India's hopes of playing in the World Test Championship Final have been dashed after losing the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney. Australia, now confirmed for the WTC Final against South Africa in June 2025, secured their place with a decisive win. India, having failed to capitalise on earlier opportunities, remain third in the standings.
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Following the deadly Pahalgam attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a stern warning, vowing to identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers. Speaking in Bihar's Madhubani, Modi declared India's resolve to pursue them to the ends of the Earth, switching to English to address the international community. ""Every effort will be made to ensure justice is done, entire nation is firm in resolve," he said.
The Uttar Pradesh ATS has arrested Kumar Vikas from the Kanpur Ordnance Factory for allegedly leaking sensitive information to a suspected Pakistani agent, Neha Sharma. This incident, involving misuse of social media and encrypted communication platforms, poses a significant threat to national security.
Nidhi’s Grandmaa Secret presented their chemical-free hair oil on Shark Tank India, pitching for 70 lakhs in exchange for 2% equity. Despite tough questioning about their differentiation from other brands, Anupam offered 70 lakhs for 5% equity and 1% royalty. The founders emphasized the use of raw, fresh ingredients and a commitment to traditional remedies.
Switzerland has withdrawn the most-favored-nation clause for India under their double tax avoidance agreement. This comes after a 2023 Indian Supreme Court ruling against Nestle, impacting Indian companies invested in Switzerland. Dividend tax will rise from 5% to 10% starting January 1, 2025, potentially reducing their competitiveness and prompting other nations to follow suit.
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has backed Rohit Sharma to use his experience to overcome his current rough patch ahead of the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney. Despite Rohit's dipping form and bleak statistics in 2024, Pathan remains confident in his ability to turn things around and highlights his crucial role in the team.
Team India announced its squad for the ICC Champions Trophy and ODI series against England, excluding right-arm seamer Mohammed Siraj despite his recent regular appearances. Captain Rohit Sharma cited the need for bowlers effective across all phases, prioritising Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Arshdeep Singh. Uncertainty remains over Bumrah's fitness, with Harshit Rana temporarily replacing him.
Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin criticized the Centre for the draft UGC Regulations 2025, deeming it an attack on federalism. He opposed the expanded role of governors in appointing vice-chancellors and the inclusion of non-academicians in these positions, asserting that Tamil Nadu would resist both legally and politically.
Indirect talks between Iran and the United States have commenced in Oman, mediated by Omani officials, focusing on nuclear issues and sanctions relief. Iran's foreign ministry confirmed the discussions between Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Steve Witkoff, while emphasizing the need for an agreement that secures Iran's national interests.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) will replace defective medals from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The Monnaie de Paris, responsible for manufacturing the medals, has already replaced damaged ones reported since August. The medals' varnish issues stem from new regulations. Over 100 medals have been returned, and replacements will continue as needed, ensuring quality and consistency.
Infosys recently laid off 240 trainees due to their failure to meet internal assessment criteria, offering them transition assistance and outplacement services. As tech industry layoffs rise, companies are increasingly using outplacement firms to support retrenched employees amid digital transformation and workforce restructuring. This trend extends beyond IT, impacting sectors like pharma and food processing, reflecting broader economic challenges.