Times of India

Despite India's rich intellectual tradition and early Nobel laureates like Tagore and Raman, the country has experienced long gaps in recognition. Factors like brain drain, limited funding, and an emphasis on publications over long-term innovation hinder the journey from research to global acclaim. The case of Mahatma Gandhi's missed Peace Prize also highlights complexities beyond merit.

Indian airlines are increasing ticket prices due to soaring aviation fuel costs, driven by Middle East geopolitical tensions. Akasa Air, following Air India and IndiGo, will implement fuel surcharges from March 15th, ranging from Rs 199 to Rs 1,300.

Tensions flared near Girish Park in Kolkata as TMC and BJP supporters clashed, pelting stones and raising slogans just before Prime Minister Modi's rally. Both parties accused each other of initiating the violence, with claims of damaged vehicles and hurled abuses. Police intervened to restore order in the area.

Abrar Ahmed, the Pakistan spinner, was bought by Sunrisers Leeds, a franchise controlled by the owners of IPL's Sunrisers Hyderabad, for £190,000 (around PKR 7 crore) on Thursday during The Hundred. However, the mystery spinner may not receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC), as the Pakistan national cricket team is scheduled to tour West Indies for a two-match Test series during that period.

Pakistan grapples with an escalating economic crisis as Middle East conflict disrupts vital oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Soaring fuel prices are impacting farmers, urban commuters, and households, forcing difficult choices. With the nation already financially strained, prolonged energy shortages threaten to destabilize its economy further, affecting daily life and traditional celebrations.

Farah Khan revealed on Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast that working with Akshaye Khanna in the ’90s left her traumatised due to his irritability over hair loss. She said he changed after Dil Chahta Hai. Farah recently praised him for Dhurandhar and recalled how others rejected his Tees Maar Khan role before he took it.

Iran has strategically prepared to leverage the Strait of Hormuz, employing asymmetric warfare with drones and missiles to disrupt global oil flows. This approach, learned from past conflicts, aims to inflict economic pain and pressure the US, rather than engage in direct confrontation. The strategy focuses on survival and demonstrating that coercion cannot force compliance.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan suggests the upcoming IPL season might be MS Dhoni's final appearance for Chennai Super Kings. While Dhoni's fitness is praised, his role is expected to shift towards mentoring, with Sanju Samson potentially benefiting from his guidance. The team aims for a sixth IPL trophy as a fitting farewell.

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Suryakumar Yadav celebrates five years in international cricket, a journey marked by a remarkable T20 World Cup triumph. His impactful debut in 2022 paved the way for a career defined by explosive batting and astute leadership. Yadav's impressive stats and captaincy record highlight his significant contributions to Team India's success.

Pakistan Cricket Board is reportedly considering legal action against Zimbabwe's Blessing Muzarabani. He opted to play for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL instead of fulfilling his contract with Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League. This move, driven by IPL's lucrative opportunities, has angered the PCB, who aim to protect the integrity of their league contracts.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's detention under the National Security Act has been revoked by the Centre with immediate effect. Wangchuk was detained over allegations of inciting unrest in Ladakh, with the government citing his remarks as potentially destabilizing. His wife had challenged the detention in the Supreme Court.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard launched its 48th wave of retaliatory strikes, "Operation True Promise 4," targeting Israeli and US interests. State media showcased drone launches and an underground arsenal, reporting attacks on northern Israel, including Haifa, and American bases. The IRGC claimed to have hit Qatar's al-Udaid airbase, asserting it caused panic in Israel.

Fortnite's "Story Moment Power Hour" is scheduled for March 14, 2026, bridging the gap between Chapter 7 Season 1 and Season 2. This unrepeatable, live event will feature The Dark Voyager and provide crucial narrative context for the "Showdown." Players must log in precisely at their region's start time to participate.

A TikTok US joint venture deal is expected to generate nearly $10 billion in payments for the Trump administration, according to The Wall Street Journal. This fee, paid by investors friendly to the administration, is part of an arrangement for them to control TikTok's US operations.

Former India batter Subramaniam Badrinath believes Chennai Super Kings management faces an immense challenge in dropping MS Dhoni from the playing XI. Despite Dhoni's role yet to be finalized for IPL 2026, Badrinath asserts that even coach Stephen Fleming would find it impossible to tell the legendary captain he's not playing or is just an impact player, given his stature.

Palantir CEO Alex Karp acquired a Miami mansion months before his company's headquarters relocation. This move predates similar property purchases by tech titans like Mark Zuckerberg and Google founders. The trend is fueled by tax proposals in states like California, prompting wealthy executives to seek more favorable financial environments. Miami's appeal as a haven for the ultra-rich is growing.

Pawan Kalyan's 'Ustaad Bhagat Singh' is creating massive buzz ahead of its March 19th release. Early reviews hail it as 'Paisa Vasool,' with advance bookings already crossing Rs 120 crore. Andhra Pradesh has approved a temporary ticket price hike, and special early morning benefit shows are planned, promising a grand opening for the action entertainer.