The Times of India

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval engaged in crucial bilateral talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Iranian security official Ghadir Nezamipour during the BRICS NSA conclave in New Delhi. Discussions focused on normalizing India-China ties and the West Asian security situation. The expanded BRICS bloc grappled with geopolitical tensions and differing member priorities, highlighting the forum's growing influence and challenges.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has sharply criticized Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde, accusing him of giving birth to traitors after six rebel Lok Sabha MPs joined Shinde's faction. Raut's remarks, including a reference to a Cesarean surgery, came as Shinde declared Operation Tiger complete following the induction of the MPs. This marks another significant split within the Uddhav Thackeray camp.

A tragic industrial accident at Qatar's Ras Laffan gas facility has claimed at least 13 lives, including Indian nationals, and injured 66. The blast at the Barzan gas supply facility, ruled an accident, occurred Sunday night. Despite the incident, Qatar's energy minister assured that domestic needs and LNG exports remain unaffected, though repairs will take time.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with Iran's deputy defense secretary Ghadir Nezamipour in New Delhi, discussing the Middle East's security landscape, BRICS cooperation, and bilateral ties. This meeting occurred on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS National Security Advisers' Meeting, which India is hosting. Discussions also touched upon global challenges, terrorism, and the evolving nature of security threats.

A devastating fire swept through a coaching-cum-gaming zone in Lucknow's Aliganj area on Monday afternoon, claiming the lives of at least 12 young students. Fourteen fire tenders battled the blaze that erupted around 3 pm. While authorities are investigating the exact origin, the incident has sent shockwaves through the city, with many others reportedly injured in the tragedy.

Rajasthan ATS apprehended a woman in Jaipur for alleged ties with Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed and other anti-national elements. Investigations revealed her social media accounts and phone contained objectionable content and links to foreign profiles, including those displaying extremist symbols. She reportedly converted to Islam after guidance from a Pakistan-based Mufti and was allegedly being prepared for travel to Pakistan. Booked under UAPA, she is in ATS custody.

India is set to launch its first indigenous hydrogen fuel-cell train on the Jind-Sonipat route, joining an elite group of nations. This 10-coach train, powered by a 1200kW engine, emits only water vapor, offering a clean alternative to fossil fuels. A dedicated hydrogen storage and refueling facility is operational in Jind, with maintenance planned in Delhi. This move significantly bolsters India's green mobility and net-zero emission targets.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has accused Delhi Police of obstructing protesters at Jantar Mantar, demanding the Union Education Minister's resignation over the NEET-UG paper leak. Dipke alleged police are using Aadhaar card checks to deter participants and highlighted the lack of basic facilities, including water supply to restrooms, for demonstrators. The protest has entered its third day.

Protesters at Jantar Mantar, led by Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke, are demanding the restoration of water supply and better facilities amidst their sit-in over the NEET-UG paper leak. Dipke also criticized police for questioning those donating supplies. The group, seeking compensation and the Education Minister's resignation, vows to continue their protest until their demands are met, highlighting widespread public support for the cause.

Latest data reveals a significant gender disparity in marital status, with 3.5% of the population widowed, divorced, or separated in 2024. Women disproportionately represent this group at 5.4% compared to men's 1.6%, highlighting unique challenges. Southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu, show the highest percentages for both the general population and women in this category.

The CBSE has begun releasing Class 12 verification and re-evaluation results, covering over 87% of applications. This follows student concerns about potential answer sheet mismatches with their handwriting, raising transparency issues. The board assures a robust system and urges students to rely on official communications, with remaining results to be announced soon via DigiLocker.

On rebel MPs statement they have the requisite twothird numbers threshold required to be exempt from the law and retain membership of the House he said that the merger will be accepted only when two-third of the political party merges with another political party and not just legislative party.