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US May Ease India Tariffs As Russian Oil Purchases ‘Collapse’: Treasury Secretary

The United States may consider reducing the steep tariffs imposed on Indian imports, with a senior official in the Donald Trump-led administration indicating that India’s reduced purchase of Russian oil has achieved Washington’s policy objectives. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said India’s refinery-level purchases of Russian crude have “collapsed,” referring to the rationale behind the tariff hike imposed last year. Speaking to Politico, Bessent said the administration had imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, which later translated into an effective 50 per cent duty on Indian imports in August 2025. “We put 25% tariffs on India for buying Russian oil. And the Indian purchases, by their refineries, of Russian oil have collapsed. That is a success,” he said. Tariff Relief Talks Gain Momentum While confirming that the tariffs remain in force, Bessent hinted at possible relief. “The tariffs are still on. I would imagine there is a path to take them off,” he added. The remarks point to renewed momentum in India–US trade negotiations, following mixed signals from Washington in recent weeks. Earlier, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had claimed that a potential deal stalled because Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not personally reach out to President Donald Trump, a claim India rejected. Trade Talks, Energy Ties Clarified Positive signals later emerged after the new US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, confirmed that trade discussions between the two countries were continuing. Bessent’s comments have also revived debate over the state of India–Russia energy ties. President Trump had earlier claimed that India had “largely stopped” buying Russian oil, citing progress in bilateral talks. India, however, has consistently denied making any commitment to halt Russian oil imports. In October 2025, New Delhi dismissed Trump’s claim that Prime Minister Modi had assured him of ending the trade, stating that no such conversation took place. The Indian government has not officially confirmed a significant reduction in Russian oil imports, leaving uncertainty over the scale and durability of any shift in its energy sourcing.

From Herzog Documentary To White House Meme: How A Penguin Took Over The Internet

A short clip of a lone penguin walking away from its colony towards distant icy mountains has exploded across social media in 2026, earning the moniker “Nihilist Penguin”. The footage, widely shared and re-captioned with existential humour and symbolic life lessons, has been interpreted online as everything from a metaphor for rebellion to a commentary on loneliness and purpose. Millions have engaged with the clip, turning it into one of the year’s most recognisable memes. Origin Of The Footage The video originates from filmmaker Werner Herzog’s 2007 documentary Encounters at the End of the World. It shows an Adélie penguin straying from its usual coastal route and marching alone towards a distant mountain range around 70 km inland. Adélie penguins typically remain close to the sea, where their breeding grounds and food sources are located. A solitary inland trek of this nature is highly unusual for the species. Why The Clip Resonated Online The clip’s resurgence has been driven less by scientific curiosity and more by emotional projection. On social media platforms, users have framed the penguin as a symbol of independence, existential crisis or quiet defiance. Captions such as “The penguin knows” and “heading toward oblivion” reflect human interpretations rather than biological intent, with the animal increasingly treated as a metaphor rather than a subject of wildlife behaviour. What Scientists Say About The Behaviour Wildlife experts caution against reading intention into the penguin’s actions. While Adélie penguins occasionally wander, purposeful inland movement towards barren mountains is extremely rare and not considered typical survival behaviour. Scientists point to several possible explanations: Disorientation, particularly among young or inexperienced birds Illness or injury affecting navigation Exploration or dispersal, sometimes seen in younger individuals “Well, I’ve never seen a penguin bashing its head against a rock,” said Dr Ainley. “However, they do get disoriented.” In wildlife biology, such deviations are generally understood as individual variation, stress responses or environmental factors rather than conscious decision-making. Is The Behaviour A Cause For Concern? From a scientific standpoint, researchers say one wandering penguin does not indicate a broader crisis. Occasional unusual behaviour is observed across many animal species. Be a warrior, embrace the penguin. pic.twitter.com/64Fq7REgsZ — DOW Rapid Response (@DOWResponse) January 24, 2026 While the clip has been transformed into a powerful cultural symbol, scientists warn against anthropomorphism. The footage represents an isolated incident rather than evidence of population-level threat or behavioural change, though such anomalies remain of scientific interest. Meme Culture Meets Politics Adding a new dimension to the trend, a post shared on X by The White House has further fuelled speculation online. The post features a silhouette of former US President Donald Trump holding the penguin’s hand as the two walk towards the mountains. Embrace the penguin. pic.twitter.com/kKlzwd3Rx7 — The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 23, 2026 The image has been widely interpreted as symbolic, with some users suggesting it could allude to the ongoing Greenland situation. While no explanation accompanied the post, its timing and imagery have amplified the meme’s political undertones, blurring the line between humour, symbolism and geopolitics. Bollywood Remakes Of Penguin Meme The meme has also travelled into pop culture and brand-led humour. Netflix joined the trend on X with a post captioned “Penguins written by Imtiaz Ali”, pairing the line with an image of a sad, mopey penguin radiating emotional melancholy. Penguins written by Imtiaz Ali ❤️ pic.twitter.com/LipEzyKi53 — Netflix India (@NetflixIndia) January 23, 2026 The post drew on the filmmaker’s signature style of introspective, heartbroken protagonists, further cementing the penguin’s status as a vessel for human emotion rather than animal behaviour. The reference resonated widely online, as users connected the penguin’s solitary walk with the tropes of longing, inner turmoil and existential drift often associated with Bollywood romance narratives. Geopolitical Spin On The Penguin Meme The meme has also taken on a sharp geopolitical edge. Russia Today shared its own version on X with the caption: “Europeans counterattack Trump with POLAR BEARS to ‘save the Nihilist Penguin’.” Europeans counterattack Trump with POLAR BEARS to 'save the Nihilist Penguin' https://t.co/U5xmxaaT5M pic.twitter.com/0MY2zOKA3v — RT (@RT_com) January 24, 2026 The image shows cheerful-looking polar bears rescuing the wandering penguin, blending satire with political messaging. The post reframes the viral clip as a tongue-in-cheek allegory of global power dynamics, positioning the penguin as a contested symbol amid international tensions.  Meme Or Meaning? To social media users, the penguin has become a stand-in for human emotions, loneliness, rebellion and the search for purpose. To scientists, it remains a rare but explainable example of individual behavioural variation. Most researchers view the clip as scientifically interesting but not alarming, stressing that it does not point to evolutionary change or emerging behavioural patterns.

Awami League Regrouping In India, Holds Two Press Meets In Six Days, Calls For ‘Inclusive’ Polls

Just days before Bangladesh gears up to hold one of its most decisive general elections, the banned political party Awami League (AL) has come out in full public glare in India where their supremo, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has been living as a political refugee since she was ousted by students and civilians of that country, who revolted against her authoritarian rule. Bangladesh is holding its next round of parliamentary elections on 12 February, in which Awami League will not be able to participate as the political party has been officially banned from contesting the polls. On May 10, 2025, the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, invoked the Anti-Terrorism Act to ban the party's activities, including meetings, rallies, and digital presence. Following the government's order, the Bangladesh Election Commission suspended the Awami League's registration on May 12, 2025, legally barring it from contesting elections. On Saturday, for the first time since her arrival in India on 5 August, 2024, Hasina, along with other senior AL leaders, addressed a press conference for the first time, which was held under the aegis of the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia in New Delhi. “Bangladesh is battered and bleeding today; Our once serene and fertile land has been reduced to a wounded and blood-soaked landscape. The entire country has become a prison and execution ground. A valley of death where one can hear only the cries of the people,” Hasina said in an audio message, adding that “extremist communal forces” and “foreign perpetrators” are at play in Bangladesh. Hasina has been Bangladesh’s longest-serving Prime Minister. She said her ousting was a “meticulously engineered conspiracy” and a “treacherous plot” enacted by Yunus, who did this in collusion with “militant accomplices.” Through her entire seven-eight minutes speech at FCC, Hasina went on to call Yunus “national enemy, murderous and fascist” relentlessly. She said a "pall of fear" has fallen on the country due to Yunus’ policies. In an effort to mobilise the citizens of Bangladesh, the former PM said, “Please do not give up now … At this darkest time we reaffirm our destination to help you to restore the thriving homeland that was snatched away from you.” She even laid out a five-point action-plan in order to give shape to a “unified Bangladesh” which includes removing Yunus regime without which she said Bangladesh can never have free and fair elections, putting an end on daily acts of violences, ensuring safety of minority groups and women, putting an end to politically motivated campaigns against opposition political parties and civil society groups and lastly, she urged the UN to conduct an “impartial” investigation into the events of 2024 that led to her removal. A.K. Abdul Momen, senior leader of the party and former Foreign Minister of Bangladesh said, the country has descended into an “economic collapse, lawlessness and anarchy.” “Awami League enjoys overwhelming public support,” Momen said, who was addressing virtually from the United States, and called the upcoming elections as a “sham”. “This is a survival issue for Bangladesh.” “If Bangladesh is allowed to slide further into extremism and terrorism. The consequences will not remain confined within its borders,” he highlighted. Mohammad Ali Arafat, another senior AL leader, who was Hasina’s spokesperson, called for a return of democracy in Bangladesh. “We need the power to get it (democracy) back into the country … Simple solution is to hold free and fair and inclusive elections,” Arafat said, the 12 February elections are going to be “One-sided, preordained and rigged.” This comes from a party, which has been itself accused of holding elections by misusing the state machinery. Hasina and her government have been accused by the opposition parties of Bangladesh and even by the international community of manipulating three consecutive general elections in 2014, 2018, and 2024 to remain in power. India, which has recently renewed its engagement with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami Party, has remained silent on Awami League’s activities that are being carried out in India. ‘Awami League Is De Jure Government’  On 17 January, Awami League leaders held yet another media conference where they said they continue to represent themselves as the ‘de jure’ government of Bangladesh. According to Bangladesh’s former Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury, “There is a de jure position and there is a de facto position. De jure until the Constitution is changed, in a duly elected parliament it remains as it is. But the de facto government is whoever is sitting in Bangladesh right now, the interim regime. So our position is that it is an illegal regime … We are the de jure government.” This is the reason why those Awami League leaders, who held a ministerial portfolio, had asked not to be referred as “former” ministers because they believe constitutionally they still hold those positions. Chowdhury and some others of the party reside in India.  Hasan Mahmud, another senior leader of the party and the last Foreign Minister of Bangladesh currently living in Europe, launched a scathing attack at the UN Human Rights body, which said 1,400 individuals were killed between July 1 and August 15, 2024 under Hasina’s regime. The Office of the United Nations  High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) released the report in November 2025. The AL has even threatened to submit their complaints to the UN calling the earlier report “biased, one-sided & fabricated.” So far, Hasina has given over ten interviews to media outlets in which she not only called out the interim government of Bangladesh but also defended her actions and sought to put the blame on the July 2024 uprising to “external forces”. Sreeradha Datta, Professor, Jindal School of International Affairs, OP Jindal Global University, and author ‘Bangladesh on a New Journey: Moving beyond the Regional Identity’ told ABP Live, “Awami League is unable to contest the upcoming election in Bangladesh but they are one of the oldest and largest political party. They still have a large number of followers in Bangladesh and would need to find ways and means to return and find its political space.” “This is the beginning of what I see as a small incremental step towards that. However a large section of Bangladeshis will find it difficult to forget and forgive Awami League without any expression of remorse,” she added.

Why Scotland are chosen as Bangladesh's replacement

Bangladesh have been officially replaced by Scotland in the T20 World Cup after the ICC ruled that BCB’s demands did not align with its policy. ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta informed the Board and invited Scotland, citing their strong recent performances and No.14 ranking. Scotland, seen as the most deserving associate team, will play in Group C with matches in Kolkata and Mumbai.

ABP Live Pet First: Dog Dental Care Tips Every Pet Parent Must Know

Dogs are known for their loyalty, energy, and unconditional love, but one area of their health often goes unnoticed: dental care. Many pet parents focus on diet, exercise, and grooming, yet oral hygiene plays an equally vital role in a dog’s overall well-being. Poor dental health is not just about bad breath, it can quietly lead to pain, infections, and even serious illnesses affecting vital organs. Just like humans, dogs accumulate bacteria in their mouths every day. If left unmanaged, this bacteria hardens into plaque and tartar, eventually slipping below the gumline. From there, it can enter the bloodstream and impact organs such as the heart and kidneys. Regular dental care is not a luxury for dogs; it is a necessity for a long, healthy, and comfortable life. ALSO READ: ABP Live Pet First: Raising A Happy Cat? These Everyday Care Tips Make All The Difference Make Tooth Brushing A Part Of Your Dog’s Routine Brushing remains one of the most effective ways to keep a dog’s teeth clean. Many dogs tolerate, or even enjoy, brushing thanks to canine toothpaste designed with dog-friendly flavors such as chicken, beef, or peanut butter. For dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, it’s important to select toothpaste carefully and consult a veterinarian, especially if the dog is on a restricted or hydrolyzed diet. Dogs that are food-motivated and able to stay calm for a few minutes generally adapt well to brushing. Support Oral Health With Dental Powders For dogs that resist brushing, dental powders offer a convenient alternative. These powders are sprinkled directly onto food at every meal and work by promoting healthy bacteria in the mouth while targeting bacteria responsible for plaque formation. Used consistently, dental powders can help freshen breath and slow the buildup of tartar and plaque. While they do not replace brushing entirely, they are a helpful addition to a broader dental care routine. Use Water Additives For Everyday Protection Dental water additives are another low-effort option for maintaining oral hygiene. These tasteless solutions are mixed into a dog’s daily drinking water according to the instructions on the bottle. As the dog drinks, the solution helps reduce plaque-causing bacteria and improve breath freshness. Water additives are especially useful for dogs that are difficult to handle or dislike having their mouths touched. Consider Prescription Dental Diets Some dogs are more prone to periodontal disease or strongly oppose at-home dental care. In such cases, veterinarians may recommend prescription dental diets that are clinically proven to reduce dental disease. These specialised kibbles are designed to clean the tooth surface as the dog chews. They also contain ingredients that help limit the growth of bacteria responsible for plaque and tartar formation.  Add Dental Treats And Chews Wisely Dental treats can make oral care feel like a reward rather than a chore. When choosing chews, it’s important to look for products that carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s Seal of Acceptance, which indicates proven benefits in controlling tartar. Some dental chews are designed for daily use, while others are meant to be given occasionally as treats. These products help reduce plaque, limit tartar buildup, and create a protective barrier on the teeth, making it harder for bacteria to stick. Don’t Skip Professional Dental Cleanings Even with the best at-home care, tartar will still accumulate over time. Professional dental cleanings are essential to remove hardened tartar, especially beneath the gumline where brushing cannot reach. When visible tartar or signs of gingivitis appear, veterinarians typically recommend a dental cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia to ensure thorough and safe cleaning. [Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian regarding your pet’s health, diet, or any medical concerns.]

Anushka Sharma Keen On Buying IPL Franchise, But Will BCCI Give Approval?

The off-field buzz surrounding Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is reaching a fever pitch. According to growing reports, Bollywood star Anushka Sharma is allegedly in discussions to acquire a minority stake in the franchise. The deal is rumored to involve a 3% share in Virat Kohli-starrer RCB, with a valuation estimated around ₹400 crore. This development comes at a pivotal time for the franchise. Diageo, global spirits giant that owns RCB through United Spirits, recently informed SEBI that it has launched a strategic review of its investment. This move essentially signals that one of IPL's most profitable and beloved brands is officially exploring a sale or restructuring, expected to conclude by March 2026. "Conflict of Interest" Hurdle The idea of "First Lady of RCB" becoming an owner is far from simple. BCCI maintains strict regulations regarding Conflict of Interest: Player Restrictions: Since 2007, active players have been prohibited from holding stakes in IPL franchises. The "Kohli Factor": Virat Kohli is heartbeat of RCB's billion-dollar valuation. Under current rules, he cannot directly own a portion of the team. Family Technicalities: The big question remains whether BCCI would view an investment by a spouse (Anushka) as an indirect stake held by the player. BCCI's Rule 38 explicitly scrutinizes "Direct or Indirect Interest" involving family members. While some speculate that specific technicalities could be navigated to allow the Kohli family to deepen their roots in the franchise, any such move would likely face intense scrutiny from BCCI Ethics Officer. The Valuation Surge Following RCB's historic double championship win - with the men’s team finally lifting IPL trophy in 2025 and women’s team winning the WPL - the franchise's brand value has skyrocketed. Analysts now estimate the team's worth to be well over $1 billion, attracting interest from high-profile bidders like Adar Poonawalla. Whether Anushka Sharma joins the board or not, the "Red and Gold" army is clearly entering a new era of ownership that could redefine the business of cricket in India.

Who Is Vijay Kumar? Indian-Origin Man Charged For Killing Wife, 3 Relatives In US

The authorities in Lawrenceville, Georgia, have arrested a 51-year-old Indian-origin man, Vijay Kumar, in connection with the fatal shooting of his wife and three relatives, a crime that has stunned the local community and the Indian diaspora in the United States. The accused, Vijay Kumar, has been charged with multiple counts of murder following the early-morning shooting at a residential home. The victims have been identified as Meemu Dogra (43), Kumar’s wife, along with Gourav Kumar (33), Nidhi Chander (37), and Harish Chander (38). All four were found dead from gunshot wounds when police arrived at the scene, reported NDTV. Who Is Vijay Kumar? Vijay Kumar is a 51-year-old Indian-origin man based in Atlanta, Georgia, who has been arrested by U.S. authorities for allegedly killing his wife and three relatives in a deadly domestic shooting in Lawrenceville. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the brutal nature of the crime and the fact that multiple members of the same family were killed. According to investigators, Kumar lived with his wife, Meemu Dogra, and their 12-year-old son in Atlanta. He is accused of opening fire after a family dispute that reportedly began at his home and later escalated at a relative’s residence on Brook Ivy Court in Lawrenceville. Kumar now faces multiple serious charges, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and cruelty to children, as per reports.  How Deadly Incident Unfolded Investigators said the chain of events began with an argument between Vijay Kumar and his wife at their home in Atlanta. Following the dispute, the couple, accompanied by their 12-year-old son, travelled to the residence of their relatives on Brook Ivy Court in Lawrenceville. The home belonged to Gourav Kumar, Nidhi Chander, and Harish Chander, who lived there with two children aged 7 and 9. What began as a family visit soon turned tragic. At around 2:30 a.m., local police received emergency calls reporting gunfire at the residence. Officers rushed to the location and discovered four adults with fatal gunshot injuries inside the home. Children Survive By Hiding, Son Alerts Police Three children were found alive at the scene — Vijay Kumar’s 12-year-old son and the relatives’ two children. Police said the children had hidden inside a closet to escape the violence. It was the 12-year-old boy who managed to call 911, alerting authorities and guiding officers to the house. His call is credited with enabling a swift police response and ensuring the safety of the surviving children.

Heroic Australian Open farewell for Stan Wawrinka in loss to Taylor Fritz

Stan Wawrinka's illustrious Australian Open journey concluded in the third round after a challenging four-set loss to Taylor Fritz. The 40-year-old Swiss veteran, in his final career season, bowed out at John Cain Arena, marking a poignant farewell to the tournament he won in 2014. Despite a strong second-set response, Wawrinka couldn't overcome the physical demands and Fritz's resurgence.

Bangladesh out of T20 World Cup; Scotland named replacement

The ICC has officially replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for the men’s T20 World Cup 2026, starting February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. Scotland will play in Group C with Italy, Nepal, West Indies and England. The move follows Bangladesh’s refusal to tour India over security concerns, which the ICC rejected after risk assessments found no direct threat.