NATIONAL 
EXPRESS

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Gujarat this afternoon. During his visit, PM Modi will inaugurate Micron Technology’s state-of-the-art Semiconductor Assembly, Test and Packaging (ATMP) facility in Sanand. This landmark event marks the official commencement of commercial production and shipment of the first Made-in-India semiconductor memory modules. Union Minister of Electronics and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw will also be present on the occasion. Akashvani’s correspondent reports that the inauguration of Micron’s Sanand facility today marks a transformative leap for India’s technology ecosystem. With a total investment of over ₹22,500 crore, the project represents the first proposal approved under the India Semiconductor Mission. This project, which saw its ground-breaking just in September 2023, is now ready to convert advanced DRAM and NAND wafers into finished products for markets worldwide. A key highlight of this facility is its nearly 500,000 square feet of cleanroom space, ranking it among the largest raised-floor cleanrooms in the world. By commencing commercial shipments of the first indigenous memory modules, India is taking a decisive step toward self-reliance in the semiconductor sector.

Dharni Prasad Neopaney Sharma from the picturesque state of Sikkim has been honored with the prestigious Rabindra Ratna Puraskar 2026, presented by the Veyil Foundation. This distinguished recognition celebrates individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society through selfless service, compassion, and meaningful community engagement. Dharni Prasad Neopaney Sharma’s inspiring journey in social work stands as a testament to the transformative power of dedication and humanity. During the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, when fear and uncertainty gripped communities across the nation, Dharni Prasad Neopaney Sharma emerged as a pillar of support for those in distress. Understanding the urgent need for accessible medical assistance, he provided free vehicle services to patients requiring hospital visits and emergency care. His initiative ensured that countless individuals, particularly the elderly and economically disadvantaged, were able to reach medical facilities safely and on time. His service was not limited to Sikkim alone. Extending his humanitarian efforts to Delhi, he continued to offer transportation and support to individuals facing hardships, demonstrating that true social responsibility transcends geographical boundaries. At a time when mobility was restricted and resources were strained, his unwavering commitment brought hope and relief to many families. Beyond his pandemic-related initiatives, Dharni Prasad Neopaney Sharma has also made significant contributions in the field of education. He played a crucial role in revitalizing the Government Primary School in Taksang Kaizaley, which faced the threat of closure due to declining student enrollment. Recognizing the long-term impact such a closure would have on the local community, he undertook tireless advocacy efforts and implemented innovative outreach strategies to encourage parents to re-enroll their children. Through persistent engagement and community mobilization, he successfully increased student enrollment, ensuring the continued functioning of the school and safeguarding access to education for future generations. His multifaceted contributions — spanning healthcare support during a global crisis and educational advocacy at the grassroots level — highlight the profound impact that one determined individual can have on society. Dharni Prasad Neopaney Sharma embodies the spirit of compassion, leadership, and civic responsibility that the Rabindra Ratna Puraskar seeks to recognize and celebrate. His story serves as an inspiration, reminding us that meaningful change often begins with simple acts of kindness, carried out with sincerity and steadfast commitment to the well-being of others.

Global oil prices hovered near seven-month highs yesterday as rising geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran supported the market, even as growing American crude inventories pointed to concerns about oversupply. Brent crude futures were trading around 71 dollars a barrel in London, up about half a percent on the day and close to their highest levels since late July. West Texas Intermediate futures were near 65.8 dollars per barrel, gaining about 0.3 percent and holding close to levels last seen in early August. Both global benchmarks have risen nearly eight percent over the past month as traders factored in a higher risk premium linked to tensions in West Asia East. Markets are closely watching the possibility of confrontation between Washington and Tehran, which could disrupt crude supplies from the region. Iran is the third-largest producer in the OPEC. However, fresh data from the American Petroleum Institute showed U.S. crude inventories rose by about 11.4 million barrels in the week to February 20, highlighting concerns that global supply may still exceed demand. Traders are now awaiting official stockpile figures from the U.S. Energy Information Administration for further direction on prices.

Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan will inaugurate a new 10 kW FM transmitter station in Shivamogga in Karnataka today at 12:30 PM at the FM Transmitter Center in Vidyanagar. Operating at 101.4 MHz, the facility will significantly expand the broadcast coverage of Akashvani Bhadravathi across Shivamogga and eight nearby districts. The transmitter center, now fully operational, is the outcome of nearly a decade of sustained efforts. The upgraded 10 kW facility is expected to strengthen outreach by delivering clear information, educational content, and awareness programs to lakhs of people in both rural and urban areas of Central Karnataka.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conferred with the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ in recognition of his exceptional contribution to strengthening strategic relations between India and Israel. The Indian Prime Minister is the first leader to receive this medal, which is the highest honour of the Knesset, the Israeli Parliament. Earlier yesterday, Prime Minister Modi held a tete e tete with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv. The two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of the India-Israel bilateral relations and discussed expanding cooperation in areas such as water management, agriculture, technology and more. Our correspondent from Tel Aviv has filed this report on Prime Minister’s today’s events.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India stands firmly and with full conviction with Israel in the fight against terrorism. In a first-ever address to Israeli parliament – Knesset by an Indian Prime Minister, Mr Modi delivered a powerful message of solidarity with Israel, asserting that terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere. In his landmark speech, which received a huge applause from Israeli parliamentarians on a number of occasions, Mr Modi showed India’s strong resolve to combat terrorism with full force. Mr Modi said he has brought with him the greetings of 1.4 billion Indians and a message of friendship, respect and partnership. Prime Minister also mentioned that Jewish communities have lived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination. The Prime Minister described the Gaza Peace Initiative endorsed by UN Security Council as a path towards “just and durable peace” in the region. He said India has expressed its firm support for the initiative. The Prime Minister said, for the last few years, India has been the fastest-growing major economy in the world. Soon, the country will be among the top three economies globally.

The documentary Biological Sports, directed and produced by Kolagani Sampath Kumar, earned recognition at the critically acclaimed Global Independent Film Festival in 2026. Known for spotlighting innovative, independent, and concept-driven cinema, the festival’s platform reinforces the documentary’s intellectual depth and experimental strength. Its selection signals not only artistic merit but also the film’s ability to provoke meaningful dialogue around health, perception, and the human body. Producer & Director Kolagani Sampath Kumar Running for 5 minutes and 49 seconds, Biological Sports is an English-language documentary that challenges conventional ideas about fitness assessment. In a world dominated by digital trackers, fitness apps, and numerical performance indicators, the film proposes an alternative philosophy — that true understanding of the body comes not from statistics, but from direct physical experience. At the core of the documentary lies the Weight Balancing project, an experimental platform developed from real-life observations and practical engagement. The project introduces a custom-built prototype known as the Weight Balance Machine. Unlike modern gym equipment or sensor-based devices, this machine operates on a simple mechanical principle involving a standing plate connected through a hook, rope, and pulley mechanism to stone counterweights. When a participant stands correctly on the plate, equilibrium is achieved at a certain counterweight level. This balance visually and physically represents the individual’s current strength and stability. However, when the counterweight surpasses the person’s capacity, imbalance occurs immediately. There are no complex readings, no digital graphs, and no hidden calculations — only a clear, tangible experience of limitation. This direct feedback becomes the most powerful element of the project. The moment of imbalance is not framed as failure, but as awareness. It encourages reflection on one’s physical state and inspires motivation for improvement. The body becomes both the measuring instrument and the subject being measured. The documentary thoughtfully bridges basic mechanics with human physiology, transforming physical effort into a participatory learning experience. Through minimalistic design and conceptual clarity, Biological Sports emphasizes that fitness is not merely calculated — it is felt. Strength is not simply recorded — it is experienced. Its recognition at a critically respected international festival underscores the film’s originality and philosophical relevance. By questioning data-driven fitness culture and re-centering physical perception, Biological Sports positions itself as both an artistic experiment and a social commentary. The film ultimately suggests that the path to health awareness begins not on a screen, but within the body itself — through balance, sensation, and mindful engagement. Through this innovative approach, Biological Sports stands as a compelling example of how documentary cinema can transform simple mechanical concepts into profound reflections on human potential and self-awareness.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India deeply values its enduring friendship with Israel, built on trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to peace and progress. In response to a social media post by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mr. Modi said he agrees with him about the strong bond between India and Israel, as well as the diverse nature of bilateral relations between the two countries. Mr Modi added that he is looking forward to discussions between the two sides during his upcoming visit to Israel. In a social media post, the Israeli Prime Minister said the bond between Israel and India is a powerful alliance between two global leaders. He added that both countries are partners in innovation, security, and a shared strategic vision. Prime Minister Netanyahu also said that together the two sides are building an axis of nations committed to stability and progress. From AI to regional cooperation, the partnership between the two nations continues to reach new heights, he added.

In Jammu and Kashmir, the Army’s Northern Commander, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, inaugurated the ‘Banwat Ekta Sthal’ – a public monument symbolising national pride and sovereignty – near the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that the project was completed in a record 45 days and features a towering 105 feet National Flag, the tallest in the Poonch district. Apart from the national flag, the facility includes a children’s park for recreation and an ‘Ekta Mandap’ to promote peace.

Delhi Police Crime Branch has busted an organised interstate and international drug trafficking syndicate. According to the Delhi Police, 5 individuals have been arrested in the case. The Police have also seized a consignment of over 18 lakh psychotropic tablets, valued at approximately 8 to 9 crore rupees in the illicit market. Talking to the media, Delhi’s Deputy Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, Vikram Singh, said that the drugs were going to the UK via Mundra port, but with the coordinated effort, they have recovered this massive haul. In total, 528 kilograms of psychotropic tablets were recovered.

Amid ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity in various parts of Mexico, the Embassy of India in Mexico today issued an advisory to Indian citizens residing in the country, urging them to exercise caution and shelter in place. The Embassy has urged Indian nationals in the affected areas to avoid zones with active law enforcement activity and to remain alert to their surroundings. The Embassy asked citizens to seek shelter and minimise unnecessary movement outside their place of stay. It is also advised to monitor local media for updates and to follow the directions of local authorities. In the event of an emergency, they are directed to call 911. The Embassy asked the citizens to keep family and friends advised of their location and well-being via phone, text, and social media. For any assistance, the Embassy can be contacted via telephone at +52 55 4847 7539.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah today said that the nation has taken a pledge to wipe out Naxalism from the country by 31st of next month. Addressing the CRPF personnel during the 87th Raising Day parade in Guwahati, Mr. Shah said that the CRPF has rendered unparalleled service to the nation. He said, CRPF jawans and the Cobra Battalions are doing unprecedented work in making the country Naxal-free. The Minister said, CRPF played important roles in restoring peace in northeast region, Jammu and Kashmir and in Maoists hit areas. He said, without CRPF the country cannot imagine of its internal security. Reiterating the role played by the CRPF in restoring peace, the Home Minister said that several battalions of this force has been deployed in the violence hit Manipur to restore peace. He paid tributes to those CRPF personnel, who lost their lives while protecting the nation. He said 2,270 brave personnel have laid down their lives in service to the country. He said, 700 personnel of this force sacrificed their lives in north-east alone. On this occasion, Union Home Minister reviewed the ceremonial parade and took the salute. He also conferred medals of bravery to CRPF personnel, honouring their exceptional courage. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was also present on the ocassion. Later, in the afternoon, the Union Minister will lay the foundation stone for a new campus of the 10th Assam Police Battalion at Kachutoli, a nearby area of Guwahati. The battalion is currently functioning from Guwahati and will shift to the newly developed premises once construction is completed.