Navi Mumbai: A Navi Mumbai police constable was arrested for allegedly murdering a friend who started seeing a woman he was in a relationship with. He allegedly strangled the friend to death with the help of three aides in Navi Mumbai’s Kalamboli, drove 190km in his car to a Satara village, set the body on fire, and dumped it in a farm’s well.The constable, Bandu Bhise (49), who was married, was attached to Rabale MIDC police station. Two of his accomplices were nabbed in Pune and the third in Satara’s Phaltan. The farm owner in Sukhed village found the partially burnt body on Feb 6 and alerted police, said Satara SP Tushar Doshi. Since the legs were tied with a rope and the autopsy report indicated death by strangulation, a murder case was lodged. Shivaji Jaypatre, assistant inspector, Lonand police, said the local crime branch, led by inspector Arun Deokar, in assistance with teams from Lonand police station, scoured through footage from around 300 CCTV cameras on the stretch till Pune for three days. Police teams questioned the owners of some 15 vehicles and zeroed in on Bhise’s car, which was caught on camera at Khed-Shivapur toll plaza in Pune district while returning to Mumbai early on Feb 6. The car was registered with the Pune RTO and police traced its owner, Bhise, to Kalamboli on Feb 9. During questioning, Bhise initially gave evasive replies but later confessed to the murder. He revealed the names of the victim—Somnath Bobade (30) from Roadpali in Kalamboli—and his accomplices—Vijay Pawar (36), Kiran Gaikwad (27) and Srinivas Lone (25). Bhise told police that he and his aides called Bobade for a meeting to resolve their dispute over dating the same woman. But when Bobade arrived, the four allegedly strangled him to death with a rope inside Bhise’s car and drove to Sukhed village in the hopes of throwing police off their scent. At the village, they set the body on fire and dumped it in a farm’s well.Deokar said Bobade was unmarried and worked as a cab driver. The woman is estranged from her husband.

Afghanistan head coach Jonathan Trott described his side’s defeat to South Africa as “devastating”, admitting the narrow loss in a dramatic T20 World Cup contest would linger with his players. The Proteas edged Afghanistan after a gripping encounter that required two Super Overs, leaving South Africa relieved and Afghanistan heartbroken in one of the most remarkable matches since the tournament began in 2007. Addressing the media after the game on Wednesday, Trott reflected on the emotional toll of back-to-back defeats in a demanding group.

“Just shows what we have as a side. So we’ve got some amazing players and it’s just really devastating for the guys after a tough loss a few days ago against New Zealand and now against South Africa in a tough group as well,” Trott said. The South African-born former England Test batter acknowledged that such losses can hurt deeply. “These guys are never shy of rising up against the challenges that they face throughout their lives on and off the field. “So today they should be very proud and obviously these types of losses sometimes they can hurt and sting for a while but I think it’s important we look at those areas that we did really well in, but also areas that we could improve and things we could have done better. “I think South Africa fielded pretty well actually as well. The run out, a few catches on the boundary, on the ring, those sorts of things. I think they fielded really well. Maybe that was the difference today a little bit,” the Afghanistan head coach said. Under Trott’s guidance, Afghanistan have made significant strides, reaching the semifinals in the previous edition of the T20 World Cup and the quarterfinals of the 2023 ODI World Cup. Though he is set to step down after this tournament, Trott declined to reflect on his tenure, insisting his focus remains on the remaining fixtures. Trott also reserved special praise for Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who smashed 84 off 42 balls in the chase of 187 and followed it with a blistering 18 off 4 balls in the second Super Over. “Those innings as we saw today, I think he should play more often if I’m honest, with the amount of talent that he has and the physique and the sporting ability and natural hand-eye coordination. “He wears his heart on his sleeve and he’s quite an animated character. I think the years that I’ve been with him now, I’m just trying to get him to be a little bit more consistent in everything that he does.”

US stocks moved closer to record levels on Wednesday after data showed the country’s unemployment rate unexpectedly improved last month, boosting investor confidence about the resilience of the economy.The S&P 500 rose 0.5% and was trading just below its all-time high set late last month. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 222 points, or 0.4%, while the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.5% as of 9:35 am Eastern time, AP reported.Treasury yields also climbed after the US Labor Department said employers added 130,000 jobs last month, higher than economists’ expectations of 75,000. The stronger data helped ease concerns triggered a day earlier by a report indicating US household spending may be slowing.However, revisions in the report showed employers added only 181,000 jobs for the whole of last year, sharply lower than the previously reported 584,000, marking the weakest annual performance since 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the economy.“We all knew there would be downward revisions, but these were better than expected,” Brian Jacobsen, chief economic strategist at Annex Wealth Management, said.Energy and industrial stocks led gains in the S&P 500, reflecting optimism around economic activity. Caterpillar rose 3.9%, while Exxon Mobil gained 2.4%.The gains offset declines in some stocks. Moderna fell 10.5% after saying the US Food and Drug Administration is refusing to consider its application for a new flu vaccine made using mRNA technology. The move reflects heightened regulatory scrutiny of vaccines under Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr.Robinhood Markets dropped 11% despite reporting stronger-than-expected quarterly profit, as revenue missed forecasts and analysts flagged concerns about rising expenses in 2026 and weak crypto trading volumes.Kraft Heinz declined 4.1% despite posting better-than-expected quarterly results. CEO Steve Cahillane said the company is pausing plans to split into two businesses while investing $600 million in marketing, sales, and research and development to restore growth.In the bond market, the yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.17% from 4.16% late Tuesday, while the two-year Treasury yield increased to 3.51% from 3.45%.The stronger jobs data prompted traders to scale back expectations on the number of interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve this year, though most still expect at least two cuts, according to CME Group data.The Fed has paused rate cuts for now, but a weaker labour market could have prompted quicker easing. The next key data point for markets will be US consumer inflation data due on Friday.Globally, stock markets were mostly higher. South Korea’s Kospi rose 1%, while the UK’s FTSE 100 gained 0.9%.

Rajpal Yadav has been going through a tough time amidst legal and financial struggles. The actor has surrendered himself to Tihar jail in a cheque bounce case of Rs 9 crore. Before surrendering to the authorities, Yadav made an emotional statement and had said, “Sir, kya karoon? Mere paas paise nahin hain. Aur koi upaay nahin dikhta… Sir, yahan hum sab akele hain. There are no friends. I have to deal with this crisis on my own.”After Yadav surrendered to the authorities, now several big names from Bollywood have come out to support the actor in clearing his debt of Rs 9 crore. The actor’s manager revealed how actors like Ajay Devgn, Salman Khan, Varun Dhawan among others have helped him. The actor’s manager Goldie, told Screen, “A lot of people have reached out to help Rajpal Yadav. Actors like Sonu Sood, Salman Khan, and Ajay Devgn have extended their support. I was just on a call with David Dhawan, he too reached out. Ratan Nain, Varun Dhawan… many people are coming forward to help him this time, which Rajpal has deeply appreciated.”

When questioned about whether Rajpal had approached anyone for help before surrendering at Tihar, Goldie refrained from elaborating. “I would not like to comment on that,” he said. However, he acknowledged the industry’s solidarity, adding, “The good thing is that after his situation worsened, the industry has stood behind him like a rock—and that should be appreciated. Everyone has made commitments, but such transactions don’t happen overnight.”Goldie also expressed optimism about Rajpal’s potential release in the coming days. “Mentally, the family has to remain strong. Rajpal Bhai himself is very strong, and that strength runs in the family. There are also several celebrations lined up at home, with family functions scheduled later in February. Everyone wants Rajpal Bhai to be out by then. Hopefully, he should be out by tomorrow.”See More: ‘Family is hopeful’: Rajpal Yadav’s BAIL hearing tomorrow; manager reveals Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn and others lend supportProviding further details, he told the publication, “We have his bail hearing scheduled for tomorrow, and we are hopeful that he will be granted bail and released. The bail application has already been filed. We will be able to share more details after the hearing tomorrow.”Earlier, a number of public figures had already voiced their support, including Sonu Sood, Guru Randhawa, Gurmeet Choudhary, KRK, and music composer Rao Inderjeet Yadav. While most chose not to reveal specific contributions, Rao Inderjeet announced he would donate Rs 1.11 crore and even shared Rajpal Yadav’s bank details publicly to encourage others to pitch in. His appeal reportedly prompted politician Tej Pratap Yadav to pledge Rs 11 lakh, while KRK declared he would contribute Rs 10 lakh toward the cause. Mika Singh has offered help of Rs 11 lakh to the actor.

South Africa’s batting powerhouse took center stage in Ahmedabad on February 11, 2026, as they dismantled the Afghan bowling attack in a crucial T20 World Cup 2026 fixture. The innings was defined by clinical ball-striking from Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton, whose massive second-wicket partnership essentially batted the opposition out of the contest. During this high-stakes encounter, Quinton de Kock managed to eclipse a legendary milestone previously held by AB de Villiers, rewriting the history books for South African cricket. Their collective performance propelled the Proteas to a formidable total of 187/6, leaving the Afghan side with a mountainous chase.

Quinton de Kock shatters AB de Villiers’ legendary Proteas record with a blazing fifty against Afghanistan

In a moment that will be etched in the annals of South African cricket, Quinton de Kock officially surpassed the legendary AB de Villiers to become the nation’s highest run-scorer in T20 World Cup history. Entering the match needing just a handful of runs to eclipse the previous benchmark of 717, de Kock played a measured yet authoritative knock of 59 off 41 balls, taking his tournament tally to 737 runs. This milestone was achieved in 29 matches, one fewer than the 30 appearances it took de Villiers to set the original record. Beyond the aggregate, de Kock also equaled de Villiers for the most fifty-plus scores for South Africa in the competition, with both icons now tied at five.

Also READ: ‘Extra pressure on them’: Usman Tariq reveals his bowling plans ahead of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash with India

T20 World Cup 2026: Ryan Rickelton-De Kock partnership decimates the Afghanistan attack

The defining phase of the South African innings was a blistering 114-run stand between de Kock and Ryan Rickelton, which dismantled Afghanistan’s spin-heavy strategy in the middle overs. After Aiden Markram fell early, Rickelton took on the role of the primary aggressor, smashing a maiden T20 World Cup half-century with 61 runs off just 28 balls. The 10th over proved to be the turning point, as the pair looted 23 runs off Noor Ahmad, forcing the opposition into a defensive shell. While Rashid Khan eventually managed to remove both set batters in the same over, the foundation had already been laid for a massive score. Late cameos ensured that South Africa capitalized on the early carnage, finishing with a total that required Afghanistan to score at nearly 9.5 runs per over.

Top 5 run-scorers for South Africa in T20 World Cups

Rank	Player	Runs Scored
1	Quinton de Kock	737
2	AB de Villiers	717
3	JP Duminy	568
4	David Miller	482
5	Aiden Markram	448

Also READ: Sri Lanka star Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026; replacement announced

Indian Railways’ accelerated electrification push has sharply reduced diesel consumption, helping cut crude import dependence while expanding cleaner rail operations across the country. Mission-mode electrification has now covered about 99.4% of the Broad Gauge network, with the remaining stretches also taken up for completion.According to information shared by Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Lok Sabha, Indian Railways saved 178 crore litres of diesel in 2024-25 compared with 2016-17 levels, translating into a 62% reduction in consumption. The shift towards electric traction is being driven by both environmental and cost considerations, with electric traction proving more efficient than alternatives such as bio-diesel.Electrification progress has accelerated significantly over the past decade. Before 2014, about 21,801 route kilometres were electrified over nearly 60 years. In comparison, 46,900 route kilometres have been electrified between 2014 and 2025. Since 2023-24 alone, 10,932 route kilometres have been electrified till January 2026.Railways said all new line and multi-tracking projects are now being sanctioned and constructed with electrification as a standard feature.

Majority of railway zones fully electrified

Several railway zones have already achieved 100% electrification, including Central, Eastern, Northern, Western, East Coast, East Central, South Central, South Eastern, South East Central and West Central Railways, among others. Konkan Railway and Kolkata Metro have also achieved full electrification.A few zones are nearing completion, with North Western Railway at 99%, Northeast Frontier Railway at 99%, Southern Railway at 98% and South Western Railway at 96%.At the state level, 25 states and Union Territories have achieved 100% electrification of railway networks. Rajasthan stands at 99%, Assam at 98%, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka at 97%, while Goa has achieved 91% electrification.Seen geographically, the progress reflects a near nationwide transition to electric traction, covering major freight and passenger corridors.

Rs 29,826 crore spent on electrification in last five years

During the five-year period from 2020-21 to 2024-25, Indian Railways spent Rs 29,826 crore on electrification projects, including works in Tamil Nadu.Railways noted that project completion timelines depend on several external factors such as forest clearances, utility shifting, statutory approvals, terrain conditions, law and order issues and climate-related working constraints.

Shift to electric traction cuts energy import burden

The ministry said the transition has significantly reduced dependence on imported crude oil while improving long-term operational cost efficiency. Indian Railways spent Rs 32,378 crore on total traction energy consumption during 2024-25.Officials added that while bio-diesel testing has been undertaken in the past, electric traction remains significantly more beneficial from both cost and environmental standpoints.

Waste management push to improve passenger experience

Alongside electrification, Railways is expanding waste management and cleanliness infrastructure across trains and stations.Waste collected inside trains is disposed of at designated en-route stations. On-board housekeeping staff are prohibited from dumping waste on tracks, with penalties imposed for violations. Rag picking along tracks is carried out regularly to maintain cleanliness.Plastic bottle crushing machines have been installed at stations as required. Two-bin segregation systems have been introduced at many stations to separate biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste at source.Railways has also tied up with municipal bodies for waste disposal based on local feasibility. Infrastructure such as sewage treatment plants, effluent treatment plants and material recovery facilities has been installed at multiple locations.Passenger awareness campaigns are being conducted regularly to encourage proper waste disposal. Cleanliness drives under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan are also being organised periodically to maintain hygiene standards across the network.

Bio-toilet rollout eliminates direct waste discharge

Railways has also expanded installation of bio-toilets to eliminate direct discharge of human waste from trains. Between 2004 and 2014, 9,587 bio-toilets were installed. Since 2014, a total of 3,61,572 bio-toilets have been fitted in passenger coaches.

Nathan Ellis produced a fiery opening spell to propel an under-strength Australia to a commanding 67-run victory over Ireland in their Group B opener of the T20 World Cup on Wednesday. Defending 183, Australia’s pace spearhead ripped through the Irish top order, finishing with outstanding figures of 4 for 12 in 3.5 overs. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa then dismantled the middle and lower order with 4 for 23 from his four overs as Ireland were restricted to 115 for 9 in 16.5 overs.

Veteran Paul Stirling was retired hurt and did not bat. With Mitchell Marsh sidelined by a groin injury and senior quicks Mitchell Starc retired, plus Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood unavailable due to injuries, Ellis stepped up as the leader of the attack. He struck early, bowling Ross Adair with a skiddy delivery before Ben Calitz dragged one back onto his stumps against sharp pace and bounce. His initial spell read 3 for 9 in three overs. Zampa then tightened Australia’s grip, although George Dockrell’s 41 off 29 balls ensured Ireland crossed the 100-run mark. Ellis returned to claim his fourth wicket and close out the match. Earlier, Australia posted 182 for 6 after being sent in on a sluggish surface. Josh Inglis (37) and Cameron Green (21) set the tempo before Matthew Renshaw (37) and Marcus Stoinis (45) combined for a crucial 61-run stand. Ireland’s spinners bowled tidily but dropped chances proved costly. After Travis Head was reprieved in the first over and then run out in the second, Inglis and Green counterattacked briskly. Green struck towering sixes before falling to midwicket, while Inglis was dismissed following a stunning diving catch by Stirling. Harry Tector removed Glenn Maxwell, but Renshaw and Stoinis rebuilt steadily before Humphreys bowled Renshaw. Stoinis followed soon after, despite a powerful six. Ireland conceded 53 runs in the final five overs as Australia sealed an emphatic start.

Russia’s foreign minister Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday said that Moscow will continue to observe the limits set under the New START nuclear arms control treaty, even after its expiry, as long as the United States adheres to the same restrictions.The New START treaty formally expired on February 5, leaving the world’s two largest nuclear powers without any binding restrictions on their atomic arsenals for the first time in more than 50 years. The development has raised concerns globally about the possibility of an unchecked nuclear arms race.Last year, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow was ready to continue adhering to the treaty’s limits for another year if the United States agreed to do the same. However, US President Donald Trump has insisted that China should be included in any future agreement, a proposal Beijing has rejected.Speaking to Russia’s lower house of parliament, Lavrov said that Moscow would maintain its commitment to the treaty’s caps despite the absence of a formal extension.“The moratorium declared by the president will remain as long as the US doesn’t exceed these limits,” Lavrov told lawmakers. “We will act in a responsible and balanced way on the basis of analysis of the US military policies.”He added that “we have reason to believe that the United States is in no hurry to abandon these limits and that they will be observed for the foreseeable future.”“We will closely monitor how things are actually unfolding,” Lavrov said. “If our American colleagues’ intention to maintain some kind of cooperation on this is confirmed, we will work actively on a new agreement and consider the issues that have remained outside strategic stability agreements.”Lavrov’s remarks followed a report by Axios claiming that Russian and US negotiators discussed a possible informal understanding to continue observing the treaty’s limits for at least six months during talks held last week in Abu Dhabi.Commenting on the report, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that any extension would have to be formal. “It’s hard to imagine any informal extension in this sphere,” he said.At the same time, Peskov confirmed that future nuclear arms control was discussed during meetings in Abu Dhabi, where delegations from Russia, Ukraine and the United States held two days of talks focused on a potential peace settlement in Ukraine.“There is an understanding, and they talked about it in Abu Dhabi, that both parties will take responsible positions and both parties realize the need to start talks on the issue as soon as possible,” Peskov said.The New START treaty, signed in 2010 by then-US President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, was the last in a series of agreements between the two countries aimed at limiting nuclear weapons, beginning with the SALT I pact in 1972.Under New START, each country was limited to 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and no more than 700 deployed missiles and bombers. The treaty was originally due to expire in 2021 but was extended for five years.The agreement also allowed for on-site inspections to ensure compliance. However, inspections were halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and were never resumed. In February 2023, Putin announced the suspension of Russia’s participation in the treaty, citing tensions with the United States and NATO over the Ukraine conflict. Still, the Kremlin maintained that Russia would continue to respect the treaty’s numerical limits.In September, Putin proposed extending adherence to the treaty’s caps for another year to allow time to negotiate a replacement agreement.Despite the treaty’s expiration, both countries agreed on February 5 to restore high-level military-to-military communication following discussions in Abu Dhabi. The direct link had been suspended in 2021 amid worsening relations before Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine in February 2022.