Every year, as the Finance Minister stands with that iconic budget briefcase – or, more recently, the red cloth that suspiciously resembles a laptop bag from an artisanal market – Twitter transforms into a battleground. Economists, pseudo-economists, WhatsApp University graduates, and that one cousin who did an MBA but now sells artisanal pickles all chime in with their expert takes.
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In a recent interview, Kane Williamson, a modern "Fab Four" member, identified his "upcoming Fab Five" for cricketing greatness. He listed Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rachin Ravindra, Harry Brook, and Cameron Green as players with the potential to become future legends. These young stars have already begun making significant impacts with their unique skills and performances in Test cricket.
Mohammed Shami is set to return to India's squad for the T20I series against England after a 14-month absence due to a knee injury. Fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are to be rested for the series. Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy are confirmed for the T20 series.
In 2024, around the world, various protests and social movements highlighted demands for justice and rights. Major events included Bangladesh's governmental resignation, Russian anti-Putin protests, Afghan women's dissent against regressive laws, university pro-Palestinian demonstrations, and resistance against LGBTQ+ discrimination.
Muslim leaders and organizations object to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, asserting it threatens the autonomy of Waqf properties dedicated for religious and charitable purposes. They claim the Bill aims to seize such lands and hampers Muslim religious liberties, labeling it as deceptive and unconstitutional.
The alleged love triangle between Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, and Rekha remains one of Bollywood’s most talked-about controversies. In a recent conversation on the Meri Saheli podcast, veteran author and film historian Hanif Zaveri shared intriguing insights into how Rekha entered Amitabh’s life, Jaya’s unwavering stand, and the eventual fallout.
Stock market crash: Indian stock markets have experienced a significant decline since late September, wiping out all gains made over the past year. Nifty 50 and Sensex are down 1.4% and 1.2%, respectively on yearly returns charts. The fall has impacted investor confidence, with volumes dropping over 40%.
In the Karnataka assembly, 18 BJP MLAs were suspended for demanding a judicial probe into a "honey-trap" scandal involving a minister. Speaker UT Khader cited disrespectful behavior. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah assured a high-level investigation. Minister MB Patil defended the suspension, while Home Minister Parameshwara committed to a thorough probe after complaints are officially filed.
RBI permits users of full-KYC prepaid payment instruments (PPIs) to make and receive UPI payments via third-party mobile apps. The decision expands digital payment options, improves flexibility for PPI holders, and ensures transactions are authenticated using existing PPI credentials, enhancing convenience in financial operations.
Apple is anticipated to launch the iPhone 17 series, including the budget-friendly iPhone 17 Air, in September 2025. The series may feature major design updates, new display sizes, upgraded cameras, and the latest A19 chipset, enhancing both performance and connectivity.
Intelligence sources reveal increased Hamas activity in Pakistan, including visits by senior functionaries to Jaish-e-Muhammed headquarters and Pakistani Army facilities. These visits, along with gatherings in PoK, suggest an attempt to link the jihadi campaign in J&K with the Palestinian fight against Israel. Pakistan has also shown support for Hamas, with leaders addressing Parliament and hosting Palestinian prisoners.