Times of India

Oxford University Press has declared 'rage bait' the Word of the Year 2025, citing a threefold surge in online usage. This term describes content intentionally crafted to provoke anger and boost engagement. Its selection highlights a significant shift in how online attention, interaction, and ethics are perceived and manipulated in the digital sphere.

Parliament's Winter Session sees the government proposing new excise duty on tobacco and a 'Health Security–National Security Cess' for pan masala. These measures aim to maintain tax revenue post-GST compensation cess expiry, ensuring continued fiscal space for public health and national security initiatives. The shift aligns with a new 40% GST slab for demerit goods.

Nepal's central bank has awarded a contract to a Chinese firm for printing new banknotes. The company will design and supply notes of NRs 50, NRs 500, and NRs 1,000. This comes as Nepal also issued new Rs 100 notes featuring a revised map including disputed territories. The Chinese firm has prior experience printing Nepalese currency.

Ludwig Minelli, the founder of Swiss right-to-die group Dignitas, has died through an assisted death at the age of 92. Minelli, who established Dignitas in 1998, dedicated his final years to exploring new avenues for end-of-life choices. The organization will continue his legacy, upholding principles of self-determination and freedom of choice.

Stock market today: Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, the Indian equity benchmark indices, opened in green on Monday on the back of strong domestic fundamentals and better-than-expected GDP growth numbers.

Maharashtra minister Jaykumar Gore urged women beneficiaries of the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme to vote for Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Addressing a rally, Gore advised women to accept money from any source but to remember the Rs 1,500 monthly stipend, warning it would stop if Fadnavis wasn't in power. He emphasized loyalty to the CM during upcoming civic polls.

Many fear investing due to market volatility and potential losses. However, data shows long-term equity investments typically reward patience, while inaction risks losing purchasing power to inflation. Protecting yourself with an emergency fund and insurance, then starting small with a diversified fund, helps manage fear and build wealth over time through consistent, disciplined behaviour.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and local police conducted coordinated raids at eight locations across Delhi on Monday, including the residence of key suspect Jasir Bilal Wani. The operation is reportedly connected to a "white collar terror" network, with multiple teams conducting simultaneous searches. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.

KL Rahul expressed admiration and nerves after Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's stellar performances secured India's 17-run victory over South Africa in the opening ODI. Kohli's 135 and Rohit's 57 anchored India's 349/8, with bowlers Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav also playing crucial roles in the tense win.

Stock market recommendations: Motilal Oswal Financial Services has identified Reliance Industries and HCL Tech as top stock picks for the week of December 1, 2025. RIL's strong performance in Retail and RJio, coupled with O2C earnings improvement, drives growth expectations. HCL Tech's robust deal wins and early traction in AI solutions support its upgraded services growth guidance.

Delhi-NCR breathes easier this year, achieving its best air quality in eight years, excluding 2020. Average AQI and severe pollution days have significantly dropped. PM2.5 and PM10 levels are also at their lowest since 2018. Revised GRAP guidelines now place stricter measures under Stage III, impacting office operations. However, allegations of data manipulation and lax enforcement have surfaced.

Virat Kohli's match-winning century in the first ODI against South Africa sparked speculation about a potential Test comeback. However, the star batter firmly stated his commitment to playing only one format of the game. Kohli emphasised his mental approach to cricket and the importance of enjoyment in his continued success.

Shubman Gill is set to begin his rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru from December 1. The 26-year-old, who missed the Test and ODI series against South Africa due to a neck injury, is recovering well and will start training soon. His participation in the upcoming T20I series depends on his full recovery and readiness.

A Mumbai businesswoman has accused senior pharmaceutical officials of holding her at gunpoint, stripping her, and taking compromising photos and videos at their Mahalaxmi office. The FIR details threats of viral dissemination and fabricated legal cases. Police have registered a case under various sections of sexual violence and criminal intimidation, initiating an investigation.

A Deputy SP in Kerala, A. Umesh, has been suspended. Allegations of sexual assault and bribery against him emerged after a police officer's suicide. An internal inquiry found Umesh misused his position. The Home Department suspended him based on the state police chief's recommendation. This action follows a review of a special report detailing grave misconduct. Disciplinary action is pending.

A 30-year-old Indian student from Haryana, Vijay Kumar Sheoran, was fatally stabbed in Worcester, UK. He had moved to the UK for higher studies earlier this year. His family has appealed to the Ministry of External Affairs for assistance in repatriating his body for final rites.

Shedeur Sanders made his professional home debut for the Cleveland Browns, showcasing his potential despite a loss to the 49ers. Supported by his stylish mother, Pilar, who also garnered attention, Shedeur aims to solidify his starting quarterback role. Coach Stefanski praised his commitment, highlighting his growth after his first start.

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is electrifying fans with his stellar performance, leading the team to a dominant 10-2 record. Off the field, his wife, Ann Michael Maye, is gaining a significant following on TikTok for her fitness and lifestyle content. Their combined popularity makes them a notable NFL power couple.

Panic erupted in Ahmedabad's Subhash Society after Rahul Soni fired six rounds following a domestic dispute with his wife. Soni arrived at his in-laws' residence, argued with his wife, and then discharged firearms outside the bungalow. Police detained Soni and seized the weapons, with no injuries reported.

A 1972 rape survivor, whose case led to landmark legal reforms, was found living in dire conditions. A TOI report sparked immediate action from Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis and widespread support from across India and abroad. Authorities have pledged financial aid, housing, and rations, offering a lifeline to the woman known as 'Mathura'.