India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for a new spaceport in Kulasekharapatnam, Tamil Nadu. The site will complement the existing one in Sriharikota, addressing limitations for small rocket launches due to land constraints. The new location's proximity to the equator makes it ideal for polar orbit missions. With an allocated area of 961 hectares, it is expected to be operational in two years at a cost of around ₹1000 crores. Private companies like Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos anticipate benefits, enhancing India's spacefaring capabilities and boosting the small rocket market.

A deadly fire broke out in a crowded slum area of Bhayandar East, near Mumbai, Maharashtra. One person died, and several others were injured in the blaze, which started around 4:30 am. The fire quickly spread through narrow alleys, engulfing huts and shops. The cause of the fire is suspected to be waste dumped nearby. Twenty-four fire tenders were deployed to combat the flames, with the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation leading rescue efforts. The fire's origin in Azad Nagar remains under investigation.

The Sea Phase of Naval exercise Milan concluded aboard INS Vikrant in Vishakapatnam. 35 units, including ships, submarines, and aircraft, participated, with 13 ships and one aircraft from Friendly Foreign Countries. It marked the first time INS Vikrant and Vikramaditya, two naval aircraft carriers, participated together. The exercises covered surface, sub-surface, and air warfare, including operations against asymmetric threats. Activities included surface firings, anti-air shoots, anti-submarine warfare, air defense exercises, ship-borne helicopter operations, and seamanship evolutions. The closing ceremony facilitated interaction, exchange of views, and enhanced mutual understanding and interoperability among participating navies.

The Union Home Ministry has prolonged the ban on Jammu and Kashmir Jamaat-e-Islami for another five years, citing its involvement in activities threatening national security. Home Minister Amit Shah emphasizes zero-tolerance against terrorism and separatism, warning of severe consequences for those posing a threat. The initial declaration of Jamaat-e-Islami as an 'Unlawful Association' on February 28, 2019, led to the ban on its activities, accused of promoting separatism. The extension aligns with government efforts to curb such activities post Article 370 abrogation, emphasizing a tough stance on groups sympathetic to separatism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Supreme Court asserts, 'India is taken for a ride by Patanjali Ayurved,' as it warns of potential contempt action. The court criticizes the company for breaking promises on misleading ads, questions government's oversight. IMA alleges smear campaign against Covid-19 vaccination. Patanjali assured compliance in November but accused of violating the undertaking. Bench warns against adverse statements on any medical system. IMA raises concerns over Ramdev's misleading claims about blood pressure medication. Acknowledging violations, the court issues a notice, contemplating contempt proceedings against Patanjali and its managing director.

Maharashtra state in India will inspect fast-food outlets like McDonald's for mislabeling products as containing real cheese when they actually use cheese alternatives. This follows reports of McDonald's using "cheese analogs" instead of real cheese. The inspections will also extend to other major global brands like Domino's, Pizza Hut, Burger King, and KFC. Westlife Foodworld, McDonald's biggest franchisee in India, dropped the word "cheese" from its products' names after the controversy. State authorities have the power to suspend licenses of restaurants found violating food and safety regulations.

Bengal Governor Ananda Bose gave the state government a 72-hour ultimatum to arrest Sheikh Shahjahan, accused of sexual assault and land grab in Sandeshkhali. He threatened to move his base there if no action is taken. The High Court dismissed claims hindering Shahjahan's arrest and stated he should be apprehended. Trinamool leader Kunal Ghosh assured Shahjahan's arrest within seven days. The accused went missing after his supporters attacked an Enforcement Directorate team. Sandeshkhali residents allege Shahjahan and his associates of land grab, extortion, and harassment, including sexual violence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated at a global summit that the world no longer finds it surprising to witness India's achievements, considering it the new normal. Modi emphasized the growing trust in India as the country's most significant recognition. Criticizing past governments, he highlighted the shift from an era of hopelessness, asserting that India now decides and implements decisions swiftly. In the past decade, India has risen to become one of the world's top five economies. Modi concluded that the world acknowledges India's ability to deliver efficiently and on time.

A freight train in northern India rolled unmanned for about 45 miles, reaching speeds up to 46 mph, captured in a viral video. No injuries occurred as emergency brakes and track stones halted the train's journey from Kathua to Hoshiarpur. The pilot and assistant left for unknown reasons, leading to the unmanned ride. Gravity-assisted diversion onto an uphill path aided in stopping. Four suspended, high-level inquiry underway at Kathua Railway Station. India's vast rail network, over 160 years old, faces occasional incidents. Last June, a deadly collision in Odisha claimed 275 lives.

Uttar Pradesh Police resorted to cane-charging a frenzied crowd during Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff's stunt event in Lucknow's Hussainabad. Chaos erupted as fans scrambled for film merchandise thrown by the Bollywood duo, breaking barricades. Videos of the incident went viral, showing police intervention near the Clock Tower. While organizers claim no injuries, locals report some casualties. The actors left abruptly, and police assert control was quickly restored. Heritage enthusiasts express concern over such events at historic sites, citing potential damage. The next hearing for the case is scheduled for March 1.