Bitcoin experienced a sharp market correction, wiping out $1.7 billion in value, prompting concerns across cryptocurrency and traditional investment sectors. Despite the decline, analysts remain optimistic, forecasting a potential surge to $135,000 in the medium term, citing growing institutional adoption, blockchain innovation, and its role as a hedge against inflation. The correction underscores the inherent volatility of digital assets and the need for strategic risk management.

Raj Kundra, entrepreneur and husband of Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty, has been formally chargesheeted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a ₹150 crore bitcoin-related financial scam. The case involves allegations of illegal investment schemes, money laundering, and fraudulent transactions exploiting cryptocurrency markets. The ED’s move signals intensified regulatory scrutiny on digital asset operations and highlights the risks associated with unregulated investment platforms in India.

The Punjab government has rolled out a comprehensive outreach program aimed at reducing stubble burning and promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices. This initiative seeks to address the severe air pollution challenges caused by post-harvest crop residue burning, while encouraging farmers to adopt green agriculture techniques such as mechanized residue management and crop diversification.

Recent studies have revealed dangerously high levels of lead and uranium in children residing in Punjab and Chandigarh, raising urgent public health concerns. Experts warn that prolonged exposure to these heavy metals can cause developmental delays, neurological disorders, and long-term health complications. Investigations point to environmental contamination from industrial effluents, pesticide usage, and aging water infrastructure as potential sources.

A 71-year-old woman from Punjab has recounted a traumatic experience after being deported from the United States, describing being handcuffed and her feet restrained during the process. The incident has sparked widespread concern about the treatment of elderly deportees and highlighted systemic challenges in international immigration enforcement. Authorities confirmed the deportation was carried out following standard legal procedures, but the emotional and physical strain on the individual has drawn public attention.

In a major law enforcement development, Indian authorities have successfully extradited a terror suspect with links to the Babbar Khalsa organization from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Punjab. The individual, wanted in connection with multiple terror-related cases, is expected to face rigorous legal proceedings under India’s anti-terrorism framework. The extradition underscores India’s growing international cooperation on counterterrorism, highlighting effective diplomatic engagement and intelligence sharing with foreign jurisdictions.

Union Minister B.L. Verma has highlighted growing discontent among Punjab’s farming community, citing a loss of faith in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government due to delayed flood-related compensation. Farmers, reeling from extensive agricultural losses caused by recent floods, are pressing for immediate financial relief to recover and sustain livelihoods. The situation underscores persistent challenges in disaster management, governance accountability, and timely policy execution.

Mithun Manhas, the former Indian cricketer and seasoned domestic campaigner, has been elected the 37th president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). His election marks a pivotal moment in Indian cricket administration, promising a blend of on-field experience and strategic oversight at the helm of the country’s premier cricketing body. With a mandate to strengthen domestic cricket structures, enhance governance transparency, and support the sport’s financial and infrastructural growth, Manhas’s leadership is expected to usher in progressive reforms.

Jindal Steel & Power Limited (JSPL) has commissioned a new 5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) blast furnace at its Angul plant, marking a significant enhancement in production capacity. The state-of-the-art facility is expected to strengthen the company’s position in the domestic and international steel markets, catering to rising demand in construction, infrastructure, and automotive sectors. Analysts view this expansion as a strategic move to optimize operational efficiency, reduce production costs, and leverage economies of scale.

Reliance Jio’s strategic collaboration with global investment giant BlackRock is expected to bring greater stability to financial markets starting March. The partnership, centered on investment inflows and operational synergy, aims to strengthen investor confidence while bolstering Jio’s expansion initiatives across telecom, digital services, and emerging technologies. Analysts anticipate that the alliance will facilitate capital mobilization, support sustainable growth, and improve liquidity dynamics in related sectors.