Lord Patten of Barnes, the chancellor of Oxford University, has announced his retirement as he approaches his 80th birthday. Known for championing free speech and criticizing safe spaces on campus, Patten has served in the role since 2003. A former Conservative Party chairman and last governor of Hong Kong, Patten emphasized the importance of free speech in universities. Expressing a "heavy heart," he stated his intention to step down at the end of the academic year, allowing for a smooth succession plan. Oxford's vice-chancellor, Prof Irene Tracey, lauded Patten's dedication to the university's global reputation.

India has dispatched 3.5 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Zambia as the country battles a severe cholera outbreak. With nearly 600 fatalities and over 15,000 infections since October 2023, Zambia is facing one of its worst health crises. The aid includes water purification supplies and ORS sachets to aid hydration. Despite efforts by Zambian authorities, challenges persist due to heavy rains hindering access to safe water and healthcare facilities. The fatality rate, at around 4 percent, exceeds the norm, prompting urgent action from international organizations like UNICEF. Efforts are ongoing to contain the outbreak and provide essential support to affected communities.          

As Pakistan approaches its election day, Nawaz Sharif's return to the political forefront has stirred controversy. Widely perceived as the military's favored candidate, Sharif's potential fourth term as prime minister sparks concerns about military influence. Despite his promises to address economic woes and foster peace with India, skepticism lingers over his ties with the military, which have oscillated over decades. Sharif's political trajectory, marked by periods of exile, imprisonment, and alleged backroom deals, underscores Pakistan's complex power dynamics. As citizens prepare to cast their votes, questions arise about the true nature of Pakistan's democracy and the role of its military establishment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended well wishes to Britain's King Charles III following his cancer diagnosis. The 75-year-old monarch, who recently began treatment for cancer, will temporarily suspend public engagements but continue with state affairs. Despite the diagnosis, he remains committed to his constitutional duties. The Buckingham Palace revealed that the cancer is unrelated to his previous benign prostate treatment. King Charles III, known for his generally good health, is optimistic about his treatment and aims to return to full public duties soon. The disclosure aims to prevent speculation and offer support to those affected by cancer worldwide.

Following Buckingham Palace's announcement of King Charles III's cancer diagnosis, Prince Harry plans to rush back to the UK to see his father. A source close to Prince Harry confirmed that he spoke with the monarch about his diagnosis and will travel to the UK in the coming days. Details about Meghan Markle's travel plans remain uncertain. King Charles III began treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer on Monday. The news comes amidst ongoing speculation about the relationship between Prince Harry and his father, which has reportedly been strained since Harry and Meghan's departure from royal duties.          

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's accusation of nepotism, questioning BJP's contribution to India's freedom struggle. During his reply to the Motion of Thanks in Lok Sabha, Kharge challenged Modi, asking, "Who from your party or your political descendants has sacrificed their lives for the freedom, unity and integrity of the country?" Kharge's retort came after Modi defended dynastic politics, citing examples within his party. The exchange highlighted tensions between BJP and Congress amid discussions on national unity and governance achievements. Kharge's response underscores the ongoing political discourse on leadership legitimacy and historical contributions.

With major elections on the horizon, Meta's policy on deep fake content faces scrutiny, as an oversight body calls for urgent updates. Following a decision on a manipulated video of US President Joe Biden, the board highlighted flaws in Meta's current approach, citing concerns about disinformation and electoral integrity. The board deemed Meta's policy "incoherent" and urged a shift towards addressing specific harms, rather than solely focusing on content creation methods. As AI-powered disinformation poses risks to global elections, the board emphasized the need for swift action, urging Meta to reconsider its policy ahead of the 2024 elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, responding to the "Motion of Thanks" to President Droupadi Murmu's address in Lok Sabha, launched a scathing attack on the Opposition, questioning their definition of minorities. PM Modi questioned whether women, farmers, and fishermen were not minorities for them, urging them to move away from divisive politics. He criticized the Opposition for their criticism of President Murmu's address, stating that the country needs a robust Opposition. Additionally, PM Modi took aim at family politics, indirectly targeting the Gandhi family. He expressed confidence in the Opposition's resolve to remain in opposition for an extended period, implying a lack of confidence in their electoral prospects.

Fintech giant Paytm dismisses reports of Enforcement Directorate investigations against the company or its CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma. Amidst RBI's crackdown, Paytm clarifies no probe initiated. RBI imposed a deadline for Paytm Payments Bank to halt transactions by February 29 due to alleged KYC violations. The company refutes accusations of FEMA violations and asserts compliance with RBI regulations. Despite concerns about money laundering, Paytm reaffirms adherence to regulatory standards. In a statement, Paytm labels media reports as misleading and malicious, aiming to protect stakeholders' interests. The company pledges to provide clarifications as necessary to ensure transparency and safeguard its reputation.

Buckingham Palace announced today that King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer, following treatment for an enlarged prostate. Although the type of cancer has not been disclosed, the 75-year-old monarch has commenced "regular treatments" and remains optimistic about his recovery. Public engagements will be postponed, with other senior royals expected to step in during his treatment. Despite this setback, King Charles will continue fulfilling his constitutional duties as head of state. Messages of support have poured in from political figures, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer wishing him a full and speedy recovery.