Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP ATS) apprehended a Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agent, Satyendra Siwal, stationed at the Indian Embassy in Moscow since 2021. Siwal, employed as Multi-Tasking Staff at the Ministry of External Affairs, confessed to espionage after initial denials. Allegations include luring Indian officials for sensitive information on the army and divulging embassy, defense, and external affairs data to ISI. The arrest follows a tip-off regarding espionage activities at the embassy. Siwal's apprehension underscores concerns over foreign infiltration and underscores the need for heightened security measures in diplomatic missions.

Thousands in Leh and Kargil districts of Ladakh rallied in protest against Article 370 changes, demanding statehood. Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance called for the complete shutdown, seeking tribal status, inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, job reservation, and parliamentary seats. Despite freezing temperatures, demonstrators, including Magsaysay Award winner Sonam Wangchuk, voiced demands at the Polo Ground in Leh. Marches and speeches underscored calls for constitutional rights. Talks between the Union home ministry committee and protest leaders are set for February 19. Concerns persist since Ladakh's 2019 downgrade to a Union Territory.

Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) completes re-carpeting and refurbishment of Runway 10/28, enabling CAT III technology for low-visibility landings. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announces the operationalization of CAT III, aiming to alleviate weather-related congestion issues. With four operational runways, Delhi Airport enhances capacity to handle up to 100 million passengers per annum (MPPA). Re-carpeting efforts, initiated in September 2023, focused on enhancing passenger experience and introducing additional taxiways. CAT III technology ensures precise instrument landing system capabilities, facilitating safe landings in adverse weather conditions. Delhi Airport joins other major Indian airports in adopting advanced CAT III technology for improved flight operations.        

Uddhav Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi expressed criticism towards national TV channels for prioritizing coverage of Poonam Pandey's fake death over the gang war in Maharashtra's Ulhasnagar. Chaturvedi highlighted the incident where BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad fired at Shinde Sena leader Mahesh Gaikwad inside a police station, captured on CCTV. Meanwhile, model-actor Poonam Pandey's fake death for cervical cancer awareness also drew attention. Chaturvedi condemned Pandey's PR stunt, emphasizing more appropriate methods for raising awareness. Former Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray echoed concerns over lawlessness in Maharashtra, attributing it to governance issues under the current leadership.

The Indian Sports Ministry has suspended the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) for failing to conduct elections within the mandated timeframe. PCI's decision to schedule elections for March 28, nearly two months after the previous committee's term ended, violated constitutional guidelines and the Sports Code. The Ministry deemed PCI's actions intentional and without valid reason, undermining democratic processes. To safeguard para-sportspersons' interests, the Sports Authority of India will collaborate with the International Paralympic Committee to form an Ad Hoc Committee. The move aims to ensure transparent and democratic governance in Indian para-sports.          

professor and five students from Pune University were arrested for staging a controversial play based on the epic Ramayan, causing outrage over objectionable scenes, including one depicting Sita smoking. The RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad lodged a complaint, leading to charges under section 295(A) of the Indian Penal Code. The play sparked a scuffle between ABVP members and students. Police arrested the head of the Lalit Kala Kendra department and students involved. The incident highlights tensions surrounding artistic interpretations of religious texts, particularly those with cultural significance like the Ramayana.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken legal action after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal skipped his fifth summons in the alleged liquor policy scandal. Kejriwal, who has consistently labeled the summonses as illegal, faces complaints under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The Rouse Avenue court in New Delhi will address the case on Wednesday. Speculation swirls around Kejriwal's potential arrest, as two other AAP leaders were previously detained in connection with the case. The AAP denounced the ED's actions as politically motivated. Kejriwal had previously been questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation without being charged.

Former Deputy Prime Minister and BJP stalwart LK Advani expressed profound gratitude after being awarded the Bharat Ratna by PM Modi. "With utmost humility and gratitude, I accept the Bharat Ratna that has been conferred on me today," Advani said, calling it an honor for his ideals. He credited his family, saying, "I also express my deepest feelings for all members of my family, especially my dear departed wife Kamla." Reflecting on his journey, he stated, "Ever since I joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh as its volunteer at the age of 14, I have sought reward in only one thing – in dedicated and selfless service of my beloved country."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani will be bestowed with the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award. PM Modi described it as an "emotional moment" and praised Advani's significant role in shaping India's development. Advani, a respected statesman, served as Deputy Prime Minister and held key ministerial positions during his illustrious career. Known for his commitment to transparency and integrity, Advani's parliamentary contributions have been lauded. PM Modi emphasized the exemplary standards set by Advani in political ethics and national unity, highlighting the privilege of learning from him.

A massive fire erupted at the Adima Private Limited factory in the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) premises in Musalgaon, Sinnar, causing panic and chaos in the area. The blaze, which broke out around 4 pm, quickly engulfed the Adima Organics factory on Musalgaon Sinnar Expressway. Approximately 10 to 12 employees were present during the incident. Firefighters rushed to the scene, deploying five fire tenders to contain the flames. The intense fire, accompanied by sporadic explosions, led to plumes of smoke billowing into the air. Efforts are underway to bring the situation under control.