Category: NATIONAL

Washington, D.C., February 21, 2026:
In a significant shift in U.S. trade policy, the United States has temporarily reduced import tariffs for key partners, including the India, following a recent court ruling that questioned the executive branch’s authority over certain trade decisions. The White House announced that India will now face only a 10% tariff—a substantial reduction aimed at ensuring compliance with the ruling while the administration reassesses its broader tariff framework. Officials stated that the move is provisional but essential to maintain stability in global commerce and avoid immediate trade disruptions.

This temporary adjustment is expected to benefit several sectors dependent on Indian imports, especially steel, aluminum, and manufactured goods. However, U.S. authorities emphasized that the revision does not indicate a permanent policy change; instead, it reflects a measured response as legal teams work to clarify the boundaries of trade authority between the executive branch and judicial oversight. India is closely monitoring the development, viewing the decision as a positive step toward easing trade frictions and enhancing bilateral economic engagement.

New Delhi, February 19, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, highlighting that India is not just participating in the global AI revolution but leading it. He emphasized the nation’s strong digital infrastructure, skilled talent base, and commitment to a human-centric approach in technological development. Modi noted that India’s AI progress is aligned with the vision of driving innovation that benefits society at large, promoting both economic growth and public welfare.

The summit, held from 16–20 February 2026, brought together hundreds of global AI experts, tech leaders, and policymakers to deliberate on responsible, ethical, and inclusive AI frameworks. During the event, the Prime Minister unveiled the ‘MANAV Vision’, a roadmap focused on ethical governance, transparency, accountability, and accessibility in artificial intelligence. The gathering is viewed as a major milestone in shaping international cooperation and establishing shared norms for the future of AI.

Chennai, Tamil Nadu — January 24, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday kicked off the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) campaign for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, launching a sharp political attack on the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) at a massive rally in Maduranthakam, near Chennai. Addressing party workers and supporters, Modi said the people of Tamil Nadu were ready for a “double-engine” government that could ensure development, good governance and public safety. He accused the DMK of indulging in corruption, encouraging mafia and criminal activities, and promoting dynasty politics, alleging that the state government had failed to fulfil its promises and was working for the benefit of a single family rather than the wider public. Modi asserted that the “countdown” for the DMK’s exit had begun and said a strong, united NDA was the preferred option for voters seeking change.

Highlighting the Centre’s role in Tamil Nadu’s development, Modi said substantial central assistance and funds had been extended to the state over the past decade, supporting major infrastructure projects and welfare schemes for farmers, fishermen and the poor. He argued that closer coordination between the state and the Centre under an NDA government would further accelerate growth and improve governance. The rally also witnessed senior NDA allies, including AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami and leaders of allied parties, projecting unity ahead of the elections. Meanwhile, DMK leaders hit back at Modi’s remarks, dismissing his allegations as exaggerated and maintaining that several central projects had faced delays or lacked effective implementation.

Vijayawada, January 20:
In response to the increased movement of pilgrims, temple administrations across Andhra Pradesh stepped up crowd management and security measures to ensure the safety and convenience of devotees. Additional police personnel, temple volunteers and administrative staff were deployed at key temples to regulate queues and manage peak-hour rush. CCTV surveillance was closely monitored, while entry and exit routes were clearly demarcated to prevent congestion within temple premises. Medical teams, ambulances and emergency response units were kept on standby as a precautionary measure. Authorities also issued advisories urging devotees to adhere to temple guidelines, cooperate with staff, and avoid carrying prohibited items. Officials said these measures were aimed at maintaining a peaceful atmosphere and ensuring that devotees could have a spiritually fulfilling experience while safeguarding public safety across religious centres in the state.

Amaravati, January 20:
A large number of devotees gathered at major Hindu temples across Andhra Pradesh on Monday to offer special prayers and participate in daily religious rituals, reflecting continued faith and devotion among worshippers. Prominent shrines such as Tirumala, Srikalahasti, Simhachalam and Kanaka Durga temples witnessed steady footfall from the early hours of the day, with pilgrims arriving from different districts of the state as well as neighbouring regions. At Tirumala, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) implemented strict time-slot darshan arrangements and maintained an orderly queue system to ensure smooth movement of devotees. Priests conducted traditional abhishekams, archana and Vedic chanting, while devotees offered coconuts, flowers and special offerings, praying for peace, health and prosperity. Temple authorities stated that despite the heavy rush, darshan proceeded smoothly without major disruptions, owing to coordinated efforts by temple staff and security personnel.

Ayodhya, January 20:
Ayodhya is witnessing an unprecedented surge in pilgrim footfall as millions of devotees from different parts of the country arrive to seek blessings at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The steady inflow of worshippers has transformed the holy city into a hub of spiritual activity, with chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ echoing through temple corridors and surrounding areas. To manage the massive crowds, the district administration has deployed additional police forces, introduced time-slot based darshan, and enhanced surveillance using CCTV cameras and drones. Special facilities, including medical camps, drinking water stations, and resting zones, have been arranged to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims. Officials said coordination between temple authorities and local administration has been strengthened to maintain order and allow devotees a peaceful and fulfilling darshan experience.

Thiruvananthapuram, January 20:
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday carried out coordinated raids across multiple states as part of its ongoing investigation into the Sabarimala temple gold theft case. Officials said the raids targeted key locations linked to suspects and were aimed at collecting crucial evidence related to the alleged smuggling and misappropriation of temple valuables.

The ED stated that the operation is part of a broader effort to trace the stolen assets, identify accomplices, and examine the financial transactions associated with the case. Investigators confirmed that several individuals connected to the incident are being questioned, and the agency will continue to monitor movements of suspected entities while coordinating with local law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough inquiry.

Amaravati, January 20:
The Andhra Pradesh government has asserted its claim over land worth nearly ₹4,000 crore in Kondapur, stating that Telangana has no legal right over the disputed property. Officials said the claim is based on documentary evidence and historical ownership records.

The state government indicated that the matter would be pursued through appropriate legal channels to protect Andhra Pradesh’s interests. The dispute is expected to be taken up in court as part of the ongoing inter-state issues between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.