As global and national events unfold, major developments are shaping international relations, politics, and economies. From PM Modi’s high-stakes AI Summit in France to political realignments in India, and from record-breaking gold prices to traffic chaos at the Maha Kumbh, here’s a look at the most crucial stories making headlines today.
PM Modi, President Macron Attend Welcome Dinner in Paris Ahead of AI Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined French President Emmanuel Macron and other global leaders for a working dinner at the Elysee Palace in Paris. High-profile attendees included US Vice President JD Vance, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. During his three-day visit to France, PM Modi will co-chair the AI Action Summit with Macron and engage in bilateral discussions focusing on technology, trade, and strategic cooperation.
Arvind Kejriwal Meets Bhagwant Mann, Punjab AAP MLAs Amid Speculated Rift
Following AAP’s crushing defeat in the Delhi elections, party chief Arvind Kejriwal will meet Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP MLAs to address concerns and discuss the party’s future strategy. Speculation about a rift within AAP’s Punjab unit has grown, especially after Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa suggested Mann could switch to BJP. AAP’s hold on Punjab is now crucial, with state elections due in 2027.
Centre Resumes Talks with Kuki, Meitei Groups After Biren Singh’s Resignation
With Biren Singh stepping down as Manipur CM, the BJP-led Centre has intensified efforts to bring Kuki and Meitei communities to the negotiation table. BJP leader Sambit Patra has contacted Kuki MLAs and party representatives to discuss possible resolutions. Meanwhile, Kuki organizations demand Union Territory status to protect their minority interests, as the region remains deeply divided due to ongoing ethnic conflict.
India’s Longest Traffic Jam: 350 Km Gridlock Near Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh
With an unprecedented influx of 40 crore devotees at the Maha Kumbh, traffic congestion has reached alarming levels on NH-30, causing a 350-km-long traffic jam. The Uttar Pradesh government has imposed a ‘No Vehicle Zone’ in Prayagraj to ease movement ahead of the Maghi Purnima Snan on February 12. CM Yogi Adityanath has instructed authorities to ensure smooth crowd management.
FIR Filed Against Ranveer Allahbadia Over ‘Obscene’ Podcast Remarks
Popular YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia faces legal trouble as the Guwahati Police filed an FIR against him and other influencers for promoting obscenity on the show ‘India’s Got Latent’. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that several social media influencers, including Ashish Chanchlani and Samay Raina, have been named in the complaint. Brands have started distancing themselves from Allahbadia following the controversy.
Gold Hits ₹88,500 Amid Rupee Drop, US Tariff Concerns
Gold prices soared to ₹88,500 per 10 grams, reaching an all-time high as the rupee fell to 87.95 against the US dollar. The price surge was fueled by US President Donald Trump’s announcement of new 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, triggering inflation concerns. Meanwhile, heavy buying by jewelers and investors has also contributed to the rally.
EU Warns Retaliation If Trump Imposes New Trade Tariffs
The European Commission has declared that it will retaliate immediately if the US proceeds with new import tariffs on steel and aluminum. Trump’s “reciprocal tariffs” plan, which proposes matching duties imposed by other countries, has triggered global economic concerns. EU officials argue that such tariffs would hurt American consumers and businesses while escalating trade tensions.
UK MP Sparks Row Over Bengali Signboard at London Tube Station
A British MP, Rupert Lowe, has questioned the presence of Bengali signage at Whitechapel station in London, arguing that English should be the sole language on public signs. Billionaire Elon Musk supported Lowe’s views, adding to the controversy. The signage was originally installed in 2022 to honor the city’s Bangladeshi community.
Gulf of Mexico Renamed ‘Gulf of America’ Following Trump’s Executive Order
Google Maps has officially updated the Gulf of Mexico to ‘Gulf of America’ for users in the United States after an executive order by President Trump. The renaming has drawn mixed reactions, with critics calling it a political move to assert American identity, while Trump supporters hailed it as a symbol of national pride.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Champions Trophy Fate to Be Decided Today
India’s ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the Champions Trophy 2025 will be confirmed today. Bumrah, sidelined due to a back injury, recently underwent scans at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence. Reports suggest that Harshit Rana is the frontrunner to replace him if he is deemed unfit. Today is also the deadline for teams to finalize squads without ICC approval.