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Showing posts from February, 2026

Two activists held for communal tension in Karnataka’s Bagalkote

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Bagalkote : Two persons have been arrested in connection with communal clashes during a Shivaji Jayanti procession in Bagalkote, police said on Sunday, February 22. An FIR was registered following the incident in the Qila Oni area, where stones were allegedly thrown during the procession. “Based on video footage and photographic evidence, we have arrested two persons in connection with the stone-pelting,” a police officer said. Police said the duo had been booked on charges of attempting to incite violence , obstructing police personnel from discharging their duties and damaging private property. Also Read Andaman: 4 arrested for extorting money from man after honey trapping man “The accused have been remanded to judicial custody,” the officer added. The city witnessed communal clashes when stones and slippers were reportedly hurled at a Shivaji Jayanti procession near a mosque at Qila Oni locality on Thursday. Meanwhile, police said restrictions have been imposed on Pram...

AI will redefine tech jobs, coding will no longer be core: Nandan Nilekani

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Bengaluru: Artifical Intelligence is rewriting the grammar of software development. And writing codes will no longer be the central role for tech professionals, Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani said Tuesday. AI, he said, is being adopted faster than any previous technological transition, from the internet to smartphones, and is poised to fundamentally reshape how businesses operate. “Talent will have to deal with a world where writing code will not be the goal. It’ll actually be making AI work, orchestration, and those kinds of things,” Nilekani said at Infosys’ Investor Day. “Customer journeys, operating models, and mental models all have to change. Every enterprise must rethink how it operates.” While coding may end, new jobs will be created. The talent transformation is huge, he said, adding there will be a need for AI engineers, forward deployment engineers, forensic analysts – roles that didn’t exist a few years ago. Greenfield coding productivity is not the real challeng...

Bengaluru airport ships over 60 mn roses this Valentine’s season

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Bengaluru : As the Valentine’s season drove peak demand of fresh roses worldwide, Kempegowda International Airport here shipped around 60 million rose stems, weighing more than 2,700 tonnes, across 26 international destinations, officials said on Tuesday. The facility, operated by Bangalore International Airport Limited, also transported roses to 47 domestic destinations. The exports mark a 38 per cent year-on-year increase in stem volumes and a 64 per cent rise in tonnage, reinforcing the Bengaluru Airport ‘s position as India’s leading gateway for perishable exports for five consecutive years, they said. Also Read French defence major Thales sets up R&D centre in Bengaluru According to a BIAL statement, international shipments remained steady at 305 MT with Singapore emerging as the top overseas destination, followed by Kuala Lumpur, Abu Dhabi, New York and Kuwait. New international destinations added this season include Los Angeles , London Gatwick , Dallas Fort Worth, To...

Hyderabad: Mob attacks drivers transporting eggs at Tukkuguda

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Hyderabad: Two Muslim mini truck drivers transporting eggs were allegedly attacked by a mob at around midnight in Tukkuguda, Hyderabad, on February 15. Syed Ali and Waseem Ali were transporting eggs from Shadnagar. At around midnight, as their vehicle reached near the Tukkuguda bus stop, around 15 people with wooden sticks and some with rods, blocked them. Sensing danger, the drivers did not stop. At that instant, the mob launched an attack, causing damage to the windshield. There were other vehicles behind that were also allegedly damaged. Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT) Spokesperson Amjed Ullah Khan shared the incident on his social media platform. Communal attack reported in Tukkuguda (Maheswaram, Ranga Reddy). Two Muslim youth Syed Ali and Waseem transporting eggs in TG 07 U7645 were stopped, assaulted and their auto damaged. Shockingly, Pahadeshareef Police allegedly delayed action. Immediate intervention needed.… pic.twitter.com/P7f7DlAfAC — Amjed Ullah Khan MBT (@amjedmb...

French defence major Thales sets up R&D centre in Bengaluru

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Bengaluru: French defence major Thales on Monday announced setting up an R&D centre here that will serve as a hub for advanced research, supporting the country’s self-reliance vision. With this, India has joined the ranks of Thales’ five global corporate laboratories for Research & Technology, alongside those in France, the UK, Canada, and Singapore, it said. According to the company statement, Thales Research & Technology India, unveiled during the week of the India AI Impact Summit, will serve as a hub for advanced research, supporting the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision. The centre will also provide a special emphasis on open innovation in the hardware domain, enabling stronger collaborations with start-ups, industry partners and academic research community to develop breakthrough technologies for critical systems, it said. It will have a dedicated team of researchers, including Master’s and PhD scholars, the company said, adding that Thales dedicates more than four ...

BJP MLA seeks forensic probe of Karnataka CM’s signature in fake-note row

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Bengaluru: A day after police registered a case over a fake note purportedly issued from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) in Karnataka, BJP MLA V Sunil Kumar escalated his attack on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday, February 14, demanding a forensic probe into the document and questioning the CMO’s functioning. Police registered the case against an unidentified person on Friday, following a complaint from the CMO over the circulation on social media of the fake note, which falsely claimed that a district health and family welfare officer in Mandya was posted as the deputy commissioner of excise in Mysuru. The case was lodged at the Vidhana Soudha police station under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) provisions relating to forgery and the use of forged documents. Also Read Karnataka locals ‘celebrate’ Deepawali by lighting diyas in potholes The CMO has alleged that the act was carried out with malicious intent to bring disrepute to the chief minister and the Congress g...

I always live with hope, confidence; time will answer: D K Shivakumar on leadership issue

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Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy CM D K Shivakumar, who returned from New Delhi after meeting the Congress high command amid the leadership tussle in the state, on Friday, February 13, said he lives with “hope and confidence” and that there will always be fruit for the efforts made. He also reiterated that “time will answer”, in the wake of reports that both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah may soon be called to New Delhi by the party leadership to discuss a possible transition of power. Also Read Telangana MP seeks forest project clearances from Environment Minister “I always live with hope and confidence. There will always be fruit for the effort, whether it is for you, for me, or for anyone else. Where there is effort, there is fruit; where there is devotion, there is God,” Shivakumar told reporters in response to a question after returning from New Delhi. Asked whether the fruit of his efforts could be expected soon, he said, “Let’s talk about that some other time.” Respondi...

Mehboob and Noor conduct adopted son’s wedding as per Hindu customs

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Hyderabad: In times of communal tensions across India, a Muslim couple, Mehboob Hasan Naikwadi and Noor Jahan, organised the wedding of their son Somashekar Pujeri with Poonam as per Hindu rituals, in the quaint town of Hukkeri, Karnataka. Proving that love holds no barriers of caste or religion, the family, drawn from different traditions, the elderly Muslim couple conducted the wedding in harmony, inviting villagers to share in their shared celebration. Several community leaders, including Basavaprabhu Vantamuri, participated with enthusiasm. Mehboob Hasan Naiwadi’s act is an example for society, which has been seeing an increase in communal tensions, Vantamuri said during his speech at the wedding. The Naikwadis had adopted Somashekhar and his brother almost 20 years ago when they were left orphaned after their parents died in an untimely road accident. The children had no immediate relatives who could take care of them. Also Read After 13 years, Centre revives Rs 3.6 lakh c...

Bengaluru set to experience Hyderabad’s Ramzan nights this year

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Ramzan has always been a vibrant and unforgettable affair in Hyderabad, transforming the city’s nights into a bustling tapestry of culinary delights, festive shopping, and communal spirit. For years, residents and visitors alike have flocked to the city’s iconic bazaars and eateries to soak in the unique atmosphere that only Ramzan in Hyderabad can offer. If you have ever dreamt of experiencing those electrifying vibes but live in Bengaluru, worry not. The festive spirit of Hyderabad is making its way to your city, promising an experience that will bridge the miles. Hyderabad’s coveted Daawat-e-Ramzaan is coming to Bengaluru in Ramzan 2026. Daawat-e-Ramzaan in Bengaluru For years, Anam Mirza’s Daawat-e-Ramzaan has been one of the highlights of Hyderabad’s festive calendar. Traditionally held at King’s Palace, the expo blends fashion, food and festivity into a single, high-energy celebration. Known for its carefully curated designer stalls, the exhibition showcases Pakistani suit...

Tamannaah becomes face of Mysore sandal soap amid ‘non-Kannadiga’ row

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Bengaluru: Actress Tamannaah Bhatia formally took on her role as the brand ambassador of KSDL, amid objections from some persons, including a BJP MP, who questioned the rationale behind picking a non-Kannada speaking actor to represent the famous Mysore Sandal Soap. The government defended its pick, saying Bhatia was selected based on merit and business considerations. As part of efforts to strengthen the market presence of products manufactured by the State-owned Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL), an organisation with a legacy of more than a century, the two-year tenure of Bhatia as the company’s brand ambassador commenced from Tuesday. As part of the occasion, at an event held here, Bhatia unveiled 57 products of the organisation, including Mysore Sandal Soap, which has now been introduced in a refreshed and contemporary packaging. The products that have received innovative packaging include sandalwood oil, jasmine-scented soaps, perfumes, toothpaste, coconut oil, p...

Bengaluru: Son held for murdering retired naval officer father, dentist mother

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Bengaluru: In a shocking incident, a 33-year-old man has allegedly stabbed his father and mother to death at their residence in Adarsha Vista Apartments in Vignan Nagar. The accused has been arrested by the police. The deceased have been identified as Naveen Chandra Bhatt, 60, a retired Captain of the Indian Navy, and Dr Shyamala Bhatt, 55, a dentist. The couple were residing in the apartment along with their son, the accused, Rohan Bhatt. According to the police, the incident is suspected to have occurred following a domestic dispute. During an argument, Rohan allegedly attacked his parents with a knife in a fit of anger. The injured couple were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital; however, they were declared dead despite medical efforts, police said. Also Read Bengaluru metro puts annual fare revision on hold The jurisdictional HAL police have arrested Rohan Bhatt and are questioning him in connection with the case. A detailed investigation is underway to ascertain the ex...

Shivakumar to meet party leaders in Delhi

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Bengaluru : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar will go to New Delhi to meet party leaders on Tuesday, February 10. “I will be meeting the party leaders who have called me to Delhi. During the visit, I will also meet Union Water Resource Minister C R Patil and legal counsels as well,” he told reporters here on Monday. Asked if top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has called him to Delhi , Shivakumar said, “I can’t disclose names of all the people I will be meeting. Why are you so curious? I am not just the Deputy CM but also the Congress state president. I will complete six years as the KPCC President on March 10 and it is my duty to meet party MPs and party leaders.” “I keep meeting my party leaders and share my difficulties, sorrows, joys and aspirations,” Shivakumar added. Also Read CM Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar lead “Raj Bhavan chalo” protest against MGNREGA ‘repeal’ Asked about his Delhi visit when his department pre-budget meetings are scheduled, the Deputy CM said...

Bengaluru metro puts annual fare revision on hold

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Bengaluru: BMRCL on Sunday, February 8, said it has put on hold the implementation of the annual fare revision, which was scheduled to come into effect from February 9. In a statement, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited said the earlier announcement regarding the fare revision would not be implemented until further orders, indicating that a final decision is still pending. Clarifying its position, BMRCL said, “The media release dated February 5 announcing the implementation of the annual fare revision with effect from February 9 has been kept on hold till further orders.” The corporation added that the matter would be taken up by its board before any final decision is made. “The decision on the revised fare will be communicated after the board’s review,” the release added. Earlier in the day, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya spoke to commuters to gauge their views. Later, he told reporters that they were upset over frequent fare revisions and accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah ...

Siddaramaiah will be CM till Congress decides otherwise: Karnataka Home Minister

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Mysuru: Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Saturday, February 8, said Siddaramaiah will be the chief minister of the state, until the Congress high command decides otherwise. He said, according to him the high command has not decided anything on CM change till now. The senior leader from the Dalit community, also played down the demand from some sections that he should be made the CM, by stating that it is up to the high command to decide. Responding to a question while speaking to reporters, he said, “The high command is watching everything, and when they feel there is a need, they will decide. They may be of the opinion that there is no such situation now, hence they have not said anything so far on the issue”. Asked whether Siddaramaiah will be the CM for a full five-year term, he said, “Who made Siddaramaiah the CM? It is the high command, and until the high command says that Siddaramaiah will remain in the post”. “As far as I know, the high command has not decided a...

Manchester United among top nine bidders for RCB: Report

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New Delhi: Reigning Women’s Premier League and Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru ( RCB ) have reportedly received bids from nine parties, including a USD 1.8 billion offer from the Glazer family, which owns top England Premier League club Manchester United. Lalit Modi, the former chief of the Indian Premier League, confirmed to IANS on Saturday, February 7, that the bid from the Glazer family has already reached USD 1.75 billion. “I assume this is based on the current scenario of 74 games and not 94 games, which I believe will become the norm, as the IPL was originally conceived as a full home-and-away format.” This will solidify the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s ( BCCI ) own revenue, especially at a time when the board’s central revenues are under tremendous pressure — firstly due to its share of International Cricket Council revenue, which could realistically decline by 50–60 per cent, and secondly because bilateral rights revenue may a...

Deve Gowda bats for Hyderabad-Bengaluru high-speed railway corridor

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New Delhi: Former prime minister HD Deve Gowda on Thursday, February 5, congratulated Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for allocating higher funds and announcing major projects for the railway sector in the Union Budget, going beyond the immediate needs of the nation.  Deve Gowda urged that the Bengaluru-Hyderabad high-speed railway corridor be extended up to Bidar. In a letter addressed to the Railway Minister, the former PM appreciated the announcement of seven new high-speed rail corridors, covering nearly 4,000 km, in the 2026 Union Budget.  He said these corridors would act as growth connectors, promoting sustainable transport and economic development. Among them, the Chennai-Bengaluru-Hyderabad corridor (including the Hyderabad-Chennai and Chennai-Bengaluru sections) will create a high-speed triangle in the southern region. “This corridor will directly address the aspirations and mobility needs of the people of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karn...

Lingayat legislators’ meet not show of strength: Minister MB Patil

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Bengaluru: Karnataka Minister MB Patil on Thursday, February 5, said the recent meeting of the Lingayat Congress legislators was not a show of strength, but it was for the welfare of the community. According to him, the Aland MLA BR Patil had mooted the proposal, which Ramdurg MLA Ashok Pattan endorsed and convened a meeting of the Lingayat legislators a few days ago. MB Patil said there were no discussions on matters that create confusion, such as who should become minister and who should be the chief minister. “A meeting of Lingayat MLAs from the Congress was held four days ago. It was not a power display. Ashok Patil and BR Patil convened the meeting, and discussions were held only on community welfare,” the Commerce and Industries Minister told reporters here. Also Read Opposition MPs stage walkout during PM’s reply in Rajya Sabha He said such meetings were routine and held by legislators from various communities. “But projecting our meeting as a Lingayat power show is no...

Bengaluru metro fare to go up from Feb 9

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Bengaluru : The Bengaluru metro on Thursday, February 5, announced an annual automatic fare revision for Namma Metro, which will come into effect from February 9. The hike is somewhere between four per cent and 10 per cent, ranging from Re 1 to Rs 5 based on the distance. The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) said that it is being implemented as per the First Fare Fixation Committee (FFC) constituted under the Metro Railways (Operation & Maintenance) Act, 2002. The BMRCL, in a release, said the FFC, while recommending the revised fare structure, had observed that “revision of fare after 7.5 years and optimisation of fare zones from 29 to 10 has resulted in an average increase of 51.55 per cent.” Also Read Karnataka Assembly passes resolution asking Centre to repeal VB-G RAM G To avoid such steep increases in the future, the committee recommended “to revise the fare annually by having a transparent Annual Automatic Fare Revision Formula linked with O&M cos...

Karnataka: Congress seeks apology from BJP MLC over ‘Pakistan’ remark

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Bengaluru: The controversy surrounding the “Pakistani tongue” remark made by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLC CT Ravi continued, disrupting proceedings in the Karnataka Legislative Council as Congress members pressed for an apology from MLC Ravi. As BJP MLC Ravi remained absent from the Assembly House, State Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti said on Wednesday, February 4, that House proceedings would continue until the BJP MLC arrived. The development led to heated exchanges between the ruling Congress and the Opposition BJP and JD(S) members. Meanwhile, Karnataka Minister and floor leader NS Boseraju moved a resolution in the House seeking action over the “Pakistani tongue” remark by BJP MLC Ravi. Also Read HC takes suo motu note of over 1.08 lakh missing persons cases in UP The resolution proposed that BJP MLC Ravi be suspended until the end of the Assembly session. State Legislative Council Chairman Horatti said that BJP MLC Ravi was absent and that he would ta...