Times of India

Saudi Arabia and the UAE, once close allies, are now locked in open rivalry, impacting the Yemen war, cross-border trade, and regional flashpoints. This strategic split challenges core assumptions about Gulf stability and investor confidence. The dispute, fueled by economic competition and differing regional visions, is escalating with potential for proxy conflicts and business friction.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the global community at the AI Impact Summit to leverage technological disruption as humanity's greatest opportunity, emphasizing "right action" guided by "right understanding." The summit also saw the country's nameplate displayed as "Bharat," a recurring practice at official global events, sparking renewed discussion.

Grammy-winning artist SZA recently embarked on a personal spiritual journey in India, seeking stillness and balance beyond her demanding global career. Her visit included a silent retreat and participation in Mahashivratri at the Isha Yoga Center, showcasing a deep dive into mindfulness and cultural immersion.

South Africa's specialist consultant Albie Morkel lightened the mood ahead of their UAE clash, joking about his brother Morne's role with India. Albie's focus on yorkers and building confidence has bolstered the Proteas' formidable pace attack, with bowlers like Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen excelling. He credits Stephen Fleming for shaping his player-centric coaching approach.

Tata Consultancy Services has partnered with OpenAI to build AI infrastructure in India, aiming to enhance productivity and innovation. The collaboration will leverage OpenAI's enterprise ChatGPT and Codex tools, with TCS developing AI-ready, green energy-powered data centers. This strategic alliance seeks to position India as a global AI hub and empower its youth for the AI era.

The Kerala High Court has quashed a GST notice demanding Honey Rose's tax records for multiple years in one go, stating separate requests are necessary. Meanwhile, her upcoming film 'Rachel', where she plays a butcher, has been postponed again, with makers citing release landscape concerns for a better audience experience.

The Supreme Court has criticized the Tamil Nadu electricity board's promise of free electricity to all consumers. The apex court expressed concern that such freebies, regardless of financial need, hinder national economic development. It noted that states often offer these schemes, funded by taxpayer money, without proper budgetary justification.

Mohammad Amir said Pakistan no longer commands the fear it did in the 1990s, especially against India. Shahid Afridi called for dropping senior players, which angered Shadab Khan, who reminded critics they also never beat India in World Cups. Basit Ali criticised Shadab’s comments and questioned his performances, sharing an anecdote about taking away his phones on a past tour.

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol received a life sentence for insurrection after declaring martial law in December 2024, a move the court deemed a plot to paralyze the National Assembly. The declaration, though brief and without casualties, led to his impeachment and subsequent trials. Two cabinet members also faced convictions in related cases.

Speaking to attendees, Mukesh Ambani conveyed optimism that AI would broaden economic prospects instead of diminishing them. He maintained that fears surrounding large-scale job losses are misplaced

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for using the prefix 'Swami' for Sri Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsadeva on his birth anniversary. Banerjee stated this displayed cultural insensitivity, as the saint was revered as 'Thakur,' with 'Swami' being a title for his disciples. Modi had earlier paid tributes to Swami Ramakrishna Paramahansa.

A 70-year-old woman was brutally murdered in her Bengaluru home while her mentally challenged husband lay beside her. Police arrested a wholesale shop owner, Shivakumar, alleging financial distress as the motive for the attack. Investigators believe the suspect sought gold ornaments and cash. CCTV footage and vehicle tracing led to the arrest.

In many instances, the taxpayers are alleged to have sought tax relief by reporting bogus donations to religious bodies, charitable organisations, or educational institutions.

Afghanistan's new penal code, signed by the Taliban's supreme leader, permits husbands to physically abuse wives and children without causing severe injury. It formalizes inequality, with different penalties for 'free' individuals and 'slaves.' Psychological and sexual violence against women are not explicitly prohibited, leaving them vulnerable and without adequate legal recourse.

Jammu and Kashmir's remarkable journey to the Ranji Trophy final, marked by self-belief and meticulous planning, has transformed them into title contenders. Coach Ajay Sharma's patient approach and the development of a core group of talented young players, supported by improved infrastructure and pre-season exposure, have been pivotal to this success.

A woman allegedly stormed a Lucknow power substation, assaulting staff and tearing documents after her home's electricity was disconnected. Nidhi Sharma reportedly became agitated when asked for account details, leading to a physical altercation where employees were injured. Police have registered an FIR and are investigating.

DMDK has officially joined the DMK alliance, marking its first partnership with the party since its inception in 2005. General secretary Premallatha Vijayakant confirmed the decision after meeting with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Seat-sharing discussions are ongoing, with a Rajya Sabha seat anticipated for DMDK.

India is hosting the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, bringing together global leaders to discuss artificial intelligence. Discussions focused on democratizing AI, building sovereign capabilities, and ensuring inclusive growth. Leaders emphasized AI's transformative potential across sectors like healthcare and education. The summit highlighted India's growing role as a trusted AI hub in the Global South.