The Times of India
Elections 2026National / The Times of India
Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams, a record-holder for spacewalking, shared her experiences at the American Center in Delhi. She spoke about her recent extended stay on the ISS, the challenges faced, and the growing commercialization of space. Williams also highlighted the importance of international cooperation in space exploration and inspired Indian students to pursue careers in the sector.
The Enforcement Directorate has urged the Tamil Nadu government to file an FIR against Minister KN Nehru, alleging Rs 366 crore in money laundering linked to corruption in official transfers within the Municipal Administration department. This marks the third such communication from the ED in three months, citing evidence of bribery and tender rigging.
The Central Administrative Tribunal has cleared IRS officer Sameer Wankhede of disciplinary charges. The tribunal found the charges framed by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs to be retaliatory. It observed that the action appeared to be an attempt to stall Wankhede's promotion.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's use of the term 'urban Naxals' has drawn sharp criticism from the Congress party. The Congress pointed out that the Home Ministry itself does not use this phrase. They questioned if the Prime Minister considers anyone opposing him an 'urban Naxal'.
Lok Sabha MPs must now mark attendance from their designated seats during functioning hours, a change effective from the upcoming Budget session. Speaker Om Birla announced this reform to ensure attendance reflects active participation, not just presence within Parliament. This move aims to boost discipline and productivity in legislative proceedings.
Nitin Nabin, in his first address as BJP national president, urged party workers to defend Sanatan faith and its legacy, stating that parties opposing traditions like 'deepam' in Madurai or Ram Setu have no place in politics. He also encouraged youth to actively participate in politics, viewing it as a long-term commitment.
Political parties have strongly criticized police actions against Kashmiri journalists. They describe the summoning of reporters and demands for bonds as a ew low and an attempt to intimidate and silence independent voices. This comes amid reports of journalists being questioned for their coverage of sensitive issues in the region. The actions are seen as a threat to press freedom.
In response to escalating anti-India protests and potential violence in Bangladesh, India has advised families of its diplomats and officials stationed there to return home. This precautionary measure aims to ensure safety, though all Indian missions and posts in Bangladesh remain fully operational. The situation is temporary and will be reassessed.
A groundbreaking genetic study in Kerala has identified a more aggressive Mpox variant, Clade Ib, linked to international travel and ongoing human-to-human spread. Researchers found distinct mutations indicating the virus is evolving and adapting, suggesting faster transmission than older strains. This discovery underscores the urgent need for heightened surveillance and public health preparedness across India.
Gold and silver prices surged to record highs on Tuesday, both domestically and internationally. This surge was attributed to an uncertain political and economic climate, a weaker dollar, and increasing industrial demand for silver. Analysts suggest that potential interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve could further fuel this upward trend in bullion prices.
The Indian rupee dipped to a one-month low against the dollar on Tuesday, closing at 90.98. This marks the fifth consecutive session of weakening, fueled by escalating geopolitical tensions and a downturn in domestic equity markets. Despite efforts to prevent a record low, persistent dollar demand and global uncertainty continue to pressure the currency.
Inspira Global, owner of Chinese Wok, is acquiring Restaurant Brands Asia (RBA), the operator of Burger King India. This significant deal sees Everstone Capital exiting RBA with a Rs 460 crore stake sale. Inspira plans substantial capital infusion, aiming to bolster its presence in the fast-growing quick-service restaurant sector and expand its brand portfolio.
Operation Trashi-I in Kishtwar's Chatroo region enters its third day, with security forces intensifying searches and aerial surveillance. A terrorist hideout was discovered, and locals were detained for questioning. The operation follows the death of Army Special Forces Commando Havildar Gajendra Singh during an earlier gun battle.
Nasa astronaut Sunita Williams visited India, calling it a homecoming. She shared her experiences aboard the International Space Station. Williams spoke about how seeing Earth from orbit fostered a sense of global unity. India has ambitious space plans, including its own space station by 2035 and a lunar mission by 2040.
Stock market crash: Indian equity benchmarks, Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, closed at over three-month lows after a broad selloff driven by disappointing earnings, renewed global trade risks and sustained foreign investor outflows.
A political storm brews over Varanasi's Manikarnika Ghat, with opposition parties accusing the BJP government of damaging ancient heritage during a beautification drive. Claims of destroyed idols and temples have surfaced, while authorities deny wrongdoing, stating the work protects heritage and corrects neglect. FIRs have been filed against those allegedly spreading misinformation.
The project, announced at the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, involves a total investment of approximately $25 billion. This hub is designed to handle global AI workloads and will be one of the largest investments in India's digital infrastructure to date.
The Delhi government's Finance Committee has approved the construction of a new six-lane elevated road in South Delhi, at an estimated cost of over 1,400 crore.

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