Delhi Police have issued a notice to Penguin Random House India in connection with the alleged leak of former Army Chief General M.M. Naravane’s unpublished memoir, ‘Four Stars of Destiny’. The action follows the registration of an FIR after portions of the book reportedly surfaced online without official clearance.

According to officials, the case was filed after a pre-publication version of the memoir was allegedly circulated in digital format. Investigators are now examining how the manuscript was accessed and shared, and whether any laws related to criminal conspiracy or copyright violation were breached. The Special Cell of Delhi Police is handling the probe.

The controversy has also drawn attention because the book had not yet received formal clearance from the Ministry of Defence, a requirement for publications by former senior military officials that may contain sensitive material. Authorities are looking into whether established protocols were followed before excerpts appeared in the public domain.

Penguin Random House India has stated that it holds the exclusive rights to publish the memoir but has not released, distributed, or sold the book in any format. The publisher clarified that any version currently in circulation is unauthorised and amounts to copyright infringement. It added that it is prepared to take appropriate legal steps against those responsible for the leak.

General Naravane responded to the row by sharing the publisher’s statement publicly, noting that this reflects the current status of the book. His response underlined that the memoir has not been officially published.

The issue briefly became a political flashpoint after excerpts from the unpublished manuscript were referred to during proceedings in Parliament, triggering objections and procedural disruptions.

As the investigation continues, police are working to trace the origin of the leaked document and determine accountability. No arrests have been reported so far.

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The United States has revised its official factsheet on the proposed interim trade agreement with India, removing references to certain pulses and softening language on investment and tax commitments after concerns were raised by New Delhi.

The original factsheet, released by the White House earlier this week, stated that India would reduce or eliminate tariffs on a range of American agricultural products. Among the items mentioned were tree nuts, fruits, soybean oil, wine, spirits and “certain pulses.” Pulses such as lentils and chickpeas are a sensitive commodity in India, which is both the world’s largest producer and consumer. Their inclusion had sparked attention, given the political and economic importance of protecting Indian farmers.

In the revised version, the specific mention of pulses has been removed. The document now broadly refers to improved access for “a wide range of U.S. agricultural products,” without naming individual items.

Another significant change relates to India’s projected purchases from the United States. The earlier draft said India was “committed” to buying more than $500 billion worth of American goods over five years, including energy, coal and technology products. The updated factsheet replaces the word “committed” with “intends,” indicating a softer, non-binding formulation. References to agricultural purchases in this context have also been dropped.

The language around digital trade has been modified as well. While the initial document suggested India would remove its digital services tax, the revised text now states that both sides will negotiate digital trade rules, aligning more closely with previously issued joint statements.

Officials indicated that the revisions were made to better reflect the mutually agreed terms of the interim framework.

Also Read: Uttar Pradesh charts $1 trillion growth path

Uttar Pradesh presented its first-ever Economic Survey, aiming to become a $1 trillion economy in the coming years. The state’s GSDP grew from ₹13.3 lakh crore in 2016‑17 to ₹30.25 lakh crore in 2024‑25, and is projected to reach ₹36 lakh crore in 2025‑26.

The 2025‑26 budget rose to ₹8.33 lakh crore, with a record ₹46,728 crore for health, strengthening medical services and reducing out-of-pocket costs. Fiscal discipline is reflected in a public debt-to-GSDP ratio of 28 %, below the national average.

Social indicators are improving: per capita income reached ₹1.09 lakh, institutional deliveries rose, and universal child immunisation was achieved. Agriculture output grew 28.5 %, making UP a key contributor to India’s foodgrain production.

Infrastructure and investment remain priorities, with plans for 22 expressways, 24 airports including Jewar, expanding rail networks, and over ₹50 lakh crore in investment proposals. Industrial activity is rising, with more than 30,000 registered factories.

The survey emphasizes a “Triple S” strategy namely, Safety, Stability, and Speed,  to enhance law enforcement, policy clarity, and business approvals, creating a conducive environment for growth.

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Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has filed a civil and criminal defamation suit seeking ₹500 crore against senior Congress leaders Gaurav Gogoi, Bhupesh Baghel, and Jitendra Singh. The case was lodged on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, following allegations made by the leaders during a press conference on February 4, which Sarma described as “false, malicious and politically motivated.”

The Congress leaders had publicly claimed that Sarma and his family were involved in occupying large tracts of land across Assam, a charge the Chief Minister has strongly denied, calling it baseless and damaging to his reputation. The ₹500 crore sought represents the damages Sarma is claiming in civil court, while criminal defamation proceedings have also been initiated.

The Congress party has not yet issued an official response to the filing. Analysts note that this legal move comes amid rising political tensions in Assam, with both parties exchanging serious accusations in recent weeks ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

In addition to the defamation claim, Sarma has publicly cited findings from a Special Investigation Team (SIT) alleging possible violations of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) by Gaurav Gogoi and his British wife. He also highlighted alleged connections with a Pakistani national, accusations Gogoi has denied.

Gaurav Gogoi, meanwhile, has accused Sarma of using personal attacks and controversial videos to deflect criticism, saying such actions are inappropriate and inflammatory. The exchange of allegations underscores the intense political rivalry between the BJP-led state government and the Congress ahead of elections.

The defamation suit is considered both a legal and political strategy, signaling Sarma’s intent to protect his personal and political reputation while putting Congress leaders on the defensive. Experts note that high-value defamation cases like this are rare in India, but they have increasingly become tools for politicians to contest allegations in the public arena.

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Britain’s Labour Party is in turmoil as questions mount over Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership following controversy linked to Peter Mandelson and his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In this climate of uncertainty, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is emerging as a potential candidate to succeed him.

Starmer has faced increasing pressure after resignations from his chief of staff and communications director, along with public calls to step down from party leaders, including Scottish Labour chief Anas Sarwar. With elections approaching, the party is under pressure to restore public trust.

Mahmood, 45, has served as MP for Birmingham Ladywood since 2010 and has held prominent roles in Labour’s shadow cabinet. She became Home Secretary in 2025, overseeing policing, immigration, and national security. Her policies on tightening immigration rules and extending residency requirements have been controversial but reflect her focus on public concerns about illegal migration.

If she becomes prime minister, Mahmood would be Britain’s first Muslim and first prime minister of Pakistani descent, marking a historic moment for the UK. Analysts describe her as disciplined and widely respected within Labour, appealing to multiple factions, though she faces competition from other senior figures like Angela Rayner and Wes Streeting.

Bookmakers view her as a dark‑horse contender, but her unique background, policy record, and steady rise in party ranks make her a notable possibility amid Starmer’s embattled leadership.

Labour now faces a critical period as it navigates the reputational damage from the Mandelson‑Epstein controversy. Starmer has vowed to remain in office, insisting he will lead the party through the crisis, but speculation over his future continues to fuel debate within the party and in public discourse.

Also Read: Anthropic AI safety expert quits, warns world

The Advanced Imaging Society (AIS) recently hosted the 16th annual Lumiere Awards at the Beverly Hills Hotel, celebrating films, TV shows, and creators who blend storytelling with cutting-edge technology. The event shines a spotlight on the people and projects that make entertainment truly memorable.

Warner Bros.’ “Sinners” won Best Feature Film,  Live Action and Best Audio , Theatrical, praised for its gripping story and immersive sound. The animated hit “Zootopia 2” was named Best Feature Film – Animation, while “Wicked: For Good” took Best Motion Picture, Musical, enchanting audiences with its vibrant performances. Documentary fans enjoyed “The King of Color”, which won Best Documentary, exploring the creation of the Pantone Colour System.

Television also made waves. “Andor” Season 2 won Best Episodic, Live Action, and “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” claimed Best Episodic – Animation. Apple TV’s “Severance” was recognised for its exceptional audio, while “Stranger Things” Season 5 impressed with its high dynamic range visuals. On the feature side, “F1” earned praise for HDR innovation, and “Avatar: Fire and Ash” dazzled in the Best Theatrical Scene or Sequence category.

Industry icons were also celebrated. Ethan Hawke received the Distinguished Artist Award, Jon M. Chu earned the first Judy Garland Legacy Award, and Joseph Kosinski and Jerry Bruckheimer shared the Harold Lloyd Award for groundbreaking work.

Tech achievements were honoured too. Google received the Sir Charles Wheatstone Award, and companies including AMD, DisneyResearch|Studios, Flawless, 6P Color, and CoreWeave were recognised for innovations shaping the future of visual storytelling. VUE earned the Governor’s Award for Cinema Excellence.

This year’s Lumiere Awards highlighted how creativity and technology come together to make movies and shows more immersive than ever. From breathtaking visuals to unforgettable performances, the winners remind us that behind every captivating story is a blend of artistry and innovation that brings magic to our screens.

Also Read: Sairang–Silchar rail link opens in Mizoram

Mizoram’s new Sairang–Silchar rail link began operations, improving connectivity with Assam. CM Lalduhoma called it the state’s economic gateway, boosting trade, market access, and growth under the Act East Policy.

The United States has reduced import tariffs on Bangladeshi goods to 19 per cent under a new bilateral trade agreement, giving a boost to Bangladesh’s export-driven economy. The deal follows months of negotiations and marks a further easing of trade terms after the US earlier lowered tariffs from higher levels imposed in recent years.

Under the agreement, most Bangladeshi exports to the US will now face a flat 19 per cent tariff. A key highlight of the pact is zero-duty access for certain ready-made garments and textile products that are manufactured using US cotton or man-made fibres. This provision is expected to directly benefit Bangladesh’s garment sector, which is the backbone of the country’s economy and employs millions of workers.

Bangladesh’s interim leadership described the agreement as a significant step forward in economic relations with the United States. Officials said the deal creates new opportunities for exporters at a time when global trade conditions remain challenging and competition from other low-cost manufacturing nations is intensifying.

In return, Bangladesh has agreed to provide greater market access to US products, including agricultural goods, machinery, medical equipment and other industrial items. The agreement also includes commitments to address non-tariff barriers and improve regulatory cooperation, making it easier for US companies to do business in Bangladesh.

While the tariff cut may appear modest, the duty-free access for qualifying apparel exports could significantly improve Bangladesh’s competitiveness in the US market. The deal is also seen as a signal of deeper economic engagement between the two countries, with discussions likely to expand into sectors such as energy, aviation and technology.

Also Read: India–Pakistan match confirmed for T20 World Cup

Mrinank Sharma, who led AI safety research at artificial intelligence firm Anthropic, has stepped down from his role, warning that the world is becoming increasingly fragile as technology grows more powerful and complex.

In a public resignation message, Sharma said humanity is living through a period of overlapping global crises, and advanced AI systems could worsen these problems if they are not guided by strong ethical frameworks. He stressed that intelligence and capability alone are not enough — wisdom and values must grow at the same pace.

At Anthropic, Sharma worked on building safeguards into large language models, focusing on preventing misuse and unintended harm. His research examined risks ranging from AI-assisted biological threats to the subtle ways in which machines can influence human thinking and decision-making.

However, Sharma acknowledged that translating ethical ideals into daily practice within fast-moving technology companies is deeply challenging. Commercial pressure, competition, and rapid innovation often leave little room for reflection, he said, even when safety is a stated priority.

Rather than moving to another AI company, Sharma has chosen a very different path. He said he plans to devote his time to poetry and reflective writing, believing that creative expression offers a better way to engage with moral questions and the human consequences of technology.

His decision has resonated across the global tech community, especially among researchers who worry that AI development is accelerating faster than regulation, public understanding, and cultural readiness. Sharma’s warning echoes broader concerns about whether current safety efforts are sufficient as AI systems become more autonomous and influential.

The resignation comes at a time when AI companies are under growing scrutiny from governments, civil society, and their own employees.

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Pakistan will play against arch-rivals India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially confirmed, putting to rest speculation surrounding one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.

According to the ICC, the India vs Pakistan match will take place on February 15 in Colombo, as per the confirmed tournament schedule. The global cricket body said Pakistan will participate in all its scheduled matches in the World Cup, including the high-profile encounter against India.

The confirmation comes after questions were raised about Pakistan’s participation in the India fixture, leading to uncertainty around the future of the match. The ICC said it held discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to ensure clarity and reaffirmed that all teams are expected to honour their commitments under tournament regulations.

“The Pakistan men’s team will play all matches allocated to them in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including the fixture against India,” the ICC said in a statement.

The India–Pakistan clash is considered one of the biggest draws in world cricket, attracting massive global viewership and commercial interest. Its inclusion is seen as crucial to the tournament’s competitive and commercial success.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, with matches scheduled across multiple venues. Colombo will host several key games, including the India–Pakistan encounter.

Pakistan have already begun their campaign in the tournament and will continue to play their group matches as scheduled. The ICC did not indicate any changes to the group structure or match venues following the confirmation.

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