Pi Mainnet's Open Network phase begins at 8:00 AM UTC

 Pi Network's Big Moment: Open Network Launch on February 20, 2025!

As per the Pi Network Official, the following article was published today.

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Hey Pioneers! Huge news—Pi Network is officially moving into the Open Network phase of Mainnet at 8:00 AM UTC on February 20, 2025! (1:30 pm Wednesday Indian Standard Time IST)

 After six years of hard work from our amazing community, we’re taking the next giant step in making Pi a real-world digital currency that people can use daily.

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How Far We’ve Come

We’ve already hit some incredible milestones:

• 10.14 million Pioneers have successfully migrated to the Mainnet, surpassing our 10 million goal.
• 19 million users have completed identity verification (KYC), making Pi a trusted and secure network.
• The Pi ecosystem is thriving with over 100 Mainnet-ready apps for real-world use.

Since launching the Mainnet’s Enclosed Network phase in December 2021, we’ve been building the foundation for the Open Network. This phase helped Pioneers complete KYC, allowed developers to create real Pi-powered apps, and gave the Core Team time to improve the platform.

To speed up progress, the Grace Period was introduced on July 1, 2024, encouraging more people to pass KYC and move to the Mainnet. Events like PiFest 2024 proved Pi’s real-world usability, with over 950,000 Pioneers participating in local transactions using Pi.

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The network should continue the KYC and migration process after the Open Network launches. If you haven’t yet, please do so as soon as possible in the Open Network period. 

What Happens at Open Network Launch?

The Open Network launch means Pi can now connect with the outside world! Here’s what you need to know:

• Pi transactions can happen beyond the Pi ecosystem. The firewall will be removed, allowing Pi to interact with other compliant networks and systems.
• Anyone can add nodes to the blockchain. Initially, priority will be given to the most reliable and active node operators from Testnet.
• Businesses must complete KYB verification (Know Your Business) to ensure a secure and trustworthy ecosystem.
• Pioneers must complete KYC to participate in Mainnet activities.

How to Prepare for an Open Network

Pioneers:

1. Keep mining and contributing to help grow the network.

2. Use Pi apps and engage with the Pi ecosystem.

3.  Support local businesses that accept Pi for goods and services.

4. Complete KYC and migrate to Mainnet if you haven’t already.

Developers:

1. Refine and improve your Mainnet apps based on user feedback.

2.  Build new apps to expand the Pi ecosystem and its real-world uses.

Why Now?

Pi Network has met all the required conditions for Open Network:

• All tech, product, legal, and business work is completed.
• The community exceeded the original KYC and migration goals.
• The ecosystem now includes over 100 Mainnet-ready apps.

The Future of Pi Network

This is just the beginning. Open Network will unlock even more opportunities for pioneers, businesses, and developers to grow a decentralised, inclusive digital economy. Get ready for February 20, 2025—it’s time to take Pi to the next level!

Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s build the future of digital finance together!

 

The AAP and Congress are in crisis.

Congress Faces Crisis After Poor Delhi Election Results

 RAHUL GANDHI

The recent Delhi Assembly elections have left Congress in deep trouble, as the party failed to win even a single seat. This marks the third time in a row that Congress has scored zero in Delhi, raising serious concerns among party leaders. Many senior Congress leaders are now demanding urgent changes in the party's structure and strategy.

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Growing Calls for Change

Several leaders within Congress believe that the party needs to rethink its approach. Congress MP Tariq Anwar has urged the leadership to clarify its political strategy and make necessary changes within the party. Similarly, senior leader Rashid Alvi has emphasized the importance of respecting all allies in the INDIA alliance if Congress wants to challenge the BJP effectively.

Alvi also expressed concerns about how the election results have affected the Muslim community in Delhi. He suggested that if Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had worked together, the BJP could have been defeated. According to him, the party leadership must decide whether to continue contesting elections alone or form strong alliances.

BJP’s Response

The BJP has taken this opportunity to criticize Congress. BJP MP Anurag Thakur mocked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his party’s repeated failure in Delhi elections. He also pointed out that during Congress's rule, income tax rates were high, while the new tax system introduced by the BJP is more beneficial for the common people.

Impact on Punjab Politics

ARVIND KEJRIWAL

The Delhi election results have not only affected Congress but have also created uncertainty in Punjab politics. AAP leader and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal is reportedly worried, as his party suffered a major setback in its stronghold. With legal cases against AAP leaders still ongoing, Kejriwal’s position has become weaker.

There are growing speculations that Punjab might see mid-term elections. Some BJP and Congress leaders believe that if elections are not held early, Kejriwal might replace Bhagwant Mann as Punjab’s Chief Minister to strengthen his hold on the state.

The BJP has also accused Kejriwal of misusing Punjab’s government machinery during the Delhi elections. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann actively campaigned for AAP in Delhi, but the party still lost wherever he campaigned. This has raised doubts about AAP’s future in Punjab and nationally.

What’s Next for Congress and AAP?

With Congress struggling to stay relevant and AAP facing an uncertain future, both parties need to rethink their strategies. If they want to challenge the BJP effectively, they might need to work together rather than compete against each other. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the political landscape of Delhi and Punjab.

  

Election in Delhi: February 5, 2025

 Delhi Election 2025:

Everything You Need to Know

DELHI ELECTION

The big day is almost here! Delhi is all set to vote in the 2025 Assembly Elections on February 5. Campaigning has officially ended, and now, all eyes are on the polls. The election will be a three-way contest between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress. Voting will take place at 13,766 polling stations, and the results will be announced on February 8.

Key Highlights

·         Voting Date: February 5, 2025

·         Results Announcement: February 8, 2025

·         Total Voters: 1.56 crore (83.76 lakh men, 72.36 lakh women, 1,267 third-gender voters)

·         Security Arrangements: 220 paramilitary companies, 19,000 home guards, and 35,626 Delhi police personnel

·         Holiday Declared: Paid holiday for all employees in government and private sectors, including shops and businesses

Top Updates Before Voting Day

Political War of Words

·         Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal of corruption.

·         Kejriwal responded by criticizing the BJP government’s budget and tax policies.

·         Congress candidate Sandeep Dikshit mocked Kejriwal’s confidence in winning 55 out of 70 seats.

Election Commission's Role

·         The EC has assured strict monitoring to prevent any election violations.

·         Security forces will be on high alert to ensure smooth polling.

·         Mobile phones, smartwatches, and cameras are banned inside polling booths.

AAP vs. BJP

·         AAP claims there have been cases of voter suppression and threats.

·         BJP MP Harsh Malhotra said Kejriwal will soon start blaming EVMs as an excuse for losing power.

·         Delhi CM Atishi and AAP chief Kejriwal met the EC, alleging election malpractice.

Crime and Security Measures

·         14 proclaimed offenders arrested.

·         25 FIRs filed for Model Code of Conduct violations.

·         340 arrests made in the last 24 hours.

·         1,835 liters of liquor were seized and 278 people were arrested for drinking in public.

·         2,500 cops are guarding East Delhi, with all 22 borders sealed.

Key Candidates in the Fray

·         New Delhi Seat: Arvind Kejriwal (AAP) vs. Parvesh Verma (BJP) vs. Sandeep Dikshit (Congress)

·         BJP's Stand: BJP leaders claim Delhi voters are angry with AAP and will vote for a change.

·         Congress' Role: Congress aims for a comeback after failing to win any seats in the last election.

Past Election Results

·         2020: AAP won 62 out of 70 seats; BJP got 8; Congress won 0.

·         2015: AAP swept 67 out of 70 seats; BJP won 3; Congress got none.

·         BJP has not ruled Delhi for 27 years.

Weather Forecast for Polling Week

·         February 5: 22-24°C during the day, 9-11°C at night; cloudy skies with possible rain.

·         February 6: Slightly warmer at 23-25°C during the day and 8-10°C at night.

·         February 7-8: 24-26°C in the day, 8-10°C at night, with foggy mornings and clear afternoons.

·         February 9: 24-26°C during the day, 10-12°C at night, with a mild breeze.

Final Word

Delhi is gearing up for a crucial election. With tight security, increased vigilance, and major political parties battling it out, February 5 will be a big day for the capital. Make sure to vote and have your say in shaping Delhi’s future!

 

Breaking news 4th Feb 2025

US Deports Indian Migrants on Military Aircraft in First under Trump’s New Term

Illegal Indian immigrants after they were deported from the US, at Terminal 3, IGI airport, in New Delhi. (Representative file image)(Sanchit Khanna/HT PHOTO)

In a first since Donald Trump’s return to the White House, the US has deported a group of illegal Indian migrants on a C-17 military aircraft. A US official confirmed to Reuters that the plane departed with the deportees but would take at least 24 hours to reach India.

The Trump administration has ramped up efforts to curb illegal immigration, deploying military resources to support its agenda, including additional troops at the US-Mexico border and military aircraft for deportations.

President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have raised concerns about illegal Indian immigrants in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Trump stated that India would "do what is right" in accepting deported nationals.

The White House described Trump and Modi’s recent conversation as "productive," emphasizing their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation. Hindustan Times

PM Modi to Visit US on February 12 for Talks with President Trump

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the US on February 12-13 for a bilateral meeting with President Donald Trump, according to sources. This will be Modi’s first visit to Washington since Trump’s re-election.

The visit comes amid Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration, with reports suggesting over 18,000 illegal Indian immigrants may be deported. Trade discussions are also expected, as Trump has previously criticized India's tariffs on American goods. Before heading to Washington, PM Modi will conclude a two-day visit to Paris.

 

BREAKING NEWS 3rd FEB2025

Trump Ends Protections for Venezuelans, Faces Backlash

The Trump administration has revoked Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 300,000 Venezuelans in the U.S., putting them at risk of deportation. Those who received TPS in 2023 will lose protection 60 days after the official termination notice. Immigrant rights groups are expected to challenge the decision.

The New York Times

 

Trade War Escalates with Retaliatory Tariffs

In response to Trump's trade measures, Canada announced 25% tariffs on $100 billion in U.S. goods, including honey, whiskey, and tomatoes. China and Mexico also vowed countermeasures, raising fears of a global economic shift favoring China. Trump defended the tariffs despite acknowledging potential economic pain. Ref The New York Times

Top News Briefs The new York times

India: The Maha Kumbh Mela, a massive religious festival, is being leveraged as a political tool by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his allies.

 

Maha Kumbh Mela

Diplomacy: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in Washington for key meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump.

Nature: Scientists from Canada and the U.S. are investigating the cause of brain swelling linked to mysterious great white shark deaths.

Music: Young women dominated pop music this year and are set to make waves at the Grammys. Here's how to watch the event.

Middle East: Hamas released three more hostages, while Israel freed over 180 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday.

 

Africa: Goma residents in the Democratic Republic of Congo face severe shortages of food and water after Rwanda-backed rebels took control.

U.S.: Investigators are examining why an American Airlines plane suddenly turned upward before colliding with an Army helicopter last week.

 

Sports

Chess: Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa won the Tata Steel Masters 2025, defeating World Champion D Gukesh in a thrilling tiebreak in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands, on February 2. He is the first Indian to claim the title since Viswanathan Anand in 2006. The two young stars were tied after 13 classical rounds in the 14-player event.

R Praggnanandhaa PTI photo

Soccer: Arsenal delivered a stunning 5-1 victory over Manchester City at Emirates Stadium.

Golf: Rory McIlroy’s flawless seven-under 65 lit up Pebble Beach in California.

Hockey: The Minnesota Wild’s Ryan Hartman may face a significant suspension after shoving Ottawa’s Tim Stützle’s face into the ice.

Bottom of Form

 LOCAL NEWS  ASSAM

Asom Sahitya Sabha Draws Record Crowd at 77th Session.

CULTURAL PROCESSION, PATSALA SAHITYA SABHA 

The 77th session of the Asom Sahitya Sabha witnessed an unprecedented gathering of over 10 lakh people at Bhattadev Kshetra in Pathsala, Bajali. The massive event blended literary enthusiasm, cultural heritage, and scientific innovation, celebrating Assam’s rich traditions. Traditional Assamese instruments like the dhol, taal, and nagara filled the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the historic occasion.

  

Breaking News 2nd Feb 2025

 

At least 5 dead, several injured as bus carrying pilgrims falls into gorge in Gujarat
Five people were killed and several injured after a bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge in Gujarat's Dang district on Sunday, as per a PTI report. 

Trump Imposes Tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico

Donald Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced new import tariffs from China, Canada, and Mexico. He imposed a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada and a 10% tariff on products from China. Canadian energy imports will have an extra 10% tariff.

The White House said the tariffs are meant to address illegal immigration and the spread of fentanyl, a deadly drug. Trump used a special law, the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), to put these tariffs in place.

Nashik: At least seven people lost their lives, and 15 others sustained serious injuries after a luxury bus plunged into a 200-foot gorge on the Nashik-Gujarat Highway early Sunday morning.

The accident occurred around 5:30 am, following which emergency teams rushed the injured to a nearby hospital. Authorities are investigating the cause of the mishap

Trump announced on his Truth Social account that he is taking action to protect Americans and fulfill his campaign promise to stop illegal immigration and drug trafficking. The White House also confirmed that there will be no exceptions to these tariffs.

Canada, Mexico Respond to Trump’s 25% Tariff Announcement

Following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed to retaliate. He stated that Canada would impose a 25% tariff on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods, starting with $30 billion on Tuesday and an additional $125 billion in the next 21 days.

Meanwhile, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum responded by emphasizing that tariffs do not solve problems. She stated that Mexico seeks cooperation, not conflict, with neighboring countries.

Assam Sahitya Sabha Creates Record with Largest Japi

Largest Japi in Assam Sahitya Sabha

Pathsala, Feb 1: The Assam Sahitya Sabha has set a record by making the largest Japi ever, earning a place in the India Book of Records. This giant traditional Assamese hat was unveiled at the 77th Biennial Pathsala Conference in Bhattadev Khetra, Bajali.

The Japi measures 555 square meters with a 13.3-meter radius and is made from bamboo, cane, and palm leaves using traditional methods.

The event also included a science fair, book fair, and cultural programs. Krishna Roy, an Assam Saurav Award winner, inaugurated a symbolic gateway to literature and culture.

Over 400 guests from India and abroad, including writers from the US, UK, Germany, Nepal, and Arunachal Pradesh, are attending the week-long conference. Cultural performances by artists like Pulak Banerjee, Mithun Dhar, Bipin Chawdang, Achurya Barpathra, Priyanka Bharali, and Joy Barua will take place. The event will also feature classical and folk dances, including Satriya and Devdasi performances, and an exhibition of traditional costumes.

This grand celebration of Assamese art, literature, and heritage highlights Assam’s rich cultural legacy.

 

The celebrations will culminate on February 4 with cultural acts by Achurya Barpathra, Priyanka Bharali, and Joy Barua, alongside an exhibition of traditional costumes from Assam and the Northeast.                         Ref Assam Tribune.

Bumrah & Mandhana Win Best Indian Cricketer Award

Bumrah & Mandhana

Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and women’s team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana were honored as the Best Indian International Cricketers at the BCCI Annual Awards in Mumbai. Sachin Tendulkar received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Bumrah played a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup victory and was the Player of the Series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, taking 32 wickets. Mandhana was the highest run-scorer in women’s cricket in 2024, scoring 743 runs with four ODI centuries. Their outstanding performances earned them this prestigious recognition.