Chinese researchers have identified a new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, which binds to the same receptor as the COVID-19 virus. The discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 has raised questions about the potential for another pandemic. The study serves as a reminder that emerging viruses continue to pose a threat, and global health monitoring remains crucial. Scientists urge continued research and surveillance to prevent another pandemic and ensure preparedness for any future outbreaks.

Punjab cabinet minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal has been left with only the NRI affairs portfolio as the state government scrapped the administrative reforms department. This change comes after his previous key portfolios of agriculture and rural development were reassigned during a cabinet reshuffle.

Five laborers, including a minor, were killed when a tipper truck unloaded sand onto their temporary shed at a construction site in Pasodi-Chandol, Jafrabad tehsil, trapping them while they slept. A woman and a child were rescued, while the driver fled and is being sought by police.

Punjab cabinet minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal has been left with only the NRI affairs portfolio as the state government scrapped the administrative reforms department. This change comes after his previous key portfolios of agriculture and rural development were reassigned during a cabinet reshuffle.

An audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) found that Rs 13.9 crore intended for afforestation in Uttarakhand was misused for unrelated purchases like iPhones, laptops, and court expenses. The audit also highlighted delays and unsuitability in compensatory afforestation, along with a low survival rate of planted trees.

India and Pakistan are set to clash in the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, with India aiming for a semifinal spot and Pakistan looking to avoid early elimination. India enters the match with confidence from a victory over Bangladesh, while Pakistan needs a win after a loss to New Zealand.

Elon Musk has openly criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, labeling him a dictator and accusing him of corruption. Musk challenged Zelensky’s commitment to democracy, citing his control over media and postponement of elections, and linked him to the death of an American filmmaker in Ukraine.

Authorities of UP Board have rescheduled the High School and Intermediate exams for Prayagraj district to March 9 due to traffic restrictions from the Maha Kumbh. This change affects only Prayagraj, with other districts maintaining their original schedule. The exams across the state begin on February 24.

The Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) 2024 are set to celebrate elite Indian athletes, para-athletes, and coaches in Lucknow today. Categories like Sportsperson of the Year include top performers such as Neeraj Chopra and Jasprit Bumrah. Additionally, the Coach of the Year category will spotlight mentors who have greatly impacted Indian sports.

Indian-origin politician Ruby Dhalla was disqualified from the Liberal Party leadership race, citing fabricated allegations and growing support as reasons for her exclusion. Despite this setback, Dhalla vows to continue her advocacy and support for Canadians while maintaining her stance on deporting illegal immigrants.

Congress legislators in Rajasthan staged an overnight sit-in protest in the state assembly following the suspension of six MLAs, including Govind Singh Dotsara. The suspension resulted from a protest over remarks made by Minister Avinash Gehlot about former PM Indira Gandhi. Despite talks with ministers, the issue remained unresolved, with the assembly adjourned until Monday.

A NWKRTC bus conductor and driver were attacked by a group of people in Balekundri (KH) after a language-based argument. The incident, sparked by a dispute over speaking Marathi, led to physical assault on the bus conductor and driver, drawing demands for immediate arrest of the attackers.

The ammonia level in Yamuna has spiked to around 8ppm in the past two days, potentially affecting water production at the treatment plants. The Delhi Jal Board has not yet shut down the plants, but the situation may lead to reduced water supply if the ammonia levels do not decrease.

Adarsh Developers has accused Amazon Web Services (AWS) of mishandling their financial and customer data, causing a financial loss of Rs 150 crore. The real estate firm reported that their data, stored on AWS, was deleted in January, leading to significant operational disruptions.

Delhi Police Crime Branch apprehended three members of the Bhau Gang after a firefight in Rohini. The gang, led by Himanshu Bhau, is notorious for extortion and has been active since 2020. Himanshu Bhau fled India recently following an Interpol notice. Police continue to investigate and interrogate the arrested individuals.