Page 239 – THE LOCAL REPORT ARTICLES

What is defense airspace? El Paso airspace closed for 10 days, flights grounded

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February 11, 2026

What is defense airspace? El Paso airspace closed for 10 days, flights grounded

The airspace over El Paso, Texas, has been closed for ten days for what the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) called “extraordinary safety reasons.” The closures include El Paso International Airport, where all flights have been grounded.

El Paso International Airport has been closed for 10 days. (no splash)

The restriction applies to all flights to and from El Paso, including commercial, cargo and general aviation operations.

The FAA’s decision also affects large swaths of the South New Mexico West of Santa Teresa.

According to the FAA, the Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) are in effect from 11:30 pm (MST) on February 10 to 11:30 pm (MST) on February 20.

El Paso International Airport said in a statement to KFOX14: “The FAA has issued a temporary flight restriction at short notice suspending all flights to and from El Paso and the neighboring community of Santa Teresa, New Mexico. The restriction prohibits all aircraft operations (including commercial, cargo and general aviation) from 11:30 p.m. (MST) on February 10 through February 20 Effective 11:30 p.m. (MST) today. Airport staff have contacted the FAA and we are awaiting additional guidance while commercial airlines operating in El Paso are being notified of this restriction, which appears to be safety related.”

Also read: Flightradar24 shows hundreds of private jets taking off from Bay Area in 2 hours after Super Bowl

What is defense airspace?

The FAA has designated the area as “defense airspace,” a classification used for areas of national security interest where flight operations may be restricted, controlled, or prohibited to protect critical infrastructure, personnel, or U.S. territory.

According to the FAA notice cited by El Paso Matters, “The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) classifies the airspace defined in this notice as ‘National Defense Airspace.’ Pilots who do not comply with the following procedures may be stopped, detained, and interviewed by law enforcement/security personnel.”

“The U.S. government may use lethal force against airborne ACFTs if it is determined that they pose an imminent security threat.”

Who is Hind Owais? Emirati human rights diplomat named in 469 emails to Jeffrey Epstein World News

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February 11, 2026

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Who is Hind Owais? Emirati human rights diplomat named in 469 emails to Jeffrey Epstein World News

Who is Hind Owais? Emirati human rights diplomat named in 469 Jeffrey Epstein emails

Emirati human rights official Hind Al-Owais named in hundreds of emails with Jeffrey Epstein / Photo: @x.com

Newly released records from the U.S. Department of Justice put Emirati diplomat Hind Al-Owais in the spotlight after her name appeared in 469 letters related to Jeffrey Epstein. The emails, which date back to 2011 and 2012, were released as part of a wider release of documents related to the late financier’s case.Owais, who serves as director of the UAE’s Permanent Human Rights Commission, has not been accused of any wrongdoing. The revelation sparked international attention and raised questions about her past communications and diplomatic roles.

Hind Al-Owais: Emirati diplomat and advocate

Hind Al-Owais is a prominent Emirati diplomat widely known for his work on human rights and women’s empowerment. She has held a number of high-profile positions, including Director of the UAE Permanent Commission for Human Rights (PCHR), and represented the United Arab Emirates at United Nations.Over the decades, Owaisi’s diplomatic profile has grown and he has gained recognition in international circles. Her public speeches often focus on gender equality and global human development, promoting the UAE’s stance on women’s participation and rights.She is also described as one of the first Emirati women to serve as a senior adviser at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, where she worked to integrate gender perspectives into the global policy agenda.

Emails with Jeffrey Epstein

In early 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice released a series of previously sealed documents known as the “Epstein Files” under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The documents include millions of pages of emails, calendars and other records related to late sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein.In the newly disclosed records, Hind Al-Owais’ name appears in approximately 469 email exchanges with Jeffrey Epstein between 2011 and 2012.These messages range from logistical coordination and scheduling meetings to references about arranging social events. In a January 2012 email, Al-Owais wrote to Epstein: “Preparing one girl is difficult enough; preparing two girls, you can certainly call it a challenge.”In other emails, she appeared to discuss introducing her sister to Epstein, at one point writing: “I enjoyed meeting you and introducing you to my sister, who is even prettier than me.”The exchanges drew global attention because Epstein’s crimes included convictions involving minors and federal sex trafficking charges before his death.

No criminal charges

It is important to stress that the documents released do not accuse Owaisi of criminal wrongdoing. U.S. authorities have not charged her based on those email records, and there is no verified evidence that Epstein influenced her diplomatic career or that she participated in his illegal activities.Officials familiar with the matter noted that the documents contained “raw and uncorroborated” material and that naming names in the documents did not amount to criminal accusations. Civil liberties groups also warn that caution is needed when interpreting large, unfiltered data dumps.Still, Owaisi’s advocacy for women’s rights in the emails sparked intense debate and speculation online. Some social media posts claimed her messages referred to her younger sister, with some accounts even referring to a “13-year-old sister,” although these age details have not been independently confirmed by mainstream reports.There has been no official public statement on the matter from Owais or the UAE authorities and she remains in her current role.

What happens next?

Al-Owais has not yet been publicly charged or formally investigated in connection with the emails. Journalists, researchers and human rights groups around the world continue to analyze the broader Epstein dossier. Some observers warn that raw information released by the government could fuel misleading interpretations, while others argue that public records help the public understand the reach of powerful networks.As calls for transparency grow, the situation remains fluid and more documents or official statements may emerge in the coming months.

‘We will not make India equal to Pakistan’: Rahul Gandhi explains how Indian bloc will negotiate with Trump India News

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February 11, 2026

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‘We will not make India equal to Pakistan’: Rahul Gandhi explains how Indian bloc will negotiate with Trump India News

Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha

New Delhi: Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi India on Wednesday launched a blistering attack on the recently signed India-US trade deal, saying it was poorly negotiated and harmed national interests.While delivering a speech in the People’s House, congress The leader laid out what he described as the approach the Indian bloc would take in dealing with US President Donald Trump.Rahul said India failed to leverage its most valuable asset – data – in negotiations with Washington.Rahul insisted that the Indian group would take a firmer stance against the Trump administration.“I’ll tell you what we’re going to say. The first thing we’re going to say is President Trump, the most important thing in this equation is India data. Do you want to protect your dollars? We are your friends. We appreciate you. We want to help you protect your dollars. But remember, if you want to protect your dollar, the greatest asset that can protect your dollar is in the hands of the people of India,” he said.“We will tell President Trump that if you want access to India’s data, you have to talk to us as equals. We will not talk to Pakistan as equals. We will tell Trump: our energy security is our energy security and we will protect it. The Indian group government will tell Trump ‘we will protect our farmers,'” Rahul asserted.Rahul also accused the Modi government of abandoning key digital and economic safeguards in the deal.“If President Trump decides that the Pakistani army chief wants to have breakfast with him, then we will have something to say about that. What happens now? You have a trade deal… that will transform India in the 21st century, that will make us a superpower in the 21st century, and that’s what the Modi government is doing with our data. We relinquish control of digital trade rules. Second, data localization is not required. Third, data flowing to the United States is free. Fourth, the limitations of digital tax. Fifth, there is no need to disclose any source code. The finance minister smiled. She loves to smile. Anyone who wants it, whether it’s a big tax company, can take advantage of the 20-year tax holiday. That’s what you do with data…” Rahul said.The Congress leader also believes that the deal will significantly increase India’s dependence on US imports but provide little in return.“For the first time in history our farmers are facing a storm; you are opening your doors to suppress poor farmers, no Prime Minister has ever done this. You have betrayed India; are you not ashamed to betray India?” he said.Gandhi claimed that the government had “betrayed Bharat Mata” through the India-US interim trade deal, which was a “mass surrender”.“You have betrayed India. Aren’t you ashamed of betraying India? You have betrayed our mother, Bharat Mata,” he said of the trade deal.

Carlos Palazuelos: Food companies speak out, 5 things you need to know about ‘DoorDash driver’ detained in Nancy Guthrie case

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February 11, 2026

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Carlos Palazuelos: Food companies speak out, 5 things you need to know about ‘DoorDash driver’ detained in Nancy Guthrie case

The man was detained by the police for questioning on suspicion of involvement in the case Nancy Guthrie’s The disappearance was identified by a family member as Carlos Palazzolos. He has not yet been named a suspect, NewsNation reported.

On February 10, 2026, Nancy Guthrie, the mother of 84-year-old American journalist and TV host Savannah Guthrie, disappeared in Rio Rico, Arizona, USA. The Santa Cruz County Sheriff blocked a street where someone was detained for questioning. REUTERS/Rebecca Noble (REUTERS)

Learn more | Where is Anne Guthrie? Hours after the video of the subject was released, police conducted a search warrant in the Tucson neighborhood where Nancy’s daughter lives.

ABC 15 reporter Ford Hatchett said Carlos was released shortly after being detained say on X. “He only wanted to be identified as Carlos. He said he was held at the scene of the initial traffic stop for several hours. A full interview is forthcoming,” Hatchett wrote.

Carlos is identified on social media as a “DoorDash driver.” The food ordering and delivery platform has now broken its silence amid the investigation.

The police executed a search warrant At Carlos’s house. A source told the outlet that Nancy is still missing.

Five things you need to know about Carlos Palazulos

Here are five things to know after police detained Carlos Palazzolos:

Veteran journalist and New York Post columnist Paul Sperry X posts Carlos was “contracted to deliver packages “for UPS” and drive a white van.”
According to NewsNation, Carlos’ mother-in-law, Josefina Maddox, claimed that Carlos was at her home in Rio Rico, Arizona, during the time Nancy disappeared.
Josefina insisted Carlos was innocent, adding that he was a “good guy” with no criminal record or history of violence. she said In another interview, they didn’t know Nancy “at all.”
It’s unclear whether Carlos is the man in the surveillance photos and videos released by the FBI. Josefina reportedly saw the clips and images but denied the man bore any resemblance to Carlos.
Carlos’ nationality remains unknown, but he has been identified as a “DoorDash driver” in various X posts, including An article from the Survivor Podcast. NewsNation’s Brian Entin also reported that Carlos was detained during the DoorDash delivery, without naming him.

DoorDash speaks

DoorDash broke its silence after Carlos was taken into custody, saying in an X post that they had contacted authorities after seeing reports.

DoorDash wrote: “We are urgently investigating reports that a delivery driver has been detained in connection with the Nancy Guthrie case. We have contacted law enforcement and are prepared to do whatever we can to support their critical investigation. Like tens of millions of people around the world, our hearts are with the Guthrie family during this heartbreaking time.”

Good news for OFWs in UAE: Ministry of Migrant Workers launches new digital reforms to provide faster services

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February 11, 2026

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Good news for OFWs in UAE: Ministry of Migrant Workers launches new digital reforms to provide faster services

DMW digital transformation: providing faster services to OFWs in the UAE and globally

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has launched a series of comprehensive digital reforms aimed at expediting services to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), including those in key destinations such as the United Arab Emirates, as part of a broader effort to modernize support, reduce bureaucratic delays and protect migrants’ rights. The move, announced during the DMW 2026 Central Office-Regional Office Consultation, reflects the Government’s commitment to delivering efficient, responsive services to the millions of overseas workers who are vital to the nation’s economy and families.

What DMW changes mean

DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac said the reforms would reduce queues, streamline procedures and standardize practices across offices through regional operations manuals to align overseas services with domestic operations. The department also plans to adopt a quality management system (QMS), upgrade facilities to global standards and accelerate digital initiatives such as OFW Pass while reducing the face-to-face requirement for issuance of OFW Information Forms, an important document for overseas workers.In effect, the changes are aimed at reducing foot traffic and bureaucracy, ensuring OFWs no longer spend hours waiting for basic services. This is especially important in a country where many Filipino workers have limited time to process official transactions due to strict work schedules and travel restrictions.

Simplify travel and travel clearance

Part of this reform intersects with efforts to modernize OFW travel documents. The latest development reported in Tourism and Government Digital News revealed that the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), a mandatory exit permit for Filipino workers, is gradually being transformed into a unified OFW travel pass through the eGovPH app, allowing workers to process travel permits digitally without the need to print or visit an office.For OFWs in the UAE and other Gulf countries, this integration is expected to significantly reduce time-consuming bureaucracy, allowing them to complete travel and customs clearance processes from remote locations, including smartphones or computers.

Decentralization and strengthening of law enforcement

The new reforms are not just for convenience; They also extend to increased enforcement of illegal recruitment, a long-standing risk for migrant workers. DMW is transferring key functions such as case adjudication, inspections and coordinating enforcement actions to regional offices, including establishing partnerships with law enforcement and local governments.

No more long queues? Philippines accelerates overseas Filipino worker services through major digital reforms

Such an approach could mean faster action on complaints, improved protections for aspiring OFWs who face exploitation during the recruitment stage, and a more accessible complaints process for overseas workers. Given that many OFWs in the UAE and around the world middle East Working through agencies, faster enforcement can be an important safeguard for labor rights and contract fairness.DMW’s reform initiatives are in line with broader trends in the digital transformation of public services around the world. Governments around the world are accelerating digitization to improve accessibility, reduce delays and reduce paperwork, especially for services involving large mobile populations.In the UAE, for example, federal digital initiatives such as the Zero Government Bureaucracy Initiative have resulted in significant efficiencies, such as slashing labor documentation requirements by up to 95% and accelerating work permit and residency services through an integrated platform under the MoHRE Smart Services Agenda.These systems leverage artificial intelligence and digital integration to shorten procedures and expand 24/7 access to online services. The UAE’s initiatives focus on domestic labor market efficiency, while the Philippines’ DMW reforms aim to make life easier for citizens living and working abroad, especially in countries with advanced digital services ecosystems such as the UAE.

Why this matters to OFWs and families

OFWs are a cornerstone of the Philippine economy, and their remittances contribute significantly to national income and local household support. Streamlined digital services can have a real impact on their lives, reducing time spent on bureaucratic procedures and freeing up more time for work and family commitments, strengthening the safety net by providing faster legal and administrative support when issues arise abroad, improving mobility and travel efficiency through integrated digital travel documents and customs clearance systems, and reducing administrative costs and stress for workers and their families.

Manila speeds up government services, OFWs in UAE to benefit

For OFWs in the UAE, one of the largest Filipino diaspora communities in the world, this digital advancement means more seamless interactions with Philippine government systems even when they are overseas, bringing services in line with global expectations for digital governance.

How will the reform develop?

Officials also discussed budget planning and project management practices through 2026, indicating that digital systems development will continue to be prioritized. The aim is to ensure continued investment in technology, capacity building and infrastructure to support efficient migrant worker services.In addition to current initiatives, there is potential to expand partnerships and services, such as online contract verification systems and unified mobile platforms, which further reduce the need for in-person visits to overseas offices, such as those in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that are already piloting digital verification technology.

Challenges and the way forward

While digital reforms bring convenience, they also require digital literacy and access, especially for older workers or those in areas with limited internet availability. The success of DMW will depend on effective communication, training and support for OFWs to make full use of new digital tools.Additionally, cross-government system integration in host countries such as the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates involves data security and privacy considerations that authorities must address to ensure trust and reliability in new systems. DMW represents a significant advancement for overseas Filipino workers by accelerating services through digital reforms that reduce bureaucratic hurdles and bring services in line with modern digital expectations.By consolidating travel documents, decentralizing key functions and prioritizing technology upgrades, the Philippines aims to provide faster, more convenient and more protected immigration services to OFWs, especially in diaspora-heavy areas such as the Middle East. As these reforms unfold, they could set new standards for how countries support and empower citizens working abroad, combining digital-age efficiency with compassionate governance.

‘Now America will decide from whom we buy oil, not our Prime Minister’: Top quotes from Rahul Gandhi’s Lok Sabha speech | India News

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February 11, 2026

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‘Now America will decide from whom we buy oil, not our Prime Minister’: Top quotes from Rahul Gandhi’s Lok Sabha speech | India News

'Now America will decide from whom we buy oil, not our Prime Minister': Top quotes from Rahul Gandhi's Lok Sabha speech

New Delhi: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi India on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on the government during discussions on the 2026-27 Union Budget, claiming that India’s strategic autonomy was being compromised and key decisions on energy and economic policy were increasingly influenced by the global power equation.In a pointed comment on the Centre’s foreign and trade policies, Rahul Gandhi said “now the United States will decide from whom we buy oil, not our prime minister” and accused the government of weakening India’s negotiating position in an unstable and rapidly changing global order.Key quotes from Rahul Gandhi’s speeches

“When you enter a dangerous world, what is the first thing you have to understand? I want to tell everyone our advantages. The core advantage is our 1.4 billion people. They are talented, energetic and dynamic and can challenge anyone in the world.”
“Talking about artificial intelligence is like talking about internal combustion engines without talking about gasoline. The gasoline of artificial intelligence is data.”
‘Indian data holds key to maintaining US superpower’
“Aren’t you ashamed of selling India?”
“If Americans want to remain a superpower and protect their dollars, the key is India’s data”
“Population is a force, but only if you realize the importance of data”
“If India Group negotiates with President Trump, we will say ‘the most important thing in this equation is India data‘”
“We will tell President Trump that if you want access to Indian data, you must talk to us as equals”

Citing the Economic Survey, Rahul Gandhi said the world is entering an era of increasing geopolitical conflict and instability.“I was looking at the economic survey and found two things, a solid point of view and a profound point of view, which I like. The first is that we live in a world of heightened geopolitical conflict…U.S. dominance is being challenged by China, Russia, and other forces. The second thing is that we live in a world where energy and finance are weaponized. The main thing they are saying here is that we are moving from a stable world to an unstable world.“He added, “The Prime Minister said, shockingly, the National Security Agency said that the era of war is over. In fact, we are entering an era of war. You can see there is war in Ukraine, there is war in Gaza, there is war in the Middle East, there is the threat of war in Iran. We have operations in Sindor. So we are entering an unstable world. The dollar is being challenged. As my friends on the other side understand, the core game is that the dollar is being challenged.” Being challenged, the supremacy of the United States is being challenged. We are moving from a world of superpowers to a new world that we really cannot predict…”Rahul Gandhi believes India’s vast data pool gives it leverage in global negotiations. “People create data. We have the largest data pool on earth. 1.4 billion people means India is generating a lot of data. Everyone talks about AI, but talking about AI is like talking about an internal combustion engine without petrol. The petrol for AI is data… which means if you have AI but no data, you have nothing. What are the two largest data pools on Earth? Data pool in India and data pool in China. “He used martial arts as a metaphor, “In martial arts, the order is grip, pinch, and slap. This kind of grip also exists in politics. However, in politics, grip, pinch, and slap are still hidden.”He further said, “The budget acknowledges that energy and finance are being weaponised, but there is nothing in the budget to investigate this”.Rahul Gandhi called for safeguards, adding, “We need to protect our people, data, food supplies and energy systems”.He also warned of the disruptive effects of artificial intelligence. “I warn governments that artificial intelligence will have many consequences; companies at the forefront of information technology will be in trouble.”The Congress leader reiterated that India is entering a period of high uncertainty. “We are moving from a stable world to an unstable world.”His remarks came amid heated exchanges between Opposition and Treasury MPs during the ongoing budget session.

Valentine’s Day private message at 3:18 a.m. left police saying ‘we don’t know how to respond’

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February 11, 2026

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Valentine’s Day private message at 3:18 a.m. left police saying ‘we don’t know how to respond’

and Valentine’s Day Just around the corner, social media is usually filled with romantic gestures and heart-shaped everything. However, a recent exchange between a curious citizen and a U.S. police department proves that “looking for love” can sometimes lead to the most unexpected places, like the inboxes of law enforcement agencies.

The police department shared screenshots of private messages they received on their social media profiles. (Representative image). (no splash)

The Greensboro Police Department recently shared a hilarious screenshot of a late-night message that left them completely confused. In a tweet that went viral, the police department admitted, “We don’t know how to respond to this,” after a follower sent the department a very specific Valentine’s Day request at 3:18 a.m.

Also read: Complete List of Valentine’s Day Week 2026: From Promise Day to Kiss Day, Here’s the Complete Love Calendar from February 7 to 14

“We are always grateful when people message us and we look forward to responding as soon as possible,” the department further wrote, while they also shared screenshots of the conversations.

Screenshots show the citizen sent a DM to the police department at 3:18 a.m. and received an automated reply.

How was the social media reaction?

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services responded to the tweet by writing: “It’s also 3 a.m….well, diva!” The Greensboro Police Department responded: “We just noticed hahaha. Basically, ‘Are you up?'”

Another suggested, “Ask her for her tag number and neighborhood and send singles to California to find her. They could pull her over and hand her a rose. Of course we need live police.” A third commented: “Awesome. Start with her background check.” A fourth wrote: “This is hilarious and a little creepy.”

Also read: Valentine’s Day 2026: Why do we celebrate love on February 14? Learn about the origin, history and significance of this day

The Greensboro, North Carolina, Police Department is the first police department in the region to receive accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

The Greensboro Police Department has 787 sworn and unsworn employees whose mission is to make Greensboro safer, according to the local government website.

India turns to annual anti-drug campaign to eradicate elephantiasis by 2027 | India News

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February 11, 2026

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India turns to annual anti-drug campaign to eradicate elephantiasis by 2027 | India News

NEW DELHI: In a major push to eliminate lymphatic filariasis, the Center on Monday launched its annual mass drug administration campaign across the country in 12 endemic states, marking a decisive shift in strategy to achieve the elimination target by 2027.Launching the campaign, Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda said the shift from twice-yearly to annual centralized rounds of drugs is aimed at improving compliance, enhancing surveillance and overcoming last-mile gaps that have slowed progress in several districts.Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a mosquito-borne disease that damages the lymphatic system and can lead to irreversible swelling of the limbs, hydrocele, disability and social stigma. The disease remains endemic in 348 districts across 20 states and union territories.Although 143 districts have successfully stopped mass drug administration after completing transmission assessment surveys, nearly half reported infection levels still above the elimination threshold. Data from the Ministry of Health show that more than 620,000 people suffer from lymphedema and more than 120,000 people suffer from hydrocele in endemic areas.This round of annual drug management is being implemented in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, covering 719 blocks in 124 districts. The goal is to reduce microfilariae prevalence to less than one percent, the benchmark needed to interrupt transmission.India has committed to eliminating filariasis as a public health problem by the end of 2027, three years ahead of the global target. Officials said the redesigned annual campaign will allow for uninterrupted monitoring, especially during the monsoon months when drug delivery and follow-up are traditionally affected.Addressing state health ministers and senior officials, Nadda said filariasis is not just a medical condition but a disease that erodes livelihoods and plunges families into long-term financial hardship. He stressed the need for direct observation of drug consumption, enhanced vector control and sustained community engagement to combat public hesitancy.The program also refocused on morbidity management, including hydrocele surgery and care of patients with chronic swelling. Such surgeries are covered under the Ayushman Bharat health insurance plan and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are expected to support early detection and follow-up care.Steady progress over the past decade, including improved drug compliance and expanded regional coverage, has laid the foundation for India to eventually become filariasis-free, officials said.

‘Why only bowlers?’ T20 World Cup action debate breaks out, R Ashwin defends Pakistan’s Usman Tariq | Cricket News

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February 11, 2026

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‘Why only bowlers?’ T20 World Cup action debate breaks out, R Ashwin defends Pakistan’s Usman Tariq | Cricket News

'Why only bowlers?' R Ashwin defends Pakistan's Usman Tariq as T20 World Cup action debate breaks out

Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq (AP Photo)

New Delhi: Pakistan Spinning Mills Usman Tariq After his triumphant performance against the United States in the 2026 T20 World Cup, he was once again at the center of a heated debate over his bowling action, with India’s veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin stepped in to defend the bowler amid mounting criticism online. Push boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Although the ICC cleared Tariq of his conduct twice last year, Tariq’s unique “stop and deliver” behavior sparked a fresh wave of “mockery” accusations on social media.

T20 World Cup | Sahibzada Farhan on India vs Pakistan match: ‘Not one-sided’

“Even football no longer allows players to take a time-out during a penalty run-up. How is this okay? Action – all good. But a time-out? The same goes for passing the ball. This cannot be more serious,” Goswami wrote.Ashwin, however, offered a different perspective, agreeing with the football analogy but arguing that cricket’s rules often impose disproportionate restrictions on bowlers. “Agree football doesn’t allow this! While a batsman can switch or reverse without informing the umpire or bowler, why is the restriction restricted to the bowler only after committing to bat on one side?” Ashwin wrote on social media. “In fact, a bowler is not allowed to change his/her bowling arm without informing the umpire. They should change this rule in the first place.”According to ICC rules, a bowler’s elbow extension must not exceed 15 degrees between the arm reaching horizontal position and the point of delivery – a guideline often cited in criticism of Tariq online. The spinner, who has previously come under scrutiny, insists the bend in his arm is natural.

Who is Vikash Ramkissoon? Guyanese MP’s Hindi speech in parliament goes viral

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February 11, 2026

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Who is Vikash Ramkissoon? Guyanese MP’s Hindi speech in parliament goes viral

Vikash Ramkissoon (Image: Parliament of Guyana)

A debate in the Guyana Parliament took an unexpected turn when MP Vikash Ramkissoon responded in fluent Hindi after an opposition MP questioned his knowledge of the language.The exchange began when an opposition member claimed that Ramkissoon did not understand Hindi. After seeking permission from the Speaker, he said he would respond directly to the remark in Hindi.Ramkissoon addressed the House of Representatives, naming opposition members and issuing an open challenge. He said he was ready to debate on any subject at any venue of his opponent’s choice, including television, and the discussion could be conducted entirely in Hindi without reference to notes or documents.“No matter what you want to do, the main answer is not to read the newspaper.” (They decide the topic and I respond without paper), he said.He spoke calmly but firmly, claiming no excuse for his fluency in Hindi. The moment caught the attention of lawmakers in the room and quickly resonated beyond the chamber.The video went viral on social media and received thousands of views. Many users praised Ramkissoon’s conducting, describing the moment as a powerful example of cultural representation and linguistic diversity in governance.He further accused the opposition of using “coded language” to divide society and claimed that the party’s philosophy advocates equality before God. “It’s a tradition I follow,” he said.A large number of Guyana’s population are descendants of Indian indentured laborers, and although English is the official language, Hindi remains culturally important within the Indo-Guyanese community.The move comes amid re-warming of relations between India and Guyana. In November 2024, Prime Minister Modi visited Guyana. This was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Guyana in more than 50 years and was warmly welcomed by the Indian and Guyana society. Cooperation between the two countries spans energy, healthcare, capacity building and cultural exchanges and forms part of India’s broader engagement with Caribbean countries.

From jeers to mic drops: Vikash Ramkissoon silences Guyana parliamentary critics with fluent Hindi

Who is Vikash Ramkissoon?

Vikash Ramkissoon is a Member of Parliament and Minister of Agriculture for the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. He was appointed to the ministerial portfolio on September 13, 2025.Ramkissoon has a background in finance, law and public services. He holds a Master’s degree in Commerce and Finance and a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Delhi University. He later obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree with distinction from the University of Guyana.Prior to becoming a Minister, he served as Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture during the 12th Parliament of Guyana from 2020 to 2025. During this period, he worked closely with agricultural stakeholders, particularly in the Essequibo-West Demerara region.Prior to entering public service, Ramkissoon established his career in the banking industry and served as Branch Manager of Demerara Bank Limited, overseeing financial operations.As Minister of Agriculture, his responsibilities include modernizing and diversifying Guyana’s agricultural sector and enhancing food security.