National News

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal lauds India head coach Gautam Gambhir as a 'brother' and praises MS Dhoni's calm demeanour and stellar career. Akmal congratulates Gambhir on his recent success, winning his first Test series as a coach against Bangladesh. Gambhir's dedication is highlighted by his visit to the Maa Pitambara Temple during Shardiya Navratri.

Before Meghan's wedding, she reached out to Victoria for advice of best facials and hairdresser in London. But the story was leaked to the UK Sun. Since Meghan did not leak it to the press, it was presumably Victoria and Harry was asked to complain to David. The Beckhams denied any leak but Harry and Meghan became distrustful of them.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's rapid economic growth, highlighting Rs 1.25 lakh crore investments under PLI schemes, ongoing advancements in AI and semiconductor industries, and improvements in the Global Innovation Index. He affirmed confidence in sustaining over 7% growth despite global uncertainties.

Tamil Nadu deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin responded cryptically to Andhra Pradesh deputy CM Pawan Kalyan's warning against those opposing 'Sanatana Dharma'. Kalyan suggested creating a 'Sanatana Dharma Protection Board' and implementing certification measures. Stalin had previously sparked controversy by comparing 'Sanatana Dharma' to diseases, later clarifying his comments were against its divisive nature.

At least 28 suspected Naxalites have been killed in a fierce encounter with security forces in Narayanpur district. The gunfight erupted in Abujhmarh forests near Thulthuli village. Security forces from Dantewada and Narayanpur were involved. Automatic weapons and explosives were recovered. The encounter is part of heightened anti-Naxal operations in the Bastar region.

Passengers on a Muscat-bound Air India Express flight were safely evacuated after smoke was detected just before takeoff. All 142 passengers received food and beverages at the terminal, and an alternative flight was arranged. The departure was delayed due to a scheduled runway closure. An investigation into the cause is underway.

The intense India vs Australia Test cricket rivalry is highlighted by sledging, especially from India's Rishabh Pant. Australian players unanimously recognize Pant as the primary sledger and banterer. The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins November 22, with India aiming to secure their position in the World Test Championship final.

Aaryavir Sehwag, son of legendary Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag, made a notable debut in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy, scoring 49 runs to help Delhi secure a six-wicket win against Manipur. His performance included a crucial 61-run stand with skipper Pranav Pant, who remained unbeaten on 75 off 45 balls, enhancing his cricketing credentials.

Govinda, who recently made headlines for accidentally shooting himself (on the left leg) with a loaded revolver, finally shared details about how he injured his leg during a recent press conference, shortly after being discharged from the hospital today (October 4).

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to Sri Lanka focuses on enhancing economic recovery efforts, strengthening cooperation in tourism, energy, and investment. He meets Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath to reaffirm India's support and discuss key collaboration areas.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif supports a new IPL rule change that allows MS Dhoni to play as an uncapped player beyond 2024, despite his last appearance for India in 2019. Kaif highlights Dhoni's influence and fitness, while emphasizing that financial aspects don't concern Dhoni, making this rule change significant for both him and CSK.

Abhimanyu Easwaran's dismissal for 191 in the Irani Cup 2024 against Mumbai was a key moment on the fourth day at Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow. His crucial 165-run partnership with Dhruv Jurel helped Rest of India reach a substantial total of 416. Mumbai now leads by over 250 runs, setting up a tense final day.

Kamala Harris’s estrangement from her father, Donald J. Harris, stems from complex family dynamics dating back to her parents’ separation when she was a child. Despite their proximity in Washington, they have been distant for years, with personality similarities, ambition, and past conflicts contributing to the rift. Kamala’s close relationship with her mother and Donald’s absence at key life events deepened the divide. While he remains proud of her achievements, the potential for reconciliation exists, though neither has actively pursued it.

Amid rumours of a rift in Haryana Congress, Rajya Sabha MP Kumari Selja affirms her candidacy for the chief minister's post if the party wins the upcoming elections, citing her seniority and contributions. She dismisses speculations of joining the BJP.

The central government expressed disappointment and condemnation over Islamic preacher Zakir Naik's visit to Pakistan, where he was warmly welcomed. Naik, wanted in India for hate speech and terror-related charges, is set to deliver lectures across major Pakistani cities, highlighting his controversial background and ongoing legal issues. Naik, 58, is the founder of the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF). A doctor by profession, he is known for delivering inflammatory lectures in English, unlike many other Islamic preachers who use Urdu or Arabic.

Ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australian cricketers Steve Smith and Pat Cummins acknowledge India's challenge, emphasizing the importance of the series starting on November 22. Smith respects India's dominance while skipper Cummins seeks to amend past defeats. Star spinner Nathan Lyon also praises the Indian squad, and said he has always loved to compete against the star-studded Indian line-up.

MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma are the most successful IPL captains with five titles each, but Rohit's Mumbai Indians have historically bested Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in finals. Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh explains how MI consistently outperform CSK in crucial games and praises both captains for inspiring their teams to victory.

India has not initiated an evacuation process from Israel, Iran, and other Middle Eastern countries amid ongoing tensions, but flights remain available for those wishing to return. The Indian government emphasises restraint and civilian protection, and seeks to prevent a wider regional conflict.

The Supreme Court has dismissed petitions seeking a review of its earlier judgment that confirmed states' constitutional power to create sub-categories within Scheduled Castes for reservation benefits. The seven-judge bench, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, found no error in the original ruling and denied open court hearings for the review petitions.