Punxsutawney Phil, the famous groundhog, has predicted six more weeks of winter for the United States as he gave his weather forecast in Pennsylvania. A large crowd gathered at Gobbler's Knob to witness the event, where the woodchuck saw his shadow, signaling a longer winter. The tradition, which dates back over a century with roots in European folklore, was made famous by the 1993 movie Groundhog Day. Despite his prediction, Phil's accuracy has been questioned, as he has been correct less than 50% of the time in past years.

Zakia Jafri, a human rights activist, has died at 86. She spent 20 years seeking justice for her husband, Ehsan Jafri, who was killed in the 2002 Gujarat riots. Ehsan, a Congress politician, was among 69 people killed in the Gulberg Society massacre. Zakia fought legal battles, trying to hold political leaders, including Narendra Modi, accountable. Courts dismissed her case, but she never lost hope. She passed away in Ahmedabad while staying with her daughter. Activists and politicians have paid tribute to her fight for justice. Her son said she still hoped for justice until the end.

Chinese fashion brand Shein is back in India after being banned in 2020. The app is now available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store under Reliance Retail. Shein was banned due to security concerns amid India-China tensions. Reliance partnered with Shein to bring back its affordable fashion. The app currently delivers in select cities, with plans to expand nationwide soon. Shein products were never banned, but the app was removed. Social media users have reacted with excitement. Shein offers free shipping and low prices, making it popular among young shoppers in India.

Ukraine says a Russian airstrike hit a boarding school in Sudzha, Kursk region, killing four people and injuring many others. The school was sheltering civilians preparing to evacuate. President Volodymyr Zelensky called Russia "a state devoid of civility." Ukraine claims the attack was deliberate, using a guided aerial bomb. Russia denies this and blames Ukraine for the strike. More than 80 people were rescued from the building. Kyiv had taken control of the area last year but said it had no plans to hold it. The BBC could not confirm if the attack was intentional.

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla spoke about MS Dhoni’s possible entry into politics. He believes Dhoni “can become a good politician” but says the decision is up to him. Shukla recalled asking Dhoni if he would contest the Lok Sabha elections. Dhoni’s reply was a firm “No, no, no.” Shukla also shared that Dhoni does not keep a mobile phone and prefers to stay away from the limelight. The former Indian captain retired from international cricket in 2019 but will play in IPL 2025. While Dhoni has no plans for politics now, the discussion may continue in the future.

US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs of 25% on Mexico and Canada, and 10% on China but excluded India, citing its lower trade deficit contribution of 3.2%. Trump justified the move, blaming Mexico and Canada for enabling fentanyl inflows and highlighting high trade deficits. Experts predict the tariffs could reduce US GDP by $55 billion and cause economic strain in China. India’s import tariff policies remain WTO-compliant, balancing domestic priorities. Analysts suggest Trump's trade policies could benefit India through trade diversions, enhancing economic opportunities. The tariffs took effect on February 1.

Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan, who bowled out Virat Kohli for 6 in the Ranji Trophy match, approached the cricket star for an autograph. Kohli graciously signed for him, acknowledging his talent. "Well bowled, keep working hard," Kohli reportedly told Sangwan. The young pacer had delivered a stunning delivery that sent Kohli’s off-stump flying, earning praise from cricket experts, including Ravichandran Ashwin. The moment highlighted Kohli's sportsmanship and Sangwan’s rising potential. Fans applauded Kohli's humility and Sangwan’s impressive performance. The Delhi vs. Railways match saw massive fan turnout due to Kohli’s participation.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced 25% tariffs on US goods worth 155 billion Canadian dollars. This move is in response to US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports. “Tariffs will have real consequences for the American people,” Trudeau said. He warned that Canada would also take non-tariff actions. Mexico has also announced retaliatory tariffs. Trump justified the tariffs as a measure to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Trudeau stated, “We don’t want this, but we will not back down.” The trade conflict is expected to impact both economies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the 2025 budget the most "middle-class friendly." He criticised Congress, saying, “If you were earning ₹12 lakh during Nehru Ji’s time, one-fourth of your salary would have gone as tax. Under Indira Ji, ₹10 lakh out of ₹12 lakh was taxed.” Modi added, “After yesterday’s budget, those earning ₹12 lakh will not have to pay a single rupee in tax.” He also announced 50,000 new Atal Tinkering Labs and 10,000 fellowships for Delhi youth. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman raised the tax-free income limit to ₹12 lakh, benefiting 6.3 crore taxpayers.

India has earned global recognition in the 2024/25 TasteAtlas awards, with six cities making it to the "100 Best Food Regions in the World." Mumbai secured the 5th spot, known for its vibrant street food scene. Amritsar ranked 43rd for its rich Punjabi flavors, while Delhi and Hyderabad were placed in the Top 50. Kolkata and Chennai also made the list, securing the 71st and 75th positions, respectively. India’s culinary diversity contributed to its 12th place ranking in the "100 Best Cuisines," while Naples, Italy, topped the list.