Times of India

US secretary of state Antony Blinken meets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging capitalisation on Hamas leader Yahaya Sinwar's death for a Gaza ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid. Blinken emphasises the need for lasting security and clarifies Israel's intentions amid ongoing conflict and dire humanitarian conditions in northern Gaza.

The Uttar Pradesh government argued before the Supreme Court to retain madrassas and reform their education system, challenging Allahabad High Court’s verdict against the UP Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004. The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of mainstreaming madrassa education and incorporating subjects like math and science.

During his first bilateral meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, PM Narendra Modi expressed concerns over the escalating West Asia conflict and stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. According to an Indian readout, Modi also emphasised on protection of civilians and the role of diplomacy in resolving the conflict.

India confirms a bilateral meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Brics summit in Russia. This follows a recent agreement on LAC patrolling, aiming to return to the situation in 2020. Both nations indicate readiness to implement the solution efficiently.

Zepto is bolstering its domestic shareholding by involving notable Indian family offices, including those of Manipal group chief Ranjan Pai and Mankind Pharma brothers. Recently valued at $5 billion, Zepto is also moving its parent company to India, aiming to boost government confidence and align with FDI regulations for a favorable market stance.

Tech Mahindra added 6,653 employees in Q2 FY25, leading among top Indian IT firms with prominent hirings of over 2,000 freshers. Total headcount now stands at 154,273. The company reported a net profit increase of 153.1% year-on-year and revenue growth of 3.5%, surpassing market expectations. Attrition rates slightly rose.

Canadian MPs held an emergency debate on foreign interference, alleging the Indian government’s involvement in crimes against Canadian Sikhs. Calls were made for the RSS to be designated a terrorist organization, sanctions against India, and stricter measures on entry for BJP officials linked to violence.

Amaravati Drone Show in Vijayawada set five Guinness world records during the National Drone Summit with 5,500 drones. The event saw remarkable formations and displays, with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Union Minister Rammohan Naidu inaugurating it. Alongside, a drone hackathon awarded winners, highlighting the state's commitment to technological advancement.

Five people were killed and several injured in a shooting at a football match in Jamaica, according to police. The shooting occurred in the capital of Kingston late on Monday during a friendly game, police told reporters.

During a meeting at the BRICS Summit, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasised India's potential role in mitigating Middle East tensions, while PM Narendra Modi reiterated the importance of dialogue and civilian protection. Discussions also included Afghanistan's stability and continued humanitarian aid.

Six of Sean "Diddy" Comb's children declared their father's innocence on social media, following accusations of sex trafficking and racketeering. They labeled the allegations as baseless. Diddy, who pleaded not guilty, remains in jail awaiting trial next year. Several high-profile associates have also been implicated.

Three gunmen, involved in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, practiced shooting near a waterfall in Raigad, Mumbai police revealed. Initially part of a larger contract killing module, they trained in Palasdhari, Karjat. So far, ten arrests have been made, but key individuals remain at large. Various motives are under investigation.

Former Pakistan batsman Basit Ali advises PCB selector Aaqib Javed to not wait anymore to announce the squad for the Australia tour, while also warning him of potential opposition within the Pakistan board. Basit emphasizes support for Fakhar Zaman, who may face sanctions for backing ex-captain Babar Azam.

After being stranded at 12,000 feet due to severe weather, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar was rescued thanks to the heroic efforts of three villagers and the ITBP team. The villagers trekked 38km through harsh conditions to deliver essential supplies, saving Kumar and his team.

India and Pakistan have mutually agreed to extend the validity of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor agreement by five years, ensuring uninterrupted travel for Indian pilgrims to the holy Gurdwara in Pakistan. India also continues to urge Pakistan to waive the $20 service charge for visiting pilgrims.

TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee vows to continue fighting non-secular forces after losing his temper and injuring his hand during a heated Waqf Board JPC meeting. He was suspended for a day after an altercation with BJP MPs, where he broke a glass bottle and sustained injuries. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aims to implement reforms by introducing digitization, stricter audits, transparency, and legal measures to reclaim illegally occupied properties.

On October 22, the government launched the 'International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System' to block international calls disguised as Indian numbers. This system aims to protect citizens from financial scams, impersonations, and cyber-crime by identifying and blocking such spoofed calls. Within 24 hours, it blocked about 1.35 crore calls, ensuring a safer digital space.

Hockey has been excluded from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow to cut costs. Hosts Glasgow limited the Games to 10 sports, affecting hockey and others. For Indian athletes, this impacts a significant preparation platform for major events and government jobs. The Federation of International Hockey (FIH) clarified that the decision to not include the sport in Glasgow was a one-off.