Times of India

The Supreme Court has struck down a provision in the Social Security Code 2020 that limited maternity leave for adoptive mothers. The court declared the provision irrational, stating adoptive children are no different from biological ones. Consequently, adoptive mothers are now entitled to 12 weeks of maternity leave, irrespective of the child's age at adoption.

As IPL 2026 nears, a surprising fact emerges: several top run-scorers have never won the Orange Cap. Legends like Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, AB de Villiers, Ajinkya Rahane, and MS Dhoni, despite their high rankings and impactful careers, have surprisingly never finished a season as the leading run-scorer.

Suryakumar Yadav credits his wife Devisha's "brutally honest" question in 2018 as the catalyst for his international cricket career. Her direct inquiry about his aspirations pushed him to implement disciplined lifestyle changes, leading to consistent performances and his eventual India debut. Devisha's support extended beyond cricket, focusing on mindset and humility.

US President Trump expressed shock at Iran's expanded strikes across the Middle East, despite US intelligence anticipating such retaliation. The conflict, now in its third week, has seen Iranian attacks on US positions and allied infrastructure, disrupting vital shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz. Concerns are mounting over the war's justification and its escalating regional impact.

The Russian-made S-300, first deployed in the late 1970s, is a long-range surface-to-air missile system designed to intercept aircraft, drones and incoming cruise or ballistic missiles. Over decades, it has earned a reputation as a robust shield, used by countries from Russia and Ukraine to Iran and Nato members like Greece. Its architecture relies on powerful radars such as the 30N6E2 "Tombstone" to track targets and guide interceptor missiles with high precision.

Captain Suryakumar Yadav distinguished India's T20 World Cup victories, noting the 2024 team's "experienced enthusiasm" and the 2026 squad's "fiery passion of youth." While both teams possessed skill, the 2024 side leveraged seasoned players like Rohit and Kohli, whereas the 2026 unit thrived on youthful intensity and hunger, especially winning on home soil.

Ishan Kishan’s rise as a leadership contender stems from his strong domestic captaincy record, ability to manage young players, and tactical awareness as a wicketkeeper. His recent international form, successfully leading Jharkhand to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title, has strengthened his case, helping him get the vote of approval from the SRH management.

The LPG tanker Nanda Devi arrived in Gujarat carrying 46,500 metric tonnes of LPG, set for ship-to-ship transfer. This marks the second successful LPG carrier navigating the Strait of Hormuz amid global tensions. The shipment will help manage India's LPG supply pressures.

A woman died after falling into a drain when an old iron footbridge collapsed in north Delhi’s Roop Nagar, police said.

US President Trump expressed disappointment as key allies like Germany and Italy refused to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. Citing legal limits and lack of mandates, these nations declined. Trump, however, asserted US strength, suggesting the request was partly a test of allied commitment amid escalating regional conflict and Iran's closure of the vital waterway.

A cooking gas crunch, stemming from the West Asia conflict, has forced major Indian IT firms like Infosys, TCS, and Cognizant to drastically cut canteen services. Employees are now compelled to bring packed lunches, impacting thousands who rely on office cafeterias, especially those in PGs and hostels with limited options.

Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, conducting strikes on Afghan Taliban military installations in Kabul and Nangarhar Province. The operation Pakistan said targeted technical support facilities, ammunition storage, and drone assembly workshops, with Pakistan stating the action followed unprovoked firing. Afghan authorities have accused Islamabad of hitting a hospital resulting in death of over 400 civilians.

Following India's T20 World Cup triumph, Sanju Samson reflects on the spiritual victory and overcoming self-doubt, highlighting a crucial innings against the West Indies. He also shares an emotional moment with coach Gautam Gambhir and looks forward to his new chapter with Chennai Super Kings, aiming to inspire young cricketers.

US President Donald Trump has expressed significant doubt regarding the health and even the survival of Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. Citing conflicting reports of severe injuries, including a lost leg and disfigurement, Trump noted the unusual lack of public confirmation of Khamenei's well-being, fueling widespread speculation about his condition and whereabouts.

Young prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 14, is navigating the pressures of IPL stardom, focusing on his game amidst rising popularity. His career highlight remains a match-defining 175 off 80 balls in the 2026 U-19 World Cup final, a performance that secured India's sixth title and is cherished above his IPL century.

As Ramadan 2026 concludes, Eid-ul-Fitr approaches with a blend of spiritual reflection and joyous celebration. Expected around March 20-21, the festival offers a chance to reset, mend relationships, and reconnect with loved ones. The article provides a collection of heartfelt wishes for family, friends, and partners to spread love and cheer during this special occasion.