Rahul Gandhi skipped the holy dip at the Kumbh Mela for the second time, calling it a "government and photo-op event." Congress leaders like Sachin Pilot and DK Shivakumar, however, participated, signaling internal discomfort. The party’s leadership aims to counter BJP’s Hindu outreach but faces criticism for its stance. Gandhi previously declared himself a "janeu-dhaari Shiv bhakt" but dismissed the Ram Mandir ceremony as a BJP event. With Uttar Pradesh crucial for Congress, avoiding religious events could hurt its electoral prospects. Internal debates continue over balancing secularism with Hindu voter outreach.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has supported Donald Trump’s proposal for the US, Russia, and China to cut their defense budgets by 50%. Calling it a “good idea,” Putin stated Moscow is open to discussions with Washington. However, China’s President Xi Jinping rejected the proposal, citing national security concerns and the need for military expansion. Trump emphasized that reducing military spending could fund other priorities. Moscow’s stance hints at a possible truce in Ukraine, while Beijing remains committed to increasing its defense budget. China currently has the world’s second-largest military budget after the US.

Pakistan’s Punjab Police dismissed over 100 officers for refusing security duties during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The officers, assigned to safeguard teams between Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and hotels, either remained absent or refused duties, citing long working hours. Punjab IGP Usman Anwar ordered strict action, stating there’s “no room for negligence” in international event security. The sackings follow a high alert on threats against foreign nationals. Meanwhile, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar dismissed reports of security concerns, claiming Pakistan is hosting the event “peacefully.” Pakistan’s team has already exited the tournament after defeats to India and New Zealand.

Kerala Police are probing the shocking murder of five people by 23-year-old Afan in Thiruvananthapuram, focusing on financial debt rather than drug use. Afan, who confessed and is hospitalised, allegedly killed his grandmother, uncle, aunt, younger brother, and girlfriend before surrendering. The family owed ₹64 lakh to multiple lenders, and Afan had recently pawned stolen gold. Investigators await toxicology reports and digital evidence. His mother, also attacked, is recovering. Authorities are working to bring Afan’s father back from Saudi Arabia. Police have deployed 25 officers to investigate the brutal killings.

In a thrilling FIH Pro League match, India’s women’s hockey team defeated the world No. 1 Netherlands 2-1 in a shootout after drawing 2-2 in regulation time. Despite being two goals down, India mounted a comeback with goals from Deepika (35’) and Baljeet Kaur (43’). The Netherlands led with goals from Pien Sanders (17’) and Fay van der Elst (28’). In the shootout, Deepika and Mumtaz Khan scored, while goalkeeper Savita made crucial saves. This victory marked India's final home match in the 2024-25 Pro League campaign before heading to London in June to face Australia and Argentina.

Haryana reclaimed the 3rd spot in the 2025 National Games, finishing with an impressive 153 medals—48 gold, 47 silver, and 58 bronze. The state showcased remarkable dedication, hard work, and sportsmanship. Haryana’s athletes excelled in various sports, including wrestling, where they won six golds, and wushu, where they bagged 15 medals. The women’s hockey team claimed the gold, defeating Madhya Pradesh 4-1. The state also performed well in fencing, athletics, judo, and archery. Haryana's success is attributed to its robust sports policies, offering employment and rewards for athletes, making it a model for other states.

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that imposing a lifetime ban on politicians convicted in criminal cases is "harsh." The government contends that such a ban would be disproportionate and may infringe upon the rights of elected representatives. This statement was made in response to a petition seeking a lifetime ban on convicted politicians from contesting elections. The Supreme Court is currently deliberating on this matter, considering the implications for democracy and the rights of elected officials.

On February 26, 2025, a terrorist attack occurred in the Sunderbani area of Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir. Militants fired one or two rounds at an army vehicle on patrol near Phall village, located along Sunderbani-Malla Road. The vehicle, part of the 9 JAK Rifles, was unscathed, with no reported casualties. The area, known for militant activity, was swiftly cordoned off, and a search operation was launched. Reinforcements have been deployed as the army remains on high alert. Authorities have not yet provided further details on the incident.

On Wednesday, President Trump shared an AI-generated video on Truth Social depicting Gaza as a luxury resort with the name "Trump Gaza." The video features a reimagined, beachfront Gaza with Trump-branded hotels, Tesla-filled streets, a golden Trump statue, and an AI version of Elon Musk. It ends with Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu relaxing by a pool. This follows Trump's earlier claim to "take over" Gaza, which he suggested would become the “Riviera of the Middle East.” The White House clarified that the U.S. has no military plan to intervene, amidst ongoing conflict that has claimed over 48,000 lives.

Donald Trump, during a media event, got teary-eyed over a map featuring the newly renamed "Gulf of America," which he had declared through an executive order. Despite controversy, tech giants like Apple and Microsoft updated their maps to reflect the change. The Associated Press (AP) continued using the original "Gulf of Mexico," leading to a legal battle between the White House and the AP. Trump criticized the AP for its stance, while Elon Musk mocked them on social media. Legal proceedings continue, with Trump adamant about enforcing the name change.