Times of India

Pakistan's Prime Minister has approved significant salary cuts for state-owned enterprise employees, ranging from 5 to 30 percent, as part of a broad austerity drive. This move follows a sharp fuel price hike linked to the Middle East conflict. The government is also reducing fuel allocations for official vehicles and banning new purchases to fund public relief efforts.

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has stepped down as mentor of Delhi Capitals ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League, citing lack of time for the role. He will still appear as a commentator during the tournament. Pietersen joined the franchise in 2025 and previously played for several IPL teams during his career. The season begins March 28 in Bengaluru.

Pakistan's selectors are demanding an inquiry into how star players Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman sustained injuries, with concerns raised that fitness issues were not disclosed during the T20 World Cup. Aaqib Javed questioned if players would have been declared fit had Pakistan advanced, highlighting a lack of transparency. Younger players are now being given opportunities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a strong attack on the TMC in Kolkata, accusing the party of protecting rapists and insulting President Droupadi Murmu. He also alleged that the TMC opposes electoral roll revisions to shield infiltrators and deliberately alters demographics, making Hindus a minority in several areas.

United States President Donald Trump said American forces carried out “the most powerful bombing raid” on Iran’s Kharg Island, claiming that American forces “totally obliterated” military targets there while choosing not to destroy the island’s oil infrastructure. ​​Any disruption at Kharg Island can significantly affect global oil supply routes, making it a critical node for global energy security and oil market stability.

Pakistan selector Aaqib Javed sparked debate after comparing Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah to Usman Tariq, citing his unusual bowling action. Bumrah starred in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, finishing joint-highest wicket-taker with 14 wickets alongside Varun Chakravarthy. His 4/15 in the final against New Zealand national cricket team helped India secure a dominant 96-run victory.

Indian long jumper Lokesh Sathyanathan won gold at the NCAA Division I Indoor Track and Field Championships in Fayetteville, Arkansas with an 8.21m leap, setting a new Indian indoor record. The Tarleton State University athlete finished ahead of De'Aundre Ward and Tafadzwa Chikomba. Lokesh dedicated the milestone to his late mother, who died from COVID-19 in 2021.

A traveler, stranded in Dubai due to Gulf Air flight cancellations linked to Bahrain airspace issues, shared her ordeal. After a week of disruptions, she finally departed on an Emirates flight. She advises monitoring flight patterns, visiting airline offices in person for better options, and remaining adaptable amidst ongoing travel challenges in the region.

Former India captain Anil Kumble criticizes Kolkata Knight Riders for releasing Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt after their 2024 IPL triumph. Kumble argues this decision, leading to Iyer guiding Punjab Kings to the final and Salt contributing to RCB's maiden title, jeopardizes KKR's future title aspirations. He highlights the advantage of retaining proven winning captains and praises Iyer's underrated leadership.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has refuted claims of fining players for not reaching the T20 World Cup semifinals. A spokesperson clarified that while no fines have been imposed, the board is considering performance-linked incentives for players, who currently earn substantial amounts.

Pakistan leveled their ODI series against Bangladesh with a dominant win, but a controversial run-out of Salman Ali Agha stole the spotlight. Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz defended his actions, stating Agha was out of his crease and a potential run was on. Despite the debate, Pakistan's bowlers secured a convincing victory.

Pakistan batter Salman Ali Agha was reprimanded after the second ODI against Bangladesh national cricket team at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. He was controversially run out by Mehidy Hasan Miraz after trying to pick up a live ball. Frustrated, Agha threw his gloves and argued with Litton Das, leading to a Level 1 breach under the International Cricket Council Code. Pakistan still won by 128 runs via DLS.

Far-right activist Laura Loomer apologised for "anti-India" social media posts after facing backlash for racist remarks. While she expressed regret for offending people, Loomer stood firm on her opposition to the H-1B visa program, citing a need to protect American workers. She also criticized Pakistan, accusing it of supporting extremist networks.

Despite India's rich intellectual tradition and early Nobel laureates like Tagore and Raman, the country has experienced long gaps in recognition. Factors like brain drain, limited funding, and an emphasis on publications over long-term innovation hinder the journey from research to global acclaim. The case of Mahatma Gandhi's missed Peace Prize also highlights complexities beyond merit.

Indian airlines are increasing ticket prices due to soaring aviation fuel costs, driven by Middle East geopolitical tensions. Akasa Air, following Air India and IndiGo, will implement fuel surcharges from March 15th, ranging from Rs 199 to Rs 1,300.

Tensions flared near Girish Park in Kolkata as TMC and BJP supporters clashed, pelting stones and raising slogans just before Prime Minister Modi's rally. Both parties accused each other of initiating the violence, with claims of damaged vehicles and hurled abuses. Police intervened to restore order in the area.

Abrar Ahmed, the Pakistan spinner, was bought by Sunrisers Leeds, a franchise controlled by the owners of IPL's Sunrisers Hyderabad, for £190,000 (around PKR 7 crore) on Thursday during The Hundred. However, the mystery spinner may not receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC), as the Pakistan national cricket team is scheduled to tour West Indies for a two-match Test series during that period.

Pakistan grapples with an escalating economic crisis as Middle East conflict disrupts vital oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Soaring fuel prices are impacting farmers, urban commuters, and households, forcing difficult choices. With the nation already financially strained, prolonged energy shortages threaten to destabilize its economy further, affecting daily life and traditional celebrations.