Times of India

Dallas Cowboys' star CeeDee Lamb is showing positive signs of recovery from a concussion sustained against the Detroit Lions. Executive VP Stephen Jones indicated Lamb is meeting necessary thresholds for play, with head coach Brian Schottenheimer also expressing optimism. While Lamb was a limited participant in practice, his return on Sunday remains unconfirmed.

Construction at the 850-MW Ratle Hydroelectric Project in Kishtwar faces a shutdown threat due to alleged political interference and demands for local hiring. Management warns of halting work amidst union disputes and pressure to employ inexperienced individuals, echoing past disruptions that caused significant delays and losses.

Kashmir's apple farmers face a grave health crisis as studies reveal a strong link between pesticide exposure and malignant brain tumors. Decades of unchecked spraying, often exceeding recommended limits, have led to alarming incidences of cancer in fruit-growing districts. Lawmakers are now demanding urgent action to protect these vital workers.

Ladakh's campaign for statehood and Sixth Schedule status intensified as the Leh Apex Body presented its draft proposal. While proponents advocate for greater autonomy, concerns were raised about the region's financial viability as a state. The draft also seeks amnesty for protesters and constitutional safeguards.

The Election Commission has revised the schedule for the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in five states and a Union Territory following requests from chief electoral officers. New deadlines for submitting enumeration forms and publishing draft electoral rolls have been set, with the final rolls to be published in February 2026.

India's clean energy journey received a significant boost as Union minister Pralhad Joshi launched a pilot project for hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in the mobility sector. An MoU between NISE and Toyota Kirloskar Motor will facilitate field trials of the Toyota Mirai, aiming to assess its performance across diverse Indian conditions and pave the way for wider adoption.

NHPC is seeking an NOC from the environment ministry to use Subansiri Lower project assets for future debt financing without offering forest land as collateral. This clarification follows reports of the ministry rejecting a proposal, stating it was not tenable under the Forest Conservation Act.

Google Cloud's CEO revealed the company foresaw AI's massive energy needs as a critical bottleneck years ago. They are now implementing a three-pronged strategy: diversifying energy sources, maximizing efficiency through AI-driven systems, and developing novel energy generation technologies. This proactive approach aims to power the future of AI infrastructure.

South Africa leveled the T20I series 1-1 after defeating India by 51 runs in the second match. Quinton de Kock's explosive 90 powered South Africa to 213, a target India couldn't chase, faltering at 162 despite Tilak Varma's valiant 62. South Africa's bowlers consistently took wickets, stifling India's momentum. Baartman took four wickets for South Africa.

Whispers of Sherrone Moore's potential firing from Michigan have intensified, fueled by rumors of an alleged relationship with executive assistant Paige Shiver. The situation escalated with claims of Shiver's pregnancy and Moore being the father. Paige Shiver's father, Jeff Shiver, is a highly respected NFL scout with a storied career, as detailed in a 2019 profile.

Shubman Gill's T20I struggles persisted with a golden duck against South Africa, drawing criticism. Meanwhile, Quinton de Kock's explosive 90 powered the visitors to a formidable 213/4. India's bowlers, including Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah, faced a tough outing, conceding heavily in the death overs, leaving the hosts with a challenging chase.

Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Moscow's commitment to joint economic and energy projects with Venezuela during a call with President Nicolás Maduro. Putin also conveyed solidarity with Venezuela amidst US pressure, which Caracas denies is linked to drug cartels. The leaders emphasized deepening strategic cooperation, building on existing strong ties between the two nations.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed US praise for trade deal offers, urging the US to finalize the agreement if satisfied. Despite no timeline, Goyal highlighted ongoing discussions and the mutual benefit required for any deal.

Goa nightclub co-owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra have been detained in Phuket, Thailand, and are being deported to India for investigation into a deadly fire that killed 25 people. Indian authorities coordinated the operation after the brothers fled the country shortly after the blaze, with a police team now in Thailand to take them into custody upon their return.

Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh struggled with his line and length during the second T20I against South Africa, bowling seven wides in a single over. This costly over, which included 13 deliveries and 13 runs, drew the ire of head coach Gautam Gambhir. India, leading the series 1-0, opted to bowl first after winning the toss.

New labour codes are set to redefine wage calculations, impacting salary structures, PF contributions, and gratuity payouts. The broader definition of 'wages' means more components will be included, potentially increasing employee benefits and employer liabilities. Fixed-term employees now qualify for gratuity after one year of service.

Oracle's stock experienced a significant drop after reporting quarterly results that missed revenue expectations, largely due to substantial spending on data centers for AI customers like OpenAI. The company's heavy reliance on a massive OpenAI deal and its debt-fueled expansion have raised investor concerns about its financial stability and future growth prospects.

Prime Minister Modi and President Trump held a productive call, reviewing the robust India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with growing bilateral cooperation and discussed enhancing trade, critical technologies, energy, and defense. They also committed to collaborating on regional and global issues, reinforcing their commitment to a deepening strategic alliance.