Times of India

A thermal image from Area 51 fuels speculation about the US Air Force's next-gen stealth fighter, the Boeing F-47. Globally, nations like China and European blocs are also racing ahead with their own advanced fighter programs. These cutting-edge aircraft will feature all-aspect stealth, AI integration, and manned-unmanned teaming, promising a new era of air dominance.

AIADMK faces continued exodus as former ministers Udumalai K Radhakrishnan, Kadambur C Raju, and M C Sampath defect to the ruling TVK. This move, along with their supporters, further weakens the AIADMK's organizational strength in key regions. More opposition leaders are anticipated to join TVK soon.

In a significant breakthrough, former Trinamool Congress MLA Saokat Molla has been pinpointed as a pivotal conspirator in the Bhangar bomb explosion case, according to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

The Reserve Bank of India maintained its repo rate at 5.25%, bringing stability to the real estate sector. This steady policy is boosting buyer confidence and aiding developers' financial planning. Experts believe the unchanged stance supports housing demand and affordability, fostering a predictable environment for long-term investments amidst economic uncertainties.

India is boosting its submarine fleet with indigenous Project-76 submarines, aiming to counter a significant shortfall. Despite past delays, the Navy is progressing with both conventional and nuclear submarine programs. The new AIP-equipped submarines promise enhanced underwater endurance, crucial for national security and power projection in the Indo-Pacific region.

Rishabh Pant achieved a significant milestone, becoming the third Indian wicketkeeper to play 50 Test matches. At 28, he joins legends Dhoni and Kirmani. Despite recent career challenges, Pant's Test record remains exceptional, marked by match-winning performances and a strong batting average. This achievement underscores his enduring value in the longest format of the game.

Chhattisgarh has reported three suspected Ebola cases involving foreign nationals quarantined in Durg as a precautionary measure. State health minister assures preparedness, with hospitals and facilities on alert. This heightened vigilance follows WHO's classification of outbreaks in Uganda and DRC as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Anurag Kashyap's crime thriller 'Bandar', starring Bobby Deol, is facing a difficult start at the box office on Day 2 of its release. After a Day 1 net of Rs 0.50 crore across 1,365 shows, the dramatic drop in screen count and footfall signals an uphill battle for the TIFF-premiered thriller, even as the film carries strong critical credentials and a compelling subject matter.

U.S. Representative Chip Roy has introduced the "American White-Collar Worker Jobs Act of 2026" to reform the H-1B visa program. The bill aims to end H-1B visas as a path to permanent residency and eliminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. It seeks to prioritize American STEM professionals by enforcing stricter wage standards and preventing displacement of U.S. workers.

In an intriguing development, a CNN report has surfaced, suggesting that Israel has allegedly set up a series of military outposts encircling Iran. These installations reportedly include specialized forces and drone contingents positioned near Azerbaijan's border.

A potential peace deal between the US and Iran hinges on the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets, according to military advisor Mohsen Rezaei. He stated that the ball is in President Trump's court to break the negotiation deadlock, proposing the funds as a test of trust. Rezaei also warned of expanded military responses if attacked again.

In a heartwarming video, actress Neelam Kothari took her followers on a nostalgic tour of 'Le Chalet,' her family's beloved bungalow in Lonavala that's been standing for three decades. With its charming two-storey design, whitewashed walls, rustic wooden details, and timeless furnishings, this vintage gem is a tribute to her parents' vision.

India's investor base has reached a new peak with over 26 crore unique trading accounts on the NSE. The exchange added the latest crore accounts in under four months, highlighting rapid growth beyond major financial hubs. This surge is fueled by digitalization, simpler KYC, and positive market performance, with individual investors now holding a significant market share.

Uttarakhand is taking significant steps to support the families of deceased soldiers and war-disabled veterans through its newly announced Housing Assistance Grant. Providing a substantial one-time grant of Rs 2 lakh, this program is designed to aid in the construction or repair of homes, strengthening housing stability for these families.

The Cockroach Janta Party protested at Jantar Mantar, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the NEET 2026 paper leak and CBSE's OSM system issues. Led by founder Abhijeet Dipke, the demonstration, granted police permission, highlights ongoing concerns about examination integrity. The CBI is investigating, with arrests made, as student groups and political leaders voice discontent

R Praggnanandhaa has made history, becoming the first Indian to clinch the prestigious Norway Chess title. He secured the championship with a stunning final-round victory over Vincent Keymer, overcoming a deficit to claim the crown. This remarkable win earns him 700,000 Norwegian Kroner, approximately Rs 70.5 lakh.

The Russian president said Kremlin's cooperation with India "is not subject to the political environment" and that Moscow would stand "true to commitments given to our partners, especially partners like India". "Our cooperation with India, just like with all other partners of ours, is not subject to the political environment. We can't be dictated to not deliver that to India. Nobody can dictate to us and nobody would even try to do that... We will always stand true to commitments given to our partners, especially partners like India," he further said.

Trinamool Congress faces a potential split in its parliamentary party following internal dissent, primarily attributed to Abhishek Banerjee's growing influence. Mamata Banerjee has restructured party leadership, appointing new national secretaries and state unit president, in an effort to consolidate control amidst the brewing crisis.

Delhi Police is investigating Lovkesh Bajaj, linked to a deadly Hauz Rani fire, for suspected involvement in an international human trafficking racket. He allegedly used medical tourism as a front to smuggle foreigners into India, having previously been arrested for facilitating forged documents for a Bangladeshi family.