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Security Breach At Dassault Facility After India Approves 114 Make-In-India Rafales

Soon after India announced plans to manufacture the Rafale fighter jet domestically, a major security breach was reported at the aircraft’s production plant in France. An employee was found working with a camera attached to his glasses, an unauthorised act. Preparations are underway to initiate a national security case against the accused. The Rafale, a 4.5-generation fighter jet, ranks among the world’s most advanced combat aircraft. Designed as an omni-role platform, it is capable of launching nuclear weapons. Its (ISA) radar, missile systems and other avionics are regarded as top-tier. The integration of missiles and weapon systems is a critical component in any fighter aircraft programme. Dassault, the manufacturer of the Rafale, treated the espionage episode as highly sensitive and handed the employee over to French police. Make-In-India Approval For 114 Rafales The breach comes at a time when India’s Defence Ministry has cleared the production of 114 Rafale jets under the Make in India initiative. Apart from India and France, the UAE and Egypt operate the Rafale, while Indonesia recently signed a significant deal with France to procure the aircraft. French President Emmanuel Macron is currently visiting India. Ahead of his visit, the Defence Ministry approved the manufacturing of the Make-in-India Rafale fighter jets within the country. Under the proposal, India will acquire 18 Rafale aircraft directly from Dassault Aviation, with the remaining 96 to be produced in India. Some of these will be twin-seater variants intended for pilot training. ‘Cooperation Is Limitless’: Rajnath Singh Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said India-France cooperation is limitless and described the partnership as mutually beneficial with no bounds. He also noted that a significant milestone in bilateral ties was achieved when Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron virtually inaugurated the final assembly line of the H125 helicopters.

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8 months ago

Worm Moon 2026: Date, time and where to watch March’s ‘Blood Moon' eclipse

Times of India

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8 months ago

This Rs 2 Lakh Robo Dog Triggered A Row At Delhi’s AI Summit: Here’s What It Really Is

Galgotias University landed in controversy during an AI Summit in Delhi after being asked to vacate its stall over a robotic dog it showcased as an “in-house innovation.” Officials and experts present at the event identified the robot, named ‘Orion’ by the university, as the Unitree Go2, a commercially available Chinese robot already sold worldwide. Government sources said the issue was not about using foreign technology, but about allegedly presenting a market-ready product as original research, raising concerns over transparency at major technology exhibitions. Unitree Go2 Robot Dog Price In India After the incident went viral, searches for the Unitree Go2 robot dog price in India increased sharply. The robot dog is a commercially available quadruped developed by Unitree Robotics and has been on sale since 2023. In India, the Unitree Go2 is typically priced between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 3 lakh, depending on the variant and seller. Globally, the base Go2 Air model starts at around $1,600 (roughly Rs 1.4–1.5 lakh), while the Go2 Pro costs about $2,800 (around Rs 2.3–2.5 lakh). Additional shipping charges can range from $399 to $1,000.  In India, the robot is sold through specialised robotics and drone distributors. Compared to industrial robot dogs that cost nearly $100,000, the Go2 is positioned as a relatively affordable option for universities, research labs, and developers. Why The Unitree Go2 Robot Dog Was Made And Its Specifications Unitree Robotics designed the Go2 as a second-generation consumer-grade robotic dog, following its earlier Go1 model. The goal was to create a smarter, lighter, and more affordable quadruped robot for education, research, and advanced consumer use.  It is not meant to be a defence or industrial machine, but a platform for learning robotics, AI navigation, and motion control. The Unitree Go2 weighs about 16 kg and is built using aluminium alloy and engineering plastic. It can reach speeds of up to 3.7 m/s and runs on an 8-core high-performance CPU.  The robot uses 3D LiDAR for mapping and obstacle detection, along with a camera for visual input. It can walk, climb stairs, jump, and move smoothly across indoor and outdoor surfaces. A removable 8,000 mAh battery provides around one to two hours of runtime per charge.

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8 months ago

“He was my security guard”: Clavicular fuels controversy after Brianna Chickenfry questions his real age and past security job

Clavicular has come under scrutiny after Brianna Chickenfry questioned his age, claiming he worked as a bar security guard three years ago despite reportedly being only 20 now. The timeline sparked speculation online about whether he misrepresented his age or used a fake ID. The viral debate has raised broader questions about hiring rules and verification practices.

Times of India

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8 months ago

Macron Promises Easier Visas For Indians As France Aims For 30,000 Students By 2030

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday said France intends to significantly increase the number of Indian students enrolling in its institutions, setting a target of 30,000 by 2030 following discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking in Delhi, Macron underlined the importance of deepening academic exchanges between the two countries. “...It's very important for us to welcome more Indian students and to have more French students coming here. We speak about 10,000 per year, more or less, depending on the season. We decided with Prime Minister Modi to have 30,000 by 2030. It's largely feasible,” he said. Visa Reforms And Administrative Easing The French President acknowledged that procedural reforms would be required on France’s part to meet the target. “On the French side, we have to simplify, and we will simplify, our sourcing and as well as the visa facility. To have a visa which meets the expectations of the students and is appropriate, for instance, if you have a PhD, I don't know how many years it took for you, three years, so many. So if I give you a visa for one year, I'm little bit crazy...” #WATCH | Delhi: French President Emmanuel Macron says, "...It's very important for us to welcome more Indian students and to have more French students coming here. We speak about 10,000 per year, more or less, depending on the season. We decided with Prime Minister Modi to have… https://t.co/pj8bOckFdM pic.twitter.com/RPNLq4a7co — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2026 He added that France would “clearly streamline this approach in order to have something which meets the expectations and is much more practical for the students and the schools.” Strengthening Institutional Linkages Macron also stressed the need for stronger institutional partnerships to improve outreach and recruitment. “We will establish better connections in order to have a better sourcing. In India, 10-15 years ago, it was not the number one source of students. Let's be honest. So I want our universities and high schools to do much more, but we will do as well much more in terms of administrative facilities...” The remarks signal a renewed effort by France to expand educational collaboration with India through increased intake targets and streamlined administrative processes.

ABP Live

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8 months ago

Can humans cause earthquakes and can they ever be prevented

Times of India

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8 months ago

Google’s AI Search Is Accidentally Helping Scammers: Here’s What’s Going Wrong

Google search results are changing fast. Instead of the familiar blue links, many users now see AI Overviews at the top, short summaries generated by artificial intelligence. These answers are designed to sound clear and confident, but that confidence can be misleading. Over the past few weeks, reports have surfaced showing that some AI Overviews are displaying scam phone numbers.  People searching for customer support end up calling fake numbers, unknowingly connecting with fraudsters. The issue highlights a growing concern: when AI presents information as fact, even small errors can lead to real-world harm. Google AI Overview Scams Explained: What’s Going Wrong Reports from The Washington Post and tech publication Digital Trends show that scam phone numbers have appeared inside Google’s AI-generated summaries. These cases have also been discussed widely on Reddit and Facebook, prompting warnings from banks and credit unions to their customers. The scam usually follows a simple pattern. A user searches for a company’s customer support number. Instead of visiting the company’s official website, they rely on the AI Overview.  The phone number shown looks legitimate, but it actually connects to someone pretending to be a company representative. The caller is then asked for payment details or sensitive personal information. Experts believe scammers are planting fake phone numbers across multiple low-visibility websites. Google’s AI then pulls this data together without fully verifying it. While misinformation online is nothing new, AI Overviews can make the problem worse by presenting unverified information as trustworthy. Google told Wired that it is strengthening spam detection and claims its systems are “highly effective” at blocking scams. Still, the issue continues to surface. How To Stay Safe From AI Search Scams On Google The safest approach is simple: don’t treat AI Overviews as the final truth, especially for phone numbers, addresses, or financial details. AI systems can mix accurate data with outdated or false information. If you need customer support, search for the company and visit its official website directly. It takes a bit more time, but it greatly reduces risk. You can also copy the phone number and run a second search to see if it appears on trusted sources. Google itself advises users to double-check numbers. Until stronger safeguards are in place, caution remains essential. AI can make searching easier, but when accuracy really matters, traditional search habits are still the safer choice.

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8 months ago

Saudi Arabia Founding Day 2026: Date, history, significance and celebration of 300 years of statehood

Saudi Arabia commemorates Founding Day on February 22, honouring the 1727 establishment of the first Saudi state by Muhammad bin Saud. This paid public holiday celebrates deep historical roots, cultural heritage and national pride, distinct from National Day's focus on modern unification. Celebrations foster unity and connect citizens to their enduring legacy.

Times of India

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8 months ago

Sahibzada Farhan joins elite list, becomes only second Pakistan batter to ...

Sahibzada Farhan made history by scoring a century in the T20 World Cup. He is the second Pakistani batter to achieve this milestone. Farhan's century helped Pakistan post a strong total against Namibia. This performance was crucial for Pakistan's hopes of advancing in the tournament. The team made changes to its lineup for this important match.

Times of India

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8 months ago

Meta’s Alexandr Wang Calls India ‘A Very Positive Case Study’ For AI Innovation

New Delhi [India], February 18 (ANI): Highlighting India's emergence as a global powerhouse in artificial intelligence, Alexandr Wang, Chief AI Officer of Meta, on Wednesday described the country as a "very positive case study" driven by its vast talent pool and a burgeoning startup ecosystem. Speaking at the 'Governing in the Age of AI: Sovereignty, Impact and Strategy' event in the national capital, Wang shared insights from his interactions with local entrepreneurs, noting that India is currently outperforming traditional tech hubs in specific AI sectors. "I think India is a very positive case study, in large part due to the talent pool. I was at a dinner with a number of Indian founders and venture capitalists last night, and the statistic was that there are more consumer AI startups in India than in the United States," Wang said. The Meta executive further emphasised the rapid development of the Indian tech landscape, pointing to the high concentration of innovation within the country's borders. "There really are some of these shining examples of incredible development of these ecosystems," he added. These observations were made during a fireside chat with former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, held on the sidelines of the ongoing India AI Impact Summit 2026. The dialogue between the tech leader and the former statesman underscored the strategic importance of India's digital trajectory within the broader global context. The summit, which is scheduled to continue until February 20, has brought together government policymakers, industry AI experts, academicians, and civil society representatives from across the world to advance global discussions on the technology. As the first global AI summit hosted in the Global South, the event aims to reflect on the transformative potential of AI, aligning with India's national vision of "Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya" (welfare for all, happiness for all) and the global principle of AI for Humanity. The summit features participation from more than 110 countries and 30 international organizations, including around 20 heads of state or government and about 45 ministers. It forms part of an evolving international process focused on strengthening global cooperation on the governance, safety, and societal impact of AI. Guided by the three foundational Sutras--People, Planet, and Progress--the India AI Impact Summit 2026 promotes human-centric AI that safeguards rights and ensures equitable benefits across societies, environmentally sustainable advancement of AI, and inclusive economic and technological progress.  (This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

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8 months ago

ABP Live Doc Talk | 6 Common Cervical Cancer Myths Every Woman Must Know

As doctors, one of the most concerning aspects of cervical cancer is not just the disease itself, but the myths and misinformation that prevent women from seeking timely screening and care. Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that is largely preventable and highly treatable when detected early. Yet, misconceptions continue to put women at unnecessary risk. ALSO READ: ABP Live Doc Talk: Are Your 'Healthy' Snack Choices Truly Good For You? Here's What Expert Says Myth 1: Cervical Cancer Only Affects Older Women (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Many believe cervical cancer is a disease of older age. In reality, it commonly affects women between the ages of 30 and 50. Younger women are also at risk, especially if they have been exposed to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer. Early screening is essential regardless of age once a woman becomes sexually active. Myth 2: If There Are No Symptoms, There Is No Cancer Cervical cancer often does not show symptoms in its early stages. This is precisely why regular screening through Pap smears and HPV tests is crucial. Symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or discomfort during intercourse usually appear only when the disease has progressed. Waiting for symptoms can lead to delayed diagnosis and limited treatment options. Myth 3: HPV Infection Means Cancer Is Inevitable HPV infection is common, and in most cases, the body clears the virus naturally. Only persistent infections with high-risk HPV strains may lead to cervical cancer over time. Regular screening helps identify precancerous changes early, long before cancer develops. An HPV diagnosis should be seen as a call for monitoring not panic. Myth 4: Vaccination Is Unnecessary For Adults (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) The HPV vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to the virus, but it can still offer protection to adults who have not been exposed to all HPV strains. Vaccination, along with screening, significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer and should be discussed with a doctor based on individual health history. Myth 5: Cervical Cancer Screening Is Painful Or Unsafe Fear and discomfort are common reasons women avoid screening. In reality, Pap smears and HPV tests are quick, safe procedures that cause minimal discomfort. The benefits of early detection far outweigh the temporary unease during the test. Myth 6: Only Wwomen With Multiple Partners Are At Risk Cervical cancer does not discriminate based on lifestyle choices. Even women with a single lifetime partner can contract HPV. This myth creates stigma and prevents many women from seeking preventive care. The Doctor’s Advice Cervical cancer is largely preventable through awareness, vaccination, and routine screening. As doctors, we urge women to prioritise their reproductive health, seek regular check-ups, and have open conversations with healthcare providers. Dispelling myths can save lives - and early action can make all the difference. Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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8 months ago

Beauty Filter Fails On Livestream, Influencer Reportedly Loses 1.4 Lakh Followers In Minutes

An influencer’s follower count reportedly dropped sharply after a beauty filter failed during a live-stream, briefly showing her real face. A short clip from the stream went viral across social media, sparking debate around filters, online beauty standards, and authenticity. While some users criticised the influencer, others defended her and said the unfiltered look felt more real.  The claims around follower loss are based on social media posts and have not been independently verified. The incident has once again highlighted how appearance-driven livestream culture has become. Beauty Filter Glitch During Livestream Sparks Viral Backlash The viral clip, around four seconds long, shows a Chinese live-streamer broadcasting from what appears to be her bedroom, with soft lighting and a floral headboard behind her. She has long black hair, wears a purple strapless top, and gold jewellery. A Chinese female streamer reportedly lost 140,000 followers after the beauty filter she was using suddenly malfunctioned during a live stream and revealed her real face 😶 pic.twitter.com/AvlC8fC2JG — Clown World ™ 🤡 (@ClownWorld) February 16, 2026 Mid-stream, the beauty filter briefly malfunctions. Her face appears with natural skin texture, a warmer skin tone, and regular facial proportions. Seconds later, the filter snaps back on, giving her a pale, smooth, doll-like look with bigger eyes and a sharper jawline. Throughout the glitch, the influencer stays calm. She adjusts her hair, smiles slightly when the filter returns, and continues the stream as usual. The video spread quickly on X and Instagram. One widely shared post claims she lost around 1.4 lakh followers immediately after the filter failure. This claim remains unverified and is based only on user-generated content. Chinese Livestream Influencer Faces Scrutiny Over Filters And Followers Livestreaming is a major industry in China, especially on platforms like Douyin, often described as China’s version of TikTok. Streamers regularly go live for hours, chatting with viewers, singing, dancing, or selling products. Income mainly comes from virtual gifts sent by fans, which are purchased using real money. Because of this, appearance plays a key role in attracting viewers and tips. Many influencers rely on strong beauty filters that smooth skin, enlarge eyes, and reshape faces to fit popular beauty standards. The incident reminded many users of the 2019 case of “Your Highness Qiao Biluo,” whose filter failure revealed her real age during a live session. According to the BBC, she lost subscribers instantly but later gained fame due to the controversy. In the current case, the streamer’s identity remains unknown. Online reactions are divided. Some users call the filters misleading, while others say her natural look was more relatable and appealing.

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8 months ago

‘Algorithms Don’t Care’: Cab Rider’s Dating App Success Shocks Gurgaon CEO

A Gurugram-based chief executive has set off a social media debate after recounting how he discovered that his cab driver was actively using a dating app and had matched with several highly educated women. Jasveer Singh, co-founder and CEO of Knot Dating, shared the episode in a post that quickly gained traction online. Singh wrote that during the ride he noticed the driver scrolling through Hinge and, out of what he described as “pure founder curiosity”, asked if he could take a look at the profiles. The driver agreed. As I got into the car, I noticed at a glance that my driver was on Hinge. I asked if he was using a dating app. He smiled and said - Yes, sir. I hesitated, then asked if I could see the profiles. Pure founder curiosity.He had 23 Hinge matches. Several women were well educated… pic.twitter.com/T1STS70pCs — Jasveer Singh (@jasveer10) February 18, 2026 According to Singh, the driver had 23 matches. He added that a number of the women appeared to be “well educated and working in reputable companies with strong careers.” ‘Dating Apps Have Collapsed Social Hierarchy’ Reflecting on the experience, Singh argued that dating platforms have “collapsed social hierarchy.” “When access changes, markets break,” he wrote. Social Media Divided The post drew mixed responses, with users debating whether dating apps genuinely erode class distinctions. “That’s because people are there to have fun, not for serious lifelong commitment and settlement. Hence when harmless fun comes, social hierarchy moves out of the question and pure biological attraction remains,” one user wrote. Another expressed astonishment at the driver’s apparent success, commenting, “‘Driver’ having an ‘iPhone’, using Hinge with more than ‘23 matches’! Bro is on a whole different level.” Some argued that intent plays a decisive role in partner preferences. “People don’t look for rich as much as they look for hot when they are looking for casual hookups. For marriage, they look for rich more than hot. Different markets,” a comment read. Others suggested technology itself acts as an equaliser. “Algorithms don’t care about background,” one user wrote, while another added that “dating is not an elite privilege anyway and internet is not restricted to social media.” One user, however, questioned the legitimacy of the matches. “Driver matches with women with strong careers. Something not right. Would love to see what info he had put in his profile," the comment read.

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8 months ago

ABP Live Budget Traveller | 5 Epic Road Trips From Delhi To Take Before You Turn 30

Your twenties are not just about building careers and chasing deadlines. They are about collecting stories. And what better way to gather them than with the windows rolled down, a playlist on loop, and the highway stretching ahead? If you live in Delhi, you are lucky. Within 7–9 hours, you can swap traffic horns for temple bells, smog for pine forests, and office stress for mountain sunsets. These five road trips are not just destinations, they are experiences every Delhiite should tick off before turning 30. ALSO READ: ABP Live Budget Traveller | 10 Cheap Travel Hacks Every Traveller Must Know 1. Kanatal (Image Source: Twitter/@VCUKofficial) Kanatal is for those who crave silence without sacrificing adventure. Tucked in Uttarakhand, this hill retreat replaces chaos with apple orchards, forest trails and panoramic Himalayan views. The Kodia Jungle Trek offers a peaceful 6-km stretch through dense greenery, perfect for first-time trekkers and birdwatchers. You can also combine your trip with Haridwar and Rishikesh for a spiritual pause by the Ganga. Visit the Tehri Dam viewpoint for a dramatic sunset without paying a single rupee in entry fees. Eco Park and Chamba Hilltop deliver 360-degree views that feel cinematic. Approximate Distance: 315 km Estimated Time: 7-8 hours Route: Delhi - Modinagar - Muzaffarnagar - Roorkee - Haridwar - Rishikesh - Kanatal Budget Road-Trip Hack: Skip private taxis. Shared jeeps cost as little as ₹50 per person. Homestays under ₹1,200 per night offer mountain views and home-cooked meals. 2. Mukteshwar (Image Source: Twitter/@ZostelHostel) Mukteshwar blends spirituality with adventure in the most understated way. The 350-year-old Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple sits calmly against Himalayan backdrops, offering serenity without crowds. Just a short drive away, Chauli Ki Jali provides dramatic cliff views, especially magical at sunrise. If you prefer offbeat spots, Bhalu Gaad Waterfall offers a quiet forest escape. Sitla Village gives you a glimpse into rural Kumaoni life with terraced farms and warm tea from locals. Distance: 350-380 km Time: 8-9 hours Route: Delhi - Hapur - Moradabad - Rampur - Haldwani - Kathgodam - Bhowali - Mukteshwar Budget Road-Trip Hack: Plan your journey to avoid peak traffic hours, especially near Haldwani and Kathgodam, to save on fuel and reduce wear on brakes. Use a fuel-efficient vehicle like a sedan or compact SUV for hilly terrains instead of a large SUV. 3. Fagu (Image Source: Pinterest/umangkaith) Fagu is Shimla’s quieter cousin. Its hilltop views stretch across valleys and dense forests, especially mesmerising during sunrise and sunset. The Banthia Devta Temple and Tara Devi Temple showcases local Himachali architecture, providing a calm, cultural stop. Trek the Fagu Valley or trail to Cheog village for a touch of rural charm. Autumn brings the apple harvest, perfect for strolling through fragrant orchards. Distance: 360 km Time: 7-9 hours Route: Delhi - Panipat - Ambala - Chandigarh - Shimla - Fagu Budget Road-Trip Hack: Carry snacks and water from Delhi to reduce roadside purchases along NH44 and NH5. A good pit stop at Chandigarh or Solan can also save money on overpriced hill-station snacks. 4. Pushkar (Image Source: Twitter/@Vivo_India) Pushkar combines spirituality and vibrant culture. Walk along Pushkar Lake, climb to Savitri Temple for a glowing sunset, and soak in street markets brimming with handicrafts. Budget travellers can stay in dharamshalas or guesthouses which cost about ₹400–₹700/night, enjoy street food ranging from ₹300–₹500/day, and cover attractions on foot. Mid-range and luxury options cater to those who want comfort without compromise. Distance: 415 km Time: 7–8 hours Route: Delhi - Neemrana - Jaipur - Ajmer - Pushkar Budget Road-Trip Hack: Avoid guided tours, most major attractions, including the Camel Fair grounds and temples, are free. 5. Chail (Image Source: Twitter/@GoHimachal_) Chail’s quiet charm rivals Shimla but at a fraction of the cost. Chail Palace tells tales of Patiala royalty, while Kali Ka Tibba rewards trekkers with panoramic Shivalik views. The world’s highest cricket ground, surrounded by deodar trees, adds a unique photo opportunity. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary (₹50 entry) is ideal for spotting deer and birds, while Lover’s Hill provides the perfect sunset perch. Sadhupul Lake is an easy picnic spot. Distance: 337 km Time: 6–7 hours Route: Delhi - Panipat - Ambala - Chandigarh - Himalayan Expressway - Kandaghat - Chail Budget Road-Trip Hack: Visit in off-season (Nov–Feb) to save 30–40% on stays. Local dhabas serve meals like rajma chawal for as little as ₹50.

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8 months ago

Japan PM Sanae Takaichi Reappointed After Landslide Win, Eyes Hard-Right Policy Shift

Japan’s Parliament on Wednesday formally reappointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to form her second Cabinet, days after her decisive election victory handed her party sweeping control of the lower house. The move, widely regarded as procedural, nevertheless marks the start of what could be a sharper turn in Japan’s political direction. All members of her previous Cabinet are expected to retain their posts, underscoring continuity as Takaichi prepares to capitalise on the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s commanding position. Supermajority Strengthens Her Hand With a two-thirds majority in the 465-seat lower house, the more powerful of Japan’s two parliamentary chambers, Takaichi now commands significant legislative muscle. The supermajority enables her party to dominate key committee roles and override bills rejected by the upper house, where the LDP-led coalition does not hold a majority. The victory gives Takaichi a rare political opening. She has pledged to expand Japan’s military capability, increase arms sales, tighten immigration rules and reinforce conservative social policies. Among her priorities are maintaining male-only imperial succession and preserving the long-criticised tradition that pressures married women to give up their surnames. Constitution Reform on Hold? Takaichi has long expressed a desire to revise Japan’s postwar pacifist Constitution, drafted by the United States after World War II. However, that ambition may be delayed. She faces mounting pressure to confront more immediate challenges, including rising consumer prices, stagnant wages, demographic decline and concerns over regional security. Her first order of business is expected to be economic relief. A delayed budget bill must now be passed to fund measures aimed at easing the burden on households. Central to her proposal is a two-year sales tax cut on food products, designed to cushion families against escalating living costs. Economic Ties With the United States Beyond domestic concerns, Takaichi is also navigating high-stakes diplomacy. She is reportedly preparing for a summit next month with U.S. President Donald Trump, who is scheduled to visit Beijing in April. Trump publicly endorsed Takaichi ahead of Japan’s election. Hours before her reappointment, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced that Japan would provide capital for three projects under a previously pledged $550 billion investment package. Japan has committed to the first tranche worth $36 billion. The projects include a natural gas plant in Ohio, a crude oil export facility along the U.S. Gulf Coast and a synthetic diamond manufacturing site.

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8 months ago