International

Isha Ambani and Queen Rania Al Abdullah Unite with India’s Leading Women Voices at Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre


Mumbai:

In a powerful gathering celebrating leadership and collaboration, Isha Ambani and Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah came together with some of India’s most influential women leaders, entrepreneurs, and creators at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC).

The evening brought together voices from diverse sectors including fashion, finance, philanthropy, sports, and the arts — creating a platform for dialogue centered on bold ideas, transformative leadership, and the importance of collaboration.

The conversation highlighted how women across industries are shaping India’s cultural and social narrative, breaking barriers and driving meaningful change. From entrepreneurial innovation to creative excellence and social impact, the gathering underscored the collective strength of women-led initiatives.

The event reflected NMACC’s broader commitment to amplifying voices that are redefining India’s cultural landscape. By fostering conversations between global leaders and Indian changemakers, the platform continues to position itself as a hub for dialogue, creativity, and empowerment.

The presence of Queen Rania — internationally recognised for her advocacy in education and women’s rights — alongside Isha Ambani, who has played a pivotal role in expanding India’s cultural and retail ecosystems, symbolised a shared vision of inclusive growth and cultural diplomacy.

The gathering stood as a celebration of leadership, collaboration, and the transformative power of women shaping the future.

National

Government of Bihar Launches “Gaddha Batao, ₹5,000 Pao” Initiative to Fix Potholes


In a unique citizen-driven governance move, the Government of Bihar has launched the “Gaddha Batao, ₹5,000 Pao” initiative starting today. Under this scheme, residents who report a verified pothole on state roads will receive a reward of ₹5,000.

The initiative aims to improve road infrastructure, ensure quicker pothole repairs, and enhance commuter safety across Bihar. By directly involving citizens in monitoring road conditions, the government seeks to create greater accountability and faster response mechanisms.

Officials stated that once a pothole is reported and verified by the concerned department, corrective measures will be initiated promptly, and the reporting citizen will be eligible for the financial reward.

The move reflects Bihar’s attempt to adopt participatory governance models where citizens become active stakeholders in infrastructure maintenance. Poor road conditions and potholes often lead to accidents, traffic disruptions, and vehicle damage — issues the scheme intends to address more efficiently.

With this initiative, Bihar joins a growing list of states experimenting with incentive-based reporting systems to strengthen transparency and service delivery.

Human Interest

Joshua De Souza Pens Heartfelt Note for His Father, Late Francisco C. J. A. De Pinto E Souza


“Some lives continue to shape our path long after they are gone.”

On the 7th death anniversary of former Goa Deputy Chief Minister Francisco C. J. A. De Pinto E Souza, his son and Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza shared a heartfelt tribute, remembering his father not only as a respected political leader but as his guide and greatest source of strength.

In an emotional note, Joshua reflected on the values, discipline, and commitment to public service that his father embodied throughout his political journey. He expressed that the lessons taught to him — both as a son and as a young leader — continue to influence every decision he makes while serving the people of Mapusa and Goa.

Francisco De Souza was widely regarded for his administrative acumen, grassroots connect, and dedication to Goa’s development. His tenure as Deputy Chief Minister left a lasting mark on the state’s political landscape.

Seven years after his passing, his legacy continues to live on — not only in public memory but through the leadership and service carried forward by his son. The tribute stands as a reminder that true leadership is measured not only by positions held, but by the values instilled in the next generation.

For Joshua De Souza, the remembrance was deeply personal — a reflection of gratitude, respect, and responsibility to uphold the principles that defined his father’s life and career.

TechPulse

Apple to Open Second Store in Mumbai’s Borivali Next Month


Tech giant Apple is set to strengthen its retail presence in India with the opening of its second Mumbai store next month, marking another milestone in the company’s aggressive expansion across the country. The upcoming outlet at Sky City Mall in Borivali will bring Apple’s signature retail experience closer to customers in the northern suburbs, making Mumbai the first city in India to host two official Apple retail locations.

The new store will feature specialist shopping assistance, interactive “Today at Apple” creative sessions, Genius Bar technical support, in-store pickup, free delivery options, and personalised engraving services on select products such as iPads and AirPods. The initiative reflects Apple’s strategy to deepen customer engagement through experiential retail spaces rather than traditional sales outlets.

Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted India’s growth potential during the company’s fiscal Q1 2026 earnings call, noting strong momentum in the premium smartphone segment and rising consumer demand. According to the company, high footfall is expected at the new store, driven by Mumbai’s expanding tech-savvy audience.

The Borivali opening follows Apple’s rapid retail rollout after launching flagship outlets across major Indian cities, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, and Noida since 2023. Industry observers say the expansion underlines Apple’s long-term confidence in the India market, where premium device adoption continues to climb despite competitive pricing pressures.

With its second Mumbai store, Apple aims to enhance accessibility while reinforcing its brand presence in one of the country’s most influential technology and lifestyle hubs.

National

PM Modi to Inaugurate New PMO Building on Delhi’s 95th Anniversary as National Capital


New Delhi, February 13, 2026: On a day of historical significance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Seva Teerth, the new building of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), marking a major milestone in India’s administrative infrastructure. The inauguration coincides with the 95th anniversary of New Delhi being formally inaugurated as the nation’s capital.

The Seva Teerth building, designed with modern architectural aesthetics and cutting-edge technology, is aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of the PMO and providing a sustainable workspace for government officials. Alongside the PMO, two other newly constructed government edifices will also be inaugurated, representing India’s commitment to modern governance and development.

Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the inauguration highlights the importance of this date in India’s history and underscores the government’s focus on combining heritage with modernity. Officials have noted that the new facilities will not only streamline administrative functions but also reflect India’s growing stature on the global stage.

The inauguration ceremony is expected to feature key dignitaries, policymakers, and media representatives, offering a glimpse into India’s vision for a modern, efficient, and citizen-focused governance model.