Former President Donald Trump pledges automatic Green Cards for foreign students graduating from US colleges, aiming to retain talent and prevent them from contributing overseas, particularly in India and China. Softening his previous anti-immigrant stance, Trump advocates for a merit-based immigration system in light of the upcoming presidential election. Highlighting the potential economic benefits, Trump's proposal targets graduates in STEM fields to bolster US innovation and competitiveness. His shift in policy contrasts sharply with past immigration restrictions, signaling a strategic appeal to wealthy donors and tech industry support.

Ukraine has reported a significant escalation in Russian attacks on its energy facilities, marking the eighth assault in three months. The latest overnight strikes targeted multiple regions, with Ukrainian air defence intercepting numerous missiles and drones. Damage includes injuries to energy workers, equipment destruction, and residential impacts in Ivano-Frankivsk. President Zelensky highlighted Russia's sustained efforts, severely impacting electricity generation. With ongoing reliance on EU energy imports amid shortages, Ukraine faces frequent blackouts to safeguard critical services. Calls intensify for enhanced air defence support from allies to protect against future assaults.

Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland stumbled over a question about why the government is honoring Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani separatist who was on the no-fly list and had his bank accounts frozen before his death. Despite past actions against him, Nijjar was recently paid tribute in Parliament. Freeland failed to explain the paradox, instead emphasizing the solemn anniversary of his death and condemning his murder on Canadian soil. She praised Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's stance after the assassination, calling it necessary but challenging. The exchange has gone viral on social media, raising questions about the government's stance on Nijjar's activities.

In a stark irony, Delhi Police used water cannons to disperse BJP workers protesting the city's water crisis outside the Delhi Jal Board office. The protest, led by Ramesh Bidhuri, highlighted the acute water shortage in several areas due to reduced Yamuna River levels and technical issues at treatment plants. Social media users condemned the police's actions, pointing out the absurdity of using water cannons during a water crisis. The crisis has left many without water supply, forcing them to rely on tankers and borewells. The incident has sparked outrage and raised questions about the authorities' handling of the situation.

Singer Lucky Ali has lodged a complaint with Karnataka Lokayukta against IAS officer Rohini Sindhuri, alleging land grabbing involving her husband and brother-in-law. Ali claims they misused state resources to encroach upon land illegally. This follows earlier social media posts by Ali highlighting similar concerns. Sindhuri, previously involved in a public feud with IPS officer D Roopa Moudgil, faces mounting legal challenges. The complaint adds to existing controversies surrounding Sindhuri's tenure. Investigations are underway amid heightened scrutiny over the allegations.

Sanju Samson may replace Shivam Dube in India's playing XI against Bangladesh on Saturday. Dube's poor form, scoring just 44 runs in four innings, has prompted the team management to consider a change. Samson's ability to tackle spinners and pacers equally well makes him a strong contender to take Dube's place. With Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya already in the lineup, Samson's inclusion would add more depth to India's batting. Samson's power-hitting ability would also be an asset on the heavy outfields in Antigua. A final call is expected before the match.

Inspired by India's INDI-Alliance success, Donald Trump aims to exploit a divided Democratic vote in the upcoming US Presidential Election. With Robert F. Kennedy Jr. entering as an Independent, siphoning off Biden's support, Trump hopes to consolidate Republican votes. Legal battles loom, as Democrats attempt to block RFK's candidacy, mirroring past efforts against Trump. Polls show Trump leading Biden in a head-to-head matchup, with RFK gaining significant traction among disenchanted Democrats. As the race intensifies, the dynamics between the three candidates could determine the election outcome.

Acharya Laxmikant Dixit, the priest who consecrated the Ayodhya Ram temple, has died at 86. He had been ill for several days. His last rites will be held at Manikarnika Ghat. Dixit, a respected scholar, led the January ceremony attended by Prime Minister Modi. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute to Dixit, acknowledging his contributions to Sanskrit and Indian culture. Adityanath praised Dixit's service and offered condolences to his followers. Dixit's passing is a significant loss to the spiritual community, and his legacy will be remembered.

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir expressed his biggest regret in cricket, lamenting not completing India's chase in the 2011 ODI World Cup final against Sri Lanka. "I wish I had finished that game. It was my job to finish the game, rather than leaving someone to finish the game," Gambhir said during a 'Rise To Leadership' seminar. Despite his pivotal 97-run contribution, he acknowledged the desire to rewrite history by scoring the winning runs. India eventually won with MS Dhoni's iconic six, securing their second World Cup title. Gambhir, now eyeing India's head coach role, remains committed to cricket development.

YouTuber Maxtern, aka Sagar Thakur, has accused the makers of Bigg Boss OTT 3 of replacing him with viral sensation Chandrika Gera, also known as the "vada pav girl". Maxtern claimed he was in talks with the show's makers in 2023 but was later dropped. He expressed his disappointment in a video on Instagram, saying he understands the need for a wide fan following, but feels replaced unfairly. Maxtern's allegations have sparked controversy around the show's selection process. The third season of Bigg Boss OTT premiered on Friday with a new set of contestants, excluding Maxtern.