India's GDP grew by 6.2% in the October-December quarter, aligning with estimates. This marks an improvement from the previous quarter's 5.8% growth. The acceleration is attributed to increased government expenditure, which rose by 8.3%, and a 6.9% year-on-year surge in private consumer spending, driven by better rural demand and festival season purchases. The gross value added (GVA), a more stable measure of economic activity, also grew by 6.2%. The government has raised its full-year growth forecast to 6.5% from 6.4%. Additionally, India's central bank implemented its first rate cut in nearly five years to further support economic growth, as inflation dropped to 4.3% in January.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis received a threatening WhatsApp message from a Pakistani number, allegedly from one Malik Shahbaz Humayun Raza, warning of an attack. Mumbai Police have initiated an investigation to trace the sender and evaluate the threat's authenticity, enhancing security measures for the CM. In a related incident, two individuals were arrested for sending a bomb threat to Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. The suspects, Mangesh Wayal and Abhay Shingane, were detained following an investigation by the Mumbai Police and Buldhana Police. The threats, which raised concerns, are currently under further scrutiny as authorities pursue leads on potential motives and affiliations.

The UK is bracing for snow and torrential rain this week, with most regions facing extreme weather, except for one area. Weather maps predict snow falling at a rate of 1 cm per hour in the Yorkshire Dales starting midnight on Thursday, March 13. Lighter flurries are expected in the Scottish Highlands and parts of Wales, including Cardiff and Gwynedd, along with rain in the southeast and parts of Manchester. Snow will continue in North West, Scotland, and Wales as the day progresses. The Met Office forecasts above-average rainfall through mid-March, with some drier periods possible in the south and east.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) requires 35-40 new fighter jets annually to strengthen its fleet. Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari emphasized the urgent need for these jets due to the changing defense landscape and to ensure optimal readiness against potential threats. He further stressed the importance of increasing indigenous production and boosting the private sector's role in defense manufacturing. Chaudhari called on domestic industries to contribute more actively, focusing on creating advanced aircraft. India’s defense sector has been undergoing significant reforms to meet modern requirements, and this push aims to improve self-reliance in defense production, alongside boosting the country’s global defense standing.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo's Équateur Province, a suspected malaria outbreak has resulted in 52 deaths and 943 reported illnesses. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, vomiting, and weight loss. Initial tests have ruled out Ebola and Marburg viruses. The World Health Organization is enhancing surveillance and collaborating with local health authorities to conduct further investigations. Some cases are believed to be linked to food poisoning. The outbreak was first identified on January 21, 2025, after children consumed a bat carcass, leading to concerns about potential zoonotic transmission. Efforts are underway to confirm the exact cause and prevent further spread. 

The Indian cricket team has received a big boost ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal as bowling coach Morne Morkel has rejoined the squad. Morkel had briefly left due to a personal emergency in South Africa but is now back in Dubai to assist the team. His return is expected to strengthen India’s bowling preparations and boost player confidence for the crucial knockout match. With India performing well in the tournament, Morkel’s presence adds to their momentum as they aim for the championship title.  

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with US President Donald Trump at the White House, emphasizing Britain’s commitment to defense. "We are putting Britain on a war footing," Starmer declared, announcing increased military spending by reallocating foreign aid funds. Trump, while expressing confidence in a peace deal for Ukraine, insisted that "Europe must take the lead" in security guarantees. The leaders also discussed a UK-US trade deal, focusing on finance and technology. Trump accepted an unprecedented second state visit invitation from King Charles, signaling strengthened US-UK relations.

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were found dead at their Santa Fe home under suspicious circumstances. A maintenance worker discovered their bodies alongside one of their dogs. Although no signs of foul play, gas leaks, or carbon monoxide poisoning were found, the situation prompted an investigation. Hackman, 95, appeared to have fallen, while Arakawa, 65, was found near prescription pills. Hackman’s career spanned six decades, with iconic roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven. The couple lived in Santa Fe for decades, where Hackman was a prominent figure. Authorities are still investigating the timeline of their deaths.

An avalanche hit Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, reportedly burying 57 workers in the Mana village. 10 workers managed to come out safely. The rescue operation is underway.State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), district administration, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) teams are on the spot.The India Meteorological Department (IMD)has predicted very heavy rain (up to 20 cm) over Uttarakhand till late night of February 28.

Manav Sharma, a 25-year-old TCS manager from Mumbai, died by suicide in Agra on February 24, 2025, after alleged marital harassment by his wife. Before his death, Manav recorded a 6-minute video expressing distress over the struggles men face in abusive relationships. He apologized to his family and requested greater awareness of men's emotional issues. Manav’s wife, Nikita, rejected the allegations, claiming his struggles were due to alcohol addiction and past suicide attempts. The family has filed a complaint, prompting an investigation. This case mirrors the suicide of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash, raising concerns about domestic abuse and mental health.