Carolina Shiino, 26, a naturalized Japanese citizen, becomes the first non-Japanese-born contestant to win Miss Japan, reigniting debates on national identity. Critics question the essence of "Japaneseness," emphasizing her Ukrainian roots. Organizers defend the decision, citing Shiino's confidence and proficiency in Japanese. Japan's homogenous image faces scrutiny amid evolving demographics and immigration policies. Shiino, who moved to Japan at five, expressed gratitude for the recognition as a Japanese person. This follows Ariana Miyamoto's win in 2015, sparking discussions on mixed-race contestants' eligibility in the Miss Japan competition.

French President Emmanuel Macron, the chief guest for India's 75th Republic Day, arrives in Jaipur for in-depth discussions with PM Modi. The agenda includes strengthening defence cooperation, addressing Indo-Pacific challenges, and finalizing key initiatives in areas like business ties and cross-investments. Macron's visit aligns with the ambitious renewal of the France-India strategic partnership, focusing on security, the environment, and social collaboration. The talks are crucial amid India's plans to purchase Rafale M fighters and build Scorpene-class submarines from France. Macron's sixth participation in Republic Day celebrations emphasizes deep Indo-French ties.

Amid a diplomatic dispute, Maldives' main Opposition parties, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats, express worry about the government's perceived 'anti-India stance.' Stressing India's significance as the 'most long-standing ally,' they caution against alienating vital partners. The concern arises after the Maldivian government permits a Chinese research ship, causing tensions with India. The Opposition emphasizes the need for collaboration with all development partners, highlighting the country's historical approach. The diplomatic rift intensified after derogatory comments against PM Modi by Maldivian ministers, leading to suspensions and a call for Indian military withdrawal by March 15.            

Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, Mamata Banerjee and Bhagwant Mann, respectively, declared their states, West Bengal and Punjab, won't ally with Congress for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, shaking the foundation of the INDIA opposition bloc. Banerjee cited miscommunication and criticism, while Mann asserted AAP's solo victory. Congress, hoping for an alliance, faces internal resistance, and TMC's withdrawal raises questions about the bloc's coherence. Congress's Jairam Ramesh extended an olive branch to Banerjee, emphasizing her importance in the alliance. The developments complicate opposition unity and seat negotiations ahead of the polls.

In a delightful exchange, US chemistry professor Michelle Francl's suggestion to add a pinch of salt for an enhanced cup of tea has sparked friendly banter between the US and the UK. Featured in Francl's book 'Steeped: The Chemistry of Tea,' the advice prompted playful disagreements among tea enthusiasts. The US Embassy in London clarified that salt in tea is not official policy, humorously stating, "They will make the tea the proper way - by microwaving it." Responding in good spirits, the UK Cabinet Office emphasized the traditional use of a kettle, saying, "Tea must be only made using a kettle." This diplomatic banter showcases the cultural significance of tea, fostering amicable conversations on social media.

Israeli Economy Minister, Nir Barkat, asserts that Iran is a "legitimate target" for Israeli missile strikes, heightening the possibility of a broader conflict. In an interview, Barkat discusses a range of contentious issues, advocating for a tough stance against Iran and the elimination of the Hezbollah threat. He criticizes the handling of the Gaza war, expressing a desire for a more aggressive approach. Additionally, Barkat announces a shift in labor policies, declaring Palestinians from the West Bank ineligible for work in Israel, and proposes importing over a quarter-million foreign workers. His statements coincide with rising influence within the ruling Likud party.

Over 14,000 security personnel, including commandos, snipers, and spotters armed with advanced weapons, will fortify Kartavya Path during the 75th Republic Day celebrations in Delhi. Special Commissioner of Police, Dependra Pathak, anticipates a crowd of 77,000 attendees on Friday. Enhanced security is in response to last year's Parliament breach and potential disruptions following the inauguration of the new Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Delhi Police focuses on footwear, scanning for unusual shoes, and urges visitors to use park-and-ride facilities. With sealed borders, traffic restrictions, and additional personnel, authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure a secure and smooth Republic Day event.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau's raids reveal assets exceeding ₹100 crore allegedly amassed by Shiva Balakrishna, Secretary of TSRERA and former Director of HMDA in Telangana. Suspected of exploiting his position, Balakrishna faces charges of facilitating permits for real estate companies. The extensive searches across 20 locations exposed gold, flats, bank deposits, and benami holdings. Seized items include ₹40 lakh cash, 2 kg of gold, 60 high-end wristwatches, property documents, and significant bank deposits. ACB continues investigating bank lockers and undisclosed assets, indicating a prolonged probe into the suspected unaccounted wealth accumulation.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declared the termination of the Trinamool Congress's alliance with Congress, announcing they will contest all 42 Lok Sabha seats in Bengal independently. The rift over seat-sharing escalated in the past two months, exacerbated by Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury's criticisms. Banerjee accused Congress of rejecting seat-sharing proposals and emphasized the state unit's uneasy relationship with TMC. The breaking point came a day before Rahul Gandhi's 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.' Despite attempts at reconciliation, the alliance collapse signals a significant shift in West Bengal's political dynamics ahead of the 2024 elections.

Despite an overnight drizzle, Delhi's air quality plummeted into the 'severe' category with a 24-hour average AQI of 409 at 4 pm, marking the worst since January 14. Calm winds worsened the impact of local emissions, creating a smog-covered city with visibility reduced to 200m. The rise in minimum temperature to 8.3°C did little to alleviate the pollution spike, affecting flight schedules with over 50 delays at IGI Airport. The Commission for Air Quality Management hesitated to impose curbs, banking on forecasts of cleaner air in the coming days. Delhi's struggle with hazardous winter air persists despite varying temperatures and a trace of morning rainfall.