Days after Tarique Rahman's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) swept to a two-thirds majority in February 12 elections and Rahman took oath as Prime Minister on February 17, Bangladesh's military underwent a sweeping top-level reshuffle. Lieutenant General M Mainur Rahman was appointed the new Chief of General Staff, replacing Lieutenant General Mizanur Rahman Shamim who retired. Major General Kaiser Rashid Chowdhury was named Director General of the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI). Significantly, Brigadier General Mohammad Hafizur Rahman, serving as defence adviser at Bangladesh's High Commission in India, was recalled and promoted, appointed GOC of the 55th Infantry Division. The sweeping changes signal the new BNP government's intent to firmly consolidate strategic military command structures under its administration. (PC: NDTV)

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will embark on his first official India visit later this month as part of a broader Indo-Pacific tour spanning India, Australia, and Japan from February 26 to March 7, 2026. Carney will begin in Mumbai before travelling to New Delhi for talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on trade, clean energy, technology, artificial intelligence, talent mobility, culture, and defence cooperation. The visit carries significant diplomatic weight as both nations work to reset bilateral ties following a period of notable strain. Carney will also engage Indian business leaders on investment opportunities. The tour reflects Canada's broader push to build a stronger, more independent economy amid escalating global trade uncertainties driven largely by Trump-era tariff disruptions. (PC: X)

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has formally written to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirming his government's support for removing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the British royal line of succession. Andrew, currently eighth in line to the throne, was arrested by Thames Valley Police on February 19 at his Sandringham residence on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Allegations tied to claims he shared confidential information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during official overseas visits. Released after 11 hours of questioning, he remains under investigation without charges filed. Removing Andrew from succession would require primary legislation approved by both Houses of Parliament, royal assent from King Charles III, and consent from 14 Commonwealth realms including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. (PC: India Today)

India’s team management said Axar Patel’s absence against South Africa was a tactical call based on balance. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said the think tank had “spent so much time deliberating about the 11.” He said the choice was between Axar and Washington Sundar. “The decision was purely around match-ups and power-play plans,” he added. India wanted an extra batter in Rinku Singh and a bowler who could operate early. “It’s not to take anything away from Axar and his leadership,” he said. South Africa scored 187/7 and bowled India out for 111, winning by 76 runs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team of Manipuri film Boong after it won Best Children’s and Family Film at the British Academy Film Awards.   In a post on X, he said, “Congratulations to all those associated with this film. This is indeed a moment of immense joy, especially for Manipur. It also highlights the immense creative talent in our nation.”   The film is directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and backed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani. It tells the story of a young boy searching for his father. The award ceremony was held in London. 

Star Sports removed its ‘Cupcake’ promo after India’s heavy loss to South Africa in the T20 World Cup Super 8 match in Ahmedabad.   The ad had mocked South Africa’s past record and suggested India would win comfortably. However, India were beaten by 76 runs.   The promo was later deleted from digital platforms. The move has sparked discussion over the tone of cricket promotions before major matches.   Viewers questioned whether such campaigns assume victory too early and show little respect for the opposition.

Violence broke out in several parts of Mexico after drug cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, was killed during an army operation in Jalisco state.   The Mexican defence ministry said four cartel members were killed and three soldiers were injured in Tapalpa. After his death, suspected members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel set up roadblocks and burned vehicles in at least a dozen states.   About 250 roadblocks were reported across the country. President Claudia Sheinbaum said there was “absolute co-ordination” between authorities and urged people to stay calm. The US had offered a $15m reward for information on El Mencho. (PC: BBC)

Rahul Gandhi met Kotdwar gym trainer Mohammad Deepak Kumar weeks after a Republic Day dispute over a shop name triggered tensions.   The row began on January 26 when some people allegedly asked a shopkeeper to change his shop’s name. Deepak said he objected when the group argued with the owner. Police later filed FIRs from both sides.   After meeting Gandhi, Deepak said, “He told me not to be afraid. He said I have not done anything wrong.” He added, “He said he will come to Kotdwar and join my gym.”   Deepak said his gym membership dropped from 150 to 12–15 daily. (PC: X)

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has accused former chief adviser Muhammad Yunus of trying to remove him in an unconstitutional way. In an interview with Kaler Kantho, he said there were efforts to “destroy the peace and order” and create a constitutional vacuum.   He claimed Yunus did not follow constitutional rules. “He travelled abroad 14 to 15 times, but not once did he inform me,” the president said. He also alleged he was made a “palace prisoner” and that his planned visits to Kosovo and Qatar were blocked.   Shahabuddin said the Army and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party supported him during the crisis. (PC: NDTV)

An Indian tech reviewer has claimed he and his parents faced racist behaviour at a five-star resort in Mauritius. Posting on X, he said he paid ₹3.5 lakh for the stay. The trip was to celebrate his new job.   He said the incident took place on Easter. Around 1 pm, he called reception to book lunch and was asked to wait. By 1:45 pm, no one responded. When the family went to the restaurant, they were not guided to the Easter buffet.   “My mom literally begged if we can have lunch somewhere,” he wrote. He also claimed fries were refilled for a European guest but not for him. (PC: HT)