Times of India

India's health ministry is closely monitoring a new variant of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) amid a rise in respiratory illnesses in China. The surge aligns with seasonal flu patterns and involves common pathogens like HMPV, Influenza, and RSV. India is prepared, and the public is advised to follow standard health precautions.

South African pacer Marco Jansen faced scrutiny due to a controversial no-ball incident in the second Test against Pakistan, reminiscent of Mohammad Amir's 2010 spot-fixing scandal. Jansen’s impressive 62-run innings was overshadowed as South Africa posted a commanding 615 with notable contributions from Ryan Rickelton and Kyle Verreynne.

Prashant Kishor, on an indefinite hunger strike at Patna’s Gandhi Maidan over the alleged Bihar Public Service Commission exam question paper leak, defends a luxury vanity van, stating it fulfills practical needs during his fast. Kishor vows to continue his protest despite mounting pressure and an FIR lodged against him.

Indian-origin US lawmakers face racist backlash after Congressman Ami Bera posts a photo celebrating the growth of Indian-American representation in Congress. Critics on social media question their loyalty and call for stricter laws on eligibility for federal office based on native-born status, despite most being born in the US.

India's Jasprit Bumrah is facing uncertainty regarding his fitness after a back spasm led to scans during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25. Despite his impactful performance with 31 wickets, Bumrah's workload has been intense. Australia’s Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc have bowled more but Bumrah remains the most lethal bowler so far.

A heated exchange between Jasprit Bumrah and Sam Konstas during the first day of the fifth Test at the SCG draws criticism from India captain Rohit Sharma and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting. The altercation began when Usman Khawaja delayed Bumrah's delivery. Bumrah eventually dismissed Khawaja, staring down Konstas.

The Tamil Nadu government has announced that Jan 17 will be a holiday for government offices, public sector undertakings, and educational institutions. This declaration creates a six-day holiday stretch starting from Pongal on Jan 14 to Jan 19. Institutions will make up for this by functioning on Jan 25.

Isro successfully germinates cowpea seeds in microgravity during the PSLV-C60 POEM-4 mission, marking significant progress in space agriculture. Utilizing the Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS), the experiment highlights India's advances in space research and the potential for sustainable agricultural methods in space.

A CISF jawan named Kisan Singh, from Jaipur, allegedly shot himself dead at Surat International Airport. The incident occurred in the airport washroom and he was declared dead at the hospital. Recent reports indicate a 40% decline in CISF suicides from 2023 to 2024.

Vishal Sikka, former Infosys CEO, met with PM Narendra Modi to discuss AI and its implications for India. Sikka shared his impressions of the Prime Minister's understanding of technology's impact. PM Modi emphasized India's commitment to leading in AI and creating opportunities for the youth.

Roman Reigns and Galina Becker celebrated their tenth wedding anniversary last month. Reigns, set for a significant showdown against Solo Sikoa on WWE RAW 2025, boasts a net worth of $20 million. With a lucrative Netflix partnership, Reigns' transition to a heel character has significantly boosted his career and financial success.

Anticipating Coldplay’s concert in Ahmedabad in January 2025, the District Child Protection Unit mandates that children must not be used in performances or allowed entry without ear protection. This notice follows concerns raised about potential harm from high sound levels. Previous similar actions include modifying Diljit Dosanjh's concert content to protect children.

Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald raised concerns over India's 'intimidating' celebrations during Usman Khawaja's dismissal in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy match in Sydney. He focused on ensuring non-striker Sam Konstas was mentally prepared, citing the incident's potential psychological impact despite no formal charges against India.

Three Indian Army soldiers lost their lives and two others were injured when their vehicle skidded off the road and fell into a deep gorge near the Wular Viewpoint in Bandipora district. The accident occurred due to inclement weather and poor visibility. Prompt medical assistance was provided by Kashmiri locals. Further details are awaited.

Sunil Gavaskar criticized overseas complaints about Indian pitches after 15 wickets fell on the second day of the fifth Test at SCG. He pointed out the double standards in pitch critiques, stating that Indian players toughen it out abroad without complaining. Rishabh Pant's rapid half-century helped India lead by 145 runs with four wickets remaining.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju visited Ajmer Sharif Dargah to present a chadar on behalf of Prime Minister Modi, emphasizing the message of peace and unity. The gesture marked the 11th time PM Modi participated in the Urs celebration, focusing on fostering a harmonious and inclusive society.

Canada will stop accepting new applications for permanent residence under the Parents and Grandparents sponsorship programme starting in 2025. IRCC plans to process a maximum of 15,000 applications in 2025 and offers the super visa option for extended visits. This change is due to a 20% reduction in permanent resident targets.