February 18, 2026

Six Skiers Trapped, Nine Missing After Avalanche Hits Sierra Nevada Mountains

Six skiers trapped and nine missing after a huge avalanche strikes in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. Rescue teams brave fierce blizzard to reach survivors amid high avalanche risk.

February 18, 2026

UK Inflation Falls to 3% in January, Boosting Chances for Early Bank of England Rate Cut

UK inflation dropped to 3% in January, the lowest since March 2025. This opens doors for an early interest rate cut by the Bank of England. Lower petrol, airfares, and food prices helped bring down inflation and ease the cost of living, says Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

February 18, 2026

Australia Bans One IS-Linked Woman from Return; Others May Come Back Legally

Australia has issued a temporary ban on one adult from a group of 34 women and children in Syria linked to ISIS. The government said it will not assist their return but won't break the law. The rest have not met the ban threshold, possibly allowing their return if they arrange travel.

February 18, 2026

Two Militants Arrested in Manipur; Weapons Seized in Imphal West

Police in Manipur arrested two militants linked to the proscribed Peoples' Liberation Army. Authorities also recovered guns, bullets, grenades, and ammo in Imphal West, tightening security in the region.

February 18, 2026

Brazil Nears China Beef Export Cap Amid 55% Tariff Threat

Brazil may hit its 1.1 million tonne beef export limit to China by September, risking a 55% tariff. Officials warn this could crash prices and jobs.

February 18, 2026

Global Politicians Extend Warm Wishes as Ramazan Moon Is Sighted Worldwide

Political leaders worldwide, including in Canada, Australia, UK, and the US, have wished Muslims a peaceful and blessed Ramazan as the holy month starts with moon sighting in several countries. Pakistan awaits the official date announcement.

February 18, 2026

Kalyana Karnataka Chitra Santhe Sees Low Crowd But Drawing Contest Shines

The first Kalyana Karnataka Chitra Santhe in Kalaburagi had few visitors on February 17, despite good artworks from 35 artists. The student drawing contest was a big hit with 250 participants.

February 18, 2026

Karnataka Villagers Protest Closure of Over 40,000 Schools Under KPS Magnet Scheme

Residents of Hanumanala protested the closure of their village school under Karnataka's KPS Magnet School scheme. Activists say over 40,000 schools could shut, hurting poor children. Locals warn of more protests if closures continue.

February 18, 2026

PM Shehbaz Sharif Orders Inquiry into Pakistan Hockey Mismanagement in FIH Pro League

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif has ordered a probe after reports of mismanagement hit the national hockey team in Australia. The team lost all matches and faced lodging and financial troubles. Both Pakistan Sports Board and Hockey Federation blame each other. An inquiry committee is now set up to find the truth.

February 18, 2026

Rajya Sabha Biennial Elections for 37 Seats on March 16, 2026

The Election Commission announced Rajya Sabha polls for 37 seats across 10 States on March 16, 2026. Only elected State Assembly members will vote to fill these upper house vacancies.