Times of India

Sanju Samson's decision to skip the Vijay Hazare Trophy might affect his selection for the Champions Trophy, drawing scrutiny from the BCCI and selectors. The absence of a clear reason for his unavailability has caused concerns, potentially influencing his chances in the ODI squad selection against England.

Rahul Gandhi visited patients at AIIMS Delhi, on Wednesday, listening to their problems and promising support. Struggling with long waits and government insensitivity, patients endure hardships, including improper treatment. Among them, a blood cancer patient’s family received a cash support commitment. Gandhi highlighted the Congress party's resilience and ideological fight against BJP and RSS.

Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan was attacked during a burglary attempt at his Bandra residence, leaving him with stab wounds. The intruder, armed with a hacksaw blade, entered without visible forced entry. Khan was hospitalized and is now stable. The building lacked proper security measures, prompting police to launch a large-scale manhunt for the suspect.

After five seasons, the Dallas Cowboys decided not to renew head coach Mike McCarthy's contract. His former quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, praised McCarthy's coaching ability and impact. McCarthy's career includes a Super Bowl win with the Packers, reflecting his strong leadership and strategic skills. Despite mixed sentiments from players, McCarthy's reputation remains compelling in the NFL.

A 24-year-old software engineer in Bengaluru ended her life by setting herself on fire due to sexual harassment and blackmail by her uncle. The accused, arrested by HAL police, had been threatening to leak her nude photos and videos to force physical intimacy. Her family and friend had earlier received warnings about her suicidal thoughts.

J P Morgan recommends buying Swiggy and Zomato stocks due to attractive entry points and positive ramp-up strategies. CLSA suggests an ‘outperform’ rating on HDFC Life despite a growth slowdown. HSBC sees L&T Technology Services as a buy given strong ER&D capabilities. Morgan Stanley favors Mahanagar Gas with an ‘overweight’ rating, and JM Financial praises PVR Inox's strong future prospects.

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.