A software malfunction in the onboard computer has been identified as the cause of the TEJAS fighter jet incident on 7 February 2026, prompting a full software update across all 35 TEJAS aircraft currently in service with the Indian Air Force (IAF), according to The Tribune. During the incident at a forward base along India’s western frontier, the single-seater jet veered off the runway into a mud ditch during takeoff. The pilot survived but sustained injuries. Subsequent inspections confirmed that no mechanical or metallurgical issues contributed to the mishap, pinpointing the problem entirely to the aircraft’s software.
Sources indicate that the IAF, in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has already addressed the glitch. A new software version is undergoing trials, with a fleetwide rollout planned to prevent recurrence. While such software issues are not uncommon in advanced avionics, they are typically resolved quickly through updates. Checks included undercarriage metallurgy, electromagnetic braking systems, and core software protocols to ensure no additional vulnerabilities existed.
HAL had initially referred to the February incident as a “minor technical event on the ground” rather than a crash, stressing its ongoing coordination with the IAF and highlighting the TEJAS’s strong safety record among comparable fighter jets worldwide. An ongoing IAF Court of Inquiry will examine the sequence of events in detail, likely guiding enhanced operational protocols for indigenous platforms like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
The February mishap is the third TEJAS-related accident since the aircraft’s induction in 2016. The first occurred in March 2024 near Jaisalmer when a jet crashed after a firepower demonstration, with the pilot ejecting safely. The second, in November 2025 at the Dubai Air Show, resulted in the death of Wing Commander Namansh Syal during aerobatic maneuvers. These incidents underscore ongoing challenges despite the platform’s operational maturity.
Of the 40 TEJAS MK-1 jets ordered, HAL has yet to deliver two, leaving the IAF with 38 prior to recent setbacks. Two aircraft have been lost to crashes, and the February incident aircraft’s future—repair or write-off—is still under review. Delays also affect the TEJAS MK-1A variant, of which 180 units are ordered. Deliveries are running two years behind schedule. This upgraded variant is expected to feature improved engines, radars, and electronic warfare systems, essential for strengthening IAF squadrons amid aging legacy fleets.
The software fix comes at a critical time for India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, as TEJAS is a key indigenous aerospace asset. However, repeated incidents could undermine confidence in HAL’s delivery schedules. The IAF’s thorough post-incident procedures demonstrate robust fleet management, yet timely MK-1A inductions and stable software systems will be crucial to maintaining operational readiness along contested borders. Experts expect the inquiry’s findings to refine risk mitigation strategies and may lead to the integration of AI-based diagnostics for real-time detection of software anomalies in future updates.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.
Edward Norton will be honored at the Los Angeles–Italia Festival with a special screening of Barry Alexander Brown’s documentary Fasting and the Longevity Revolution, Variety reported. The recognition will take place during the festival’s annual pre-Oscars celebration, highlighting Hollywood’s cultural connections with Italy, from March 8–14 at Hollywood’s TCL Chinese Theatre.
Norton will share the stage with Brown, known for his long-time collaboration as an editor with Spike Lee; Italian-American biologist and nutrition expert Valter Longo; and social impact producer Chiara Tilesi. Together, they will discuss the Mediterranean diet and the link between mindful nutrition and quality of life, as noted in Variety.
Founded and produced by Pascal Vicedomini, the L.A.-Italia Festival is backed by Italy’s Ministry of Culture and other organizations. This year’s program includes the U.S. premiere of the Anna Magnani biopic Anna: The Untold Story, directed by and starring Monica Guerritore. Additional screenings feature Italian hits such as Buen Camino starring Checco Zalone, Ohi Vita by Pio and Amedeo, and La vita va così by Riccardo Milani. The festival will also honor Italian singer-songwriter and producer Tony Renis, and celebrate the 50th anniversary of Bernardo Bertolucci’s epic Novecento, starring Robert De Niro and Gérard Depardieu.
Closing the event will be the FIFA World Cup documentary Two Billion Hearts, directed by Brazil’s Murilo Salles and narrated by Liev Schreiber, ahead of the 2026 tournament hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The festival continues to highlight the intersection of Italian culture, cinema, and global events, providing a platform for cross-cultural exchange and celebrating Italy’s influence on Hollywood storytelling.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited the residence of his father, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah, on Thursday after an assassination attempt at a wedding in Jammu. The police confirmed that an armed man tried to shoot Farooq Abdullah during a marriage celebration at Royal Park in Greater Kailash, Jammu, on Wednesday.
According to authorities, the assailant, identified as Kamal Singh, a resident of Purani Mandi, Jammu, carried a loaded pistol. The National Security Guard (NSG) personnel assigned to Farooq Abdullah acted swiftly to prevent the attack. The firearm used in the attempt was recovered, and the accused has been taken into custody. Investigations are ongoing, and police have confirmed that proper legal proceedings are being initiated.
Omar Abdullah called the incident an assassination attempt and raised concerns over how the attacker managed to get so close despite his father being under Z+ NSG security. He wrote on X that Allah’s mercy ensured his father’s safety. He explained that while the assailant was within firing range, the close protection team successfully deflected the shot and prevented a tragedy. Omar also highlighted that the circumstances raise serious questions about security protocols and how someone could approach a former CM under the highest protection.
Nasir Aslam Wani, advisor to the Jammu and Kashmir CM, confirmed that no injuries occurred in the incident. He was present at the venue when the firing took place. Authorities continue to investigate the case, ensuring that all angles are examined to prevent any future threats. The prompt response of the NSG personnel ensured that Farooq Abdullah remained unharmed, and the swift action of law enforcement led to the apprehension of the accused. The incident has raised concerns about security at high-profile events and emphasized the importance of vigilance, even under maximum protection.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
The Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned until 12 noon on Thursday due to protests and sloganeering by Opposition MPs. Speaker Om Birla faced heavy protests upon returning to the House and urged the INDIA bloc MPs to allow the Question Hour to proceed. He emphasized the importance of Question Hour in Parliamentary proceedings, stating that MPs could raise their concerns and hold the government accountable during this time. Birla added that he would also share his views on the discussions of the past two days at 12 noon, asking, “Do you not want the Question Hour to function?”
The Opposition has been pressing for a discussion on the reported commercial LPG shortage in the country, exacerbated by the conflict in West Asia. Earlier in the day, Congress leaders, led by Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, continued their protests in Parliament over nationwide LPG shortages. The crisis has affected several regions, with restaurants in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, switching to induction cooking due to disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz caused by the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Om Birla returned to the Lok Sabha as Speaker after the no-confidence motion against him was defeated through a voice vote. On Wednesday, the House saw noisy scenes as Congress members protested against Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks about Rahul Gandhi. The Home Minister had responded to a two-day debate on a resolution moved by Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, which was marked by sharp exchanges between the Opposition and ruling benches. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, presiding over the House, instructed Jawed to speak only after Congress members returned to their seats. Amid continued sloganeering, Pal called for a voice vote, and the resolution was defeated.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Sansad TV.
A Thai cargo ship bound for India’s Kandla port was set on fire after being attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, with 20 crew members rescued and three missing. India condemned attacks on commercial shipping, stressing the need to protect civilian crews. Iran’s IRGC claimed responsibility, striking the Thai ship Mayuree Naree and a Liberian-flagged vessel. Two other ships sustained minor damage. Currently, 28 Indian vessels with 778 crew are stranded in the Persian Gulf, with authorities monitoring their safety and coordinating rescue efforts.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from AFP.
In Singapore, mental health professionals are noticing a small but increasing number of patients showing delusions, paranoia, or emotional dependence seemingly connected to frequent AI chatbot use. Although “AI psychosis” is not an official medical diagnosis, clinicians acknowledge that the issue is genuine. How does extensive interaction with AI blur the boundaries between reality and reinforcement? Who is most vulnerable, and what signs should families be aware of? Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman discuss these questions with Dr. Amelia Sim, Senior Consultant at the Department of Psychosis, Institute of Mental Health.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
On Tuesday morning, the prime minister revealed that Australia will be deploying aircraft, missiles, and personnel to the Gulf amid ongoing conflict in the region. However, Anthony Albanese insists this does not imply that Australia is participating in the war or officially at war. Reged Ahmad discusses with Josh Butler whether Australia is being drawn into what he calls Trump’s “war of choice.”
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian
After days of uncertainty, five members of the Iranian women’s football team were officially granted protection in Australia by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke early Tuesday morning. The remaining players are still being monitored by officials as they make their way to the airport, with the possibility of returning to Iran. Women’s football journalist Samantha Lewis talks with Nour Haydar about the behind-the-scenes efforts that ensured the women could stay in Australia, the prospects for other players, and what the next steps might be.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
Oil prices have jumped significantly as tensions in the Middle East intensify, with concerns over potential supply disruptions pushing crude prices up by double digits. If this upward trend persists, rising energy costs could reignite inflation and affect transportation, manufacturing, and household expenses globally. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman examine how various countries are stockpiling oil, diversifying their supplies, and managing the impact of higher prices, including insights from Vandana Hari, Founder of Vanda Insights.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
