Times of India

Bhikan Rojekar from Jalgaon Sapkal village secured AIR 812 in the challenging UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025. His journey spanned several years where he encountered numerous hurdles yet remained laser-focused on his dream. With substantial support from a Maharashtra government scholarship for his studies in Delhi, Rojekar highlights the necessity of having a backup career plan even while chasing ambitious goals.

HHNBAhead of the crucial Israeli elections, Donald Trump has thrown his support behind Benjamin Netanyahu, underlining the critical role their alliance plays in countering Iran's threats to both nations. Trump praised Netanyahu's effectiveness as a leader throughout their joint military efforts, despite previous tensions regarding their strategies towards Iran. This endorsement marks a notable moment as it's uncommon for a sitting U.S.

Shadab Khan led a remarkable comeback for Pakistan against England by scoring an unbeaten 113 runs. Together with Haris Rauf, they built a record-breaking partnership for the last wicket in ODI history. Earlier, England posted a total of 241 runs, with Ben Duckett scoring 105 runs. Pakistan struggled initially but managed to chase down the target after being at 154-9.

A Saudi-led coalition reported intercepting Houthi ballistic missiles aimed at Riyadh, claiming to protect the capital. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree described King Khalid International Airport as unsafe for travellers and staff. The airport administration designated terminals for domestic and international flights despite warnings. Additionally, attacks against Yemeni civilian sites by Saudi warplanes were claimed to be extensive. Claims made by both sides regarding missile interceptions and airstrikes remain unverified.

Oil prices experienced a decline of over 1% after hitting six-month peaks, primarily due to geopolitical unrest in Saudi Arabia. Currently, Brent crude fluctuates around $115 per barrel, and WTI at $101.5 per barrel. The threat to energy exports and infrastructure from Houthi attacks raises alarm, while the Federal Reserve meeting looms, potentially addressing inflation amid climbing energy prices.

Delhi plans to prohibit entry of vehicles not meeting BS6 emission standards in NCR from November 2026. Over 10 lakh vehicles in Gurgaon, Faridabad, Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad may be affected. Gurgaon and Faridabad hold around 2 lakh vehicles below BS6 standards, mostly consisting of BS3 and BS4 categories. Additionally, approximately 50,000 commercial vehicles in both locations do not comply with the new regulations.

Amit Mishra faced significant challenges after being excluded from the Indian cricket team for an extended period. He battled depression for 18 months, questioning his performance while continuing to play. A conversation with a selector helped him realize he needed to improve his domestic performance to succeed. After reflecting on his situation, he managed to return to the Indian team in 2008.

Labuschagne has been afforded more chances than most, but Australian cricket has a history of punishing batters whose judgement deserts them against South Africa.