February 4, 2026

US-Russia Nuclear Treaty Expires, Raising New Arms Race Fears

The US-Russia New START nuclear weapons treaty expires, ending key arms control cooperation. Experts warn this could spark a new nuclear arms race amid ongoing weapons modernization.

February 4, 2026

India to Notify Caste Questions Before Census 2027 Second Phase, Announces Home Ministry

The Home Ministry told Rajya Sabha that caste questions for Census 2027 will be finalized and notified before the second phase of the Census starts. The first phase starts April 1, with the second phase completing by February 2027.

February 4, 2026

Cold Weather Delays Cardamom Harvests in Idukki, Cutting Yields and Income

Unusual cold in Idukki slows cardamom capsule maturation to 85-90 days, up from normal 30-45 days. Farmers face fewer harvests and big losses this season.

February 4, 2026

Heatwave Kills Over 80% of Flying Foxes in Naracoorte, Rescue Efforts Underway

An extreme heatwave in south-eastern Australia wiped out more than 80% of flying foxes in Naracoorte. Rescuers saved 180 bats, including 34 weak babies needing long care. Wildlife teams battled soaring temperatures, saving hundreds elsewhere. The crisis adds to losses since January’s heatwave, with thousands dead across the region.

February 4, 2026

Madras High Court Ends Case Over Controversial Book Absence at Chennai Book Fair 2026

Madras High Court shuts contempt case against Keezhaikattru Publishers after police confirm no sale of the provocative book at Chennai Book Fair 2026. The court also closes a related writ petition after verification of the facts.

February 4, 2026

Notorious Tanzanian Drug Kingpin Ahmed Muharram Arrested in Zambia with Massive Cannabis Haul

Ahmed Muharram, a notorious Tanzanian drug trafficker, was arrested in Lusaka, Zambia. Authorities seized over 1,380kg of cannabis and codeine syrup in several raids. Multiple suspects were detained and are now in custody, facing court. The Zambian Drug Enforcement Commission vows to keep drug trafficking off its soil.

February 4, 2026

US Congress Report Questions Nuclear Submarine Sale to Australia Over China-Taiwan Conflict Risks

A US Congressional report doubts selling nuclear submarines to Australia, raising concerns about command control in a possible China-Taiwan war and cybersecurity risks. It proposes keeping subs under US command from Australian bases and suggests Australia could invest in other military areas.

February 4, 2026

Greece Blames Smugglers for 15 Migrant Deaths After Speedboat Collision with Coastguard

Fifteen migrants died after a speedboat collided with a Greek coastguard vessel near Chios. Greece blames smugglers, but past cases suggest caution with official versions.

February 4, 2026

IndiGo Cancels Most Flights in December, Over 10.4 Lakh Passengers Impacted

Flight cancellations in December affected 10.46 lakh passengers in India, with IndiGo accounting for 93% of the disruptions. Airlines paid over Rs 24 crore in compensation, reveals DGCA data.

February 4, 2026

Australia to Sell 60 Defence Properties Worth $1.8bn Amid Heritage and Housing Concerns

The Australian government plans to sell 68 defence properties, raising up to $1.8bn. Veterans and politicians warn of heritage loss and urge housing consideration.