Top News Headlines: Major stories of the day

From tragic incidents to political drama, international developments, and sports victories, today's headlines capture a wide range of significant events shaping India and the world. Here's a round-up of the top stories:

Jalgaon train tragedy claims 13 lives

A false fire alarm caused panic aboard the Pushpak Express in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon, leading to passengers jumping off the train and being hit by the oncoming Karnataka Express. Nine others were injured.

Also Read: Tragedy on Tracks: False fire alarm leads to 13 deaths in Maharashtra 

India thrashes England in 1st T20I

Abhishek Sharma’s fiery innings helped India chase 132 with 43 balls to spare in Kolkata. Jos Buttler’s 68 was the lone bright spot for England as India took a 1-0 lead in the series. 

Also Read: India wins first T20I against England, but Shami’s omission sparks questions

Jaishankar, Rubio discuss immigration issues

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and India’s EAM S Jaishankar addressed irregular immigration, H-1B visa concerns, and U.S.-India collaboration during their meeting following the Quad Foreign Ministers’ summit.

JD(U) sacks Manipur chief over BJP row
Ksh Biren Singh was sacked after unilaterally withdrawing support from the BJP-led government in Manipur. The move highlights JD(U)’s strained relations with BJP despite their alliance in Bihar.

Arvind Kejriwal demands tax relief for the middle class

Kejriwal called for raising income tax exemption limits, removing GST on essentials, and improving retirement benefits, accusing the government of targeting the middle class as "tax ATMs." 

Also Read: Kejriwal slams 'tax terrorism' on middle class, presents seven demands ahead of budget session

Yogi Adityanath leads cabinet at Maha Kumbh

U.P. CM Yogi Adityanath held a cabinet meeting at Prayagraj’s Maha Kumbh, announcing key projects like the Vindhya Expressway. Critics, however, accused him of politicizing the religious event. 

Also Read: UP CM Yogi Adityanath and Cabinet take holy dip at Sangam during Maha Kumbh

Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin reaffirm ties

Xi and Putin discussed strengthening strategic coordination during a video call, emphasizing mutual support amid mounting global tensions following Trump’s inauguration.

Hezbollah commander shot dead in Lebanon

Sheikh Muhammad Ali Hammadi, on the FBI’s most-wanted list, was killed outside his home in Lebanon. Reports suggest the killing stemmed from a personal feud rather than political motives.

Rare snowstorm hits U.S. South

A snowstorm swept across the southern U.S., including Florida, causing nine deaths, highway closures, and flight disruptions in regions unaccustomed to winter weather.

Saif Ali Khan thanks heroic auto drive

Actor Saif Ali Khan met Bhajan Singh Rana, the driver who rushed him to the hospital after a stabbing incident. Their heartfelt interaction at Lilavati Hospital went viral on social media.