In a final address to the 17th Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi showcased the accomplishments of his government, emphasizing a commitment to inclusivity. Addressing the marginalized transgender community, he noted transformative steps taken to provide them with an identity. Over 16,000 members have received identity cards, accessed loans under the Mudra scheme, and even received prestigious Padma Awards. PM Modi expressed pride in uplifting the community, stating they now live lives of respect. The achievements, including the abrogation of Article 370 and criminalization of Triple Talaq, mark a period of significant reforms during the 17th Lok Sabha.

Days after leaving the Congress, ex-Maharashtra Minister Baba Siddique has joined Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), dealing a blow to his former party. Siddique, a prominent face in Mumbai Congress for 48 years, criticized Congress, saying, "My condition in the Congress was how curry leaves are used to enhance the taste of food." This follows former Union Minister Milind Deora's recent shift to Shiv Sena. Siddique expressed his decision to join Ajit Pawar's group, emphasizing his journey from Congress to NCP. The move aligns with the Election Commission's recognition of Ajit Pawar's faction as the legitimate NCP.

Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, admitted to a Kolkata hospital after complaining of chest pain, has been diagnosed with an Ischemic Cerebrovascular Stroke, as per an official statement from Apollo Hospitals. The 73-year-old actor is reportedly conscious, well-oriented, and consuming a soft diet. His son, Mimoh, initially mentioned a routine checkup. Mithun, recently honored with the Padma Bhushan, is under the care of a medical team for further evaluation. The actor, known for his extensive career, was last seen as a judge on the dance reality show Dance Bangla Dance.

In a move to curb digital frauds, the government has blocked 1.4 lakh mobile numbers linked to financial frauds or cyber crimes. Financial Services Secretary Vivek Joshi chaired a meeting addressing cyber security in the financial sector. The Department of Telecom (DoT) introduced an AI-machine learning engine called ASTR to detect mobile connections based on fake documents. Over 500 arrests have been made, 3.08 lakh SIMs blocked, and measures taken to prevent malicious SMSs. The meeting emphasized the need for round-the-clock resources and customer awareness programs to tackle digital payment frauds effectively.

The Narendra Modi government has kickstarted the construction of a new civilian terminal at the Thoise airbase in Ladakh, near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. This marks India's commitment to providing air connectivity to remote border regions. Thoise, primarily a military airbase, will soon accommodate more passenger flights. The estimated Rs 130 crore project includes a centrally air-conditioned Domestic Passenger Terminal Building. The move aims to boost the local economy and meet the longstanding demand for a civilian airport in Thoise. Ladakh MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal has actively advocated for this development.

The US State Department has called for a thorough investigation into alleged irregularities and fraud in Pakistan's general elections, emphasizing the importance of timely and accurate results that reflect the will of the people. Addressing concerns over violence and internet disruptions during the voting process, spokesperson Mathew Miller condemned limitations on free speech and urged a comprehensive examination of electoral interference. While expressing commitment to working with the next Pakistani government, regardless of party, the US aims to strengthen partnerships, support the economy, and advocate for democratic values and human rights. Other nations also voice concerns over the electoral process.

In a significant blow to opposition unity, Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) announced plans to contest all 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab independently, with one seat in Chandigarh. Kejriwal criticized the Congress, alleging a lack of significant achievements during its rule in Punjab. The move adds to the turmoil within the opposition bloc, already shaken by Mamata Banerjee's solo stance in West Bengal and Nitish Kumar's departure to the BJP-led NDA. The decision complicates the electoral landscape, with uncertainties also looming over alliances in Uttar Pradesh. Kejriwal's AAP aims to replicate its successful Punjab Assembly election performance on the parliamentary stage.

India's batting stalwart Virat Kohli will continue to be absent from the ongoing England Test series due to personal reasons, as confirmed by the BCCI. Meanwhile, middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer has been axed following a series of low scores. The squad sees the return of injured duo Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul, pending fitness clearance. Additionally, newcomer Akash Deep replaces Saurabh Kumar. Sarfaraz Khan retains his spot despite not featuring in the playing XI previously. With the series leveled 1-1, India prepares for the third Test in Rajkot starting February 15, with the touring England team set to return from their break in Abu Dhabi.

Amidst Pakistan's election turmoil, independent candidates supported by jailed ex-PM Imran Khan's party seize the spotlight, outpacing Nawaz Sharif's faction. With 91 seats secured, Imran's allies edge ahead of PML-N's 71 and PPP's 53, shaping a fragmented political landscape. As both Khan and Sharif claim victory, tensions escalate, fueling uncertainty. Imran's AI-generated speech touts voter turnout as a triumph over Sharif's alleged "London plan." Meanwhile, Sharif calls for unity, acknowledging PML-N's lead. International scrutiny mounts with the US, UK, and EU urging investigations into electoral irregularities. Amidst allegations and alliances, Pakistan navigates a precarious path toward governance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the last sitting of the 17th Lok Sabha, highlighting achievements including the simultaneous pursuit of reform, performance, and transformation in the country over the past five years. PM Modi commended MPs for their response to the Covid challenge, citing a 30% salary reduction and cessation of canteen food subsidies. He also noted milestones such as scrapping Article 370 and passing the triple talaq bill. Reflecting on India's future, Modi envisioned a "Vikshit Bharat" (Developed India) in the next 25 years, emphasizing political aspirations and national dreams.