Times of India

Delhi-NCR's air quality dipped sharply, triggering the implementation of GRAP stage III. Schools switched to hybrid learning for younger students, and older diesel vehicles faced stricter entry and operation restrictions within the city. These measures follow a recent relaxation of earlier pollution control restrictions.

Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee challenged those questioning electronic voting machine (EVM) integrity to demonstrate their claims to the Election Commission. Banerjee's comments echoed Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's stance, who criticized parties accepting EVM-based wins but blaming them for losses. Banerjee emphasized proper EVM procedures and urged complainants to present evidence to the Election Commission.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi carried a bag with "Palestine" written on it in Parliament. The bag also featured a watermelon, a symbol of Palestinian solidarity. This followed Gandhi's meeting with a Palestinian diplomat. The BJP criticized the gesture as appeasement. They said it was an attempt to grab headlines after election losses.

Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar criticized Yashasvi Jaiswal's early dismissal in the third Test against Australia, lamenting his poorly executed shot against Mitchell Starc. Jaiswal's attempted flick went straight to a fielder, ending his innings at just four runs. Gavaskar emphasized the need for a more cautious approach, especially after Australia's substantial first innings total.

A new congressional report reveals the devastating economic consequences of Donald Trump's planned mass deportations. Removing millions of undocumented immigrants could shrink GDP by 7.4%, trigger 9.1% price hikes, and cripple key industries like construction and agriculture. The report emphasizes immigrants' vital economic contributions and urges immigration reform instead of deportations.

During a Rajya Sabha session, opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge engaged in a lighthearted exchange with BJP MPs while discussing the Jana Sangha's historical stance on the Constitution. He criticized Prime Minister Modi's economic policies and questioned his contributions to strengthening democracy, highlighting the importance of past social welfare programs for the poor.

Michael Dell, CEO of Dell Technologies, advocates for a balanced work approach. He emphasizes working smarter, not harder, prioritizing sleep and incorporating humor into the workplace. Dell encourages young professionals to experiment, take risks, and find valuable work while maintaining a healthy blend of work and personal life.

India's struggles in the Border Gavaskar Trophy continued at the Gabba, with Australia posting a formidable first-innings total. Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali attributed India's woes to a disconnect between captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir, citing inconsistent selection choices. India's bowling, heavily reliant on Jasprit Bumrah's six-wicket haul, faltered against Travis Head and Steve Smith's centuries.

Prayagraj prepares for the 2025 Maha Kumbh, the world's largest religious gathering. The event features enhanced infrastructure, extensive healthcare provisions, and heightened security measures. Record-breaking attempts and environmental initiatives are planned, attracting global attention and academic study.

Isa Guha apologised for referring to Jasprit Bumrah as the "Most Valuable Primate" during commentary. The former England cricketer's remark, though intended as praise, sparked controversy due to its potential for misinterpretation, particularly given cricket's history with racial sensitivity. Guha expressed regret for any offense caused, emphasizing her commitment to equality and inclusion.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and US President-elect Trump held a discussion regarding the hostage crisis in Gaza and the situation in Syria. Netanyahu emphasized Israel's commitment to securing the release of hostages and achieving a decisive victory. He also warned Iran and Hezbollah against further actions, highlighting Israel's changing influence in the Middle East amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas.

Cyclone Chido devastated Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, potentially causing hundreds or even thousands of deaths. Rescue efforts are hampered by damaged infrastructure and the custom of quick burials. Hospitals and homes are severely damaged, with many injured. Aid is arriving from France and international organizations.

World-renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at 73 due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The legendary musician, son of Ustad Alla Rakha, collaborated with prominent Western artists, bridging Indian classical music with global audiences. He received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan. His family confirmed his passing, prompting an outpouring of condolences.

Chinese President Xi Jinping acknowledged internal conflicts within the Communist Party as inevitable, emphasizing the need for discipline and purging negative influences. His renewed anti-corruption campaign, revealed in a recent speech, continues to target officials, even loyalists, contributing to bureaucratic paralysis amid a slowing economy. The party is now urging the removal of internal threats to solidify its legitimacy.

South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol faces investigation for insurrection after imposing martial law, deploying over 1,500 troops. The Constitutional Court reviews his impeachment while ruling party leader Han Dong-hoon resigns, expressing no regret for supporting the impeachment. North Korea labels Yoon as the "ringleader of rebellion." Prime Minister Han Duck-soo serves as interim leader during the court's deliberation.

Bitcoin soared to a new all-time high, fueled by President-elect Trump's pro-crypto stance and plans for US dominance in the sector. The surge, exceeding $106,000, boosted the broader crypto market. Trump's support for a national Bitcoin reserve and a friendlier regulatory environment are driving investor optimism and inflows into Bitcoin ETFs.

A 400-year-old Shiva and Hanuman temple, rediscovered during an electricity theft inspection in Sambhal district, has reopened after 46 years. Authorities cleaned the premises, installed electricity and CCTV cameras, and performed a prayer ceremony. The SDM plans to restore the original structure and appoint a caretaker. An ancient well was also uncovered during the operation.

Allu Arjun's "Pushpa 2" continues its box office rampage, crossing Rs 900 crore in India and ₹1200 crore globally in just ten days. The film has now secured the third spot on the list of highest-grossing Indian films worldwide, surpassing "RRR." Strong second-weekend earnings suggest further record-breaking potential.