Times of India

With just two sleeps until the Champions Trophy final, the Dubai ground staff are preparing the playing square diligently. Despite the pitch being previously used, the ECB ensures a two-week rest period for pitches. The hot weather is influencing pitch conditions, with ground staff taking measures to protect it under covers, anticipating slower behavior for the title clash.

India signed a $248 million contract with Russia for procuring 1,000 HP engines to upgrade the T-72 tanks, enhancing their mobility and offensive capability. The deal includes technology transfer for licensed production at the Heavy Vehicles Factory in Avadi, supporting India's 'Make in India' initiative.

US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging negotiations for a nuclear deal. Trump emphasized that it would benefit Iran and warned of severe consequences if Iran continued its nuclear program. Diplomatic efforts remain tense, especially after the US withdrew from the 2018 nuclear deal and reinstated sanctions.

Comedian Kunal Kamra mocked Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal's new 'Kya Chal Raha Hai?' initiative on social media.

The National Savings Certificate (NSC) and bank tax-saving Fixed Deposits (FDs) are popular investment options offering guaranteed returns and tax benefits under Section 80C. NSC provides an annual interest rate of 7.7% with yearly compounding, while leading banks offer FDs with rates between 6.5% and 8% annually.

Jason Gillespie refuted Sunil Gavaskar's claim that an Indian B team could defeat Pakistan, calling it nonsense. Gillespie emphasised that Pakistan has the talent but needs consistent selection and patience from management. He criticised Pakistan's squad choices and short-term coaching appointments, urging the PCB to implement long-term plans for better results.

A Jaguar fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed in Ambala, Haryana, following a system malfunction after a routine training sortie from Ambala airbase. The pilot safely ejected and maneuvered the aircraft away from populated areas. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the incident. More details are awaited on the matter.

Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal discussed the company's performance in quick commerce and claimed Zepto burns more cash. However, Zepto CEO Aadit Palicha countered, labeling Goyal's statement as inaccurate and assuring transparency through their financial filings, affirming commitment to the Indian startup ecosystem.

The Karnataka High Court cancelled the Enforcement Directorate summons for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's wife Parvathi and Minister BS Suresh in the Mysore Urban Development Authority land allotment scam. Parvathi allegedly profited from illegal land allotment valued at Rs 56 crore in central Mysuru. She returned the 14 sites she received, denying any admission of guilt.

The Indian ministry of external affairs has expressed deep concern over the security breach involving EAM S Jaishankar's convoy in London, stressing the need for the UK to take action against those responsible. The UK Foreign Office condemned the incident, underscoring a commitment to diplomatic security.

Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin is rallying against the BJP-led NDA government over delimitation and the National Education Policy (NEP). Stalin aims to protect Lok Sabha representation of southern states and opposes the 'three-language formula,' accusing the Centre of imposing Hindi. Support and opposition from various political allies are creating significant debate.

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi emphasized that the boundary issue between India and China should not define their bilateral relations. During a press conference, he highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and stressed that both nations have the wisdom to address differences while fostering cooperation and partnership.

China's foreign minister Wang Yi criticizes the US for imposing arbitrary tariffs despite China's efforts to curb fentanyl exports. He warns that such actions disrupt global stability and mutual trust. Wang emphasizes China's strong ties with Russia and calls for greater representation of developing nations in global governance, highlighting China's role as a stabilizing force.

Astrologer Greenstone Lobo predicts that Rohit Sharma’s Indian team will win the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand. Lobo cites Rohit’s strong horoscope and remaining karmic quota, despite past setbacks, as key factors favoring India’s victory. He highlights potent planetary alignments among Indian players as an advantage, pointing towards a triumphant outcome.

Astronauts age slightly slower in space due to microgravity and time dilation, as observed with Sunita Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore. NASA studies indicate potential health impacts upon their return, including muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and cognitive changes. Williams and Wilmore are expected to return to Earth in late March 2025.

US President Donald Trump blamed President Joe Biden for the prolonged stay of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore aboard the ISS due to technical failures. Trump has asked Elon Musk to facilitate their return, with a mission possibly launching in two weeks to bring them back to Earth.

Larry Page, Google's co-founder, is working on Dynatomics, an AI startup aimed at revolutionising product manufacturing. Led by Chris Anderson, the former CTO of Kittyhawk, the venture focuses on using AI to optimise design renderings for manufacturing, potentially transforming the industry with efficient and precise product creation.