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.

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.

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.

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.