Times of India

Air India successfully repatriated 149 passengers and 8 crew members from Dubai to Delhi, marking the first international arrival by an Indian carrier. This operation comes as Dubai's airports begin partial resumption of limited flight operations after days of disruption due to escalating regional tensions and airspace restrictions.

Sixteen-year-old Aarav Dengla has become India’s 93rd Grandmaster (GM). Guided by his mother Shipra, who quit her job to support his career, Aarav rose rapidly from prodigy to champion. Initially trained by GM Pravin Thipsay and then under Vishnu Prasanna, and balancing rigorous academics, he sealed his final GM norm in 2026, emerging as Mumbai’s third Grandmaster.

Iran is shifting its retaliation strategy from dramatic displays to sustained pressure, utilizing cheap drones to exhaust air defenses and rattle populations across Israel and Gulf states. This approach aims to drain expensive interceptor inventories and destabilize the region, making the conflict a drawn-out endurance test rather than a single event.

Dubai, once a symbol of Middle Eastern stability, now faces unprecedented threats after Iranian missile and drone strikes targeted its airport and iconic landmarks. The attacks shattered the city's aura of invincibility, raising serious concerns for its economic model and the safety of millions of residents, particularly the large Indian diaspora.

Mithun Manhas reflects on his emotions when Paras Dogra-led Jammu and Kashmir won the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy title. He traces J&K’s revival to the 2021 BCCI-appointed sub-committee, credits stability and discipline for the turnaround, backs Auqib Nabi as a product of domestic grind, and expresses full faith in Suryakumar Yadav-led India to deliver in front of home crowd in the T20 World Cup.

Pakistan conducted airstrikes on Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, a significant escalation in tensions. The Pakistani military confirmed strikes aimed at destroying equipment and supplies, citing the Taliban government's alleged support for the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Satellite images indicate damage to aircraft hangars and warehouses at the key military site..

India is the world’s fastest growing major economy and a fast-growing consumer of oil. Its vulnerability to supply shocks stems from the relatively small reserves and strategic oil reserves.

Amidst rising geopolitical tensions, investors are flocking to safe-haven assets like gold and silver ETFs. Experts suggest a higher allocation to gold for stability, with silver playing a complementary role. While gold ETFs offer primary protection, silver's industrial demand makes it more volatile. A 10-15% portfolio allocation to precious metals is advised.

After a COVID-induced withdrawal in 2022, India's women's football team has qualified for the AFC Women's Asian Cup on merit for the first time since 2003. Under new coach Amelia Valverde, the team faces a tough challenge in Australia against Japan, Vietnam, and Chinese Taipei, aiming to compete and showcase their capabilities on the international stage. The dream is clear: qualify for the FIFA Women's World Cup.

Qatar remains India’s largest LNG supplier - it accounts for nearly half of the country’s imports last year, based on vessel-tracking information. Qatar remains India’s largest LNG supplier - it accounts for nearly half of the country’s imports last year.

Indian cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and VVS Laxman extended warm Holi wishes, emphasising joy, positivity, and togetherness. Other stars, including Yuzvendra Chahal, Rishabh Pant, Anil Kumble, and Jhulan Goswami, also shared festive greetings, with some reminding fans to celebrate safely and reflect on the festival's deeper meanings.

South Africa, unbeaten in the T20 World Cup, faces New Zealand in the first semi-final at Eden Gardens. With a reserve day in place, a washout would see South Africa advance due to their superior Super Eight performance. Sunny conditions are forecast, making a full game likely.

Holi 2026 is approaching. Avoid generic messages this year. The article provides over 75 unique Holi wishes for family, friends, and colleagues.

President Donald Trump's recent neck rash has reignited health concerns. His doctor stated it is from a common skin treatment. Previously, Trump was seen with makeup and bruises on his hands. He also experienced leg swelling diagnosed as chronic venous insufficiency. Trump himself claimed his health is perfect despite taking more aspirin than advised.

The Sensex plunged by more than 1,000 points, slipping below the 81,000 mark for the first time in over a month. The Nifty 50 also dropped sharply, losing upwards of 300 points and falling beneath the crucial 25,000 support level.

The Bombay High Court ruled that the right to dignity under Article 21 extends beyond death, allowing exhumation for religious rites. The court quashed administrative refusals, emphasizing that denying custody of mortal remains infringes upon constitutional rights, including freedom of religion. This decision reinforces dignified treatment of the deceased and mandates reasoned decisions from authorities.

Poonch observed a complete shutdown as the Shia Muslim community mourned Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and protested against the US and Israel. Security forces were on high alert across the district. Similar demonstrations occurred in Srinagar, with protesters condemning alleged US and Israel-led strikes. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation.