National News

India's nuclear ambitions have reached a pivotal stage with the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor achieving criticality, marking a significant step in its three-stage nuclear program. This advancement positions India as a leader in advanced nuclear technology, bolstering its drive for energy self-reliance and security amidst a rapidly expanding power sector.

Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi praised Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as a future star, recalling his disbelief at the teenager’s talent. Speaking to Michael Vaughan, Modi said the youngster’s confidence stood out. While Vaughan flagged challenges of fame, Modi noted the IPL’s role in creating opportunities and inspiring many young cricketers across India.

Akshay Kumar marks a strong comeback with the horror‑comedy Bhoot Bangla, rolling out paid previews on April 16 and a full release on April 17. Set in a haunted mansion, the film mixes laughs, scares and family chaos, positioned as a light‑hearted masala entertainer rather than pure horror, with strong early advance‑booking figures signalling a hopeful box‑office start after a quiet patch since December 2025.

Uncertainty surrounded Rohit Sharma before MI’s clash with Punjab Kings after his hamstring injury. He skipped training, and scans raised concerns. At the toss, Hardik Pandya confirmed Rohit would miss multiple games. Mitchell Santner was also unavailable, forcing changes, with Quinton de Kock returning and a debut for Mayank Rawat.

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath drew parallels between Bengal's current situation and UP's past, highlighting law and order issues, mafia rule, and corruption. He accused the TMC of creating an identity crisis and appealed for a BJP government to end terror and corruption in West Bengal.

Backing the idea of reserving seats for women legislators, Priyanka said her party was not opposing women’s representation itself, but questioning what she described as the political intent behind the timing and framing of the bill. She argued that the ruling NDA was using the measure as an electoral strategy rather than as a purely reform-driven step.

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun has reportedly refused to speak with Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu. This comes after US President Donald Trump suggested the leaders would hold talks. Lebanese officials informed the US and Israel that negotiations will not proceed until a ceasefire is achieved. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues despite recent discussions.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan was astonished as Lalit Modi revealed his extensive Ferrari collection during an interview. Modi gifted his son a Ferrari every year from age 21, amassing 11 cars for him, while Modi himself owns 21. The conversation also touched upon emerging cricket talent like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

2025 saw third edition of Chennai Grand Masters. R Vaishali, the nation's toast at the moment, was invited to compete in the Challengers section, which includes relatively lower-rated players than the Masters field. Vaishali had a nightmarish tournament, finishing rock bottom. The winner of the Challengers section was Munirethinam Pranesh, a baby-faced assassin on the board.