The United States has proposed that India consider importing crude oil from Venezuela as New Delhi gradually reduces its dependence on Russian oil, according to sources aware of the discussions. The move comes at a time when India is recalibrating its energy strategy amid global geopolitical shifts and growing trade pressures from Washington.

India emerged as one of the largest buyers of Russian crude after the Ukraine conflict began in 2022, taking advantage of discounted prices. At its peak, India was importing around 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian oil. However, this volume is now declining. Imports are estimated to fall to about 1 million bpd in February and further to nearly 800,000 bpd by March 2026. Officials indicate that Russian supplies could eventually drop to nearly half of earlier levels.

The US outreach is closely linked to trade and tariff issues. In 2025, Washington imposed a 25% tariff on countries purchasing Venezuelan oil, a measure that also affected India. In addition, the overall tariff burden on Indian exports to the US has increased, with Russian oil imports cited as one of the contributing factors. By encouraging India to shift toward Venezuelan crude, the US is seeking to realign energy flows while easing trade frictions.

Washington’s stance on Venezuela has also evolved. Following political developments in Caracas earlier this year, the US indicated that countries like India could re-engage with Venezuelan oil supplies. The proposal is also seen as part of a broader U.S. effort to curb Russia’s oil revenues, which it says help fund Moscow’s military actions.

It remains unclear whether Venezuelan oil would be supplied directly by state-run PDVSA or routed through global trading firms. Meanwhile, Indian refiners have already begun widening their sourcing base. As Russian imports decline, India has stepped up purchases from the Middle East, Africa and parts of South America. Recent data show Russian oil shipments to India touching a two-year low, while the share of OPEC crude in India’s import mix has risen to its highest level in nearly a year.

India’s petroleum ministry has reiterated that the country’s priority is energy security through diversification. While no formal decision has been announced on Venezuelan crude, the US pitch highlights how energy, trade and geopolitics are becoming increasingly intertwined as India reshapes its oil procurement strategy.

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What began as another tense day under official scrutiny ended in tragedy for CJ Roy, 57, the founder and chairman of the Confident Group. On Thursday afternoon, Roy died by suicide at his Bengaluru office, just hours after Income-Tax officials carried out searches at premises linked to his company.

According to police, Roy was being questioned as part of a multi-day tax investigation when he asked for a brief break, saying he wanted to speak to his family. He then walked into an adjoining room inside his office and shot himself with his licensed firearm. Staff members and officials rushed in after hearing the gunshot and shifted him to a hospital, but doctors declared him dead on arrival.

By evening, the news had sent shockwaves through Bengaluru’s business community and beyond. Roy was not just a prominent real estate developer with projects across Karnataka and Kerala, but also a familiar name in the entertainment industry, known for backing films and television shows.

On Friday morning, Roy’s wife and son arrived in Bengaluru and were seen at Bowring Hospital mortuary, where his body is currently kept. A post-mortem examination is being conducted as part of the legal process, after which the family is expected to take his body for last rites. Friends and associates say the family is in deep shock, struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss.

In emotional statements, family members have alleged that relentless pressure during the tax raids pushed Roy to the brink. They claim he was under extreme mental stress due to prolonged questioning and uncertainty around the investigation. These allegations have intensified public debate around enforcement practices and the psychological toll of corporate investigations.

Police have registered a case at Ashok Nagar police station and say all aspects of the incident are being examined. CCTV footage from the office, the firearm used, and statements from witnesses are part of the ongoing investigation. While the death is being treated as a case of suicide at present, officials say further findings will determine if any additional angles need to be explored.

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Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sunetra Pawar was at the centre of political attention on Friday as the party held crucial meetings in Mumbai to discuss its future leadership and role in the Maharashtra government.

The meeting, held at the residence of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, was attended by several senior leaders of the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction. Party sources said the discussions focused on organisational matters, leadership continuity and coordination within the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

Sunetra Pawar’s presence at the meeting has added momentum to speculation about her taking on a larger political role. Leaders, however, stressed that no official announcement has been made yet and that decisions will follow established party processes.

According to party insiders, the NCP legislature party is expected to meet shortly to formally elect its leader. This step is considered necessary before the party communicates its decision to the Chief Minister and the Governor. If appointed, Sunetra Pawar would become the first woman to hold the post of Deputy Chief Minister in Maharashtra.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the ruling alliance would respect the NCP’s internal decision. He added that the government would act only after receiving a formal proposal from the party. Alliance partners have indicated support for the NCP’s choice to ensure stability in the government.

Sunetra Pawar is currently a Rajya Sabha member and has been associated with the party’s organisational work for several years. Senior leaders said her appointment would help maintain continuity and unity within the party at a sensitive time.

NCP leaders including Chhagan Bhujbal, Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare were among those involved in consultations. They said the party’s priority is to ensure smooth governance and avoid political uncertainty.

The developments come at a crucial moment for the NCP, as it balances internal leadership decisions with coalition responsibilities. Further meetings are expected before the party makes a formal announcement.

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Samsung India has set two Guinness World Records with its India #WithGalaxy photography campaign, which invited people across the country to capture and share real-life moments using Galaxy S smartphones. The campaign, which ran from 30 December 2025 to 26 January 2026, received 31,331 photo submissions, making it one of the largest smartphone photography contests ever recorded.

The records recognized were for the largest smartphone photography contest in terms of participant numbers, and for the most contributions to an online photo mosaic, where all submissions were combined digitally into a giant artwork showcasing India’s cultural and regional diversity.

Raju Pullan, Senior Vice President of MX Business at Samsung India, said the campaign successfully brought people together through storytelling, while highlighting the creative capabilities of Galaxy S devices. The achievement was officially validated at a ceremony attended by Samsung India executives and a Guinness World Records adjudicator.

The initiative was supported by acclaimed filmmaker Kabir Khan and over 30 regional photographers, who helped participants bring out unique local narratives. Photos were shared under four themes that captured different aspects of Indian life and culture. The “Faces of India” theme featured portraits reflecting the country’s people, while “Sights of India” showcased landscapes, monuments, and scenic beauty from across regions. “Spirit of India” highlighted daily life moments demonstrating resilience, pride, and unity, and “Colours of India” celebrated the vibrancy of festivals, traditions, and cultural expressions.

By enabling citizens from across the nation to participate, Samsung demonstrated the power of technology to connect communities while celebrating India’s rich cultural tapestry. The final photo mosaic now stands as a collective visual tribute to India’s diversity and the creativity of its people, marking a significant milestone in mobile-led storytelling.

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A newly released set of documents linked to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein has drawn attention after the name of renowned filmmaker Mira Nair appeared in one of the files. Mira Nair is the mother of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and an internationally known director best known for films such as Monsoon Wedding and The Namesake.

The reference comes from a 2009 email included in records made public by the US. Department of Justice as part of a large disclosure of material related to Epstein and his associates. The email was sent by Hollywood publicist Peggy Siegal and describes leaving an afterparty held at the Manhattan townhouse of Ghislaine Maxwell, a close associate of Epstein who was later convicted on sex-trafficking charges.

According to the email, the gathering took place after the premiere of the film Amelia, which was directed by Mira Nair. The message lists several well-known names who were said to be present at the event, including former US President Bill Clinton, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, and “director Mira Nair,” among others. The email also includes casual remarks about the audience response to the film, calling the reaction mixed.

Officials and legal experts have stressed that being named in these documents does not mean involvement in any crime. The files largely contain emails, contact lists and references that reflect social or professional interactions rather than evidence of illegal activity. Many public figures appear in the documents simply because they crossed paths with Epstein or people in his wider social circle.

The latest release is part of a broader effort to make public millions of pages of federal records connected to the Epstein case, following years of public demand for transparency. Authorities say the documents were reviewed and redacted where necessary to protect victims and sensitive information.

So far, Mira Nair has not commented on the mention, and there has been no response from Mayor Zohran Mamdani either.

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Delhi, long known for its harsh winter smog, has recorded its second-best air quality for January since 2022, offering a rare moment of relief for its residents. The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) reported that the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) this month was 307, slightly higher than January 2025’s 306, which remains the cleanest January in recent years. While this represents an improvement compared with earlier winters, air quality continues to pose significant health risks.

Throughout the month, Delhi experienced a mix of air conditions. There were a few days when the air was moderate and relatively safe for outdoor activities, but for much of January, the city remained enveloped in poor to very poor air, affecting both sensitive groups and the general population. On a couple of days, pollution reached severe levels, a category considered dangerous even for healthy adults. Experts point out that winter weather conditions, such as low wind speeds and cooler temperatures, trap pollutants close to the ground, making it difficult for the city to shake off its smog. CREA also noted that the final day of January was expected to see very poor air quality again, underlining that the battle against pollution is far from over.

For Delhiites, the news is both encouraging and cautionary. The city’s air is slightly cleaner than in previous years, but residents are still advised to monitor AQI levels, wear masks on polluted days, and limit outdoor exposure, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. The report highlights that while small improvements offer hope, sustained action through stricter pollution control measures, greener transport options, and lifestyle changes will be crucial if Delhi is to enjoy truly breathable winters. For now, the city can take some comfort in knowing that the skies are marginally clearer, even if only for a short while.

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Bengaluru Lokayukta police caught Inspector Govindaraju of KP Agrahara police station accepting a ₹4 lakh bribe from a builder seeking removal from a cheating case. Authorities registered a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act, and investigations are ongoing.

A joint NASA‑ISRO satellite has given the world a fresh look at the Mississippi River Delta, capturing rivers, forests, cities, and farmland even under thick clouds. The image, taken on November 29, 2025, by the NISAR (NASA‑ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) mission, showcases the satellite’s unique ability to “see” through weather that would block regular cameras.

Unlike traditional imaging, NISAR uses radar waves to map the land, making every detail, from dense forests to urban streets, visible regardless of rain or clouds. Color coding in the radar image distinguishes forests, buildings, and farmland, showing how each reflects radar signals differently.

Landmarks like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lake Pontchartrain are clearly visible, along with the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the world’s longest continuous bridge over water. Agricultural fields, wetlands, and urban areas appear in vibrant colors, painting a living portrait of the delta.

Since its launch from India on July 30, 2025, NISAR has been observing Earth every 12 days. Its data promise benefits beyond stunning imagery, helping scientists monitor ecosystems, crops, infrastructure, and respond to natural disasters.

The mission team plans to release thousands of NISAR data products for public access by late February, allowing researchers worldwide to explore this cloud‑piercing technology and its potential for understanding our changing planet.

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A glimmer of hope has emerged for hundreds of Venezuelans behind bars for political reasons. On January 30, acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced a new amnesty bill that could lead to the release of people jailed for opposing the government over the past decades. The move aims to heal old wounds and offer a fresh start to a country long divided by politics.

Speaking before the Supreme Court, Rodríguez described the amnesty as a chance to “restore justice and peaceful coexistence” among Venezuelans. She urged the ruling-party National Assembly to fast-track the bill, calling it a step toward reconciliation after years of political tension. The announcement was met with emotional reactions outside prisons, where relatives of detainees gathered, waiting for news of their loved ones.

The proposed amnesty could apply to cases dating back to 1999, covering periods under both Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro. Those convicted of serious crimes like murder, corruption, drug trafficking, or severe human rights abuses would not benefit. Rights groups estimate that around 700 people are currently held for political reasons, including former lawmakers, lawyers, and activists who were detained following the controversial 2024 elections.

While the announcement has been welcomed by many, concerns remain. Human rights organisations caution that the amnesty must be transparent and fair, rather than a way for the powerful to escape accountability. Many families, who have endured years of uncertainty, are cautiously hopeful but want to see concrete action rather than promises.

In a symbolic gesture, Rodríguez also revealed plans to repurpose El Helicoide, a notorious Caracas prison known for abuse, into a community centre for sports and culture, signaling an effort to move beyond past injustices.

The international community is watching closely. The United States confirmed that all known American prisoners have been released and plans to restore diplomatic presence in Caracas. Opposition leaders, while supportive of releasing prisoners, warn that the government must follow through with real reform and ensure that justice and democracy are strengthened, not sidelined.

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In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a devastating mine collapse at the Rubaya coltan mine has claimed the lives of more than 200 people, leaving families and communities in shock. The tragedy unfolded on Wednesday as heavy seasonal rains caused the fragile earth to give way, burying miners, children, and women under tons of mud and debris.

The Rubaya mine, located about 60 kilometres from the provincial capital Goma in North Kivu, is a major source of coltan, a mineral used in mobile phones, computers, and other electronics worldwide. Most workers here dig by hand under extremely unsafe conditions, often risking their lives daily for a meagre income.

Lumumba Kambere Muyisa, spokesperson for the rebel-appointed provincial governor, said, “More than 200 people were victims of this landslide, including miners, children and market women.” Rescue teams are working to reach those still trapped, but the unstable ground makes efforts dangerous and slow. Local hospitals are treating survivors, many with serious injuries.

The exact death toll remains uncertain, with some officials estimating at least 227 lives lost. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and despair as families desperately searched for missing loved ones.

Rubaya is under the control of the M23 rebel group, which has held the area since 2024. The group levies taxes on mineral trade, including coltan, which makes up an estimated 15% of the world’s supply. Despite this wealth, the local population lives in extreme poverty, with little access to safety measures or infrastructure.

This disaster highlights the dangers faced by informal miners in eastern DRC, where armed conflicts, unregulated mining, and poor safety standards make tragedies like this all too common. Communities here mourn their losses, while humanitarian agencies urge immediate support and stronger safety oversight.

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