In a late-night operation, Mumbai police detained Bigg Boss 17 winner and comedian Munawar Faruqui, along with 13 others, during a raid on a hookah bar. Faruqui was released after a case was registered under The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003. The raid followed a tip-off about nicotine misuse. Police confiscated Rs 4,400 and nine hookah pots worth Rs 13,500. Faruqui, found present during the raid, faced penalties after medical tests. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.            

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized Rs 2.54 crore, part of it found in a washing machine, during searches related to a forex violation case. Capricornian Shipping & Logistics Pvt Ltd and its directors, along with associated entities, are under investigation for suspicious outward remittances of Rs 1,800 crore to Singapore-based companies. These remittances were disguised as bogus freight services and imports. The ED found incriminating documents and froze 47 bank accounts. The probe agency is unraveling a web of complex transactions involving shell entities.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed, "The BJP and the entire Parliament believe that POK is an integral part of India." Emphasizing the goal of every Indian to reclaim it. Shah debunked myths surrounding Article 370's abrogation, stating Kashmiris are now free with enhanced cultural importance. He attributed past separatist ideology to Article 370 and highlighted progress in Jammu and Kashmir, with terrorism waning and corruption targeted. Shah criticized Congress, NC, and PDP, aiming to liberate Kashmir from dynastic politics. He underscored the importance of grassroots democracy and increased participation in panchayat elections under Modi's leadership.

After a 21-day hunger strike, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk ends his protest for Ladakh's statehood and ecological protection. Wangchuk pledges to persist in advocating for Ladakh's constitutional safeguards and political rights. Thousands gather across the Union Territory as his fast concludes. Women's groups in Ladakh announce plans to initiate a hunger strike, continuing the struggle for statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

A recent Lancet study forecasts a significant drop in India's total fertility rate (TFR) to 1.29 children per woman by 2050, posing challenges for the nation. Experts attribute the decline to delayed marriage, increased female literacy, and urban lifestyles. Concerns include an ageing population, labor shortages, and gender imbalances. Poonam Muttreja from the Population Foundation of India advocates for proactive measures to address future challenges, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches. The study underscores the importance of policies supporting families and engaging men, as seen in Scandinavian countries, to mitigate socio-economic impacts.

A visually impaired beggar in Guwahati, Assam, has sparked attention by accepting alms through a QR code. The beggar's innovative approach to digital transactions was shared on social media, garnering significant responses. Congress leader Gauravv Somani praised the beggar's integration of technology into his plea for help, noting its testament to the power of technology to transcend socio-economic barriers. The story highlights the intersection of humanity and digital advancement, prompting reflection on compassion and innovation in today's society.

Khalistani separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun alleges that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) received $16 million from Khalistani groups between 2014 and 2022. He claims Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal offered to help release Delhi bomb blast convict Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar in exchange for funds. Pannun, a US-Canadian citizen, heads Sikhs For Justice. He accuses Kejriwal of promising Bhullar's release at a 2014 New York meeting. Earlier, Pannun accused Kejriwal and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann of accepting $6 million in donations from Khalistan backers. Pannun warned of consequences if demands weren't met by February.

A thrilling video of a tiger jumping over a river at Sundarban National Park, West Bengal, is making waves online. Ananth Rupanagudi, an Indian Railway Accounts Service officer, shared the clip, which shows the tiger leaping an impressive 20ft from a standing position. Rupanagudi marveled at the extraordinary moment, describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime sight. The video has gone viral, captivating viewers with the tiger's incredible agility. It's a breathtaking reminder of the beauty and wonder of wildlife in their natural environment.

In a tragic incident at Thane's Goregaon village, 9-year-old Ibad was kidnapped and killed after leaving his mosque. The culprit, Salman Maulvi, a nearby tailor, planned the abduction to demand ₹23 lakh for a new house. Ibad's family panicked when he didn't return, and a ransom call confirmed their worst fears. However, the call abruptly ended, leaving them in distress. The motive behind the crime was to fund Salman's housing project. The horrifying event has left the community reeling, sparking concerns about safety in the area.

India aims to transition from minimum wage to living wage by 2025, seeking assistance from the International Labour Organization (ILO) to establish a framework. Living wages, endorsed by the ILO, account for basic needs like housing, food, and healthcare, surpassing basic minimum wages. The move follows the ILO's agreement on the reform during its recent meeting. With over 500 million workers, mostly in the unorganized sector, receiving daily minimum wages, the shift aims to ensure fairer compensation. However, challenges remain as state-level adherence to national wage floors varies.