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.

India Dominate Yet Again in U-19 World Cup History

India reaffirmed their supremacy in junior world cricket by winning a record sixth ICC Under-19 World Cup title, defeating England by 100 runs in the final on February 6, 2026. The emphatic victory further cemented India’s status as the most successful team in the tournament’s history, adding to earlier triumphs in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018 and 2022.

The final was defined by a once-in-a-generation performance from teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, whose extraordinary batting display overwhelmed England and lit up the global stage.

Agni-III Missile Test Strengthens India’s Strategic Posture

India on Friday successfully carried out a test launch of the Agni-III, further reinforcing the credibility of its strategic deterrence framework. The test was conducted from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur in Odisha and confirmed that all operational and technical parameters of the missile system performed as expected.

Tamil Nadu Pushes Urban Ecology into Core Governance

The Tamil Nadu government has formally launched its Urban Greening Policy under the Green Tamil Nadu Mission, marking a decisive shift towards climate-resilient, liveable and people-centric urban development. The policy was unveiled in Chennai by Chief Minister M K Stalin, signalling that urban ecology will now be a foundational element of planning and governance across the State.

Historic Breakthrough for Iran at the IOC

In a landmark moment for global sports governance, Soraya Aghaei has been elected as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), becoming the first woman from Iran to join the prestigious body. Her election on February 4, 2026, also makes her the youngest serving IOC member, reflecting the organisation’s evolving emphasis on inclusivity and youth representation.