Times of India

AB de Villiers praised Rohit Sharma for his leadership and batting after India's four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy final. Rohit top-scored with 76 runs and was named Player of the Final. De Villiers emphasised Rohit's impressive record and growth, dismissing retirement rumours and highlighting his significant contributions to Indian cricket.

N R Narayana Murthy, Infosys Co-Founder, stressed job creation by innovative entrepreneurs as the solution to poverty, not freebies. He urged entrepreneurs to build businesses generating employment, while expressing concerns over India's cash transfers to 80 crore people. Murthy also criticized many artificial intelligence solutions as outdated, emphasizing the need for genuine innovation.

An 80-year-old woman donated her kidney to her 59-year-old son with end-stage renal disease. The transplant was successfully conducted by Dr. HS Bhatyal and his team at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital. Both the mother and son have recovered well and were discharged a few days after the surgery. This case emphasizes the potential of modern medicine.

Four family members, including a doctor, his wife, and two sons, were found dead by hanging in their Anna Nagar West home. Initial investigations suggest the doctor faced financial difficulties in his scan business, possibly leading to their tragic deaths. The bodies were discovered by their driver, and the police have registered a case.

Suchir Balaji's mother challenges the suicide ruling over her son’s death, citing inconsistencies and potential foul play. She questions the use of sedatives and faulty CCTV footage. Despite authorities maintaining the suicide verdict, the family persists in seeking justice with independent investigations, drawing support from figures like Elon Musk who also suspects foul play.

Morgan Stanley maintains that India's long-term equity outlook is strong, despite recent market dips. Key factors include positive GDP projections, favorable inflation trends, RBI's easing measures, and increased foreign investment confidence. Market recovery in 2025 is predicted, though global economic fluctuations could pose risks.

The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) has released admit cards for the SSLC exams, which will be held from March 20 to April 2, 2025. Schools must verify student details by March 17. Hall tickets can be downloaded online or collected from schools. Principals will be accountable for errors, and special accommodations must be confirmed in advance.

President Trump has warned Russia of severe financial repercussions if it does not agree to the proposed ceasefire in Ukraine. While US negotiators are en route to Russia, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy remains skeptical. Trump remains hopeful for a diplomatic resolution, while Vice President Vance and other key officials continue discussions with Russia to finalize the ceasefire plan.

Astronaut Sunita Williams has been stranded in space since June 6 due to a technical fault in the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Attempts to bring her back with SpaceX's Crew 10 mission were unsuccessful. Williams, who misses her family, especially her pet, is facing mental and physical challenges while awaiting a safe return.

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports restored the Wrestling Federation of India's recognition, lifting its suspension. Former WFI President, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh shared his views on the decision. The suspension was initially imposed due to procedural lapses and accusations of sexual harassment against Singh, but has now been lifted to benefit the sport and its athletes.

Holika Dahan, a significant Hindu festival, will be observed on March 13, 2025. The festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and includes specific rituals. The auspicious time for the rituals begins after Bhadra Kaal and continues into Pradosh Kaal. Essential materials and mantras are also suggested for a spiritually fulfilling celebration.

Former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda downplayed BJP's victory in the municipal elections, noting that the party has won before. Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini commended local body's role in achieving PM Modi's vision. BJP secured nine mayoral posts, except in Manesar. In Faridabad, Mayor-elect Parveen Joshi pledged to address local issues.

Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lander successfully touched down on the moon, deploying experiments like the LISTER drill and NASA's Lunar Magnetotelluric Sounder. The lander will conclude its mission on March 16, after achieving its objectives and capturing images to study lunar dust at sunset.

A British national was allegedly raped and molested at a hotel in South West Delhi's Mahipalpur, leading to the arrest of a man and a housekeeping staff member. The woman, who met the accused through social media and arrived in India earlier this month, reported the incident to the police.

A Sydney District Court jury acquitted former Australia Test cricketer Stuart MacGill of involvement in a significant commercial drug deal but convicted him on a lesser charge tied to drug supply. Despite arranging a meeting, MacGill claimed he was unaware of the cocaine transaction arranged by his supplier and brother-in-law.

Ranya Rao, a Kannada film starlet, is under investigation for her alleged involvement in a Rs 12.56 crore gold smuggling case, using VIP services at the Bengaluru airport. Her stepfather, a senior police officer, is also being scrutinized for his role in the scandal.

Yellowstone National Park, renowned for its geothermal features, poses severe dangers in restricted areas. The tragic death of Colin Scott, who fell into a boiling acidic hot spring while filming, underscores the lethal risks of ignoring warnings. Despite posted signs, some visitors venture off trails, risking severe injuries or fatalities. Authorities urge adherence to the park's safety guidelines.

The West Bengal government has banned Holi celebrations at Sonajhuri Haat in Santiniketan due to concerns over potential damage to the area's greenery. Authorities have placed banners advising visitors not to park vehicles or celebrate Holi there, citing its proximity to Visva Bharati University, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Stock market today: BSE Sensex and Nifty50, the Indian equity benchmark indices, opened in green on Thursday. While BSE Sensex was above 74,100, Nifty50 was near 22,500.