In a monumental feat, Tata Group has crossed the ₹30 lakh crore mark in market capitalization, becoming the first Indian conglomerate to achieve this milestone. Fueled by soaring interest in key stocks like Tata Consultancy Services, Tata Motors, Tata Power, and Indian Hotels, the conglomerate's combined market value soared. Despite some declines in certain subsidiaries, notable gains have been recorded, with TCS hitting a new high. The surge in Tata Power is attributed to government emphasis on renewable energy, while Indian Hotels' robust performance reflects optimistic industry dynamics. Analysts anticipate sustained growth, reinforcing the conglomerate's position as an industry leader.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah revealed plans to erect fencing along the entire 1,643-kilometer-long Indo-Myanmar border to enhance surveillance capabilities. This initiative aims to fortify the border, with a 10 km stretch already fenced in Moreh, Manipur. Additionally, a patrol track will be established to facilitate better monitoring. Two pilot projects utilizing a Hybrid Surveillance System (HSS) are underway, each covering a 1 km stretch in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. Manipur's Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, emphasized the necessity for border security, attributing past ethnic conflicts to porous borders. The move aligns with efforts to address illegal immigration and bolster national security.      

Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam dismisses the viability of the INDIA bloc, stating it no longer exists. Criticizing the opposition alliance's efficacy, Krishnam claims it faced setbacks since its inception and is now defunct. Referring to Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's actions, Krishnam suggests that the alliance's demise is confirmed. Known for recent critiques of Congress decisions, Krishnam's comments highlight internal disarray within the party. Additionally, his invitation to PM Modi for a religious event adds a twist to political dynamics. The INDIA bloc's collapse signals challenges for opposition unity against the ruling government.

A multinational company in Hong Kong fell prey to a $25.6 million scam orchestrated using deepfake technology. Perpetrators manipulated employees through a deepfake video conference, with all participants, except the victim, digitally created. The victim, a finance department employee, received a phishing message purportedly from the CFO, instructing a secret transaction. Succumbing to convincing deepfake representations during a group call, the victim made 15 transfers totaling $25 million to Hong Kong bank accounts. The elaborate scheme unfolded over a week, with scammers imitating voices and appearances with startling accuracy. Police investigations are ongoing.

The Lok Sabha has approved the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, targeting malpractices and irregularities in government recruitment exams with stringent penalties, including up to 10 years in jail and fines up to Rs 1 crore. Rejecting opposition amendments, the Bill aims to address loopholes in exam systems. It covers exams by UPSC, SSC, Railway Recruitment Boards, and others. Those involved in organised crimes face harsher punishment and asset forfeiture. Exam centres will be solely responsible, with violations treated seriously. Individuals may escape liability by proving ignorance and preventive measures. The legislation aims for comprehensive exam integrity.

Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami introduced the Uniform Civil Code in the state assembly, aiming to standardize personal laws for residents, excluding Scheduled Tribes. The code encompasses various facets of civil life, including marriage, divorce, live-in relationships, and intestate succession. Under the code, marriage regulations stipulate a minimum age, prohibited relationships, and mandatory registration within 60 days, with penalties for non-compliance. Live-in relationships require registration and entail legal obligations, while intestate succession ensures equitable property distribution among relatives. The state will appoint authorities to oversee property disputes and ensure adherence to the code's provisions, marking a significant legal reform in Uttarakhand.

Fans expressed fury as Lionel Messi remained benched during Inter Miami's match in Hong Kong, prompting chants of "refund" from disappointed spectators. Despite Inter Miami's 4-1 victory, anger overshadowed the game as Messi, plagued by muscle inflammation, failed to make an appearance. Inter Miami head coach Gerardo Martino cited Messi's health concerns, but fans questioned why he didn't at least acknowledge the crowd. Organizers withdrew a government funding application worth $2 million, following threats from Hong Kong officials. The government had expected Messi to play at least 45 minutes, seeking to boost tourism post-pandemic. Messi's participation in future matches remains uncertain.

An Air Force officer from Assam, Saumya Deep Das, has served a legal notice to the makers of the film 'Fighter,' starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, over a kissing scene featuring the actors in Indian Air Force uniforms. Das claims the scene is disrespectful to the IAF. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the action-drama film revolves around two fighter pilots posted in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite featuring patriotic themes and real-life events like the Pulwama attack and Balakot airstrike, the scene has sparked controversy. 'Fighter,' released 12 days ago, is on track to surpass Rs 350 crore in worldwide collections.

Priyanka Gandhi, Congress general secretary, condemned Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly misrepresenting Jawaharlal Nehru's words during a parliamentary debate. Modi's remarks, suggesting Nehru viewed Indians as lazy and of low intelligence, drew sharp rebuke from Gandhi. She shared an audio clip of Nehru's speech, clarifying that he encouraged self-reliance and hard work post-independence. Gandhi argued that Modi's distortion not only tarnishes Nehru's legacy but also reflects bitterness towards India's freedom struggle. Criticizing the focus on one family, Modi's comments sparked a political spat, with Gandhi questioning the dignity of his position.

Ed-Tech giant Byju's has halted its three-year deal with football icon Lionel Messi as global brand ambassador, amidst a liquidity crisis, reported the Economic Times. Initially announced in November 2022, the $5-7 million per year deal aimed to promote equitable education through Byju's 'Education For All' initiative. The company allegedly paid Messi for the first year but is deliberating whether to terminate the contract prematurely. Byju's, grappling with financial woes, also refrained from renewing its contract with Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan. Additionally, a unit of Byju's in the US faced bankruptcy after defaulting on $1.2 billion in debt, further exacerbating the company's challenges.