Times of India

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has revealed that any potential changes to the NEET UG 2025 exam pattern are pending a report from a High-Powered Expert Committee, as directed by the Supreme Court. This information surfaced following an RTI filed by Dr. Vivek Pandey, who sought minutes from meetings discussing the exam changes. The committee’s report is expected soon, leaving NEET aspirants awaiting updates. Recent changes to the JEE Main 2025 pattern have added to the anticipation.

The Delhi High Court issued notices to the Centre and private entities regarding a plea to regulate concert ticket resales. The petition cites recent high-profile events where tickets were resold at inflated prices, violating consumer protection rules. It calls for a legal framework to curb black-marketing and protect consumers, with responses due by February 2025.

Silver vs gold: Silver has outperformed traditional equities, with a 33.65% rise since early 2024 and a 12.5% gain in the past month. Analysts suggest it as a strong diversification option due to growing industrial demand and potential Fed rate cuts.

Marriage rituals worldwide vary widely, from napping dishes in Germany symbolizing teamwork to Scotland's messy 'blackening the bride' tradition. Indian weddings often include a playful ritual of stealing the groom's shoes. Some customs, like bride kidnapping in Kyrgyzstan and Bihar, are thankfully now illegal, emphasizing diverse ways cultures celebrate marriage.

A Bengaluru-based director lost Rs 6.54 crore in a share trading scam after being deceived by fraudsters promising 1500% returns. The victim transferred money over two months via a fake app, realizing the fraud only when asked for additional fees. Police have initiated an investigation, advising caution in unsolicited investment offers.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces a significant internal challenge as fellow party members urged him to consider resignation during a private Liberal caucus meeting. A critical document and a letter signed by two dozen MPs highlight growing concerns over the party's declining poll numbers and upcoming election prospects.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the Indo-Tibetan Border Police on its 63rd Raising Day, praising their valour and dedication in protecting the nation under harsh conditions. Union ministers Amit Shah, Kiren Rijiju, and Dharmendra Pradhan also lauded the ITBP's bravery and sacrifice. The Force reiterated its commitment to national security, honouring the personnel who serve in the most challenging terrains.

England’s cricket team demonstrated exceptional teamwork by rearranging chairs after their team photo ahead of the third Test against Pakistan. With the series tied 1-1, England aims to regain momentum despite facing spin challenges. Captain Ben Stokes emphasizes strategic adaptations, while Pakistan remains confident with an unchanged XI. Both teams seek a crucial victory on a variable Rawalpindi pitch.

In Greater Noida, police arrested two men after discovering a property dealer's body in a burnt SUV. Sanjay Yadav, identified through the vehicle's registration, was allegedly killed for his jewelry by Vishal Rajput and Jeet Chaudhary, who strangled him and set the car on fire.

In Pune's Pimpri Chinchwad township, a makeshift water tank collapsed in the Bhosari area, killing three labourers and injuring seven others. The incident occurred while the labourers were bathing under the tank, which reportedly exploded due to water pressure, trapping and fatally wounding some of the workers.

After a remarkable 150 in Bengaluru, Sarfaraz Khan was included in the playing XI for the second Test in Pune. His performance under pressure led India's comeback, placing him over KL Rahul. Sarfaraz's consistent domestic cricket success makes him a strong contender for a permanent middle-order spot in India's Test squad.

Shubam Kumar, a labourer from Uttar Pradesh, was shot by terrorists in Pulwama's Tral area, sustaining injuries to his arm. This attack is the third in a week targeting non-local labourers in Kashmir, following fatal attacks in Ganderbal and Shopian districts. Kumar is receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.

During a rally in Duluth, Donald Trump humorously asked for an immigration chart to be removed so he could see himself, remarking on his hair. Kamala Harris’ campaign mocked him as lost and confused. Former independent candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr joined Trump, while Harris labeled Trump a fascist at a CNN town hall.

Ahead of the election, VP Kamala Harris held a town hall in Pennsylvania, addressing pivotal issues such as border security, the economy, abortion rights, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. She outlined her distinct policy priorities and criticised Donald Trump, emphasising a new approach if she assumes the presidency.

Canadian MP Chandra Arya acknowledges the issue of Khalistani extremism, citing personal experiences and calling for serious action from law enforcement. Tensions between Canada and India have escalated over allegations of Indian involvement in the death of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which India refutes.

Stock market today: Indian equity benchmark indices, BSE Sensex and Nifty50, opened flat in trade on Thursday. While BSE Sensex was around 80,150, Nifty50 was above 24,400.

India made significant changes for the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, bringing in Akash Deep, Washington Sundar, and Shubman Gill. New Zealand, having won the first Test in Bengaluru, chose to bat first. Both teams made strategic adjustments due to injuries and pitch conditions, aiming for better performances in Pune.

India seamer Harshit Rana will leave the Test set-up to play for Delhi in the Ranji Trophy against Assam at Arun Jaitley Stadium. With Navdeep Saini in the India A squad, Rana will boost Delhi's pace attack. Other roster changes include Dhruv Kaushik's injury replacement and the addition of fit-again seamer Money Grewal.

Vivek Ramaswamy condemns Kamala Harris for comparing Trump to Hitler, calling it reckless and warning it could incite violence. This follows Harris's remarks about Trump's dangerous rhetoric and alleged admiration for Hitler, urging the need for apologies 13 days before the election.