Times of India

Airlines are cautiously resuming limited flights to the Middle East to evacuate thousands stranded by escalating Gulf conflict. Following US-Iran strikes and retaliatory attacks, widespread airspace closures caused major disruptions. Indian carriers are stepping in to repatriate citizens, though some flight cancellations persist amid ongoing tensions.

The geopolitical strain has pushed up global oil and gas prices. For India, which relies heavily on imports, this surge translates into a higher import bill and adds to inflationary pressures. India depends on overseas purchases for almost 90 per cent of its crude oil needs.

Tragedy struck Perumpathu village as a brutal attack left two dead, including a guest worker, and five injured. A gang reportedly hacked seven individuals outside a tea shop late Monday night. The victims, identified as Trinath Kata and John Mark, died instantly. Villagers protested, demanding swift arrests. Police have secured six individuals as investigations continue amidst a tense atmosphere.

OpenAI has amended its Pentagon deal following public backlash over AI surveillance concerns. CEO Sam Altman stated he would refuse unconstitutional orders, and the updated contract now explicitly prohibits intentional domestic surveillance of US persons. The Pentagon also confirmed OpenAI services won't be used by intelligence agencies like the NSA without further contract changes.

Netflix's Ted Sarandos revealed the company bowed out of the Warner Bros. Discovery bidding war, deeming Paramount's debt-laden offer too risky. He warned of significant layoffs and reduced production at the rival studio. Despite the loss, Netflix will invest its saved funds into its core business and expand its theatrical presence.

Sanju Samson's match-winning 97 against the West Indies fulfilled a promise made by captain Rohit Sharma, who encouraged him not to be disheartened when initially left out of the T20 World Cup playing XI. Samson's resilient knock, his highest in T20 World Cups, secured India's highest successful chase and propelled them to the semifinals.

India and England renew their T20 World Cup semi-final rivalry at Wankhede, marking their third consecutive clash in the last four. Both previous encounters saw the winner go on to lift the trophy, adding significant intrigue to this high-stakes encounter. The teams hold a balanced record in World Cup semi-finals, with one win each.

Bizarre polling station names like 'Singapore', 'For Pakistan', and 'Slingshot' are causing confusion in Telangana's 2002 electoral rolls. Residents struggle to locate their names on the list, which is being used for mapping, due to these nonsensical entries. Officials admit the errors and promise to investigate, while the Election Commission states data was hosted as received.

A 48-year-old Delhi businessman, Anroop Gupta, missing since February 18, was found murdered and his body dismembered in a Mathura canal. Police arrested four individuals, including a woman, who allegedly abducted and killed Gupta for money after he refused to pay them and threatened to report them.

Sanju Samson's spectacular 97 not out powered India into the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals. He credits time away from social media and self-reflection for his return to form. Samson's innings secured a five-wicket victory against West Indies. This performance marks a significant comeback for the batsman after a challenging period.

The Los Angeles Clippers face the Golden State Warriors on March 2nd, with both teams vying for a play-in spot. Injuries heavily impact this matchup; the Warriors are without Stephen Curry, while the Clippers have questionable players. Availability will be crucial as the Clippers aim to improve their standing against a Warriors team struggling offensively.

Saudi Arabia significantly boosted crude oil supplies to India in February, nearly matching Russia's top position. This surge, the highest in six years, reflects a shift by refiners away from some Russian volumes. However, ongoing Gulf disruptions may force India to seek alternative import routes, potentially altering the supply landscape.

House Republicans have released deposition videos of Bill and Hillary Clinton regarding Jeffrey Epstein. Both former leaders denied knowledge of his crimes, with Bill Clinton recalling a property dispute conversation with Donald Trump. Hillary Clinton suggested questioning Trump directly. Epstein died in jail in 2019 awaiting trial.