The 38th National Games, held in Uttarakhand from January 28 to February 14, 2025, concluded with the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) leading the medal tally. SSCB secured a total of 121 medals, comprising 68 golds, 26 silvers, and 27 bronzes. Maharashtra followed closely with 201 medals (54 golds, 71 silvers, and 76 bronzes), while Haryana claimed third place with 153 medals (48 golds, 47 silvers, and 58 bronzes). Hosts Uttarakhand achieved a commendable sixth position, amassing 103 medals, including 24 golds. Notably, Bihar ended a 25-year gold medal drought, with athletes Payal, Khushboo Kumari, and Nikhath Khatoon winning the women's triple lawn bowls event. The Games featured over 10,000 athletes competing across 35 sports disciplines, showcasing India's diverse athletic talent.   

On February 17, 2025, at 6:35 AM IST, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck 93 kilometers northeast of Lobuche, Nepal. The tremors were strongly felt across Delhi-NCR and several regions of North India, including parts of Bihar. The epicenter was near Gokarneshwar, Nepal. While no significant damage or casualties have been reported, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Residents are advised to remain alert as aftershocks are possible in the coming hours.   

On February 16, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Ukraine and European nations will be included in any substantive negotiations to end the conflict initiated by Moscow. This statement comes as U.S. and Russian officials prepare to meet in Saudi Arabia, aiming to assess Russian President Vladimir Putin's commitment to peace. Despite initial concerns from European leaders about being excluded, Rubio assured that meaningful discussions would involve all relevant parties. Concurrently, U.S. officials have consulted European counterparts regarding potential troop contributions to enforce a future peace agreement. The upcoming days are expected to reveal the seriousness of Russia's intentions toward resolving the conflict.   

On February 15, 2025, a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station resulted in at least 18 fatalities, including 14 women and a 7-year-old child. The incident occurred around 8:00 PM as thousands of passengers, en route to the Maha Kumbh festival in Prayagraj, were informed of sudden platform changes, leading to panic and a deadly crush. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced an investigation into the tragedy.

Two men, Sandeep Singh (Sunny) and Pradeep Singh, were arrested on February 15, 2025, at Amritsar airport after being deported from the US. The duo, originally from Rajpura, Patiala, were wanted in a 2023 murder case. The murder investigation led to their inclusion in the case, with Pradeep added as an accomplice. The pair were among 116 deported individuals aboard a US military aircraft, part of a crackdown on illegal immigrants. The police were tipped off about their arrival and apprehended them immediately. Their arrest marks a significant success in the cooperation between various law enforcement agencies.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded its visa-on-arrival facility for Indian nationals, now including travelers from six additional countries. This initiative aims to bolster tourism and business ties between India and the UAE. Eligible Indian passport holders can obtain a 14-day visa, extendable for an additional 14 days, or a 60-day non-extendable visa upon arrival. To qualify, travelers must possess a valid passport with at least six months' validity and meet specific criteria set by UAE authorities.

Sir John Major warns democracy is under threat due to the US's "isolation" under Trump, which he believes empowers nations like Russia and China. Major sees a reversal of post-Soviet Union gains, particularly with Russia's aggression in Ukraine. He condemns rising nationalism and its destabilizing effect. Major also criticized US VP JD Vance’s remarks on Europe’s free speech, pointing out Russia's repressive actions. He stresses the need for increased defense funding to counter global threats. Meanwhile, UK officials discuss rising defense contributions amid growing international tensions.

The IPL 2025 season kicks off on March 22 with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) facing Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Eden Gardens. The tournament will feature 10 teams and span 65 days across 13 venues, with the final on May 25 in Kolkata. Key matchups include CSK vs MI and KKR vs RCB on the opening weekend. The season includes 12 double-headers, and new venues like Dharamsala, Guwahati, and Visakhapatnam will host a few games. Playoffs will be held in Hyderabad and Kolkata.

Over 100 Indian migrants have been deported from the United States, recounting harrowing journeys through perilous 'donkey routes' to reach their destination. These individuals traversed dense jungles, crossed treacherous terrains, and endured life-threatening conditions, including walking 45 kilometers and witnessing fatalities along the way. Many were deceived by agents who promised legal entry into the U.S., only to be subjected to dangerous and illegal paths. Upon arrival, they faced detention in dark cells and were eventually deported back to India, highlighting the severe risks associated with illegal immigration.

French President Emmanuel Macron has called an emergency meeting of European leaders to discuss the implications of Donald Trump's actions on European security and NATO. Set for Monday in Paris, the meeting aims to address concerns over Trump's recent moves, including his influence on European defense policies. Polish foreign minister Radosław Sikorski compared Trump's strategy to a Russian military approach, urging European leaders to respond decisively. Macron has maintained diplomatic relations with Trump, despite growing concerns about his impact on global stability.