Times of India

At the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, young sanyasis are registering to become Naga sadhus across several akharas. After thorough screening, selected candidates undergo rituals such as tonsuring and pind daan, symbolizing detachment from the material world. The final initiation, involving naked participation in Amrit Snan, will complete their transformation into Naga sadhus.

US President-elect Donald Trump unveiled his own cryptocurrency, $TRUMP, leading to a market frenzy. The coin's market capitalization soared to nearly $6 billion within hours. Despite excitement, concerns about legitimacy emerged, but Trump confirmed its authenticity. 200 million coins were issued initially, with plans to release 800 million more.

Madrassas under the Uttarakhand Waqf Board will introduce Ramayan teachings and Sanskrit in their curriculum from the next academic year starting in March or April. Ex-defence personnel will be hired as physical education instructors. The initiative aims to modernize education and foster nationalism, starting with four madrassas and expanding to all 117 managed by the Waqf Board eventually.

Farmers from India and Bangladesh clashed at the Malda border over allegations of theft and trespassing on Saturday, escalating into a violent confrontation. The BSF and BGB intervened to restore order. The enclave's geography complicates fencing, leading to unintentional border crossings. Officials plan to meet village heads to prevent future incidents, and additional BSF personnel have been deployed.

Sealdah Court found Sanjay Roy guilty in the RG Kar rape and murder case. He has been convicted under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The sentencing, due on January 20, could range from 25 years imprisonment to a life sentence or the death penalty.

US immigration authorities are set to conduct nationwide arrests of undocumented immigrants on Tuesday, following the directives of Donald Trump's incoming administration. Chicago will be one of the targeted cities. The operation, led by ICE and described as a 'large-scale immigration raid,' aims to enforce immigration laws strictly. Chicago police confirmed they will not interfere with federal operations.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma made a humorous remark at the squad selection press conference. India announced the team for the ODI series against England and ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Harshit Rana received maiden ODI call-ups. Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav returned from injuries, while Jasprit Bumrah's fitness remains uncertain. The ODI series starts on February 6.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma on Saturday expressed reservations about the BCCI's new disciplinary guidelines, particularly concerning the 14-day limit for players' families on long tours. The guidelines, influenced by head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, were discussed in a recent review meeting.

A 16-year-old Dalit girl in Moradabad identified her abductor and rapist, Mohd Rashid, through an ID card he left on the car's dashboard. The accused was arrested after the girl's family reported the crime. Rashid, a taxi driver, allegedly made a video of the assault before abandoning the victim. An investigation is ongoing.

India, along with eight other nations, participates in the French-hosted 'La Perouse' naval exercise near the Malacca, Sunda and Lombok straits to enhance maritime surveillance, interdiction operations, and tactical interoperability. The exercise underscores commitment to maritime safety by addressing various risks like accidents, illegal activities, and natural hazards.

The Railway Protection Force (RPF) arrested Aakash Kailash Kannojia at Durg railway station in connection to the stabbing attack on Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan in Mumbai. The Mumbai Police, who had extensive CCTV evidence, alerted RPF about the suspect's location on the Jnaneshwari Express. Khan, who sustained multiple stab wounds, is now out of danger.

The BCCI has announced a 16-member squad for the ODI series against England, including Harshit Rana as cover for the injured Jasprit Bumrah. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar stated that Bumrah's availability is uncertain. Rana's selection, bringing versatility with his all-round skills, highlights the strategic depth and careful planning for India's cricket team.

Tejashwi Yadav criticized Bihar CM Nitish Kumar for his outdated comment on women's sartorial choices, calling it an insult to half the state's population. Yadav's response followed a video where Kumar appreciated the improved confidence and attire of women, leading to criticism from various quarters.

On January 18, 2025, the Phoenix Suns will face the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Both teams are closely matched this season, promising an exciting game. Key players include Devin Booker, Kevin Durant for the Suns and Cade Cunningham, Tobias Harris for the Pistons. The Pistons are predicted to edge out a win.

The selection of Shubman Gill as vice-captain for India's 2025 ICC Champions Trophy squad generates interest. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar highlights Gill's leadership potential, supported by his impressive ODI record. The squad blends experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli with emerging talents and features a balanced bowling lineup.

India captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar held a delayed press conference to announce the team for ODIs against England and the Champions Trophy. Rohit mentioned the need to discuss new BCCI guidelines regarding family travel with officials. Restrictions on players' family time during long tours were brought up in a meeting after recent Test series losses.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claims that organizations like RSS and industrial houses control India. He advocates for a caste census and removing the 50% reservation cap. Gandhi also criticizes RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat for questioning India's independence date and alleges the RSS is erasing ideologies of Ambedkar and Gandhi from Indian institutions.