US President Donald Trump has invited India to be part of a new international group called the “Board of Peace,” which is aimed at helping Gaza move towards stability after months of conflict. Sources say the invitation was sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of a broader peace plan for the region.

The proposed Board of Peace is meant to oversee what happens in Gaza once fighting stops. Its main role would be to support peace efforts, help with governance, and guide the rebuilding of homes, hospitals, roads and other essential infrastructure. The idea is to ensure that Gaza is rebuilt in a stable and secure way, with support from the international community.

According to sources, the Board of Peace is linked to a larger ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas. This plan reportedly has the backing of the United Nations Security Council. The board would work during the post-war phase, focusing on long-term peace rather than short-term relief alone.

The United States has invited around 60 countries to join this initiative. These include countries from Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. India is seen as an important invitee because of its growing global role, experience in peacekeeping missions, and diplomatic ties across regions.

Under the proposal, countries that contribute large financial support, around $1 billion, could become permanent members of the board. Other countries may be given fixed-term memberships. The funds collected would be used mainly for rebuilding Gaza and supporting its economy.

The Board of Peace is expected to have two parts: a larger group of member countries and a smaller executive committee. The executive committee would be responsible for taking key decisions and implementing plans on the ground.

So far, India has not officially responded to the invitation. The Ministry of External Affairs has not made any public statement on whether India will accept the offer.

Reactions from other countries have been mixed. While some see the plan as a new way to bring stability to Gaza, others have raised questions about how the board will work and how it will fit with existing international efforts.

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Bollywood’s beloved poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar turned 81 on Saturday, and the celebrations were filled with warmth, love, and heartfelt messages from family, fans, and the film fraternity. Among the first to wish him was his wife, veteran actor Shabana Azmi. Sharing a personal note, she prayed for his good health and expressed her hope that he continues to create and inspire, just as he has for decades.

Their marriage, which began in 1984, is often celebrated as one of Bollywood’s most admired partnerships,  built on mutual respect, love, and shared creative passion. Shabana Azmi also shares a close bond with Akhtar’s children from his previous marriage to Honey Irani, filmmaker Zoya Akhtar and actor-director Farhan Akhtar. Zoya posted a touching tribute to her father, calling him “Pa” and thanking him for all the wisdom, guidance, and love he has given her over the years.

Akhtar’s journey in Hindi cinema is legendary. As one half of the iconic Salim-Javed duo, he co-wrote films like Sholay, Deewaar, Zanjeer, Don, and Trishul, giving audiences unforgettable dialogues and stories that became a part of popular culture. His songs, too, have left a lasting mark — from “Sandese Aate Hain” (Border) to “Kal Ho Naa Ho”, “Mitwa” (Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna), “Tere Liye” (Veer-Zaara), and “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha” (1942: A Love Story). Fans are also eagerly awaiting his work on the upcoming Border 2, promising more memorable lyrics from the legendary wordsmith.

Turning 81, Akhtar also shared a humorous note about his simple daily pleasures, including ice cream and sweet tea, reminding fans that despite his fame, he enjoys life’s little joys. His poetry and shayari continue to resonate with fans, particularly those drawn to his reflective and emotionally rich verses.

Also Read: PF withdrawals via UPI from April

Apple has suffered a setback in India after the country’s antitrust authority refused to suspend an investigation into its App Store operations, tightening regulatory pressure on the global technology giant. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has ruled that the probe will continue despite Apple’s request for a pause, signalling a firm stance on enforcing competition law.

The investigation follows complaints from global firms such as Match Group and Indian app developers, who accuse Apple of unfair business practices. Central to the dispute are Apple’s rules that require developers to use its in-app payment system and prevent them from directing users to cheaper payment alternatives. Developers argue this results in higher commissions and reduced flexibility.

A detailed investigation report submitted to the CCI last year concluded that Apple may have abused its dominant position in the iOS app ecosystem. Apple has denied these allegations, stating that its policies protect users from fraud and maintain a secure digital marketplace.

Apple recently approached the regulator seeking to halt the proceedings while the Delhi High Court examines its legal challenge to India’s revised competition law framework. The company has objected to provisions that allow penalties to be calculated on the basis of global turnover, warning that this could lead to extremely large fines unrelated to its India-specific revenues.

The CCI, however, rejected Apple’s plea in a confidential order dated December 31. The regulator pointed out that Apple had repeatedly sought deadline extensions and failed to provide key financial information on time. It said such conduct could not be allowed to delay the conclusion of an important competition case.

The regulator also cautioned that it may draw adverse conclusions or proceed without Apple’s full input if the company does not cooperate. This marks a clear escalation in India’s approach toward Big Tech regulation.

Also Read: India’s first Green Ammonia project in Andhra Pradesh

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is bringing a digital boost for millions of subscribers. Starting April 2026, EPF members will be able to withdraw their provident fund (PF) directly to their bank accounts through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This move aims to make withdrawals faster, reduce paperwork, and simplify the process for the organisation’s eight crore members.

Currently, subscribers must submit withdrawal claims online and wait for manual processing, which can take several days. With the UPI facility, eligible funds will transfer almost instantly once the request is made, using the member’s UPI PIN. EPFO is currently finalizing technical and software preparations to ensure a smooth rollout.

Under this new system, a minimum balance will remain in the PF account to continue earning interest, while the rest can be withdrawn via UPI. Once credited to their bank accounts, members can use the funds for digital payments or cash withdrawals, making the process more seamless and convenient.

This digital initiative builds on previous reforms by EPFO. The organisation had already increased the auto‑settlement limit from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, allowing many claims to be settled electronically within three days. The UPI option goes further by removing the need to even submit a traditional claim for eligible withdrawals.

Additionally, the EPFO has simplified partial withdrawal rules. Earlier, 13 different categories governed PF withdrawals, which often confused subscribers. These have now been consolidated into three broad purposes: Essential Needs (such as illness, education, marriage), Housing Needs, and Special Circumstances. Members can withdraw up to 100% of their eligible balance for these purposes while maintaining the minimum balance required to continue earning interest.

The UPI-enabled facility is part of EPFO’s broader digital push, aiming to provide a modern, frictionless experience for members. By making PF withdrawals quick, secure, and fully digital, the organisation is aligning its services with contemporary banking trends and easing access to retirement savings for millions of Indians.

Also Read: India escalates antitrust action on Apple

Andhra Pradesh is making a landmark stride in clean energy with the launch of India’s first green ammonia facility at Kakinada. The $10‑billion initiative, developed by AM Green, aims to transform India into a global player in green fuel exports. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan flagged off the project, marking the start of construction on the brownfield site near Kakinada Port.

Once completed, the facility will be the world’s largest green ammonia complex, producing 1.5 million tonnes annually. Commissioning is planned in stages: 0.5 million tonnes per year by 2027, increasing to 1 million tonnes in 2028, and reaching full capacity by 2030. The project integrates renewable energy on a massive scale, including 7.5 GW of solar and wind power, 1,950 MW of electrolyser capacity for green hydrogen, and 2 GW of continuous renewable energy supported by pumped hydro storage.

The initiative is expected to generate around 8,000 jobs during construction, with long-term employment opportunities across renewable energy, logistics, port operations, and storage sectors. Beyond job creation, the facility will strengthen India’s position in the global clean fuel market. Green ammonia is emerging as a key fuel for shipping, power generation, and as a green hydrogen carrier.

AM Green has already secured supply agreements with Germany’s utility Uniper and is in talks with partners in Japan and Singapore. The project aligns with Andhra Pradesh’s Integrated Clean Energy Policy, 2024, positioning the state as a hub for renewable energy and green fuel exports. Officials emphasize that this development not only represents a major industrial achievement but also underscores India’s growing role in the global clean energy transition.

Also Read: CBI files case over ₹1,621 cr bank scam

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two FIRs against former branch heads of Punjab & Sind Bank in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, for their alleged involvement in a massive money laundering case. The agency has also named several other individuals and companies in the investigation.

According to the FIRs, the accused opened 17 “mule accounts”—bank accounts created in the names of fake companies—to channel and conceal more than ₹1,621 crore. The CBI alleges that the funds transferred through these accounts came from cybercrime and other illegal activities.

The accounts were reportedly opened in two branches of the bank: 13 at the Government Girls Senior Secondary School branch and four at the main Sri Ganganagar branch. The FIRs state that the officials used forged KYC documents, fake rent agreements, and fabricated verification reports to set up these accounts. Once operational, the accounts were allegedly used to “route, layer, and transfer” illicit money through multiple banking channels, making it difficult to trace.

Those named include Aman Anand, former chief manager of the main branch, and Vikas Wadhwa, head of the school branch, along with a number of companies and individuals who reportedly assisted in preparing false documents. The CBI has accused them of violating banking norms, including due diligence and KYC requirements, which not only facilitated the scam but also caused reputational damage to Punjab & Sind Bank.

A mule account, as explained by investigators, is a bank account opened using fake or stolen identities. Criminals use such accounts to move illegal funds without the account holder’s knowledge. In this case, the alleged misuse highlights how systemic loopholes in banking procedures can be exploited.

The CBI investigation is ongoing, and the agency is gathering evidence to determine the full extent of the scam.

Also Read: Trump threatens tariffs over Greenland plan

Goa police arrested Aleksei Leonov after two Russian women were found murdered in Morjim and Arambol. Both victims, including his live-in partner, had their throats slit. Authorities are investigating the motive and collecting evidence.

Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) faced a tough start to the day as dense fog, a cold wave, and rising air pollution caused widespread disruption. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the minimum temperature in the city dropped to around 4–5°C, lower than usual for this time of year.

Visibility dropped significantly due to thick fog, especially around Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Flights were delayed, and passengers were advised to check schedules before heading to the airport. Roads across Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram were affected as vehicles moved slowly through foggy conditions. Traffic police urged drivers to use fog lights and maintain safe distances.

Air pollution reached dangerous levels, with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 412, placing it in the ‘severe’ category. Areas such as Anand Vihar and ITO experienced particularly high pollution, increasing health risks for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory issues.

To tackle pollution, authorities enforced Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Non-essential construction and demolition work was stopped, and older petrol and diesel vehicles were restricted, except for essential services.

The IMD forecast indicates that cold and dry conditions may continue for the next few days, with fog likely in early mornings. Residents were advised to stay warm, limit outdoor activity, and allow extra time for travel due to weather-related disruptions.

Also Read: PM Modi launches rail projects in Bengal, Assam

President Donald Trump has warned he may impose tariffs on countries that do not support his plan to bring Greenland under American control, intensifying tensions over the strategic Arctic territory. Speaking on January 16 during a White House event on rural healthcare, Trump said the country “needs Greenland for national security” and hinted at economic consequences for nations that “don’t go along” with the plan.

Greenland, a semiautonomous territory of Denmark, has firmly rejected the proposal. Danish and Greenlandic leaders, along with European governments, insist that Greenland’s future must be decided by its people, in line with international law. Trump’s tariff threat marks the first time he has suggested economic sanctions against allies over this issue.

A bipartisan delegation of lawmakers is in Copenhagen to reassure Denmark and Greenland that Congress opposes any forced acquisition. They met Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenland’s leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen to ease tensions. Some legislators are considering measures to block any attempt to seize Greenland without consent.

European reactions have been sharply critical. NATO members have deployed forces to Greenland at Denmark’s request as a precaution. Senior European officials warn that coercive actions could damage long-standing alliances. Concerns are also rising over Russia and China’s growing Arctic presence, which Trump cites to justify increased influence in the region.

Greenland’s government remains committed to staying within Denmark’s realm and aligned with NATO and the European Union, rejecting any transfer of control to the United States. Trump’s tariff remarks introduce an economic angle to a debate that has been largely political and strategic, raising questions about trade and alliance solidarity.

Also Read: PM Modi launches rail projects in Bengal, Assam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Assam and West Bengal, during which he launched and laid the foundation for a series of major rail and infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and accelerating regional development in eastern and northeastern India.

A key highlight of the visit was the launch of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, flagged off from Malda in West Bengal. The long-distance, fully air-conditioned sleeper service will run between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya), offering faster travel and modern amenities for passengers on one of the busiest routes linking eastern India with the Northeast. The train is expected to significantly cut travel time while improving comfort for overnight journeys.

The Prime Minister also flagged off four Amrit Bharat Express trains that will connect North Bengal with major cities across the country. These services link New Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar with destinations such as Bengaluru, Mumbai (Panvel), Tiruchirappalli and Nagercoil, strengthening long-distance rail connectivity for workers, students and business travellers.

In addition, two long-haul express trains equipped with modern LHB coaches, the Radhikapur–SMVT Bengaluru Express and the Balurghat–SMVT Bengaluru Express,  were inaugurated to enhance safety and passenger comfort.

Beyond train services, Modi laid the foundation stones and dedicated several rail and road infrastructure projects in North Bengal, with investments running into thousands of crores. These include a new Balurghat–Hili rail line, expansion of the Siliguri loco shed, and upgraded freight and maintenance facilities at New Jalpaiguri to support Vande Bharat operations. Key railway sections between New Coochbehar–Bamanhat and New Coochbehar–Boxirhat were also electrified, enabling cleaner and more efficient train movement.

On the road sector front, the Prime Minister laid the foundation for the four-laning and strengthening of the Dhupguri–Falakata stretch of National Highway-31D, a crucial corridor for trade and passenger traffic in North Bengal.

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