Month: February 2025

Fire that broke out in the Mahakumbh Mela Kshetra on Friday morning has been brought under control, an official said.

As many as 20-22 tents were burnt in this fire incident, however, no injury or loss of live was reported in the incident.

Speaking to ANI, Chief Fire Officer Pramod Sharma, stated that the fire started from ISKCON tent and simultaneously it brought several tents under it.

“The fire has been brought under control. It began from ISKCON and then other tents also caught fire. There has been no loss of lives or burn injuries… 20-22 tents are burnt,” CFO Pramod Sharma told ANI.

A police official said that the reason behind the fire is being investigated.

SP city Sarvesh Kumar Mishra said, “The fire has been brought under control. There has been no loss of lives. The reason behind the fire is under investigation.”

Earlier today, the fire broke out in Sector 18 of the Mahakumbh Mela Kshetra in Prayagraj, prompting a swift response from firefighters.

This incident comes on the heels of another fire that occurred last week, where 15 tents in an open area in Prayagraj caught fire. The incident happened in the Chatnag Ghat Police Station area.

Fortunately, no casualties were reported, and the fire was quickly brought under control. The tents were later found to be unauthorised.

“We got information about a fire in 15 tents under the Chatnag Ghat Police Station area, today. Taking immediate action, the fire was brought under control and doused,” UP Fire Department official Pramod Sharma said.

Previous incidents at the Maha Kumbh include a fire caused by an explosion of cooking gas cylinders, as well as a tragic stampede that resulted in 30 deaths and 60 injuries on January 29.

Uttar Pradesh government announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased. UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also ordered a judicial inquiry and said that a judicial committee will submit its report to the state government within a time limit.

Mahakumbh, which started on January 13, will continue till February 26. The remaining significant ‘snan’ dates in Mahakumbh are February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri). (ANI)

Filmmaker Karan Johar is celebrating his twins, Yash and Roohi Johar’s birthday, who turned eight years old on Friday.

Karan took to his social media to share an adorable birthday wish for his children, accompanied by heartwarming pictures of himself with them.

In his heartfelt note, the ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ director reflected on the joy of fatherhood, writing, “My biggest achievement is one of being a father…”

https://www.instagram.com/p/DFwgP0OyNu6/?img_index=1

He also shared a touching explanation of why he named his children after his late parents, Yash Johar and Hiroo Johar.

Karan Johar wrote, “I named them after my parents because I felt beyond a lineage or a name, an emotion must continue… They are my world!!!”

Karan concluded his message writing, “Happy birthday Roohi and Yash… My biggest prayer for you both is to be kind always.”

Celebrities including Farah Khan, Kajol, Manish Malhotra, and Malaika Arora, also shared their birthday wishes for the twins.

Karan Johar became a father to Yash and Roohi in February 2017 via surrogacy. He named his son Yash after his late father, a renowned filmmaker, and chose the name Roohi as an anagram of his mother’s name, Hiroo. (ANI)

Schools in Delhi and NCR received bomb threats on Friday, prompting immediate closures and a switch to online classes.

A guardian of one student shared that they received news of the closure and online classes just today, suspecting it was due to the bomb threat.

“School administration is saying that school is closed today, and the classes will run online… They said nothing, but I think it’s because of the bomb threat,” he said.

Earlier today, several schools in Delhi and Noida received a bomb threat. The police have started an investigation and Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) is being followed.

Ahlcon International School in Delhi’s Mayur Vihar-1 informed Pandav Nagar police station that an email was received through email to the principal of the school today regarding a bomb threat.

According to the police, the information was provided at 6:40 am. It was shared with the control room. The bomb disposal squad of East District was informed accordingly. Station Head Officer (SHO) Pandav Nagar along with staff reached the school.

The Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) checked the school premises and nothing suspicious was found.

The Principal of the school also informed the parents through email that due to the threat to the safety of students, the campus would be closed on Friday.

Shiv Nadar School in Noida also received a threat. Afterwards, the Noida police, bomb squad, fire brigade, Dog Squad, and BDDS team immediately checked all the places.

“Senior police officers are present on the spot. The cyber team is investigating the email. The public is requested not to pay heed to the rumours and maintain patience,” the Noida police said.

St Stephens College in North Delhi was also among the educational institutions that received the threat.

According to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, North District, today at 07:42 AM a bomb threat via email was received by the college. “Our BDT is on the ground and doing a check,” the police said.

Earlier, Delhi Police cracked down on a series of hoax bomb threats sent to over 400 schools across the national capital, arresting a juvenile responsible for the menacing emails, officials said.

The accused, a public school student, was identified and apprehended after a thorough technical investigation by the Cyber Cell of the South District police.

The police recovered a laptop and two mobile phones from the accused, which were subjected to forensic analysis. The digital evidence revealed the accused’s involvement in sending threatening emails to numerous schools in Delhi.

The accused used anonymous and encrypted email services to conceal his identity but was eventually caught through advanced technical methods, according to the police.

Upon further analysis of the recovered digital devices and the confession of the accused, it was established that so far, he was involved in several previous instances of similar threatening emails sent to more than 400 schools in Delhi, police said.

On 8th January 2025, around 23 schools in Delhi received threatening emails warning of bombs planted on their premises, causing widespread panic, school closures, and disruption of academic activities. (ANI)

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas were seen arriving at the Sangeet ceremony venue for Siddharth Chopra and Neelam Upadhyaya’s wedding festivities on Thursday evening.

Nick Jonas, who had not been part of the earlier wedding celebrations of his brother-in-law Siddharth, arrived in India today to take part in the wedding celebrations.

The couple twinned in navy blue ethnic wear. The ‘Barfi’ actress was seen wearing a blue lehenga while pop singer Nick Jonas donned an all-blue outfit which included a blue sherwani and pants.

Priyanka enhanced her glamorous look with a dazzling diamond necklace, bracelet, and rings.

Soon after reaching the venue, they joined Siddharth and Neelam for photographs. The soon-to-be-married couple looked gorgeous in their outfits.

Neelam donned a silver lehenga while Siddharth looked dashing in a blue sherwani.

Priyanka Chopra, who is currently in Mumbai for the wedding, has been in the spotlight during the ongoing celebrations.

On Wednesday night, the mehendi and haldi functions were held, where Priyanka was seen enjoying herself, dancing, and celebrating with her family.

During the mehendi celebration, Priyanka exuded elegance in an ivory dress featuring a sleeveless corset-style choli paired with a lehenga skirt.

The outfit, adorned with intricate multicoloured embroidery, combined tradition with a fresh, modern appeal. Priyanka’s makeup was natural, with a dewy finish, and her soft, wavy curls cascaded down her shoulders, completing the ethereal look.

To elevate her style, she accessorized with a stunning diamond and pink pear-drop necklace, matching earrings, rings, and a bracelet.

Priyanka was accompanied by her in-laws, Paul Kevin Jonas, Sr. and Denise Miller-Jonas, both of whom looked equally stunning.

Kevin Jonas wore a traditional sherwani, while Denise looked radiant in a coral-coloured saree. Her hairstyle, adorned with white flowers, added a charming touch to her graceful appearance.

Priyanka’s brother, Siddharth Chopra, was also seen at the event in a classic sherwani. He posed alongside his cousin sisters for photographers.

Meanwhile, Priyanka’s cousin, Mannara Chopra, showcased her mehendi and posed for the cameras as well.

The pre-wedding events were filled with joy and excitement, with Priyanka sharing glimpses of the ceremonies on social media.

She posted several pictures from the Haldi ceremony, where she danced and celebrated with her loved ones.

Siddharth Chopra’s wedding to Neelam Upadhyaya has been highly anticipated. The couple became engaged in August 2024, following their Roka ceremony in April 2024. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to co-chair the AI Summit with France on February 11th in Paris, alongside other key stakeholders, including the US Vice President and the Vice Prime Minister of China, according to diplomatic sources.

PM Modi will co-chair the upcoming Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron with global leaders such as US Vice President JD Vance and China’s Vice Prime Minister Ding Xuexiang, along with other key stakeholders.

The AI Summit, part of the Paris Peace Forum, aims to promote an ethical, sustainable, and inclusive approach to AI development and deployment.

With PM Modi’s participation, India is poised to play a significant role in shaping the global AI agenda.

During his visit, PM Modi will also engage in talks with top CEOs of French companies, exploring opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Furthermore, he will hold a bilateral discussion with President Macron in Marseille on February 12th, marking a significant moment in India-France relations.

The two nations have been making progress in various fields, including aerospace, engines, and submarines. Additionally, advanced talks on civil nuclear energy and reactors are underway, with the possibility of concrete announcements during PM Modi’s visit.

In another development, India is set to open a new Consulate in Marseille, further strengthening its diplomatic presence in Southern France. This move is expected to enhance trade, cultural, and people-to-people ties between India and France.

Earlier on January 31, the official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal said that French President Macron invited PM Modi to attend the AI Action Summit, and India has accepted the invite.

While speaking at a press briefing, Jaiswal said that India is also developing its own AI programme.

“French President has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit and we have accepted their invite. We will update you about further details,” he had said.

Earlier while addressing the 30th Conference of Ambassadors in Paris on January 11, President Macron had said PM Modi would visit the country.

“France will be hosting the AI Summit on February 10-11. A summit for action, as we call it. This summit will allow for an international conversation on AI. There will be Prime Minister Modi, who will move up to a major visit in our country as we want to forge a dialogue with all powers on AI,” said Macron.

On February 10-11, France will host the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit, gathering at the Grand Palais, Heads of State and Government, leaders of international organizations, CEOs of small and large companies, representatives of academia, non-governmental organisations, artists and members of civil society, a statement by the Elysee Palace had said. (ANI)

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra has introduced an exclusive ‘.bank.in’ internet domain for Indian banks to combat financial fraud, along with stricter authentication protocols for digital transactions, while unveiling the Monetary Policy on Friday.

“The Reserve Bank shall implement the bank.in exclusive Internet domain for Indian banks,” Malhotra said.

In a bid to reduce online financial frauds, the RBI will implement the ‘bank.in’ domain exclusively for banks in India starting April 2025.

Malhotra emphasized that this initiative will ensure customers can distinguish legitimate banking websites from fraudulent ones. Following this, a ‘fin.in’ domain will be introduced for the broader financial sector.

Expressing concern over the surge in digital fraud, Malhotra stressed the need for joint action by all stakeholders.

He said, “The surge in digital fraud is a matter of concern. It warrants action by all stakeholders. The Reserve Bank has been taking various measures to enhance digital security in the banking and payment system.”

He added, “The introduction of an additional factor of authentication for digital payments is one such measure. It is now proposed to extend this to online international digital payments made to offshore merchants who are enabled for such authentication.”

The RBI has already introduced additional authentication factors for digital payments, and this security measure will now be extended to online international transactions made to offshore merchants, ensuring safer cross-border digital payments.

To help market participants manage interest rate risks, the RBI has expanded its suite of interest rate derivative products.

A new forward contract for government securities will be introduced, benefiting long-term investors such as insurance funds. This will enable more efficient pricing of derivatives linked to government securities and enhance risk management across interest rate cycles.

In an effort to boost retail participation in government securities, the RBI has announced expanded access to the NDS-OM platform, which facilitates secondary market trading of government securities.

The move will allow non-bank brokers registered with SEBI to access the platform, further deepening the bond market and increasing participation from non-bank financial entities.

Acknowledging evolving market dynamics, the RBI will set up a working group to conduct a comprehensive review of trading and settlement timings across the five different RBI-regulated financial markets. The group, comprising representatives from various stakeholders, will submit its report by April 30, 2025.

The credit-deposit ratio (CDR) of banks stood at 80.8 per cent as of January 2025, remaining stable compared to September 2024.

Malhotra reassured that liquidity buffers in banks remain adequate, with strong Return on Assets (RoA) and Return on Equity (RoE) despite a moderation in net interest margins. The financial system for Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) also remains robust. (ANI)

Solid three wicket hauls by spinner Ravindra Jadeja and debutant pacer Harshit Rana helped India overcome half-centuries from skipper Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell, restricting England to 248 in 47.4 overs at Nagpur’s Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium on Thursday.

India needs 249 runs to secure a 1-0 lead in the series.

England elected to bat first after winning the toss. Openers Phil Salt and Ben Duckett gave a fine start to England. Salt saved his best for debutant Harshit Rana, greeting him with two boundaries in his first over anf then demolishing him with a 26-run sixth over, consisting of three sixes and two fours.

England reached the 50-run mark in just six overs.

Duckett also got some runs under his belt, hitting Axar Patel’s spin for three fours when it was introduced to the attack.

However, the 75-run stand was put to an end by a brilliant run out by Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, removing Salt for 43 in 28 balls, with five fours and three sixes.

Soon, Duckett became Harshit’s first ODI wicket, as a top edge off his bat went straight into the hands of Yashasvi Jaiswal, who came running from midwicket to take a stunning diving catch. England was 77/2 and Duckett was inside the pavillion for 32 in 29 balls, with six fours.

India ended the first 10 overs of the inning on a high, with extra bounce produced by a Harshit delivery hitting Harry Brook’s glove and going into hands of Rahul. England was 77/3 in 10 overs.

The experienced pair of skipper Jos Buttler and Joe Root focused on stitching a partnership, causing the run-rate to dip. Root’s dissappointing run in ODIs continued as he was trapped leg-before-wicket by Ravindra Jadeja for just 19 runs. England was 111/4 in 18.3 overs, with Jadeja breaking a 34-run stand.

Skipper Buttler got some much needed support from a young Jacob Bethell, as he hit some aggressive boundaries against spinners with the youngster there to hold the other end.

Buttler reached his 27th ODI fifty in 58 balls, with four boundaries.

The 59-run stand between Buttler and Bethell was undone by Axar Patel, with the skipper lobbing the delivery into the hands of Hardik Pandya at short fine leg. Buttler was gone for 52 in 67 balls, with four boundaries. England was 170/5 in 33 overs.

Harshit got the wicket of Liam Livingstone for just five runs, with a thin edge going into hands of Rahul behind the stumps. England was 183/6 in 35.4 overs.

Brydon Carse and Bethell helped England reach the 200-run mark in 39.1 overs. The partnership was ended when a Mohammed Shami delivery hit the middle stump of Carse, who was dismissed for 10 in 18 balls, with a four. England’s aggressive approach was not giving them anything good, as they slipped to 206/7 in 39.5 overs.

Bethell reached his half-century in 62 balls, with three fours and a six.

Bethell’s fighting knock was ended by Jadeja, who trapped him leg-before-wicket for 51 in 64 balls, with three fours and a six. England was 220/8 in 42.4 overs.

Archer released some pressure, smashing Hardik for two fours and a massive six.

Jadeja put an end to Rashid’s stay at the crease to a 16-ball eight run knock, rattling his stumps. England was 241/9 in their 46.4 overs.

Saqib Mahmood was stumped by Rahul on a Kuldeep delivery, ending the England innings at 248 in 47.4 overs.

Jadeja (3/26) and Harshit (3/53) were standout bowlers for India, though Harshit got hit for some runs. Kuldeep, Axar and Shami got a wicket each.

Brief Scores: England: 248 (Jos Buttle 52, Jacob Bethell 51, Ravindra Jadeja 3/26) vs India. (ANI)

The University Grants Commission (UGC) on Thursday extended the deadline for submitting feedback on the Draft UGC Regulations of 2025 to February 28, which focuses on minimum qualification for appointment and promotion of teachers and academic staff in universities and colleges.

The Draft UGC Regulations, which also focuses on measures for the maintenance of standards in higher education, were uploaded on January 6, requesting feedback from stakeholders connected with academic institutions. The original date to receive feedback was February 5.

“In view of requests received from stakeholders to extend the last date to submit feedback on the draft UGC Regulations 2025, UGC has now decided to extend the last date to February 28, 2025. Stakeholders can submit feedback on the draft regulations till 28/02/2025,” the notice signed by UGC Secretary Manish R Joshi read.

Earlier, six states adopted a joint resolution seeking the withdrawal of draft Regulations, 2025.

Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Karnataka adopted the 15-point resolution at the conclave of State Higher Education Ministers-2025 in Bengaluru on Wednesday.

The states said that the draft UGC regulations do not envisage any role for the state governments in the appointment of the vice-chancellors of public universities established under state Acts and thus impinge on the legitimate rights of the state in a federal set-up. The resolution demanded that the State Governments must be given a pivotal role in the appointment of vice-chancellors to state public universities.

The resolution says that the regulations severely curtail the rights of the States in constituting the search-cum- selection committees for the selection of Vice Chancellors.

The provision relating to appointing non-academics to be appointed as Vice-Chancellors requires to be withdrawn, the states said.

The Draft UGC regulations focus on setting up the minimum qualifications needed for appointing teachers and academic staff in educational institutions offering higher studies. (ANI)

Actor Neha Dhupia penned a heartfelt birthday wish for her husband Angad Bedi.

Through a post on Instagram, Neha expressed her love for Angad, saying she “will be a better listener and be on time everywhere.”

“Happy birthday my love … as your gift to you i promise to be a better listener , be on time everywhere ( infact ready before you) and worry less about things that may never ever happen ok and may b talk lesser , and also let you talk … and step out more … and the last one let you believe that your choice in movies ( the ones we watch ) is better than mine ok and my favourite one … watch more test cricket … for sure!!! Anything else ?? Yes yes and eat slow and run fast not the other way around … and keep the phone aside all day !!! Atleast today … #happybirthday my love … i celebrate you everyday … every Damn day !!!,” Neha captioned the post, adding a string of red heart emojis.

She also shared a few pictures with Angad.

Neha and Angad married in a private ceremony in Gurudwara in May 2018. The couple was blessed with their first daughter Mehr in November of the same year. They welcomed their second child Guriq in October 2021.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Neha is currently seen as a judge on the new season of ‘Roadies’.

Recently, in an interview with ANI, Neha Dhupia, who is back on the show after two years, shared how happy she is to be back with Rannvijay Singha, whom she believes is “one of the best.”

“I don’t think I wanted to be on the journey without him. As they say, even the universe has heard my cry out for the fact that I want to be on the journey with a leader like Rannvijay because he is one of the best we have,” she shared.

Angad, on the other hand, Angad was seen sharing screen space with Abhishek Bachchan in sports drama ‘Ghoomer’. (ANI)

A twin-seater Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft crashed near Shivpuri in Madhya Pradesh, while it was on a routine training sortie on Thursday, according to defence officials.

A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the crash.

Shivpuri SP, Aman Singh Rathore, confirmed the incident and stated that the pilots were safe.

Further details are awaited. (ANI)