Times of India

India plans to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers to deepen trade with the US amid impending tariff threats from Trump. India is open to reducing automobile import duties but not to zero immediately. Amid trade tensions, India sees opportunities for exploring alternative sourcing, especially from Canada, and boosting exports and attracting American investments.

India and New Zealand are set to clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final at Dubai International Stadium on March 9. While both teams are strong, AI chatbots predict India as the likely winner due to their balanced squad, key players like Kohli and Bumrah, and recent success in ICC tournaments.

Elon Musk’s close political ties with President Trump have caused significant backlash among Tesla’s traditional customer base, leading to a sharp decline in sales and stock value. Tesla’s US sales dropped 7% in 2024, with similar declines in other key markets. The CEO’s political endorsements and controversial comments are eroding the brand’s appeal.

In Dubai, India face New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final, aiming for their third title. India’s spin attack and Virat Kohli’s chasing prowess make them favourites; however, New Zealand, led by Kane Williamson and Mitchell Santner, pose a formidable challenge. Both teams are prepared for a thrilling, high-stakes match on Sunday.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam claims the Mumbai Congress faces severe financial trouble, with unpaid rent and bills, and employees without salaries for months. He attributes the crisis to ineffective leadership and a bad alliance with Shiv Sena (UBT), predicting further decline for Congress in Maharashtra.

With just two sleeps until the Champions Trophy final, the Dubai ground staff are preparing the playing square diligently. Despite the pitch being previously used, the ECB ensures a two-week rest period for pitches. The hot weather is influencing pitch conditions, with ground staff taking measures to protect it under covers, anticipating slower behavior for the title clash.

India signed a $248 million contract with Russia for procuring 1,000 HP engines to upgrade the T-72 tanks, enhancing their mobility and offensive capability. The deal includes technology transfer for licensed production at the Heavy Vehicles Factory in Avadi, supporting India's 'Make in India' initiative.

US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging negotiations for a nuclear deal. Trump emphasized that it would benefit Iran and warned of severe consequences if Iran continued its nuclear program. Diplomatic efforts remain tense, especially after the US withdrew from the 2018 nuclear deal and reinstated sanctions.

Comedian Kunal Kamra mocked Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal's new 'Kya Chal Raha Hai?' initiative on social media.

The National Savings Certificate (NSC) and bank tax-saving Fixed Deposits (FDs) are popular investment options offering guaranteed returns and tax benefits under Section 80C. NSC provides an annual interest rate of 7.7% with yearly compounding, while leading banks offer FDs with rates between 6.5% and 8% annually.

Jason Gillespie refuted Sunil Gavaskar's claim that an Indian B team could defeat Pakistan, calling it nonsense. Gillespie emphasised that Pakistan has the talent but needs consistent selection and patience from management. He criticised Pakistan's squad choices and short-term coaching appointments, urging the PCB to implement long-term plans for better results.

A Jaguar fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed in Ambala, Haryana, following a system malfunction after a routine training sortie from Ambala airbase. The pilot safely ejected and maneuvered the aircraft away from populated areas. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the incident. More details are awaited on the matter.

Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal discussed the company's performance in quick commerce and claimed Zepto burns more cash. However, Zepto CEO Aadit Palicha countered, labeling Goyal's statement as inaccurate and assuring transparency through their financial filings, affirming commitment to the Indian startup ecosystem.

The Karnataka High Court cancelled the Enforcement Directorate summons for Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's wife Parvathi and Minister BS Suresh in the Mysore Urban Development Authority land allotment scam. Parvathi allegedly profited from illegal land allotment valued at Rs 56 crore in central Mysuru. She returned the 14 sites she received, denying any admission of guilt.

The Indian ministry of external affairs has expressed deep concern over the security breach involving EAM S Jaishankar's convoy in London, stressing the need for the UK to take action against those responsible. The UK Foreign Office condemned the incident, underscoring a commitment to diplomatic security.