a serious direction I was always aware of my Indianness, which shaped my early work It was only in my twenties, after moving to London, that I could view Leicester with enough distance to set my fiction there ”

These neighbourhoods reflect a blend of traditions, languages, and lifestyles, offering insights y family of her own in the UK Over the days that followed, I found myself thinking about her What might become of her? What would happen if she decided she didn’t like the life she was given? How might she escape?”

noticed the narratives begin to speak to each other When writing, I tend to start with something I am familiar with In the case of Belgrave Road, this was the setting and my own cultural upbringing What I then like to do is to branch out into something less familiar, the lives of Somalis in Leicester, specifically those of asylum seekers This combination keeps the k li I t b t

On navigating reverse diversity, Manish said, “Growing up in Leicester, I was surrounded by people of similar racial and socioeconomic backgrounds It wasn’t a diverse b i i b t

Dhand, best known for his Harry Virdee detective novels set in the city, has signed on as an ambassador for Write Across Bradford, a talent development scheme run by BBC Writers The programme will select up to 12 emerging creatives to take part in an intensive summer of workshops, masterclasses

aimed at opening doors into the television industry

Over the course of eight w

develop original ideas for

empathy and discovery ”

“Growing up in an identity-less bubble offered empowering invisibility

He added, “The second thing that happened was that I found myself reading a lot about the migrant crossings that were taking place from Africa into Europe I was particularly interested in exploring the reasons that compelled people to make the treacherous journey Further, I was interested in what happened once a person reached their ‘dream destination’ and, more widely, what constituted ‘home’ Leicester, where the novel is set, is home to many such people As the son of immigrants, I found both stories equally compelling and, after some time,

Manish emphasised that growing up in Leicester shaped his identity and inspired his writing He said, “For many years, I had no specific identity; like my schoolmates, I blended into a sea of brown faces In that sense, those years were empowering, allowing me to live without fear regarding my race or heritage However, I stood out when it came to being laddish, as Leicester was traditional and non-diverse, with rigid gender roles that singled out anyone different Perhaps being singled out turned me inward, into an observer, and eventually a writer I initially wrote to gain popularity, but at seventeen, formal creative writing classes gave my

shedding layers over time, so the idea of preserving one feels like a fiction born of fear We were told to ‘ go back home,’ but England is home, where many of us were born, grew up, and contributed Watching the marchers only strengthened my voice and my sense of belonging, it is mine to define, not theirs ”

On shifts in public sentiment, he added, “I’m not sure attitudes have changed, but social media has made them more visible Anti-immigrant sentiment has existed since the first waves of immigration Post-Brexit policies replacing European immigrants with brown and black ones may amplify this bias The impact on my community is complex, some immigrants voted Brexit, and others wouldn’t Ultimately, it comes down to whether a person chooses fear or empathy ”

new TV drama while gaining

craft and business of screenwriting

Dhand recently helped bring Bradford’s stories to

ducer on the show

Jessica Loveland, Head

Commissioning, said Dhand embodies the spirit of the initiative “We’re thrilled to be working with AA Dhand as ambassador for the pro-

only is he an acclaimed writer, but he has consistently championed Bradford’s creative community

“His work is deeply rooted in place, voice and identity - exactly the values at the h

s s Bradford He brings a generosity and enthusiasm that make him an inspiring figure for emerging writers ”

‘Sweetmeats’ brings tender South Asian love story to the Bush Theatre

A mov ing new play explo ring love, health and second chances in later life h as prem i er ed i n L o nd o n

Na

directs ‘ Sweetmeats ’ at th e

Bush Theatre The production opened on 7 F ebruary and runs until 21 M arch

Written by Karim Khan,

w h o s e p r e v i o u s w o r k includes ‘Brown Boys Swim’ at Soho Theatre, the narration tells an intimate and o f t e n h u m o r o u s s t o r y o f u n e x p e c t e d r o m a n c e b e t w e e n t w o o l d e r S o u t h

Asian adults who meet at a t y p e 2 d i a b e t e s s u p p o r t group

T h e p l a y c e n t r e s o n

Hema, a woman focused on

managing her diabetes and strict lifestyle, who meets the free-spirited Liaquat at a s u p p o r t g r o u p A s h e inspires her to embrace joy, she helps stabilise him, and their growing bond rekindles unexpected feelings of love

‘ S w e e t m e a t s ’ e x p l o r e s themes rarely seen on stage: ageing, chronic illness and romance within the older S o u t h A s i a n c o m m u n i t y , with warmth, humour and emotional honesty The production shines a light on companionship and the universal human desire for connection, regardless of age

Kathi-Chandra, who is also the artistic director of

Natasha Kathi-Chandra

T a r a T h e a t r e , b r i n g s h e r experience of championing diverse British Asian stories to the production, guiding this tender exploration of love and vulnerability

Tara Menon’s draws on disaster to tell a

A p o w e rf u l n ew d eb u t exploring grief, surv ival and friend ship across continents an d c ata st ro p h e i s s et to make its global release this spring

‘Under Water’, the first novel by Tara Menon, has a l r e a d y g e n e r a t e d s i g n i f ic a n t i n t e r n a t i o n a l b u z z , with translation rights sold i n 3 2 l a n g u a g e s a h e a d o f publication on 12 March, an unusually strong reception for a debut work

Edited by the same publishing team behind landmark literary successes such as A Little Life by Hanya

Y a n a g i h a r a a n d S h u g g i e Bain by Douglas Stuart, the novel is being hailed as one o f t h e m o s t a n t i c i p a t e d releases of the year

human story

Tara Menon

U n d e r W a t e r f o l l o w s M a r i s s a , w h o m o v e s t o a small Thai island after the d e a t h o f h e r m o t h e r a n d f o r m s a d e e p f r i e n

l e

Their childhood, shaped by the beauty of coral reefs and the freedom of the sea, is s h a t t e r e d b y t

forced to confront the trauma she has carried and the

after

found

to

which separates them Years later, living in New

Now an Assistant Professor at Harvard University, she is already an established literary critic and scholar With its sweeping scope

Financial strain hits UK art icon

potentially af fe cti n g f ree ex h i bi ti o ns , ticketed s hows, and international loans of artworks, wh ile ticket p rices may rise Rising operational costs and stagnant income mean

Building skills to power London’s growth

Cllr Krupesh Hirani

Assembly Member for Brent and Harrow

Reflecting on my recent visit to the Londo n S choo l of

Sci ence and Tech no lo gy (LSS T) and i ts impressive new co nstruction training centre, I was struck by the reminder that Lo ndon’ s future is in the hands of skilled labou r Th is reminder i s especially meaningfu l given th at many in ou r community have h ad lo ng successful careers in the co nstruction indu stry

London is in the middle of a housing crisis, the effects of which are being felt across every community in our c i t y S o a r i n

s a n d London’s growing size and population every year has placed enormous strain on the current housing market Having said that, this could be seen as an opportunity

The construction sector might just be the key to addressing these challenges Building more homes is essential to not just increasing the number of homes but bringing down prices and improving affordability At the same time, construction is a key driver of economic growth through its part in supporting jobs, local businesses and London’s wider economy

Yet as the demand for new homes rises, so too does the demand for skilled and experienced workers Many construction firms, of which I know includes businesses within our community, are struggling to recruit the skilled employees they need, slowing down projects and increasing costs This is why opportunities like the new LSST construction training centre are so valuable

The centre provides young people and adults with practical, hands-on training which helps them develop the skills and experience necessary to begin working and progressing within the construction industry It opens the door to steady, long-term jobs, whilst also giving employers access to the skilled workers they urgently need

This new training centre is part of a wider effort from the Mayor to help Londoners move into skilled industries where jobs are plentiful Given our community’s deep involvement in London’s infrastructure and economic life, it is vital that we seize the opportunities created through this investment

I know from speaking with many of you that there is real concern about the future of your businesses with the current pressure on the market With news like this, we can be confident that the future of our industry, and city, is in good hands For families who have built their livelihoods through the construction industry, initiatives like these mean clear pathways for the next generation by granting access to qualifications, career progression and job security

Row over NHS-linked guidance on discouraging cousin marriage

Hospital staff should not aut omatical ly discourage first cousin marriages, a government-fun ded NHS monitoring board has said, despite concerns about increased genet ic risks

Guidance from the National Child Mortality Database (NCMD) states it is “unacceptable to discourage close relative marriage in a blanket way ” , arguing the risk of genetic disorders is only “slightly increased”

Instead, genetic counsellors should work with couples and families to provide balanced information and discuss future marriage choices

Marriage between first cousins, more common in some

Rebellion mounts over Mahmood’s migration crackdown

Ho m e S e cr eta ry S h a ban a

Mah mood is facing a significant backbench revo lt over plans to double the waiting ti me fo

m igrants seeking permanent residency

MPs, supported by the UNISON trade union and 33 civil society organisations, issued

deeply unfair reforms to be scrapped or watered down

The proposed earned settlement model would extend

the baseline qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from five to

ten years, with social care workers potentially facing a 15-year wait

The rebellion centres on the retrospective application of these rules to 2 2 million people who arrived during t h e B

between 2021 and 2024 In

Neil Duncan-Jordan, critics b

British, arguing

unfairly

Pakistani communities and other parts of the world, remains legal in Britain While experts say such unions can raise the likelihood of genetic conditions, the NCMD notes that around 90 per cent of children born to related parents are unaffected

The NCMD, based at the University of Bristol and funded with £3 5 million in public money, issued the guidance in 2023 Meanwhile, NHS England is expanding specialist services for higher-risk couples However, public opinion remains divided Polling by YouGov found 75 per cent of Britons support banning first cousin marriage, while only 9 per cent support keeping it legal

remains 100 per cent committed, insisting the overhaul is essential to maintain public consent for the asylum system following record migration levels

The Home Office argues that settlement is a "privilege, not a right," but rebels warn the move could exacerbate the social care crisis, which currently suffers from 110,000 vacancies

families who have already integrated into UK society

Students start initiative for real-world finance

formers Ritik Mukherjee,

, started the Aspire Project last term while completing

reate Aspire was launched at King’s College School in

Rao

preparation

The trio developed the curriculum, recruited ten mentors, and produced a 20-page safeguarding policy, aiming to extend the programme to local state s

ment, economic thinking, and digital skills Students w i l l a l s o

h o o l s T h e c o u r s e f e atures interactive 45-minute classes on money manage-

investment risks, use simulators to practice investing, and be cautioned against unreliable financial advice Aspire is supported by

industry figures including Ahana Banerjee, John Flint, a

The project aims to equip young people with essential financial literacy, conf

for modern life

Two men jailed for life over planned Manchester terror attack

Two me n have be en ja iled f or li f e a f t e r p l a n n i n g a maj or te rrorist attack targ e ti n g Gr e a te r

Ma nche ster’s Jewi sh commun ity, w hich wa s stopped b y a n u n de r cov er op e rative

Walid Saadaoui, 38, of

A b r a m , W i g a n ,

ordered to serve

mini-

Amar Hussein, 52, of no fixed address, received at least 26 years Saadaoui’s brother, Bilel Saadaoui, 37, o f H i n d l e y , W i g a n , w a s jailed for six years for failing to disclose information about the plot

T h e t r i o d e

e d a l l c h a r g e s d u r i n g a t h r e em o n t h t r i a l , i n w h i c h jurors were told they were Islamist extremists with a “visceral dislike” of Jewish people Saadaoui, a former

restaurant owner and hotel e n t e r t a i n e r , a r r a n g e d t o buy rifles and conducted reconnaissance on Jewish n u r s e r i e s , s c h o o l s , s y n ag o g u e s , a n d s h o p s T h e weapons supplier was an undercover officer known as Farouk, who infiltrated jihadist networks Saadaoui

Dover and secured a safe house in Bolton Saadaoui hero-worshipped IS terror-

Paris attacks A

o n C r o w

Court, Justice Wall said the attack “likely would have been

a n d H u s s e i n p l a n n e d t o disguise themselves as Jews and attack an antisemitism m a r c h b e f o r e t a r g e t i n g s u b u r b a n a r e a s n o r t h o f Manchester

The plot escalated after the outbreak of war in Gaza in October 2023 The pair carried out surveillance in

Narinder Kaur vs Laurence Fox case heads to trial

and

offenders’ register Fox, of Essex, was previously dismissed by GB News following controversial onair remarks about journalist Ava Evans He is also known for starring in ITV’s crime drama Lewis

Shabana Mahmood

Aneesh

Narinder Kaur

Walid Saadaoui (left) and Amar Hussein

Aryan Vedhara

Ritik Mukherjee

Community ‘heartbroken’ as long-standing Peterborough temple site sold

W o rs h i p p ers a t a H i nd u

t em p l e i n P e ter bo ro u g h

h av e said they are “heartbroken” at the p rospect of los-

i n g t h ei r sp i r it u al h o m e after th eir second attempt

to bu y th e site was unsuccessfu l

The Bharat Hindu Samaj Temple, which serves nearly 14,000 people, has operated from the city’s New England

C o m p l e x s i n c e 1 9 8 6

Recently, Peterborough City Council agreed to sell the site to an undisclosed bidder as part of efforts to balance its budget

Ekta Patel, the temple’s v

knocked on all doors” in a determined effort to secure the site, but were left feeling

“ d i s g r u n t l e d ” b y t h e o u tcome

M o h a m m e d J a m i l , t h e c o u n c i l ’ s c a b

n

m

m b e r for finance and corporate governance, said the authority recognised the strength of feeling within the community and would continue to engage with those affected “We fully understand the concerns of the Hindu community and will continue to w o r k w i t h t h e m a n d t h e

building’s other tenants,” he said

Located on Rock Road, the temple attracts worship-

Leicestershire Trustees had offered £1 3 million to purchase the site, which is also home to six other tenants, including the Peterborough Soup Kitchen The temple h a d b e e n i n n e g o t i a t i o n s with the council since 2011 and fundraising for several years

Patel said the decision came as a shock given the scale of public support “It’s a very emotional time for us T h e r e a

w o r d s t o describe how we truly feel,” she said “Many of our cong

lives to keeping this place running It is very difficult for them to lose it

Chaudhary said the sale represented more than a property transaction “It is a focal point of cultural and spiritua l l i f e c r e a t e d e n t i r e l y through community effort,” she said, adding that supporters across the country had rallied behind the temple

In a statement, the temple committee warned the impact would be “immediate and significant”, particul

s who risk losing a “crucial lifeline”

Jamil said the building was being sold with tenants i n p l a c e a n d t h e i r l e a s e rights would be protected

Ex-imam convicted of 21 sexual offences

A fo rm er i m am h as been

c o nv i ct ed o f 2 1 s ex u al o ffences after explo iting his p osition as a relig ious lead er and falsely claiming spiritual p owers to m anipulate and abuse g irls as yo ung as 12 Abdul Halim Khan, 54, o f O l d F o r d R o a d i n London, targeted multiple victims over an 11-year period between 2004 and 2015, according to Metropolitan Police Officers said he used his standing in the community to gain trust before subjecting women and children to sexual violence Khan, who served as an imam at a local mosque, persuaded victims to meet him alone in flats and secluded locations, claiming he needed to perform rituals to protect them from harm The Crown Prosecution Service

s a i d h e t o l d v i c t i m s h e

would become possessed or appear as a jinn, a supernatural spirit in Islamic belief, b e f o r e r a p i n g o

assaulting them

Prosecutors said the victims were left too frightened t

Khan’s threats that “black magic” could harm them or t

, prompting a police investigation

D

views, Khan denied the allegations, claiming they were fabricated as part of a cons p i r a c y a n d m o t i v a t e d b y revenge

He was charged on 16 March 2023 and, following a trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court, was found guilty on Friday, 13 February, 2026, of

counts of rape of a child under 13, four counts of sexual assault, two counts of

d under 13, and one count of assault by penetration

He has been remanded into custody ahead of sen-

Crown Court on May 14

Bogus boiler repairman jailed for theft

A bo g us bo i ler rep ai rm an w ho targeted vu lnerable resid ents acro ss the Mid land s h as been jailed Saqib Ali, 24, posed as a tradesman to access victims’ homes in Derby and Stokeon-Trent, stealing cash and attempting further thefts In one case, he took

Controversy

as ex- terror convict stands in local elections

local elections has

because of his past terrorism conviction Butt is running as an independent candidate in the Sparkhill ward of Birmingham

In 1999, he was convicted over a plot to bomb targets in Yemen and served five years in prison He has always denied the charges, claiming they were fabricated and that he was forced to confess His conviction is now legally spent, meaning he is allowed to stand for public office

His candidacy has divided opinion Some residents and critics say his past raises concerns about his suitability for a council role Butt has said he understands the reaction but wants voters to judge him on his plans to improve the area, including tackling crime and supporting young people

He is standing with the Independent Candidates Alliance, a group formed by local activists

Murder investigation launched after Suhail Choudry dies

A mu rd er investigation has been l au nc h ed a ft er S uhail C ho ud ry, 3 5, died in ho

targeted

S

H e w a s found with serious head injuries on Flasby Street in Keighley in the early hours of February 8 and died days later on February 11 West Yorkshire Police said a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody Two other men, aged 30 and 33, have been released on bail Police have launched a Major Incident Portal and are appealing for information and footage

Peace vigil in memory of Cllr Waseem Zaffar

Th e Lord M ayor of B ir m i ng h a m led tr ib u te s t o C ouncillo r Waseem

Z af fa r M BE at a peace vig il h eld in th e ci ty fo ll o w ing his sud den d eath at the age of 44

Cllr Zaffar died from a heart attack

w h i l e i n P a k i s t a n , where he had travelled after hearing of his uncle’s death Speaking at the vigil, the Lord Mayor, Zafar Iqbal MBE, departed from prepared remarks to reflect on a long-standing friendship with Cllr Zaffar and shared years in public life

Cllr Zaffar leaves behind his wife, Ayesha, and four sons Their youngest, Muhammad Shazain Waseem Zaffar, was born shortly after his death

I N B R I E F BIRMINGHAM FACES 50K HOUSING COMPLAINTS

Birmingham City Council has received more than 50,000 complaints about damp mould and condensation in the past five years, according to figures obtained through an FOI request by Midland Health The council recorded 50 513 complaints from tenants since 2021 Although it pledged £15 million to fix 4,000 severe cases, residents continue to report problems Damp and mould remain a major concern, with related health issues estimated to cost the NHS £1 4 billion annually

ONLY TWO CANDIDATES ATTEND HUSTINGS

The race to replace late councillor Manjula Sood on Leicester City Council has begun with eight candidates standing in the byelection However, only two attended a public hustings in Stoneygate organised by Active Muslim Leicester Residents were disappointed by the low turnout, with one calling it a “scandal Organisers said public meetings are important so voters can question candidates Conservative Rashmikant Joshi and Green candidate Aasiya Bora attended Other candidates, including those from Labour, Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats, did not attend with some citing last-minute issues or saying they were unaware of the event

BIN STRIKES EXTENDED

Striking bin workers in Birmingham have voted to extend their industrial action until September 2026, well beyond the city’s May local elections The dispute involves refuse staff and agency workers employed through Job & Talent, who are in conflict with Birmingham City Council over pay and contracts Sharon Graham general secretary of Unite said members remain more determined than ever” to secure a fair deal claiming some workers have been rehired on terms cutting pay by up to £8,000 The council disputes this saying fair offers have been made Councillor Majid Mahmood said most affected workers had accepted new roles, redeployment or voluntary redundancy

WARNING OVER FAKE £20 NOTES

Leicestershire Police have warned social media sellers to watch out for counterfeit cash after a rise in fake notes used on Facebook Marketplace Officers have received 16 reports this year, mostly involving high-value items such as phones, laptops, jewellery and a car Police say fake notes may have repeated serial numbers, spelling errors or feel different They urge sellers to check cash carefully or avoid cash altogether Bank of England also advises checking security features like colour-changing images and holograms BY-ELECTION

The Muslim Vote has endorsed the Green Party of England and Wales in the Gorton and Denton by-election, intensifying the contest ahead of the 26 February vote Labour Party, which has held the seat for over a century now faces a serious challenge despite winning more than 50% there in 2024 Both the Greens and Reform UK believe they could secure an upset victory

Abdul Halim Khan

Shahid Butt

Suhail Choudry

Professor Siddartha Khastgir

Head of Safe Autonomy, WMG, University of Warwick, UK

For a long ti me, Big Tec h companie s have pai nted a shi ny pic ture of how A I can m assi vely improve people’s lives, along with i ts technological advan cemen ts But who b enefits and how man y b enefits have become s econdary c on vers ations

A ddi tionally, the s afety of thes e AI advan cemen ts is b arely menti one d

In the Big Tech world, every new technology is assumed to be safe and for the greater good, until it isn’t But for high-risk physical AI systems like self-driving vehicles, robotics etc , we can’t chance our luck and hope everything will “play out fine” in the name of innovation! The consequences can be life changing, or even worse, life threatening Equally we can’t afford to create inequalities in our society by restricting access to such potentially beneficial AI systems to a chosen few

This week, as the world’s AI stalwarts descend in New Delhi for the India AI Impact Summit 2026, under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, the narrative of the conversations has broadened from AI Safety to AI Usage India has very thoughtfully and timely chosen the summit’s theme as“Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya” meaning “welfare for all, happiness for all” This has brought the concepts of democratisation and inclusivity of AI’s benefits at the heart of this year ’ s summit and the discussions

There is no denying that democratisation of AI has huge benefits and is a powerful ambition But with power, comes responsibility Democratisation enables access of AI’s power to the masses However, it puts the onus on the policymakers and the AI ecosystem to ensure safe use of this AI power by the masses Larger the scale, higher the risk of negative outcomes, if left unchecked For example,

Demystifying AI Impact: The Choice between AI Innovation and AI Safety?

deepfakes causing fraud or spreading misinformation

To tackle this, governments worldwide have adopted diverse tactics to regulate AI and its use The approaches vary across the intervention continuum from guidelines to stringent regulation (e g EU AI Act) Regardless of the approach, the fundamental questions remain unanswered: how you regulate or intervene in a fast-moving AI technology world; and can you drive global consensus in this endeavour

The speed of AI’s technology development has often been as an excuse or to pressurise to stop or dilute any regulation or guidelines

The EU Commission faced pressure from the US and other tech giants to dial down its AI Act, claiming that it will delay the development of cutting-edge AI technologies

Some justification for the delay to the EU AI Act has merit, as the processes directed by it can prove to be onerous for start-ups and small businesses, who may not have the resources of big organisations However, if they or Big Tech companies want to develop high-risk AI systems, the leeway is limited Yes, that does mean that the barrier to entry into the market is high, but so is the cost of life!

Physical AI systems like self-driving vehicles, will hit UK roads in the next 6-12 months Instead of de-regulating AI, I suggest the regulators consider proportional regulation To enable this, assessing the datasets used for training and testing of AI systems should be one mandatory requirement as it will not only ensure (in part) safety but also bias (lack of) and fairness, key principles of the EU AI Act and a theme for the summit

As I travel to Delhi to speak at the AI Impact Summit on the session on AI’s trustworthiness, I am left thinking, safety is not a choice, no matter how pioneering AI’s technological innovation might be

Celebrating ‘Sovereignty, Inclusivity and Innovation’

As A sian Voice (A V) g oes to p ri nt, g lo ba l l ea d ers h a v e rea ch e d I nd i a fo r t h e A I

Im pact Summ it 2026 From the UK, Deputy PM David L am m y and A I M in i st er

Kanishka Narayan are leading a h i g h- p ro fi le d eleg ation, h ighlighting Lo nd on ’ s role in sh api ng A I g ov ernan ce and s tr eng th en i ng ties w ith India’ s fast-g rowing d igital economy

E x - L o n d o n D e p u t y

Mayor Rajesh Agrawal, former UK PM Rishi Sunak and AV Columnist and former ‘Be The Change’ panellist, P r o f e s s o r S i d d a r t h a Khastgir (see p17) are also reportedly among the attendees

P r i m e M i n i s t e r

Narendra Modi outlined his vision for AI in a self-reliant

I n d i a , e m p h a s i s i n g sovereignty, inclusivity, and i n n o v a t i o n S p

n g t o ANI, he said India should be among the top three globally in AI consumption and creation, viewing it as a “forcem u l t i p l i e r ” t h a t s e r v e s humanity

He said India aims to write its own code for the d i g i t a l c e n t u r y , d e p l o y A I models in native languages, and foster startups that create millions of jobs Modi highlighted efforts to nurture talent, build infrastructure, and develop policies to move from participating in AI to shaping it

T h e I n d i a A I I m p a c t

Summit 2026, held at Bharat M an d ap am in Ne w De lh i and inaugurated by Prime M i n i s t e r N a r e n d r a M o d i , features over 600 start-ups and 13 international country pavilions showcasing global AI collaboration

The first m ajor summit in th e Global South, it is the fourth in the series, after the U K ( 2 0 23 , w h ere I nd ia s ig ne d th e B letc hl ey P ark Declaration), S outh Korea, an d F ra nc e, w h e re I nd ia s erv ed as co - c h ai r la st

February

On the opening day of t h e s u m m i t , o v e r 7 0 , 0 0 0 attendees caused crowding, slow movement, poor phone signals, and security delays Electronics and IT Minister A s h w i n i V a i s h n a w l a t e r a p o l o g i s e d f o r t h e i s s u e s , c a l l i n g t h e t u r n o u t “ p h enomenal” and assuring that the government will address feedback to improve the visitor experience

Spanning 10 arenas and 7, 00 0+ square meters, the

e v e n t h o s t s 3 0 0 p a v il io n s and live demos across the t h e m e s “ P e o p le, P l an et, Pro gress ” , bringing together startups, firms, state governments, and research institutions while fostering international business opportunities in the AI ecosystem

More than 700 sessio ns are planned across the summit's duration

T h e I n d i a A I I m p a c t

Summit 2026 structures its d i s c u s s i o n s a r o u n d t h r e e

main Sutras, through seven key “Chakras,” representing areas of international cooperation to ensure AI delivers p r a c t i c a l s o c i e t a l b e n e f i t s

The Human Capital Chakra focuses on skills, AI literacy, and equitable access as AI reshapes jobs T he Science Chakra promotes global collaboration and standards to a p p l y A I d i s c o v e r i e s i n health, climate, and materia l s f o r r e a l - w o r l d i m p a c t

The Resilience, Innov ation and Ef f ic i en cy C h ak ra e m p h a s i s e s s u s t a i n a b l e ,

UK puts AI at heart of India partnership

Brit ain is put ting ar tificia l inte lligen ce a t the cen tre of it s global diplomacy As Asian Voice went t o pr int, Deputy Pr ime Min ist er Da vid La mmy a nd AI M ini ste r Kan ishk a Na ray an a rriv ed in India t o lea d a high-profile U K de le gation a t the India AI Impact Summit 2026 , sign alling Lon don’s ambition t o shape how A I is deve lope d, gover ne d, a nd de ploy ed worldwide, while d eepen ing tie s with on e of the fa st est-gr owing digit al e con omies T h e m i n i s t e r s w i l l e

s i s e A I ’ s potential as a driver of economic renewal, social inclusion, and public service reform, and to argue that international collaboration is essential to harnessing it responsibly The New Delhi summit builds on earlier global gatherings in Bletchley, Seoul, and Paris, where the UK played a central role in guiding debates on AI safety, ethics, and innovation This year, the focus is on tangible impact: improving citizens’ lives, creating jobs, and supporting sustainable growth

Lammy will meet Indian policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders to showcase how UK and Indian innovations are transforming healthcare, education, local government, and business He will partici-

empowerment and join a high-level panel exploring how AI and global languages can u

announcement will be the UK’s support for

responsible AI innovation and governance across South and Southeast Asia

"AI is the engine of renewal," Lammy said ahead of the summit, pointing to its potential to help doctors diagnose diseases faster, teachers personalise learning and councils deliver services more efficiently He stressed that international collabora-

tion, particularly with India, was essential to ensuring AI s benefits are widely shared and underpinned by robust safety standards

"This summit is an important moment in determining how we can work together with our international partners to unlock the full benefits and potential of AI, while baking in robust and fair safety standards that protect us all," said Lammy, in a presummit statement

Narayan, the first Indian-origin MP from Wales, warned against concentrating AI’s advantages in the hands of a few "AI is the defining technology of our generation, and we're determined to make sure it delivers for everyone," he said

"We're pushing a global vision for AI that helps people everywhere to learn more, earn more and shape the future on their terms," he added Bengaluru visit and d eepening tech ties

India’s technology hub, to witness UKIndia collaboration in action They will meet Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, and UK unicorn Graphcore to finalise a pilot scheme allowing up to 500 engineers to rotate between Bengaluru and Bristol on six-month sprints under a blended payroll model tested by HM Treasury’s mobility sandbox

India and Britain are increasingly intertwined in tech: Infosys, TCS, and Wipro are expanding UK operations following €1 3 billion in Indian investment commitments made during Keir Starmer’s Mumbai visit last year UK firms, in turn, generate over €47 5 billion from India These collaborations feed into Vision 2035, a joint roadmap with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to drive growth, innovation, and next-generation technologies

computing power and data, accessible to all nations Th

recognition

India initiative, addressing

enabling inclusive, localised deployment of voice-based AI systems

Pankaj Aggarwal of the Ministry of Road Transport

through predictive monitoring, driver tracking, traffic optimisation, and accident prevention On Day 2 of the India AI Summit 2026, Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel highlighted that India’s AI vision goes beyond techn o l o g y , c a l l i n g i t “ A l lInclusive Intelligence,” echoi n g P M M o d i ’

vision She detailed AI’s role across healthcare, from disease surveillance to diagnosis and treatment, including

M

a Disease Surveillance System in 13 languages, AI genomic tools under the One Health Mission, and handheld AIpowered X-ray machines for

l s increased case detection by

treatment outcomes by 27%, stressing that AI augments, not replaces, doctors The final two days of the summit (February 19-20) will host over 20 heads of state,

Brazil’s

Inácio Lula da Silva, and

scussing the future of AI with global business leaders and investors

Dear Financial Voice Reader, Alpesh Patel OBE

In 20 26, your bigg est liability isn’ t a lack of information; it’ s the sheer v olume of noise d esig ned to keep you poor You have been system atically prog ramm ed into gambling by a m ulti-billion dollar indu stry of brokers and magazine vendors who thrive on your activity, not your retu rns They want you chasing the next "h ot tip" because th ey liv e off commissions and new sletters, while you live off long-term comp ounding

M o s t r e t a i l i n v e s t o r s a r e e s s e n t i a l l y p u n t i n g a t

Ladbrokes while calling it "investing " The financial media fills your head with narratives to trigger your ego, making you believe you need to "outsmart" the market True wealth requires deprogramming You don't need more news; you need a scientific process that filters out the screaming headlines and ignores the "muppets" in the City who want to sell you their latest "clever" fund

The "Boredom Trap" and the 14% Panic

The greatest threat to your portfolio over the next cycle isn't a market crash it’s your own psychological reaction to a flat market We are currently looking at a potential 14% drop in the S&P 500 To the amateur, this is a reason to panic To the seasoned professional, it’s just Tuesday This is the Year of Avoiding Cockups

Look at Microsoft in 2021 The stock ended the year up 50% However, for nine out of those twelve months, the price was either flat or falling Most investors missed that 50% gain because they got bored and "chased a trend" elsewhere or panicked during the dips Keeping calm isn't passive; it’s an active, scientific strategy to ensure you don't get wrong-footed by temporary volatility

"The end goal is peace of mind when you're holding investments It's not to compare yourself to your neighbors it's really about whether we are hitting the targets for the kind of money we want to make This is a scientific approach to avoid panic and boredom "

Stop Picking Winners, Start Building a Factory Individual stock picking is a fool’s errand You need to stop "picking" and start "constructing " I call this the Money-Making Factory Traditional fund managers like those at Fundsmith or St James’s Place are often "rubbish" because they charge you high fees to deliver boring 5% returns while hiding in "closet indexing "

Your factory requires a strict 20-40 stock rule (2 5% to 5% per holding) Even Warren Buffett saw his holdings drop 50% three times; if it happens to him, it will happen to you A 5% cap ensures that when a stock takes a 50% hit, your "peace of mind" remains intact

The machinery of your factory must be powered by CROCI (Cash Return on Capital Invested) This is the u l t i m a t e m e a s u r e b e c a u s e , u n l i k e m a n i p u l a t e d P & L statements, it looks at cold, hard cash It allows us to compare 10,000 companies across the UK, US, India, and beyond on a level playing field, filtering them down to the 40 that actually know how to generate value

The AI Bubble Debate: Why Profits Change Everything

The "experts" love comparing AI to the com bubble They’re wrong The com era was built on "eyeballs" and momentum with zero profits Today’s AI leaders are printing massive amounts of cash

Take Nvidia You are currently paying roughly $30 for every $1 of future profit Think of it like a neighbourhood rental analogy: If a property produces $1 in rent and the whole neighbourhood is selling houses for $50, then paying $30 is a bargain Valuations are only "high" if you ignore the context of the neighborhood Market crashes are caused by three specific failures:

1 P&L (Profit & Loss): No more profits (The com crash)

2 Balance Sheet: Assets aren't worth what we thought (2008)

3 Cash Flow: The money stops moving (COVID-19)

Currently, we are in a Goldilocks pace Ironically, the constant skepticism and "bubble" debates are healthy they act as a governor that prevents the market from overheating and popping prematurely

Conclusion: Doing Absolutely Nothing

The 2024-2026 cycle is not a time for "trading" or "punting " It is a cycle for discipline Your goal is to double your money every 2 5 to 5 years through the power of compounding This isn't achieved by being "clever" with daily headlines; it’s achieved by filtering 10,000 companies down to 40, rebalancing annually, and having the stomach to do absolutely nothing when the market gets noisy

The most successful investors are the ones who can watch the screaming headlines pass by their heads without flinching Ask yourself: Are you building a scientific machine a Money-Making Factory or are you just gambling at Ladbrokes with your pension? Your net worth in 2026 depends entirely on your answer

In

agree

India and UK end double social security payments for overseas staff

(DCC) during t he signing of the India-UK trade dea

“By removing the need

employees

AI to drive Barclays’ next phase of turnaround

CS Venkatakrishnan, CEO of B arclays, has set out how

play

central role in the

of

transformation, as

plans to

returns

£2 billion

Venkat, who has led the FTSE 100 lender since 2021,

to improve efficiency and support staff, forming a key pillar of the bank’s ongoing

CS Venkatakrishnan

value

pre-tax profits of £9 1 billion i n 2 0 2 5 , a 1 3 p e r c e n t i n c r

year, while its share price has more than tripled since his original turnaround plan was unveiled

The chief executive has now outlined fresh ambitions, inc

uding re

enters the second phase of a multi-year revamp aimed at

Fe

Under Venkat’s leadership, the bank’s recovery has a l r e a d y d e l i v e

ng more than £15 billion in surplus capital to shareholders b e t w e e n 2 0 2 6 a n d 2 0 2 8 , alongside delivering a further £2 billion in efficiency s a v i n g s T h e b a n k h a s already achieved £1 7 billion of its initial savings target

While Barclays’ finance chief Anna Cross described

AI as a “ core plank” of future efficiency, Venkat stressed the technology would help free employees to focus on h i g h e r - v a l u e w o r k r a t h e r than simply replacing jobs Barclays, which employs around 93,000 people globally across retail banking, i n v e s t m e n t b a n k i n g a n d credit cards, is among the major financial institutions r e s h a p i n g o p e r a t i o n s through AI

However, analysts noted investors had expected even higher capital return plans, contributing to a slight fall in the bank’s share price following the announcement

Female wellness brand seeks buyer

tanley

sells natural supplements for pregnancy, menopause and libido, as well as condoms and emergency contraception, had built a presence in m

Boots, Tesco, WH Smith and Trinny London

Restructuring specialists O p u s

n g & Insolvency were appointed administrators last week following a winding-up peti-

tion from a creditor

2017 by former banker Farah

a r a h Welsh, who set out to challenge stigma around sexual

Boom in young million-pound earners

A r e c o r d 1, 00 0 ta x p a ye r s under th e age of 30 earned more than £1 million in the past year, marking an 11 per cent increase comp ared with the p revious year, acco rding to figures fro m HM Revenue and C us toms

Collectively, these young high earners brought in more

Accountancy firm Lubbock

data, said the rise is likely being fuelled in part by the growth of influencer market-

health and improve product q u a l i t y W e l s h ’ s c l i n i c a l experience in sexual health highlighted shortcomings in traditional options, inspiring the pair to create their own

media personalities, and professionals in technology and financial services have also contributed Under-30s now make up around 3 per cent of the UK’s million-pound earners Overall, there are about

more than £1 million annually, a rise of just 1 per cent,

very high earners is growing

people than older age groups

Since the pandemic, the number of under-30 millionpound earners has surged by 54 per cent, while UK spending on influencer marketing has tripled to £917 million and is expected to surpass £1 billion

and

reliance on US-owned financial inf rast ruc ture

Vim

of

major

and

brand

The company expanded d

9 p

ndemic, partnering with pharmacies to offer online access to the morning-after pill In 2024, Hanx was selected for Morgan Stanley’s Inclusive

business mentoring

However, the founders

ongoing challenges promot-

, claiming social media plat-

d adverts over sexual content policies, limiting its growth and revenue

to

The initiative, backed by the government but funded by the

is designed to ensure the economy could continue functioning if existing card networks were disrupted Currently, around 95 per cent of UK card transactions rely on systems run by Visa and Mastercard, according to the Payment Systems Regulator With cash use continuing to decline, any outage could have widespread consequences Major financial institutions including Santander UK, NatWest and Lloyds Banking Group are involved in the discussions

Commissioner to the Republic of India, Lindy Cameron CB OBE and Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri

Co-founders Farah Kabir (left) and Sarah Welsh

Vim Maru

Uday Kotak takes charge as GIFT City Chairman

and Director of the bank, has b

2023 The appointment takes

building the Kotak Mahindra Group over the past 38 years

September 1, 2023, and has been a Non-Executive Non-

Independent Director since September 2, 2023 Under his

grown into one of India’s leading diversified financial services conglomerates

country’s only International

(IFSC), serving

services and

competitive

framework

ONGC awaits Venezuela sanctions relief

S tate-ru n Oil and Natu ral G as Co rp o rat io n ( O NG C) h as indicated early p ro gress

o n i ts l o n g- de la y ed i nvestments i n Venezuela as i t outlines a new domestic growth strategy fo cused on g as p r o j ec ts an d downstream expansion A

k Tongaonkar said easing of US sanctions on Venezuela could finally free up funds that have been frozen for years, allowing the company to resume operations once trade restrictions are fully lifted Approximately $550 million in dividends from i t s V e n e

assets remain constrained by sanctions, with $580–600 million in dividends stuck, though recovery efforts are

refinery and petrochemical

BPCL and the Uttar Pradesh government The company is also gearing up for gas-led

, supported by new offshore

targeting total production of 42 5 million tonnes of oil equivalent

Gujarat, Zimbabwe explore SME collaboration

Zim babwe’s Ambassado r to India, Nep al, S ri L anka and M aldiv es, HE Stella Nkomo, along w ith Depu ty M inister o f Industry and Com merce

R aj es h k u m ar M o d i and a d elegation, paid a cou rtesy

c al l o n Gu j ar at C h ie f M inister Bhupendra P atel in Gand hinagar

The delegation was in Gujarat to attend the 12th

T r a d e S h o w o f t h e S a u r

s h t r a V e p a r U d y o g Mandal in Ahmedabad from February 11 to 15

D u r i n g t h e m e e t i n g , b o t h s i d e s d i s c u s s e d leveraging Gujarat’s strong SME and MSME expertise to

T

Zimbabwean leaders noted

m a n u f a c t u r i n g a n d automobile hub, emerging i n

leader in MSMEs, strengths Z

Bhupendra Patel expressed readiness to collaborate

Gujarat’s MSME expertise, especially in strengthening

development

Vibrant Summit 2027,

Ada ni Power has set up a ne w sub sidiary focused on gen erat ing , transmitting and distributing ele ctr icity from nuclear e nergy

I n a s t o c k e x c h a n g e filing, the company said its wholly owned arm, AAEL, w a s i n

February 11, 2026, with an

of

each

equity

Certificate of Incorporation

Registration Centre of the Registrar of Companies on

Parliament’s passage of the

Security risks stall India’s Mali lithium deal

I nd i a i s se t to w i th d r aw fro m a lithium exploration project in Mali backed by Russia’s state nuclear firm R

A frican nation, sources said C

, i n c l u d i n g B r i t a i n , F r a n c e a n d t h e United States, have advised their citizens to leave Mali amid rising threats from al Q a e d a - l i n k e d m i l i t

and foreign investments

backed Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL) and NLC India

L

, a n emerging producer of the battery metal However, the project has now been put on hold over concerns that the investment could be at risk Russia has expanded its

GIFT City to launch

GIFT C ity is set to see its first IPO as X ED Executive Develop ment files its Red Herring Prospectus with the Registrar o f Com panies

Th e co mpany p lans to raise $1 2 million via a do llar-deno minated listing o n GIFT C ity’s i nt ern ati o n al e xc h an g es , w i th

expected in early M arch Founded in 2018, XED provides global executive education to senior professionals in over 25 countries and has trained 15,000 executives, including those from Fortune 500 firms Partnering with 17 international institutions, it offers programs in leadership, s

Indi a and the Uni ted S tates are working to convert their re ce nt tr ad e und ers t and i n g into a formal legal agreement, with chi ef negotiator Darp an Jai n sch ed uled to visi t the US ne xt we ek t o ad v an ce th e tal ks

The Commerce Ministry said the framework of the deal has already been made public, and the focus now is on drafting a legally binding text Officials said both sides are aiming to finalise the agreement by March 2026, though no firm deadline has been set

strengthening ties with Mali

wheelers by 2030, is seeking secure lithium supplies It has pursued critical mineral deals in Argentina, Australia and Chile, signing a lithium pact in Argentina in 2024, t

agreements have followed

first IPO by XED

emerging technologies Shares will be listed on NSE International Exchange and India International Exchange, allowing overseas participation under IFSC regulations

Eligible investors for XED’s IPO include n

investors, institutional investors, and other p e r m

anchor investor portion expected to close by month-end

The IPO is a test case for GIFT City’s offshore listing framework, marking a new phase for its capital markets beyond debt and derivatives listings

Cotton trade is also high on the agenda, including the

imported and the terms of

Tariff cuts will be central to next week’s talks, with I n d i a p u s h i n g t o r e d u c e certain US duties from 25% to 18% to improve access for its exports

organisations Success in India’s retail market will require focus on key segments, clear tradeoffs, and a distinct value p

$250 million worth of US cotton The visit is viewed as a key step toward finalising the legal framework of the

work through sensitive

and agriculture issues before concluding the deal

India, US aim to conclude trade by 2026 Retail market to double by 2035

Singhi, BCG With internet adoption tripling since 2016, AI-led

Uday Kotak

PM Narendra Modi with US President Donald Trump

Late Ketan Patel restores sight to four people

In a profoun d act of charity

followin

restore s ight to four vi sually impaired in divi duals

T

facilitated by the Lions Club of

volunteers, including Dr Haria

from the

Loresho Eye Hospital in Nairobi travelled t

impact of the gift As a result, K e t a n P a t e l ’ s l e g a c

recipients across

n i t y , supported by volunteers like Mishaal and Arun, maintains a

during times of grief

coordination in transforming

Maha Shivratri celebrated with devotion in Nakuru

Devotee s ga thered a t the Shri Krishna Temple in Nakuru to ce le b rat e Ma ha Shiv ra tr i wit h pr ofoun d spiritual fer vour This sacred fe stiva l, occurr in g on t he Ch a tu r da s hi T it hi of K ri sh na

Pa ksha in the hol y month of Ph a l g un , co mm e mo r a t e s t he cosmic union of Lord Shiva an d Godde ss Parvat i The temple was filled with the rhythmic chanting of Vedic

mantras and devotional bhajans

t h r o u g h o u t t h e n i g h t Worshippers participated in the t r a d i t i o n a l a b h i s h e k r i t u a l , where the Shivalinga was bathed in milk, honey, and water to s

blessings The ceremony was led by Pankaj Maharaj and Mahesh Maharaj, who guided the cong r e g a t i o n t h r o u g h t h e f o u r Prahars of worship, ending in

the early hours of February 16

C h a i r m a n S h a i l e s h S h e t h formally welcomed the massive crowds, highlighting the night's significance for inner awakening and the triumph of wisdom over

in brief

TESLA VP RAJ JEGANNATHAN STEPS DOWN

Tesla Vice President Raj Jegannathan has stepped down after nearly 13 years at the electric vehicle maker closing a long tenure at the company led by Elon Musk Though not a publicfacing figure, he played a key behind-the-scenes role across technical, infrastructure and sales leadership functions Jegannathan announced his departure on LinkedIn, describing his journey as one of “continuous evolution and highlighting his work in AI infrastructure, IT, security and customer-facing systems He did not specify a reason for leaving Raj Jegannathan’s exit comes as Tesla navigates sales pressure leadership changes and intensifying EV competition A Computer Science graduate and former founder of Visali Technologies, he joined Tesla in 2012 and rose to Vice President, overseeing IT systems and helping build a major AI computing cluster He later led North America sales operations introducing AI-driven tools

KIM JONG UN POSITIONS DAUGHTER AS SUCCESSOR

u h e r

served as a powerful reminder of N

itage, uniting the community in a collective prayer for peace and prosperity

BAPS Hindu Mandir celebrates second anniversary in Abu Dhabi

T h e BA P S Hin du M and ir in A bu D habi m arked its second anniversary on February 1 4, celebrating two years of sp iritual service and cultural harmo ny

Over 8,000 devotees and diplomats gathered for a special "Mandir Talks at 2" assembly, held at the temple site inaugurated by Mahant Swami Maharaj in 2024 Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE

M

n

attended as the guest of honour, hailing the temple as a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship between India and the United Arab Emirates

Swami Brahmviharidas noted that the landmark has welcomed four million visitors from over one hundred countries since its opening The evening featured interactive

strengthening family values and community bonds Ambassadors from India, Chile, and Egypt reflected on how the hand-carved stone structure serves as a bridge for universal fraternity The celebration concluded

First Sikh officer elevated to Lt Colonel in Pakistan

H ar ch a ran S i ng h , th

t u rba ne d S

P akistan Army, h as beco me the country’s first S ikh officer to be p rom oted to the rank of L ieutenant Colonel

Born in 1987 in Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru

N

cleared after a rigorous select i o n

Singh’s promotion marks historic first, noting that while Christians have served in the P a k i s t a n A r m y , n o H i n d u o r Sikh had previously reached this rank Singh joined the army in 2007 at age 20, served in the Ordnance Corps, and later volunteered for a combat role with the 12th Battalion of the Baloch

R e g i m e n t , o p e r a t i n g i n c h a llenging areas as a Major

Arora hailed his rise as proof that minorities can advance on merit, calling him a symbol of religious equality and national unity, and said the Sikh community would accord him a warm welcome on his return home Mastan Singh, former presid e n t o f t h e P a k i s t a n S i k h G u r d w a r a P a r b a n d h a k Committee, described him as the pride of Nankana Sahib and the wider Sikh community Lt Col Singh is currently posted in A b b o t t a b a d , K h y b e r Pakhtunkhwa

HE Dr

with children leading pledges for environmental responsibility and national harmony, ensuring the temple's mission inspires future generations

Civil rights icon Jesse Jackson dies aged 84

Th e Reverend Jesse Jackso n, a to we ri n g fi g u re i n th e Ameri can civil rights mo vement and a two-time preside nt i al c a nd i da te

ed away peacefully aged 8 4 His family confirmed he d

d ones in Chicago While a specific cause of death was

Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a

diagnosed in late 2025, following a 2017 Parkinson’s diagnosis

B o r n i n

g r e g a t e d S

u t h Carolina, Jackson rose to prominence as a protégé of Dr Martin Luther King Jr and founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition His historic 1984 and 1988 presidential bids broke racial barriers, mobilising millions of voters Beyond US politics, Jackson was a global bridge-builder; he was one of the chief guests of the Asian Achievers Awards (AAA)

in 2013, hosted by Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar where in his speech he mentioned how grateful he feels and reflected h i s d e e p s o l i d a r i t y w i t h t h e British Asian community He has also been part of the Asian Voice Political and Public Life A w a r d s ( A V P P L ) H i s l

g a c y remains a cornerstone of the fight for human rights worldwide

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has positioned his daughter, Ju Ae, as his likely successor ahead of a key party conference, South Korea’s intelligence agency said citing her increasingly prominent public appearances The Kim family has ruled for decades under the powerful “Paektu bloodline” cult and Ju Ae’s rising public profile has intensified speculation that she is the heir apparent South Korea’s intelligence agency said her appearances at key events including a Beijing visit and a ceremony at the Kumsusan Palace, reinforced that view ahead of a major party congress in late February, where North Korea s policy direction for the next five years is expected to be outlined

JUDGES RULE ICE DETENTIONS UNLAWFUL

A Reuters review found that since October, judges across the US have issued over 4,400 rulings stating that the Trump administration unlawfully detained immigrants, marking a major legal setback to its immigration crackdown Despite this, the administration has continued holding some detainees even after court orders Many court rulings have challenged the administration’s move away from a long-standing policy that allowed immigrants to seek bond while their cases were pending A West Virginia judge faulted the government for ignoring clear law as ICE detentions surged to 68,000, while the White House defended its stance In contrast, a New Orleans appeals court upheld the administration’s broader detention powers amid over 20 000 lawsuits filed by detainees seeking release

NISHA AGARWAL NAMED NYC DISABILITY COMMISSIONER

Mayor Zohran Mamdani appointed Nisha Agarwal as Commissioner for the Mayor’s Office for ‘People With Disabilities , where she will oversee accessibility and inclusion across city programs and services

Mayor Zohran Mamdani highlighted Nisha Agarwal s extensive experience in government law, and advocacy, saying New York City must be accessible to everyone and noting her role in removing barriers across housing health care education and other essential services Agarwal a public interest attorney and seasoned public servant has held senior roles at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene the International Refugee Assistance Project, and led the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs under the de Blasio administration She said, “I will ensure accessibility is central to how the city serves residents, from housing and food to health care, transportation, education, and employment ”

Nisha Agarwal

Lions club members Nakuru with specialists from Lions Loresho Eye Hospital

BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi

Deepak Mittal Indian ambassador to UAE with Swami Brahmviharidas and Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan

Harcharan Singh

Jesse Jackson

Bangladesh’s Tarique Rahman sworn in after historic vote

Continued from page 1

Rahman is set to be the first male prime minister in 35 years in Bangladesh, a country of 170 million, while new parliament mem-

b

Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin

A

India’s Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, attend-

Parliament Election results showed the BNP alliance won 212 of 299 seats, returning t

Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance took 70 seats

The election, widely seen as the first free and fair vote in nearly 20 years, followed

d

Pakistan congratulated the BNP, with PM Narendra Modi calling the victory “decisive” and affirming support for a democratic Bangladesh

Rahman, who returned in December after 17 years in London exile, is the son of former PM Khaleda Zia and late President Ziaur Rahman

The election was Bangladesh’s first truly competitive vote in years, after widespread repression under Sheikh Hasina, including disappearances, torture, and alleged rigging

The Awami League was barred and called for a boycott

Voter turnout reached 59 4%, up from 42%, with overseas voting allowed for the first time and postal ballots at 80 1% The 2024 student-led uprising and crackdown left around 1,400 dead An interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus oversaw the elections, calling it the end of a “nightmare” and the start of a “ new dream ”

Apart from that, the new government plans to request the UK to extradite Labour MP Tulip Siddiq over alleged corruption, a senior aide to prime minister-in-waiting

T a r i q u e R a h m a n s a i d S i d d i q , t r i e d i n absentia, was sentenced to up to four years by a Bangladeshi court, though the UK does not recognise the ruling She and her aunt, ousted PM Sheikh Hasina, were convicted over a land deal in Dhaka Siddiq denied wrongdoing, calling it a “trial by media ”

Minority leaders secure seats in polls

Four candidates from minority communities, including two Hindus, won seats in Bangladesh’s recent general election, all representing the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)

Among the winners were senior Hindu l e a d e r s G o y e s h w a r C h a n d r a R o y , w h o secured a seat in Dhaka, and Nitai Roy Chowdhury, victorious in Magura, both defeating Jamaat-e-Islami candidates In

, w h i l e Dipen Dewan of the Chakma community t r i u

independent candidate

In the Muslim-majority nation of 170 m

eight per cent of the population, minority representation remains closely watched

The Election Commission said 79 minority candidates, including 10 women, contested

Bangladesh fielded the most minority candidates, while the BNP nominated six In

Hindu candidate, Krishna Nandi, though he finished second In the 2018 and 2024 elections, 17 Hindu lawmakers were elected each time, mostly from the Awami League

Modi congratulates Rahman, signals reset with Dhaka

After the oath ceremony, PM Narendra Modi congratulated Bangladesh’s newly sworn-in Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and invited him to visit India, signalling New Delhi’s intent to engage closely with Dhaka’s new leadership

In a letter, Modi praised Rahman’s electoral win as a mandate for peace, stability,

Bangladesh’s deep-rooted friendship and

, education, energy, healthcare, and people-to-people exchanges, and extended

Rahman and his family to visit India

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met Tarique Rahman in Dhaka after the swearingin, conveying India’s greet-

a n g

d e s h H i g h C

m m i s s i o n e r R i a z Hamidullah said the leaders expressed optimism about a d v a n c i n g p e o p l e - c e n t r i c c o o p e r a t i o n between the two nations

On X, Birla noted he handed over a pers o n a l l e t t e r f r o m P M M o d i , w i s h i n g Rahman well and inviting him to visit India Birla attended the ceremony as India’s representative for the BNP-led government’s return to power

The interim Bangladeshi government invited leaders from India, China, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, UAE, Qatar, Malaysia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Maldives, and Bhutan PM Modi was unable to attend due to bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron

His remarks signal an effort to reset ties

Muhammad Yunus’s interim government, caused by border security, illegal migration, and rising anti-Hindu sentiment following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in August 2024 India had maintained steady relations with Hasina’s Awami League, focusing on trade, transport, border security, and water-sharing With the BNP’s return, New Delhi recalls the 2001–2006 period marked by c r o

What next for Muhammad Yunus?

Chittagong arms haul

India eyes pragmatic ties under BNP rule

India is cautiously optimistic following the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s landslide victory, viewing the result as an opportunity to reset ties with Dhaka after a turbulent interim phase Senior officials said the outcome reinforces New Delhi’s position that only a democratically elected government with a popular mandate can ensure stability and predictability in bilateral relations From India’s perspective, relations deteriorated during the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus, a period official

delays in restoring democratic processes and public accusations against India New Delhi rejects that narrative, maintaining it engages with the government chosen by the people A senior official said the verdict reaffirms democratic values and the spirit of 1971, which underpin India-Bangladesh relations A

Bangladesh’s interim phase was the reported targeting of Hindu minorities and the perceived space given to Islamist and proPakistan groups, developments New Delhi saw as damaging to bilateral trust and regional stability With the BNP’s return to

opportunity to repair strained ties and is cautiously optimistic about acting chairman Tarique Rahman’s approach, hoping for a more pragmatic engagement driven by

Minister Narendra Modi’s swift congratulatory message and likely high-level representation at Rahman’s swearing-in signal New Delhi’s readiness to reset relations

Senior BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said Bangladesh’s ties with India would not be “captive” to any single issue, including the presence of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina in India While reiterating Dhaka’s demand for her extradition over alleged human rights violations, he stressed that broader cooperation in trade, development and regional stability would continue He highlighted upcoming discussions on water-sharing, border issues and economic collaboration, arguing that dialogue, not confrontation, should define the relationship

Bangladesh’s decisive election victory for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) positions Tarique Rahman as the next prime minister Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who led the interim government after the 2024 uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina, has maintained he was only a caretaker With constitutional formalities underway, Yunus is expected to step aside, though analysts believe he may continue to play an advisory role, particularly on economic matters, under a BNP-led government Yunus, brought back from abroad to stabilise the country and organise credible elections, is expected to step aside once constitutional formalities are complete Many analysts believe he may continue as an advisor, formally or informally, particularly in economic matters, under a BNP-led administration While his interim tenure ends, Yunus’s public role in Bangladesh is unlikely to disappear entirely His role extended beyond overseeing elections He inherited what he described as a “completely broken” political system and pushed for a reform charter to prevent a return to one-party dominance His proposals included two-term limits for prime ministers, stronger judicial independence, greater representation for women, neutral interim governments during elections, and the creation of a second parliamentary chamber A referendum held alongside the general election sought public backing for these changes

Whether the incoming BNP government adopts or sidelines these reforms will shape Yunus’s legacy Analysts suggest the BNP may include Yunus within a broader anti-Hasina political framework If the reforms gain bipartisan support, Yunus’s influence could endure indirectly; if diluted, his legacy may remain more moral than structural

Hindu man found dead ahead of Bangladesh polls

A 2 8-year-o ld Hind u man w as fo und d ead with injury

m ark s i n B an g la d es h ’ s M oulv ibazar district a d ay befo re key voting , heightening concerns among m inorities over possible electionrelated vio lence

Police said Ratan Shuvo Kar, a worker at Champara

T e a G a r d e n

union, was discovered with his hands and feet tied

Locals found the body around 10 am and alerted a

injuries and was covered in blood A co-worker alleged

y dumped at the site While s o m e

d

n

s s u s p e c t a link to the election, no evid e n c e h a s y e t c o n f i r m e d this

L a

family had been searching

body after it was found in the tea garden Police have sent it for autopsy and are

killing was election-related

The cause of death has not yet been confirmed

recent attacks on Hindus in

Sushen Chandra Sarkar and t h

Chandra Das As national e

Trucker pleads guilty in crash killing Olympian

Sukhwinder Sidhu, a 31-y earold truck driver fr om Angus, Ontario, has pleaded guilty to dangerous driving charges f oll owing a cata strophic 2023 r

Alexandra Paul

court on February10, just as a three-week trial was scheduled to begin The fatal incident occurred on August 22, 2023,

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla with Prime Minister of Bangladesh Tarique Rahman

Om Birla welcomed by dignitaries in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Tarique Rahman takes oath as Prime Minister of Bangladesh from President Mohammed Shahabuddin (left)

Sukhwinder Sidhu

2

T

Seattle’s $29mn settlement in Indian student’s death

nt who wa s

tally struck by a spe eding police officer while cr ossing a st ree t in 2023

I

Attorney Erika Evans called h

and expressed hope that the settlement would offer the family some closure, adding t

40 kmph zone while

r

death triggered widespread

making insensitive remarks

Auderer was dismissed and

termination, while Dave was fired and fined $5,000 but faced no criminal charges

About $20 million of the $29 million settlement will be

insurance

Nikhil Gupta pleads guilty in US plot

UC Berkeley Indian student found dead

in brief

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION SUES HARVARD

separatist

pleaded guilty to murder-

and conspiracy to commit money laundering

extradition from the Czech

t s describe as strong evidence, including alleged wiretaps o f h i m n e g o t i a t i n g a $100,000 payment with an undercover agent His plea avoids a trial that carries a possible 40year sentence; prosecutors have recommended 21 to 24

years, with sentencing to be

Judge Victor Marrero The

Vikash Yadav, who remains in India, which has called the case a “ rogue ” operation

involvement

G u r p a t

S i n g h Pannun, general counsel of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has

and released videos urging boycotts of Air India His

n Agency to file fresh terrorrelated charges against him

Two Indians charged in US morphine bust

T w o In d i an n at io n al s i n

N ew J e rs ey h av e be en

c h a rg ed af te r au th o ri t ie s seized nearly 19 kilog rams of d ried p oppy pod s containing m orp hine that were shipp ed from the Netherlands to a h ome in Bergen C ounty

K a r a n j i t S i n g h , 2 4 , a n d Jagroop Singh, 25, face charges of possession with intent to

d i s t r i b u t e a c o n t r o l l e d

d a n g e r o u s s u b s t a n c e , according to Bergen County

Prosecutor Mark Musella ICE

has placed detainers on both men, meaning they could face deportation

T h e p a c

Protection before it reached a

New Jersey T

approved search on January

30, detectives found the two men along with the drugs and related materials

Both were charged with

distribute; Karanjit Singh was released pending trial, while

Canada, truck driver Satnam S

pounds of methamphetamine hidden in his vehicle

Bondi Beach attack accused appears in court

Naveed Akr am, the 24-yearo l d a c c u s e d in t he B o nd i B e a

k il led 15 people on Dec emb er 14, appeared in c ourt f or the f irst time

He and his father, Sajid Akram, who was shot dead by police, were allegedly behind one of Australia’s deadliest attacks Naveed survived the shootout with bullet injuries and had been in critical care

At a brief Sydney court h

extended suppression orders

committing a terrorist act, and is being held at Goulburn supermax prison H

early to indicate a plea and that the case could run until 2027 He noted prosecutors have yet to provide the brief

of evidence and that Akram

licence and had undertaken

attempted to use explosive

briefly during the hearing, and the next court date is expected in April

Saketh S reenivasaiah, a 22-year-o ld student at th e Univ ersity o f C alifornia, Berkeley w ho had been missing since February 9, has been found d ead, th e Indian Consulate in San Francisco said In a post on X, the Consulate expressed d e e p c o n d o l e n c e s t o h i s f a m i l y a n d confirmed that local police had recovered his body It added that officials are in touch

formalities and arrangements to repatriate his remains to India

Sreenivasaiah was last seen near Lake Anza in the Berkeley hills, while his backpack containing his passport and laptop was later f o u n d a t a n e a r b y h

reported

Originally from Karnataka, he earned a BTech in Chemical Engineering from IIT Madras in 2025 and was pursuing a master’s at UC Berkeley After he went missing, his roommate sought help on social media as p o l i c e b e g a n a s e a r

Secretary Shalini Rajneesh requested MEA a s s i s t a n c

coordinated with local authorities

Fake Indian police setups found in Cambodia

Fake signboards featu ring the log os of the M umbai Police and the CBI, along with images o f Mahatm a Gandhi, B R Am bedkar an d th e I nd i an f la g , w ere f o u nd at an aband oned scam com pound in Cambodia us ed fo r “d ig ital arrest” frau ds targ eti ng Indians

A u t h o r i t i e s s u s p e c t a C h i n a - b o r n businessman of masterminding the fraud network Nearly 200 scam centres have been shut, with over 170 senior figures arrested and around 11,000 workers deported

F o o t a g e s h o w e d r o w s o f c o m p u t e r s , scam scripts and even a fake Indian police station After alleged kingpin Ly Kuong’s arrest, 6,000-7,000 workers reportedly fled, a s p o l i c e a d m i t t e d t h e y l a c k e d t h e m a n p o w e r t o s t o p t h e m A m n e s t y I n t e r n a t i o n a l h a s c a l l e d t h e s i t u a t i o n a humanitarian crisis

S i m i l a r f a k e s e t u p s w e r e f o u n d a t another site near the Thai border While Cambodia had earlier downplayed the issue, o f f i c i a l s s a y t h e c u r r e n t c r a c k d o w n i s broader, targeting the closure of centres and the arrest of senior figures

Maryland welcomes monks at end of cross-country peace walk

M aryland L ieutenant Governor A runa M iller w elcomed nearly two dozen Budd hist m onks to the S tate House in A nnapolis as they com pleted th eir 2,30 0-mile “Walk for Peace,” w h ic h beg an i n F or t Wo rth, T exas , last Octo ber

The US Justice Department has sued Harvard University alleging it failed to provide documents related to a federal investigation into racial discrimination in admissions Filed in Boston federal court, the lawsuit alleges Harvard has failed for 10 months to provide information sought in a compliance review launched in April 2025 Attorney General Pam Bondi said the case aims to ensure admissions follow federal civil rights laws and merit-based standards, while Harvard maintains it has complied with the 2023 Supreme Court ruling and acted in good faith The dispute is the latest clash between the Trump administration and elite universities, amid funding cuts over diversity and antisemitism concerns After reportedly dropping a $200 million demand, Trump said he was seeking $1 billion in unspecified damages

SINGAPORE TOPS RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY LIST

Singapore has been ranked the world’s most religiously diverse country in a study of 201 nations, reflecting the even spread of its population across seven major faith groups Christians remain the world’s largest religious group at 2 3 billion though their share has slightly declined while Muslims are the fastest-growing major faith rising by 347 million over the past decade Hindus have risen by 126 million to 1 2 billion remaining 14 9% of the global population The religiously unaffiliated account for 24 2% worldwide while Buddhists are the only major faith to decline Yemen Afghanistan and Somalia are the least religiously diverse, with Asia-Pacific the most varied, according to a February 2026 Pew report based on over 2,700 censuses and surveys

TRUMP CONFIRMS BEIJING VISIT IN APRIL

Reports confirmed that US President Donald Trump will visit Beijing in April to meet his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping This visit, Trump's first to China in his second term, follows a high-stakes 90-minute phone call on February 4, where the leaders discussed trade, Taiwan, and energy During the call, Trump secured a commitment for China to increase soybean purchases to 20 million tonnes Despite this economic truce tensions remain high as Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced the aggressive revocation of visas for Chinese students with CCP links

SAUDI ARABIA LIFTS 73-YEAROLD ALCOHOL BAN

Saudi Arabia marked a historic shift in its Vision 2030 initiative by easing its 73-year alcohol ban for non-Muslim elite expatriates To modernise its global image for Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup the kingdom opened a discreet outlet in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter Access is strictly limited to high earners: residents must hold a Premium Residency (100 000 riyals annually) or earn a monthly salary of at least 50 000 riyals While spirits are regulated via a pointsbased quota and public consumption remains illegal, expansion to Jeddah and Dhahran is expected later this year

KENYA

TO REOPEN SOMALIA BORDER AFTER 15 YEARS

After travelling through ten states and Washington, DC, the group, accompanied by volunteers and a dog named Aloka, visited an official state residence for the first time Miller guided them through the House and S

legislative resolutions and met local officials Miller said she was honoured the monks chose Annapolis, calling the stop symbolic of their message of peace and unity Governor Wes Moore and First Lady Dawn Moore

l

February 12, 2026, as “Walk for Peace Day,” with additional citations presented to mark

the occasion

The pilgrimage, which began on October 26, 2025, was rooted in Theravada Buddhist teachings of nonviolence and mindfulness Lead monk Venerable Bhikkhu Paññākāra said the journey sought to promote peace in response to a perceived lack of mindfulness

bracelets, the monks distributed hundreds of

Annapolis

Kenya s border with Somalia will re-open in April, nearly 15 years after closing due to attacks by Islamist militant group al-Shabab, President William Ruto announced The Somalia-based militant group al-Shabab has carried out deadly attacks in Kenya, including the 2013 Westgate mall, 2015 Garissa University, 2014 Mandera bus, and 2019 Nairobi hotel attacks President William Ruto said the border reopening follows years of security assessments and will be secured by heavy forces

Jaahnavi Kandula

Saketh Sreenivasaiah

Nikhil Gupta

r

India–France boost strategic partnership

French President Emmanuel Macron visited India for three days at the invitation of PM Modi to attend the India AI Impact Summit and hold a bilateral summit in Mumbai. This marked Macron’s fourth visit to India and his first to Mumbai.

M

C

At Mumbai airport, he was welcomed by

Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, highlighting the visit’s significance

F

X

Mumbai! A very warm welcome to President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron Wishing a successful visit!”

As he flew to India, Macron tweeted: “En route to India! Three days from Mumbai to New Delhi to take our strategic partnership further On board: business leaders and cultural, economic, and digital experts who bring India–France ties to life See you tomorrow, my dear friend @NarendraModi!”

P M N a

India launches digital food currency pilot

Macron, noting that the Mumbai and Delhi engagements w o u l d g

India–France strategic partnership, benefiting both nations and the global community Modi posted on X: “Welcome to India! Looking forward to advancing our bilateral ties and strengthening cooperation across sectors See you in Mumbai a n d D e

@EmmanuelMacron ”

d

President Macron began his official India visit with a morning jog along Mumbai’s Marine Drive, closely monitored by security and locals Later, he and First Lady Brigitte Macron paid flo-

Hotel, honouring the victims of the 2008 26/11 terror attacks

Macron meets Bollywood stars

French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron met Bollywood stars including Anil Kapoor, Zoya Akhtar, Manoj Bajpayee, Shabana Azmi, Richa Chadha, Neeraj Ghaywan, and Grammy-winner Ricky Kej during their India visit

Sharing photos on X, Macron wrote, “Alongside legends of Indian cinema Culture brings us together ” Anil Kapoor also called it an “inspiring afternoon,” adding they exchanged thoughts on cinema, culture, and the India–France connection

India-France deepen innovation ties

P

arrived at Maharashtra Lok Bhavan in M

Acharya Devvrat welcomed him The leaders held delegation talks and virtually inaugurated the H125 Light Utility Helicopter Final Assembly of Tata Airbus in Vemagal, Karnataka

At the joint press conference, Modi expressed delight in welcoming Macron, recalling their visit to Marseille during the AI Action Committee Summit in France and paying tribute to India’s freedom fighters, including Veer Savarkar

He highlighted the India–France Year of I n n o v a

t h e strategic partnership into a “Partnership of the People” by strengthening people-to-people connections, linking industries, start-ups, MSMEs, students, and researchers, and establishing new joint innovation centres

launch of the Indo-French Centres for AI in Health, Digital Science & Technology, and the National Centre for Skilling in Aeronautics These initiatives, he said, are future-building platforms that combine France’s expertise with India’s scale to develop trusted technologies, ensure human development through the International Solar Alliance, advance the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor, and promote global stability through multilateralism, dialogue, and diplomacy

French President Emmanuel Macron thanked India for the warm welcome on his fourth official visit, calling the India–

unique,” built on trust, openness, and ambition He announced that the partnership has been elevated to a Special

joint initiatives over the past eight years in areas like the Indo-Pacific, technology,

International Solar Alliance

PM Narendra Modi said India and France share democratic values, the rule of law, and a commitment to a multipolar world He stressed cooperation on global challenges, peace efforts in regions like Ukraine, West Asia, and the Indo-Pacific, and the joint fight against terrorism Modi also highlighted cultural and people-topeople ties, citing collaborations on the Jewel Museum, the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, and the upcoming Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in France

Modi also praised the helicopter assembly line as a symbol of deep trust between the two countries, producing the world’s only helicopter capable of flying to Mount E v e r e s t , w h i c

announced strengthened cooperation in critical minerals, biotechnology, and advanced materials, along with the

marines, and engines for fighter jets, along with shared initiatives in space and aeronautics He emphasised technology

Innovation Year will strengthen partnerships across startups, companies, and R&D centres, including high-speed rail and other strategic sectors

Modi, Macron share ride to forum

PM Narendra Modi shared

ride

Macron to the India–France Innovation Forum in Mumbai after their bilateral talks Posting on X, Modi wrote, "After the talks and press statements at Lok Bhavan, President Macron and I are on our way to the India–France Innovation Forum "

The ride underscores the close rapport between PM Modi and global leaders, reflecting his focus on strengthening cooperation in innovation, trade,

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur, Russian President Vladimir Putin in Delhi, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Gujarat, and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Delhi, highlighting his personal engagement with world leaders

At the forum, Macron said, "The question is no longer whether India innovates, but who will innovate with India France is the clear answer We are here to stay Jai Ho! Long live the Indo-French relationship

He added that, following Modi’s proposal, an Innovation Day will be held before the G7, bringing together students and researchers under FrancoIndian initiatives At the Forum, the French President also highlighted India’s global leadership in technology, not-

T he Gov ernm ent of Ind ia has launch ed a pilo t of a C entral Bank Digital Currency (C BDC )-based dig ital food currency in Gujarat

Inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the event was attended by Union Consumer Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and MoS Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya

Joshi said the initiative, under the slogan “Har Dana, Har Rupiya, Har Adhikar”, aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in India’s Public Distribution System (PDS), which serves over 80 crore beneficiaries Digital coupons (e₹) issued through the RBI can be redeemed at Fair Price Shops, addressing issues with biometric authentication and e-POS systems The pilot covers Ahmedabad, A

Puducherry, Chandigarh, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu

Amit Shah said the CBDC pilot extends the Digital India vision to the Public Distribution System, making it more transparent, leak-proof, and corruption-free Highlighting India’s leadership in digital transactions, he said CBDC will strengthen “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance” and encouraged other states to adopt it

Beneficiaries’ digital wallets will hold programmable Digital Rupees for QR code or coupon-based purchases at Fair Price Shops, eliminating repeated biometric checks and enabling real-time tracking and instant FPS dealer payments

The CBDC-based Digital Food Currency pilot, building on initiatives like ‘One Nation One Ration Card’ and ‘Ann Chakra’, enhances transparency and accountability in the PDS It was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel, MoS Nimuben Bambhaniya, Deputy CM Harsh Sanghvi, and senior officials

Major anti-drug haul at Jammu border

Jamm u & Kashmir Police an d BSF troope rs se ize d ov er 6 k g of her oin, wor th Rs 40 cror e, n ear the in te rna tiona l borde r in Ja mmu ’ s R S Pura , suspect ed to ha ve be en dro pped by a Pak istan i d rone

Acting on information about drone activity, a joint operation recovered the drugs from Nai Basti Karotana village in Baspur The contraband, wrapped in yellow polythene, was described by security sources as a “major achievement” in antidrug efforts The seizure follows the arrest of two people in Kathua, around 85 km away, for allegedly smuggling heroin dropped from drones

“Investigation is ongoing to trace the source and destination of the seized contraband, including its linkages,” an RS Pura official said

In Kathua, two men, Danish Dogra from Kathua and Jatin from Pathankot, Punjab, were arrested for smuggling 150 gm of heroin and communicating with a Pakistan-based peddler via VoIP Last December, Kathua police had also arrested four people linked to drone-dropped narcotics, seizing over 400 gm of heroin and Rs 5 lakh in cash from Chhan Tanda village in Hiranagar

as Gujarat courts receive bomb threats

Six courts in Gujarat, includi ng A h m

Modi and Macron attends the India-France Year of Innovation & Cultural Commemoration event at the Gateway of India (Mumbai)

French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron at Mumbai airport

Modi at the joint press meet with Macron

French President Macron with Bollywood stars

UAE’s ‘Royal Photographer’ Ramesh Shukla dies at 87

Ramesh Shukla, the Ind ian expatriate w id ely know

e h i s s u d d e n cardiac arrest

T r i b u t e s p o u r e d i n across the UAE, led by His H i

bin Mohammed bin Rashid A

decades, Shukla chronicled the UAE’s journey from quiet

1965 from Mumbai with

before the UAE was formed

while photographing

camel race in Sharjah attended by

Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum later referred to

milestones

Among his most iconic

declaration on December 2, 1971, and the famed “Spirit of the Union” photograph of the founding fathers beneath the UAE flag, now featured on the Dh50 note His vast

Zayed National Museum

Kerala’s youngest organ donor saves five lives

T en-month -old Alin Sherin

A braham , who was d eclared brain-dead following a road accident earlier th is month , h a s be co m e K

youngest organ d ono r Her parents consented to donate her kidneys, liver, e

transplants

K e r a l a C h i e f M i n i s t e r

Pinarayi Vijayan announced t h a t t h e c h i l d w o u l d b e accorded full state honours Her body will be brought to

burial

Alin Sherin Abraham, the only daughter of Arun Abraham of the Church of S

I n d i a S y n

n d Sherin Ann John, suffered critical injuries in a road

brain-dead In an act of remarkable courage, her parents chose to donate her organs so that others could live

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called the decision a

green corridor; six-monthold Dhriya received her liver and is stable, while her heart valves, corneas and kidneys were donated to patients in T h i r u v a n a n t h a p u r a m a n d K o c h i G o v e r n o r R a j e n d r a Arlekar condoled her death

a n d l a u d e d t h e f a m i l y ’ s gesture

Sunetra Pawar set to lead NCP as national president

M

Sunetra

p resi dent o f the Nati onali

C ongres s Party after

p arty MLAs at a meeti ng in Devgiri

The proposal to appoint her was moved by National W

P

u l Patel and was endorsed by all l e g i s l a t o

formal decision is expected to

y ’ s executive committee meeting on February 26

Praful Patel, a Rajya Sabha MP, was also considered for the post However, following

A j i t P a w a r ’ s d e a t h , s e v e r a l party leaders publicly backed Sunetra Pawar’s leadership

T h e O p p o s i t i o n h a d

t a r g e t e d P a t e l , c i t i n g h i s proximity to Home Minister Amit Shah, arguing that his

e l

the NCP and the BJP Sharad Pawar had earlier accused Praful Patel and Sunil

f a c t i o n s S u n e t r a P a w a r , nominated to the Rajya Sabha a f t e r h e r 2 0 2 4 L o k S a b h a defeat, is expected to vacate the seat soon, with sources suggesting it may go to her son, Parth Pawar The party h a s a l s o a s k e d M L A s t o refrain from commenting on a n y m e r g e r t a l k s , d e s p i t e earlier remarks and repeated d e n i a l s f r o m P a t e l a n d Tatkare

Leaders pay tribute to Pulwama martyrs

P r i m e M in i s t e r N a r e n d r a Modi pa id tr ibute to t he 40 CR PF pe rsonn el k illed in the 2019 Pulwama te rror at tack on it s se ven th a nniv ersa ry, re member in g t hem a s “bra ve her oes ” In a post on X, he said their sacrifice r ema in s e t c h e d i n t h e n a t i o n ’ s collective consciousne ss and con t inue s t o in spir e ev e ry India n L e a d e r o f O p p o s i t i o n

R a h u l G a n d h i a n d V i c e

P r e s i d e n t C P

R a d h a k r i s h n a n a l s o h o n o u r e d t h e f a l l e n s o l d i e r s , s a l u t i n g t h e i r s u p r e m e s a c r i f i c e i n t h

was held in Pulwama, where senior officers and officials paid homage to the martyrs

tribute to the 40 personnel killed in the February 14, 2019 Pulwama terror attack, saying their valour “remains

Jammu and Kashmir reopens 14 tourist sites after security review

J a m m u a n d K a s hm i r

L i eu te n a nt G o ve r no r Ma noj Sinha has orde red the immediate reopening of 14 m aj o r t our i s t d es t i n a ti on s fo ll ow i n g a c om p re he n s i v e s e c ur i t y r ev i e w T he s i te s , wh i c h h ad be e n c l os e d a s a pr e c a uti o n a ft e r th e Pahalgam terror attack, are now open to both touris ts and locals

L i e u t e n a n t G o v e r n o r

M a n o j S i n h a a n n o u n c e d t h a t m o r e t o u r i s t s p o t s a c r o s s t h e K a s h m i r a n d J a m m u d i v i s i o n s w o u l d r e o p e n w i t h i m m e d i a t e e f f e c t , r a i s i n g t h e t o t a l n u m b e r o f r e s t o r e d

destinations to 42 of

and job cuts Earlier

response However, heavy

c e m b e r boosted footfall, with over one lakh tourists visiting in January Key sites such as Doodhpathri, Kokernag, Pir Ki Gali and Srinagar’s Tulip Garden have now reopened following a fresh security review

Thanya Nathan becomes Kerala's first blind judge Indian passport secures 75th rank globally

Inde

the In

n passpor t has surge d to the 75 th posit ion, mar king a sign ifican t r ecove ry in g lobal mobility

T h i s c l i m b o f 1 0 p l a c e s comes after the passport hit a low of 85th in 2025 and sat at 80th earlier this y e a

5 6 destinations, including T

Kazakhstan without a prior visa, utilising visaf

Singapore maintaining its reign as the world's most powerful p

c travel authorisation (eTA) The index, powered by International

historic peak of 71st in 2006,

9 2 countries, followed by Japan and South Korea at 187 The United Arab Emirates also achieved a recordbreaking 3rd place F

s largely attributed to n e w b

t e r a l agreements and the government's push f

passports Despite these gains, I n d i a n t r a v e l l e r s s t i l l f a c e significant visa hurdles in major Western economies, though the current upward trend suggests

Construction of Babri style mosque begins in Murshidabad

A sign ifican t re ligious an d polit ica l e ven t unfold ed in Beldan ga, Murshidabad, as th e brick-la ying ce re mony for a mosque mod elled on the Ba br i Masjid officially comme nced Humayun Kabir, the Bharatpur MLA and chief of the newly formed Janata Unnayan Party (JUP), led the

Trinamool Congress in December 2025 over this project, announced that the Rs 55 crore structure is being built on an 11-acre plot and is expected to be completed within two years by a Kerala-based private company The move has triggered a sharp political backlash

asserted that the Babri structure would never be rebuilt until the day of judgment Meanwhile, West Bengal BJP leaders described the construction as a plan B to consolidate minority votes ahead of the state assembly elections Despite the controversy, Kabir proceeded with a curtailed 22-km march on Thursday, 12 February, from Palashi to the site, after his original 265-km 'Babri Yatra' was scaled back due to ongoing school board examinations and police restrictions

A 24 - ye ar - o l d l a w ye r f ro m

K annu r, C T h anya N at ha n made histo ry by to pp ing the merit list for candidates with benchmark dis abilities in the K e ra l a J u dic i al Se rv ic e Examination

T h i s l a n d m a r k achievement makes her the first totally visually impaired person set to serve as a Civil

J u d g e ( J u n i o r D i v i s i o n ) i n Kerala Thanya, who has been blind since birth, secured the top rank following a rigorous

concluded in February 2026

Supreme Court ruling, which held that visually impaired

i a l service solely based on their disability

A g r a d u a t e a n d r a n k -

h o l d e r f r o m K a n n u r University, Thanya has been practising at the Taliparamba c o u r t f

Ramesh Shukla

Alin Sherin Abraham

Sunetra Pawar

PM Modi inaugurates Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhavan complexes

P r i m e M i ni s ter N are nd r a M o d i

inaugurated th e S ev a T eerth com plex, w hich will ho use th e PM O, the Cabinet

S ecretari at, and the Natio nal Security

C ou nc i l S ec ret ari at H e u nv eil ed t he

S e v a T ee rth p la qu e , i ns c ri be d in

Devanagari with the m otto “Nagrik Dev o Bhava” (citizen is akin to God)

T h e P M O w i l

h

Block on Raisina Hill to Seva Teerth,

c o n s o l

locations Housing and Urban Affairs

t

Minister Manohar Lal, MoS Jitendra Singh, a n d o t h e r P M O o f f i c i a l s a t t e n d e d t h e

inauguration

Since 2014, the Modi government has worked to move away from colonial-era symbols, renaming the PMO as Seva Teerth, Central Secretariat buildings as Kartavya Bhawan, and Rajpath as Kartavya Path Race Course Road is now Lok Kalyan Marg, and Raj Bhawans and Raj Niwas have become Lok Bhavan and Lok Niwas

The PMO said the inauguration marks a milestone in building a modern, efficient, a n d c i t i

Previously, ministries were spread across ageing, fragmented infrastructure, causing

functions in modern, future-ready facilities

At the inauguration of Seva Tirtha and Kartavya Bhavan, PM Modi emphasised that these new government complexes reflect the aspirations of 1 4 billion Indians, replacing colonial-era buildings designed for control with spaces built for service and citizen-

efficiency, modern facilities, and cost savings these buildings bring, while also noting that the old North and South Blocks will be

generations

Modi stressed that governance is rooted

Dharmah”, urging officers and employees to ensure every decision improves the lives of c

reclaiming its identity, from renaming roads and memorials to building Kartavya Path, Samvidhan Sadan, and honouring heroes like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

H

embody responsibility, commitment, and citizen-focused service, linking their work to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 Seva Tirtha and Kartavya Bhavan, he said, should serve as symbols of sensitive, accountable governance, where service, not power, drives every decision, shaping India’s future and inspiring generations to come

NGT clears Great Nicobar mega project

T h e Natio nal G reen

T ri b u nal (N GT ) h as cleared the centre ’ s Rs

9 0 , 0 0 0 -c ro r e G rea t Nicobar m eg a infrastructure project, endi ng yea rs o f d el ays

o v e r e nv ir o nm e nta l concerns

The project aims to transform Great Nicobar Island into a strategic maritime and logistics hub in the Bay of Bengal, anchored b y t h e I n t e r n a t i o n

Port (ICTP) at Galathea Bay

Spanning 166 sq km, the G r e a t N i c o b a r p r o j e c t includes a container port, dual-use civil-military airport, and integrated township, underlining its com-

mercial and strategic importance The ICTP, costing Rs 40,040 crore, will handle 4 m

phase by 2028, eventually reaching 16 million TEUs It will be operated by a joint venture majority-owned by an Indian private firm, with state-owned ports holding minority stakes, for 50 years

Strait, near Colombo,

Along with Vizhinjam in Kerala, the port forms

two-pronged transshipment strategy, enhancing India’s

Indian students going abroad decline for third year

The numbe r of Indian studen ts pursuin g higher education a broad has declined for thre e conse cutive year s, according t o dat a shar ed by the Ministry of Education in the Ra jy a Sa bha

Responding to a written query, Minister of State for E d u c a t i o n S u k a n t a Majumdar cited Bureau of Immigration figures showing that 9 08 lakh students went overseas in 2023, dropping to 7 7 lakh in 2024 and 6 26 lakh in 2025 T h e d a t a , c o

the Union Home Ministry’s Bureau of Immigration, covers the period from 2023 to 2

exposure to foreign cultures and course preferences T h

while strengthening higher education at home under the N

c y (NEP) 2020

Steps include improving infrastructure, accreditation, research and digital learning To bring global-quality education to India, foreign universities have been allowed to open campuses, with 14 institutions approved so far and five cleared to operate in GIFT City, Gujarat

economy and views the Indian diaspora as a key asset Efforts are being made

PM Modi inaugurates Seva Teerth, in New Delhi

PM Modi attends Public event at Seva Teerth

FTAs to boost MSMEs and global trade, says PM Modi

e d

India to negotiate free trade

a g r e e m e n t s w i t h 3 8 countries from a “position

o f s t r e n g t h ” H e o u t l i n e d three key priorities for the coming decades: continuing

s t

governance to make it easier for citizens and businesses t o o p e r a t e M o d i a l s o emphasised the crucial role

agreements

said trade competitiveness

India’s FTAs aim

textiles, leather, processed

chemicals, handicrafts, and gems and jewellery

He stressed that while

sector must drive the next

MSMEs should move from

globally integrated, export-

India’s role in global trade

In the 2026-27 Budget, M

approach to development, boosting capital expenditure

urged the private sector to leverage these opportunities for systemic transformation

t e r M o d i said his government’s top

next decade are structural

innovation, and simplifying governance

O n d e f e n c e , h e n o t e d that reforms over the past decade benefited Operation Sindoor and justified higher

( £ 6 3 4 3 b i l

n ) , 1 5 % m o r e than last year, was allotted, the largest for any ministry

clears £29bn deal, Rafales included

T he De f e n c e Ac q u is i t io n C ou nc il , l ed b y Un io n D e f e n c

p

c ure m e nt of

a

Ra

jets , com bat miss iles, and an Air-Ship Bas ed High Altitude

Ps eudo Sate ll ite (AS-HAPS)

a t an es tim ated cost of Rs 3 6 l akh c rore (£29 1 bill ion)

M o s t R a f a l e s a r e expected to be produced in I n d i a

long-range strike capability The advanced missiles w i l l s t r e n g t h e n p

ground-attack capabilities,

intelligence, surveillance,

, cleared by the Defence Procurement Board, will m

committee for approval, with formal negotiations

operating 30 of its sanctioned 42 squadrons, will get Rafale

j e t s t o m e e t i t s 4 5generation fighter needs as AMCA and Tejas Mk-1A face delays

T h e A r m y w i l l r e c e i v e

Vibhav anti-tank mines and overhauled ARVs, T-72s, and BMP-IIs to boost readiness

The Navy will get a 4 MW m a r i n e g e n e r a t o r a n d additional P-8I aircraft for long-range surveillance and strike, while the Coast Guard will receive EO/IR systems for Dornier planes

Ancient Tamil inscription discovered in Pharaohs’ tombs

A rou nd 2, 000 years ag o, a T am il trader visiting Egypt left his mark insid e the rockcut to mbs o f p harao hs in the V alley of th e Kings, which d ate back to 1 600 BCE His name, inscribed eight times acro ss fiv e tom bs, remained u n no ti c ed , w h en S w i s s s c h o la r In g o S tra u ch id entified it

T h e T a m i l - B r a h m i inscription “Cikai Korran”, with Cikai meaning tuft or crown and Korran meaning leader, was deciphered by Ingo Strauch and Charlotte

S c h m i d o f t h e É c o l e Française d'Extrême-Orient

T h e f i n d s t r e n g t h e n s e v i d e n c e o f a n c i e n t t r a d e links between Tamil Nadu and the West, showing that Tamil merchants travelled

Mathura to get India’s first cow culture museum

I ndi a is se t to ope n its firs t

c o w c u lt u r e mu s e u m i n Mathura , Uttar P rades h, on l a n d w i th i n P a n d i t

D e e n d a y a l U pa d hy a y a

V e t e r i n a r y Sc i e n c e Uni vers ity

T h e m u s e u m w i l l s h o w c a s e t h e s p i r i t u a l , agricultural, and economic i m p o r t a n c e o f c o w s , h i g h l i g h t i n g t h e i r c o n s e r v a t i o n , d a i l y u s e s , and role in society, aiming to educate visitors beyond religious significance

O f f i c i a l s , i n c l u d i n g

B r a j T e e r t h V i k

S

proposed museum site in Mathura

T h e m u s e u

l feature around 100 displays o f m a j o r a n d r a r e c a t t l e breeds, highlight milk and dairy products like curd, c h e e s e , a n d g h e e , a n d include a dairy parlour It will showcase the cow as a m o t h e r f i g u r e i n I n d i

promoting Braj’s identity and a scientific, cow-based rural economy under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s guidance

b e y o n d E g y p t i a n p o r t s t o sites like the Valley of the Kings

A n o t h e r i n s c r i p t i o n , “Cikai Korran – vara kanta”

(“came and saw”), mirrors a c o m m o n G r e e k g r a f f i t i formula, suggesting cultural i n f l u e n c e O t h e r n a m e s , i n c l u d i n g “ K o p a n v a r a t a kantan” and “Catan,” have also been found at Berenike, a major Red Sea port

O f t h e 3 0 i n s c r i p t i o n s documented in the Valley of the Kings, 20 are in Tamil, while the rest are in Sanskrit,

P r a k r i t a n d G a n d h a r iK h a r o s h i , s h o w i n g t h a t traders from north-western and western India, including G u j a r a t a n d M a h a r a s h t r a , were present in the region during the Roman period

Gujarat fifth-top electoral trust fund recipient

A report by the A ssociation fo

India wins bid for World Dairy Summit in ’27

Ind ia will ho st th e Wo

2

D airy Dev elo p m ent Bo ard ( NDDB), h eadqu artered

Dairy Federatio n (IDF) The pact was signed in

and

Director General

presence of Union Minister Chirag Paswan and Minister of State SP Singh Baghel,

India

for flying without ARC

norms

Sources said the DGCA took a strict stance, citing a “ c a s u a l a p p r o a

v al

A i r w o rth i ne s s R ev i ew C ertificate (ARC) , accord ing to a co nfidential ord er The reg ulato r termed the lapse “ s er io u s ” a nd h el d t op m anag em ent respo nsible The aircraft was flown o n m u l t i p l e r o u t e s , including Delhi, Bengaluru, M u m b a i a n d H y d e r a b a d , between November 24 and

2 5 l a s t y e a r w i t h o u t t h e

m a n d a t o r y a n n u a l s a f e t y

c l e a r a n c e , a k e y requirement under aviation

l i t y h a s b

fixed at the top, with Air India CEO Campbell Wilson

lapse

said the incident had been voluntarily reported in

(£16 46 million) All of Gujarat’s funding c

o r t s consistently since 2013-14 O f 2 2 8 c o r p o r a t e contributors in FY 2024-25, 182 donated to Prudent ET, t o t a l l i n g R s 2 , 4 7 9 c r o r e (£200 42 million) O f 9 9 i n d i v i d u a l a n d proprietor contributors to electoral trusts, 96 donated to Prudent ET, totalling Rs 187 5 crore (£15 15 million) Several major Gujarat-based corporates were among the d o n o r s T h e A D R r e p o r t noted that manufacturing firms contributed the most, f o l l o w e d b y r e a l e s t a t e , t e l e c o m , f i n a n c e , i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , p o w e r a n d o i l

M a ny In di an s w it h ov er seas incom e or assets stru ggl e with co mplex tax r u l e s, w h e r e e v e n s m al l r e p o r t i ng m is t ak es ca n result in h eavy fines and legal action

C u r r e n t l y , t a x p a y e r s m u s t d e

New protocol mandates Vande Mataram before national anthem

Th e Indi an Ministry o f H ome

A ff a i r s i s s u e d a

c o m p r eh e ns i ve te n- p a ge

d irective es tabli shi ng a new

p

s ong

ol f o

The Centre has mandated that the six-stanza version of V

M

exactly three minutes and ten seconds, must be performed at all government functions and schools Crucially, when both the national song and

Gana Mana, are featured at

the same event, the national

first The ministry clarified that the audience is required to stand at attention during the performance to maintain

salutation to the motherland

President While the order e

unfurling of the Tricolour, it p

stating that audiences need not stand if the song features

interrupting the exhibition

B

t o standardise patriotic displays a c r o s s t h e c o u

instructions underscore that while not every occasion can

always be rendered with the dignity befitting its historical status

Mumbai named host for Earthshot 2026

Mum bai has been chos en to hos t t he 2 02 6 E a r th s

hailing India a s a major f or ce for c limate act ion T h e a n n

m e n t came during Mumbai’s inaugural Climate Action Week, attended by leaders from science, business, politics, and the arts, and featuring past I n d i a n E a r t h s h o t f

sharing their environmental initiatives

William told Reuters that India’s scale and its young p o

ceeds in India at scale can

where Together we can rise to meet our greatest challenge, repairing and restoring our planet by 2030

ject, is midway through its d

reward solutions that protect the planet Awards span five categories: Protect and Restore N

Revive Our Oceans, Build a Waste-Free World, and Fix

Attenborough, and Jacinda Ardern

Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed the news, saying, “The Earthshot Prize is the

Hosting it in Mumbai this November highlights India’s leadership and commitment to turning climate goals into real action ”

AAIB seeks US help in Ajit Pawar crash probe

T h e A i r c r a f t A c c i de n t

I n ve s t i g a t i on B u r e au ( AA IB) an nounc ed that it

h a s re q u es t e d s p e c i a li s e d i n te r n a t i on a l s u p po r t to retrieve data from a da m-

a g e d c oc k p i t v o i c e rec order

The move follows the fatal crash of a Learjet 45 near Baramati on January

2 8 , w h i c h k i l l e d Maharashtra Deputy Chief

M i n i s t e r A j i t P a w a r a n d four others The aircraft,

operated by VSR Ventures, was attempting a second approach to the runway in heavy fog when it veered off, flipped, and burst into flames

Investigators recovered two flight recorders, both of which suffered extensive f i r e d a m a g e a f t e r b e i n g e

Data Recorder (DFDR) was successfully downloaded in N e w D e l h i , t h e C

has approached the United States, the state of manufacture, for technical assis-

( N C P ) demands a CBI probe amid

the AAIB remains committed to a transparent, evi-

o n in accordance with international ICAO standards

Navjot Kaur Sidhu slams Rahul Gandhi

F o r m er C o n g res s M L A

Navjot Kau r Sid hu launched a blistering attack on Rahu l Gand hi claiming the L eader o f the Op positio n is d isco nnected fro m g ro und realities

Speaking to the media in Coimbatore, she alleged that Rahul lives in a dream world and fails to address the systemic corruption rotting the Congress’s Punjab unit The 62-year-old leader, who was officially expelled from the party on February 6 following a period of suspension, famously told reporters that Rahul does not deserve that chair if he remains oblivious

PM Modi launches major projects in Assam

P ri m e M in is t er Nar en d ra Mo di conclu ded a hig h-profile visit to A ssam, where he i nau gu rated inf rastru ctu re projects exceeding Rs 5,500 cro re

to the actions of his subordinates

Navjot Kaur, wife of former Punjab Congress chief Navjot Singh Sidhu, claimed she sought an appointment w i t h G a n d h i f o r e i g h t months to warn him about the ticket scam and internal sabotage in Punjab, but was i g n o r e d

Modi, praising the latter's personal integrity and grass-

remarks follow her explosive

₹500 crore briefcase, a claim that triggered her initial suspension With Punjab polls

7 , h e r exit signals a deepening crisis within the state leadership Navjot Kaur Sidhu

A primary highlight was the opening of the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu, a sixlane extradosed bridge over the Brahmaputra River costing Rs 3,030 crore This 7 75 km structure, funded by the N e w D e v e l o p m e n t B a n k , slashes travel time between G u w a h a t i

n d N o r t h

Guwahati from 30 minutes to just seven

Furthering the region's

Amingaon, a Rs 348 crore facility designed to bolster the Northeast's ICT backbone He also inaugurated

Guwahati, the 22nd in India, which will

Chhattisgarh aims to eradicate naxalism by March

C hhattisg arh Deputy Chief M

ate aims to comp letely eradicate Naxalism by M arch 31

During a press confere n c e i n R a i p u r , S h a r m a revealed that since January 2024, security forces have killed 532 Naxals, arrested 2 , 0 0 4 , a n d f a c i l i t a t e d t h e surrender of 2,700 others H i g h l i g h t i n g a s t r a t e g i c s h i f t , h e n o t e d t h a t t h e number of surrenders has f i n a l l y s u r p a s s e d a r r e s t s , indicating a turning point in the decades-long insurgency

Security operations have resulted in the recovery of 1 , 1 0 0 w e a p o n s , i n c l u d i n g machine guns and mortars, alongside the neutralisation of six top Politburo memb e r s B e y o n d c o m b a t , t h e government has established seven rehabilitation centres where 1,700 former insurg e n t s h a v e r e c e i v e d s k i l l training Efforts to integrate B a s t a r ' s r e m o t e v i l l a g e s i n v o l v e p r o v i d i n g s c h o o l s , e l e c t r i c i t y , a n d t h e Integrated Criminal Justice

S y s t e m A d d i t i o n a l l y , t h e s t a t e ' s A n t i - T e r r o r i s m

Squad registered its first FIR

Vijay Sharma

in 2025 regarding ISIS links, while new task forces have already deported 34 illegal i m m i g r a n t s t o e n s u r e regional stability

Congress faces crucial tests in state polls

The Congre ss party en ters 2026 facing a high- stak es e l e ct o r a l s e

A s s a m, W

t B e n g a l , K e r a l a , a n d T a mi l Na d u duri ng A pril a nd May F o l l o w i n g s i g n i f i c a n t defeats in Delhi and Bihar last year, these Assembly elections are viewed as a v

i t m u s t

o r t h e party s relevance ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha polls While the party maintains hope in Kerala, buoyed by a s

2025 local body elections, internal rifts between veterans Shashi Tharoor and R a m e s h C h e n n i t h a l a threaten its collective leadership pitch

y officially announced on 5 February 2026 that it will contest all 294 seats independently after failing to secure an alliance with the Trinamool Congress or the Left

Meanwhile, Assam was rocked by the resignation o f f o r m e r s t a t e c h i e f Bhupen Borah on February 16, who is set to join the BJP on February 22

I n T a m i l N a d u , t h e Congress has reaffirmed its alliance with the DMK as of February 17, yet tensions persist over power-sharing demands and seat allocations Conversely, the outlook remains bleak in West B e n g

External A ffairs Mi ni ster Dr S Jai shankar and hi s Canad ian counterpart Ani ta Anand met to d iscus s a signi fi cant strengtheni ng o f bi lateral relati ons

Speaking on the side-lines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany, the two ministers focused on advancing partnership opportunities in critical sectors including energy, technology, and trade This meeting marks the fifth high-level interaction between the pair since September 2025, signalling a decisive "reset" in diplomacy following years of strained relations A key focus of the dialogue was the

Canada–India Relations, a strategic framework established in October 2025 to rebuild trust and economic resilience The talks come at a pivotal moment, as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to make a landmark visit to New Delhi in early March 2026 This upcoming trip is expected to finalise major deals in uranium supply and artificial intelligence, while also accelerating negotiations for

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and his Canadian counterpart Anita Anand

Move or lose muscle

Muscle loss is often blamed on ageing, but inactivity is a far bigger culprit Studies show that just two weeks of reduced movement or bed rest can lead to noticeable declines in muscle strength and mass, even in young, healthy adults This rapid loss affects balance, metabolism and overall mobility Regular movement, resistance training and daily activity are essential to preserve muscle and prevent long-term weakness

GUT FEELINGBEATING THE RAINY-DAY BLUES

Why prioritising your mental health matters during long wet spells

Asrelentless rain continues to drench large parts of the United Kingdom, many people are noticing more than just flooded streets and grey skies, they are feeling emotionally drained, unmotivated and low

experienced an unusually persistent “ conveyor belt” of winter storms, bringing near-daily rainfall to some regions for weeks While frustrating, the psychological impact of this kind of prolonged gloom can be significant

Why rainy weather affects your mood

Sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating our internal body clock, known as the circadian rhythm When daylight

hormones and brain chemicals, including serotonin, often called the “feel-good” chemical

Reduced exposure to daylight, common during long rainy periods, can disrupt this balance This is why some people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression linked to shorter, darker days Even those without SAD can feel more tired, irritable or down when sunlight is scarce

Health guidance from organisations such as NHS and mental health charity Mind emphasises that weatherrelated mood changes are real and valid, but there are practical ways to protect your wellbeing

The hidden impact of staying indoors

Rain often means cancelled walks, fewer social plans

activity and social interaction are both strongly linked to better mental health E

depression and anxiety, improve sleep, and boost selfesteem Meanwhile, social connection helps reduce feelings of isolation, which can worsen low mood

especially helpful for regulating your body clock

2 Keep mov ing : Exercise regularly, whether indoors or o u t d o o r

stretching can improve mood

3 Maintain social contact: Reach out to friends, family or colleagues A conversation, even over the phone, can lift your spirits

4 Create a cosy but activ e environment: Instead of withdrawing completely, make your indoor space uplifting play music, cook, read or pursue hobbies that bring joy

5 Stick to a routine: Sleeping and waking at consistent times helps stabilise mood and energy levels

6 C onsi der lig ht th erapy: Light boxes that mimic natural sunlight are sometimes recommended for people affected by seasonal mood changes

7 Be kind to yourself: Low motivation during gloomy weather is normal Rest when needed, but balance it with gentle activity

A reminder to check in with yourself

Spending time in nature- parks, riversides or coastal areas also offers unique psychological benefits

Known as “

wellbeing

How to protect your mental health during rainy periods

While you cannot change the weather, you can change how you respond to it Experts recommend several simple but effective strategies: 1 M

Persistent low mood, loss of interest in daily activities, sleep problems or feelings of hopelessness may signal depression In such cases, professional support can make a significant difference

Above all, experts stress that mental health needs the same attention and care as physical health, especially during challenging seasons Rain may be unavoidable, but protecting your wellbeing is not Small, consistent steps can help bring light even to the greyest days

The humble spice that could help fight diabetes

Health experts are drawing attention to a fam iliar kitchen staple, tu rmeric, for its promising role in su pporting blood sugar control

curcumin, an active compound widely

properties, which researchers say may benefit people with or at risk of type 2 diabetes

Studies suggest curcumin can help lower blood glucose and HbA1c levels, key markers used to assess long-term blood sugar control Its effects are often

prescribed diabetes medications, as it appears to reduce glucose production i

sensitivity This allows the body’s cells

to respond more effectively to insulin and use glucose more efficiently

complementary approach rather than

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are major contributors to type 2

inflammatory action may help address

these underlying causes

improve metabolic health overall and potentially delay the onset of diabetes in high-risk individuals When used a

levels

Curcumin’s benefits may extend beyond blood sugar Evidence suggests it can help regulate cholesterol, support h e a r

stress Early findings also link it to

exercise recovery

Brain training and lifelong learning could help cut dementia risk

S imp le mental exercises, from playing

b ra i n- s p e ed ga me s to r ea di n g an d learning languages , co uld significantly reduce the risk o f dementia and h elp keep th e brain health ier for longer, accordi ng to new research

S c i e n t i s t s a n a l y s i n g a m a j o r U S clinical trial have found that a specific type of computer-based “processing speed” training may lower the risk of A l z h e i m e r ’ s d i s e a s e a n d r e l a t e d

dementias by up to 25 per cent The study followed 2,802 healthy adults aged over 65 for 20 years as part of the landmark ACTIVE trial

P a r t i c i p a n t s w e r e a s s i g n e d t o memory training, reasoning exercises, s p e e d - o f - p r o c e s s i n g t r a i n i n g , o r n o

training The speed training involved fast-paced visual tasks, such as quickly identifying objects on a screen, which

b

c

challenging

Over two decades, nearly half of those in the control group developed d e m e n t i a H o w e v e r , t h o s e w

a significantly lower risk of diagnosis

R

suggest targeted brain exercises, even when started later in life, could help d

factors, such as participants’ overall health and motivation, may also have influenced the results

powerful role of lifelong learning A study by researchers at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago found that activities such as reading, writing and learning new languages could reduce

dementia risk by up to 40 per cent and slow cognitive decline

Dementia is one of the fastestgrowing global health challenges, with cases projected to exceed 150 million worldwide by 2050 While there is no

Radhika Sarathkumar reveals skin tone insecurity

Veteranactress Radhika Sarathkumar shared a poignant memory from her early career, highlighting the pervasive skin tone pressures in Indian cinema

In an interview Radhika recounted a specific moment during the filming of the 1986 cult classic Swathi Muthyam, directed by K Viswanath The scene required her to embrace her co-star, Kamal Haasan, from behind, but her visible hesitation led the director to halt the shoot and question if the actors disliked one another

The actress revealed that her unease stemmed from intense self-consciousness regarding the contrast in their complexions "I told Kamal Haasan that you are too fair and my hands are two shades darker than my face," she explained, noting that the visual disparity made her feel the shot looked bad Although Kamal Haasan dismissed her concerns as trivial Radhika reflected on how this era coincided with the industry's influx of lighter-skinned heroines Despite these early h h d h h d h

Ram Charan and Upasana name twins Shivram and Anveera

Telugu superstar Ram Charan and his wife Upasana Konidela officially introduced their new-born twins, a boy and a girl, during a traditional naamkaran ceremony in Hyderabad

January 2026, revealed they have named their son Shivram and their daughter Anveera Devi Ram Charan

Chiranjeevi's birth name, Shiv Shankar Vara Prasad, while blending the ideals of Lord Shiva and Lord Ram Anveera Devi signifies boundless courage, with Devi added to represent the coexistence of strength and grace

The intimate ceremony followed a meticulously planned birth that incorporated both modern medicine and astrological guidance, with the delivery occurring at 11:30 pm to align with an auspicious muhurat This marks the couple s second journey into parenthood after their daughter, Klin Kaara, was born in June 2023

Adivi Sesh calls India a nepo country

Actor Adivi Sesh sparked a national conversation on nepotism by describing India as a "nepo country" during an interview

Reflecting on his journey from San Francisco to Tollywood, the actor shared how he was frequently judged during auditions for either being "too American" or "too South Indian" for various roles Sesh noted that in India, the expectation is often for a doctor's son to become a doctor or a farmer's son to stay a farmer, a c

established film families

throughout her pregnancy, described this experience as "calmer and more conscious " The family expressed deep gratitude to their elders and fans, emphasising that the names are not mere identifiers but spiritual aspirations for their children’s futures

Despite these hurdles, Sesh highlighted how he earned the respect of major industry figures who supported his outsider journey His breakthrough came by writing his own scripts, such as the 2022 hit Major, which was produced by Mahesh Babu Currently, Sesh is preparing for the release of the action-thriller Dacoit on April 10, followed by the highly anticipated spy sequel G2 on May 1 By collaborating with producers like Nani and the Annapurna Studios family, Sesh argued that while the system is rigid, the audience remains the ultimate democratic force in deciding an actor's success

Actress Sreeleela completes MBBS degree

Popular South Indian actress Sreeleela officially became a qualified doctor, receiving her MBBS degree from DY Patil University in Navi Mumbai

The 24-year-old star, who has balanced a high-profile film career with rigorous medical studies for six years, attended the convocation ceremony in maroon academic robes Viral footage from the event captured the actress, who belongs to the Class of 2020, taking the modern Hippocratic Oath alongside her classmates Her achievement follows in the footsteps of her mother, Dr Swarnalatha, a renowned gynaecologist based in Bengaluru

Despite filming blockbusters like Guntur Kaaram and featuring in the viral “Kissik” song in ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’, Sreeleela maintained her academic commitments, often studying between shots Beyond her professional and academic life, Sreeleela is a mother to three adopted girls: two differently-abled children, Guru and Shobhitha, adopted in 2022, and a third baby girl welcomed in April 2025 Looking ahead, she is set to make her Bollywood debut in Anurag Basu’s musical romance alongside Kartik Aaryan, while her Telugu film ‘Ustaad Bhagat Singh’ is scheduled for release on March 26

Farhan Akhtar cast as Ravi Shankar in ‘Beatles’ biopics

Sony Pictures announced that Bollywood actor-director Farhan Akhtar will make his Hollywood feature debut in Sam Mendes’ ambitious fourpart Beatles biopic project

Akhtar has been roped in to port

Pandit Ravi Shankar, whose profound friendship with George Harrison in the 1960s famously introduced Indian classical music and Eastern spirituality to the band’s sound This role

m

milestone for Akhtar, who previously m a

Marvel series Ms Marvel

The project, titled The Beatles: A Four-Film Cinematic Event, is a historic undertaking where four separate feature films will be released simultaneously in April 2028 Filming is curr

Kingdom, with Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Joseph Quinn as George

H

Ringo Starr The ensemble cast also features Lucy Boynton as Jane Asher

a n d M o r f y d d C l a r k a s C y n t h i a Lennon By securing full music and life story rights from Apple Corps, Mendes aims to deliver a binge able theatrical experience that explores the band’s meteoric rise and eventual 1970 breakup through a multifaceted lens

Priyanka Chopra recalls terrifying career reset in Hollywood

Global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas opened up about the terrifying experience of restarting her career in Hollywood during her thirties.

In a candid interview with Variety, the 43-year-old actor admitted she chose to blow up a secure, financially lucrative peak in Bollywood to pursue a fresh start in the United States around 2015 Despite having just delivered hits like Bajirao Mastani, she faced significant hurdles, including novelty casting and preconceived notions from Western producers who were surprised by her fluent English

After nearly a decade leading international projects like Citadel and the upcoming pirate thriller The Bluff, Chopra is now preparing for a major Indian comeback She stars as Mandakini, a mysterious thief, in SS Rajamouli’s magnum opus, Varanasi The 1,400 crore action-adventure, co-starring Mahesh Babu as a Shiva devotee and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist, is a time-travelling epic spanning from 512 CE to 2027 CE Currently filming in Hyderabad, the movie features globe-trotting sequences in Antarctica and Kenya Chopra reportedly requested a dedicated dance number for the film, which is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on April 7, 2027

Zayn Malik talks about new album ‘Konnakol’

Global pop star Zayn Malik

provided new insights into his upcoming fifth studio album, titled Konnakol, which is scheduled for release on April 17 via Mercury Records.

T h e 3 3 - y e a rold singer revealed that the project i p r o f o u n d t r i b u t e t o h i s

voice serves as the primary rhythmic instrument

South Asian heritage, specific a l l y d r a w i n g i n s p i r a t i o n f r o m t h e a n c i e n t S o u t h

Indian Carnatic tradition of Konnakol, the art of performing percussion syllables vocally This vocal-driven approach influenced the album's entire architecture; Malik famously layered his own voice to create intricate, drum-like beats, mirroring the essence of the tradition where the human

The announcement follows Malik’s successful even-night residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas, which concluded on January

3 1 D u r i n

miered several tracks, including the lead single "Die for Me," which officially d

y 6 Featuring 15 tracks, the album marks a shift back to his R&Bpop roots, following his 2024 acoustic project Room Under t h e S t a

embark on a 31-date global arena tour starting May 12

Ratna Pathak Shah criticises young actors

Veteran actor Ratna Pathak Shah voiced her strong disapproval of a growing trend where young actors prioritise being "cute entertainers" on film sets over their craft. I

sive interview, the 6

believes ultimately results in poor performances and infantilises the profession Shah, a stalwart of Indian cinema for

n the 2016 family drama Kapoor & Sons, Shah noted that despite not

scenes, she was deeply impressed

described how Bhatt would spend her time at the moni-

other actors even when she was not required to film Shah

n g extremely gifted and focused and for resisting the pressure to act like a "cute entertainer," proving that serious observation is the hallmark of a true artist

Rajpal Yadav walks out of Tihar jail on interim bail

Acto r Rajpal Yadav w as granted interim bail by th e Delhi High Court in a 9 crore cheque bou nce case after spending ov er a week in T ihar Jail

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma allowed bail until March 18, on condition that Yadav deposit a Rs 1 lakh bail bond and provide one surety Earlier, the court had directed him to pay Rs 1 5 crore by afternoon for interim relief After confirmation from the complainant’s lawyer that the amount was deposited, the bail was granted Rajpal Yadav, jailed over a decade-old 9 crore loan for his 2010 film ‘Ata Pata Laapata’, will remain out of Tihar Jail until the next hearing, by which time he is expected to repay the remaining dues

He and his wife Radha were convicted in 2018 under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, with the conviction upheld in 2019 The Delhi HC suspended his sentence in 2024, directing him to take “sincere measures ” to clear the dues

After his February 2026 surrender, Yadav received Bollywood support, including Sonu Sood signing him for a film, with FWICE and stars like Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn also reaching out

India set record as Pakistan deploy spin tactics

India secured a commanding 61run victory over Pakistan at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo

B

surface, India posted a formidable 175 for 7, their highest-ever T20 W

spearheaded by Ishan Kishan, who smashed a blistering 77 off 40 balls, featuring ten boundaries and

Abhishek Sharma for a duck in the opening over to Pakistan’s captain

S

through Kishan’s dominance and

Yadav (32) and Shivam Dube (27)

made history as they became the

Abrar Ahmed, initially restricted India's momentum, but the "Men in Blue" surged late to set a target

Pakistan’s chase crumbled under

match, equalling the tournament record of 18 overs of spin in a single

pressure, folding for just 114 in 18 overs as Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah dismantled the top order, moving India to the top of Group A Canadian teen Yuvraj Samra’s T20 century opens doors 19-year-old Yuvraj Samra from

Pramod Bhagat makes history with sixth world title

B y c l i n c h i n g t h i s t i t l e , B h a g a t h a s s u r p a s s e d t h e record of Chinese icon Lin D a n , w h

a n t lower-limb impairments

Brampton, Canada, played cricket for passion After his record 65-ball 110 against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup, he hopes to turn it into a career Named after India’s Yuvraj Singh by his cricket-loving father, Samra became the youngest to score a T20 World Cup century and the first from an Associate nation He hit 11 fours and six sixes in Canada’s 173-run total, falling in the final over against Jacob Duffy “I feel this inning could change my life and allow me to make a living from cricket, especially being from Canada,” he said S

challenges of training in Canada, where cricket is mostly limited to

tournament tours abroad He also credited his father for constant

ovation from 16,000 Chennai fans made the moment unforgettable Australia out of world cup

suffered

shock group-stage exit from the T20 World Cup after Zimbabwe’s clash with Ireland was

Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar wins Gold, sets World and Asian records

li v er ed a c lu tc h

1 0 7 o n h i s fi na l s h o t to

powerful redemption for the Tokyo Paralympic champion, who returned to the court in

golden double in Bahrain by winning the men ’ s doubles S L

bodied world titles, making the Indian shuttler the most decorated singles player in

para-badminton stage

Koneru Humpy returns to Norway Chess Women 2026

I ndi an ches s legend Koneru H umpy will make her third appearance at the Norway Chess Women, taking place from May 2 5 to June 5 i n

O s l o H u m py e xp re s s e d exci tement about returning to a tournament s he enjoys for its strong competition a n d w el c om i n g atmosphere

“I’m thrilled to be part of Norway Chess Women again I’ve always enjoyed the high level of play, the w a r m e n v i r o n m e n t , a n d excellent organisation I’m l o o k i n g f o r w a r d t o competing against some of

t h e w o r l d ’ s s t r o n g e s t players in Oslo,” she said

second woman to cross the 2600 Elo mark

Humpy has continued

Championship twice (2019

second at the 2025 FIDE

securing a spot in the 2026

s na tc h g o l d f ro m N i raj Rajp ut at th e A sian Sh ooting C ham pionships, setting new W or ld an d A si a n rec o rd s with a total o f 3 62 0 in the

5 0 m r if le th r ee p o s i ti o ns event

C o m p e t i n g u n d e r t h e revised 22-minute combined f o r m a t , A i s h w a r y s a i d h i s f a m i l i a r i t y w i t h h i g hpressure duels helped him s t

chasing from behind India completed a podium sweep, with Akhil Sheoran claiming

Pratap Singh Tomar secured a career-defining silver in the 50m rifle three positions a t t h e W o r l d C h a m p i o n s h i p s , f i n i s h i n g behind Olympic and world c h a m p i o n L i u Y u k u n

Having led before the final shot, a 9 8 cost him gold, a s e t b a c k h e n o w s e e s a s motivation The medal, he said, boosted his confidence in a field as competitive as the Olympics

L o o k i n g a h e a d , Aishwary is targeting gold at t h e u p c o m i n g W o r l d

Championships and a first i n d i v i d u a l m e d a l a t t h e Asian Games in 2026 Since the Paris Olympics 2024, he has intensified his focus on strength, conditioning and cardio to sharpen his edge

Indian throwers shine at Open Masters Games

clinched the gold medal with

personal best

of

She made history in 2002 as the first Indian woman to earn the Grandmaster title at just 15, then the youngest

K o n e r u H u m p y i s widely regarded as one of the greatest female chess players of her generation

Mogan’s victory was marked by remarkable consistency, r e c o r d i n g v a l i d t h r o w s o f 3 5 9 4 m e t r e s a n d 3 6 9 7 m e t r e s b e f o r e h i s w i n n i n g effort at the Zayed Sports City athletics track The ten-day event made h i s t o r y a s t h e

Honey Baisoya ends title drought

Hockey team stranded in Australia

Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar

Koneru Humpy

Goel