In a significant move against terror funding in Jammu and Kashmir, the NIA has attached four properties and seized Rs 2.27 crore cash in the Handwara narco-terrorism case involving LeT and HM. The attached properties include houses belonging to accused individuals in Kupwara district. So far, 12 accused have been arrested, and 15 individuals have been charged. The case stems from the use of drug proceeds to finance terror activities. It began with the seizure of cash during a vehicle check in Handwara, leading to a broader investigation uncovering heroin and incriminating materials. The NIA remains committed to dismantling terror networks in Kashmir.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman surprised Mumbai locals by riding the train from Ghatkopar to Kalyan, interacting with passengers along the way. She took selfies with commuters during her journey on the city's vital transport network, which carries over 60 lakh passengers daily. Sitharaman's move echoes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's previous public transport trips, including a Mumbai Metro ride last year. Modi's gesture highlights the importance of public transportation and connects leaders with citizens on their daily commutes.

The Uttar Pradesh government has canceled the police constable recruitment exam due to a paper leak. Over 48 lakh candidates applied, but allegations arose of the paper being available for purchase before the exam. The re-examination will take place within six months, with free transport provided. The Special Task Force will now investigate, and an FIR will be filed against those responsible for the leak. Candidates protested in Lucknow, demanding a fair re-examination.

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.