February 16, 2026

Eight Dead in Fireworks Shop Blast at Start of China’s Lunar New Year

A fireworks shop exploded in Jiangsu, eastern China, killing eight people on Lunar New Year's first day. Officials warn all regions to tighten firework safety.

February 16, 2026

Karnataka Migrant Kids Miss School During Pepper Harvest, Left in Tents

Hundreds of migrant children in Karnataka miss school while their parents work in pepper estates. They stay in tents without schooling or safety measures. Authorities plan action to protect and educate these children.

February 16, 2026

Bhalekadi Villagers Near Kudremukh Demand Rehab Amid Arecanut Crisis, Poor Roads

Families in Bhalekadi village near Kudremukh National Park struggle with no roads, costly transport, and falling arecanut yields. Many want government rehab packages.

February 16, 2026

NGT Clears ₹92,000 Crore Great Nicobar Mega Project Despite Tribal and Environmental Concerns

The National Green Tribunal has approved the massive Great Nicobar Island infrastructure project worth ₹92,000 crore, dismissing environmental petitions. The project includes a port, airport, township, and power plant on 160 sq. km, much of which is forest land inhabited by indigenous tribes.

February 16, 2026

Historic Holy Trinity Cathedral Clock in Tirunelveli Older Than Big Ben, Restoration Underway

The Holy Trinity Cathedral tower clock in Tirunelveli, built in 1854, is older than Big Ben. Antique experts Robert Kennedy and Nagaraj will restore its bell chime, aiming to bring the clock back to life without replacing its original mechanism.