Pakistan's political landscape shifts as Nawaz Sharif's PML-N and Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari's PPP form a coalition government amid post-election uncertainty. With neither party securing a majority, the alliance aims to break the political deadlock. In a surprise move, Nawaz Sharif nominates his brother, Shehbaz Sharif, for Prime Minister, foregoing his own candidacy. This decision signals a strategic shift within the PML-N. The unity government seeks to provide stability and governance solutions amidst a hung parliament scenario, marking a pivotal moment in Pakistani politics. With Shehbaz Sharif poised to lead, Pakistan braces for a new era of governance under a unified leadership.

Visa and Mastercard have halted commercial card transactions following the Reserve Bank of India's directive to cease such payments by companies and small entities. Transactions at non-KYC-ed merchants are temporarily suspended, per an Economic Times report. The move aims to curb money flow to unverified merchants unauthorized to accept card payments. While the exact reason for the directive remains undisclosed, fintech startups operating in the sector have received notices to pause business payments until further notice. Paymate CEO Ajay Adiseshann confirms compliance with guidelines, ensuring minimal disruption to business payments through alternate arrangements.

As protesting farmers march towards Delhi, roads are barricaded and security heightened at Singhu, Tikri, and Ghazipur borders. Central Delhi sees heavy police presence with anti-riot gear and concrete barricades. Delhi Metro stations regulated, gates shut amid tensions. Police resort to tear gas at Shambhu border, drones deployed. Punjab on high alert, 70% police force on duty. Farmers demand MSP legislation, Swaminathan Commission recommendations enforcement, pensions, debt forgiveness, and justice for Lakhimpur Kheri victims. Protesters remain resolute in compelling government attention to their demands. Stay updated on developments.

Sonia Gandhi, accompanied by her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, filed her nomination papers for the upcoming Rajya Sabha polls from Rajasthan. Received by senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot upon landing in Jaipur, she leads the party's list of candidates for the state. The Congress also nominated Akhilesh Prasad Singh, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, and Chandrakant Handore for seats in Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, and Maharashtra, respectively. This marks Sonia Gandhi's transition from five terms as a Lok Sabha MP to her first term in the Upper House. With retirement looming for 56 Rajya Sabha members, elections are slated for February 27, with nomination filing deadline on February 15.

Protesting farmers have resumed their march towards Delhi after a night halt, despite a massive security presence and prohibitory orders. Recalling scenes from the 2020-21 protest, tear gas and water cannons were employed to deter farmers from crossing the Punjab-Haryana border. Determined to press on until their demands are met, farmers assert they are prepared for a prolonged standoff, equipped with essentials for months. Disagreements persist between the government and farmers over key issues, including MSP legislation and farm loan waivers. With public gatherings banned and stringent border restrictions causing traffic chaos, the standoff intensifies as both sides stand firm.            

Amid clashes at the Punjab-Haryana border, the 'Delhi Chalo' march by farmers pauses for the night, following a day of violence leaving over 60 injured. Police used tear gas and water cannons as protesters attempted to breach barricades. Despite inconclusive talks, farmer unions pressed ahead with demands, including legal guarantees for minimum support price (MSP). Organizers announced the temporary halt after clashes at Shambhu border. Security measures intensified at Delhi's borders, with heavy traffic congestion observed. Agriculture Minister urged caution against disruptive elements. The protest is set to resume Wednesday morning amidst fortified borders and heightened security measures in the national capital region.        

Negotiations for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza have resumed in Cairo, despite ongoing Israeli bombardment of the southern Gaza city of Rafah. International pressure mounts on Israel to halt the attacks as fears of a ground offensive loom over the densely populated area. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejects ceasefire proposals by Hamas, vowing "total victory" within months. US President Joe Biden urges civilian protection in the region. Talks involve releasing Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Amid warnings of a "terrifying" assault on Rafah, efforts continue to broker a temporary truce amidst escalating violence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the enduring bond between India and the UAE at the 'Ahlan Modi' gathering in Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Stadium. Addressing a fervent crowd of Indian expatriates, he expressed gratitude for their presence, emphasizing the unity despite diverse origins. Amid chants of "Modi-Modi," he conveyed Bharat's pride in its diaspora. Reflecting on his inaugural UAE visit in 2015, he reminisced the warmth extended by Emirati leaders. The visit coincides with the inauguration of the region's largest Hindu temple, symbolizing deepening cultural ties and enhanced trade prospects between the two nations.          

Jharkhand's Ishan Kishan's reluctance to play first-class cricket prompts BCCI to consider enforcing a minimum Ranji Trophy game requirement for IPL eligibility. Kishan's absence from Jharkhand's matches, citing "travel fatigue," drew criticism. BCCI may mandate 3-4 Ranji games for IPL participation, aiming to deter players from prioritizing T20 leagues. Concerns arise over players' commitment to domestic cricket. Indian team management also frustrated with reluctance to play Ranji Trophy. While Kishan's future in BCCI retainership remains uncertain, his adherence to the new policy may decide his IPL fate. Discussions ongoing, but no decisions made yet regarding central contracts.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's withdrawal from the race for prime minister and pledge of support for Nawaz Sharif's PML-N has bolstered the former Pakistan PM's bid for a fourth term. Bhutto's announcement, coupled with Shehbaz Sharif's reaffirmation of Nawaz Sharif's candidacy, signals a potential comeback for the veteran politician. Sharif's resurgence follows a tumultuous period marked by legal battles and exile. The development comes after Pakistani voters delivered a fractured mandate in the February 8 polls, with independent candidates and Sharif's PML-N emerging as significant players in the National Assembly.