The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has chosen to keep its repo rate unchanged at 6.5 percent during its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on February 8. This marks the sixth consecutive meeting where the central bank has opted for status quo, emphasizing the need for continued dis-inflationary measures amidst uncertain food prices and strong domestic activity. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das highlighted expectations of steady global growth in 2024 and further moderation in inflation. The decision comes as retail inflation remains within the RBI's comfort zone of 4-6 percent. The committee aims to balance inflation targets with support for economic growth.

Uttarakhand implements a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) with significant reforms in divorce, inheritance, and live-in relationships. Divorce grounds now include equality for men and women, with custody rights favoring mothers of children under 5. Voidable marriages can be annulled, and no divorce is permitted within one year unless under exceptional circumstances. Inheritance laws grant equal property rights, abolishing Hindu coparcenary system. Live-in couples must register with the Registrar and inform upon breakup, facing penalties for non-compliance. Tribal communities are exempt, but LGBTQ+ rights are excluded, limiting definitions to heterosexual couples. The UCC aims for progressive legal reforms in personal matters.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, in his first meeting with PM Narendra Modi since joining the NDA, assures stability, saying there will be no more alliances switches. Kumar, who met BJP leaders Amit Shah and JP Nadda, emphasizes the enduring BJP-JDU partnership since 1995. Ahead of his government's trust vote, Kumar downplays seat-sharing discussions, noting the BJP leaders are informed. The focus shifts to Bihar Assembly dissolution, potentially aligning with Lok Sabha polls. The meetings come amid complex political dynamics, including Rajya Sabha seat elections and looming Assembly expansion in Bihar.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismisses Hamas's ceasefire terms, aiming for "total victory" within months. Talks between negotiators continue amid escalating tensions. Netanyahu labels Hamas's conditions as "bizarre" and asserts negotiations are unproductive. Despite international efforts, including a US-backed proposal, the conflict persists. The rejection signals Netanyahu's commitment to an assertive approach, while Hamas remains prepared for all options. Egyptian-mediated negotiations are expected to resume in Cairo. The proposed ceasefire terms outline phased exchanges and reconstruction efforts, emphasizing the complex challenges in reaching a resolution in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Protests erupted in Kerala as youth organizations, including ABVP and DYFI, demanded action against NIT Calicut professor A Shaija for praising Godse on Facebook. Police used water cannons to disperse the Youth Congress and DYFI members attempting to enter the campus. Shaija, invoking controversy, expressed pride in Godse on the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi's assassination. ABVP led a march burning Godse's effigy, while other student unions joined the calls for the professor's accountability. IPC Section 153 was invoked against Shaija. The incident highlights tensions surrounding Godse's legacy and freedom of expression in academic settings.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren has postponed the cabinet expansion ceremony to February 16, originally slated for Thursday. Minister Alamgir Alam cited Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in the state on February 14 and 15 as the reason for the rescheduling. Soren, who assumed office on February 1, will officially expand his cabinet on the new date. The state can have a maximum of 12 ministers, including the chief minister. Selection of candidates for the council of ministers is yet to be decided by the Congress and JMM.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan assured additional military aid for Ukraine, emphasizing its urgency at a NATO conference. Sullivan, alongside NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, stressed the necessity of continued support. Despite Republican opposition in Congress, Sullivan remains committed, stating, "Time is of the essence." Stoltenberg echoed the sentiment, urging Congress to agree on vital aid. The funding delay, tied to immigration issues by Republicans, draws criticism from President Biden, who attributes it to Donald Trump. As the two-year mark of Russia's invasion approaches, the situation underscores the importance of sustained international support for Kyiv.

As King Charles III and Princess Kate face health challenges, Prince William steps in for his father, leading an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle. This marks William's first public engagement since mid-January, when Kate underwent planned abdominal surgery. Meanwhile, Princess Anne maintains her busy schedule, visiting a community center in Nottinghamshire. Queen Camilla supports Charles following his cancer diagnosis, while Prince Edward and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, continue their royal engagements. The royal family remains active as Charles and Kate recuperate, with no set timeline for their return to public duties.          

On the eve of Pakistan's parliamentary elections, two separate explosions targeted poll candidates in Balochistan, leaving 25 dead and over 40 injured. The first blast struck Pishin district, followed by a second outside the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) office in Killa Saifullah district. No group has claimed responsibility. Balochistan's caretaker minister condemned the attacks as an attempt to destabilize, affirming the election process will proceed unaffected. Despite heightened security measures, the bombings highlight ongoing challenges in the restive region. Pakistan's election commission seeks immediate reports on the incidents, aiming to ensure a peaceful electoral process.

Star Indian batsman Virat Kohli is set to miss the third and fourth Tests against England, citing personal reasons. After withdrawing from the first two Tests, Kohli's absence raises concerns for Team India's lineup. The third Test is scheduled at Rajkot's Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium from February 15, followed by the penultimate Test at JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi from February 23. While doubts persist over Kohli's availability for the fifth Test in Dharmasala, selectors anticipate his return. Meanwhile, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to recover for the upcoming matches. Kohli's decision stems from impending family obligations, confirmed by AB de Villiers on his YouTube channel.