Odisha Police are gearing up for a decisive strike against lingering Maoist insurgents in the dense Gandhamardan hills, a notorious hideout spanning Bolangir and Bargarh districts near the Chhattisgarh border. Senior officials, including Anti-Naxal ADG Sanjeeb Panda, have vowed to eradicate the Naxal threat from the area by March 31, aligning with the state's ambitious goal to become completely Naxal-free.
Intelligence reports indicate a small group of Maoists has regrouped in the hills after a period of relative calm, raising alarms about potential cross-border activity. "Gandhamardan has been a Maoist stronghold since 2008, but we're closing in with coordinated operations," Panda stated during a recent meeting with local superintendents. The terrain's rugged forests have long shielded rebels, but intensified patrols aim to change that.
The offensive will deploy additional CRPF battalions alongside Odisha's Special Operations Group (SOG), District Voluntary Force (DVF), and precise intel-led teams. Tightened security along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border is also part of the strategy to prevent escapes or reinforcements. Past encounters here, like firefights and camp busts, underscore the risks involved.
Odisha has already neutralized Maoist presence in five districts—Nuapada, Nabarangpur, Malkangiri, Koraput, and Boudh—through surrenders and operations. In the last 70 days, 45 rebels have surrendered under a revamped policy offering rehabilitation benefits, even to Odia Maoists active outside the state. Similar drives target tri-junctions in Kandhamal, Rayagada, and Kalahandi next. Panda urged remaining insurgents to surrender, promising support for reintegration. Success here could pave the way for development in these remote areas, long hampered by violence.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.
The two-day U.S.–India Space Business Forum concluded on 11 February in Bengaluru, marking a significant step forward in bilateral space collaboration. Organized by the U.S. Consulate General in Chennai with support from the U.S.–India Strategic Partnership Forum, the gathering brought together more than 200 representatives from government bodies and leading industry players. As the centrepiece of the first-ever U.S. Trade Mission to India focused solely on commercial space, the forum hosted 23 senior executives from 14 major American space firms. They engaged directly with Indian stakeholders to identify areas of mutual cooperation.
Bengaluru, widely recognised as India’s Silicon Valley and a key aerospace hub, provided a fitting venue. With institutions such as ISRO and emerging private players like Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos, the city set the stage for discussions on collaborative ventures. Deliberations covered satellite production, launch capabilities, space-based analytics, and Earth observation systems. Regulatory policies, investment avenues, and technology sharing were also examined, aligning with India’s self-reliance goals under initiatives such as Make in India.
U.S. participants highlighted advanced technologies from companies including SpaceX affiliates, Lockheed Martin, and Boeing, focusing on reusable launch systems and small satellite networks. Indian representatives showcased achievements like the PSLV program and the forthcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. Public-private partnerships were a central theme. Discussions explored U.S.–India collaboration on large-scale initiatives such as the Bharatiya Antriksha Station and commercial lunar exploration, with potential to generate substantial trade value.
The forum reflected deepening strategic convergence between the two nations. With India’s space economy expected to reach 44 billion dollars by 2033 and the U.S. seeking dependable global partners, commitments were discussed for joint development in propulsion technologies and space situational awareness. More than 150 bilateral meetings took place during networking sessions, leading to preliminary agreements. Conversations spanned advanced technologies including hypersonic re-entry systems and AI-enabled mission design, supporting broader defence-space integration.
Officials from NASA’s commercial division, ISRO, IN-SPACe, and the U.S. Commercial Service outlined efforts to simplify visa norms and streamline export regulations, building upon the 2023 bilateral agreement on space situational awareness. Sustainability featured prominently, with discussions on orbital debris management, environmentally friendly propulsion, and responsible use of low Earth orbit resources. Participants advocated creating a joint regulatory framework for commercial space operations.
Industry leaders commended the open dialogue. A U.S. executive observed that India’s agility complements American scale, while Indian voices stressed the importance of technology localisation to strengthen national security. Talent collaboration was another focus. Given Bengaluru’s strong engineering ecosystem, proposals included joint training programs and internships to address expertise gaps in orbital dynamics and quantum sensing technologies.
The forum also addressed obstacles such as spectrum allocation, insurance challenges for mega-constellations, and geopolitical uncertainties in the Indo-Pacific region, highlighting the need for resilient supply chains. As proceedings concluded, USISPF announced plans to establish a working group to monitor progress, potentially leading to a structured 2026 roadmap similar to cooperation models seen in defence sectors. The U.S.–India Space Business Forum has positioned itself as a catalyst for expanded cooperation, signalling a future in which commercial space strengthens both economic growth and strategic stability for the two democracies.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.
The Patna Civil Court received another bomb threat on Thursday, a day after a similar email warning was sent. In response, a heavy police presence was deployed outside the court to maintain security. Anti-terrorism teams, local police, bomb disposal units, and dog squads launched a search operation across the court complex to check for any explosive materials.
Anshuman, an advocate at the court, said the District Bar Association (DBA) would convene to discuss measures to prevent such incidents in the future. He added that, based on the information received, the court would remain closed for the day. Calling the situation unfortunate, he questioned how judicial work could continue if such threats persist. He noted that repeated disruptions cause revenue losses for the government, create hardships for lawyers, and affect the general public. He also mentioned receiving phone information about a conspiracy to blow up the building.
On Wednesday, the court had received a bomb threat via email, reportedly sent around 1 am to the office of the District and Sessions Judge, claiming that RDX had been planted inside the premises. As a precaution, the court complex was evacuated and judicial proceedings were suspended. Entry of the general public was temporarily restricted.
Police, along with bomb disposal and dog squads, conducted a thorough search of the premises. Patna City Superintendent of Police (West) Bhanu Pratap Singh confirmed that a comprehensive search operation was underway and that further necessary steps were being taken. The Patna Civil Court has faced similar bomb threats in the past, and an investigation into the latest incident is ongoing.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
Iran remains open to diplomacy with the United States but is fully prepared to respond to any future military action, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview in Tehran. He stressed that only a diplomatic approach can resolve tensions, arguing that threats or attacks cannot stop technological progress.
Araghchi said Iran’s trust in Washington has weakened, recalling that previous negotiations were underway when Iran was attacked. He reaffirmed that Iran’s uranium enrichment program is peaceful and based on sovereign rights, with enrichment levels tied to civilian needs such as nuclear energy and medical isotope production. He said Iran is willing to guarantee it will not pursue nuclear weapons if there is mutual goodwill.
However, he ruled out any talks on Iran’s ballistic missile program or regional alliances, stating negotiations with the US would focus solely on nuclear issues. He added that Iran is ready to defend itself if diplomacy fails and warned that any new attack would prompt retaliation against US regional assets.
Araghchi also criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of pushing for wider conflict. Despite tensions, he suggested both Tehran and Washington show interest in avoiding war if negotiations are conducted without military pressure. Netanyahu met US envoys to discuss regional matters and recent Iran talks. President Donald Trump said negotiations appear promising but warned of serious consequences if Iran continues weapons development, while also considering increased military pressure. Netanyahu has urged expanding talks to cover Iran’s missile program and regional influence.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
Lando Norris set the fastest lap on the opening day of Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain, giving McLaren an early boost ahead of the 2026 season. Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, stayed close behind, hinting at a competitive battle between the top teams. Teams focused on evaluating their cars’ performance, reliability, and tire strategies. Norris’s pace highlights McLaren’s potential, while Verstappen’s consistent runs show that Red Bull remains a strong contender. Testing continues over the next few days as teams gather crucial data to prepare for the season opener, promising an intense and closely fought championship.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
At least nine people were killed and numerous others wounded in a mass shooting in the small British Columbia community of Tumbler Ridge. The violence began at a residence and continued at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where victims included both students and adults, making it one of the deadliest school shootings in Canadian history. The suspected shooter, an 18‑year‑old, was also found dead at the scene from what appeared to be a self‑inflicted injury. Authorities confirmed there is no ongoing threat as they continue to investigate the motive and circumstances behind the attack.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian
Google has revealed plans for a significant increase in its AI investments in Singapore, featuring the launch of Majulah AI – a collection of training and innovation initiatives aimed at developing an AI-ready workforce. Daniel Martin speaks with Ben King, Managing Director of Google Singapore, about how these efforts will help Singapore achieve its goal of becoming an AI leader and accelerate AI adoption across the nation.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
Keir Starmer’s prospects as prime minister took a hit after Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar demanded his resignation. While the cabinet continues to back him, his position appears secure—for the moment. Pippa and Kiran explore what could unfold next.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition secured a historic victory in Sunday’s (Feb 8) election, setting the stage for planned tax cuts that have rattled financial markets, as well as increased military spending to counter China. For insights into this outcome, Andrea Heng and Genevieve Woo consulted Dr. Lim Tai Wei, East Asia specialist and Professor at Soka University, Japan.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
