Times of India

The Supreme Court questioned extending reservation benefits to affluent individuals within backward classes, emphasizing social mobility through empowerment. Justices noted that children of well-placed government employees should ideally exit the reservation system.

Tier-2 cities are driving India's real estate boom, with Karnal emerging as a prime North Indian destination. Its strategic location, robust industrial base, and planned infrastructure, including upcoming RRTS connectivity, offer premium living without the congestion of metros. This makes Karnal an attractive hub for both residents and investors seeking luxury and convenience.

WHO's Africa director warns against underestimating the Ebola outbreak in DRC and Uganda, stressing that even one case could spread widely due to the lack of a vaccine for this strain. He urged for greater international attention, highlighting the potential risk to all from a single infected individual. Efforts are underway to boost testing and community engagement amidst challenges.

In India's democracy, fractured election mandates often shift power to governors, who become arbiters of government formation. The recent Tamil Nadu election saw actor-turned-politician Vijay's party emerge as the single largest, but the governor's discretion in inviting him to form the government sparked debate over constitutional conventions and political arithmetic.

Carolina Hurricanes forward William Carrier says his wife and family are cheering for the Montreal Canadiens in the NHL playoffs. The surprise family feud has been one of the more fun stories coming out of the Eastern Conference Final. But Carrier remains 100 percent focused on helping Carolina keep its impressive postseason run going, despite the awkward playoff loyalties inside his house.

CBSE’s On-Screen Marking (OSM) system has come under scrutiny after Class 12 results triggered complaints of blurred scans, alleged evaluation errors and unexpected marks. While the Ministry of Education has defended the digital process as secure and efficient, students claim it has affected fairness and transparency, leading to distress and demands for clearer evaluation and rechecking mechanisms.

Inspired by India's viral Cockroach Janta Party, satirical groups like the Cockroach Awami Party and Cockroach Awami League have emerged in Pakistan. These social media-driven parties, adopting similar themes, aim to represent "lazy and unemployed" youth and Gen-Z, offering an alternative to established political factions.

Juhi Chawla celebrates her son Arjun Mehta's graduation from Columbia University, following daughter Jahnavi's similar academic success at the Ivy League institution. Juhi shared joyful glimpses of Arjun's New York ceremony, highlighting his proud walk across the stage. The family's academic achievements continue to shine.

Mumbai ITAT grants capital gains tax relief to a taxpayer who filed his Income Tax Return late. The tribunal ruled that reinvesting gains into a new property before a belated return fulfills Section 54 requirements, even without depositing funds in the Capital Gains Account Scheme.

Ravichandran Ashwin believes Chennai Super Kings must invest in quality cricketers and a balanced squad for future IPL seasons. He stated the franchise can no longer rely on past strategies, emphasizing the need for experienced bowlers and spinners. Ashwin also questioned if the current CSK squad is suited for Chepauk's batting conditions, suggesting a more patient approach is required.

The PHF’s interim management announced that players and officials of the national team will receive a daily allowance of USD 110 during foreign tours.

Nibe Limited, a leading innovator in defense technology from India, has successfully tested its Vayu Astra Loitering Munition, which features a robust 10 kg warhead and a striking operational range of 100 km. This next-gen drone sets itself apart with its operator-controlled functionality, empowering users to identify and engage targets dynamically.

India is taking a bold stand against doping in sports by proposing strict penalties for those involved in the distribution and trafficking of banned substances. With proposed jail sentences reaching ten years and substantial fines, this legislation seeks to defend the integrity of athletics and bring down the criminal networks that undermine it.

Iran has reportedly downed over two dozen US MQ-9 Reaper drones, costing nearly a billion dollars and impacting a significant portion of Washington's advanced unmanned fleet. These losses, occurring amid ongoing conflict, highlight the vulnerability of expensive drones in contested airspace. The Pentagon faces challenges replacing these crucial intelligence and strike assets.

Asian markets rallied Friday, buoyed by hopes of US-Iran peace talks, though volatile oil prices and Strait of Hormuz concerns fueled inflation worries. Tokyo led gains as investor sentiment improved. Despite diplomatic optimism, rising crude prices prompted reassessment of global interest rate expectations, with the US Federal Reserve potentially hiking rates later this year.

Acclaimed British actor Michael Keating, celebrated for his roles as Reverend George Stevens in 'EastEnders' and Vila Restal in 'Blake's 7', has passed away at 79. His extensive career spanned over four decades, gracing numerous beloved British television programmes. Fans and colleagues are mourning the loss of the talented performer, remembering his significant contributions to television.