Times of India

US forces intercepted a floating refuelling station in the Eastern Pacific on September 16. This vessel allegedly supported illicit drug trafficking operations for Ecuador's Los Choneros organization. US forces removed the crew and transferred them to Ecuadorian authorities after clearing the vessel. The refuelling station was then sunk by US forces following the operation. This action aimed to disrupt logistical networks supporting drug trafficking in the Western Hemisphere.

A driver allegedly prescribed medicines to patients at a Kanpur government hospital. This incident occurred while the emergency medical officer was attending a court hearing. Hospital authorities have sought an explanation from the doctor regarding the driver's actions. The doctor acknowledged his driver wrote prescriptions and stated he removed him for acting independently. Action will be taken if the doctor fails to provide a satisfactory explanation.

At a bustling leather factory, Vishwakarma Puja was celebrated with Muslim workers paying tribute to the Hindu deity. Craftsmen paused their daily tasks to create stunning decorations, while a delicious biryani lunch from a local Park Street eatery added flavor to the festivities. Eschewing the customary Arandhan cooking restrictions of the day, this event beautifully illustrated the spirit of cultural unity among its participants.

The US Congress has passed legislation that could impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods from countries buying Russian energy, sending President Donald Trump a sanctions package aimed at reducing Moscow's revenues and divided Democrats over the scope of his trade powers. The House of Representatives approved the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by 262-159 on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi proudly announced the commencement of the second phase in India's semiconductor saga, marking the shift from capability development to actual commercial chip production. This milestone underscores the increasing global confidence in India's semiconductor landscape. The event also emphasizes nurturing young talent poised to thrive in this advanced sector, alongside the crucial expansion of infrastructure supporting this burgeoning manufacturing ecosystem.

Pakistan batter Mohammad Rizwan has moved the Lahore High Court against summons issued by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). Rizwan, questioned after Pakistan’s Test series loss in England, has challenged the investigation and the agency’s jurisdiction. The case comes amid a separate PCB inquiry into player conduct and major squad changes following Pakistan’s poor England tour.

The Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya are at risk of disruption due to an impending tropical storm. Organisers are on high alert, as ongoing heavy rain has already led to the suspension and rescheduling of numerous events. In an unfortunate turn for China's cricket team, their campaign ended without any play taking place, all thanks to the relentless wet conditions.

Disha Salian's father has sent a defamation notice seeking Rs 500 crore compensation. The notice targets Aaditya Thackeray and Anil Deshmukh for their statements. Thackeray denied any acquaintance with Salian and called it a false campaign. The CBI recently registered an FIR concerning Salian's death in 2020. The FIR names several individuals including Thackeray and Rhea Chakraborty.

A hallmarked article carries three key markings: the BIS logo, the karat or millesimal fineness and a six-digit alphanumeric Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number.

France opened their Chess Olympiad campaign with a 4-0 win over Tunisia, but top board Maxime Vachier-Lagrave remains realistic about his team’s chances. In an exclusive interaction, MVL named USA, India, China and Uzbekistan as the favourites. The French star also reflected on his three-decade chess journey, handling setbacks, his love for the game and his recent time in India.

China's cricket journey in the Asian Games came to an unforeseen halt, as their quarter-final clash with Bangladesh was called off due to a soaked outfield. Consequently, Bangladesh moved forward to the semi-finals, taking advantage of their superior international ranking. This marked a sudden end to China's third participation in the Asian Games cricket event, a situation governed by tournament rules favouring the higher-ranked team.

An FIR was registered against a former BJP MLA and a dismissed policeman. The two men allegedly gang-raped a 22-year-old married woman at knifepoint. The victim approached the MLA for help with a domestic dispute, which led to the incident. She was taken to a farmhouse and assaulted after being forced to consume alcohol. Police are investigating the case and have registered charges including gang rape and criminal intimidation.

After losing his job just weeks prior to becoming a father, Pratik Butani found an unexpected blessing in the time spent with his wife and newborn son. This period of reflection allowed him to dive into personal projects and cherish family moments, leading to profound lessons in perspective and gratitude. He now embraces this appreciation as he prepares for his next professional chapter.

Yuva Sena activists released stray dogs inside the Niphad Nagar Panchayat office. They protested the civic body's failure to control the growing stray dog population. Protesters alleged multiple dog-bite incidents and increased fear among residents. They demanded effective measures like sterilization and dog-catching squads. The Chief Officer assured a review and further steps to address the issue.

The fee on larger UPI merchant payments is modest. Its size is not what should worry us.