India

Pant returns after injury scare to hit massive 95m six in Test innings

Rishabh Pant, who had retired hurt on Day 1 after being struck on his left arm, resumed his innings on Monday following the early dismissal of Saransh Jain. He came back to the crease to join Dhruv Jurel as India sought to post a competitive first-innings total. Pant wasted no time making an impact, smashing a massive six estimated at 95 metres that reportedly damaged a solar panel. His aggressive return demonstrated his recovery from the arm blow sustained the previous day.

India Opens Duty-Free Raw Sugar Imports After Domestic Prices Surge 16%

India has approved duty-free imports of 10 lakh tonnes of raw sugar to ease domestic supply pressures. This follows a 16% rise in sugar prices that analysts attribute to over-estimation of available stocks rather than ethanol diversion. In November 2025, the government had permitted sugar mills to export 15 lakh tonnes, a decision that contributed to the tightening of domestic supplies. The import allowance signals a policy correction aimed at stabilising prices for consumers. Authorities are now recalibrating supply assessments to prevent further price volatility in the sugar market.

‘Disparage India’s traditions and heritage’: CM Yogi tears into Rahul Gandhi’s Manusmriti remarks

Mexico reintroduces 47 bison to Coahuila after 160-year absence

Forty-seven American bison have been reintroduced to the Coahuila region of Mexico, ending an absence of over 160 years. The animals are considered key ecosystem engineers, capable of improving soil health and increasing water retention in arid landscapes. Their return is also expected to support the recovery of native predators and other wildlife in the region. The reintroduction is part of a broader conservation effort to restore vital species across North America.

‘CTA intentionally prevented’: PTI alleges negligence over Imran Khan’s hospital visit

Tamil Nadu Minister Faces Online Misogyny Over Viral Dress Video

A controversy erupted in Tamil Nadu after social media users, allegedly DMK supporters, shared a video of a woman in a short dress, questioning whether the person was Industries Minister Keerthana. The incident triggered a political row, drawing attention to targeted online harassment of women in public life. A TVK minister publicly condemned the episode, calling out the misogynistic nature of the attack. The incident has reignited debate around the treatment of women politicians on social media platforms in India.

Chinese humanoid robots outpace Bolt and break human high-jump record

At the Beijing Robot Games, humanoid robots achieved extraordinary performance milestones in both speed and agility. One robot completed a 100-meter sprint in 9.39 seconds, bettering Usain Bolt's world record. A separate robot cleared a standing high jump of 2.88 meters, exceeding the best human performance. These results highlight the rapid progress China is making in advanced robotics development. However, experts note that practical, large-scale deployment of such robots is still a distant goal.

Gold Prices May Have Bottomed Out as Markets Eye US Fiscal Signals

Gold markets appear to be stabilizing after a period of price dips, with analysts suggesting the worst of the decline may be over. Investors are closely watching developments in US Treasury operations as a key factor influencing gold's near-term direction. Ongoing fiscal policy discussions in the United States are also expected to play a significant role in shaping gold price movements. Upcoming economic data releases will be monitored by market participants for further cues on where prices are headed.

Johns Hopkins Professor Endorses Student AI Use, Sparking Debate on Academic Integrity

A Johns Hopkins University professor has stated he is comfortable with students using AI tools, even for academic work. Experienced educators note that AI-generated submissions are often distinguishable from genuine student work, as they tend to lack authentic writing and analytical depth. In response to growing AI use, some instructors are redesigning assignments to reduce dependency on tools like chatbots, while others are returning to handwritten tasks. Staying alert and continuously adapting coursework are emerging as key strategies for teachers navigating this challenge.

New Zealand Moves to Ban Social Media Access for Children Under 16

New Zealand is planning to introduce a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16. The country has been actively studying the feasibility of such a restriction for more than a year. The move follows neighbouring Australia, which became the first country in the world to pass such legislation in December. New Zealand's consideration of the ban reflects a growing regional and global concern over the impact of social media on young people.

150 Pakistani-Sindhi Brides Clear Visa Barriers to Wed in India After Op Sindoor

Around 150 brides from the Pakistani-Sindhi community successfully navigated significant visa challenges to travel to India for their weddings following Operation Sindoor. The Sindhi community has traditionally crossed into India via the Wagah-Attari border in Punjab to attend such matrimonial ceremonies. Heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the military operation had created additional hurdles for cross-border travel. Despite the diplomatic complications, the brides were ultimately able to make the journey and complete their marriages on Indian soil.

Porterville Tops List of California's Most Affordable Cities to Buy a Home

California's housing market offers pockets of affordability, with Porterville leading the way at an average home price of $325,000. Fresno ranks second at around $388,567, bolstered by a strong job market alongside its relatively low home prices. Bakersfield and Eureka follow at averages of $441,009 and $418,081 respectively, while Tulare rounds out the list with homes averaging $458,693. These five cities stand out as the most budget-friendly options for homebuyers in an otherwise expensive state.

'Evicted at dead of night': Mahua Moitra moves SC over Nadia Circuit House eviction

US Navy unveils AIM-424 LRAAM missile with 450km range for future air combat

The United States Navy has officially revealed the AIM-424 Long Range Air-to-Air Missile, known as LRAAM or 'Malice'. The weapon is capable of engaging targets at a range exceeding 250 nautical miles, approximately 450 kilometres. It is designed to be integrated with both existing and next-generation US Navy fighter aircraft. The development is part of a broader effort to sustain American superiority in aerial warfare against advanced threats.

Two POCSO Undertrials Escape Srinagar Central Jail in Security Breach

Two undertrial prisoners facing charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act escaped from Srinagar Central Jail. The incident has exposed a significant security lapse at the facility. Both individuals were awaiting trial for child sexual abuse offences at the time of their escape. Authorities have launched an investigation into how the breach occurred. The escape has raised serious concerns about security protocols at the Jammu and Kashmir prison.

Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Lash Delhi-NCR, Causing Waterlogging and Traffic Chaos

Delhi-NCR experienced intense rainfall on Monday, resulting in widespread waterlogging and severe traffic disruptions across the region. The India Meteorological Department issued a red alert for heavy rain and a yellow alert for moderate showers. Thunderstorms accompanied by strong gusty winds were forecast for several parts of the capital. The Safdarjung weather station recorded a minimum temperature of 27.8 degrees Celsius during the event.

India Defends Request to Limit Press Questions at Modi-Trump Meeting

Indian government sources have described the request to manage press interactions during the Modi-Trump public appearance as routine diplomatic protocol. The sources stated that discussions around arrangements for public appearances of leaders are standard practice ahead of any VVIP visit. The clarification came in response to reports that India had asked the US side to restrict journalist questions at the joint press event. Such arrangements are commonly negotiated between governments before high-level bilateral meetings. No further details were provided about the specific nature of the request or the US response.

Pant overtakes Dhoni to become India's top run-scorer among wicketkeepers in away Tests

Rishabh Pant has set a new record in Indian cricket by surpassing MS Dhoni as the highest run-scorer among Indian wicketkeepers in away Test matches. The milestone was achieved during a competitive Test match, further cementing Pant's reputation as a batting wicketkeeper of the highest order. Pant demonstrated notable resilience during the game, overcoming an injury concern to continue his innings. He also contributed a crucial partnership that bolstered India's position in the match. The achievement marks a significant moment in Pant's career, placing him ahead of one of India's most celebrated cricketers.

Shoriful Islam takes 7/48 as Bangladesh bowl Australia out for 210 in first innings

Bangladesh pacer Shoriful Islam delivered a standout performance against Australia, claiming seven wickets for 48 runs from 15 overs. The 25-year-old from Panchagarh helped dismiss Australia for 210 in their first innings at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. His seven-wicket haul is considered a rare feat in cricket history, echoing a similar achievement last recorded 140 years ago by Dick Barlow. The impressive spell put Bangladesh in a strong position heading into the remainder of the match.

IMD Issues Red Alert for Delhi and Nearby Districts Amid Heavy Rainfall

Heavy rain lashed Delhi and surrounding areas, prompting the India Meteorological Department to issue a red alert. The warning covers select districts and signals the likelihood of continued intense rainfall through the day. A red alert typically indicates extremely heavy precipitation that may disrupt normal life. Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to remain cautious given the severe weather conditions.