Times of India

A Chinese couple expecting a baby with East Asian features was surprised when their daughter was born with blonde hair and blue eyes. A paternity test confirmed the child was theirs, revealing a hidden Slavic ancestor. This fascinating genetic throwback, known as atavism, highlights the enduring power of recessive genes across generations.

A US-led raid in Syria, intended to capture an ISIS official, tragically killed a man reportedly working undercover for intelligence. Khaled al-Masoud's family claims he was a spy for a Syrian opposition group, not a jihadist. The operation, involving US forces and the Syrian Free Army, has raised questions about faulty intelligence and accountability for his death.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes Virat Kohli is playing with a point to prove after taking whispers about his future to heart. Kohli's animated celebrations and agreement to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy suggest a fierce self-assertion, as he demonstrates renewed technique and ruthless intent, silencing doubts with back-to-back centuries.

Harbhajan Singh expressed disappointment over the way Indian legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been treated amid talk of a forced transition, saying many greats before them were similarly sidelined. He criticised those “who haven’t achieved much” for deciding the duo’s future, while praising Kohli and Rohit for their dominant ODI form and backing them as ideal role models — and contenders for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

IndiGo flights faced massive disruptions across India on Thursday. Bengaluru alone saw 52 arrivals and 50 departures cancelled. Passengers experienced long queues and uncertainty. The airline cited pilot shortages and crew duty limits. IndiGo has requested operational exemptions until February 10, 2026, to stabilize operations. Fares on other airlines increased significantly amid the crisis.

Mars Express has found a unique butterfly-shaped crater on Mars. This formation resulted from a space rock hitting at a low angle. The impact ejected debris in two lobes, creating wing-like structures. Scientists believe subsurface ice or water may have been involved. The area also shows signs of ancient volcanic activity.

The Reserve Bank of India has reduced the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25%, citing benign inflation and a resilient economy. Despite a strong GDP growth forecast of 7.3% for the fiscal year, the central bank sees potential softening ahead. This move aims to support growth momentum while maintaining macroeconomic stability.

The Reserve Bank of India cut its policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25%, while raising the FY26 GDP forecast to 7.3% and lowering inflation to 2%. Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced liquidity measures, citing a "rare Goldilocks period" of benign inflation and strong growth.

Meesho's IPO is nearing its close, attracting significant investor interest with a 7.97 times oversubscription. The Rs 5,421 crore issue, priced between Rs 105-111, shows strong retail and institutional demand. Analysts are cautiously optimistic, citing growth potential despite current losses, with a potential listing gain of around 44.59%.

Virat Kohli's sensational return to form, marked by back-to-back centuries, has ignited a nationwide frenzy, selling out the Visakhapatnam ODI against South Africa. Sluggish ticket sales were reversed overnight, with fans clamoring to witness the phenomenon. Even high prices couldn't dampen the demand, showcasing Kohli's immense impact on Indian cricket.

The Indian Air Force commemorated its pivotal role on December 5, 1971, the third day of the war. IAF operations crippled Pakistan's western defenses and devastated enemy airfields. In the east, air superiority paved the way for India's rapid advance, leading to Bangladesh's birth. The Battle of Longewala also saw IAF Hunters decisively halt a Pakistani armored thrust, securing Jaisalmer.

Vitamin K is crucial for preventing bleeding and ensuring strong bones. Insufficient levels can cause serious health problems, including bleeding disorders and bone weakness. Adults and newborns face risks of deficiency due to diet, medication, or medical conditions. Maintaining adequate vitamin K intake through diet is essential for overall health and well-being.

A Bengaluru software engineer tragically ended his life, citing harassment by a local family and BBMP officials over alleged building plan violations. A 10-page suicide note details accusations of extortion, with the family allegedly demanding Rs 20 lakh to cease the torment. Police have arrested the couple, with their son being sought.

Indian equity benchmarks Nifty50 and BSE Sensex surged today after the RBI, led by Governor Sanjay Malhotra, cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25%. The economy shows resilience, with GDP growth projected at 7.3%. Despite foreign outflows and a weak rupee, markets are watching the RBI's stance on inflation and liquidity.

Dale Steyn lauded KL Rahul's evolution as India's premier ODI finisher, highlighting his ability to accelerate effectively in the death overs. Steyn believes Rahul's adaptability and mastery of his role at No. 5 or 6 are invaluable, suggesting he could be a prolific century-maker if positioned higher in the batting order.

A dispute over parking and drinking escalated violently in Bijnor when two men allegedly rammed their car into a family. The incident, which occurred after the family asked the men to leave, resulted in the death of one woman and serious injuries to two others. The accused have been arrested.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has appointed Major General Roman Gofman, his military secretary, as the new director of the Mossad, succeeding David Barnea in June 2026. Gofman, a decorated officer with extensive military experience but no prior intelligence background, is seen as a close confidant of Netanyahu.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's packed second day in Delhi includes a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and a visit to Rajghat. Prime Minister Modi and Putin will hold crucial bilateral talks at Hyderabad House, focusing on defense deals like S-400s and Su-57s, nuclear energy, and broader cooperation. Several agreements are anticipated.

Joe Root's long-awaited century in Australia, a fluent 135, averted a bizarre promise from Matthew Hayden. Hayden's daughter, Grace, humorously celebrated Root's milestone, saving her father from a public spectacle. Root's historic ton, his first Down Under after a decade, brought calm to England's innings and marked a significant career achievement.

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar refuted BJP's claims of undeclared assets, asserting full transparency in his affidavit, including a Rolex watch. He also highlighted the Congress government's women empowerment initiatives. Meanwhile, Union Minister Prahlad Joshi criticized the state government for internal divisions, corruption, and infrastructure issues, while addressing Rahul Gandhi's claims about foreign dignitaries.