Tesla is making a renewed effort to enter the Indian market after two previous attempts. Following CEO Elon Musk's recent meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the company plans to import vehicles produced at its Berlin plant and is exploring potential factory sites in India. This initiative aligns with India's March 2024 policy allowing electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers to import up to 40,000 fully assembled EVs over five years at a reduced customs duty of 15%, contingent upon a $500 million investment in local manufacturing. This move comes as Tesla faces significant sales declines in key markets, including a 59.5% drop in Germany and a 63.3% decrease in France in January 2025. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized Musk's plans to establish a factory in India, adding complexity to Tesla's international strategy.  

Pakistan all-rounder Khushdil Shah has expressed confidence in his team's ability to defeat India in their upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 clash, despite acknowledging India's strong lineup. Emphasizing that "every team is beatable," Shah believes that bringing their best performance will be key to overcoming their arch-rivals. Following a 60-run loss to New Zealand in their opening match, Pakistan faces a must-win situation to keep their tournament hopes alive. Shah also addressed criticism regarding his selection, urging fans to continue their support as the team aims to manage pressure and deliver a winning performance.   

Microsoft has introduced the Majorana 1 chip, the first quantum processor utilizing a Topological Core architecture. This innovation leverages topoconductors—materials capable of creating and controlling Majorana particles—to produce stable and scalable qubits, essential for practical quantum computing. The Majorana 1 chip aims to facilitate the development of quantum systems with up to a million qubits on a single, palm-sized chip, enabling solutions to complex industrial and societal challenges. This breakthrough is the result of nearly two decades of research and positions Microsoft at the forefront of quantum computing advancements. 

Dublin has finally seen sunlight after 11 consecutive days of overcast skies, equalling a record set in March 1969. Met Éireann confirmed that from February 8 to 18, Dublin Airport recorded zero sunshine, making it the longest dull spell in over 50 years. Locals, relieved by the return of the sun, flocked to Sandymount Beach to enjoy the bright weather. Ireland typically receives between 1,100 and 1,600 sunshine hours annually, with May and June being the sunniest months. The longest recorded sunless streak in Ireland remains 16 days, observed in 1956 and again in 2018-2019.

In a remarkable comeback, Mohammed Shami's 5 for 53 led India to a six-wicket win over Bangladesh in their Champions Trophy opener in Dubai. Shami's performance, following a 14-month injury hiatus, showcased his enduring prowess in ICC tournaments, bringing his tally to 60 wickets in 19 innings, surpassing Zaheer Khan's record. Bangladesh, initially struggling at 35/5, posted 228 thanks to Towhid Hridoy's resilient 100. India's chase was anchored by Shubman Gill's unbeaten 101, securing victory with 21 balls to spare. Shami's dedication during rehabilitation underscores his commitment to the sport. 

  The remains of four Israeli hostages, including Shiri Bibas and her two children, Ariel and Kfir, have been returned to Israel. Hamas claims they were killed in an Israeli airstrike. The United Nations rights chief condemned the public display of bodies in Gaza as a violation of international law. Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed sorrow and sought forgiveness for failing to protect citizens during the attack. Hamas has indicated readiness to release all remaining hostages if the Gaza ceasefire agreement advances to its second phase. Arab states have scheduled an emergency summit on March 4 to discuss post-war reconstruction in Gaza, opposing a US plan for the region. Additionally, regional Saudi meetings aim to consolidate an Arab response to the war and the US proposals.    

  Kashyap 'Kash' Patel has been confirmed as the ninth Director of the FBI, becoming the first person of Indian origin to hold the position. The US Senate approved his nomination by a 51-49 vote, following President Donald Trump's endorsement. Born to Gujarati parents in New York, Patel has a strong background in law and national security, having served as the National Security Advisor. At his Senate confirmation hearing, Patel expressed gratitude and committed to making the FBI "transparent, accountable, and committed to justice." He also shared personal experiences of racism during his youth.    

Facing a series of electoral setbacks, the Indian National Congress is revisiting its 1960s strategy by decentralizing decision-making to empower district units. This approach aims to rejuvenate grassroots connections and address internal divisions that have weakened the party's cohesion. Historically, the 1967 elections marked a significant decline for Congress, with losses in key states and the emergence of strong regional parties. By returning to a decentralized framework, the party seeks to rebuild its foundation and counteract prolonged political challenges.  

Indian conservationist Purnima Devi Barman has been included in Time magazine's Women of the Year 2025 list for her remarkable contributions to wildlife conservation. From Assam, Barman founded the "Hargilla Army," a group of women dedicated to protecting the greater adjutant stork, improving its conservation status from endangered to near-threatened. She also empowers local women by involving them in sustainable practices, including textile production. Barman has received numerous awards, including the Nari Shakti Puraskar and Whitley Award, and continues to inspire global conservation efforts.  

US President Donald Trump recently criticized the $21 million USAID fund allocated to India for 'voter turnout,' calling it a "kickback scheme" during a meeting with the Republican Governors Association. Trump questioned why taxpayer money was spent on India's election turnout, suggesting that the funds were misused. His remarks have sparked a political firestorm in India, with BJP officials accusing the money of supporting "deep-state assets," while Congress questioned the Modi government's handling of foreign aid. This controversy has reignited tensions between the BJP and Congress.