The UK economy slipped into recession at the end of last year, with a 0.3% GDP decline in the three months to December. The Office for National Statistics attributes this downturn to decreased spending by households grappling with soaring interest rates and rising living costs. This marks the second consecutive quarter of falling national output, posing a challenge for the government, particularly with an election on the horizon. While recent consumer confidence upticks suggest a potential rebound, analysts warn of persistent stagnation due to ongoing economic headwinds. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt emphasizes the importance of combating high inflation to stimulate growth.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in talks with Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, in Doha, aiming to strengthen the bond between India and Qatar. This encounter follows the recent release of eight former Indian Navy veterans, previously sentenced to death in Qatar on espionage charges. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the constructive dialogue between the leaders, focusing on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, energy, finance, and technology. Additionally, discussions encompassed developments in West Asia, emphasizing the importance of regional peace and stability. Modi's visit signifies a diplomatic milestone post the veterans' release, underlining India-Qatar relations' significance.

During the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory parade, one person died and 21 others were wounded in a shooting near Union Station in Missouri. Eight victims are in immediately life-threatening condition, with seven others sustaining potentially life-threatening injuries. Among the wounded are nine children, all expected to recover. Three suspects have been arrested. The gunfire erupted as thousands gathered to celebrate, causing chaos and prompting a swift police response. Mayor Quinton Lucas expressed shock, emphasizing the need for action on gun violence. The incident has sparked calls for reform and renewed debate on gun control measures.

India's captain, Rohit Sharma, showcased resilience on Day 1 of the third Test against England in Rajkot, scoring a vital half-century after the top-order collapse. Despite losing three early wickets to Mark Wood and Tom Hartley, Sharma anchored the innings, easing pressure on the batting side. His innings, accompanied by a steady partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, steadied India to 93 for 3 at lunch. Sharma's fifty, ending a six-month drought, signifies a crucial comeback and boosts confidence for the team amidst concerns over his form. India aims to build a substantial score in their first innings, capitalizing on Sharma's presence at the crease.        

As the standoff between protesting farmers and security personnel continues at the Punjab-Haryana border, a panel of three Union ministers is set to meet farmer leaders in Chandigarh. The dialogue, led by Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, aims to address key demands, including Minimum Support Price (MSP) implementation. Amidst preparations for the meeting, farmer groups, including Bharti Kisan Union (Ekta Ugrahan) and BKU Dakaunda (Dhaner), declare a 'rail roko' in Punjab today. The ongoing protests have led to disruptions in the National Capital Region (NCR), prompting advisories from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) regarding commute planning.

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court declared the electoral bonds scheme as "unconstitutional" on Thursday, citing violations of the right to information under Article 19(1)(a). The verdict, delivered by a five-judge bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, deemed anonymous funding to political parties as violative of electoral transparency. The court directed the State Bank of India (SBI) to halt further issuance of electoral bonds and mandated the submission of purchase details since April 12, 2019, to the Election Commission. Advocates hailed the decision, foreseeing a positive impact on electoral democracy and emphasizing citizens' right to transparent political funding.

Israel launches a series of airstrikes in Lebanon following Hezbollah rocket fire that killed a soldier in Israel. Four people, including two children, are reported dead in the southern Lebanese town of Souaneh and Aadchit. Israel's military retaliates, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure after rockets strike a base in Safed, killing one soldier and injuring seven others. Tensions escalate along the border, with fears of broader regional conflict amid ongoing clashes. Hezbollah claims responsibility for the attack, citing support for Gaza amid Israeli aggression. The situation remains volatile as both sides exchange fire, risking further escalation in the region.

UN Yemen envoy Hans Grundberg urges immediate action to halt the "dangerous escalatory cycle" in Yemen following recent Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. The rebels' provocations, ostensibly in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, have prompted US and British air raids. Grundberg calls for regional deescalation, cautioning against "military opportunism," and emphasizes the need to protect progress towards a mediated agreement. The conflict, ongoing since 2015, has resulted in significant casualties and humanitarian crises. Grundberg underscores the urgency of a nationwide ceasefire despite escalating regional tensions. Yemen's plight remains a focal point amid broader geopolitical dynamics.          

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauds the United Arab Emirates for a momentous occasion as the grand BAPS Hindu Mandir is inaugurated in Abu Dhabi. Addressing the event, Modi declares, "Today, the United Arab Emirates has written a golden chapter in human history." He emphasizes the temple's significance, symbolizing unity and harmony. Invoking blessings for humanity's enlightenment and progress on Basant Panchami, Modi reminisces his bond with Pramukh Swami Maharaj and acknowledges UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's role. The UAE minister echoes Modi's sentiment, highlighting the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

Protesting farmers persist in their march towards Delhi despite clashes with police at the Punjab-Haryana border. Tear gas, water cannons, and concrete barriers met their 'Delhi Chalo' march, but farmers vow to press on. Ahead of a likely third round of talks with the Centre, tensions escalate as security tightens at Delhi borders, causing traffic chaos. Both sides sustain injuries in the confrontations. Amid calls for dialogue, farmers demand a halt to police aggression before resuming negotiations. The standoff echoes past protests as farmers advocate for MSP laws and loan waivers. Regional disruptions persist as protests intensify, with railway track occupations planned.