Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has requested access to sensitive IRS taxpayer data, including Social Security numbers and bank account information. This move has raised significant concerns among state attorneys general, who argue that such access poses cybersecurity risks and violates federal laws. In response, a federal judge has temporarily blocked DOGE from accessing these records while considering a preliminary injunction. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing legal challenges and debates over the balance between government efficiency and data privacy.

Harbhajan Singh downplayed the much-anticipated India-Pakistan match at the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, predicting it would be a one-sided game in India’s favor. Singh highlighted India's superior squad strength and Pakistan's recent inconsistencies. He pointed out that key Indian players are in strong form, while Pakistan's lineup lacks depth beyond Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Harbhajan also suggested Afghanistan could be a strong contender, alongside India, for the tournament. India is aiming for its third Champions Trophy title, while Pakistan is looking to defend its 2017 crown.  

Singapore’s opposition leader, Pritam Singh, has been convicted of lying under oath to a parliamentary committee, related to his handling of former lawmaker Raeesah Khan, who had lied to Parliament in a separate case. The trial comes as Singapore prepares for its next general election. Singh's Workers' Party holds nine out of 87 parliamentary seats. District Judge Luke Tan found evidence showing Singh’s direct involvement in guiding Khan to continue her false narrative. Prosecutors are seeking a fine of S$7,000 for each of Singh's two charges. Singh maintains his innocence.

Early Monday morning, a 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck Delhi-NCR at 5:36 am, with its epicenter near Durgabai Deshmukh College in Dhaula Kuan, at a depth of five kilometers. Residents reported a loud sound accompanying the tremors, prompting many to evacuate high-rise buildings in Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the situation, urging everyone to "stay calm" and remain vigilant for potential aftershocks, assuring that authorities are closely monitoring developments. Delhi Police also reached out via social media, expressing hope for residents' safety and providing emergency contact information. No immediate reports of damage or injuries have been received.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced support for US President Donald Trump’s controversial plan to remove Gaza’s population and resettle them in neighboring countries. After meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu said they were working on a “common strategy” for Gaza’s future. The UN has condemned forced displacement as illegal. Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war has killed over 48,200 people in Gaza, and a fragile ceasefire remains under threat. The US also resumed sending heavy bombs to Israel, while Hamas accused Israel of violating the truce with recent airstrikes in Rafah.

On February 17, 2025, former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, accompanied by his wife Akshata Murty and their two daughters, visited the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, India. The family arrived at the monument in the morning and spent approximately an hour exploring its majestic architecture and lush gardens. Sunak expressed admiration for the Taj Mahal, describing it as a "breathtaking testament to timeless love and artistry." This visit is part of the Sunak family's private tour of India, during which they have also planned to explore other cultural and historical sites across the country

The 38th National Games, held in Uttarakhand from January 28 to February 14, 2025, concluded with the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) leading the medal tally. SSCB secured a total of 121 medals, comprising 68 golds, 26 silvers, and 27 bronzes. Maharashtra followed closely with 201 medals (54 golds, 71 silvers, and 76 bronzes), while Haryana claimed third place with 153 medals (48 golds, 47 silvers, and 58 bronzes). Hosts Uttarakhand achieved a commendable sixth position, amassing 103 medals, including 24 golds. Notably, Bihar ended a 25-year gold medal drought, with athletes Payal, Khushboo Kumari, and Nikhath Khatoon winning the women's triple lawn bowls event. The Games featured over 10,000 athletes competing across 35 sports disciplines, showcasing India's diverse athletic talent.   

On February 17, 2025, at 6:35 AM IST, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck 93 kilometers northeast of Lobuche, Nepal. The tremors were strongly felt across Delhi-NCR and several regions of North India, including parts of Bihar. The epicenter was near Gokarneshwar, Nepal. While no significant damage or casualties have been reported, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Residents are advised to remain alert as aftershocks are possible in the coming hours.   

On February 16, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Ukraine and European nations will be included in any substantive negotiations to end the conflict initiated by Moscow. This statement comes as U.S. and Russian officials prepare to meet in Saudi Arabia, aiming to assess Russian President Vladimir Putin's commitment to peace. Despite initial concerns from European leaders about being excluded, Rubio assured that meaningful discussions would involve all relevant parties. Concurrently, U.S. officials have consulted European counterparts regarding potential troop contributions to enforce a future peace agreement. The upcoming days are expected to reveal the seriousness of Russia's intentions toward resolving the conflict.   

On February 15, 2025, a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station resulted in at least 18 fatalities, including 14 women and a 7-year-old child. The incident occurred around 8:00 PM as thousands of passengers, en route to the Maha Kumbh festival in Prayagraj, were informed of sudden platform changes, leading to panic and a deadly crush. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced an investigation into the tragedy.