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Austrian beauty influencer Stefanie Pieper was found dead in a Slovenian forest a week after she went missing. Authorities discovered her body on Friday after her former boyfriend reportedly admitted to killing her and guided investigators to the location where she had been hidden.
The 31-year-old suspect told police he strangled Pieper and placed her body in a suitcase before leaving it in a remote area. Pieper had been reported missing by friends and relatives when she failed to show up for a scheduled photoshoot. She was last seen at a Christmas gathering with friends.
Local media reported that Pieper had messaged her friends saying she had reached home, followed by another message claiming someone was following her and was inside her building&rsquo;s stairwell. Neighbours later said they heard an argument and allegedly saw her ex-partner in the area.
The investigation took a turn when the suspect&rsquo;s car caught fire outside a casino near the Austrian border. After being detained, he reportedly confessed and led the police to the forested crime scene. Slovenian authorities have since extradited him to Austria.
Two of the man&rsquo;s relatives, his brother and stepfather, have also been arrested. The motive behind Pieper&rsquo;s killing remains under investigation.

Austrian influencer Stefanie Pieper found dead after ex-boyfriend admits to killing her

Influencer Stefanie Pieper Found Dead in Forest

OPEC+ Ramps Up Production, Market Watches for Next Chapter
In a significant move that could ease pump prices across the globe, the OPEC+ alliance has announced a fresh increase in oil production, pledging to add 548,000 barrels per day beginning this September. This marks the final stage in reversing the 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd) cut that the group had voluntarily maintained since 2024, initially aimed at stabilising the oil market post-pandemic.
This announcement, made on Sunday, extends the group&rsquo;s ongoing efforts to gradually restore global oil supplies. It is the sixth consecutive month in which OPEC+ has boosted output, with each decision building upon a series of monthly hikes&mdash;138,000 bpd in April, followed by 411,000 bpd in May, June and July, and a surprise jump to 548,000 bpd in August. Now, September follows suit, completing a carefully managed return of withheld barrels to the market.
Behind the curtain of technical coordination lies a complex web of geopolitics and market strategy. Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the OPEC bloc, and Russia, the largest contributor among non-OPEC members, continue to drive the 22-nation alliance&rsquo;s decisions. The timing of this latest move is particularly notable, as it coincides with heightened international efforts&mdash;primarily from the United States&mdash;to bring Moscow to the negotiating table amid its prolonged military campaign in Ukraine.
OPEC+ has spent years defending oil prices by limiting supply, a strategy born out of necessity during COVID-19's demand collapse. However, as global demand resurged and inflation took root in major economies, especially the US, calls grew louder to alleviate supply constraints. These calls reached a crescendo earlier this year when American policymakers, including President Donald Trump, demanded a production surge to rein in domestic fuel costs.
OPEC+ initially resisted the pressure but ultimately pivoted in April 2025. That month, in a move that sent oil prices tumbling to a four-year low, the alliance abruptly accelerated its unwinding plan. Market analysts viewed this as a calculated risk, taken while the market was still digesting the aftershocks of the Trump administration&rsquo;s sweeping tariff measures.
With the 2.2 million bpd revival now nearly complete, attention turns to what comes next. There remains an additional 1.66 million bpd of output still under voluntary suspension&mdash;formally scheduled to remain offline until the end of 2026. Whether OPEC+ chooses to revisit this timeline will likely depend on global economic signals and energy demand forecasts.
For now, industry experts expect a period of stability. Many believe the group will hold steady while monitoring broader macroeconomic conditions, currency volatility, and potential disruptions from geopolitical flashpoints.
As oil flows return and prices remain in flux, consumers, analysts, and governments alike will be closely watching OPEC+ for its next strategic signal&mdash;aware that every barrel carries not just economic weight, but political consequence.

OPEC+ to add 548,000 barrels a day from September, completing phased return of oil supply

OPEC+ Ups Oil Output, Market Eyes Next Move

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner admitted his team is not even thinking about the championship battle after a disappointing Austrian Grand Prix, where the team did not conjure a single point.&nbsp;
Given the significant gap that has developed in both championships, Horner knows Verstappen and Red Bull now face a tall order to add to their recent title successes in 2025.
"Well, look, the championship we&rsquo;re not even thinking about,&rdquo; he conceded. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re just focused on each race now. They&rsquo;re [McLaren] a long way out of touch. We&rsquo;ll just take things race by race,&rdquo; said Horner to F1 TV.
McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are in the battle for the Drivers Championship with 216 and 201 points, respectively, with defending champion Verstappen sitting at 11 points. The British manufacturers are currently at 417 points, miles ahead of second-placed Ferrari, who have 210 points to their name.&nbsp;
"A frustrating day. Starting with Max, he had a great start and was well-positioned for Turn 1. At Turn 3, unfortunately, Kimi just lost control and wiped him out. Very frustrating&hellip; Obviously, Kimi&rsquo;s apologised. It is what it is," Horner added.&nbsp;
Verstappen was taken out in the first lap by Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli and had to call curtains on his race, while teammate Yuki Tsunoda&rsquo;s struggles continued as he got a 10-second time penalty &ndash; along with two penalty points &ndash; for causing a collision with Alpine&rsquo;s Franco Colapinto.
"With Yuki, it&rsquo;s difficult to make progress starting where he did on the grid, then picking up a penalty as well with Colapinto. A horrible race for him today as well. Frustrating, but we&rsquo;ll move on quickly to Silverstone.
"The car is&hellip; it&rsquo;s a car that&rsquo;s evolved over the years around the development path that we&rsquo;ve taken. It isn&rsquo;t an easy car to drive, but it&rsquo;s not that difficult either. We&rsquo;ll work with him and hopefully it&rsquo;ll make a step up in Silverstone," he said.
&nbsp; (Apart from the headline, this article has not been edited by Benefit News editorial team and is published from an IANS news feed.)

Horner says Red Bull has shifted focus to individual races, not the title fight

Horner: 'Red Bull Not Thinking of Title Fight'

The iconic Austrian Grand Prix will remain on the F1 calendar through 2041 inclusive, following the long-term extension of Formula 1&rsquo;s contract with promoter Projekt Spielberg GmbH &amp; Co KG.&nbsp;
The Austrian Grand Prix boasts a long and prestigious history in Formula 1, having appeared on the calendar 37 times, with the first race taking place in 1964.
The Red Bull Ring, situated in the Styrian mountains, first hosted the event in 1970 and offers one of the most picturesque settings for a Formula 1 race, with drivers navigating the 4.3 km circuit known for its elevation changes and mix of high- and low-speed corners that encourage wheel-to-wheel battles.
The circuit dropped off the calendar in 2004, but in 2010 the late Dietrich Mateschitz invested in the Red Bull Ring, funding renovations that revitalised the facility and led to its return in 2014.
Since then, the race has become a favourite among fans and drivers alike. A roll call of greats from Formula 1&rsquo;s 75-year history have taken the top step in Austria, including Alain Prost, Niki Lauda, Michael Schumacher and Alan Jones.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said, "Austria has long been an incredibly special race for Formula 1 so it&rsquo;s fantastic we have secured the long-term future of a Grand Prix so deeply rooted in the sport&rsquo;s history."
"The vision and passion of Dietrich Mateschitz gave the race the investment and attention that allowed it to return as an incredible event on the Formula 1 calendar."
"Each year, returning to the stunning Styrian mountains is a highlight &ndash; an experience that evokes incredible emotion among our drivers, teams, and fans alike, creating an atmosphere unlike any other."
"I want to extend my sincere thanks to Mark Mateschitz and Thomas Uberall and his team for their unwavering dedication to excellence, and to our incredible Austrian fanbase, whose enthusiasm and loyalty continue to elevate this iconic race."
Four drivers from the current grid have also claimed victory in Austria. 
Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc and George Russell have all triumphed at the Red Bull Ring, with Verstappen holding the record for the most wins on five (four under its guise as the Austrian Grand Prix and once when it featured as the Styrian Grand Prix in 2021).
Mark Mateschitz added, &ldquo;I am delighted that Formula 1 will remain at the Red Bull Ring for many years to come. I am proud to continue my father&rsquo;s legacy and to preserve the rich history of motor racing in Styria and at the Red Bull Ring &ndash; with and, above all, for the people of the region."
"Austria&rsquo;s close ties to Formula 1 are an excellent foundation for our long-term partnership. Working together, we intend to continue this success story for many years to come.&rdquo;
Thomas Uberall, General Manager of the Red Bull Ring, said, &ldquo;This long-term commitment to us by Formula 1 is a great honour and a wonderful challenge that we are happy to undertake on behalf of the fans and the Murtal region."
"The new contract is of inestimable importance for the future. The long-term security of the Austrian Grand Prix will trigger further investment in infrastructure and means tremendous added value for the Murtal region, for Styria and for Austria."
&mdash;IANS (Except for the headline, this article has&nbsp;not been edited by the Benefit News&nbsp;editorial team and is published directly&nbsp;from the IANS news feed.)

Austrian GP to stay at Red Bull Ring until 2041 in new long-term F1 deal

F1 Secures Austrian GP At Red Bull Ring Till 2041

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will convene an emergency Board of Governors meeting on Monday in response to US airstrikes on Iran&rsquo;s nuclear facilities, confirmed Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi.
Grossi took to X to announce, "In light of the urgent situation in Iran, I am convening an emergency meeting of the @IAEAorg Board of Governors for tomorrow."
The meeting follows US President Donald Trump&rsquo;s authorization of coordinated strikes on Iran&rsquo;s key nuclear facilities &mdash; Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan &mdash; which sparked fears of regional escalation and raised concerns over nuclear safety and proliferation.
While the IAEA confirmed that no abnormal radiation levels were detected after the attacks, the agency said it would continue to assess the situation and report updates.
Iran has condemned the strikes, calling them a gross violation of international law and insisting its nuclear programme is entirely peaceful.
The emergency session will likely cover the current condition of the affected nuclear sites, Iran&rsquo;s nuclear intentions, and broader implications for global nuclear non-proliferation agreements. Despite mounting international pressure, Iran has vowed to continue developing its nuclear &ldquo;national industry.&rdquo;
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

IAEA Calls Emergency Meeting Over US Strikes on Iran Sites

IAEA Board to meet Monday to assess Iran nuclear site strikes, fallout, and non-proliferation risks

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that no abnormal radiation levels have been recorded following the recent US airstrikes on Iran&rsquo;s nuclear sites.
In a statement posted on X, the nuclear watchdog said: &ldquo;Following attacks on three nuclear sites in Iran &ndash; including Fordow &ndash; the IAEA can confirm that no increase in off-site radiation levels has been reported as of this time.&rdquo; The agency added that further assessments are underway.
The reassurance comes amid global concerns over possible environmental fallout from the military strikes, which targeted Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan &mdash; key sites in Iran&rsquo;s nuclear infrastructure.
Tehran has sharply condemned the attack. The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran denounced the strikes as a blatant violation of international law, while vowing to continue developing what it calls a &ldquo;national industry&rdquo; &mdash; its nuclear programme.
&ldquo;The enemies will not be able to halt our progress,&rdquo; the agency said, referring to the legacy of Iran&rsquo;s &ldquo;nuclear martyrs&rdquo; and the dedication of its scientific community.
US President Donald Trump announced the operation via his social platform Truth Social, claiming the strikes were a &ldquo;historic moment&rdquo; aimed at halting Iran&rsquo;s nuclear ambitions. &ldquo;A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on Fordow&hellip; All planes are safely on their way home,&rdquo; Trump said, adding, &ldquo;NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!&rdquo;
Trump has previously issued Iran a two-week ultimatum to rejoin nuclear negotiations, though Tehran has shown no indication of conceding.
Despite the escalating geopolitical crisis, the IAEA&rsquo;s update has eased immediate fears of a radiological disaster, even as tensions across the Middle East remain dangerously high.
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]
&nbsp;

IAEA: No Radiation Spike After US Strikes on Iran Nuclear Sites

IAEA confirms no off-site radiation detected after US bombs Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan facilities

Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer has announced his resignation after coalition talks between the country&rsquo;s largest centrist parties&mdash;his conservative Austrian People&rsquo;s Party (&Ouml;VP) and the Social Democrats (SP&Ouml;)&mdash;collapsed. The breakdown of negotiations was a major setback in attempts to form a stable government without involving the far-right Freedom Party (FP&Ouml;).
The announcement came on Saturday, just a day after the liberal NEOS party withdrew from the coalition talks, citing an inability to reach agreements on critical reforms.
Nehammer Steps Down Amid Political Stalemate
In a video statement posted on his social media accounts, Nehammer confirmed that he would step down both as Chancellor and as chairman of the Austrian People&rsquo;s Party (&Ouml;VP).
"After the breakoff of the coalition talks, I am going to do the following: I will step down both as chancellor and party chairman of the People&rsquo;s Party in the coming days," Nehammer said.
He described the negotiations as &ldquo;long and honest&rdquo; but ultimately unfruitful, despite a shared interest among centrist parties in curbing the growing influence of the far-right FP&Ouml;.
Nehammer emphasized that the &Ouml;VP could not support measures that would negatively impact the economy or introduce new taxes, drawing a clear line on issues that stalled the talks.
"I will ensure an orderly transition," Nehammer added, while criticizing "radicals who do not offer a single solution to any problem but only live from describing problems."
Social Democrats Regret Talks&rsquo; Collapse
Social Democrat (SP&Ouml;) leader Andreas Babler expressed deep disappointment over the failure of coalition negotiations and Nehammer's subsequent resignation.
"This is not a good decision for our country," Babler said. He highlighted the key stumbling block as differing approaches to address Austria's "record deficit" left by previous administrations.
Babler revealed that he had personally urged Nehammer and the &Ouml;VP to continue negotiations, stressing that abandoning talks would deepen Austria&rsquo;s political uncertainty.
"I have offered to Karl Nehammer and the People's Party to continue negotiating and called on them not to give up," Babler added.
NEOS Withdrawal Triggered the Final Collapse
The liberal NEOS party, led by Beate Meinl-Reisinger, played a decisive role in the collapse of the coalition talks. On Friday, Meinl-Reisinger announced that NEOS would withdraw from negotiations, citing a lack of progress on critical reforms.
"Progress was impossible, and fundamental reforms that Austria urgently needs could not be agreed upon," Meinl-Reisinger stated.
Her comments suggest that key issues such as economic reforms, tax policy, and deficit management remained unresolved despite weeks of discussions.
The Rise of the Far-Right FP&Ouml;
The collapse of talks is seen as a victory for the far-right Freedom Party (FP&Ouml;), which has been gaining significant support in recent polls. The FP&Ouml; has capitalized on public dissatisfaction with the previous government's handling of economic challenges, inflation, and immigration policies.
Without a centrist coalition, the FP&Ouml; is now in a stronger position to play a decisive role in Austria&rsquo;s political future.
Uncertain Political Road Ahead
Nehammer&rsquo;s resignation leaves Austria at a political crossroads. The failure of centrist parties to unite against the far-right raises questions about the direction of Austria's governance and its broader implications for European politics.
Analysts suggest that snap elections might be the only viable way forward, though such a move risks further empowering the FP&Ouml;.
In the coming days, attention will turn to the &Ouml;VP leadership transition and whether new political alliances can be forged to stabilize Austria&rsquo;s government.
The political uncertainty in Austria reflects broader trends in Europe, where far-right parties are gaining traction amid economic concerns and social tensions.
Karl Nehammer's resignation marks the end of a turbulent chapter in Austrian politics. His departure not only highlights the challenges of forming a centrist coalition but also underscores the growing influence of populist movements across Europe.
Austria now faces a critical juncture, with potential snap elections on the horizon and rising concerns over political polarization. 
&nbsp;

Karl Nehammer steps down as Chancellor after coalition talks to exclude far-right FPO collapse

Austrian Chancellor Nehammer Resigns After Talks Fail

On a frosty morning in Slovakia&rsquo;s capital Bratislava, cameraman Peter Lahky expressed his concerns over a looming energy crisis after Ukraine halted Russian gas transit to Europe, fearing that higher energy prices would further add to his financial burden. 
Lahky told Xinhua that he has been worried about the recent forecasts by Slovakia&rsquo;s Regulatory Authority for Network Industries, the country&rsquo;s energy regulator, which projected household gas prices to increase by 15 to 34% in 2025 without state energy assistance.
This means his family would have to pay some 300 euros (310 US dollars) more than in 2024 for gas this year, and it remains unclear whether the Slovak government will continue providing energy aid in 2025, he said.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s not a small amount, so I&rsquo;ll be more careful with my wallet,&rdquo; he added.
Lahky&rsquo;s concerns are shared by many in central and eastern Europe, a region which has long heavily relied on Russian gas supplies but now has to seek costlier alternatives after both Ukraine and Russia announced on Wednesday the stoppage of Russian gas transit via Ukraine.
The stoppage followed Ukraine&rsquo;s decision not to renew a 2019 gas transit agreement between its state-run Naftogaz and Russia&rsquo;s Gazprom, which expired on December 31, 2024
Data showed that in 2023, roughly 15 billion cubic meters of Russian gas were transported via Ukraine to Europe, accounting for around 5% of Europe&rsquo;s needs. Following the halt of the Ukraine transit, the TurkStream pipeline under the Black Sea becomes the sole remaining route for transporting Russian gas to Europe.
The halt of the Ukraine transit is dealing a major blow to Moldova, which imported about 2 billion cubic meters of gas annually from Russia via Ukraine. Residents here worry not only about soaring gas prices, but also about possible energy shortage.
Tirasteploenergo, an energy company in Moldova&rsquo;s Transnistria region, announced on Wednesday morning the suspension of heating and hot water services. It was done due to &ldquo;temporary cessation of gas supplies&rdquo; to the company&rsquo;s heat-generating facilities, barring healthcare facilities and residential care institutions.
Noting that restoring the services could take up to two weeks, the company advised its customers to seal gaps around windows and balcony doors to retain heat and to gather all family members in a single room, Xinhua news agency reported.
In mid-December, the Moldovan government already decided to impose a 60-day national state of emergency to address risks arising from an expected cut-off of Russian gas supplies.
Starting Wednesday, the Moldovan government has also implemented measures to slash electricity consumption by at least 30%, including limiting street lighting, stopping the operation of escalators in some public and commercial buildings, and changing the working hours for high-energy-consuming areas.
The country has also planned to increase electricity imports from Romania and has signed a memorandum of understanding with Bulgaria for emergency gas assistance.
Tatiana Savva, a finance and public policy expert, said in an opinion piece on Moldova.org that high energy costs have long affected Moldovan households and companies and discouraged investments. In the absence of a quick solution to the current crisis, the economic consequences could include the stagnation of strategic investments, reduced economic activities and a decrease in the competitiveness of the local market.
In the more affluent Austria, public sentiments are more optimistic as the Austrian government has repeatedly assured its people that the country has built up adequate gas reserves and made thorough preparations for a switch to alternative suppliers.
Leo Lehr, deputy head of the economics department at Austria&rsquo;s energy regulator E-Control, has told local media that he does not expect significant gas price increases like in 2022. &nbsp;He cited anticipation of the halt of Russian gas supplies via Ukraine as the reason, but the gas prices could be more volatile at the beginning of this year.
&mdash;IANS
&nbsp;

Regions that relied heavily on Russian gas affected by stoppage

Experts divided on issue as Russian gas accounts for only 5% of Europe’s needs

Energy Crisis Looming Amid Ukraine Gas Transit Halt?

<div>Eight member countries of the OPEC+ oil-producing group have announced to further extend their voluntary output cuts by a month, pushing the reductions through the end of December in response to ongoing weak oil prices.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>OPEC+ comprises the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, Xinhua news agency reported.&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>The eight countries participating in these cuts are Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>In a statement on Sunday, OPEC confirmed that these countries have "agreed to extend the November 2023 voluntary production adjustments of 2.2 million barrels per day for one month until the end of December 2024".</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>The countries also reiterated their commitment to "achieve full conformity" with their production targets and to compensate for any overproduction by September 2025.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>This decision follows an earlier move in September when the eight countries extended their voluntary production cuts, originally due to expire at the end of September, by an additional two months.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Oil prices have generally trended downward in recent weeks amid concerns over slowing global demand.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>--IANS</div>
&nbsp;

2.2 million barrels per day until the end of December 2024

8 OPEC+ members extend voluntary oil output cuts by one month

Vienna:&nbsp; Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India has given 'Buddha' to the world, not 'Yuddha' (war) which means it has always given peace and prosperity, and therefore the country is going to strengthen its role in the 21st century.
&nbsp;Addressing the Indian community in Vienna, PM Modi also said that India is working towards being the best, the brightest, achieving the biggest and reaching the highest milestones.
"For thousands of years, we have been sharing our knowledge and expertise. We didn't give 'Yuddha' (war), we gave the world 'Buddha'. India always gave peace and prosperity, and therefore India is going to strengthen its role in the 21st century," PM Modi said in Austria, a day after he arrived here from Moscow where he highlighted the importance of finding a peaceful solution to the Ukraine conflict during his talks with President Vladimir Putin.
Describing his first visit to Austria as "meaningful", PM Modi said that after 41 years, an Indian Prime Minister has visited the country.
"This long wait has come to an end on a historic occasion. India and Austria are celebrating 75 years of their friendship," he said.
"India and Austria are geographically on two different ends, but we have many similarities. Democracy connects both countries. Our shared values are liberty, equality, pluralism, and respect for the rule of law. Our societies are multicultural and multilingual. Both countries celebrate diversity, and a big medium to reflect these values are elections," he said, amid chants of 'Modi, Modi'.
Recalling the recently concluded general elections, PM Modi said 650 million people exercised their right to vote and despite such a big election, the results of the elections were declared within hours.
"It is the power of our electoral machinery and democracy," he said.
&nbsp;More than 31,000 Indians are living in Austria. The number of Indian students in the country is more than 450, according to the Indian embassy here.

વિયેના: વડા પ્રધાન નરેન્દ્ર મોદીએ બુધવારે કહ્યું હતું કે ભારતે વિશ્વને 'બુદ્ધ' આપ્યા છે, 'યુદ્ધ' (યુદ્ધ) નહીં, જેનો અર્થ છે કે તેણે હંમેશા શાંતિ અને સમૃદ્ધિ આપી છે અને તેથી દેશ 21મી સદીમાં તેની ભૂમિકાને મજબૂત કરવા જઈ રહ્યો છે. . વિયેનામાં ભારતીય સમુદાયને સંબોધતા પીએમ મોદીએ એમ પણ કહ્યું કે ભારત સર્વશ્રેષ્ઠ, સૌથી તેજસ્વી, સૌથી મોટી સિદ્ધિ પ્રાપ્ત કરવા અને ઉચ્ચતમ સીમાચિહ્નો સુધી પહોંચવા માટે કામ કરી રહ્યું છે. "હજારો વર્ષોથી, અમે અમારું જ્ઞાન અને કુશળતા વહેંચી રહ્યા છીએ. અમે 'યુદ્ધ' (યુદ્ધ) નથી આપ્યું, અમે વિશ્વને 'બુદ્ધ' આપ્યું છે.
&nbsp;ભારતે હંમેશા શાંતિ અને સમૃદ્ધિ આપી છે અને તેથી ભારત તેને મજબૂત કરવા જઈ રહ્યું છે. 21મી સદીમાં ભૂમિકા,&rdquo; PM મોદીએ ઓસ્ટ્રિયામાં જણાવ્યું હતું કે, તેઓ મોસ્કોથી અહીં આવ્યાના એક દિવસ બાદ જ્યાં તેમણે રાષ્ટ્રપતિ વ્લાદિમીર પુતિન સાથેની તેમની વાતચીત દરમિયાન યુક્રેન સંઘર્ષનો શાંતિપૂર્ણ ઉકેલ શોધવાના મહત્વ પર પ્રકાશ પાડ્યો હતો.
ઓસ્ટ્રિયાની તેમની પ્રથમ મુલાકાતને અર્થપૂર્ણ ગણાવતા પીએમ મોદીએ કહ્યું કે 41 વર્ષ બાદ કોઈ ભારતીય વડાપ્રધાન દેશની મુલાકાતે આવ્યા છે. "આ લાંબી રાહ એક ઐતિહાસિક અવસરે પૂરી થઈ છે. ભારત અને ઓસ્ટ્રિયા તેમની મિત્રતાના 75 વર્ષની ઉજવણી કરી રહ્યા છે," તેમણે કહ્યું. "ભારત અને ઑસ્ટ્રિયા ભૌગોલિક રીતે બે અલગ-અલગ છેડે છે, પરંતુ અમારી પાસે ઘણી સમાનતાઓ છે. લોકશાહી બંને દેશોને જોડે છે. આપણા સહિયારા મૂલ્યો સ્વતંત્રતા, સમાનતા, બહુલતા અને કાયદાના શાસન માટે આદર છે.
આપણા સમાજ બહુસાંસ્કૃતિક અને બહુભાષી છે. બંને દેશો ઉજવણી કરે છે.
વિવિધતા, અને આ મૂલ્યોને પ્રતિબિંબિત કરવા માટેનું એક મોટું માધ્યમ ચૂંટણી છે," તેમણે 'મોદી, મોદી' ના નારા વચ્ચે કહ્યું.
તાજેતરમાં પૂર્ણ થયેલી સામાન્ય ચૂંટણીઓને યાદ કરતાં પીએમ મોદીએ કહ્યું કે 650 મિલિયન લોકોએ તેમના મતદાનના અધિકારનો ઉપયોગ કર્યો અને આટલી મોટી ચૂંટણી હોવા છતાં ચૂંટણીના પરિણામો ગણતરીના કલાકોમાં જ જાહેર થઈ ગયા. "તે આપણી ચૂંટણી તંત્ર અને લોકશાહીની શક્તિ છે," તેમણે કહ્યું. ઓસ્ટ્રિયામાં 31,000થી વધુ ભારતીયો રહે છે. અહીંના ભારતીય દૂતાવાસના જણાવ્યા અનુસાર દેશમાં ભારતીય વિદ્યાર્થીઓની સંખ્યા 450 થી વધુ છે.

For thousands of years, we have been sharing our knowledge and expertise," he said.

વિયેનામાં ભારતીય સમુદાયને સંબોધતા પીએમ મોદીએ એમ પણ કહ્યું કે ભારત સર્વશ્રેષ્ઠ, સૌથી તેજસ્વી, સૌથી મોટી સિદ્ધિ પ્રાપ્ત કરવા અને ઉચ્ચતમ સીમાચિહ્નો સુધી પહોંચવા માટે કામ કરી રહ્યું છે.

ભારતે વિશ્વને 'બુદ્ધ' આપ્યા છે, 'યુદ્ધ' નહીં: ઓસ્ટ્રિયામાં PM મોદી

वियना: प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी ने बुधवार को कहा कि भारत ने दुनिया को 'बुद्ध' दिया है, 'युद्ध' नहीं, जिसका मतलब है कि इसने हमेशा शांति और समृद्धि दी है और इसलिए देश 21वीं सदी में अपनी भूमिका मजबूत करने जा रहा है। वियना में भारतीय समुदाय को संबोधित करते हुए पीएम मोदी ने यह भी कहा कि भारत सबसे अच्छा, सबसे प्रतिभाशाली बनने, सबसे बड़ी उपलब्धि हासिल करने और सबसे ऊंचे मुकाम हासिल करने की दिशा में काम कर रहा है।&nbsp;
पीएम मोदी ने ऑस्ट्रिया में कहा, "हजारों सालों से हम अपना ज्ञान और विशेषज्ञता साझा करते रहे हैं। हमने 'युद्ध' नहीं दिया, हमने दुनिया को 'बुद्ध' दिया। भारत ने हमेशा शांति और समृद्धि दी है और इसलिए भारत 21वीं सदी में अपनी भूमिका मजबूत करने जा रहा है।" मॉस्को से यहां पहुंचने के एक दिन बाद पीएम मोदी ने राष्ट्रपति व्लादिमीर पुतिन के साथ बातचीत के दौरान यूक्रेन संघर्ष का शांतिपूर्ण समाधान खोजने के महत्व पर प्रकाश डाला।
ऑस्ट्रिया की अपनी पहली यात्रा को "सार्थक" बताते हुए पीएम मोदी ने कहा कि 41 साल बाद कोई भारतीय प्रधानमंत्री देश का दौरा कर रहा है। उन्होंने कहा, "यह लंबा इंतजार एक ऐतिहासिक अवसर पर खत्म हुआ है। भारत और ऑस्ट्रिया अपनी दोस्ती के 75 साल पूरे होने का जश्न मना रहे हैं।" "भौगोलिक रूप से भारत और ऑस्ट्रिया दो अलग-अलग छोर पर हैं, लेकिन हमारे बीच कई समानताएं हैं।
लोकतंत्र दोनों देशों को जोड़ता है। हमारे साझा मूल्य स्वतंत्रता, समानता, बहुलवाद और कानून के शासन के प्रति सम्मान हैं। हमारे समाज बहुसांस्कृतिक और बहुभाषी हैं। दोनों देश विविधता का जश्न मनाते हैं और इन मूल्यों को दर्शाने का एक बड़ा माध्यम चुनाव हैं," उन्होंने 'मोदी, मोदी' के नारों के बीच कहा।
हाल ही में संपन्न आम चुनावों को याद करते हुए, पीएम मोदी ने कहा कि 650 मिलियन लोगों ने अपने मताधिकार का प्रयोग किया और इतने बड़े चुनाव के बावजूद, चुनाव के परिणाम कुछ ही घंटों में घोषित किए गए। उन्होंने कहा, "यह हमारी चुनावी मशीनरी और लोकतंत्र की शक्ति है।" ऑस्ट्रिया में 31,000 से अधिक भारतीय रह रहे हैं। यहां भारतीय दूतावास के अनुसार, देश में भारतीय छात्रों की संख्या 450 से अधिक है।

वियना में भारतीय समुदाय को संबोधित करते हुए प्रधानमंत्री मोदी ने यह भी कहा कि भारत सर्वश्रेष्ठ, प्रतिभाशाली बनने, सबसे बड़ी उपलब्धियां हासिल करने और उच्चतम मील के पत्थर तक पहुंचने की दिशा में काम कर रहा है।

भारत ने दुनिया को 'बुद्ध' दिया है, 'युद्ध' नहीं: प्रधानमंत्री मोदी ऑस्ट्रिया में

Addressing the Indian community in Vienna, PM Modi also said that India is working towards being the best, the brightest, achieving the biggest and reaching the highest milestones.

India Has Given 'Buddha' To The World, Not ' Yuddha ': PM Modi In Austria

Gujarat Congress Internal Dispute: The countdown to the 2027 Gujarat Assembly election has already begun. The 2029 Lok Sabha election is not far away either. The Congress high command is making claims of a change of power in Gujarat. Rahul Gandhi is talking about rebuilding the Gujarat Congress from the ground up. There is talk of removing the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; and putting the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; on the field. But looking at the current state of the Gujarat Congress, one question cannot be avoided: before entering the race, will the Congress even be able to get its own team to stand in one line? Before declaring war against the BJP, the Congress is caught in a political battle within its own house. The question is bitter, but necessary: if a party cannot create unity within its own organisation, how does it expect to take on the BJP&rsquo;s formidable organisational machinery in Gujarat?
Leaders Changed, But Why Didn&rsquo;t the Problem? Keeping the 2027 Assembly and 2029 Lok Sabha elections in mind, the Congress has begun making changes to its Gujarat organisation. The high command wanted to remove the old and inactive structure and bring forward leaders with the ability to fight elections. But when a party repeatedly needs to change its state in-charge, the question becomes bigger than the capability of the individual holding the post. Mukul Wasnik was replaced by Randeep Singh Surjewala as Gujarat Congress in-charge. With the new in-charge came expectations of a new direction, a new strategy and greater discipline within the organisation. Yet, barely had Surjewala taken charge when a controversy erupted within Banaskantha Congress over the organisational structure. That is where the Congress&rsquo;s real trouble begins.
A Symptom of Congress&rsquo;s Organisational Illness Banaskantha is not an ordinary constituency. It is the only Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat that the Congress won in the 2024 general election. That makes it the biggest symbol of political hope for the Congress in Gujarat. So when differences emerge over organisational posts and responsibilities in precisely this constituency, when questions are raised over decisions taken by the state leadership, and when the district organisation itself becomes a subject of controversy, this cannot simply be dismissed as a &lsquo;local dispute&rsquo;. It is a symptom of the Congress&rsquo;s organisational illness. And if this illness continues until 2027, the BJP will be the direct beneficiary. The Congress needs to understand one basic reality: elections are not won through posters, press conferences and speeches by big leaders. Elections are won at the booth. The BJP&rsquo;s organisational machinery is active right down to the booth level. To challenge it, the Congress needs a strong network of workers, clearly defined responsibilities and a united district-level organisation. But here, the very formation of the district organisation is becoming a source of controversy. So where exactly will the Congress find the strength to challenge the BJP at the booth level?
&lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; or Obstacles in Each Other&rsquo;s Way? Rahul Gandhi talks about identifying the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; in Gujarat and bringing the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; to the forefront. It sounds attractive. But politics does not work that way. Simply choosing good horses does not guarantee victory in a race. The horses must run together rather than pull each other down. The direction of the race must be clear. And the coaching staff cannot be fighting among themselves. Only then can a team win. The Gujarat Congress&rsquo;s problem may not simply be about &lsquo;which leader should be promoted&rsquo;. The real problem is whether the leaders who are brought forward will actually work together. Mukul Wasnik is gone. Randeep Singh Surjewala has arrived. The state in-charge has changed. But if factionalism remains unchanged, internal power struggles remain unchanged, coordination between the district and state organisations remains weak, and organisational decisions themselves continue to trigger controversy, then what exactly is the Congress talking about when it talks of change? Changing faces will not change the Congress&rsquo;s fortunes. Its working style must change. Leadership accountability must be fixed. Factionalism must be brought under control. And above all, the party worker must be given confidence that the Congress is genuinely one team. Because if the Congress wants to fight the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other.
When Will the Political Infighting Within Gujarat Congress End? The biggest illusion for the Congress in the 2027 election would be to assume that public anger against the BJP will automatically translate into Congress votes. Politics does not work that simply. Reaching voters requires sustained ground-level work. It requires a booth-level organisation. It requires coordination among local leaders. It requires worker morale. And above all, it requires leadership running in one direction until election day. If even one of these five links is weak, the entire electoral calculation can collapse. For the Congress, this is no longer the time for experiments. It is the time for decisions. How many state in-charges will be changed? How many meetings will be held? How many times will the organisational structure be reshuffled? The question is no longer who the next Gujarat Congress in-charge will be. The real question is: when will the political infighting within the Gujarat Congress finally end? If every new in-charge is going to inherit the same old disputes, factionalism and internal resentment, then how can a new Congress emerge simply because a new face has arrived?
Will &lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; Remain Just Another Political Slogan? If the Congress wants to win Gujarat, it must first win within its own organisation. It must win the trust of its workers. It must win the confidence of its district organisations. It must bring its leaders onto one platform. Otherwise, the Congress will lose its internal battle before its fight against the BJP has even begun. And then the talk of &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; will remain nothing more than another political slogan. The Congress has very little time left in the race for power in 2027. If it wants to take on the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other. Because power in Gujarat will not be won through statements from the Gandhi family. It will be won through organisational strength on the ground. The final question is simple: Is the Congress preparing to defeat the BJP, or is it still calculating whom it needs to defeat inside its own house? Want to win Gujarat? Then first, win the Gujarat Congress.

Congress has set its sights on defeating the BJP in Gujarat. But there’s a bigger battle brewing inside its own house.

Congress Wants to Defeat BJP in Gujarat, But Who Will Save Congress From Itself?

Gujarat High Court Launches Study Circle for Advocates: In a major initiative to strengthen the professional skills and legal knowledge of young advocates, the High Court of Gujarat, in collaboration with the Gujarat State Judicial Academy (GSJA), has announced the launch of a Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop) for Advocates Practicing before the High Court of Gujarat with up to 10 years of practice. The programme will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad.
Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal Announces Study Circle The initiative was announced by Gujarat High Court Chief Justice and Patron-in-Chief of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, Justice Sunita Agarwal, after the Flag Hoisting Ceremony held at the High Court Lawns on August 15. The announcement was made in the presence of Justice Bhargav D. Karia, Judge of the Gujarat High Court and President of GSJA, members of the Board of Governors of GSJA, other High Court judges, Senior Advocates and members of the Bar.
Focus on Legal Education and Professional Skills The new Study Circle is being introduced as a continuous legal learning and professional development programme for young members of the Bar. The initiative aims to enhance advocates&rsquo; understanding of legal principles, legal research, drafting and advocacy skills through direct interaction with Senior Advocates and subject experts. The programme is also expected to strengthen academic engagement between the Bench and the Bar and provide advocates with an opportunity to discuss important and evolving legal issues.
Justice Sunita Agarwal Highlights Importance of Continuous Learning Addressing the gathering, Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal highlighted the indispensable role of advocates in the administration of justice. She emphasized that continuous legal education has become increasingly important in an era of rapidly evolving jurisprudence. The Chief Justice also stressed that effective advocacy and strong legal research are essential components of a robust justice delivery system. She appreciated the efforts of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy in conceptualizing and developing the Study Circle programme.
Three Key Legal Modules in First Phase The first phase of the Study Circle will feature three major academic modules covering important areas of High Court practice. Module I will focus on the expanding contours of maintainability in writ jurisdiction under Article 226, an important area of constitutional and administrative law practice. Module II will cover the basic principles of Administrative Law and Second Appeals under Section 100 of the CPC, with particular emphasis on the Doctrine of Substantial Question of Law. Module III will focus on Criminal Law Jurisdiction, particularly the inherent powers of High Courts under Section 482 of the CrPC and Section 528 of the BNSS, including their scope, limitations and principles of judicial discipline.
Study Circle to Be Held Fortnightly The Study Circle is proposed to be conducted on a fortnightly basis, providing advocates with regular opportunities for legal learning and professional interaction. Future sessions will cover a wide range of subjects, including Constitutional Law, Writ Jurisdiction, Arbitration and Conciliation Law, Commercial Law, Public Interest Litigation, Service Law, Taxation Law, Admiralty Jurisdiction, Legal Ethics and Drafting Skills. The programme will also address contemporary legal issues that are particularly relevant to advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court.
Registration to Begin Soon Registration for the Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop Series) for Advocates Practicing in the High Court of Gujarat &ndash; Series of Academic Modules 2026 will begin shortly through the official website of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy. The programme is specifically intended for advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court who have up to 10 years of professional practice.
Registration Fee The registration fee for the Study Circle has been fixed at ₹100 per programme, which will be paid by each participating advocate. The workshops will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad. Advocates attending the workshops will also receive Certificates of Participation.
Major Step Towards Strengthening Justice Delivery The Gujarat High Court and Gujarat State Judicial Academy's new Study Circle is being viewed as a significant step towards professional excellence and development of the legal fraternity. By bringing young advocates, Senior Advocates and legal experts together for regular academic discussions, the initiative aims to improve legal knowledge, research and advocacy skills while strengthening the Bench-Bar relationship. The broader objective is to contribute towards a more effective and efficient justice delivery system in Gujarat.

Study Circle Launched for Advocates With Up to 10 Years of Practice

Gujarat High Court Big Move

A chilling video of the accused in the Indore MBA student murder case has sparked outrage after he was seen smiling and appearing unconcerned when questioned about the crime.
The accused, Piyush Dhanotia, was arrested for allegedly raping and murdering his 25-year-old classmate in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Police said he strangled the woman on February 10 inside his rented accommodation and later locked the room before fleeing. Her partially decomposed body was discovered days later after residents complained of a foul smell.
However, what has intensified public anger is the accused&rsquo;s demeanour. In a video that surfaced online, Dhanotia is seen smiling when reporters ask him why he committed the crime. When pressed for answers, he responded dismissively, saying that what had happened had already happened and that he would speak at the right time. Throughout the interaction, he showed no visible sign of regret.
Police officials said he admitted during interrogation that he forced the woman into sexual acts and killed her when she resisted, though he has reportedly changed his version multiple times. Investigators are also examining allegations that he circulated objectionable videos of the victim in their college WhatsApp group.
The victim&rsquo;s father has accused the accused of blackmailing his daughter with obscene images and attempting to extort money.
As the investigation continues, the accused&rsquo;s apparent lack of remorse captured on camera has become a focal point of the case, drawing sharp reactions both online and offline.
&nbsp;

Video shows MBA student murder accused laughing amid probe

Indore Murder Accused Smiles on Camera

Galgotias University has landed in controversy after showcasing a robotic dog at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 that was widely believed to be developed by its students. The robot, however, was later identified as a commercially available product made by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics.
The backlash began after a video from the summit went viral, in which a university professor introduced the robot dog, named &ldquo;Orion,&rdquo; and referred to it as being developed at the institution&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence. Social media users were quick to point out that the machine closely resembled Unitree&rsquo;s quadruped robots, which are already available globally for research and industrial use.
Unitree is known for manufacturing advanced four-legged robots designed for tasks such as inspection, obstacle navigation and research applications. Its products are often compared to models developed by global robotics players.
Following the uproar, the Greater Noida-based university issued a clarification stating that it never claimed to have built the robot. It maintained that the robodog was purchased as part of its AI investment initiatives and is being used as a research and learning tool for students. Another faculty member present at the summit reiterated that the display had been misinterpreted and that there was no attempt to conceal the original manufacturer&rsquo;s branding.
Despite the clarification, sources familiar with the developments said the university was asked to vacate its pavilion at the summit amid mounting criticism. The institution, however, denied receiving any formal directive from the organisers or the ministry.
Notably, the robotic dog was removed from display shortly after the controversy escalated online.

Robodog row sparks backlash at India AI Impact Summit 2026

Galgotias Asked to Exit AI Summit

Actor Sidharth Malhotra is mourning the loss of his father, Sunil Malhotra, who passed away recently. The actor shared the news with an emotional message on social media. His wife, Kiara Advani, has now also paid a heartfelt tribute to her father-in-law.
On Wednesday, Kiara took to Instagram to share pictures from her wedding reception, where she and Sidharth were seen smiling alongside his parents. In a deeply personal note, she remembered Sunil Malhotra as a warm, generous, and steady presence in the family. She reflected on how he welcomed her with open arms and unconditional love, describing his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Kiara wrote that his stories, laughter, and quiet strength would remain with her forever. She added that his legacy of integrity and gentleness lives on through his children and grandchildren. Concluding her message, she expressed that he would always be loved and remembered.
The couple is currently in Delhi with their family during this difficult period. Members of the film industry extended their condolences online. Jacqueline Fernandez offered prayers, while Karan Johar and Manish Malhotra shared messages of support.
On the professional front, Sidharth will next appear in Vvan: Force of The Forest, directed by Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Mishra and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures. The film also stars Tamannaah Bhatia and is slated for release later this year.
Kiara, meanwhile, awaits the release of Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film features Yash, Nayanthara, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, and Rukmini Vasanth in key roles. The film is expected to release on March 19, alongside Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar.

Actor pens heartfelt note after Sunil Malhotra’s passing

Kiara Mourns Sidharth’s Father

Days after 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra lost his life in a fatal SUV crash in Delhi&rsquo;s Dwarka, the father of the 17-year-old accused has expressed regret over the incident, stating that his family is &ldquo;deeply grief-stricken.&rdquo; He also confirmed that the Scorpio SUV involved in the accident is part of his commercial transport business.
The crash occurred around 11:50 am on February 3 near Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management in Sector 11, Dwarka. According to police, the SUV rammed into a Yamaha R15 motorcycle, killing Sahil on the spot. The vehicle then struck a parked Swift Dzire, injuring cab driver Ajit Singh.
Post-mortem findings revealed that Sahil sustained a fractured skull, multiple rib fractures, and an elbow injury due to the high-impact collision.
The minor driver was detained at the scene and booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rash driving, negligence causing death, and endangering life. He was later presented before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to an observation home. On February 10, he was granted interim bail to appear for his Class 10 board examinations.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police registered a separate case against the boy&rsquo;s father under Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which holds guardians or vehicle owners accountable when a minor commits a traffic offence.
Speaking to the media after being questioned, the father said he was not in the city at the time of the accident and was unaware that his son had taken the vehicle. He stated that the family has cooperated with investigators and provided all necessary documents.
Sahil&rsquo;s mother alleged that her son was killed by a &ldquo;reckless teen&rdquo; just minutes away from his workplace. The 23-year-old, who worked part-time at an insurance firm, had plans to pursue higher studies in the United Kingdom later this year.

Minor held in SUV crash; father booked under MV Act provisions

Dwarka Crash: Accused’s Father Apologises

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday set aside a March 2025 judgment of the Allahabad High Court that had ruled that grabbing a minor girl&rsquo;s breasts and dragging her under a culvert did not amount to an attempt to rape. The apex court termed the ruling a &ldquo;patently erroneous&rdquo; application of criminal law principles.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria, held that the high court had incorrectly reduced the charges from attempt to rape under Section 376 read with Section 511 of the IPC and Section 18 of the POCSO Act to lesser offences. The court restored the original summons issued by the Special POCSO Court in Kasganj, clarifying that its observations were prima facie and would not influence the trial&rsquo;s outcome.
Rejecting the high court&rsquo;s reasoning that the accused had merely &ldquo;prepared&rdquo; to commit rape, the Supreme Court reiterated the settled distinction between preparation and attempt, noting that an attempt begins when intent moves into execution. Based on the allegations, including forcibly taking the minor on a motorcycle, dragging her near a culvert, and fleeing only after she screamed, the Bench held that a prima facie case of attempt to rape was clearly made out.
The proceedings were initiated suo motu after senior advocate Shobha Gupta raised concerns over the high court&rsquo;s reasoning. The Supreme Court had earlier stayed the controversial observations and later the entire judgment.
Beyond correcting the legal error, the court addressed a broader concern about insensitivity in judicial handling of sexual offence cases. It requested the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal to constitute a five-member expert committee to frame guidelines aimed at fostering compassion and sensitivity in courts, especially in cases involving minors and vulnerable victims.
The committee, to be chaired by former Supreme Court judge Justice Aniruddha Bose, has been directed to submit a report within three months. The guidelines are to be drafted in simple, accessible language and tailored to Indian realities to ensure they are understandable to victims and laypersons alike.

Top court restores rape attempt charge, seeks sensitivity guidelines

SC Sets Aside HC Order in POCSO Case

India&rsquo;s merchandise imports from Russia plunged by over 40% in January 2026, falling to about $2.86 billion from $4.81 billion a year earlier, official trade figures show, largely reflecting a steep reduction in crude oil purchases.
Crude oil typically accounts for roughly 80% of India&rsquo;s imports from Russia, and estimates suggest purchases of Russian crude last month were significantly lower than in previous years. Other goods imported from Russia include coal, fertilisers, iron, pulses, and precious stones, but these have not offset the slump in oil imports. The downturn in oil imports intensified after mid-2025, following punitive tariffs levied by the United States on Indian goods connected to purchases of Russian oil and ongoing diplomatic pressure. India&rsquo;s refiners, including some major private and state firms, have substantially reduced or halted buying Russian crude as they explore alternative sources.
In early February 2026, Washington eased the additional tariff on Indian products after New Delhi signalled a commitment to &ldquo;stop directly or indirectly importing&rdquo; Russian oil and to increase purchases of energy products from the United States, as well as broadening ties in global energy markets.
Analysts expect the shift in crude sourcing to continue, with Indian refiners eyeing other suppliers, including Middle Eastern and Venezuelan grades, as part of broader diversification strategies.

January sees 40% fall in Russia merchandise imports amid crude cutbacks

India’s Russia Imports Drop Sharply

A 27-year-old man has been arrested in Andhra Pradesh&rsquo;s Annamayya district for allegedly abducting and murdering a seven-year-old girl from his neighbourhood in Madanapalle town.
The child had been playing outside her home on Sunday evening when she went missing, sparking panic among her family and local residents. A missing complaint was filed the following morning, prompting an intensive search operation led by district police.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage from across the town, which reportedly showed the suspect, a neighbour living opposite the victim&rsquo;s house, taking the child into his residence. Acting on this lead, police searched the house on Tuesday morning.
During the inspection, officers discovered the girl&rsquo;s body concealed inside a water storage drum within the premises. The accused was present at the house at the time and was immediately taken into custody.
Preliminary findings suggest the child was killed inside the residence on Sunday night, and her body was hidden thereafter. Authorities are probing whether sexual assault occurred before the murder, with confirmation pending post-mortem and forensic examination results.
Following the discovery, tensions escalated in the area. Residents and family members staged a protest on the Madanapalle highway, briefly preventing police from shifting the body to the government hospital for autopsy and demanding strict punishment for the accused.
Police have stated that all possible angles, including prior allegations of inappropriate behaviour by the suspect, are being examined as the investigation continues.

Child’s body found in drum; protest erupts in Madanapalle town

7-Year-Old Killed, Neighbour Arrested

The United States and Iran held their second round of indirect negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, as diplomatic efforts continue amid heightened regional tensions. While both sides indicated forward movement in discussions, parallel military developments have added complexity to the fragile engagement.
Reports suggest the US has significantly reinforced its military presence in the Middle East. Over 50 advanced fighter aircraft, including F-35, F-22 and F-16 jets, were reportedly repositioned to the region within a 24-hour window. The deployment follows Washington&rsquo;s decision to send a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to Middle Eastern waters, underscoring its strategic posture.
Despite the show of force, the Geneva discussions were described as substantive and focused. Iranian officials signalled that preliminary understandings were reached on broad guiding principles that could shape a future agreement. However, they cautioned that drafting and finalising any deal would take time.
On the American side, officials maintained that the talks unfolded largely as anticipated. Washington&rsquo;s core objective remains preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a position repeatedly emphasised by senior US leadership.
Meanwhile, regional tensions persisted. Iran temporarily restricted navigation in parts of the Strait of Hormuz during a naval drill, highlighting the waterway&rsquo;s vulnerability. Additionally, US leaders suggested that differences remain over key conditions laid out by President Donald Trump.
As diplomacy continues, both nations appear to be balancing dialogue with deterrence, leaving the broader geopolitical landscape uncertain.

Second Geneva round shows progress as military moves raise stakes

Vienna News