Times of India

Nasa astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams safely returned to Earth after an unexpected nine-month stay on the ISS due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner crew capsule. They were brought back by SpaceX, which faced its own delays. During their extended mission, they completed crucial experiments and spacewalks, setting records and garnering prayers and support from the American public.

India has responded to Pakistan’s claims about Prime Minister Modi's comments on India-Pakistan relations, citing Pakistan's support for cross-border terrorism as the primary obstacle to regional peace. India reiterated that Pakistan should focus on vacating illegally occupied territories instead of spreading misinformation.

India urged the Netherlands to restrict arms and military technology sales to Pakistan due to its history of sponsoring cross-border terrorism. During a high-level meeting, India highlighted that arming Pakistan undermines regional security and emphasized opportunities for collaboration in shipbuilding, AI, and defense technology research.

Mohammed Nawaz, a 35-year-old cameraperson from the Telugu film industry, died by suicide in Hyderabad due to alleged torture by his wife, Swetha Reddy Thada. Nawaz's mother claimed Swetha abused him, demanded money, and threatened him. The police are investigating the case based on the mother's complaint.

Lok Sabha witnessed chaos after PM Modi's statement on Maha Kumbh, as Rahul Gandhi was denied permission to speak. The opposition protested, leading to adjournment. Rahul supported the PM's statement but noted Modi's omission of homage to stampede victims, criticizing the decision to silence him in the House.

Karnataka's revenue department repossessed 14 acres of contested land in Ramanagara district from Union minister HD Kumaraswamy and his relatives. The action followed a High Court order prompting officials to move swiftly. Kumaraswamy claims the action is politically motivated and insists he purchased the land legally 40 years ago.

Maharashtra's government requires developers and contractors in Mumbai to ensure they do not employ Bangladeshis and to report any presence to the police. This directive is planned for Navi Mumbai next. The state has arrested and deported a historical number of Bangladeshis but faces difficulties due to lack of cooperation from Bengal regarding documents.

The home ministry stated it does not maintain data on fatalities and injuries from the stampede at Maha Kumbh mela, as such incidents fall under state jurisdiction. The ministry shared that religious event management and disaster response are state responsibilities, and no central data is available.

Police in Nagpur allegedly used excessive force while searching for riot suspects, damaging property and detaining locals, some of whom claim they were innocent. Residents reported officers breaking doors, smashing vehicles, and arresting people at random during Ramadan. The police recommended that any evidence of misconduct be reported for action.

US President Donald Trump held a productive call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, agreeing on an immediate ceasefire on strikes in Ukraine. The brief ceasefire is seen as a critical initial move towards broader peace talks, though full ceasefire terms are still under negotiation.

A 15-year-old boy attacked Zonal DCP Niketan Kadam with an axe during riots at Hansapuri, aiming for his neck. Kadam blocked the blow with his hand, sustaining serious injuries. He underwent emergency surgery and is currently recovering. The officer and 11 other personnel were injured while trapped by a mob and subsequently rescued by reinforcements.

Near Delhi Darwaza in Ahmedabad, a driver in a red Mahindra Thar recklessly evaded police by speeding through a restricted, congested area, narrowly missing an officer. The SUV hit multiple vehicles and caused panic among pedestrians. Police are now searching for the driver, urging the public for any information. This incident highlights increasing cases of reckless driving in the region.

India's nuclear programme achieved a major milestone as the Rajasthan Atomic Power Station's seventh unit was connected to the northern grid. With the operation of 25 reactors and 13,100 MW capacity under construction, the indigenous 700 MW PHWR series plays a crucial role in reaching a goal of 100 GW by 2047.

J&K Police's counter intelligence wing has arrested Showkat Ahmad Dar for running a radical social media handle that disseminated extremist content. Dar, who glorified terrorism and incited anti-national sentiments, was previously detained for similar activities, highlighting law enforcement's effort to curb online radicalisation.

The Boston Celtics face the Brooklyn Nets on March 18, with star forward Jayson Tatum's knee injury status questionable. Tatum's 27.1 points per game are crucial, especially with Jaylen Brown out. The Celtics, at 49-19, rely heavily on Tatum's contributions in scoring, rebounds, and three-pointers. The game tips off at 7:30 p.m. ET.

J&K's National Conference government has announced a magisterial probe into the deaths of two Gujjar brothers found in Kulgam after a month-long disappearance. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary stated the government would seek a judicial inquiry as requested by the families of the deceased.