Sony is cutting 900 jobs at its PlayStation unit and closing a London studio due to a sluggish post-pandemic videogame market. This represents about 8% of the division's workforce globally. The company cites changes in industry dynamics for the layoffs. Sales expectations for the PlayStation 5 have been lowered, and no major franchise titles are planned for the next fiscal year. The global videogame market grew by only 0.6% in 2023. Sony's decision aligns with similar moves by Microsoft and Riot Games.

A deadly fire broke out in a crowded slum area of Bhayandar East, near Mumbai, Maharashtra. One person died, and several others were injured in the blaze, which started around 4:30 am. The fire quickly spread through narrow alleys, engulfing huts and shops. The cause of the fire is suspected to be waste dumped nearby. Twenty-four fire tenders were deployed to combat the flames, with the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation leading rescue efforts. The fire's origin in Azad Nagar remains under investigation.

The Sea Phase of Naval exercise Milan concluded aboard INS Vikrant in Vishakapatnam. 35 units, including ships, submarines, and aircraft, participated, with 13 ships and one aircraft from Friendly Foreign Countries. It marked the first time INS Vikrant and Vikramaditya, two naval aircraft carriers, participated together. The exercises covered surface, sub-surface, and air warfare, including operations against asymmetric threats. Activities included surface firings, anti-air shoots, anti-submarine warfare, air defense exercises, ship-borne helicopter operations, and seamanship evolutions. The closing ceremony facilitated interaction, exchange of views, and enhanced mutual understanding and interoperability among participating navies.

The BJP in Karnataka lodged a complaint accusing supporters of Rajya Sabha member Syed Nasir Hussain of chanting pro-Pakistan slogans at his victory declaration. However, Hussain denied hearing any such slogans and stated that only pro-India chants were raised. He called for a comprehensive investigation to uncover the truth. The BJP alleged Hussain's involvement in instigating the slogans, while Hussain emphasized the need for a fair inquiry to ascertain the facts.

In a recent poll by Rasmussen Reports, about 48% of Democrats expressed approval for finding another candidate to replace President Joe Biden in the upcoming US presidential elections. Michelle Obama emerged as the leading choice with 20% of the votes, followed by Vice President Kamala Harris. Obama has been urged to consider running, expressing concerns about democracy's fragility. Despite speculation, both Biden and Donald Trump are expected to compete in 2024, with Biden emphasizing his qualifications and Trump facing potential legal challenges.

Sri Lanka orders hundreds of thousands of Russians and Ukrainians to leave within two weeks due to the war. Immigration controller issues notice to tourism ministry, citing normalized flight situation. Over 288,000 Russians and 20,000 Ukrainians visited in last two years. President's office investigates notice, citing lack of cabinet approval. Concerns raised over extended stays and illegal businesses. Tourism minister reports complaints of unregistered Russian-run businesses, including those with "whites only" policies. Authorities conduct raids on such establishments. Social media backlash ensues.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) triumphs in Uttar Pradesh's Rajya Sabha elections, clinching 8 out of 10 seats, while Samajwadi Party (SP) secures the remaining two. Celebrations ensue as opposition candidates cross vote for BJP. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath felicitated after the victory. BJP leaders express confidence, foreseeing success in future elections. In Karnataka, Congress wins 3 out of 4 seats, with BJP exploring legal action due to cross voting. In Himachal Pradesh, BJP's Harsh Mahajan emerges victorious amid a tied vote, defeating Congress candidate Abhishek Manu Singhvi.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismisses French President Macron's suggestion of European/NATO ground troops in Ukraine, emphasizing agreement to avoid such escalation. Scholz highlights ongoing support for Ukraine, including potential procurement of weapons from non-European sources. Concerns persist over NATO involvement in direct conflict with Russia. Kremlin warns of inevitable conflict if troops deployed. European leaders, gathering in Paris, convey resolve against Russian aggression. Despite calls, German reluctance remains on supplying long-range missiles. Coalition member reiterates lack of discussion on troop deployment within Germany or with allies.

Hopes for a swift ceasefire in the Gaza conflict are dampened as both Hamas and Israeli officials dismiss Joe Biden's optimistic timeline. Hamas's Basem Naim states they haven't received a formal ceasefire proposal, labeling Biden's remarks 'premature.' Israeli officials express surprise, citing Hamas's 'excessive demands.' Biden's expectation of a truce by March 4 faces skepticism. As tensions rise with Ramadan approaching, desperate civilians in Gaza await relief. The proposed deal includes a 40-day military pause, prisoner exchanges, and humanitarian measures. The precarious situation challenges efforts to broker a comprehensive ceasefire before the holy month.

The Union Home Ministry has prolonged the ban on Jammu and Kashmir Jamaat-e-Islami for another five years, citing its involvement in activities threatening national security. Home Minister Amit Shah emphasizes zero-tolerance against terrorism and separatism, warning of severe consequences for those posing a threat. The initial declaration of Jamaat-e-Islami as an 'Unlawful Association' on February 28, 2019, led to the ban on its activities, accused of promoting separatism. The extension aligns with government efforts to curb such activities post Article 370 abrogation, emphasizing a tough stance on groups sympathetic to separatism in Jammu and Kashmir.