Times of India

The Bombay High Court ruled that religious symbols in a home do not prove conversion to Christianity, emphasizing the need for documentary evidence like baptism certificates. The court set aside a caste scrutiny committee's decision, which had denied a Scheduled Caste certificate based on such inferences, and directed its issuance.

AIIMS graduate Anuj Agnihotri has clinched the top spot in the Civil Services Examination 2025, with 958 candidates recommended for various services. Medical, engineering, law, and commerce graduates once again dominated the prestigious exam. Rajeshwari Suve secured the second rank, followed by Ekansh Dhull at third.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized self-reliance as crucial for navigating global uncertainty, citing supply chain realignments and rising maritime activities. He highlighted India's growing domestic defence production, which surpassed Rs 1.5 lakh crore in FY24-25, with exports reaching Rs 24,000 crore. Singh also stressed the importance of technological dynamism and private sector participation in achieving defence 'atmanirbharta'.

The National Commission for Women is launching nationwide 'Mahila Jan Sunwais' in 500 districts across 25 states until March 14. This initiative aims to resolve approximately 15,000 complaints, with a focus on domestic violence and dowry harassment. NCW chief Vijaya Rahatkar will lead hearings in five states lacking commission chairpersons, bringing support directly to women in distress.

Britain is piloting a scheme offering up to £40,000 per family to failed asylum-seekers to leave voluntarily. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated this aims to save taxpayer money, as hotel accommodation costs are substantial. Families have seven days to decide, or face forced removal. The government is also making refugee status temporary and introducing new legal routes.

The Florida Panthers acquired forward Vinnie Hinostroza from the Minnesota Wild just hours before the NHL Trade Deadline. The Panthers' general manager, Bill Zito, signed Hinostroza in 2020, which makes this trade a reunion for the two players. The experienced forward will help Florida during its important season-ending matches because he provides essential depth to its roster.

Mumbai ACB arrested a private individual and detained two senior Maharashtra GST officials for allegedly demanding Rs 1.25 crore in bribe from a Nashik businessman. The private person was caught accepting Rs 20 lakh, the first installment, on behalf of the officials to expedite a GST investigation.

Nepal's political landscape has been dramatically reshaped as the Rastriya Swatantra Party, spearheaded by Balen Shah, achieved a stunning victory in the parliamentary elections. This generational shift has seen veteran leaders facing significant defeats, with the urban electorate overwhelmingly backing the new force. The results signal a powerful rejection of the old political order.

A Trichy woman, enraged after her neighbor allegedly injured her son, killed two newborn stray puppies she mistakenly believed were being cared for by the neighbor. CCTV footage of the brutal act sparked public outcry. Both women have been arrested, with charges including cruelty to animals and causing injury.

After completing the Career Grand Slam with victory at The Masters, Rory McIlroy turned to tennis great Roger Federer, whose advice about surpassing Pete Sampras’ record helped McIlroy rethink his goals and find renewed motivation. The golfer was impressed with Federer's answer which he thought was great as he’s lived it and he’s been through it.

The US has granted India a temporary waiver to buy Russian oil, aiming to stabilize global prices amid Middle East supply disruptions. This short-term measure allows India to access millions of barrels of Russian crude currently at sea, easing immediate pressure on refineries worldwide.

A neighbourhood spat over Holi colours turned deadly in Delhi, resulting in the alleged beating death of 26-year-old Tarun Butolia. Tarun was reportedly lured back home by a call claiming his parents were under attack, only to be ambushed by a mob. The violence has a communal undertone, with neighbours from different communities involved.

Olympic champion Alysa Liu asked fans to respect her privacy after a frightening airport incident following her Milan Winter Olympics victory. The 20-year-old figure skater said people crowded her and chased her to her car. Liu, who recently ended a four-year retirement to win gold, says she hopes to keep her life calm despite sudden fame.

Former England pacer Steve Harmison has cast doubt on Jos Buttler's continued motivation for international cricket following a disappointing T20 World Cup 2026 campaign. Buttler struggled significantly, scoring only 87 runs and failing to register a half-century. Harmison urged Buttler to self-reflect on his desire to continue, suggesting it might be time for a new generation if his passion wanes.

The White House posted a 42-second, trailer-style montage celebrating US–Israeli strikes on Iran, blending real drone footage with Hollywood, anime, and video-game clips. Phrases like “Justice the American Way” frame war as spectacle, drawing viral attention and criticism. Observers condemned the surreal, propagandistic tone, noting copyright concerns, ironic film choices, and the ethical risk of trivializing deadly military operations.