Bangladesh’s interim government chief, Muhammad Yunus, indicated elections may be held by year-end. In an interview with Japan’s NHK, he said the new government would have a "secure and strong foundation" to rebuild the nation. Sheikh Hasina was ousted in August 2024 following mass protests, leading to the formation of the interim government. The opposition BNP demands an election date, while Jamaat-e-Islami urges more time for Yunus. BNP leader Tarique Rahman warned, “Election must happen on time, no alternative exists.” The political divide intensifies as Bangladesh awaits an official announcement.

Orebro, Sweden, witnessed its deadliest mass shooting as a gunman killed 10 students at the Risbergska school before taking his own life. The victims, including Syrians and Bosnians, were studying at an adult learning center. Authorities have yet to confirm the shooter's identity, but local reports suggest he was a 35-year-old Swedish man. The attack has left Sweden’s immigrant communities fearful, with many questioning the motive. “We could not dream of this,” said Syrian Orthodox priest Jacob Kasselia. The lack of information from police has fueled anxiety, as residents demand answers.

Forbes' 2025 rankings of the world's most powerful countries place India at 12th, highlighting its growing economic and military strength. The United States remains the most powerful, followed by China and Russia. Despite a $3.55 trillion economy and a 1.43 billion population, India is yet to break into the top 10. The rankings consider economic influence, military capability, and global diplomacy. As India strengthens its international ties, experts predict its rise in future rankings. "India's strategic position and rapid development indicate its growing global influence," said an analyst. The rankings also feature Germany, Japan, and Saudi Arabia.

The Indian government confirmed that 487 illegal Indian migrants in the US are set for deportation. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that Washington has issued removal orders for these presumed Indian nationals. The announcement follows the deportation of 104 migrants, mostly from Haryana and Punjab, who landed in Amritsar on January 5. Many claimed they were handcuffed during transit. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar acknowledged concerns over mistreatment, vowing to raise the issue with US authorities. Since 2009, 15,668 Indians have been deported. The Indian government is verifying identities before further deportations.

Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s Kolkata flagship store, located on Lake Road, reportedly costs over ₹20 lakh in rent per month. VJ-turned-content-creator Shenaz Treasury shared a video tour, calling it a “fashion temple.” The store showcases the designer’s signature blend of Indian heritage and luxury, featuring opulent chandeliers, antique frames, velvet sofas, and a red-carpet-worthy staircase. Shenaz tried on an ₹8 lakh lehenga and admired ₹4 crore jewellery pieces, emphasizing the store’s grandeur. She remarked, “Even the washroom feels luxurious!” The store is a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts seeking an extravagant shopping experience.

Shantanu Naidu, former manager and close aide of late Ratan Tata, has been appointed General Manager and Head of Strategic Initiatives at Tata Motors. An engineer from Savitribai Phule Pune University and an MBA graduate from Cornell, Naidu first joined Tata as an assistant in 2018. In an emotional LinkedIn post, he recalled childhood memories of his father working at Tata Motors, calling his appointment a “full circle” moment. His relationship with Ratan Tata extended beyond work, as the industrialist named him in his will and waived his education loans. Naidu also founded Goodfellows, a startup for senior citizens.

Prakriti Malla from Nepal has gained global recognition for her exceptionally beautiful handwriting. First noticed at age 16, her eighth-grade assignment went viral for its near-perfect script, astonishing handwriting experts. Many compare her writing to computer-generated text. Malla’s talent earned her honors from the Nepalese armed forces, and she even wrote a congratulatory letter to the UAE’s leadership on its 51st Spirit of the Union, personally delivering it to the embassy. As digital communication replaces handwriting, her calligraphy serves as a reminder of the art’s importance in education and personal expression.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6.25% for the first time in nearly five years. Announcing the decision, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra projected India's GDP growth at 6.7% for 2025-26. Home loan interest rates are expected to decline, boosting the real estate sector. The central bank also forecasted CPI inflation at 4.2% for the next fiscal year. With global uncertainties persisting, the RBI will maintain a neutral monetary stance. Additionally, it launched a financial literacy campaign for women starting February 24 to enhance their role in economic decision-making.

Villagers in northern India are knitting massive sweaters to protect rescued elephants from the winter chill. The initiative, led by the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Center, helps 20 elephants previously abused in circuses and logging camps. "It's important to keep our elephants protected from the bitter cold," said Wildlife SOS co-founder Kartick Satyanarayan, noting their vulnerability to ailments like pneumonia. The colorful, hand-knit garments ensure the animals stay warm and healthy. This compassionate effort highlights India's commitment to wildlife welfare and conservation, providing comfort to the gentle giants during the harsh winter.

Salvador Dalí’s surrealist masterpieces are being exhibited in India for the first time. The showcase, curated by Christine Argillet, features over 200 original sketches, etchings, and watercolors at Delhi’s India Habitat Centre (Feb 7-13) and Masarrat Gallery (Feb 15-Mar 16). Dalí, fascinated by Indian mysticism, incorporated elements of India into his works, including elephants and temples. Notably, in 1967, he designed ashtrays for Air India in exchange for a baby elephant. “Dalí’s art reveals new meanings with every look,” Argillet said. The exhibition highlights his surrealist vision and artistic legacy.