Times of India

Bengaluru's infrastructure issues are unlikely to be resolved in the next few years, admits DK Shivakumar, the city's development minister. With a population of 1.4 crore and 1.1 crore registered vehicles, space and financial constraints remain major challenges. The government plans to standardize road designs and focus on proper planning and coordination among civic agencies.

Joel Embiid's availability for the Philadelphia 76ers' game against the Boston Celtics is crucial as he can provide much-needed control in defense and rebounds. Despite the 76ers' poor season record, Embiid’s presence could challenge the Celtics' strong lineup led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Fans can watch live on TNT, truTV, and MAX.

Devendra Barlewar, a scientist from the Union Ministry of Defence, successfully underwent his third kidney transplant. Struggling with chronic kidney disease and previous failed transplants, his latest kidney came from a deceased donor, marking a rare medical occurrence of housing five kidneys with one functioning.

Saleem Rajput, arrested in 1999 and accused of possessing stolen property, endured a 26-year trial, with over 200 hearings, before being acquitted due to lack of evidence. The false accusations disrupted his life and finances, affecting his family's well-being. The court's recent acquittal brought relief but underscored the high personal cost he paid.

Shubman Gill's unbeaten century (101 not out) and Mohammed Shami's five-wicket haul propelled India to a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their Champions Trophy opener. India reached the target of 229, thanks to an 87-run stand between Gill and KL Rahul, who remained not out at 41. Closer to reaching his eighth ODI hundred, the 25-year-old Indian vice-captain, labelled by his captain Rohit Sharma as a “very, very classy player” in the pre-match presser, flicked Tanzim for a six to deep mid-wicket- a stunning shot indeed.

US President Donald Trump suggested that the Biden administration attempted to influence India's 2024 elections with a $21 million grant, hinting support for the Congress Party. Trump's remarks have energized BJP supporters in India, drawing parallels between Trump and Modi's political adversaries. Historical US interference in Indian politics is also noted.

Delhi's new chief minister, Rekha Gupta, has assigned portfolios to her six cabinet ministers, with a focus on infrastructure and welfare improvements. Key areas include finance, irrigation, education, and women's safety, aligning with the BJP's agenda for a developed Delhi.

China's President Xi Jinping met top private sector entrepreneurs, including Alibaba's Jack Ma, signaling a policy change after strict regulations on the tech sector. This meeting aims to revive the economy and support private enterprises amid competition with the US. Entrepreneurs are looking for tangible policy changes to support growth and investment.

The BJP has a tendency to appoint first-time MLAs to chief ministerial positions in key states they win. Notable examples include Manohar Lal Khattar in Haryana, Bhajan Lal Sharma in Rajasthan, and Rekha Gupta in Delhi. These leaders have often risen through the ranks of the RSS and BJP, showcasing grassroots engagement and strategic capabilities.

Axar Patel's hopes of securing a hat-trick in India's opening match of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 against Bangladesh were thwarted by a dropped catch from skipper Rohit Sharma. Axar had dismantled Bangladesh's batting lineup with two wickets in consecutive deliveries, but Rohit missed the crucial catch to seal the hat-trick, resulting in a missed opportunity.

Arjun Kapoor reflects on relationships post his breakup with Malaika Arora, while comedian Harsh Gujral deletes videos amidst controversy. Aadar Jain faces backlash for his remarks on past relationships, and Jaya Bachchan wins hearts with her warm interaction at Jain's mehendi ceremony.

Mohammed Shami on Thursday became the fastest to reach 200 ODI wickets in 5,126 deliveries during the Champions Trophy opener against Bangladesh. He surpassed Mitchell Starc's record. Shami also became the highest wicket-taker for India in ICC limited-overs competitions, with 74 dismissals across ICC events. He broke Zaheer Khan's record of 71 wickets.

Manipur governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has given residents a seven-day ultimatum to surrender illegally held weapons. Citing prolonged violence and the imposition of President's Rule, Bhalla urged the return of arms to restore peace and normalcy in the state. The ultimatum comes amid ongoing security operations and arrests of militants.

Delhi-Mumbai Expressway: The completion of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway has been delayed by two years due to slow progress in Gujarat sections. Union minister Nitin Gadkari has urged acceleration in construction following delays caused by land acquisition and technical issues.

Salman Rushdie criticized Elon Musk for allegedly misusing the notion of free speech by fostering right-wing extremism on X. Rushdie recounted a past meeting with Musk, expressing a desire for Musk's Mars colonization plans to materialize soon. He also condemned growing anti-immigrant sentiments globally.

Axar Patel narrowly missed a hat-trick in India's ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Bangladesh, with Rohit Sharma dropping a critical catch. Patel took two consecutive wickets, leaving Bangladesh struggling, but lost the hat-trick opportunity. Despite the disappointment, Patel maintained composure, delivering a tight spell and further weakening Bangladesh’s position.

The BJP has intensified its attack on Congress after Donald Trump claimed that India's 2024 elections were influenced by external forces. PM Modi's previous warnings about foreign interference and the need to avoid a weak government were highlighted. Trump also criticized the US allocation of $21 million for voter turnout efforts in India, questioning its purpose and potential implications.