The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has unveiled its initial list of 14 candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections on February 27. Notably, the list omits names of Union ministers whose terms are concluding. R P N Singh and Sudhanshu Trivedi feature from Uttar Pradesh, while Bihar sees Dharmsheela Gupta and Bhim Singh as BJP nominees. The party aims to secure seats in Haryana, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal. With elections approaching, the absence of Union ministers suggests potential participation in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Elections for 56 Rajya Sabha seats across 15 states are set for February 27.

Security measures are heightened in Delhi and Haryana ahead of the 'Delhi Chalo' march on February 13 organized by around 200 farmers' unions. Large gatherings are prohibited in Delhi's Seelampur, and mobile internet services are suspended in seven Haryana districts. The farmers, including groups like Samyukta Kisan Morcha, demand action from the Central government on issues like minimum support price (MSP). Delhi Police prepares with cranes and containers to prevent farmers from reaching the Delhi border through Haryana and Punjab. Tensions rise as authorities impose restrictions, drawing criticism from farmer leaders.

Tragedy struck at Raipur railway station in Chattisgarh as an RPSF constable, Dinesh Chandra (30), lost his life in an accidental firing incident. The mishap occurred as Chandra was disembarking from the Sarnath Express train after escort duty, resulting in his service weapon discharging and fatally injuring him. A passenger, Mohammad Danish, was also wounded in the abdomen during the incident. Both were rushed to a private hospital, where Chandra succumbed to his injuries. The deceased hailed from Rajasthan, and investigations into the matter are ongoing, according to Raipur railway station authorities.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the impending implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, clarifying its purpose to grant citizenship to those persecuted in neighboring countries. Shah confidently predicted BJP securing 370 seats and NDA exceeding 400 seats in the polls. He dismissed opposition suspense, emphasizing BJP's commitment to development. Regarding potential alliances, Shah hinted at more parties joining NDA, addressing ongoing talks with Shiromani Akali Dal. He justified a government white paper, citing the need for transparency about the UPA's economic condition in 2014. Shah also defended the Ram temple construction and discussed the Uniform Civil Code.

The Haryana government, led by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, has taken preemptive measures ahead of the proposed 'Delhi Chalo' march by farmers' unions on February 13. Suspension of mobile internet, bulk SMS, and dongle services has been announced in several districts till February 13. More than 200 farmers' unions are set to participate, demanding a law guaranteeing minimum support price (MSP) for crops. Security has been tightened at Punjab-Haryana borders, with barricades erected and alternative routes advised. Haryana Police, along with central paramilitary forces, are deployed to maintain law and order, urging protesters to obtain permission and warning against public property damage.

In a final address to the 17th Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi showcased the accomplishments of his government, emphasizing a commitment to inclusivity. Addressing the marginalized transgender community, he noted transformative steps taken to provide them with an identity. Over 16,000 members have received identity cards, accessed loans under the Mudra scheme, and even received prestigious Padma Awards. PM Modi expressed pride in uplifting the community, stating they now live lives of respect. The achievements, including the abrogation of Article 370 and criminalization of Triple Talaq, mark a period of significant reforms during the 17th Lok Sabha.

Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, admitted to a Kolkata hospital after complaining of chest pain, has been diagnosed with an Ischemic Cerebrovascular Stroke, as per an official statement from Apollo Hospitals. The 73-year-old actor is reportedly conscious, well-oriented, and consuming a soft diet. His son, Mimoh, initially mentioned a routine checkup. Mithun, recently honored with the Padma Bhushan, is under the care of a medical team for further evaluation. The actor, known for his extensive career, was last seen as a judge on the dance reality show Dance Bangla Dance.

The Narendra Modi government has kickstarted the construction of a new civilian terminal at the Thoise airbase in Ladakh, near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. This marks India's commitment to providing air connectivity to remote border regions. Thoise, primarily a military airbase, will soon accommodate more passenger flights. The estimated Rs 130 crore project includes a centrally air-conditioned Domestic Passenger Terminal Building. The move aims to boost the local economy and meet the longstanding demand for a civilian airport in Thoise. Ladakh MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal has actively advocated for this development.

BJP workers allegedly attacked journalist Nikhil Wagle's car in Pune, damaging the windscreen and side panes while he was en route to an event. The incident followed Wagle's criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP patriarch LK Advani after the latter was awarded the Bharat Ratna. A brief altercation ensued between Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and BJP workers before police intervention. Wagle, forgiving his attackers, emphasized Maharashtra's tradition of tolerance and urged support for MVA in upcoming elections. BJP leader Sunil Deodhar filed a case against Wagle for alleged offensive remarks. NCP's Supriya Sule condemned the attack, citing threats to free speech.

The Indian Navy continues its robust efforts against piracy, exemplified by recent successful interventions off the coast of Somalia. In two separate operations, Navy units rescued hijacked vessels and crew, showcasing its commitment to maritime security. With piracy incidents on the rise, the Navy's proactive engagements aim to safeguard vital trade routes in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean. Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt highlighted the Navy's proactive stance, emphasizing collaborative efforts with regional and extra-regional forces. As India's strategic interests expand across the Indian Ocean, the Navy's vigilance and partnerships remain pivotal in maintaining maritime stability.