Before Ajit Pawar Plane Crash, EU Regulator Had Acted Against Operator VSR
The European Union's (EU) aviation regulator that certifies non-EU airlines operating in its territories had denied permission to the same Delhi-based private jet company that also flew Maharashtra leader Ajit Pawar from entering EU areas.
Maharashtra NCP chief dismisses merger buzz with Sharad Pawar party
Mumbai: Amid statements by some leaders of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) that the Sharad Pawar-led group and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP were to merge after zilla parishad elections this month, the latters state unit chief on Monday indicated that such a unification appeared a remote possibility. Talking to reporters at Karad in western Maharashtras Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Delhis Bijwasan Mega Railway Terminal To Be Operational By June, Aiming To Ease Congestion
The terminal is designed to handle a large share of trains heading towards Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra.
Two arrested from Karnataka and Maharashtra for duping woman of 15 lakh by selling fake jewellery
'Something Fishy': Oppn Says '80% Of Maharashtra' Suspects Foul Play In Ajit Pawar's Plane Crash
BJP leaders in Maharashtra has urged the Opposition parties not to politicise the tragic death.
Man kills daughter to contest Maharashtra local body polls, held in Telangana
Hyderabad: A Maharashtra man, a father of three children, who aspired to contest local body elections in the state, allegedly killed his six-year-old daughter by throwing her into a canal in Telangana to be eligible to contest panchayat polls, police said on Monday, February 2. Those having more than two children are ineligible to contest Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
NCP will continue with NDA, says Sunil Tatkare amid merger speculation
There should be clarity on which party is merging with which, MP Sunil Tatkare said in Karad, located in Maharashtras Satara district
Japan says rare earth found in sediment retrieved on deep-sea mission
Japan retrieved rare earth minerals from 6,000 meters deep near Minami Torishima, marking the worlds first deep-sea extraction at such depth. The mission, using the Chikyu drilling ship, aims to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals like dysprosium and yttrium, vital for EVs, electronics, and wind turbines
Nagpur civic polls: Congress claims 150 rebels withdrew, BJP says 96 pulled back
Ahead of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation polls, Congress claimed 150 party rebels withdrew their nominations, while BJP said 96 rebels stepped aside, signalling last-minute consolidation by both parties before voting
CBI Arrests Cybercriminal After Massive Search Operation Across 10 States
New Delhi, Feb 2: The CBI has arrested an alleged cybercriminal after conducting a massive countrywide search operation across 35 locations as part of a sweeping multinational crackdown on cyber-enabled financial crimes, officials said on Monday. Christened Operation CyStrike, the crackdown was launched on January 30 in coordination with law-enforcement agencies in the United States, the United Kingdom, Kuwait, Ireland, and Singapore. The CBI officers searched 35 locations across 10 states, including Delhi, Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, [] The post CBI Arrests Cybercriminal After Massive Search Operation Across 10 States appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
JP Nadda reviews healthcare delivery with Rajasthan, Maharashtra ministers
Union Health Minister JP Nadda held a review meeting with Rajasthan and Maharashtra health ministers, focusing on strengthening public health infrastructure, drug regulation, diagnostics, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, and Indias TB elimination goals
HM Amit Shah shuts Congress MP after criticism over Tejasvi Surya`s remarks
BJP MP Tejasvi Surya criticized Congress for ignoring Indias civilisational values, prompting objections from Congress MP Hibi Eden. Home Minister Amit Shah intervened, defending Surya during the Parliament debate
Sunetra Pawar To Become NCP Chief Days After Taking Over As Maharashtra Deputy CM: Sources
The development comes in the aftermath of the sudden death of Ajit Pawar, who was serving as the NCPs national president as well as Maharashtras deputy chief minister.
AAIB says probe into VSR Ventures' plane crash in Sep 2023 in 'final stages'
The aeroplane crash at Baramati on January 28, in which Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others died, also involved a Learjet 45 plane owned by VSR Ventures.
Rotary Club of Bombay inaugurates industry ready innovation lab at the city's ITI
The Rotary Club of Bombay has launched an Industry 4.0 ready innovation lab at ITI Mumbai, a significant step for future-ready vocational education. This collaboration with the Maharashtra government aims to equip underprivileged youth with advanced skills, enhancing their employability.
Sreedharan pushes Kerala bullet train plan despite no mention in Budget 2026
E Sreedharan opened an office in Ponnani to start work on a proposed ThiruvananthapuramKannur high-speed rail project, despite Kerala being excluded from the Union Budget 2026 rail corridors. He said DPR and survey work will begin soon, expressing confidence of central approval
Trading volume will hold steady despite higher STT imposed in Budget 2026: ICRA
The Union Budget 2026 raised STT on futures and options from April 1, 2026. ICRA expects a 16 percent rise in STT collections in financial year 2027. Derivatives volumes cross 500x GDP in India hence the government said the move aims to curb excessive speculation
Supreme Court grants bail to three accused in 2024 Pune Porsche crash case
The Supreme Court granted bail to three accused in the 2024 Pune Porsche accident case that killed two people, observing that parents must be held accountable for juveniles being given cars and money without control
BMC chessboard takes shape: BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena appoint key party leaders
The BJP and Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena have appointed their respective party leaders in the BMC, with Ganesh Khankar and Amey Ghole taking charge. Both parties will register separately at Konkan Bhavan, and the next Mumbai mayor will be selected from the 118 Mahayuti corporators.
Congress MP Ujjwal Raman Singh: Following Pakistans decision to boycott its high-profile T20 World Cup match against India, the Opposition on Monday termed the move the 'biggest slap on the face' of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Several Opposition leaders also questioned Indias participation in matches against Pakistan after 'Operation Sindoor'. Meanwhile, the BJP said Pakistans decision was inconsequential and it was another example of its cowardice. Speaking to IANS, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said Pakistans boycott exposed the failure of cricketing diplomacy. This is the biggest slap on the face of the BCCI. The BCCI is the most powerful and richest cricket body in the world and an influential member of the ICC. After the terror attack and 'Operation Sindoor', we repeatedly raised Pakistans role in promoting terrorism on global platforms. Families of the 26 people who lost their lives kept appealing that matches should not be played with Pakistan, she said. Congress MP Ujjwal Raman Singh echoed similar concerns, stating that Pakistan should have been stopped from playing India immediately after 'Operation Sindoor'. At that time, we raised the question of why India was still playing Pakistan. Terror attacks were carried out, innocent people were killed, and it was a serious issue. Yet matches continued. Now Pakistan is pretending to be the victim, while our people suffered losses. The ICC should take strict action. In a way, Pakistan is slapping us in the face, and India should take a firm stand, he said, adding that the ICCs representatives appeared to be failing in enforcing discipline. Congress leader Pratap Singh Khachariyawas said, Pakistan is meaningless and acting irrationally. Pakistan is not loyal even to Imran Khan or to its own people, so how can it be loyal to India? What Pakistan says about India makes no difference, because India has defeated Pakistan every time. Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Kumar Rai said India missed an opportunity to take a decisive stand earlier. It is our mistake. We should not have given Pakistan the opportunity to refuse playing against us. A better decision should have been taken immediately after 'Operation Sindoor', he told IANS. Congress MP Tariq Anwar said, It is unfortunate that Pakistan refused at the very last moment, just when the time had come to play the match. It's against the norms. There are few days left, then they are taking this decision. This is wrong. Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput said the situation raised serious questions for the ruling party and cricket authorities. India will not tolerate threats. Whoever wants to leave can leave. But the BJP and the BCCI will have to answer how a country like Pakistan, and even smaller nations like Bangladesh, feel confident enough to issue threats or boycotts against India. The BJP must respond clearly, he said. In contrast, BJP leaders dismissed Pakistans decision as irrelevant. BJP MP Damodar Agrawal said, It is their matter whether they play or not. There is no need for any reaction from our side. BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo criticised Pakistans history, calling the boycott another example of its cowardice. Pakistan has a long history of retreat. In 194748, when it intruded into Kashmir, the Indian Army pushed them back. The same pattern was seen in 1965. During 'Operation Sindoor' as well, history repeated itself. We will appeal to the ICC to ban Pakistans cricket team for violating ICC norms, he said. BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal said Pakistan benefited financially from Indian viewership. It is better if they do not come. They earn revenue from Indian television channels. On their own, they will not even be able to pay their cricketers, he said. BJP MLA Ram Kadam said Indias strength had already been proven on and off the field. Our players have shown that even on Pakistans home ground, they are capable of defeating them. Whether in the sky or on the ground, India has taught Pakistan lessons. This is a transformed India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi that enters enemy territory and acts decisively, he said. BJP Maharashtra President Amit Satam said, This is Pakistans nature. Over the past many years, Pakistan has always behaved in this manner, and every time they show the same nature. BJP State President Sanjay Saraogi stated that Pakistans global standing had weakened further after Operation Sindoor. Our brave soldiers entered Pakistan and destroyed terrorist hideouts, leaving them shaken. Pakistan has no status left. It would be better if they do not play with India, he said. BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal emphasised national security over sports. India is not concerned about this issue. The safety of our country is paramount. Pakistan creates chaos, and it does not matter whether they play or not, he said. BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal emphasised national security over sports. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This is their decision. If they do not play, we will still go ahead and play, he added. Article Source: IANS
NIA conducts searches in Srinagar, Baramulla and Bandipora in terror case probe
The National Investigation Agency on Monday conducted searches at multiple locations in Srinagar, Baramulla and Bandipora districts of Jammu and Kashmir in connection with a terror case. The action comes amid intensified counter-terror operations in the region
More than 21,000 girl students in schools across Maharashtra will be imparted military training from February 1, state school education minister Dada Bhuse said. The students will various martial arts such as Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, Krav Maga, Boxing, Kickboxing, Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Aikido and Wushu and the curriculum also includes Yoga to to improve flexibility and emotional balance.
Happy Streets shows the power of community spaces: Rithvik Dhanjani
Happy Streets transformed Chembur's St Sebastian School Road into a vibrant, vehicle-free zone on January 25. The Times of India initiative encouraged community interaction and fitness with activities like Zumba, pottery, and live singing, drawing enthusiastic participation from all age groups.
Ajit Pawars son Parth Pawar breaks down while holding fathers chair at NCP office in Mumbai
Parth Pawar, son of the late Ajit Pawar, was deeply emotional at a prayer ceremony for his father's ashes, embracing an empty chair. NCP Maharashtra president Sunil Tatkare announced plans to take the ashes across the state for public homage. He also affirmed the NCP's commitment to the NDA, emphasizing their continued adherence to secular principles and social justice ideals.
BJP and Shiv Sena are poised to register a joint MahaYuti group for the BMC, with Ganesh Khankar and Prabhakar Shinde as frontrunners for BJP group leader. A power-sharing formula is reportedly finalized, granting the BJP the Mayor's post and Standing Committee Chairperson, while Sena secures the whip and Deputy Mayor position.
BJP mastermind behind Sunetra Pawars appointment as deputy CM, claims Saamana
MUMBAI, Feb 2: The Opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) on Monday claimed the BJP leadership was the mastermind behind NCP leader Sunetra Pawar taking oath as Maharashtras deputy chief minister, just days after her husband Ajit Pawars demise. An editorial in the Sena (UBT) mouthpiece Saamana also alleged that the BJP leadership and Nationalist Congress Party leaders Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel do not want the unification of the two NCP factions. Sunetra Pawar took oath as the states first woman [] The post BJP mastermind behind Sunetra Pawars appointment as deputy CM, claims Saamana appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Union Budget 2026 balances continuity and future growth, says SBI Chairman
SBI Chairman Challa Sreenivasulu Setty has hailed Union Budget 2026, calling it a blend of policy continuity and futuristic reforms. He said the budget boosts infrastructure, banking, agriculture, AI adoption and sunrise sectors while keeping fiscal discipline intact
Police are investigating if the firing outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty's residence is linked to his upcoming film projects or his recent acquisition of rights to a book on the underworld. Five individuals from Pune have been arrested in connection with the incident, with investigations ongoing into potential links to organized crime.
Delhi-NCR wakes up to dense fog with AQI in moderate to poor categories
According to CPCB readings, several monitoring stations across the capital recorded elevated AQI levels. Anand Vihar reported an AQI of 242, Bawana 222, Chandni Chowk 217, Dwarka Sector-8 240, and R.K. Puram 232
IDF kills Hezbollah engineer Ali Dawood Amich in southern Lebanon strike
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed it killed Hezbollah terrorist Ali Dawood Amich, head of a Hezbollah engineering branch, in southern Lebanon. Amich was reportedly restoring military infrastructure and planning attacks against Israeli forces
Ukraine: 15 killed, 7 injured as Russian drone hits miners` bus in Pavlohrad
Ukraine: 15 people were killed and seven others injured when a Russian drone struck a service bus carrying miners in the Pavlohrad district of Ukraine on Saturday (local time), according to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine. According to a statement issued on X by the emergency service, a fire broke out following the strike
World Bank President Ajay Banga visits gurdwara, archeological site in Pakistan
World Bank President Ajay Banga visited Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal and the Jaulian Buddhist archaeological site in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, holding discussions on provincial economic affairs and cultural heritage preservation
NDA partners have been called to Delhi, says former Manipur CM
Former Manipur CM N Biren Singh said NDA partners have been called to Delhi for talks as Presidents Rule in the state nears its end. The BJP leadership is expected to decide on extending Presidents Rule after consultations
Ajit Pawar's memorial to come up on Vidya Pratishthan premises in Baramati
A memorial for late Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar will be built at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati, the Pawar familyfounded institution where his last rites were held. Close aide Kiran Gujar said Sharad Pawar, along with Pratibha Pawar, visited the site and asked trustees to prepare a plan for the memorial.
Union Budget 2026: Cancer drugs cheaper, AI push, defence boost and MSME support
Union Budget 2026 brings relief with cheaper cancer drugs, a major push for AI and data centres, a 15 per cent hike in defence spending, Rs 10,000 crore for biopharma and targeted support for MSMEs, while triggering mixed political reactions
Epstein suspected of running global honeytrap linked to Russian intelligence
Jeffrey Epstein is suspected of operating a global honeytrap racket allegedly linked to Russian intelligence, according to a media report. Newly released documents reportedly mention Vladimir Putin, Moscow and alleged espionage links involving Epstein and the Maxwell family
Iran warns of regional war as Trump threatens military action
Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that any US attack would trigger a regional war, as President Donald Trump threatened military strikes and claimed India would shift oil purchases from Iran to Venezuela
Suns magnetic interior mapped for first time
A new study has reconstructed a 3D image of the Suns internal magnetic field using decades of satellite data, allowing scientists to track how solar magnetism evolves beneath the surface something never directly observed before
New study reveals Roman era medicine used human excrement
A new study has found dark-brown flakes inside a Roman glass medicinal vial, offering the first direct evidence that human excrement was used to treat illnesses. The practice was linked to Galen of Pergamon, a renowned Roman physician
Leaders of our neighbouring country should pay attention to what their young people are trying to tell them
We must ensure that tourists arent fleeced
In her post, she alleged that she was scammed shortly after landing in Mumbai and also shared the registration number of the taxi
Union Budget 2026: An economic Dhurandhar
Several hits in this budget puts ease at front and centre; focus on dispute resolution and domestic strengthening; there is no change in slab rates, surcharge, or the four per cent education cess
How Bharat Intelligence uses AI to solve farm labour crisis in Maharashtras villages
Mumbai-based agritech startup Bharat Intelligence has created a digital model of villages across Maharashtra, where its AI engine deploys labourers to farmers with accuracy.
Union Budget 2026: A quiet budget with loud intent
Budget 2026 signals trust over control; the most important reform is the comprehensive simplification and liberalisation of the Customs and tax administration
Red-hot Padikkal hits ton, guides Karnataka to quarters
Mohali, Feb 1: Skipper Devdutt Padikkal continued with his run-scoring spree as his 85-ball-120 took Karnataka into the quarterfinals of Ranji Trophy, with a five-wicket victory over Punjab in their final Group B encounter here on Sunday. Karnataka (27 points), thus joined Madhya Pradesh (28 points) who had already beaten Maharashtra on Saturday, to make []
Budget will benefit Maharashtra amid rapid urbanisation: Fadnavis
Minimum temp likely to drop on Feb 6-7: IMD
Will not campaign for Maharashtra zilla parishad elections, says chief minister Devendra Fadnavis
Bike thief flees lock-up, held
Union Budget 2026: Why did the stock market see a bloodbath on Budget Day
Union Budget 2026: Markets turned volatile on Budget Day as Nifty and Sensex fell sharply after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a steep hike in STT on futures and options trading, triggering panic selling and heavy losses in large-cap stocks
BMC explores bond route to finance major water & coastal projects
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed surprise regarding any potential merger talks between NCP factions, stating Ajit Pawar always confided in him. This follows Sharad Pawar's claim that Ajit Pawar had set February 12 for a merger announcement. Ajit Pawar's wife, Sunetra Pawar, was recently sworn in as Deputy CM.
CISF deploys multi-layered security for Wings India as event draws huge crowds
An official statement said that the CISF successfully provided comprehensive security for Wings India 2026, held at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad from January 28 to 31, 2026
Visibility drops, experts say smog to stay for some days
Himanta Biswa Sarma says, `15 Bangladeshis pushed back from Assam`
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said 15 Bangladeshi immigrants were pushed back across the border as part of the states ongoing crackdown on illegal migration. He reaffirmed the governments commitment to act firmly against infiltrators
Not appointed as NCP president, says Praful Patel
Praful Patel has denied media reports naming him Nationalist Congress Party National President. He stated such decisions require consultation with senior leadership and party members. Union Minister Piyush Goyal also retracted his earlier statements based on incorrect information. Maharashtra NCP president Sunil Tatkare confirmed due procedure will be followed.
Union Budget 2026: Smartphones get cheaper, cigarettes and alcohol to cost more
Smartphones and sports equipment may become cheaper, while cigarettes, alcohol, and futures and options trading will see higher costs, even as income tax slabs remain unchanged. The changes will come into effect from April 1
Union Budget 2026: FAQs, key numbers, and themes to watch
In her first Budget in 2019, Sitharaman replaced the decades-old leather briefcase with a traditional red bahi-khata, symbolising a shift in presentation style. Continuing the practice of recent years, the Union Budget 202627 will be paperless, marking the fifth consecutive digital Budget
Union Budget 2026: Whats getting costlier, whats getting cheaper for you
Union Budget 2026 brings changes affecting household expenses and consumer choices. Smartphones, sports goods, select drugs, and capital equipment may get cheaper, while alcohol, tobacco, and stock futures trading become costlier
Union Budget 2026: Defence allocation raised to Rs 7.8 lakh crore
Union Budget 2026 boosts Indias defence spending to Rs 7.8 lakh crore, a 15 per cent jump year-on-year. Capital outlay for military hardware rises 21.8 per cent, with duty waivers on aircraft raw materials to support Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Shubham Ranjane's T20 WC Homecoming: From Playing In Mumbai To Representing USA
Cricket World Cup League: Shubham Ranjane will walk into familiar territory at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 7, but in unfamiliar colours. Ranjane, 31 once played domestic cricket for Mumbai, and is in line to make his T20I debut - not for India, but for the United States of America on day one of the Mens T20 World Cup. For Ranjane, its a chance to face the team he once aspired to represent, at the very ground where he honed his game. When the World Cup schedule was announced, I came to know India and Sri Lanka are hosting it. But when fixtures were announced, India was in the same group as us and we are playing that game at Wankhede - knowing that, it was like a goosebump moment for me. I was also nervous as there are so many memories at Wankhede when I played for Mumbai for so many years. It's a historic stadium and playing at Wankhede is a very prestigious thing, Ranjane recalled in an exclusive conversation with IANS. For Ranjane, Wankhede is more than just a venue - its a place which built his cricketing identity after going through the grind of Mumbais circuit. To now walk back at the iconic venue as a USA player is a surreal twist. I dreamt about this after hearing that we have our first game there against India. Obviously, I manifested some things as well and there is excitement -it's like playing on a home ground and at the home venue, he said. Leaving India for the USA in mid-2022 wasnt an easy call for Ranjane, who once held an IPL contract with Rajasthan Royals in 2019. The lure of higher honours while playing cricket in the USA, and the chance to rub shoulders with big names convinced him to leave India. His family had long dreamt of him becoming a third-generation India player - his grandfather Vasant played seven Tests between 1958 and 1964, while his father Subhash turned out for India Under-19s, India A and Maharashtra. Ranjanes family now take immense pride in seeing him as an international cricketer. Being a third-generation cricketer and both of them representing India, it was everyone's dream in the family to be honest - like even the third member becomes bleed blue and get those India colours. But when they heard my name in the USA squad, they were also happy. That thought never came in their mind that he couldn't be an international player and now I'm also playing internationally, he said. The shift to the USA was a leap of faith for Ranjane, who left without worrying whether his career would soar or stumble. In Mumbai, he had thrived in a well-oiled cricketing ecosystem while in the USA, the infrastructure was barely taking shape. It was never an easy decision to leave Mumbai, as I played here for ages. Just lifting your two suitcases and you don't know where you are going like in which direction, or what are you thinking. To leave and settle in a different country - it's like starting from scratch. Just going into the States and thinking about playing cricket there it was not popular in the USA, though now it's growing very fast. When I was moving there, I didn't know that this day would come. I just went with my instinct and said, Okay, I have to make this decision. I have to move on. It was an emotional moment, but it wasn't that easy. You need to grow, move on and think about life like how you are going to make it, grow, accept that challenge and move forward - that was really a big decision. Now after getting eligible to play for the USA in the World Cup and making a name in the team for an ICC event - it's a high recognition thing, he elaborated. The challenges hit Ranjane straight away - in Mumbai, a single phone call was enough to line up practice partners or access facilities. In the USA, it was totally different. There are some things which you create for yourself and your game. I always believed that and when I moved to America, for example, I carried a plastic ball and cover patch. I used to order all things from India and its because it wasn't that easy. You don't have that easy access in America and now, it has been changing. You get heavy balls from India and I carried them for preparation. In India, there are partners - one call or message - there are few people who will stand beside you and say okay, let's practice together. It was a tough time in America, as you won't find such things there because the country is huge and cricket was not that popular, he said. Even weather differences became newer obstacles for Ranjane, who made an immediate impact by helping the Seattle Thunderbolts lift the MiLC title. We have played cricket when it rains in India. Here, when it rains, no one goes out of the house. If I wanted to play cricket in the rain for a little bit, I would get plastic balls and rubber balls and use all of that. It's very useful in playing cricket and that has helped me to grow as a player, he said. A call from USA skipper Monank Patel last year confirmed Ranjanes international debut through the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup League 2 ODI game against Nepal in Dubai. For Ranjane, the moment was overwhelming, as he was finally getting to play international cricket after going through the American grind. When Monank called and said that I have to be ready, I was super excited. I just looked back to 2022, when I moved to the USA and I never thought of moving for that purpose. But when the squad was announced, I was super proud and super happy in knowing that at last, my dream of becoming an international player is going to come true. It was like I have to be there and just have to do my job and be confident - whenever I get the first cap, I have to make an impact and that should be worth some memories you have for all of your life, he said. Perhaps the most layered emotion for Ranjane in USAs clash against India will be squaring off against Suryakumar Yadav - the current India T20I captain and his once long-time teammate in Mumbai. The light-hearted banter they once shared while being in the same side will now unfold across. I have played under his captaincy for many years and that's going to be a different feeling. We still have a banter going on. When we were playing together, we used to have a banter against the opponents. Now we are going to be each other's opponents. It's really going to be fun and that's going to be intense. Back in Mumbai, Ranjane's friends and family face the question that splits their loyalties. There are a lot of (tickets) demands. But the first question was, whom will you support? Obviously, it's a really tricky question. But the feeling they have is also due to seeing the games. For them, it's like watching our guys only at the Wankhede, but in different colours. They are all so much excited. Ranjane's rise has also been accelerated by exposure to franchise cricket around the world, including a stint with Texas Super Kings and Joburg Super Kings - the USA and South Africa arms of Chennai Super Kings. As per statistics by Cricket-21, since 2025, Ranjane has carved a reputation as an explosive finisher a strike-rate of 142 and slotting in anywhere from number four to seven. In that period, he amassed 426 runs in 18 innings at an average of 38.7, including three fifties across SA20, MLC and BPL stints against quality bowling line-ups. With his right-arm seam-up complementing his batting, he offers a handy fifth or sixth bowling option when conditions demand. That has definitely helped me to grow as a player. It's all about being my best version on the field and how to be that best version, I have learnt from Faf du Plessis and many players. Just being around them and few two-three things what they have in their mind about me and which gives me confidence has really helped me. Confidence is the most important part for me and if a person has confidence, you can achieve anything and can deliver anytime you want. You don't have that fear in mind; there is no second thought about this not happening. I always believe that just when you are confident, build that confidence and do lots of hard work. But doing the right things, and getting in the right pathway, that's the most important thing as a player. Like gaining their confidence and trust also, it's very important for us. It's a big thing when you gain trust and when they support you, its the highest backing you get. When you get that, you are the most dangerous player, and you play more fearlessly, he said. Before landing in Mumbai, USA fine-tuned their build-up with an extended camp in Sri Lanka, tailored to mirror Indian conditions and sharpen fitness levels. They will also play two warm-up games in Navi Mumbai - a venue close to Ranjanes heart, having represented DY Patil side for over a decade. For him, the 2026 T20 World Cup is bigger than personal milestones - its about pushing USA cricket forward and inspiring the next generation of American players. When USA qualified for Super Eights in 2024, and played against India and Pakistan, it was a proud feeling. It's a big thing when you get that platform to showcase your talent by playing against these countries and performing - it's really a breakthrough moment for a player. It had a huge impact on our domestic players because if you want to represent the country, and play in the World Cup and when you are playing against the toughest countries, the standards and competition level becomes really high, he said. As February 7 draws closer, Ranjanes mantra is simple - stay in the moment and make the most of every chance that comes his way. It's all about grabbing the opportunities. Once again I have got this opportunity and I am really looking forward to it. Talking about success, its about just staying in the present and working on a few things and just believing in those processes. The advice from his father and grandfather has also shaped his approach. Growing up and looking at them, I've been a good human and good player. I never saw my grandfather play, but when I used to talk about cricket, he just said Just keep believing in yourself, the hard work and just be in a positive mindset and don't let anything come into your mind negatively. Just keep smiling all day and do your work. It was the simple words he explained to me. Just live in the moment and go with the instinct - that's what my father kept telling me. Whatever your heart says, whatever you feel, just do it - whether it's right or wrong, we'll see later. But whatever you feel like doing, just do it and you don't have that hesitation or regret or anything afterwards for what you would have done after the decisions were made. The advice from his father and grandfather has also shaped his approach. Growing up and looking at them, I've been a good human and good player. I never saw my grandfather play, but when I used to talk about cricket, he just said Just keep believing in yourself, the hard work and just be in a positive mindset and don't let anything come into your mind negatively. Just keep smiling all day and do your work. It was the simple words he explained to me. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For Ranjane, the journey has come full circle, but now comes the bigger test: delivering on the biggest stage, in his hometown, against the country he once dreamt of representing. Article Source: IANS
Lack of tyre awareness behind fatal road accidents in Pune: Expert
Principal of IDTR said tyres are the only point of contact between a vehicle and the road, bearing the entire weight of the vehicle and playing a critical role in braking, stability and control
Union Budget 2026 highlights: Key announcements by FM Nirmala Sitharaman
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented Union Budget 2026, focusing on reforms, fiscal consolidation, high-speed rail corridors, rare earth and biopharma initiatives, and targeted tax relief for individuals and businesses
Interest on motor accident compensation exempt from income tax
In a major relief move, Union Budget 2026 exempts income tax on interest earned from motor accident compensation claims. The decision removes TDS, ensuring victims and families receive the full awarded amount without deductions
Govt extends Khelo India for 10 years, boosts sports manufacturing push
Union Budget 2026 extends the Khelo India Mission for 10 years and boosts funding for sports goods manufacturing. The move aims to strengthen infrastructure, nurture talent, generate jobs, and prepare India for global events like the 2036 Olympics
Fresh snowfall in higher reaches of South Kashmir, rains in plains
Parts of Kashmir received fresh snowfall in higher reaches and rain in the plains as night temperatures rose above freezing in Srinagar and other areas, while Gulmarg remained the coldest place. The weather department has forecast cloudy conditions with the possibility of light rain or snow over the next two days
Union Budget 2026: FM proposes extending revised ITR filing deadline to March 31
Presenting the Union Budget 2026 in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman said the time limit for submitting revised income tax returns would be extended from December 31 to March 31, subject to the payment of a nominal fee
Here`s what Finance Minister Sitharaman has proposed for the education sector
The Finance Minister announced the setting up of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools over the next five years to promote innovation, scientific temper, and hands-on learning among students
Union Budget 2026: Top 10 highlights you need to know
Union Budget 2026 seeks to touch multiple segments of society - from farmers, students and MSMEs to commuters, investors and healthcare professionals - while keeping long-term growth firmly in focus
Budget 2026: Govt proposes major overhaul of direct tax prosecution framework
The changes, announced as part of her speech on direct taxes, aim to decriminalise certain procedural non-compliances, reduce the severity of punishments, make penalties more proportionate, and ease the compliance burden on taxpayers
Budget 2026: No change in income tax slabs for salaried employees
The Finance Minister did not propose any revisions to Income Tax slabs or rates under either the old or new tax regime for FY 2026-27. The most important announcement for taxpayers is the rollout of the New Income Tax Act, 2025, which will replace the Income Tax Act, 1961, from April 1, 2026
Income Tax slabs after Budget 2026: What has changed?
While there is no revision in slabs, the Budget addresses several long-standing concerns of middle-class taxpayers through targeted relief measures, including a reduction in TCS rates and the introduction of new dividend-related deductions
Union Budget 2026: Rs 10,000 crore allocated to make India biopharma hub
Presenting the Budget in Parliament, Sitharaman said the initiative is aimed at creating a robust ecosystem for biopharma and biosimilars, strengthening domestic capabilities and boosting Indias global competitiveness in high-value pharmaceutical manufacturing
Union Budget 2026: New income tax law to come into force from April 1
Sitharaman said the new law will replace the six-decade-old Income Tax Act of 1961, with all changes announced in the current Budget being incorporated into the fresh legislation
Gaza civil defence says Israeli strikes kill 32 despite ongoing ceasefire
Israeli air strikes killed at least 32 people, including women and children, across Gaza on Saturday, according to the territorys civil defence agency. The attacks targeted residential buildings, shelters and a police station, despite a ceasefire entering its second phase earlier this month
US Embassy in India limits social media activity amid partial govt shutdown
The US Federal Government went into a partial shutdown early on Saturday (local time), hours after the US Senate met a last-minute deadline to approve a revised package of government-funding bills
Trump says feds wont intervene in protests in Democratic-led cities
But Saturday`s order comes as opposition to such tactics has grown, particularly in Minnesota`s Twin Cities region
Pakistan repatriates seven Indian prisoners via Attari-Wagah border
Earlier in January, India has repatriated a Pakistani national, allegedly imprisoned in India, via the Attari-Wagah border, Pakistan High Commission in India said
Earthquake of magnitude 3.0 strikes Bangladesh
As per the statement, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 20 km. The earthquake`s latitude was reported to be 24.85 North, and the longitude was reported to be 92.07 East
Nirmala Sitharaman delivers 84-minute speech in historic ninth Union Budget 2026
Despite the relatively shorter duration, Sitharaman continues to hold the distinction of delivering the longest Budget speech in Indian parliamentary history
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has cancelled his campaign for the upcoming Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections following the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. The elections, originally scheduled for February 5, will now take place on February 7, with counting on February 9.
UPI transactions surge 28 percent at 21.70 billion in Jan: NPCI
UPI transactions in January surged 28 percent year-on-year to 21.70 billion, with transaction value rising 21 percent to Rs 28.33 lakh crore. Daily transactions averaged 700 million, driven by strong growth in person-to-merchant payments and widespread QR adoption
Western Railway schedules five-hour fast line block, Mumbai commuters face disruptions
Mumbai commuters face disruptions Sunday as Western Railway schedules a five-hour block on fast lines between Churchgate and Mumbai Central for essential maintenance. Expect trains to reroute to slow lines, leading to some cancellations and short-terminations. Check station masters for a full list of affected services.
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has claimed responsibility for a shooting outside director Rohit Shetty's Mumbai residence, issuing a violent threat to Bollywood. This incident, mirroring past attacks, has prompted a large-scale police investigation and a review of security for industry figures. The gang warned of further escalation if their demands are not met.
Mumbai local services hit as Central Railway operates megablock
Central Railway's Mumbai division will implement a megablock on Sunday for essential engineering and maintenance work. The block will affect both the Main Line and Harbour Line, causing diversions and delays for suburban and mail/express services. Passengers are advised to note the timings and route changes.
FM Sitharaman proposes Rs 100-crore incentives for municipal bond issuance
The move aims to strengthen urban financing and promote greater investment in local infrastructure. In her ninth consecutive Union Budget, Sitharaman also announced the restructuring of public sector financial institutions
FM raises outlays for electronics compenent production to Rs 40,000 cr
The second phase will focus on producing equipment and materials, developing full-stack Indian intellectual property, and enhancing the semiconductor ecosystem. Sitharaman also highlighted plans for industry-led research and training centres to develop advanced technology and a skilled workforce
