In the Democratic Republic of Congo's Équateur Province, a suspected malaria outbreak has resulted in 52 deaths and 943 reported illnesses. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, vomiting, and weight loss. Initial tests have ruled out Ebola and Marburg viruses. The World Health Organization is enhancing surveillance and collaborating with local health authorities to conduct further investigations. Some cases are believed to be linked to food poisoning. The outbreak was first identified on January 21, 2025, after children consumed a bat carcass, leading to concerns about potential zoonotic transmission. Efforts are underway to confirm the exact cause and prevent further spread. 

The Indian cricket team has received a big boost ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal as bowling coach Morne Morkel has rejoined the squad. Morkel had briefly left due to a personal emergency in South Africa but is now back in Dubai to assist the team. His return is expected to strengthen India’s bowling preparations and boost player confidence for the crucial knockout match. With India performing well in the tournament, Morkel’s presence adds to their momentum as they aim for the championship title.  

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with US President Donald Trump at the White House, emphasizing Britain’s commitment to defense. "We are putting Britain on a war footing," Starmer declared, announcing increased military spending by reallocating foreign aid funds. Trump, while expressing confidence in a peace deal for Ukraine, insisted that "Europe must take the lead" in security guarantees. The leaders also discussed a UK-US trade deal, focusing on finance and technology. Trump accepted an unprecedented second state visit invitation from King Charles, signaling strengthened US-UK relations.

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were found dead at their Santa Fe home under suspicious circumstances. A maintenance worker discovered their bodies alongside one of their dogs. Although no signs of foul play, gas leaks, or carbon monoxide poisoning were found, the situation prompted an investigation. Hackman, 95, appeared to have fallen, while Arakawa, 65, was found near prescription pills. Hackman’s career spanned six decades, with iconic roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven. The couple lived in Santa Fe for decades, where Hackman was a prominent figure. Authorities are still investigating the timeline of their deaths.

An avalanche hit Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, reportedly burying 57 workers in the Mana village. 10 workers managed to come out safely. The rescue operation is underway.State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), district administration, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) teams are on the spot.The India Meteorological Department (IMD)has predicted very heavy rain (up to 20 cm) over Uttarakhand till late night of February 28.

Manav Sharma, a 25-year-old TCS manager from Mumbai, died by suicide in Agra on February 24, 2025, after alleged marital harassment by his wife. Before his death, Manav recorded a 6-minute video expressing distress over the struggles men face in abusive relationships. He apologized to his family and requested greater awareness of men's emotional issues. Manav’s wife, Nikita, rejected the allegations, claiming his struggles were due to alcohol addiction and past suicide attempts. The family has filed a complaint, prompting an investigation. This case mirrors the suicide of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash, raising concerns about domestic abuse and mental health.

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has retained the interest rate on provident fund deposits at 8.25% for 2024-25, as confirmed by sources. This rate was increased from 8.15% for 2023-24, reversing a decrease to 8.1% in 2022-23, the lowest in over 40 years. The Central Board of Trustees (CBT) has proposed this rate, which now awaits approval from the Finance Ministry. Once approved, over 7 crore EPFO subscribers will see the updated rate credited to their accounts. The EPFO interest rate has varied over the years, reflecting broader economic conditions.

Russia's state seizures of foreign firms' assets, including U.S. and European companies like Glavprodukt and Carlsberg, offer a stark warning to those considering returning under a potential Trump-inspired thaw in relations. These assets have been placed under "temporary management," yet many businesses, including Glavprodukt, report lasting losses and diminishing control. Moscow's intention to restore ties with Western firms remains uncertain, with no clear plan for returning assets. The Russian state's takeover strategy, which includes shifting ownership to regime loyalists, has thus far been damaging for the companies involved, with little chance of reversal.

Sunil Gavaskar has declined to compare Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar, emphasizing that comparisons across eras are illogical. Speaking on the 'Dressing Room' show, Gavaskar highlighted the differences in playing conditions, opposition, and pitches across eras, making such comparisons unfair. He referred to this tendency to compare as a "subcontinent weakness," noting that similar comparisons are rarely made in other regions, like between Australian legends Ricky Ponting and Greg Chappell. Kohli, with 82 international centuries, has surpassed Tendulkar’s ODI century count, but Gavaskar believes the legacy of each player should be celebrated independently.

Pune police have arrested Dattatraya Ramdas Gade, a 26-year-old man, in connection with the rape of a 26-year-old woman aboard a state-operated bus at the Swargate depot. The incident occurred on Tuesday when the woman, en route to Phaltan, was misled by Gade into a parked MSRTC Shivsahi bus, where he assaulted her. Authorities launched a 72-hour manhunt, deploying 13 teams, including eight from the Crime Branch, and offering a ₹1 lakh reward for information leading to his arrest. Gade, a history-sheeter with prior theft and robbery charges, was apprehended on Thursday.