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At IndiaVerve, we go beyond the noise to bring you meaningful stories of change, resilience and progress—from India to the world stage. Our mission is to bring readers credible, wide-ranging coverage across politics, business, sports, culture, society and more.
At IndiaVerve, we go beyond the noise to bring you meaningful stories of change, resilience and progress—from India to the world stage. Our mission is to bring readers credible, wide-ranging coverage across politics, business, sports, culture, society and more.
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Day: February 7, 2026

Suryakumar’s brilliant blitz guides India past USA scare in T20 World Cup opener

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Mumbai: India overcame a strong challenge from the United States to secure a 29-run victory in their Group A match of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday, with Suryakumar Yadav playing a decisive unbeaten knock under pressure.

Put in to bat, India found themselves in deep trouble early on a surface that offered grip and variable bounce. The top order collapsed to 46 for four inside the powerplay and later slipped to 77 for six, as the USA bowlers mixed pace effectively and forced mistakes.

Suryakumar Yadav held the innings together after surviving an early chance and gradually shifted gears. He finished unbeaten on 84 off 49 balls, producing a powerful late surge that lifted India to 161 for nine. The final overs proved decisive, with Suryakumar scoring heavily at the death to give India a total that looked competitive on a difficult pitch.

Shadley van Schalkwyk led the USA bowling attack with four wickets, while Harmeet Singh and Mohammad Mohsin applied sustained pressure through the middle overs. Despite their control for much of the innings, the late acceleration prevented the USA from fully capitalising on India’s collapse.

Chasing 162, the USA began with intent but lost momentum as India’s bowlers struck at key moments. Mohammed Siraj, making a return to the T20I side, removed Andries Gous early, while Arshdeep Singh delivered a disciplined opening spell and dismissed Monank Patel to keep the pressure on.

Shubham Ranjane and Sanjay Krishnamurthi attempted to rebuild the chase, but the lack of boundaries on the slow surface made the task increasingly difficult. India’s spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel tightened the screws, conceding little and forcing errors as the required rate climbed sharply.

Krishnamurthi briefly revived hopes, but Axar Patel’s late strikes ended the resistance. The USA were restricted to 132 for eight, falling short despite a spirited performance that had put India under sustained pressure earlier in the contest.

The win marked the lowest successful T20I defence at the Wankhede Stadium and kept India’s campaign on track, while the USA once again demonstrated their growing competitiveness on the world stage.

Other Matches Played on Saturday

West Indies Vs Scotland: West Indies began their T20 World Cup campaign with a convincing 35-run win over Scotland at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, driven by a commanding all-round display. Shimron Hetmyer anchored the innings with a fluent 64 off 36 balls at No. 3, lifting the Windies from a cautious start to a competitive 182 for 5. Scotland’s chase faltered despite a fighting partnership between Richie Berrington and Tom Bruce, before Romario Shepherd turned the game decisively with a sensational four-wicket over that included a hat-trick, as Scotland were bowled out for 147 in 18.5 overs.

Brief scores: West Indies 182/5 in 20 ovs (Shimron Hetmyer 64; Brad Currie 2/23). Scotland 147 in 18.5 ovs (Richie Berrington 42; Romario Shepherd 5/20, Jason Holder 3/30). West Indies won by 35 runs.

Pakistan Vs Netherlands: Pakistan survived a major scare to edge past the Netherlands by three wickets in a tense Group A clash at Colombo, rescued by a late blitz from Faheem Ashraf. Chasing 148, Pakistan collapsed from a steady position to 114 for 7, allowing the Dutch to sniff an upset. However, a dropped catch proved costly as Ashraf smashed an unbeaten 29 off 11 balls, sealing the chase with two overs to spare. Earlier, disciplined Dutch bowling and a modest batting effort had kept the contest alive, but Pakistan crossed the line at 148 for 7 in 19.3 overs to escape with a narrow victory.

Brief scores: Netherlands 147 in 19.5 ovs (Scott Edwards 37; Salman Mirza 3/24). Pakistan 148/7 in 19.3 ovs (Sahibzada Farhan 47, Faheem Ashraf 29 n.o.). Pakistan won by 3 wkts.

Five cubs born to cheetah Aasha at Kuno Park

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New Delhi: Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh recorded a significant development under Project Cheetah on Saturday with the birth of five cubs.

Namibian cheetah Aasha gave birth to the cubs, forest officials confirmed, and said that both the mother and the cubs are healthy and under close observation.

Aasha is a second-time mother. This is the eighth successful cheetah litter recorded in India since the launch of Project Cheetah. With these births, the number of Indian-born surviving cheetah cubs has increased to 24.

Officials said the total cheetah population in the country now stands at 35. The figure includes adult cheetahs brought from Namibia and South Africa, along with cubs born in the country.

Project Cheetah was launched by the Union government to reintroduce the species after it was declared extinct in India in 1952. Kuno National Park was selected as the first release site due to its suitable habitat and prey base.

Forest department officials said continuous monitoring, scientific management, and veterinary care have played a key role in the project’s progress. Field staff and veterinarians remain deployed around the clock to ensure the safety of the animals.

The latest births are being seen as a positive sign for the long-term sustainability of the cheetah population in India. Authorities said efforts will continue to strengthen habitat management and protection measures.

In a post on X, Union Cabinet Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, said: “This joyous achievement stands as a shining testimony to the unwavering dedication, skill, and commitment of the field staff and veterinarians working tirelessly on the ground.”

CM launches BCPPER economic roadmap

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Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday launched the Economic Plan for the Bhubaneswar–Cuttack–Puri–Paradeep Economic Region (BCPPER). He laid out a long-term roadmap for regional growth and infrastructure-led development in Odisha.

The plan has been prepared with the support of NITI Aayog. It is aimed at transforming the region into a major economic growth hub. The launch event was held at Lok Seva Bhavan, where the CM outlined the government’s vision for integrated and sustainable development.

The BCPPER roadmap includes over 80 projects across key sectors such as metals, downstream industries, biotechnology, textiles, chemicals, tourism, education, and information technology. It is supported by more than 30 policy initiatives designed to boost investment, generate employment, and improve ease of doing business.

According to the plan, the BCPPER economy is projected to grow from USD22.4 billion to USD500 billion by 2047, positioning the region as a new growth engine in India’s economic landscape. The CM described the region as a “laboratory of growth and prosperity.”

As part of the Growth Hub initiative, the government is focusing on strengthening infrastructure in Greater Bhubaneswar, including ring roads, new urban centres, semiconductor hubs, and data centres. Parallel efforts are underway to develop world-class tourism, heritage, industrial, and logistics ecosystems across the region.

The CM said the initiative would play a key role in achieving the goal of a “Prosperous Odisha” by 2036 and contribute to the vision of a “Developed India” by 2047. He highlighted the role of the double-engine government and the cooperation between the Centre and the State under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The plan seeks to create synergy by combining Bhubaneswar’s IT and technology base, Cuttack’s commercial strength, Puri’s spiritual significance, and Paradeep’s industrial and port-led potential. Projects such as the Rare Earth Corridor and the East–West Corridor are expected to help position Odisha as a global logistics and semiconductor hub.

In a series of posts on X, Majhi said the BCPPER initiative is expected to unlock large-scale investment opportunities and create substantial employment in the coming years, marking a significant step in Odisha’s economic transformation.

US removes 25% tariff on Indian goods linked to Russian oil purchases

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New Delhi: United States President Donald Trump has signed an executive order lifting the additional 25 per cent tariff imposed on Indian goods over New Delhi’s purchases of Russian oil, marking a key step in easing trade tensions between the two countries.

The executive order, signed on Friday evening, removes the tariff penalty with effect from Saturday. The measure had been introduced by the Trump administration as part of a national emergency declaration linked to Russia’s energy exports. Its withdrawal follows what the White House described as fresh commitments made by India under a preliminary trade understanding reached earlier this week.

In the executive order, Trump said India had taken “significant steps” to align with the United States on national security, foreign policy and economic issues. These steps, he noted, include commitments to halt direct or indirect imports of Russian oil, increase purchases of American energy products, and enter into a 10-year framework aimed at expanding defence cooperation between the two countries.

Screenshot of the Executive Order that Trump signed on Friday

The removal of the Russia-related tariff also clears the way for a broader reduction in duties on Indian exports to the US. As part of the same arrangement, the overall tariff burden on Indian goods is expected to fall from 50 per cent to 18 per cent, following the rollback of both the oil-linked penalty and a separate 25 per cent “reciprocal” tariff imposed earlier.

According to a joint statement issued alongside the executive order, India has agreed to eliminate tariffs on all US industrial goods and on a range of food and agricultural products. These include items such as dried distillers’ grains used for animal feed, red sorghum, tree nuts, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and fresh and processed fruits, among others.

In return, the United States has committed to lowering its reciprocal tariff rates on a wide basket of Indian exports. US authorities have indicated that some products not manufactured domestically could eventually see tariffs removed altogether, subject to further negotiations.

The agreement also covers sector-specific concessions. Washington has agreed to lift tariffs imposed on certain aircraft and aircraft parts under national security provisions. Auto parts currently affected by similar restrictions will be brought under a preferential tariff-rate quota system. On generic pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients, both sides will continue discussions under an ongoing national security investigation framework.

Reacting to the development, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the framework agreement would significantly expand opportunities for Indian exporters. In a post on X, he said the interim understanding would open access to the US market for sectors such as textiles, apparel, leather, footwear, chemicals, handicrafts and select machinery, with particular benefits for MSMEs, farmers and fishermen.

The tariff rollback marks a notable shift in US–India trade relations after months of strained negotiations. Officials on both sides indicated that talks would continue in the coming weeks to work towards a comprehensive trade agreement.

CM Majhi hails surrender of 19 Maoists in Odisha

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Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said on Friday that Odisha has achieved a breakthrough in the national mission to eliminate Left Wing Extremism. He said the State remains committed to development while ensuring the safety and security of every citizen.

Majhi said sustained intelligence-driven operations and coordinated action by security forces led to the surrender of 19 Maoist cadres. The cadres belonged to the BGN division of Rayagada district and the KKBN division of Kandhamal district.

He said two State Committee members were among those who surrendered. They were identified as Nikhil alias Niranjan Raut and Ankita alias Rasmita Lenka. Both carried a combined reward of Rs55 lakh.

The CM said security forces recovered 14 sophisticated weapons during the operation. These included AK-47 rifles and Self-Loading Rifles, highlighting the scale of the success.

Majhi said the achievement reflected Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a secure and empowered India. He also credited Union Home Minister Amit Shah for firm leadership and the Centre’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism and extremism.

He said the government aims to make the State completely Maoist-free by March 31. At the same time, he stressed that the government follows a humane and inclusive approach.

Majhi said surrendered cadres would receive support under the Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy. The policy ensures legal protection and a dignified return to mainstream life.

He said violence has no future and urged remaining Maoist cadres to surrender arms.

In a post on X, the CM said: “I once again call upon all remaining cadres to surrender arms, reject violence and join the path of development as partners in the progress of our state.”

India rejects Pakistan’s allegations over Islamabad mosque blast

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New Delhi: India on Friday firmly rejected Pakistan’s claims linking it to the deadly bombing at a mosque in Islamabad that killed at least 31 people. New Delhi described the allegations as baseless and irresponsible.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement, condemning the attack, and stated that it was regrettable that Pakistan chose to blame external actors instead of addressing its internal challenges. The MEA said Pakistan was diverting attention from problems rooted within its own society.

The statement said: “The bombing at an Islamabad mosque earlier today is condemnable and India condoles the loss of life it has caused. It is unfortunate that, instead of seriously addressing the problems plaguing its social fabric, Pakistan should choose to delude itself by blaming others for its home-grown ills. India rejects any and every such allegation, which is as baseless as it is pointless.”

The suicide bombing occurred during Friday prayers at the Khadijah al-Kubra mosque-cum-imambargah in Islamabad’s Tarlai area. Police said the powerful explosion left at least 31 people dead and injured 169 others, according to several media reports.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif alleged that India and Afghanistan had links to the attack. He made the claim without presenting any supporting evidence.

In a social media post, Asif said the attacker had travelled to and from Afghanistan. He further alleged that coordination between India and Afghanistan was becoming apparent.

Indian Coast Guard busts oil smuggling network

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New Delhi: A joint sea and air operation by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Friday uncovered an international oil-smuggling network operating off India’s western coastline.

The operation exposed a well-organised syndicate involved in illegal mid-sea fuel transfers in international waters.

Acting on technology-driven surveillance and data pattern analysis, ICG units intercepted three suspect vessels around 100 nautical miles west of Mumbai. Investigators found that the network sourced cheap oil from conflict-affected regions and transferred it mid-sea to motor tankers to avoid duties owed to coastal states.

Officials said sustained searches of the vessels, along with electronic data verification and questioning of crew members, helped uncover the full modus operandi. The probe also revealed links to an international handler network that coordinated the smuggling operations.

The intercepted vessels frequently changed their identities to evade detection, investigators said. All three ships are now being escorted to Mumbai for further legal proceedings.

The successful operation highlights the ICG’s growing role in countering maritime crime. Authorities said the action reinforces India’s position as a key provider of maritime security and a strong defender of the rules-based international order at sea.

In a post on X, the ICG said: “The vessels known to frequently change identity, are being escorted to #Mumbai for further legal action, reinforcing India’s role as a net provider of maritime security and guardian of the rules based international order.”

India successfully tests Agni-3 missile

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New Delhi: India successfully tested the Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile Agni-3 from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, on Friday. The launch confirmed the missile’s operational readiness and technical reliability under the supervision of the Strategic Forces Command.

The Ministry of Defence said the user trial met all mission objectives. The test reaffirmed India’s credible strategic deterrence and showcased the strength of its indigenous missile programme.

Agni-3 operates as a road-mobile, solid-fuel missile with a strike range between 3,000 and 3,500 kilometres. It can carry a payload of up to 1.5 tonnes, including nuclear warheads. The missile delivers high precision with a circular error probable of less than 40 metres, according to an official statement.

India inducted Agni-3 into service more than a decade ago. This successful test reinforces its continued role in the country’s nuclear triad and minimum deterrence strategy amid regional security challenges.

Koraput MP seeks GI tag for Odisha’s iconic culinary, tribal heritage

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Bhubaneswar: Congress MP from Koraput, Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka, on Friday raised a matter under Rule 377 in the Lok Sabha, urging the government to grant Geographical Indication (GI) tag recognition to several iconic culinary and tribal products from Odisha.

In his submission, Ulaka highlighted Odisha’s rich food traditions and tribal heritage, stating that many culturally significant products still lack formal protection. He specifically sought GI tag recognition for Chhenagaja, Dahibara Aloodum, Pakhala Bhata, Chhena Jhilli, Sara Papudi, Sarsatia, and Koraput Coffee.

The MP said Chhenagaja, a traditional Odia sweet that has been prepared with precision for generations, deserves recognition for its unique texture and taste.

He described Dahibara Aloodum as a legendary street delicacy of Cuttack and an emotional symbol for Odias, stressing the need to preserve its authenticity through GI protection.

Ulaka also referred to Sara Papudi, a rural sweet with traditional preparation methods, and Sarsatia, a rare tribal delicacy made using forest produce. He said GI status would help safeguard these fragile culinary traditions.

Highlighting Chhena Jhilli from Nimapada, he noted that its signature melt-in-the-mouth flavour must be protected from imitation.

Calling Pakhala Bhata the soul food of Odisha, Ulaka said GI recognition would secure its cultural ownership and purity. He also emphasized the importance of Koraput Coffee, which is organically grown by tribal farmers in the Eastern Ghats and has gained global recognition.

GI status, he said, would ensure fair income and stronger branding for local growers.

In a post on X, Ulaka urged the government to initiate a time-bound GI facilitation process and extend support to local producer groups and tribal cooperatives.

India, US reach Interim Trade Agreement; Modi says it will boost ‘Make in India’ and jobs

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New Delhi: India and the US on Saturday reached a framework for an Interim Agreement aimed at promoting reciprocal and mutually beneficial trade. This agreement reinforces both countries’ commitment to the broader India-US-India Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) negotiations, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald J. Trump on February 13, 2025.

The BTA is expected to include additional market access commitments and strengthen supply chains, according to an official statement. Officials called the Interim Agreement a historic step, reflecting a shared goal of balanced trade based on mutual interests and concrete outcomes.

Under the agreement, India will reduce or eliminate tariffs on a wide range of US goods. These include industrial products, certain food and agricultural items such as dried distillers’ grains, red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, soybean oil, wine, and spirits.

The US, in turn, will maintain a reciprocal tariff of 18% on certain Indian goods, including textiles, apparel, leather products, footwear, plastics, rubber, machinery, and artisanal items.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the interim trade agreement with the US will strengthen ‘Make in India’ by opening up new opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs, and create jobs for women and youngsters.

“Great news for India and USA! We have agreed on a framework for an Interim Trade Agreement between our two great nations,” Modi said in a post on X, and thanked US President Donald Trump for his personal commitment to ties between India and the US.

If the agreement is finalized, the US will remove tariffs on specific goods, including generic pharmaceuticals, gems, diamonds, and aircraft parts.

Also Read: US removes 25% tarrif on Indian goods linked to Russian oil purchases

The US will also lift certain tariffs on Indian aircraft and aircraft components imposed under past national security measures. Similarly, India will offer a preferential tariff quota for automotive parts linked to US security measures. Both countries will negotiate outcomes for generic pharmaceuticals and ingredients based on pending US investigations.

The framework emphasizes sustained preferential market access in sectors of mutual interest. It also establishes rules of origin to ensure benefits flow primarily to the US and India.

Both nations have agreed to address non-tariff barriers. India has committed to resolving long-standing obstacles to US medical devices, ICT products, and agricultural goods.

The countries will also review standards, testing procedures, and conformity assessments to facilitate smoother trade.

The framework allows either country to adjust commitments if tariffs are changed in the future. The agreement also lays the groundwork for further BTA negotiations, with the US signaling its intention to consider India’s requests for lower tariffs on Indian goods.

Both nations will cooperate to strengthen economic security, improve supply chain resilience, and encourage investment and technology cooperation. India plans to purchase USD 500 billion worth of US energy products, aircraft, precious metals, technology items, and coking coal over the next five years. T

The agreement also aims to expand trade in technology products, including GPUs and data center equipment, and promote joint innovation.

The framework addresses digital trade by committing to removing barriers and establishing clear rules for robust, mutually beneficial trade in the sector. Both countries have agreed to implement this framework quickly and work toward finalizing the Interim Agreement.

This sets the stage for a comprehensive BTA in line with the roadmap outlined in the Terms of Reference.