Times of India

Two Indian seafarers remain missing after a drone attack on a merchant ship. Intense search operations have yielded no sign of the missing sailors. The government informed the Supreme Court about the grim situation. The court directed facilitation of maritime insurance payments for the families. This ensures support for the affected families during this difficult time.

Air India has announced a significant pay rise for pilots, ranging from eight to fifteen percent, with commanders seeing the most substantial hikes. In a strategic move to resolve fleet shortages and improve career advancement opportunities, first officers will gain command upgrades at Air India Express first. Moreover, the airline plans to resume its international flight services next month, marking a return to normal operations.

A recent study advocates for the removal of prohibition in Bihar to foster state growth and enhance capital spending. It posits that banning alcohol hasn't curbed crime rates but instead has spurred illicit activities. By abolishing the prohibition, the state could potentially enjoy a tax revenue boost of 14 to 15 percent.

Supreme Court has replaced two special judges hearing coal scam cases in Delhi. The Delhi High Court requested their transfer for other judicial responsibilities. Judges Sunena Sharma and Dheeraj Mor were moved after serving for varying durations. Virender Kumar Kharta and Ajay Garg will now preside over these important cases. Both transferred judges have been attached to the principal district and sessions judge office.

A Thai woman who moved to the United States after marrying an American man has gone viral after sharing her experience of living in the country. After three years in the US, she says she wants to return to Thailand, claiming that the reality of American life was very different from what she had expected.

In the first quarter of the year, India's crude oil import bill surged by twenty-six percent compared to last year, reaching forty-nine billion dollars, up from thirty-nine billion. Despite an eighteen percent drop in import volumes, rising oil prices, fueled by ongoing conflicts, significantly impacted costs. Russia emerged as India's primary crude supplier, contributing over forty percent, and refiners incurred substantial war-risk premiums to ensure a reliable energy supply.

The Centre informed the Supreme Court about the manipulation of audio recordings, with forensic analyses revealing several modifications. The court has instructed that the most recent forensic report be provided to the Kuki Organisation, which is pursuing an inquiry into audio clips that allegedly implicate Biren Singh. Furthermore, the Supreme Court mandated that copies of the report be distributed to both involved parties.

A parliamentary committee proposed an integrated security framework for Jammu and Kashmir's tourist spots. This includes comprehensive CCTV coverage and centralized monitoring facilities for enhanced safety. Clear inter-agency standard operating procedures are also recommended before peak tourist seasons. These suggestions follow a terror attack and a committee visit to assess security arrangements. The committee noted sustained growth in tourist arrivals due to improved security and infrastructure.

India has taken a decisive step by officially naming twenty-seven sites in Arunachal Pradesh on its maps, a move designed to clarify territorial boundaries and counter Chinese assertions. These sites represent key historical moments related to border conflicts, featuring important mountains and villages along the McMahon Line, helping to raise awareness of India's rightful claims on these significant lands.

A WhatsApp conversation triggered the CBI's probe into the NEET-UG examination scam. Subject matter experts colluded by memorizing exam questions and distributing them to students for a fee. Tracking through Mygate app logs and WhatsApp groups led investigators to the involved students and question setters. Additionally, papers were smuggled to Rajasthan, where coaching centers disseminated the leaked materials. The CBI's chargesheet scrutinizes the organized gang's exploitation of NTA's weaknesses.

In a tragic event, a teenage student opened fire at a Thai school on Friday, claiming five lives. Prior to the school shooting, he also killed his grandparents. Authorities reported 23 individuals were injured during this violent episode. The weapon used was his grandfather's firearm, unleashing a barrage of shots. This incident represents Thailand's most devastating mass killing in nearly four years.

The government is set to expedite the Foreign Contributions Regulation Act, which focuses on managing foreign funding for organizations. In contrast to criticism from a US Congressman regarding proposed changes, the administration remains resolute. Home Minister Amit Shah has met with church leaders to resolve their issues. The Bill's discussion and possible approval in Parliament are imminent.

The United States sanctioned Dubai-based Shelbit for processing millions for Iran's state entities. This action targets sanctions evasion through cryptocurrency networks, as announced by the Treasury Department. Shelbit allegedly facilitated transactions for Iran's central bank and the IRGC. The exchange denied all allegations and stated operations ceased in January 2026. Dubai's regulator also previously found Shelbit violated anti-money laundering rules.

Minnesota solar farms seeded with native plants tripled insect abundance. Native bees increased twentyfold, and more bird species were observed. Taller solar panel arrays allow more native species to grow underneath. Native prairie habitat costs less than gravel over the solar farm's life. Most American solar farms currently lack documented pollinator habitat.

Tragically, Aaban Ahmed, the son of Atiq Ahmed, lost his life in a devastating road accident on Thursday. While his vehicle was found to contain personal belongings, including books by Fyodor Dostoevsky and Marjan Kamali, police clarified that these items were unrelated to the circumstances of the crash. The severe injuries Aaban suffered ultimately led to his untimely passing, while his associate Sonu remains in critical condition following the collision.

Family, friends and colleagues gathered in Mumbai to remember veteran actor Pradeep Rawat, as his son Vikramaditya Rawat paid an emotional tribute and promised to carry forward his father's legacy. Speaking to ANI during the prayer meet, Pradeep Rawat's son, Vikramaditya Rawat, became emotional while remembering his father, describing him as a man of "honour and respect."

Omar Abdullah, J&K chief minister, labeled the Iltija Mufti incident a contrived event, alleging that agencies are working to bolster the PDP's tarnished political standing. Iltija Mufti faced interrogation regarding an alleged attack on a police officer, asserting that she experienced rough treatment by police during a protest. She emphasised that her struggles represent the desires of all Kashmiris, rather than being a personal crusade.

Authorities are on the hunt for Lashkar commander Mohammad Lateef Bhat throughout Kashmir and Jammu, offering a significant cash reward for information that can lead to his capture. Bhat has been linked to the targeted murders of a police officer and two migrants. In a separate incident, an SUV attempted to run over officers at a Ramban checkpoint, resulting in one arrest after the vehicle was seized.

California scientists developed digital tools to map fire damage in the Mojave National Preserve. These new software programs help park managers focus restoration work on vulnerable desert plants. The tools assist in assessing post-fire conditions and developing recovery plans for affected areas. Scenario modeling directs limited conservation resources to high-elevation climate refugia for Joshua trees. This technology aims to improve the chances of survival for these iconic desert plants.