Times of India

Vicky Kaushal's film 'Chhaava' continues to dominate the box office, crossing Rs. 412.50 crore in India as of Day 15. With significant weekend and holiday boosts, the film is poised to surpass 'Baahubali: The Beginning' soon. Current standings place 'Chhaava' ahead of '2.0', 'Salaar: Cease Fire - Part 1', and 'Avatar: The Way of Water'.

Ahead of India's crucial ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash against New Zealand, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate addressed the team’s wicketkeeping choice between KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. While Rahul has performed well in key moments, ten Doeschate emphasised the importance of keeping Pant ready. Rahul admitted to feeling the pressure with Pant waiting in the wings.

A heated exchange between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy leads to the collapse of a crucial minerals deal. European leaders swiftly support Ukraine, emphasizing continued assistance in its struggle against Russia. Trump's accusations of Zelenskyy's ingratitude exacerbate tensions between Kyiv and Washington.

Ryan ten Doeschate, India's assistant coach, admitted the unexpected reliance on spin in the ICC Champions Trophy, highlighting spin-friendly Dubai pitches and their impact on scoring trends. Emphasising adaptability, he noted competitive scores around 280-290. Ryan also spoke on gaining player trust and consistent communication within the coaching team led by Gautam Gambhir.

February saw India's warmest temperatures since 1901, and March-May is predicted to be warmer than usual with increased heatwave days, particularly affecting winter crops like wheat and rapeseed. Key regions include Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana. Vulnerable populations face significant health risks due to heatwaves. Central and South India recorded notably high temperatures.

The UGC informed the Supreme Court that no suicides were reported from central, state, private, or deemed universities and colleges. However, petitioners, whose children died by suicide, claim that IITs, IIMs, and national law universities did not provide data. An expert committee has submitted draft regulations to promote equity in higher educational institutions.

In a heated Oval Office confrontation, US President Trump and Vice President Vance accused Ukrainian President Zelenskyy of ingratitude for US support against Russia. The meeting unraveled as Zelenskyy discussed Putin's stance publicly, leading to intense criticism from Trump and Vance. Zelenskyy defended his gratitude, but the minerals deal remained unsigned, and a joint press conference was canceled.

India's GNSS-based tolling system on national highways will be delayed until the country has a fully functional satellite navigation system with complete coverage. The decision aims to protect citizen privacy and ensure data security, avoiding reliance on foreign navigational systems. Ongoing trials with alternative methods, like multi-lane free flow mechanism, will continue in the meantime.

Tamil Nadu's Mayiladuthurai district collector faced backlash for suggesting that a three-year-old assault survivor might have provoked the attack. Collector A P Mahabharathi's remarks led to his transfer. He claimed his comment about considering "both sides" was misunderstood. The 16-year-old accused was arrested and charged under the Pocso Act, with the survivor injured while trying to escape.

At least five people, including Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Haqqani, were killed, and 20 injured in a suicide blast at a mosque in Nowshera district, Pakistan. The explosion occurred as people were leaving Friday prayers. Haqqani, head of Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania school, was likely the target. Condemnations came from Pakistan's Prime Minister and President.

Sanjay Bhandari's appeal against extradition to India was successful due to potential risks of extortion, torture, and an unfair trial in Tihar jail. UK high court judges cited concerns over overcrowding, understaffing, and the frequent occurrence of extortion and mistreatment by prison officials.