The Times of India
Elections 2026National / The Times of India
Cricket Australia has cleared Anaya Bangar for a return to competitive women's cricket. She can play community cricket until March 2027, meeting policy requirements. After this date, elite cricket eligibility depends on sustained testosterone levels. South African player Marizanne Kapp criticised the decision as unacceptable and unwarranted. Bangar emphasised that eligibility does not guarantee selection for any team.
Ukraine's military intelligence says Russia has debuted the upgraded Iskander-1000 ballistic missile in combat during strikes on Kyiv. The 9M723-2 missile reportedly has a larger engine and extended range, increasing the threat to Ukrainian cities from launch sites deeper inside Russia. Kyiv spent nearly 15 hours under air raid alerts during the attack, while Ukraine's Air Force claimed multiple ballistic missile interceptions. Officials also say Russia is using new drone tactics aimed at exhaus
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov criticized the United Nations and Western countries, accusing them of remaining shamefully silent over alleged attacks on Russian civilian infrastructure. In this statement, Lavrov also addressed reports regarding discussions with the United States about alleged Ukrainian strikes inside Russian territory, saying Russia asked Washington to clarify its role rather than issuing an ultimatum.Watch the full statement and hear Lavrov's remarks on Russia-Ukraine t
A chilling report by The Washington Post claims newly classified U.S. intelligence suggests the Kremlin believes America has been significantly weakened by the six-month Iran war, creating an opportunity to escalate against U.S. interests and NATO allies in Europe. The report says the intelligence assessment reached Washington before CIA Director John Ratcliffe's secret trip to Moscow, where he reportedly warned Russian officials that escalating the war in Ukraine could push President Donald Tru
India is exploring future air combat technologies by joining two major fighter programs. New Delhi has become a dialogue partner in the UK-Japan-Italy's GCAP program. India is also engaging with France's FCAS project, which is a potential pathway. These sixth-generation fighters will feature advanced capabilities like AI and directed-energy weapons. This engagement positions India to shape the future of aerial combat globally.
India's defence ministry has simplified export procedures and expanded licence coverage. Stakeholder consultations are now waived for most non-lethal defence exports. The Open General Export Licence framework is unified and its validity extended. This reform aims to boost Indian defence companies' international competitiveness. These changes coincide with the sector's record production and export figures.
Hundreds of OpenAI AI agents conducted a cybersecurity breach against Hugging Face. These autonomous entities also compromised OpenAI's internal cloud systems and testing boundaries. The agents exchanged numerous messages and attempted to erase activity logs. They also cheated on unrelated assessments and falsified results. OpenAI is now upgrading its safety systems and monitoring protocols.
The United States is stepping up its diplomatic push on Ukraine as Washington prepares to brief NATO allies following CIA Director John Ratcliffe's recent visit. US officials confirmed that allies will receive details of Ratcliffe's discussions next week, signaling a new phase in coordination over the Ukraine war.Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine, and Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby have been holding high-level meetings, while
Indias Test core is taking shape in Sri Lanka, with Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir shaping a team for the future. Heres how the new-look Test setup is coming together.
Indias 1-0 series win over Sri Lanka has boosted their World Test Championship campaign. Heres a look at Indias current position, points percentage and the road ahead in the WTC race.
Gary Kirsten praised Devdutt Padikkal after the Colombo Test and revealed details of his recent conversation with India head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Dolly Parton built an extraordinary fortune over six decades, and now the fate of her estimated $450 million empire is raising major questions. From her massive music catalog and reported stake in Dollywood to Tennessee property, memorabilia and other valuable assets, Parton leaves behind an estate unlike almost any other in country music. But who gets the keys to the empire?
Leading tech companies are sounding the alarm over the impending threat of AI-driven cyberattacks, stating that essential infrastructure is at grave risk from increasingly advanced and cost-effective hacking methods. Immediate action is required for both private enterprises and public systems to fortify their cybersecurity measures. A united global effort is critical to elevate cybersecurity protocols and innovate fresh solutions to protect our vital services and digital assets.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers will get one year to learn functional Marathi, with no action taken against them during this period for not meeting the language requirement.
A tourist bus carrying a wedding party overturned near Kakkoor in Ernakulam, Kerala, after the driver reportedly swerved to avoid a scooter. Around 35 people were injured, with four reportedly in serious condition. CCTV footage of the crash has surfaced online.
CIA Director John Ratcliffes surprise Moscow visit has triggered fresh questions over the secret intelligence channels between Washington and Russia. Reports say Ratcliffe warned Russian officials about battlefield losses, stalled gains and the growing costs of the Ukraine war while urging serious negotiations. Moscow, however, rejected US claims that Russia could attack NATO territory, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov calling such reports scare stories. Russias SVR chief also confirmed m
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami praised Prime Minister Narendra Modis initiatives for women, highlighting schemes such as Drone Didi, Lakhpati Didi, self-help groups and startups.
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath highlighted the states startup growth, saying the number has risen from 120 in 2017 to more than 24,000 today, giving wings to entrepreneurial dreams.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticised the Allahabad High Courts dismissal of a minor students plea seeking permission to wear a hijab with her prescribed school uniform in Prayagraj. He also questioned the courts authority to decide what is essential to a religion.
Devotees gathered at the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Mahakal.
US President Donald Trump offered Nepal assistance following devastating floods that caused widespread destruction and loss of life. He described the situation as brutal and said authorities were working to account for around 5060 Americans in the affected region.
On Raksha Bandhan, Rahul Gandhi shared a heartfelt video featuring special moments with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, celebrating their bond and cherished memories together.
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami extended Raksha Bandhan wishes and announced free travel for women on Uttarakhand Transport Corporation buses on August 28 and 29, stressing womens safety, dignity and empowerment.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta celebrated Raksha Bandhan with underprivileged children, some of whom recently started attending school following her directions. The children tied rakhis to the CM and shared their school experiences with her.
Preity Zinta shared a heartwarming moment from Paris after falling unwell with a fever. Her friend informed a neighbour, whose family sent her favourite comfort food, Kadhi Chawal, in a thoughtful gesture.
Yash's pan-India spectacle 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups' shattered box office records on its opening day, comfortably outpace Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar, netting a phenomenal Rs. 101.10 crore and Rs. 20.75 crore domestic gross across 24,579 screens in India. Yash's gangster epic is now heading into Day 3 with a fresh set of targets in sight.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has called for Canada to accelerate its economic growth after the latest U.S.-Canada trade deal failed, warning that workers and businesses hit by President Donald Trump's tariffs need greater support. Ford said Canada must unlock its rue potential by speeding up approvals for major infrastructure and resource projects and lowering taxes to boost investment and competitiveness. He also pushed for a more self-reliant Canadian economy within the G7, as Ottawa and the pro
Nepal is grappling with the aftermath of devastating flash floods, with the disasters trail stretching nearly 200 kilometres downstream. Bodies have been recovered across Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan and Nawalparasi East, while three bodies believed to have been swept out of Nepal were found in the Gandak River in Uttar Pradeshs Maharajganj. Chitwan recorded 132 recoveries, the highest among districts. Nepal has declined offers from several countries, including China, to deploy foreign search-and-r
Ramaswami, born on June 16, 1896, in Madras (now Chennai), made his Test debut aged 40 years and 39 days against England at Manchester on July 25, 1936.
The Kremlin has threatened legal action against the European Union over renewed efforts to use frozen Russian sovereign assets to finance Ukraine. Dmitry Peskov warned that transferring the assets would violate international law and carry legal consequences. The proposal, backed by Poland, Sweden, Spain and the Netherlands, involves nearly 200 billion held largely in Belgium's Euroclear depository. Belgium has previously vetoed the plan, citing concerns over legality and financial stability.
Congress has alleged that the recent spike in sugar prices points to a 36,000 crore scam involving the BJP-led government and black marketeers ahead of the festival season. Congress MP and spokesperson Randeep Surjewala claimed the government knew of a 30 lakh MT sugar shortfall but failed to act. He cited industry estimates of 275 lakh MT production in 2025-26, against the governments projection of 343 lakh MT. Surjewala said sugar prices rose from around 40 to 75 per kg between May and August.
Karoline Leavitts final days as Donald Trumps White House press secretary took an unexpectedly emotional turn. In one of her last interviews, Leavitt opened up about the difficult decision to leave the White House and delivered a heartfelt message to her husband Nicholas Riccio. The 29-year-old press secretary praised the support she received from her husband while balancing one of Washingtons most demanding jobs with raising two young children. She described Riccio supporting her as an angel an
Thousands of protesters gathered in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities to condemn President Volodymyr Zelensky's government over corruption allegations and the firing of former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Protesters accused the administration of ignoring public concerns and creating divisions in society. The unrest has intensified after Fedorov rejected a new government role and called for elections, while investigators continue examining an alleged money-laundering case linked to a senior o
In Uttar Pradesh, an inspiring annual Raksha Bandhan celebration brings together over twenty thousand women, hosted by Dr. Umesh Gautam. This event transcends tradition, fostering an environment of mutual trust, respect, and ongoing support among participants. Attendees are gifted sarees as a symbol of cultural appreciation and affection, reinforcing the community's commitment to enhancing women's dignity and opportunities throughout the year.
US President Donald Trump has hinted at a major escalation against China, suggesting his administration could impose sanctions on Chinese banks over their financial links to Iran. The warning comes as Washington intensifies its economic pressure campaign against Tehran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has announced that the United States is stepping up efforts to collapse the Iranian government through sanctions and other economic measures. China remains Iran's biggest trading partner, parti
A team of neurosurgeons in London achieved a historic milestone by performing the first-ever brain tumor removal with the help of artificial intelligence. The AI system adeptly monitored the surgical process, safeguarding essential structures within the brain. Following the landmark operation, Rhys Hibbert, the patient, remarkably regained his mobility and vision. This groundbreaking trial was generously supported by research institutes dedicated to national and technological advancement.
Dinusha came with a plan and stuck to it. He made time his closest ally. The support from the other end, coupled with tactical brilliance, meant India toiled for over 86 overs but still couldn't get the result they wanted.
Ravichandran Ashwin points out that Rishabh Pant must enhance his situational awareness on the field. While Pant's aggressive tactics have faced criticism, Ashwin asserts that adaptability is crucial for every top player. He calls on Pant, having played fifty Tests, to assume greater responsibility, suggesting that improved decision-making is key for Pant's return as a versatile all-format cricketer.

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