Times of India

Shabnam Sinha is set to take over as chairperson of Airtel Payments Bank starting October 1. With Sunil Bharti Mittal concluding his term as non-executive chairman on September 30, 2026, Sinha's appointment is timely. As an independent director with profound leadership credentials, she intends to leverage the bank's substantial growth and enhance digital banking access throughout India, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and expansion.

Vishal Garg seeks reinstatement as Better Home & Finance CEO after his termination. He offers to work for one dollar annually until the company achieves profitability. Garg acknowledges past execution issues and the damage from the 2021 Zoom layoffs. He believes Daniel Lewis, his replacement, lacked innovation ideas for the company. Garg remains a board member and has investor support for his return.

Govinda recently performed his signature dance moves at a Pattaya club. Videos of his energetic performance quickly circulated across social media platforms. Fans shared divided opinions regarding the veteran actor's club appearance. This event occurs amidst ongoing public discussions about his marriage. Govinda's professional activities continue despite personal life controversies.

Smriti Irani is reappointed as a general secretary for the BJP's national team, a move that highlights the party's strategic push in Uttar Pradesh ahead of upcoming elections. Following setbacks in the recent Lok Sabha elections, her previous success in Amethi positions her as a critical asset. This role will see her coordinating with state units and overseeing candidate selections.

Ravindra Jadeja achieved a significant career milestone in Test cricket. He became the fourth player ever to score 4,000 runs and take 350 wickets. This remarkable feat was accomplished during the first Test against Sri Lanka. Jadeja joins an elite group of all-rounders with this achievement. His efficiency is highlighted by reaching this landmark in under 100 matches.

Marking its first 100 days in office, the Tamil Nadu government emphasized a strong agenda against corruption, unveiling initiatives such as a dedicated women's safety task force. A landmark conclave secured investment commitments totaling Rs 1.02 lakh crore, alongside the introduction of welfare measures like gold rings for newborns, showcasing a clear focus on accountability and progressive development plans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the newly appointed national office-bearers of the Bharatiya Janata Party. He highlighted the team's blend of experience, vitality, and strong grassroots ties. Nitin Nabin leads this refreshed squad, which features thirteen vice presidents and a new treasurer, maintaining prominent positions for individuals like Piyush Goyal and B L Santosh, while introducing new national secretaries to bolster the party's framework.

Marjorie Taylor Greene has raised alarms suggesting that Trump administration officials are considering the use of nuclear weapons against Iran during strategic meetings. Amid escalating tensions, she asserts that US intelligence lacks evidence of Iran advancing towards nuclear arsenal capabilities. Meanwhile, Trump maintains pressure on Tehran for key concessions, particularly regarding control over the crucial Strait of Hormuz, which remains a central conflict zone between the two nations.

In a significant operation, the Uttar Pradesh ATS apprehended a resident of Bihar due to suspected ties with Jaish-e-Mohammed. He reportedly solicited donations for a madrasa while attempting to funnel funds to Pakistan. Intelligence assessments highlighted his connections with Maulana Masood Azhar, as well as evidence of interactions with Pakistani jihadist groups through social media and phone records. The investigation unveiled damaging materials and admissions supporting the allegations.

India's Navy will lease two MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones for enhanced Indian Ocean surveillance. This leasing agreement boosts maritime domain awareness and response capabilities significantly. India also plans to acquire thirty-one MQ-9B Predator drones from the United States. This acquisition includes domestic assembly, strengthening India's defense manufacturing ecosystem. The deal underscores a growing strategic partnership focused on regional security.

In Hatikhuli-Ronghang village, a remarkable relationship with wild elephant herds has blossomed. By establishing dedicated feeding zones, the community effectively reduces crop damage and tackles food shortages along traditional elephant migration routes. This transformation has allowed farmers to resume paddy cultivation, fostering a newfound harmony between humans and elephants. The Hati Bondhu initiative beautifully illustrates the potential for peaceful coexistence between culture and wildlife.

The Karmajeevi Awaas Yojana 2026 launched by the Delhi Development Authority has sparked tremendous enthusiasm from potential homeowners. On the very first day, all one-bedroom flats were snapped up by eager applicants. This program, designed to provide affordable ready-to-move homes in Narela, primarily targets both government staff and qualified professionals. Interested parties can submit their bookings until October 2026, or until all units are sold out.

Actress Hayden Panettiere, known for Heroes, has sadly passed away. She was 36 years old when her representative confirmed the news. Panettiere gained fame as Claire Bennet on the sci-fi series Heroes. She also starred as Juliette Barnes in the drama Nashville. Her memoir detailed struggles with addiction and postpartum depression.

Throughout August, banks will have multiple closures due to various regional and national holidays. Customers are encouraged to verify the specific holiday hours pertinent to their state before heading to a branch. Key closures include August 25 and 26 for Milad-Un-Nabi and Thiruvonam, with an additional break on August 28 for Raksha Bandhan and other local celebrations. Fortunately, online and mobile banking services will remain available during this period.