Times of India

India has achieved a significant breakthrough in its fight against drug trafficking with the first-ever seizure of Captagon, dubbed the 'Jihadi drug', worth Rs 182 crore. Under 'Operation Ragepill', authorities intercepted 227.7 kg of the substance, destined for the Middle East, and arrested a foreign national. This operation underscores the government's zero-tolerance policy against narcotics.

The government increased fuel prices by Rs 3 per litre to support oil marketing companies facing losses due to high global crude oil prices and a weakening rupee. However, further rupee depreciation could negate these gains, with companies incurring significant daily losses. The price hike offers limited relief, covering only a fraction of projected losses.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is urging a focus on increasing the state's population, viewing children as national assets. He announced financial incentives, offering Rs 30,000 for a third child and Rs 40,000 for a fourth, to counter declining birth rates and an aging demographic. This policy aims to address a significant demographic shift.

Virat Kohli revealed the immense emotional weight lifted after Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally clinched their maiden IPL title after 18 years. He stated that a victory earlier in his career wouldn't have felt as special, highlighting the profound joy derived from overcoming decades of pressure and heartbreak alongside franchise icons and the city of Bengaluru.

An assistant professor from Lucknow University is accused of leaking examination papers and making inappropriate advances towards a female student. Viral audio clips allegedly capture the professor promising academic favors and leaked papers in exchange for meetings. The university has filed a complaint, leading to the professor's detention and an ongoing investigation.

Get ready for pricier meals as India's restaurants and delivery apps plan a 5-10% food cost increase from next week. Soaring fuel prices, coupled with LPG shortages and staff issues, are forcing businesses to pass on rising transportation, packaging, and input expenses. This move disrupts annual pricing cycles, impacting dining out and delivery costs.

As US President Trump returns from China, pressure mounts over Iran. Top aides are reportedly preparing options for renewed military action against Tehran if diplomacy falters, including intensified bombing and potential Special Operations deployments. Iran, meanwhile, signals readiness for conflict, while the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical concern for global oil prices.

US President Donald Trump announced the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as ISIS's global second-in-command, in a joint US-Nigerian operation. Trump stated the mission, executed at his direction, successfully removed a key terrorist leader who was planning attacks on Americans and destabilizing Africa. This operation significantly weakens ISIS's global network.

Madhya Pradesh High Court has declared the Bhojshala complex in Dhar a Hindu temple and Sanskrit learning center, granting exclusive daily worship rights to the Hindu community. The court overturned a 2003 ASI order restricting Hindu prayers. The Union government and ASI will manage the site, with the Muslim community offered alternative land for a mosque.

Akash Singh's IPL 2026 debut for Lucknow Super Giants was marked by a unique celebration involving a self-written paper chit after taking crucial wickets. While the gesture went viral, former CSK batter Ambati Rayudu criticized it as 'rubbish' and likened it to using cheat notes in an exam.

Taiwan's deputy foreign minister Chen Ming-chi stressed the island's commitment to peace and stability. He stated that Taiwan's future is decided by its people. US arms sales are guaranteed by the Taiwan Relations Act. President Trump expressed uncertainty about a major weapons sale to Taiwan. He also cautioned against a formal declaration of independence. Taiwan already considers itself sovereign.

Indian consumers may soon face higher prices as wholesale inflation surges, driven by global conflicts impacting commodity and energy costs. While retail inflation remains soft for now, a widening gap between wholesale and consumer price indices suggests businesses will likely pass on increased production expenses, leading to costlier everyday goods and services in the coming months.

Anthropic employees refused to sell their shares at the $350 billion tender offer earlier this year, and now we know why. The Claude maker has agreed a fresh $30 billion funding round at a $900 billion valuation, the Financial Times reported, nearly tripling its worth in three months. With revenue at $30 billion and an IPO expected by October, staff are sitting on a payday.

Shreyas Iyer's stellar IPL-2026 campaign, marked by consistent middle-order batting and composed chases, has positioned him for a potential return to the Indian T20I squad. Despite Punjab Kings' recent struggles, Iyer's individual performance, including five half-centuries, highlights his evolution as a reliable finisher and leader.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Netherlands for the second leg of his five-nation tour, aiming to deepen bilateral ties. He will hold talks with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, call on King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, and address the Indian community.

A 22-year-old NEET aspirant died by suicide in Sikar, with his family attributing his death to severe stress following the NEET exam cancellation due to a paper leak. Another 20-year-old MBBS aspirant was found dead in Lakhimpur Kheri, with his family also linking it to the NEET exam's cancellation and rescheduling, though police are investigating personal reasons.

A ride at a 'Disneyland fair' in Sasaram, Bihar, collapsed on Friday, resulting in injuries to several children and women. The injured were promptly taken to Sadar Hospital for treatment. Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident and the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed.