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World News / International

India to purchase additional 31 Rafale fighter jets from France

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India to purchase

India is set to expand its fleet of Rafale fighter jets by acquiring 31 more carrier-based aircraft from France, according to a report by Militarni.

Under the existing MRFA program, India had already planned 114 Rafale jets.

With the new order, the total number of Rafale jets in India’s fleet will rise to 145.

Reliance Defence and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will manufacture the airframe domestically, while France will provide certain components and the production rights for advanced AASM weapons.

In 2016, India signed an intergovernmental deal with France for 36 Rafale jets worth €7.87 billion, which have already been fully delivered.

In 2025, India ordered 26 Rafale M jets specifically for the Indian Navy.

The latest expansion demonstrates India’s continued focus on modernizing its air power and strengthening its defense capabilities in the region.

Pakistan team management considers bench strength changes after loss to India

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Pakistan team management

Following a humiliating defeat to India in the T20 World Cup, the Pakistan cricket team management is reportedly disappointed with the performance of senior players and is considering changes ahead of the next mach.

Sources indicate that captain Babar Azam and fast bowler Shaheen Afridi could be rested in the upcoming match to give opportunities to other players from the bench.

Possible Team Changes

For the crucial clash against Namibia on February 18, the management is evaluating two to three changes in the playing XI.

The move aims to strengthen bench depth and give lesser-used players a chance to perform on the big stage.

Match Importance

Pakistan must beat Namibia to secure a spot in the Super Eight stage of the tournament, making the match a “do-or-die” scenario. Even if the game is affected by rain, Pakistan will still advance to the Super Eights.

The management’s strategy highlights a push to balance experience with fresh talent, addressing concerns over senior players’ inconsistent performances in the tournament so far.

Earlier, in a high-stakes ICC T20 World Cup group match, India defeated Pakistan by 61 runs to secure a place in the Super Eight stage. The match was played at Colombo’s Premadasa Stadium.

Pakistan captain Salman Agha won the toss and invited India to bat first. Notably, the two captains did not shake hands at the toss.

India posted 175/7 in their allotted 20 overs.

Opener Abhishek Sharma was dismissed for a duck by Salman Agha in the first over.

Eshan Kishan scored 77 off 40 balls before being bowled by Saim Ayub.

Saim Ayub also dismissed Tilak Varma (25) and Hardik Pandya (0) in the 15th over.

Indian captain Surya Kumar Yadav made 32 before being out off Usman Tariq, while other contributions included Dubey (27) and Axar Patel (0).

Pakistan’s Saim Ayub claimed three wickets, Usman Tariq took one, and both Shahin Afridi and Salman Agha picked one each. One player was run out.

Chasing 176, Pakistan was bundled out for 114 in 18 overs.

Top scorer: Usman Khan (44)

Other contributions: Shadab Khan (14), Faheem Ashraf (10)

India’s bowling highlights included Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, and Axar Patel taking two wickets each, while Tilak Varma and Kuldeep Yadav claimed one apiece.

Team Changes

Pakistan fielded the same playing XI as before: Saeem Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Usman Khan, Shadab Khan, Muhammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shahin Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Usman Tariq.

India made two changes, bringing in Abhishek Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav into their playing XI.

The win ensures India’s progression to the Super Eight stage, leaving Pakistan’s campaign under pressure.

Pakistani host Tabish Hashmi trolls national cricket team

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Pakistani host Tabish

Renowned Pakistani host and comedian Tabish Hashmi took a humorous dig at the national cricket team following Pakistan’s heavy defeat to India in the T20 World Cup.

During his television program, Hashmi playfully criticized Pakistani players while also taking light-hearted jabs at the Indian cricket team and board. In a viral clip from the show, he remarked, “News is what shouldn’t happen; what happens all the time isn’t called news—and today was just such a day.”

He referenced commentators Mohammad Amir, Rashid Latif, and Ahmed Shehzad, saying, “They predicted what would happen, and indeed the unexpected happened elsewhere—like the USA defeating Namibia.”

Hashmi also mocked the national excitement over India’s win, noting that while the victory was celebrated in India, Pakistanis have become accustomed to such outcomes and were largely unfazed.

In a tongue-in-cheek segment, he applauded players Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Shadab Khan for their underwhelming performances, highlighting the comedic approach to the team’s loss.

His commentary, blending satire with cricket analysis, quickly went viral on social media, generating laughs and discussions among fans.

UK plans social media ban for under-16s, moves to regulate AI Bots

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UK plans

The UK government is preparing to introduce an Australian-style ban on social media use for children under 16 as early as this year, while also moving to close regulatory gaps surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer last month launched a formal consultation on restricting social media access for under-16s, signaling a tougher stance on online safety. The move comes amid growing concerns about the impact of digital platforms and AI-driven tools on young users.

AI Bots: A Regulatory Gap

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall highlighted what she described as a loophole in Britain’s Online Safety Act 2023, noting that the law does not currently cover children’s interactions with AI chatbots in the same way it regulates social media platforms.

Kendall said both she and the prime minister are concerned about the increasing influence of AI systems on children and teenagers.

“I am concerned about these AI chatbots — as is the prime minister — about the impact that’s having on children and young people,” she stated, warning that some minors are forming one-to-one relationships with AI systems that could pose safety risks.

The government is expected to outline its formal proposals before June.

Wider European Push

The UK is not alone in seeking tighter controls. Several European nations — including France, Spain, Greece, Slovenia and Czech Republic — are also pushing for stricter regulations to shield children from online harm.

Additional Measures Under Consideration

Beyond the proposed age-based social media ban, the government is considering several new safeguards based on public consultation feedback:

Granting investigators automatic powers to restrict and preserve a deceased child’s social media and online data to secure key evidence.

Limiting “stranger pairing” features on gaming consoles that allow children to connect with unknown individuals.

Blocking the sending and receiving of nude images on children’s devices.

The proposed changes are expected to be introduced as amendments to existing crime and child-protection legislation.

If enacted, the measures would represent one of the most significant overhauls of online safety laws in the UK, reflecting mounting global pressure to better protect children in the digital age.

Saudi Arabia gears up to welcome Ramadan 1447 Hijri

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Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: Preparations to welcome the holy month of Ramadan 1447 Hijri are in full swing across Saudi Arabia, with authorities completing extensive arrangements to host millions of worshippers.

According to Saudi media reports, government-level preparations have reached their peak, ensuring a grand reception for the “Guests of Allah.” As in previous years, banners reading “Ahlan wa Sahlan Ya Ramadan” have been displayed across cities, while streets and neighborhoods have been illuminated with decorative lights.

Major roads, residential areas, and key landmarks have been adorned with colorful lanterns and billboards featuring verses from the Holy Qur’an and Hadith.

 Numerous religious, educational, and reformative programs have also been organized to help worshippers make the most of the blessed month.

Large-scale Iftar gatherings are being arranged, as providing Iftar during Ramadan is considered a highly rewarding act.

The most vibrant scenes are being witnessed in Mecca and Medina, where streets, alleys, and prominent sites have been beautifully decorated in anticipation of the holy month.

Millions of Muslims from around the world are expected to travel to Masjid al-Haram and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi for Umrah and special prayers. Special arrangements are being finalized to facilitate the influx of pilgrims.

On the last Friday of Sha’ban, more than 1.5 million worshippers reportedly attended prayers at Masjid al-Haram, reflecting the anticipated surge in visitors during Ramadan.

The number is expected to increase significantly, particularly during the last ten days of the holy month, when the atmosphere resembles that of Hajj.

It is worth noting that Ramadan is likely to begin on February 19 in Saudi Arabia and several other Islamic countries, subject to the official moon-sighting announcement.

Salman Agha calls Usman Tariq ‘trump aard’ ahead of clash against India

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Salman Agha

Colombo: Pakistan T20 captain Salman Ali Agha has termed spinner Usman Tariq as the team’s “trump card” ahead of the much-anticipated match against India, stressing that his side must focus on playing quality cricket.

Addressing a press conference in Colombo, Salman said all players in the squad are equally important, but Usman Tariq holds special value for the team. “You all have made him what he is today; for us, he is a trump card,” he remarked.

Responding to questions regarding concerns over Usman Tariq’s bowling action, the captain clarified that the spinner has already been cleared twice. “I don’t know why the issue is being discussed again. It does not affect Usman at all. We cannot stop people from expressing opinions; everyone has that right,” he added.

Looking ahead to the high-profile encounter, Salman emphasized that the team is fully prepared. “It will be another big-level match tomorrow. We are ready and need to play good cricket. We are familiar with the conditions and understand the pitch. Rain is beyond our control, but we also have plans in place if overs are reduced,” he said.

The skipper reiterated that all 15 squad members are important and that the playing XI will be selected based on match conditions. He also backed Babar Azam, expressing confidence in his form. “Babar is scoring runs. There is no concern from our side, and we hope he continues to perform tomorrow as well.”

On Pakistan’s World Cup record against India, Salman admitted that history has not been in Pakistan’s favor but insisted the team has learned from past experiences. “We have prepared plans for India’s entire playing XI and will aim to deliver a strong performance,” he stated.

When asked about India’s aggressive batter Abhishek Sharma, the Pakistan captain said he hoped the player’s recovery was going well and that he would be available for his side.

Speaking about leadership pressure, Salman concluded, “When you are captain, there is added responsibility and pressure. You represent your country, and all eyes are on you. Our job is to play good cricket on the field.”

Indian captain confident of strategy against Usman Tariq

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Indian captain

Colombo: India captain Suryakumar Yadav has said his team has prepared a clear strategy against Pakistan, particularly their spin attack, ahead of the high-voltage encounter in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on February 15.

Speaking at a press conference in Colombo, Suryakumar said preparations for the Pakistan match were carried out according to schedule. “A Pakistan-India match is ultimately just a game. It’s not as if we don’t play enough cricket. We will try to deliver our best performance,” he remarked.

Referring to Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq, the Indian skipper described him as a different kind of cricketer but stressed that India would not surrender. “Pakistan’s spinners are bowling well. We have made our plans accordingly,” he added.

When asked about shaking hands with Pakistan players, Suryakumar responded lightheartedly, saying, “Wait 24 hours for the handshake. We are here to play good cricket and will focus on that. Have dinner, get some rest, and we’ll see what happens tomorrow.”

The Indian captain also acknowledged Pakistan’s recent performances, noting that they played impressive cricket in the Asia Cup and have continued that form. He admitted that Pakistan-India matches always bring added pressure, but emphasized that controlling nerves and executing skills on the field is key to success.

Colombo weather poses risk to Pakistan vs India T20 World Cup showdown

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Colombo weather

Colombo: The highly anticipated Group A clash between Pakistan and India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled for tomorrow in Colombo, may be affected by rain.

Meteorologists from the Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology have warned that a low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal could bring heavy showers during the evening match.

The weather is expected to start warm and humid, with temperatures reaching 30–31°C during the day. However, thunderstorms and intermittent rainfall are predicted in the afternoon, with a 50–70% chance of precipitation.

The match is set to begin at 7:00 PM local time, but some weather models indicate that heavy rain could occur before the toss, potentially causing delays or a reduction in overs. While forecasts suggest slight improvement after 8:00 PM, intermittent rain is likely throughout the night.

In case the match is washed out, both Pakistan and India will be awarded one point each. Fans are eagerly hoping that weather does not dampen this high-voltage encounter.

Indian cricket team had to cut short their training session in Colombo due to a light drizzle, ahead of the much-anticipated T20 World Cup clash against Pakistan.

The unexpected rain forced the players to leave the ground earlier than planned, as preparation ramps up for the high-profile Group A encounter scheduled for February 15. Officials confirmed that the team will monitor the weather conditions closely and adjust training sessions accordingly.

Fans and analysts are keeping a close watch on Colombo’s unpredictable weather, as showers could impact match timing or even reduce overs for the Pakistan-India showdown.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami accepts election results

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Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami

Dhaka: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has accepted the results of the 13th national parliamentary elections and announced its commitment to act as a responsible opposition party.

According to the Dhaka Tribune, party chief Dr. Shafiqur Rahman stated on social media that the party respects the rule of law and is dedicated to a stable and effective democratic system.

Dr. Rahman expressed gratitude to party volunteers and supporters, noting that while some may feel disappointed, their efforts were not in vain. “Winning 77 seats has nearly quadrupled our parliamentary presence and strengthened us as a robust opposition. This is not a defeat but a foundation,” he said.

He emphasized that political fortunes can change, citing the example of the Bangladesh National Party, which held only 30 seats in 2008 but returned to power 18 years later. “Democratic politics is a long journey aimed at earning public trust, ensuring accountability, and preparing responsibly for the future,” he added.

Highlighting the party’s approach, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said, “True leadership is tested not just by participation in elections, but by accepting the people’s decision. Our movement is not for a single election; it is to strengthen democracy, safeguard citizens’ rights, and build a responsible state. Jamaat-e-Islami will work as a principled and peaceful opposition for national progress.”

Massive sinkhole swallows road in Shanghai, no casualties reported

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Massive sinkhole swallows

Shanghai: A deep sinkhole suddenly opened on a road in Shanghai, swallowing everything in its path, according to international media reports.

The incident occurred at the intersection of Kaixun Road and Lian Road in the Minhang District on February 12, triggered by a line leak at a metro construction site. The road collapsed abruptly, engulfing nearby objects in the process.

Municipal authorities quickly cordoned off the area and launched an operation to clear debris and secure the site.

Fortunately, no casualties or financial losses have been reported. However, CCTV footage of the incident has gone viral on social media, attracting widespread attention and sparking discussions among online users.