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US Iran Talks: Oil Prices Crash, Trump’s Iran Deal Blueprint Deserves Full Credit For Oil Relief?

US Iran Talks
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US Iran Talks: On February 9, oil prices fell 1 percent as the trade talks between the United States and Iran are expected to continue, easing immediate fears of a conflict in the Middle East. The US West Texas Intermediate Crude was trading at $62.94 a barrel and was down 1 percent or 61 cents. In contrast, Brent crude futures fell to $67.38 a barrel, a fall of 1 percent or 67 cents.

IG market analyst Tony Sycamore commented that oil prices have eased as more talks between USA and Iran are on the horizon. Many in political circles are terming the crash in oil prices a result of US President Donald Trump’s masterstroke for consumers worldwide. Building on indirect Oman-mediated channels, the recent US-Iran negotiations mark a stunning reversal from the strike threats sent to Tehran that sent oil prices to 6-month highs near $72.

Trump’s Blueprint Unpacked

The approach of Donald Trump echoes his first-time “maximum pressure” playbook, prioritizing economic leverage. Unlike the stalemates of the Biden era, the model of Trump provides tweaks in Iran sanctions without full relief, which mirror Venezuela deals via channels in Qatar for frozen assets.

This could help the Islamic Republic of Iran access $25 billion in reserves at an interest of 3.85 percent, committing $1 billion every year to US imports, stabilizing the forex reserves of Tehran.

Global Relief Verdict

The blueprint of Donald Trump deserves full credit as it shows that political diplomacy delivered over Iran’s aggression.

In another development, Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi remarked that the Ayatollah Ali Khamenei regime would not give up the thought of uranium enrichment from Washington. Araghchi went on to dismiss the military build-up of the United States in the Middle East. The foreign minister also commented that the military deployment of the United States in the region doesn’t scare us.

Nitish Rajput SSC Exam Video Controversy: Eduquity Files Defamation Suit of Rs 2.5 Crore, Here’s What Aspirants Must Know

Nitish Rajput
Google

In September 2025, Indian YouTuber and teacher Nitish Rajput released a video called “Reality of SSC Exams,” which got him in trouble with the law. Rajput looked at how the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) works in the video. He focused on how often exams are interrupted and how the commission’s technology vendor changed.

His explanation quickly garnered popularity among SSC hopefuls who have often complained about tests being delayed, technical problems, and changes to the criteria at the last minute.

Accusations in the video

Rajput’s film used RTI replies and tender documents that were available to the public to dispute SSC’s choice to move its exam operations from Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to Eduquity Technologies. He pointed out what he called problems with the tendering process, changes in the requirements for eligibility, and a lack of clarity about how vendors were chosen.

The film also connected these changes in administration to problems that were reported on test day, including server difficulties, late question papers, and messed-up test schedules, which made students even angrier around the country.

Legal Action by Eduquity Technologies

In response, Eduquity Technologies filed a ₹2.5 crore defamation complaint in a Delhi court. The corporation said that Rajput’s assertions were false, not backed up by evidence, and hurt its professional reputation. Eduquity wants the video taken down, a public apology, and money.

The matter became public in late November 2025, but it got worse in early February 2026 when it started to spread on social media and student forums again.

Nitish Rajput has stood by what he said, saying that his video is based only on public data and complaints from candidates. He has refused to take down the video and has promised to fight the issue in court.

For people who want to join the SSC, the case has come to stand for bigger problems in the system.

Epstein Files: Mark Zuckerberg’s “Wild” Dinner With Epstein Shocks The World, Feud Between Elon Musk And Reid Hoffman Reignited

Epstein Files
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Epstein Files: The recently released Epstein Files trache has revealed a photograph showing Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg along with Tesla owner Elon Musk and other tech leader at a 2015 dinner hosted by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The event was termed by Epstein as “wild” in an email.

The image also showed Joi Ito, the former director of the MIT Media Lab, and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel; the name of LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman was also mentioned in a separate email. The dinner was organized in honour of MIT neuroscientist Ed Boyden by Reid Hoffman.

Feud Between Elon Musk And Reid Hoffman Reignited

In another development, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman was accused by Musk of visiting the private island of Epstein. Hoffman vehemently denied the allegations of Musk and disputed the characterized of the Tesla owner. Hoffman remarked his meetings with Jeffrey Epstein were associated only due to institutional financing and not because of personal ties.

The LinkedIn co-founder said he visited Epstein to raise funds for the MIT Media Lab, a project undertaken alongside Joi Ito (the lab’s ex-director). However, Hoffman was quick to acknowledge that his association with Epstein was a mistake and he regrets it.

Musk dismissed the explanations of Hoffman and suggested that the LinkedIn co-founder should help OJ Simpson trace the real killer.

Epstein Files-Elon Musk’s Reply

In an email to Vanity Fair, Musk claimed that Zuckerberg is not his friend and Epstein is a creep.

Girlfriend of Epstein Makes Startling Revelations

Karyna Shuliak, the last girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein, has claimed that Elon Musk and her boyfriend were innocent. She claimed that it was Trump who possibly got Epstein killed.

According to newly released estate documents, Epstein planned to leave a significant majority of his fortune for Shuliak, including valuable properties and large cash gifts.

Tejasvi Surya: Drama, Arrested And Released! Why Is Congress Not Supporting Shadow Cash Support? Are Karnataka’s Coffers Empty?

Tejasvi Surya
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Tejasvi Surya: The President of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha and the MLA from the Bangalore South constituency, Tejasvi Surya, was detained and then released.

Surya was detained after he entered the Bengaluru Metro Station with an empty trunk as a symbolic protest suggesting that it reflects the “empty trunk of the Karnataka government”.

In a post on X, the RSS swayamsevak said his arrest would never silence him. Surya also accused the Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah of acting against him because he exposed his government’s truth.

Tejasvi Surya Made Demands

Surya demanded that the Karnataka CM should present a White Paper on Karnataka’s state finances in the upcoming budget. He also urged for restoring financial support to the Karnataka Metro system to bring down the fares.

Shadow Cash Support

Surya cited inability of the Karnataka government to sustain the “Shadow Cash Support (SCS)” support to the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL). SCS is a financial buffer that has been used by previous state governments to cover operational losses, repayments and interest-free loans of BMRCL. It was alleged by Surya that the Siddaramaiah government withdrew this financial cushion, triggering metro fare hikes and burdening commuters.

Are Karnataka’s Coffers Empty?

Surya references the Karnataka CM’s own Fare Fixation Committee testimony on financial fragility, linking it to unaffordable living and daily price surges. It was argued by critics like Surya that the populist schemes of the Congress government without revenue backing have drained the state’s resources, forcing cuts like shadow cash support.

Political Firestorm And Voter Pulse

The street protests of Tejasvi Surya have highlighted commuter support, amplifying the narrative of BJP of Congress incompetence. Congress politicians have referred to the antics of Surya as political posturing ahead of the upcoming state budget. The statements of Surya could sway urban voters of the state tired of fare gains with Greater Bengaluru Authority elections looming.

Om Birla: Opposition Goes Rogue? No-Confidence Motion On Cards Against Lok Sabha Speaker, Impact Explained

Om Birla
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Om Birla: India’s opposition political parties may file a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. This was after Birla asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to attend the house’s proceedings after sensing a political conspiracy.

Opposition parties have long accused Om Birla of bias in favour of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) led by Narendra Modi. The move signals deepening rifts in the 18th Lok Sabha of the country, just months after the rare re-election of Om Birla in June 2024.

The Rise Of Om Birla To Power

A seasoned BJP leader from Rajasthan’s Kota constituency, Om Birla entered politics as an MLA in 2003 from Kota South. Birla went on to win re-elections in 2008 and 2013 before he made a transition in 2014 to Lok Sabha. The elevation of Birla as the Lok Sabha speaker marked a historic milestone. In 2024, Birla was re-elected unopposed for a second consecutive term. Birla became only the second Lok Sabha speaker after GV Mavalankar to achieve this rare feat.

What Caused The No-Confidence Motion?

On February 4, the Lok Sabha Speaker advised the Indian Prime Minister not to enter the Lok Sabha due to a high possibility of disorder near his seat. Birla went on to publicly charge on February 5, 2026, following the February 4 events, the opposition parties of planned disruptions, highlighting risks to parliamentary decorum.

​Birla also accused the opposition of “sensational” disruptions, claiming they prevented the replies of PM Modi and undermined democracy. Opposition leaders, led by the Indian National Congress, counter that the Lok Sabha Speaker selectively allowing BJP voices while muting theirs.

Political Ramifications

A no-confidence motion requires the signatures of 50 MPs and the admission of the Speaker for debate. The motion revives the ouster of Gibral Singh in 1999 under similar charges.

JEE Main 2026 Result Buzz Intensifies, – Here’s How Candidates Can Check Session 1 Result

JEE Main 2026 Result
Google

The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 results are about to come out, and people all around India are talking about them. With thousands of people who want to be engineers waiting to get their scores, figuring out how the results work, how to verify them, and what the following steps are has become very important before Session 2 preparations.

What to Look for in the JEE Main Session 1 Result

The National Testing Agency (NTA) runs the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main for admission to undergraduate engineering programs in India, including NITs, IIITs, and other centrally supported schools. The Session 1 exam just ended, and the results will be posted online on the official NTA website. When the scorecards go live, candidates should expect to see their NTA scores, percentile rankings, and subject-by-subject performance details.

How to Find Out Your JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Result

It’s easy to check the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 result, but you need to be careful to avoid mistakes. People who want to do this should follow these steps:

  • Go to the NTA JEE Main website: Open the official website set up by the National Testing Agency.
  • Go to the Result Link: On the homepage, look for the button that says “JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Result.”
  • Enter Your Information: Enter your application number, date of birth, and any other information that is requested, just as you did when you registered.
  • Submit and Look at the Scorecard: Your result will be shown on the screen after you submit it.
  • Download and keep: Make a copy of your scorecard and print it off so you can use it for counselling and verification later.

It’s a good idea to keep your application information close to hand to avoid mistakes at the last minute. During peak demand, technical problems are prevalent. Candidates should be patient if the site takes a long time to load.

What to Do Next After the Result

NTA will also provide cut-off scores and qualifying requirements after the Session 1 results are made public. Candidates who match the eligibility requirements can start getting ready for JEE Main Session 2, which usually happens later in the year. Also, students should get the paperwork ready for counselling and seat allocation once the schedules are made public.

Border 2 Box Office Collection day 17: Sunny Deol Starrer Weekend Numbers Impress! Will Suniel Shetty Be Able to Watch the Movie Soon?

Border 2 Box Office Collection Day 17
Google

Border 2 Box Office Collection Day 17: Sunny Deol’s Border 2 continues to surprise at the box office, even in its third week. On Day 17 (3rd Sunday), the film delivered strong weekend numbers, proving that audience interest is still very much alive

Box Office Collection of day 17

Border 2 Box Office Collection Day 17:  According to Sacnilk, on its 17th day, which marked the third Sunday, Border 2 collected an impressive ₹ 6.90 crore. This solid jump clearly highlights the power of the weekend factor and the film’s emotional connection with viewers. Despite being more than two weeks old, the movie managed to pull crowds to theaters, especially families and fans of patriotic cinema. Such numbers in the third week indicate positive word of mouth and sustained interest.

Weekend Momentum Works in Favour

The Sunday boost has once again worked in Border 2’s favour. Many viewers who skipped weekday shows turned up over the weekend, helping the film register healthy collections. 

Sunny Deol’s Mass Appeal Remains Strong

Sunny Deol has always enjoyed a loyal fan base, especially for films rooted in nationalism and intense drama. With Border 2, he has successfully tapped into nostalgia while delivering a performance that resonates with today’s audience. Day 17’s collection clearly reflects his enduring star power.

Will Suniel Shetty Watch Border 2 Soon?

Fans are also curious about whether Suniel Shetty will watch Border 2 soon. Known for his admiration for patriotic, action-driven cinema, he could spark further buzz around the film. While there’s no official update yet, audiences are eager to hear his thoughts if and when he watches it.

India US Trade Deal: Farmer Associations Demand Piyush Goyal Resignation, Announces Feb 12 Strike, Shivraj Singh Chouhan Accuses Congress Of Misleading Statements

India US Trade Deal
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India US Trade Deal: The Joint Platform of Central Trade Unions (CTUs) along with sectoral associations and federations in India has called for a general strike on February 12 against the India US Trade Deal and imposition of the labour codes.

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), SKM (Non-Political) and All India Kisan Sabha have called for nationwide protests, saying the trade deal is a complete surrender of agriculture and farmers of India to American multinational corporations. Calls for the resignation of Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal were also made, accusing him of misleading the nation on the scope of trade negotiations.

What Did Congress Commented?

Pawan Khera, the media and publicity department head of the Indian National Congress (INC), claimed that the nation would become America’s dumping ground by the US India trade deal.

India US Trade Deal-Reaction Of Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has rejected the criticism of the trade deal by Congress and others. Chouhan commented that the India US trade deal fully safeguards the interests of Indian farmers and agriculture sector.

The Agriculture Minister remarked that key farm products have been kept out of the trade deal. He went on to comment that India would never allow genetically modified products to enter the Indian market. He also said that tariff concessions of any kind whatsoever have NOT been allowed on farm goods such as dairy, spices, vegetables, meat, grains, fruits and processed foods.

Chouhan remarked the India US trade deal was unique example of the country’s development, dignity and diplomacy. The Union Agriculture Minister commented that development is India’s foundation, diplomacy means nation first and dignity means the garima (dignity) of Indian farmers.

Chouhan also remarked the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would never let India down and harm the interests of the country’s farmers.

Kanpur Lamborghini Accident: Tobacco Tycoon’s Son Crashes High-Speed Luxury Car into Multiple Vehicles, Sparks Chaos in Busy City Market, Check Latest Update

Kanpur Lamborghini Accident
Google

A high-speed Lamborghini supercar crashed into multiple vehicles and pedestrians in the busy market area which resulted in a shocking road accident that destroyed Kanpur on Sunday afternoon. The incident caused panic on the streets and left several people injured.

What Happened in Kanpur?

The accident occurred around 2:00 PM on VIP Road near a busy shopping centre in Kanpur. The high-speed Lamborghini lost control in a crowded area, first hitting an auto-rickshaw and then crashing into a parked motorcycle. The impact threw the bike rider several feet into the air before the car finally stopped after hitting an electric pole.

Who Was Driving the Lamborghini?

Police said the car was driven by Shivam Mishra, son of tobacco trader KK Mishra. He was reportedly under the influence during the accident. The high-end Lamborghini involved, worth several crores, has been seized, and the investigation is ongoing.

Injuries and Chaos at the Scene

At least six people, including pedestrians and riders, were injured in the accident. Some suffered serious fractures and leg injuries and were taken to a private hospital. A crowd gathered at the spot, stopped the driver from escaping, and the situation turned tense before police intervened.

Police Action and Legal Proceedings

Police officers arrived at the accident scene which they secured after they arrested the driver. Authorities confiscated the damaged Lamborghini while they interviewed witnesses about the incident. According to officials the investigation results will lead to legal proceedings against the identified suspect. The police will file an FIR after completing their assessment of medical and forensic evidence.

Public Reaction and Safety Concerns

The incident sparked public outrage as a high-speed luxury car was driven in a crowded market area. Residents raised concerns over reckless driving and demanded stricter traffic rules for everyone, regardless of status or wealth.

Mohan Bhagwat: From SIR and UCC to Not Giving work to Infiltrators, RSS Chief Seeks Public Help

Mohan Bhagwat
Google

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has urged citizens to actively identify and report illegal infiltrators to the police, while also refusing them employment opportunities. Speaking at an event in Mumbai marking the centenary year of the RSS, Bhagwat said public participation is essential in supporting government efforts to detect and deport non-citizens.

He framed the issue as one of civic responsibility, stressing that safeguarding citizens’ rights requires collective awareness and lawful action.

Electoral Roll Revision Cited as Key Tool

Bhagwat highlighted the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls as an important mechanism to expose non-citizens living in the country. According to him, the exercise can help authorities distinguish between citizens and illegal infiltrators, strengthening democratic processes and national security.

He contrasted current efforts with what he described as years of inaction in the past, crediting the present government for prioritising the issue of illegal infiltration.

Employment Should Be Reserved for Citizens

Emphasising economic implications, the RSS chief said jobs and opportunities must be reserved strictly for Indian citizens. He called on employers and communities to avoid hiring suspected infiltrators and instead inform authorities through proper legal channels.

Bhagwat also suggested that linguistic differences and unfamiliarity with local customs can sometimes help identify individuals who may not be citizens, though he reiterated that reporting should be done responsibly and through official means.

Inclusivity Within RSS Highlighted

Addressing internal organisational values, Bhagwat stressed that the RSS remains inclusive, stating that individuals from all communities, including Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, can rise to leadership positions based on merit and dedication.

He sought to underline that the organisation’s focus is on national unity rather than exclusion.

Political Context and Ongoing Debate

The remarks come amid intensified drives in states such as Maharashtra targeting suspected illegal immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh. These actions have drawn criticism from opposition parties and rights groups, who have raised concerns about potential profiling, especially of migrants from eastern India.

Bhagwat clarified that Indian Muslims and other citizens should not face discrimination, reiterating that the focus remains on identifying non-citizens.

Ind Vs Pak T20 World Cup 2026: Face Saver Mode On! Pakistan Puts Forth 3 Conditions, BCCI “May Not Accept” THIS

Ind Vs Pak T20 World Cup 2026
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Ind Vs Pak T20 World Cup 2026: The question of whether Pakistan would participate in Group A match against arch-rivals India on February 15 in Colombo is still unanswered. According to media reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has set three conditions before the two-member delegation of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The meeting was also attended by Aminul Islam, the President of Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), and ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta and deputy chair Imran Khwaja.

Ind Vs Pak T20 World Cup 2026-The Three Conditions

The Pakistan Cricket Board has put out three conditions:

  1. Higher revenue from the International Cricket Council
  2. Enforcement of the handshake protocols in the game
  3. Restoration of bilateral cricket with India

Now comes the interesting question – would the Board Of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also ask Pakistani PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to return the Asia Cup 2025 trophy to India?

ICC’s Possible Reply?

The ICC may not succumb to the demands of PCB as it would translate into loss of authority and credibility. The BCCI and the Indian government may not accept the third condition (restoring bilateral cricket ties with Pakistan).

The PCB is expected to deliver its final decision after having a word with the Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Earlier, the ICC made it clear to the PCB that there are no grounds for it to cite Force Majeure as all their T20 World Cup matches are in Sri Lanka and none in India.

The term Force Majeure refers to a contractual clause that allows parties to a contract to be set free from liability during an uncontrollable, extraordinary event such as riot, war, pandemic or natural disaster.

Interestingly, Pakistan may be “forced” to play against India to ensure it reaches the next stage of ICC T20 World Cup 2026 as rain threat looms at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) ground in Colombo for its next match against USA. Humidity is likely to stay high at 64 percent and cloud cover is expected to be 99 percent.

Chocolate Day 2026: How ‘Angel Hair’ Quietly Became The Most Coveted Chocolate Of 2026

Chocolate Day 2026 - Angel Hair Chocolate
Photo Credit: X

Chocolate Day 2026: Everyone remembers the viral pistachio Dubai chocolate bar craze of the early 2020s. People shared it on TikTok and Instagram and its crunchy, nutty filling became a global trend. In 2026, a new chocolate sensation has taken that hype to the next level – the “Angel Hair” chocolate bar. This creation is currently the most talked-about chocolate of the year.

Angel Hair chocolate is famous for its dramatic texture. When you break open the bar, it reveals delicate strands of Turkish cotton candy called pismaniye, layered with creamy pistachio and fruit notes like pomegranate and raspberry, all wrapped in a smooth chocolate shell.

Chocolate Day 2026: Why Angel Hair Is The New Viral Chocolate Sensation

What makes Angel Hair chocolate so popular isn’t just how it tastes. It’s how it feels and looks. Videos of people snapping the bar in half and watching the silky strands pour out have gone viral on TikTok and Instagram. Many creators soon called it a multi-sensory experience because it’s not only sweet, but also visually stunning and oddly satisfying to break apart.

The bar was first widely promoted by Belgian chocolatier Tucho, following the original Dubai chocolate trend. Tucho’s version uses high-quality Belgian chocolate combined with pişmaniye and pistachio cream. This mix of European and Middle Eastern dessert traditions feels new, luxurious and “share-worthy” (perfect for social media).

Industry experts say Angel Hair became a trend because it taps into two big food trends of 2026: texture layering and Instagrammable eating. Texture layering means combining multiple contrasting textures (creamy, fluffy and crunchy) in a single bite. In 2026, food lovers crave experiences that excite all the senses, not just taste.

Where To Buy And How To Make Angel Hair At Home

If you want the original, the best place is online from Tucho’s official shop or speciality chocolate retailers that carry the Belgian version. These bars often sell out quickly due to high demand and limited production. Some gourmet shops in Europe and the US now also offer Angel Hair chocolate.

You can also make your own Angel Hair chocolate at home. Melt your favourite chocolate and pour it into a mould. Before it sets, add strands of pişmaniye and a spoonful of pistachio cream. Let it cool fully, then break it open to enjoy. You can even dye the cotton candy different colours to make it look magical.

Angel Hair chocolate stands out because it isn’t just a treat, but an experience. This Chocolate Day 2026, whether you buy it or make it at home, you’ll see why this chocolate has become the most coveted of the year.

MP Constable Recruitment: Diet Plan to Boost Energy for Physical Test Aspirants

Dementia Diet
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MP Constable Recruitment: Candidates preparing for the Madhya Pradesh Constable Recruitment physical efficiency test are advised to focus on a balanced and energy-rich diet to enhance stamina, strength, and overall performance. Experts say proper nutrition, combined with regular training, plays a crucial role in clearing the physical test with confidence.

MP Constable Recruitment: Start the Day with High-Energy Nutrition

Fitness trainers recommend beginning the day with a nutritious breakfast that includes complex carbohydrates and protein. Foods such as oats, whole grains, bananas, boiled eggs, sprouts, and milk help provide sustained energy required for running, jumping, and endurance-based activities.

Balanced Meals for Strength and Recovery

Lunch and dinner should include a balanced mix of carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats. Roti or rice with dal, green vegetables, curd, paneer, or lean meat helps maintain muscle strength and supports recovery after intense workouts. Fresh fruits and vegetables supply essential vitamins and minerals.

Hydration Is Key During Training

Maintaining proper hydration is essential during physical preparation. Candidates are advised to drink adequate water throughout the day and include natural fluids like lemon water or coconut water to prevent dehydration and muscle cramps, especially during outdoor practice sessions.

Pre-Workout and Post-Workout Diet Tips

Before training, light snacks such as fruits, soaked almonds, or peanuts can provide instant energy. After workouts, protein-rich foods help in muscle repair and reduce fatigue. Avoiding junk food, excessive sugar, and fried items is crucial for optimal performance.

Discipline Along with Diet Ensures Success

Experts stress that a disciplined lifestyle, adequate sleep, and consistency in training are as important as diet. By following a structured nutrition plan along with regular practice, aspirants can significantly improve their chances of clearing the MP Constable physical test with full energy and confidence.

This focused approach is expected to help thousands of candidates preparing for the upcoming recruitment stages across Madhya Pradesh.

Uttarakhand Scripts History, Reaches First-Ever Ranji Trophy Semi-Final

Uttarakhand created history by qualifying for the Ranji Trophy semi-finals for the first time, marking a landmark moment in the state’s cricketing journey. The breakthrough performance has put Uttarakhand firmly on India’s domestic cricket map and highlighted the rapid rise of the relatively young team.

The team’s disciplined bowling and composed batting under pressure proved decisive in the quarter-final, helping Uttarakhand outplay a traditionally stronger opponent. Consistent performances across departments and sharp on-field execution were key to the historic result.

Ranji Trophy: A Milestone for State Cricket

Cricket observers say the achievement reflects years of steady investment in grassroots development, coaching, and competitive exposure. Uttarakhand, which made its Ranji Trophy debut only in recent seasons, has shown remarkable progress by reaching the last four of India’s premier domestic red-ball tournament.

Players Shine on the Big Stage

Several players delivered match-defining contributions, displaying maturity beyond their experience. The team’s bowling unit kept things tight in crucial phases, while the batting lineup showed resilience in challenging conditions—traits that have defined Uttarakhand’s campaign this season.

Looking Ahead to the Semi-Final

With momentum on their side, Uttarakhand will now aim to extend their dream run in the semi-final. Regardless of the outcome, the historic qualification has already inspired young cricketers across the state and signalled a promising future for Uttarakhand cricket.

The achievement has drawn praise from fans and former players alike, who see this as the beginning of a new chapter in the state’s sporting history.

Rajasthan Emerges as Major Rare Earth Hub; 83.59 Million Tonnes Deposits Found in Sikar and Balotra

Rajasthan has emerged as a key centre for Rare Earth Elements (REEs) in India after the Geological Survey of India (GSI) identified deposits exceeding 83.59 million tonnes in the state. The significant reserves, primarily located in Balotra and Sikar districts, are expected to play a crucial role in strengthening India’s mineral security and reducing dependence on imports.

According to official data, the discovery places Rajasthan among the most strategically important regions for rare earth resources, which are essential for industries such as clean energy, electronics, electric vehicles, defence manufacturing, and advanced technologies.

Rajasthan : Government Begins Process for Mineral Block Auction

The Union Ministry informed Parliament, in response to a question by MP Dushyant Singh, that work is underway on the availability assessment, auction of mineral blocks, and policy planning related to rare earth resources. The objective is to link exploration with industrial development and ensure sustainable and strategic utilisation of these critical minerals.

Officials said the government is actively preparing to integrate REE mining with domestic manufacturing ecosystems, in line with India’s long-term goals of self-reliance in strategic minerals.

Major Deposits Identified in Balotra and Sikar

GSI surveys conducted after the 2015 amendment to the MMDR Act revealed substantial reserves in Balotra district. Large deposits were found north of Danta Kalaur (46.83 million tonnes) and east of Gugrot (25.52 million tonnes). In Sikar district, smaller deposits were identified in areas such as Sukleshwar Temple, Mawri, Gudnal, and Ladi Ka Bas.

Most of these discoveries are currently at the G3 exploration stage, indicating preliminary resource estimates. Experts note that further detailed exploration could potentially increase the estimated reserves.

Strategic Importance for Rajasthan and India

As per the National Mineral Inventory updated till April 1, 2025, Balotra alone accounts for 81.86 million tonnes, while Sikar holds around 1.73 million tonnes of REE resources. This makes western Rajasthan strategically vital for India’s mineral and industrial future.

Boost to Industry, Energy Transition, and Defence

Rare earth elements are critical inputs for renewable energy technologies, high-performance magnets, electronics, aerospace, and defence systems. The discovery is expected to open new avenues for investment, employment, and industrial growth in Rajasthan, while supporting India’s clean energy transition and strategic autonomy.

Experts believe that with timely auctions, responsible mining practices, and downstream processing facilities, Rajasthan could become a cornerstone of India’s rare earth supply chain in the coming years.