Gyanesh Kumar, a retired IAS officer, has taken charge as the 26th chief election commissioner of India. He emphasised the importance of voting as the foundational step for nation-building, urging all citizens aged 18 and above to participate in elections. Kumar's appointment has sparked political controversy, with Congress questioning the modified selection procedure.
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Several explosions occurred due to a fire in a truck carrying LPG cylinders near the Dharavi bus depot in Mumbai. Over 20 gas cylinders exploded, lighting up the night sky and damaging nearby vehicles. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, though the incident caused significant concern among residents.
Virat Kohli's unbeaten 73 guided Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a crucial victory over Punjab Kings. Kohli anchored the innings with Devdutt Padikkal, who scored 61, forming a match-defining partnership. Virender Sehwag praised Kohli's ability to finish games under pressure, highlighting his match-winning temperament and consistency in chases, making him a true legend.
Virat Kohli returned to India's playing eleven for the second ODI against England in Cuttack, replacing Yashasvi Jaiswal. India lead the three-match series 1-0, as England opted to bat first after winning the toss. The other change in India's XI was Varun Chakravarthy making his ODI debut, replacing fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav.
Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath labelled endorsing invaders like Aurangzeb as treason, emphasizing respect for India's cultural heritage. His remarks follow the controversy over the Mughal emperor's tomb removal in Maharashtra, amid violent clashes in Nagpur where thirty-three police personnel were injured, and fifty arrests were made.
Supreme Court has affirmed Calcutta High Court's decision to cancel the 2016 recruitment of more than 25,700 teachers and non-teaching staff in West Bengal. The process was found to be tainted with manipulation and fraud. Non-tainted candidates won't have to refund salaries. They can apply to their previous government positions, though their disputed employment period won't be compensated.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh held a phone conversation with his US counterpart Pete Hegseth to discuss enhancing bilateral defence ties. They agreed on boosting technological partnerships, defence industry integration, and combined military drills. Both nations also plan to develop a comprehensive defence cooperation framework for 2025-2035.
Manmohan Singh's foreign policy emphasized India's development priorities, resulting in the 2008 civil nuclear deal with the US. He focused on stable, long-term relationships, regional cooperation, and economic integration. Singh significantly improved India's relations with the Gulf, Asean, and China, and nearly resolved the Kashmir dispute through back-channel negotiations.
An expert panel from the environment ministry has conditionally approved the amendment of the green clearance for Sikkim's 1,200 MW Teesta Hydroelectric Project Stage-III. The revised plan includes redesigning the dam for enhanced resilience, following its destruction by flash floods linked to a glacial lake outburst in October 2023.
Sachin Tendulkar's daughter, Sara, cheered for India and was seen alongside Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh on day 1 of the rain-affected third India vs Australia Test in Brisbane. With only 13.2 overs played, Australia reached 28/0 after Rohit Sharma opted to field. Persistent rain forced early stumps, but extended play is scheduled for the remaining days.
Ishan Kishan hammered a stunning 78-ball 134, leading Jharkhand to an eight-wicket Vijay Hazare Trophy victory over Manipur. His aggressive innings, featuring 16 fours and six sixes, propelled Jharkhand past the 254-run target in just 28.3 overs. Kishan's century and captaincy reaffirm his claim for an India recall.