February 16, 2026

Supreme Court Gives UPSC One Week to File Affidavit on Screen-Reader Software for Visually Impaired Candidates

The Supreme Court has given UPSC a week to submit a detailed affidavit on deploying screen-reader software for visually impaired exam candidates, ensuring better accessibility and a flexible scribe change policy.

February 16, 2026

Kurdish Authorities Free 34 Australian ISIL Relatives from Syrian Roj Camp

Kurdish officials in Syria have released 34 Australians related to ISIL fighters from the Roj camp. They will be flown home from Damascus as camps face ongoing security issues.

February 16, 2026

Almost 500,000 Europeans Demand EU Suspend Israel Partnership Over Human Rights

More than 457,000 Europeans have signed a petition to suspend the EU’s partnership with Israel, citing human rights breaches. The call is growing fast across all 27 member states, aiming for 1 million signatures to force EU action.

February 16, 2026

Ivrea’s Battle of the Oranges Lights Up Italy's Carnival

Ivrea, Italy, kicks off its famous carnival with the thrilling Battle of the Oranges. Teams throw oranges in a colorful reenactment of a medieval revolt.

February 16, 2026

National Gallery Plans Big Cuts Amid £8.2M Deficit to Stay Afloat

The National Gallery faces an £8.2 million deficit next year. It will cut back on exhibitions, raise ticket prices, and offer staff voluntary exit packages. Visitor numbers remain low after Covid, and running costs keep rising. The gallery must make tough choices to survive and protect future projects.

February 16, 2026

Kerala HC Orders Security Audit at Mental Centres After Patient Stabs Three

Kerala High Court orders a security check at three state mental health centres after a patient escaped and stabbed three people in Thrissur. The court demands reports on safety and care by March 3.

February 16, 2026

Two Held With 350 Quintals of Illegal PDS Rice Worth ₹14.70 Lakh Near Nellore

Officials caught two men transporting 350 quintals of illegal PDS rice near Nellore. The rice, worth ₹14.70 lakh, and a truck worth ₹8 lakh were seized. Strict action is promised against such crimes.

February 16, 2026

Karnataka HC Orders Bengaluru PG Inspections for 2024 Guidelines Compliance

Karnataka High Court directs Greater Bengaluru Authority to inspect Paying Guest accommodations. The move checks if PGs follow the 10-point 2024 safety and hygiene guidelines amid show cause notices.

February 16, 2026

Nilgiris Prepares for 128th Flower Show with 10 Lakh Plants and Exotic Flowers

Nilgiris Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru launched the planting season for the 128th flower show at the Government Botanical Garden, Udhagamandalam. The show, planned for May 2026, will feature 10 lakh plants including rare flowers from around the world. Tourist visits are expected to rise to 25 lakh this year.

February 16, 2026

Wild Tusker 'Padayappa' Causes Havoc in Idukki's Munnar During Musth Period

The wild tusker 'Padayappa' has damaged vehicles and scared residents in Idukki’s Munnar area at night. Forest officials say its violent acts are linked to its musth cycle and warn locals to stay safe.