India's WTC Final chances: What South Africa's win over Australia means

South Africa’s innings win over Australia has tightened the World Test Championship final race. Australia remain top, while India sit fifth with seven Tests left against New Zealand and Australia. India need 62 points to reach a 60 PCT and cannot lose more than two matches. They also need at least two of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa to drop points.

2 ECs complained against poll panel officer, but Cabinet Secretariat took no action: RTI

2 ECs complained against poll panel officer, but Cabinet Secretariat took no action: RTI

Kargil, minorities and Kashmir: India's three-pronged message to Pak at UN

Kargil, minorities and Kashmir: India's three-pronged message to Pak at UN

'Shaurya commandos' prepared: ITBP chief flags ‘ongoing’ China faceoff along Arunachal border

Sudan’s RSF fighters deliberately targeted atleast 43 hospitals during el-Fasher siege: Report

A recent BBC investigation has uncovered alarming evidence of the RSF's assault on numerous healthcare facilities in el-Fasher, Sudan. The findings reveal egregious breaches of international humanitarian law and suggest potential war crimes. The conflict has tragically resulted in healthcare workers being killed, injured, or kidnapped, significantly worsening the humanitarian crisis. UN officials have characterized the situation as possessing attributes of genocide due to persistent ethnic hostilities.

2 Election Commissioners complained against poll panel officer, but Cabinet Secretariat took no action: RTI

'No standing to lecture India': New Delhi hits out at Pakistan over minority rights at UN

Congress defaming India to shield Nehru-Gandhi family: PM Modi

“Dimagi naxals have captured Congress so much that it has lost its ability to think. Those who used to cause destruction in forests are now determined to wreak havoc on the country through Congress,” PM Modi said, referring to hardcore Left elements accused of being sympathetic to Maoists and now vocal in protests against EC and govt.

In call with Israeli counterpart, PM Modi says urgent need to restore West Asia peace

PM Modi said he had received acall from Netanyahu during which the leaders reviewed the sustained momentum in bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the partnership. Modi did not mention Netanyahu’s invitation in his post on the conversation. “We exchanged views on developments in West Asia and underscored the urgent need to restore peace and stability in the region,” Modi said on X.

Will back all meaningful efforts for Ukraine peace, PM Modi assures Poland's Tusk

PM Modi and his Polish counterpart Tusk expressed deepest concern in a joint statement over the war in Ukraine, including its tragic humanitarian consequences and the impact on Global South. In his media statement, Modi assured Tusk that whether it is Ukraine or West Asia, India will continue to support every meaningful effort for peace.

From Jan 1, WhatsApp, Telegram won’t work without SIM cards, govt issues guidelines

The move is to curb cross-border cyber frauds, phishing, digital arrest scams using Indian mobile numbers and enhance telecom cyber security. Apple has updated iOS with a software patch to help detect when an iPhone is operating without a physical SIM card to abide with the rules. It is learnt Signal has not yet responded to govt notices.

Govt plans colour-coded driving licence for Indians, foreigners

Life insurance policies, too, would no longer be accepted as proof. Proposing sweeping changes to the driving licence (DL) regime under Motor Vehicles Rules, the road transport ministry Wednesday issued a draft notification to raise the pass mark for the online safe-driving tutorial assessment from the current 60% to 75%.

Centre flags data gap, regulatory hurdles in curbing hospital mark-ups

The Union govt has told the SC in its affidavit that margins on hospital consumables can range from 100% to 1,000% or more, highlighting concerns over the high mark-ups patients often face on supplies used during treatment. However, a senior official told TOI that the govt does not have the data needed to assess margins across hospital supplies and determine whether wider controls are warranted.

Ontario farmer rejects C$16 million offer to protect his 164-acre fruit farm

Charles Stevens and his family have decided to protect Wilmot Orchards by placing a conservation easement on the property. This easement effectively restricts future development for nearly 1,000 years, ensuring continued agricultural use. Their decision counters pressures from developers seeking to convert farmland into housing. The Stevens family aims to preserve the land for future generations of farmers.

Finnish watchmaker Kari Voutilainen’s limited-edition steel watch sells for $1.016 million at auction

At a recent Phillips auction, an exquisite stainless-steel timepiece crafted by renowned watchmaker Kari Voutilainen commanded an impressive $1.016 million, far surpassing its estimated value. The Voutilainen 28Sport Limited Edition features a stunning blue guilloché dial complemented by a striking black onyx center. Originally acquired in 2021, this watch's sale underscores the increasing allure of exceptional and rare watches within the collector community.

Portland man turns $48,412 backyard makeover into $85,000 rental business

Rob Nachbar skillfully turned his once-simple backyard in Portland into a thriving rental space known as Pong Springs. This five-year renovation, which cost $48,412, prioritized weather-resistant structures and enhanced privacy features. Since its launch on Swimply, Nachbar has generated approximately $106,000 in revenue. The yard not only hosts various events but also provides the family with a serene private retreat—combining leisure and financial success.

'Lifting sanctions will make Putin stronger': Zelenskyy on Trump ties

Jason Momoa buys Queenstown estate for NZ$15 million, NZ$3.5 million above valuation

Jason Momoa has recently acquired a significant property in Queenstown, New Zealand for NZ$15 million. The estate, formerly owned by Sir Sam Neill, demonstrates the increasing interest in the local real estate market. Property values in the region have risen significantly, attracting overseas buyers. Momoa has deep connections to New Zealand, having visited frequently for leisure and work. He has also invested in the local film industry and nightlife scene.

Texas farmer grows from 27 to 10,000 sheep by grazing solar farms across 40,000 acres

JR Howard experienced hardships early on with only a small number of sheep, making it tough to earn a living. However, after landing a grazing contract with solar farms, he expanded his flock and income significantly. This eco-friendly grazing method is being embraced by renewable energy companies as a cost-effective way to manage vegetation, while farmers benefit from expansive grazing land without hefty property expenses.

California family spends $4,000 and 200 hours turning its yard into a free Jurassic Park attraction

In Granada Hills, a family has dedicated $4,000 to create an elaborate Jurassic Park-themed display for Halloween. After investing over 200 hours, they've constructed life-sized dinosaur replicas and an automated escape show, complete with grand entrance gates. Open to the public at no cost, this attraction fosters community spirit as neighbors flock to capture the experience and enjoy this festive installation.

Media Losses Cloud Empire: MrBeast’s $5bn business leans on his fame; long-term durability in doubt

MrBeast has transformed his YouTube fame into a business empire valued at $5 billion, spanning chocolate, television and financial technology. His Feastables brand generated $250 million in sales and over $20 million in profit in 2024. However, his media business lost nearly $80 million despite strong revenue. With major investor backing and a fintech acquisition reaching seven million users, MrBeast faces the challenge of turning online popularity into sustainable, profitable businesses.

'Keep it up': Trump backs Ramaswamy's attack ad against Ohio rival

In his post, Trump did not directly address the allegations of abuse but attacked Acton, writing: "I suggested, on the other hand, that Vivek should keep it up, and let everyone listen to the mother of a defective, dishonest, and incapable Candidate, explain how the daughter is a DISASTER who, uncontrollably, lies, cheats, and steals!"

'He put it back': Trump says Ukraine's Starlink restored, stays silent on Musk

Ukraine depends heavily on Starlink for communications between military units, coordinating operations and receiving early warnings during Russian missile attacks. The satellite-based network also supports the use of drones, which Ukraine deploys both to strike Russian targets and to defend against incoming attacks. Disruptions to connectivity can therefore affect the military's ability to operate drones and respond to Russian assaults.