Times of India

SpaceX's latest Starship rocket test ended with the spacecraft's destruction despite a successful booster catch using 'chopsticks' at the pad. Communication with the spacecraft was lost 8 1/2 minutes into the mission after engine failures. Elon Musk announced improved versions are ready for future launches.

Israel delayed a key ceasefire agreement in Gaza due to last-minute disagreements with Hamas, leading to rising tensions in Netanyahu's coalition. The proposed deal aims to halt conflict and release numerous hostages, but faced strong opposition from Netanyahu's far-right partners. Despite international calls for implementation, the conflict has resulted in severe casualties and displacement in Gaza.

SpaceX’s seventh Starship test flight on Thursday achieved a significant milestone as the Super Heavy booster was successfully caught by robotic arms. However, the spacecraft’s engines failed mid-flight, and contact was lost 8.5 minutes after liftoff.

India has welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza, hoping it will ensure a safe and continuous supply of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The agreement, brokered by Egyptian and Qatari mediators with US backing, aims to halt the 15-month conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Reliance Industries reported a 12% increase in quarterly profit driven by strong demand in retail and higher telecom tariffs. Operating profit grew by 8% to Rs 45,595 crore while the digital services unit's profit rose 17% due to a rise in 5G subscribers.

Adani group stocks surged as news of Hindenburg Research's closure emerged, alongside positive developments in the Israel-Hamas conflict, increasing market capitalization by Rs 28,000 crore. Notably, NDTV rose 10%, Ambuja Cements 4%, and Adani Enterprises 1.7%. However, Adani Wilmar continued to decline. Despite the boost, the group's market value remains significantly below its peak following Hindenburg’s damning report in January 2023.

Hindenburg Research, known for targeting Adani Group in 2023 and causing a $140 billion loss in market value, is winding down. Despite facing backlash and stirring controversy, it uncovered corporate fraud globally, leading to significant legal actions and financial implications.

Tyrese Haliburton and Jade Jones are heading to Paris for the NBA Paris Games 2025, with their dog Ames joining the adventure. The Indiana Pacers will face the San Antonio Spurs in a highly anticipated showdown. Haliburton, after a strong start this season, is expected to recover from a recent injury in time for the games.

The cabinet made key decisions including setting up the eighth pay commission and approved extending a special package for fertilisers. PM Modi also launched several projects, including indigenously built naval combatants and Namo Bharat trains, highlighting an action-filled year aimed at boosting growth and welfare initiatives.

The Congress has filed a plea in the Supreme Court in favor of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, emphasizing its importance for maintaining secularism and communal harmony. They argue that any challenges to the Act could threaten India's secular fabric and fundamental constitutional principles.

Individuals are being scrutinized by the income tax department for fraudulent claims on donations, investments, and interest payments. Extensive searches revealed bogus donations to political parties and charities, as well as false claims on loans and house rent allowances. A new procedure is prompting taxpayers to revise returns or face penalties.

The Modi government announced the setting up of the eighth pay commission to benefit 1.1 crore central government employees and pensioners. This decision, made before Delhi votes, aims to enhance consumption demand and improve the quality of life. The implementation of the award is expected from 2026.

Abhay Singh, known as the IIT-Bombay Baba, suggests changes in the education system and introducing spirituality to reduce student suicides. Singh, an IIT-Bombay graduate, left a promising career for spiritual pursuits. His story has sparked a debate on student-friendly education and the role of spirituality in combating stress and depression.

Two robbers shot two security guards in Bidar, killing one and critically injuring the other. They stole Rs 87 lakh and escaped on a motorbike. The incident occurred while the guards were transporting money to an ATM van. Police are investigating the crime using CCTV footage and have leads on the suspects' identities.

Isro successfully completes India's first satellite-docking manoeuvre, marking a significant achievement towards future missions like Chandrayaan-4 and the country's own space station. The final docking attempt was made on Thursday after multiple postponements and used a precision alignment system. Prime Minister Modi and other officials hailed this achievement.

Union home minister Amit Shah inaugurated a museum in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's hometown, Vadnagar. The museum traces the 2,500-year history of the town and highlights its cultural and historical significance. Shah also opened a sports complex and the Prerna Centre to inspire future leaders.

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah announced that the Socio-Economic and Education Survey report, dubbed the 'caste census,' will be discussed in the next cabinet meeting. The report has faced delays due to administrative concerns and pressures from various caste groups. State ministers urged inclusivity for Lingayat sub-sects.

A 21-year-old student from Padmavati lost Rs10 lakh to fraudsters who promised to help her participate in a beauty pageant in Egypt. The student frequently participated in beauty pageants and was exploited. Her parents took a loan to support her. The girl discovered the fraud when she found the travel ticket was fake. She then filed an FIR.

Saif Ali Khan was attacked in his Bandra residence, raising concerns about safety in Mumbai. Celebrities including Parineeti Chopra and Raveena Tandon expressed their shock and called for stronger security measures. Director Kunal Kohli and writer Shobhaa De questioned the law enforcement's efficacy, emphasizing the vulnerability of Bandra's high-profile residents.

Police are investigating an attack on Saif Ali Khan at his Bandra residence which lacked surveillance cameras and security arrangements. The intruder's image was captured on the building's CCTV. The reported incident raises concerns about security measures for high-profile individuals, referencing past threats to Salman Khan as similar risks.