Elon Musk has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for his contributions to free speech. European Parliament member Branko Grims confirmed the nomination, citing Musk’s defense of fundamental rights and global dialogue. A Norwegian MP, Marius Nilsen, had also nominated Musk in 2024 for his role in fostering open communication. Grims shared a confirmation email from the Nobel Committee, thanking co-proposers. "Musk has done more for free speech in the third millennium than anyone else," he said. The nomination has sparked global debate over Musk’s influence on modern discourse.

Virat Kohli’s much-anticipated Ranji Trophy return ended in heartbreak as he was bowled for 6 by Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan at Arun Jaitley Stadium. Fans queued from 3 AM to watch the Indian superstar but were left stunned as his off-stump was shattered. Many exited the stadium after his dismissal. Kohli, struggling for form, had a tough Test season, prompting BCCI to mandate domestic participation. He will aim for redemption in the second innings. Delhi, led by Ayush Badoni, faces a crucial battle. Supporters remain hopeful for a classic Kohli comeback.

Investigators recovered black boxes from the American Airlines flight that collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington DC’s Reagan Airport, killing 67. Divers searching the Potomac River have retrieved 28 bodies. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is analyzing flight data. Reports indicate only one air traffic controller was on duty, raising staffing concerns. President Trump speculated on hiring standards and ended diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices in aviation. China confirmed two nationals among the victims, while Russia mourned its citizens. A preliminary NTSB report is expected in 30 days.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday took a dig at the Opposition, stating that for the first time since 2014, no "foreign forces" attempted to interfere before a Parliament session. Addressing the Budget session, he emphasized that the Union Budget will pave the way for a "Viksit Bharat" by 2047, focusing on youth, women empowerment, and investment. He also invoked Goddess Lakshmi, praying for prosperity for the poor and middle class. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Budget on Saturday, following the Economic Survey. The session will be held in two phases, from Jan 31 to Feb 13 and Mar 10 to Apr 4.

Donald Trump warned BRICS nations, including India, against replacing the U.S. dollar, threatening 100% tariffs on those attempting to create an alternative currency. In a TruthSocial post, Trump said the U.S. would demand a commitment from BRICS members to avoid backing any currency against the dollar. The warning follows Russia’s 2024 statement supporting national currencies over the dollar. Trump also pledged 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico and 10% on China over fentanyl concerns. As BRICS discussions on currency alternatives gain momentum, Trump's stance highlights growing geopolitical tensions.

Tata Steel has become India’s first company to develop hydrogen-compliant pipes, a major step in the country’s clean energy transition. The pipes, processed at Tata Steel’s Khopoli plant using steel from Kalinganagar, meet global hydrogen transport standards. The company conducted hydrogen qualification tests in Italy, ensuring the pipes can handle 100% pure hydrogen under 100-bar pressure. Tata Steel VP Prabhat Kumar said the achievement aligns with India’s National Hydrogen Mission. This milestone comes months after Ratan Tata’s death, with Noel Tata now leading Tata Trusts. Tata Group’s innovation continues to drive India’s industrial growth.

India’s Budget Session began with President Droupadi Murmu addressing Parliament, outlining the government's vision. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Economic Survey 2024-25, assessing the economy’s performance and future outlook. The government has listed 16 Bills for discussion, including the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill. Sitharaman will present the first full Budget of Modi 3.0 on Saturday, with expectations of tax reforms. The session will have 27 sittings, concluding on April 4, with discussions on the President’s address set for February 3-4 in Lok Sabha and February 3-6 in Rajya Sabha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the Washington DC plane crash that left 67 people feared dead. An American Airlines jet with 64 passengers collided mid-air with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport, plunging into the Potomac River. “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the tragic collision. We stand in solidarity with the people of the United States,” Modi said, tagging US President Donald Trump. Investigators from the NTSB and FAA are probing the disaster, which occurred in one of the world’s most restricted airspaces near the White House and Capitol.

American Airlines plane collided with a military helicopter in Washington DC on Wednesday night, leaving 67 dead. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash and will release a preliminary report within 30 days. President Donald Trump expressed condolences, blaming air traffic control hiring practices but provided no evidence. The helicopter's location and angle of flight are key areas of focus. Authorities confirm that no one survived the crash, which involved 64 passengers on the plane and 3 on the helicopter. The identities of the victims will be revealed by the DC medical examiner.

Thousands of pilgrims are stranded in long traffic jams on roads leading to Prayagraj after Uttar Pradesh imposed a traffic ban to ease congestion at the Maha Kumbh Mela. The measures, which include sealing city borders and banning vehicles, follow a deadly stampede that killed 30 people and injured 60. Devotees, including women and children, are facing severe hardships, with no food, water, or shelter. Despite efforts to provide aid, many are forced to sleep in the open or walk long distances. The restrictions will remain in effect until February 4.