Times of India

According to the government, India has around 60 days of petroleum supplies in various forms including strategic reserves. But if 20% of the world’s crude supply remains disrupted over 2.5 months of the war, where is India getting its oil from?

An alleged rape accused in Ghaziabad received a triumphant welcome from supporters upon his bail, with videos showing him being carried on shoulders amidst cheers and a procession. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the state government, calling the reception reprehensible and highlighting the perceived hypocrisy.

India and the UAE have significantly deepened their defence ties in 2026, moving towards joint industrial production of advanced weaponry and enhanced maritime and cyber security. This strategic partnership, backed by substantial UAE investment, aims to bolster India's defence manufacturing and secure vital trade routes amidst regional instability.

India’s Test squad for the Afghanistan match will be led by Shubman Gill, with KL Rahul replacing Rishabh Pant as vice-captain.

India have announced squads for the Afghanistan one-off Test and ODI series, with Ravindra Jadeja rested from the series. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli feature in the ODI squad, though Rohit and Hardik Pandya’s participation remains subject to fitness clearance. Shubman Gill will lead India in both formats, while Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey and Prince Yadav are among the notable inclusions.

India's ambitious piped natural gas expansion is significantly behind schedule, with city gas distribution companies connecting only a fraction of the government's daily target. Acute shortages of certified gas plumbers and weak consumer uptake, particularly in rental housing, are major impediments to achieving the 2030 goal.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend the BRICS summit in New Delhi on September 12-13. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov confirmed his participation in the national capital. This visit marks a significant diplomatic event for India amidst global geopolitical shifts and growing BRICS collaboration. Details on his schedule are anticipated.

Europe faces a critical two-year deadline to build its own AI infrastructure. Mistral AI's Arthur Mensch warns of US technology dependence if Europe fails to act. Control over chips, energy, and computing power is key to AI competition. Failure could leave Europe reliant on American digital services. Mistral is working to expand Europe's AI capacity.

A Punjabi singer, Inder Kaur, was found dead in Neelon Canal five days after her alleged kidnapping at gunpoint. Her car, found nearby with blood stains, suggests she was murdered before being dumped. Police have arrested the father and friend of her former boyfriend, Sukhwinder Singh, who recently returned from Canada.

A US-Israeli war with Iran has triggered significant global economic fallout, with companies reporting at least $25 billion in losses due to soaring oil prices and disrupted trade routes. Businesses worldwide are implementing cost-cutting measures, including price hikes and reduced production, as the conflict impacts various sectors, particularly airlines.

Meta is laying off around 8,000 employees on Wednesday, May 20, with notification emails going out in three regional waves starting at 4 AM local time. A leaked memo from HR chief Janelle Gale tells North American staff to work from home as the cuts roll out. Meanwhile, 7,000 workers are being reassigned to four new AI-focused organisations as Mark Zuckerberg restructures Meta around flatter teams, fewer managers, and a $145 billion AI bet.

A severe Ebola outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, has claimed 130 lives with over 500 suspected cases. The World Health Organization warns of high risk to neighboring nations, stressing human-to-human transmission via bodily fluids and contact with infected animals. Emergency response systems are being activated to combat the escalating crisis.

Trinamool Congress candidate Jahangir Khan has withdrawn his nomination for the Falta re-poll, days before voting. The Election Commission had previously scrapped the original polls due to severe electoral offenses and subversion of the democratic process. Observer reports highlighted significant irregularities, including EVM tampering and voter intimidation. This development follows criticism from West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

Ahead of a crucial IPL 2026 clash, Rohit Sharma lightened the mood with a hilarious impression of KKR coach Abhishek Nayar during Mumbai Indians' training. While Rohit's antics brought laughter, Kolkata Knight Riders face immense pressure to win against MI to keep their playoff hopes alive, despite a recent resurgence.

Economists say that if the situation does not improve in the coming days, then more hikes may be in the offing. However, the approach of gradual hikes in petrol and diesel prices is to avoid an immediate inflation shock to the economy.

The Supreme Court dismissed pleas to recall its stray dog relocation and sterilization order, issuing directions to states to augment infrastructure. The court allowed euthanasia for rabid or dangerous stray dogs, emphasizing the need for expert assessment and adherence to animal welfare laws.

As Indian football faces uncertainty, 148 top-tier players, including captain Sandesh Jhingan, will be out of contract on May 31 with no renewal discussions. With negotiations stalled between clubs and the AIFF over the commercial partner, there's no clear roadmap for next season. Players and staff fear job losses with clubs seriously contemplating closing down.

The Indian Air Force has received a new fleet of Mahindra Scorpio Classic S11 SUVs, distinguished by a striking Air Force Blue paint job. These rugged, rear-wheel-drive vehicles, powered by a 130 bhp diesel engine, are a familiar sight in defense and government services. Spotted on Delhi roads, these specially finished Scorpios stand out, showcasing their unique military livery.