Shinde rejects BJP’s cabinet role offer, pushes for Mahayuti convener position: Sources

An empowered committee tasked with enhancing the Indian Air Force's capacity recommends private sector collaboration with public sector units and DRDO to achieve 'Atmanirbharta'. Defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh presented the report to defence minister Rajnath Singh, highlighting key thrust areas for capability enhancement. The report emphasizes the need for private sector support alongside DPSUs and DRDO, with a clear plan of action to be followed up in a time-bound manner. Full Article

Former Mumbai Maidan cricket star and Ranji Trophy stalwart, Padmakar Shivalkar, passed away at 84 due to age-related issues, not having played for the national team despite being considered one of the best players. Known as Paddy sir, he was a left-arm spinner who took 569 wickets in 124 First-class matches for Mumbai, holding the record for being their highest wicket-taker. Shivalkar received posthumous tributes from the Mumbai Cricket Association, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath...

Russian forces advanced less on Ukrainian territory in February compared to previous months, according to an AFP analysis of ISW data. Moscow's advancement measured 389 square kilometers in February, a decrease from the 431 square kilometers in January, 476 square kilometers in December 2024, and a peak of 725 square kilometers in November. This data shows a gradual reduction in Russian territorial gains over the past few months. Full Article

The Rajasthan Intelligence arrested Railways official Bhawani Singh in Bikaner for spying on behalf of Pakistan after being honey-trapped by a woman from a neighbouring country. Singh shared sensitive army information with ISI agents in exchange for money, maintaining regular contact through social media. The investigation revealed his continuous communication with Pakistani agents and divulging intelligence secrets. Full Article

The Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army conducted a month-long live-firing exercise featuring T-90 tanks to enhance combat preparedness and validate armoured warfare strategies in varied operational scenarios. The exercise focused on strengthening high-altitude warfare capabilities, integrating advanced technologies, and emphasizing high-altitude operational preparedness to reinforce the Army's combat readiness. Key aspects included firing advanced ammunition and guided missiles, integrating drones for surveillance, and conducting man-machine teaming drills to enhance crew coordination and battle readiness....

An Indian woman, Shahzadi Khan, facing a death sentence in the UAE, was executed on February 15, 2025, for allegedly killing a four-month-old child in Abu Dhabi. The Indian embassy received official communication about her execution on February 28, with her cremation scheduled for March 5, 2025. Khan's father had sought information on her legal status, and the court called it a "sad and unfortunate" incident after the Ministry's submissions. Full Article