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China Rare Earth Export Licences to Japan Signal Tactical Easing, Strategic Control Intact

Limited Clearances Amid Tightened Controls

China has begun approving a small number of rare earth export licences to Japan under its newly enforced “dual-use” export control framework. The move offers short-term relief to Japanese manufacturers but does not amount to a broad relaxation. Industry feedback suggests approvals are selective, slower than earlier processes, and capped well below historical volumes—underscoring Beijing’s continued caution.

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India Climate Budget 2026–27: Ambition Rises, Spending Remains Measured

Climate Concerns Gain Visibility, But Caution Persists

India’s Union Budgets have gradually begun reflecting climate priorities since 2021, when a modest allocation of Rs4,500 crore was earmarked to localise solar photovoltaic manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports. In the Union Budget 2026–27, climate-linked spending has widened in scope, touching sectors such as heavy industry, renewable energy, green hydrogen and nuclear power. Yet, the overall approach remains cautious, with allocations signalling pilots and gradual scaling rather than rapid transformation.

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Kerala Stray Dog Bite Cases Surge in 2025 Thiruvananthapuram Tops District List

Thiruvananthapuram Leads in Stray Dog Bite Incidents

Thiruvananthapuram has once again recorded the highest number of stray dog bite cases in the State, underscoring a growing public health and urban governance challenge. In 2025, as many as 58,108 people sought treatment for stray dog bites at government hospitals in the district—an increase of about 8,000 cases compared to 2024. Health officials caution that the actual number may be even higher, as not all victims report to public health facilities.

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CyberPeace Summit 2026 to Tackle Cybercrime, AI Risks and Misinformation

Global CyberPeace Summit 2026: Addressing Emerging Digital Threats

The Global CyberPeace Summit 2026, scheduled to be held in New Delhi from February 8 to 10, will bring global attention to some of the most critical challenges shaping the digital world today. The summit will focus on cybercrime, artificial intelligence-related risks, misinformation, protection of critical infrastructure, and the evolving frameworks of digital governance.

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BIFFeS 2026: ‘Sabar Bonda’ Bags Best Indian Film, ‘Vanya’ Wins Top Kannada Honour

BIFFeS 2026 Concludes with Major Wins for Regional Cinema

The 17th edition of the Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFeS) 2026 concluded in Bengaluru with a strong celebration of Indian and Asian cinema. The festival’s top honour for Best Indian Film went to the Marathi feature Sabar Bonda, while Vanya was adjudged the Best Kannada Film, reinforcing the festival’s role as a key platform for regional and independent storytelling.

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