Times of India

Israel faces renewed challenges following the reappearance of senior Hamas commander Hussein Fayyad, previously reported killed. Fayyad's return highlights Hamas's resilience and continued influence in Gaza, despite heavy casualties and a fragile ceasefire. The development raises questions about the effectiveness of Israel's military operations. While Hamas may have suffered thousands of casualties, the IDF estimates some 20,000 were eliminated; the group continues to hold on to Gaza.

Aryna Sabalenka has reached her third consecutive Australian Open final by defeating Paula Badosa in straight sets. Sabalenka, aiming for a third consecutive title, maintained her world number one ranking with the victory. Badosa, despite the loss, will re-enter the top 10 rankings after recovering from a severe back injury.

In Anantapur, a 16-year-old intermediate student named Charan jumped from the third floor of his college building, resulting in his death. He had just returned after the Sankranti holidays. Despite immediate medical attention, he was declared dead on arrival. Police are investigating the reasons behind his drastic action. His family and relatives are devastated.

The Kremlin dismisses US President Donald Trump's remarks on the Ukraine conflict, expressing openness to constructive dialogue despite proposed sanctions. Trump threatens increased economic pressure on Russia, urging a peace deal to end the war. Meanwhile, Russian attacks continue, causing casualties in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine.

Tensions between Hindu and Islamic outfits over animal sacrifices on Thiruparankundram Hill in Madurai have risen. Police stopped animal sacrifices at Sikandar Badushah Dargah, citing that only prayers are allowed. Ramanathapuram MP K. Navas Kani attempted to address the issue while BJP state president K. Annamalai criticized the MP for provoking Hindus and disrupting religious harmony.

A bomb threat email initiated a security response at a Mumbai school. Authorities and explosive detection units examined the site. Similarly, two Tamil Nadu schools in Erode were evacuated after receiving email threats, which later proved to be hoaxes. Police and bomb squads conducted thorough searches at both locations.

Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued notices to Ola and Uber following complaints about price differences for identical rides on Android and iOS devices. Investigations found higher fares on iOS. Experts suggest these disparities might be due to how ride-hailing apps access hardware data with user consent during app installation.

Human skulls have been stolen from a graveyard in Bhagalpur district, Bihar. The latest theft involved a woman's skull, buried about five and a half months ago. Similar incidents have occurred over the past five years. The police are investigating but have found no clues yet. Locals suspect black magic and are frightened.

Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan boasts an impressive real estate portfolio in Mumbai, highlighted by the recent sale of a luxurious duplex for Rs.83 crore. His iconic Juhu residences include Jalsa, Janak, Prateeksha, and Vatsa. The star's investments also span multiple apartments across the city, reflecting his keen acumen in property ventures.

The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the National Investigation Agency regarding the bail plea of Jammu and Kashmir MP Rashid Engineer in a 2017 terror funding case. Rashid, arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, seeks a swift decision on his pending bail application.

A tea seller shouting about a fire in the Pushpak Express led to panic, causing passengers to jump off the moving train in North Maharashtra, resulting in 13 deaths and 10 injuries. The rumor was spread by passengers Udal Kumar and Vijay Kumar, who are now receiving treatment. The government will cover the medical expenses for the injured.

For the first time, gold prices have surpassed Rs 80,000/10 gm due to increased demand from investors seeking a safe haven amidst potential market volatility caused by an anticipated disruptive Donald Trump presidency and the global weakening of the dollar.

In Pune, veteran leader Sharad Pawar and Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar appeared together at the Vasantdada Sugar Institute meeting, marking their second joint appearance in a week. Previously seen at the '2025 Agriculture Festival', their public presence hints at reconciliation despite past political rifts. Ajit visited Sharad's Delhi residence recently to celebrate his birthday.

Budget 2025 income tax expectations: The Union Budget 2025 is expected to simplify existing tax provisions and introduce reforms to boost consumption amidst rising living costs and inflation. Key expectations include increasing the income tax rebate, revisiting limits of deduction under Sections 80C and 80D, enhancing housing tax breaks.

India international stars Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill made their return to domestic cricket with disappointing performances. Rohit Sharma was dismissed for 3 runs, Jaiswal fell for 4, and Shubman Gill managed only 4 runs, all struggling to regain form ahead of upcoming international series against England and the Champions Trophy.

Swami Vishnudevananda Giriji Maharaj from Ukraine and Ananda Lila Mata from Russia are delivering sermons on love, peace, and compassion at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. They emphasize the importance of universal good and enlightenment, conducting special prayers for world peace amidst ongoing conflicts between their countries, demonstrating spirituality's power to transcend national identities.

Saif Ali Khan was stabbed six times during a burglary at his home and underwent surgery. He is recovering, with heightened security measures now in place. Ronit Roy's company is handling the security while police provide temporary protection. The accused, a Bangladeshi named Shariful Islam, has been arrested, and police are closely monitoring the Bandra locality.

Khushi Kapoor reflects on her journey in Bollywood, discussing her experiences with her debut film 'The Archies' and her upcoming movie 'Loveyapa.' She emphasizes gaining confidence, carving her own path despite her family's legacy, and seeking advice from her father and sister. She remains optimistic about future projects.

At the Tata Steel Chess Tournament 2025, India's D Gukesh has excelled, remaining unbeaten and overtaking Arjun Erigaisi to become the new India No. 1. Gukesh's strong performances contrast with Erigaisi's struggles, who has yet to secure a win and has dropped to the bottom of the leaderboard, impacting his rating.

Rohit Sharma's return to the Ranji Trophy after nearly a decade was short-lived as he was dismissed early by Jammu and Kashmir's Umar Nazir. Despite his comeback to maintain match fitness following a tough international series, Rohit managed only a brief appearance, further compounded by Yashasvi Jaiswal's quick departure. The last time Rohit played a Ranji game for Mumbai, he scored a brilliant 113 while batting at No 4 in a drawn match against Uttar Pradesh.