In recent developments, several key events have captured the attention of the nation. Here's a concise overview of the top stories:
India Poised to Gain Competitive Edge in the US Market
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has asserted that Indian exporters are set to enjoy a "competitive advantage" in the United States market, thanks to the interim trade framework. Goyal highlighted that the 18% tariff imposed on Indian goods compares favorably to the higher duties faced by other nations, such as China's 35% tariff and other Asian countries facing levies of 19% or more. This new tariff structure follows an executive order signed that reduces tariffs on Indian imports to 18%, a rollback from the previous 25% additional duty imposed in August 2025. This earlier duty, layered on top of a 25% reciprocal tariff, had pushed effective duties on some Indian exports as high as 50%. Goyal has also dismissed criticism regarding the trade deal, assuring that adequate safeguards are in place to protect the interests of Indian farmers and the domestic industry from any significant increase in imports. He anticipates that the trade deal will ultimately benefit Indian farmers, who are already exporting approximately $55 billion worth of agricultural and fish products. Moreover, India is confident in its capacity to purchase $500 billion worth of goods from the U.S. over the next five years, including energy products, aircraft and parts, precious metals, technology, and coking coal. Goyal considers this figure conservative, given India's aspiration to become a $30 trillion economy.
Arrests Made in Surajkund Swing Collapse Case
In the aftermath of the tragic swing collapse at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, the Faridabad police have arrested two individuals: the swing operator, Mohammad Shakir, and one of his staff members, Nitesh. The incident, which occurred on February 7, 2026, resulted in the death of Haryana Police Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who was trying to rescue injured visitors, and injuries to 13 others. Inspector Prasad was honored with the Police Medal by the Haryana governor in 2019-2020 and had served in the Haryana Armed Police since 1989. A case has been registered at Surajkund police station against Mohammad Shakir, proprietor of Himachal Fun Care Company, under sections of culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has directed officials to ensure strict adherence to safety standards at public events and has announced financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh each for those seriously injured. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the incident, focusing on negligence and safety compliance. The fair will continue, with the swing area cordoned off.
Other Headlines
- Private Aircraft Crash: A trainer aircraft crashed in Baleshwar, Karnataka, injuring two pilots.
- Assam News: Assam has referred the case involving Gaurav Gogoi's alleged Pakistan links to the Union Home Ministry, raising national security concerns.
- Audi Accident: A speeding Audi car killed three family members in Madhya Pradesh’s Rewa.
- Bengaluru Incident: Two women in Bengaluru were taken into custody after allegedly assaulting a cab driver and causing a public disturbance.
- India-US Trade Deal: Farmer groups have voiced concerns about the India-US trade deal and have called for a nationwide strike on February 12.
- Manipur CM: Yumnam Khemchand Singh is expected to be the next Manipur CM and has been named legislative party leader.