Times of India

Colombia booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after defeating DR Congo 1-0 in their Group K clash on Wednesday. The South American side made it two wins from two matches after previously beating Uzbekistan 3-1. With six points from their opening two games, Colombia have secured qualification for the knockout stage with one group match still to play.

A grocery store owner in Chhattisgarh has confessed to a chilling serial poisoning spree that claimed eight lives over four months. Ramsahay Jaiswal allegedly used borax powder mixed in liquor to eliminate acquaintances over petty grievances, including loan burdens, perceived black magic, political arguments, and land disputes. He even feigned concern for his victims. The killings were uncovered after a pattern of deaths emerged, leading to his arrest and confession.

Global jet fuel supplies are facing significant pressure due to geopolitical events and refinery limitations, according to McKinsey. This is driving up costs for airlines, with potential airfare hikes of 20-25% expected as fuel prices surge. Inventories remain low, and key exporting regions are restricting shipments, creating a challenging outlook for the summer travel season.

Actor R Madhavan received the prestigious Padma Shri from President Droupadi Murmu, a moment shared with his family. His exquisite 18-karat rose gold Jalsa Nebula watch, featuring a miniature painting inspired by Jaipur's Hawa Mahal and valued at Rs 40 lakhs, stole the spotlight. Madhavan expressed profound gratitude for the honour, dedicating it to his supporters and the world of cinema.

Maharashtra's homebuyers now have access to MahaCRITI, the new online hub replacing the previous portal for MahaRERA services. With this digital transformation, users can easily find project details, developer information, and submit complaints. This initiative is designed to enhance efficiency, enabling buyers to confirm project registrations and monitor their concerns. Any pending applications from the old system have been closed but may be refiled through the new platform.

In a remarkable turn of events, Shubman Gill now ranks second in the ICC ODI batting rankings, overtaking fellow Indian star Virat Kohli, who drops to third. Gill showcased his exceptional skills versus Afghanistan, scoring a century and claiming Player of the Series honors. Rohit Sharma follows closely at fourth place. Kohli's injury has created this opportunity for Gill, as they gear up to face England soon.

The BJP has strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of echoing Pakistan's propaganda regarding the Rafale jets during Operation Sindoor. The party highlighted a recent IAF tender for support for all 36 Rafale jets as proof that Pakistan's claims of shooting them down were false. BJP leaders argue Gandhi questioned the Indian government instead of demanding evidence from Islamabad, thereby legitimizing an adversary's disinformation campaign.

During Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde's inspection of waterlogged Gandhi Market, a civic staffer fell into a channel but was quickly rescued. The incident sparked political criticism, with an MP accusing the mayor of inaction and corruption. Despite the mishap, officials stated the situation was managed. The area, prone to flooding, is now equipped with a recently commissioned ₹19 crore underground pumping station designed to handle heavy rainfall.

The soaring temperatures in the UK are increasingly dangerous for dogs, especially for breeds like French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, Chow Chows, and Saint Bernards. Their unique physical traits make it challenging for them to manage heat, raising the risk of heatstroke. Dog owners should ensure their pets stay cool indoors, have plenty of water, and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day to prevent health hazards.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has vehemently denied allegations of "sacrilegious conduct," calling them a "dirty politics" campaign by rivals. He stated that a viral video controversy, linked to an alleged Rs 10 lakh deal for a forensic report, is being exploited to tarnish his image. Mann insists the person in the video is an actor, not him, and accuses opposition parties of using religion for political gain.

Following a tragic fire that claimed 15 lives, the Lucknow Development Authority has posted a demolition notice on the Aliganj building. The structure, approved for residential use, was allegedly operating commercially. An inquiry is underway into officials' roles regarding past violations and the revocation of a previous demolition order. Authorities are also investigating broader lapses that allowed the establishment to function.

Joe Root has reclaimed the world's top Test batting ranking, dethroning teammate Harry Brook after a stellar performance in the recent England-New Zealand Test. This marks Root's 12th stint at No. 1. He now aims to solidify his position in the series decider at Trent Bridge, where England also seeks to improve their World Test Championship standing after a slow over-rate penalty.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have spent nearly two decades battling for football supremacy. This time, the contest is about money. Both legends have crossed the billionaire mark and stand among the richest athletes in the world. Their fortunes have surged through football contracts, sponsorships, business ventures, and social media influence. While Ronaldo is believed to hold a slight edge in total wealth, Messi is not far behind in this remarkable financial race.

A massive rescue operation is underway in Kolkata's Taratala area after an under-construction warehouse collapsed, trapping several people. Emergency services, including NDRF and army personnel, are on-site, using heavy machinery to clear debris and search for survivors. Four individuals have been rescued so far. The state government has established control rooms and released helpline numbers for the incident.

Global crude oil prices have plunged to four-month lows, driven by improved tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and anticipation of increased Iranian oil exports. This easing of supply disruption fears has led to significant drops in Brent and WTI futures. Despite this, underlying geopolitical uncertainties persist, with investors closely monitoring US-Iran negotiations and inventory data for future market direction.

India is actively seeking foreign currency inflows by encouraging its diaspora to deposit funds. Banks are now permitted to offer substantial leverage on these special foreign-currency deposits, with potential returns exceeding 6% and leveraged rates above 10%. This initiative aims to bolster foreign exchange reserves amidst global economic uncertainties and has the potential to attract over $80 billion.

On Truth Social, Donald Trump delivered a stern warning, claiming America will 'NEVER' shift towards communism. This statement follows significant victories for progressive candidates endorsed by New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Trump's recent approach toward Mamdani has been surprisingly pragmatic, despite a history of vocal criticisms, highlighting the persistent ideological split between them.