Times of India

Maharashtra has seen a rise in Covid-19 cases, mostly mild, over recent days. Experts note the virus now follows influenza-like patterns with periodic spikes. Most positive cases were detected during physician-advised investigations or pre-operative assessments. This recent uptick is the first noticeable increase in Covid cases since around 2023. Hospitals are also observing increased cases of influenza and other infections.

Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1, India's first private orbital rocket, is scheduled for launch. This launch occurs 46 years after ISRO's SLV-3 mission from Sriharikota. The Vikram-1 rocket is 22 meters tall and built with advanced composite structures. This maiden orbital test flight aims to gather crucial flight data for future development. The mission marks a significant milestone for India's burgeoning private space sector.

Spain have eased concerns over Lamine Yamal's fitness after the teenager trained separately ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina. The RFEF and coach Luis de la Fuente insist the session was precautionary, with Pedro Porro also on an individual programme. Both players are expected to be fit as Spain chase a fourth World Cup title on Sunday.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has dismissed speculation about Rohit Sharma's ODI retirement. He confirmed that Rohit remains a regular member of India's ODI team. Rohit will continue to represent the country as long as he is in the scheme of things. The selectors are assessing all players for the 2027 World Cup preparations. Therefore, the Lord's ODI will not be Rohit's final match.

GPS collars track pronghorn movement near a New Mexico solar project. Fences around the solar farm present a significant barrier to these animals. Pronghorn typically crawl under fences rather than jumping over them. Researchers suggest simple fence modifications could aid wildlife movement. These changes would help animals use their traditional migration paths.

Veteran actor and politician Shatrughan Sinha has publicly praised daughter Sonakshi Sinha for speaking in support of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak issue. Following the support from Sonakshi Sinha and actor Omi Vaidya, Sonam Wangchuk's team responded on behalf of the activist, expressing gratitude for their solidarity.

Tension arose in Ponduru village after a woman's family brought her body to her boyfriend's residence. They demanded he marry her corpse before her final rites could be performed. The woman, Keerthi, died by suicide after her boyfriend reportedly refused to marry her. Her family claimed this was her dying wish before her cremation. The family eventually conducted the cremation after Sai's family agreed to the rites.

Actor R Madhavan notes youth disconnect from Indian cinema. Young audiences prefer Japanese anime and Korean content over local films. Madhavan believes filmmakers must create more inspirational stories. His upcoming film GDN highlights inventor Gopalaswamy Doraiswamy Naidu. The film explores Naidu's contributions to Indian industry and innovation.

Made in La Masia: Lamine Yamal vs Lionel Messi. How a photograph captures the unlikely meeting of two of Barcelona's most famous graduates. Read more in today's Offside.

Apple has reclaimed its position as the world's most valuable company. This shift reflects investor focus moving beyond initial AI hardware gains. Investors are now prioritizing memory chips and data center infrastructure development. Nvidia experienced a significant stock price decline, losing its top valuation. Apple's recent surge is attributed to its consumer ecosystem and AI advancements.

Sri Lanka Cricket reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on corruption following an arrest. Former India U-19 star Manjot Kalra faces allegations of corrupt practice during the LPL. The ongoing investigation will not impact the tournament's scheduled continuation. Sri Lanka Cricket pledged full cooperation with the police special investigation unit. Robust anti-corruption measures remain in place to protect the league's integrity.

The index evaluates states and UTs across eight key pillars: infrastructure, business climate, resources, government policy, regulatory ease, institutional environment, financial health and environmental resilience.

The BCCI honoured Sir Garfield Sobers, a true cricket icon, after his passing. He was remembered as one of the game's greatest all-rounders ever. Sobers left an enduring legacy which will continue to inspire many. Cricket West Indies also posted a heartfelt farewell to the legend. His remarkable career redefined greatness in the sport.

An NRI's post detailing Indian office culture challenges has resonated widely online. Many professionals shared similar experiences after returning to India from abroad. Common issues include meeting delays and a different sense of workplace urgency. Observations also touched upon office dynamics and feedback reception among colleagues. These shared experiences highlight a familiar reality for many Indian workers.