In Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh, a tragic accident occurred as a speeding tractor-trolley carrying around 40 people from Jaithara village plunged into a pond, killing at least 22 and injuring around 20. The incident took place on the Riyazganj-Patiyali link road near Gadhai village. Rescue operations are underway, with the injured receiving treatment at a local hospital. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced compensation for the victims and dispatched ministers to oversee relief efforts. Speeding is believed to be the cause of the accident.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defends the amendment to the temple tax provision, refuting BJP's claims of anti-Hindu measures. Siddaramaiah accuses the BJP of spreading misinformation for political gains, emphasizing that the recent changes aim to increase funds for temples. Under the amendment, temples with over ₹1 crore annual income pay 10% to a common pool, while those with ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore income pay 5%. Temples with up to ₹10 lakh income are now exempt. The funds benefit Dharmik Parishad, overseeing temple management. Siddaramaiah asserts the amendment maintains religious use and denies diversion to other purposes.

Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has collaborated with Swiggy for pre-ordered meal deliveries at railway stations. Initially available at Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam, the service will soon expand to more stations. Following a similar tie-up with Zomato, IRCTC aims to offer diverse food options to passengers. Swiggy's partnership is expected to enhance its business, leveraging the substantial passenger traffic in the country. Meanwhile, Swiggy gears up for an $11 billion IPO in 2024, aiming to raise ₹8,300 crore. The move aligns with IRCTC's strategy to enhance customer experience and expand services.

A devastating avalanche struck Jammu and Kashmir's Gulmarg, claiming one life, as eight skiers, including foreigners, were trapped near Khilan Marg. Rescue operations successfully saved seven lives, with the deceased identified as a Russian skier. The tragedy follows recent avalanche warnings in the region due to intensified cold waves. Russian Embassy confirms the incident on social media, emphasizing heavy snowfall triggering the avalanche. The state grapples with snow-related disruptions, shutting numerous roads and impacting electricity infrastructure. The avalanche's toll contributes to a total of 61 deaths from various incidents in the state since the year began.

X (formerly Twitter) acknowledges taking down accounts and posts linked to India's ongoing farmers' protest, citing "executive orders" from the government. The platform clarifies compliance with orders but disagrees with the actions, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression. Activists, including journalists, express concerns over account suspensions, claiming a government attempt to stifle dissent. X legally challenges the government's "blocking orders." India's opposition criticizes the clampdown. Farmers seek floor pricing, protesting since February 13, facing heavy barricades at Delhi borders. One protester dies amid tensions with Haryana police.

The Manipur High Court on Wednesday deleted a paragraph from its previous order recommending the state government consider recognizing the Meitei as a Scheduled Tribe. The original proposal had sparked violent clashes between the Meitei and tribal Kukis that began in May and have claimed hundreds of lives. In striking down the recommendation, the court said it was originally made due to a "misconception of law" and the failure of petitioners to properly assist the court. The tense situation arose from concerns that granting the Meitei tribe status would infringe on existing tribes' rights.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids on Thursday at four locations of the Hiranandani Group, a leading real estate developer in India, including three in Mumbai and one in Panvel. Sources reveal the action is linked to alleged violations of FEMA rules based on new inputs related to foreign exchange. Notably, the investigation is clarified to have no connection with Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra. Hiranandani Group, founded in 1978, has delivered 48 million sq ft of real estate and plans upcoming projects in Alibaug, Khandala, and Chennai, according to reports.

As protests resume, one farmer dies and several are injured in clashes with Haryana Police at Punjab-Haryana borders. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann vows a thorough investigation into the death of 24-year-old Shubh Karan Singh, halting the 'Delhi Chalo' march for two days. Violence erupts as farmers attempt to break barricades, leading to clashes with tear gas and stones. Haryana Police deny any firing but admit to tear gas use. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condemns the incident, while farmer leaders plan next steps. Bharatiya Kisan Union (Charuni) announces roadblocks in Haryana districts. Tensions persist over MSP and agricultural policies despite central proposals.

Karnataka government implements a sweeping ban on hookah bars across the state, with penalties including imprisonment up to three years and fines up to ₹1 lakh. The legislation, an amendment to the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, aims to safeguard public health and combat tobacco-related diseases. Additionally, the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products is raised to 21 years, aligning with efforts to deter underage smoking. Priyank Kharge, a state minister, underscores the move as crucial for public health and law enforcement, particularly targeting youth frequenting hookah bars. The directive also imposes restrictions on tobacco use in public places and near educational institutions.    

A 24-year-old farmer, Shubh Karan Singh, lost his life during clashes with Haryana Police at the Khanauri border. The protest, part of Farmers' Protest 2.0, escalated as police dropped tear gas shells despite appeals for peace. Singh, succumbing to a head injury, was rushed to the hospital where he passed away. The situation at Khanauri and Shambhu borders intensified as farmers sought to break police barriers. Conflicting reports emerged, with police denying fatalities. Farmer leaders vowed to continue the march, rejecting recent government proposals. The clash resulted in injuries on both sides, and tensions remain high.