Times of India

India has achieved a significant milestone in defense technology with the successful demonstration of a 30-kilowatt laser weapon system capable of neutralizing aerial threats like drones and missiles. Developed by the DRDO, this directed-energy weapon is ready for production and deployment, placing India among a select group of nations with advanced laser capabilities.

In Etawah, police arrested two individuals for the murder of a woman who had invested in a property through one of the accused. When she requested her money back, the property dealer and his accomplice allegedly lured her, intoxicated her, and strangled her. The perpetrators disposed of the body in the Yamuna River and destroyed her scooter.

Chinese officials have admitted to conducting cyber attacks on US infrastructure, known as "Volt Typhoon," during a private meeting. This operation, linked to China's military, targeted critical sectors and maintained covert access to the US electric grid. The US also identified another campaign, "Salt Typhoon," targeting American telecommunications networks.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru played Rajasthan Royals wearing green jerseys. This promoted environmental sustainability. Rajat Patidar chose to bowl first after winning the toss. The green kit is part of RCB's "Go Green" initiative. It raises awareness about conservation. The jersey is made from recycled polyester. RCB is a carbon-neutral franchise. They monitor emissions from various sources.

Kerala High Court lawyer P G Manu, recently granted bail in an alleged rape case, was found dead in Kollam. Police suspect suicide at his rented accommodation after junior advocates discovered him. Manu, previously a senior government pleader and NIA counsel, faced accusations of sexually assaulting a client, leading to his resignation last year.

Wrestler-turned-politician Vinesh Phogat, disqualified from the Paris Olympics, had accepted a Rs 4 crore cash prize from the Haryana government, equivalent to an Olympic silver medallist's benefits. Phogat, now a Congress MLA, chose the cash award over other options like a government job or land plot. She has hit out at social media trolls for

A devastating explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Anakapalle district's Kailasapatnam village has claimed the lives of eight individuals and left seven others injured. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, igniting a massive fire that engulfed the entire unit.

Karnataka's Deputy CM, DK Shivakumar, has stated that the state government will not make any hasty decisions regarding the 'caste census' report. The report, which was recently presented to the cabinet, suggests increasing the OBC quota to 51%. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge refrained from commenting until he reviews the report, while dominant communities express reservations about the survey.

A 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar early Sunday, causing residents to flee their homes near the epicenter. This tremor follows a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake on March 28, which killed thousands and exacerbated the country's humanitarian crisis. The recent quake shook buildings and damaged ceilings, adding to the challenges faced by a nation already grappling with conflict and displacement.

Shardul Thakur has defended bowlers against criticism from commentators, emphasising the increasing prevalence of high scores in modern cricket. He highlighted the team's successful defense of scores despite missing key players, attributing their success to nerve and belief. Thakur also suggested commentators should review their own records before criticising players.

A devastating Russian ballistic missile strike on Sumy, Ukraine, resulted in over 31 fatalities and 83 injuries, including children, on Palm Sunday. President Zelenskyy shared a horrific video of the aftermath, showing widespread destruction and casualties, and urgently appealed to the world for a firm response. The video showed several dead bodies and injured being rescued, cars engulfed in flames and the street littered with debris—shards of glass, pieces of concrete, and tree branches thrown by the explosion.

Hardik Pandya fulfilled his promise to Kashvee Gautam, gifting her a customized bat weighing 1100 grams. He presented the bat before Mumbai Indians' clash against Delhi Capitals, congratulating her on her first call-up to the Indian team following a stellar WPL season with Gujarat Giants. Pandya encouraged her to play well and represent India.

A controversy has erupted in Punjab after Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa claimed that 50 bombs had reached the state, with 18 already exploded. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann demanded Bajwa reveal his source, questioning if he had ties to Pakistan.

The Trump administration, pursuing its deeply skeptical approach to climate change, wants to severely cut back the research arm of a government agency that plays a pivotal role in global climate science, US media reported Friday. The White House also wants to make budget cuts to a branch of NASA that is tasked with using satellites to study and monitor the effects of climate change, according to media reports.

Nasa released stunning nighttime images from the International Space Station, showcasing illuminated regions across the globe. One captivating photograph features India, glowing with city lights under a starlit sky. The series also includes views of the cloud-covered Midwest United States, Southeast Asia, and Canada with a faint green aurora, sparking social media appreciation.

In an electrifying IPL double-header, Nicholas Pooran's explosive 61 off 34 propelled Lucknow Super Giants to victory against Gujarat Titans, though one of his sixes unfortunately injured a spectator. With the win, LSG moved themselves to third in the IPL points table while GT dropped to second place.

American importers are reeling from President Trump's sudden tariff hike on Chinese goods, with some fearing devastating consequences. Companies like Learning Resources and MGA Entertainment face soaring costs, potentially leading to price increases, production cuts, and even layoffs. The unpredictable tariffs threaten supply chains and could trigger inflation, impacting US economic growth and consumer sentiment.