Times of India

Microsoft is implementing a new performance strategy, offering underperforming employees a severance package of 16 weeks' pay to voluntarily leave instead of entering a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP). Employees have five days to decide, and those choosing the PIP forfeit the payout.

In Pahalgam, Kashmir, a terror attack killed Navy Lieutenant Vinay Narwal. He was honeymooning with his wife, Himanshi, when gunmen attacked. Irshad Ahmad, a local, helped them after the shooting. Narwal, recently married, died at the scene. His family in Karnal mourns the loss. The Navy and community remember him as a dedicated officer. Authorities are investigating the attack.

Bill Gates reportedly gifted his daughter Jennifer a $15.82 million horse farm in North Salem, Westchester, following her Stanford graduation in 2018. The estate, equipped with equestrian facilities, supports Jennifer's passion for competitive horse riding. This purchase contrasts with Melinda Gates' past statements emphasizing a modest upbringing for their children, sparking discussions about wealth and values within the family.

In a powerful act of bravery and compassion, Sajad Ahmad Bhat, a shawl hawker from Pahalgam, carried injured tourists to safety after the terror attack in Baisaran Valley that killed 28. Responding selflessly, Sajad and others rushed to aid victims, offering water and support. His gesture has drawn widespread praise, showcasing Kashmir’s humanity amid tragedy.

Chinese companies are reportedly evading steep US tariffs by fraudulently exporting goods as South Korean products, according to Nikkei Asia news. Korea Customs Service revealed falsely labeled exports reached 29.5 billion won in early 2025, with 97% destined for the US.

Colin Munro ignited controversy in the PSL by accusing Iftikhar Ahmed of chucking during Islamabad United's successful chase against Multan Sultans. Munro's gesture prompted a heated exchange, but Islamabad United secured their fifth consecutive win, propelled by Andries Gous's unbeaten 80. Earlier, Multan Sultans posted 168 for 5, with Usman Khan scoring 61.

Stock market today: Indian equity benchmark indices, BSE Sensex and Nifty50, opened in red on Thursday. While BSE Sensex went below 80,000, Nifty50 was below 24,300.

Former BJP MP and current Indian cricket head coach Gautam Gambhir has reported receiving death threats from "ISIS Kashmir," prompting him to seek police protection. He filed a formal complaint requesting an FIR after receiving threatening emails. This incident follows a similar threat in 2021.

Following the Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir, a former US Pentagon official likened it to the October 7 Hamas attacks in Israel, highlighting the targeting of a specific religious group. The official urged India to retaliate against Pakistan and its ISI, similar to Israel's response to Hamas.

Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 28 lives, India has taken strong diplomatic action against Pakistan, accusing it of supporting cross-border terrorism. Measures include suspending the Indus Water Treaty, closing the Attari border crossing, and cancelling SAARC visas for Pakistani nationals. Pakistan is set to convene a National Security Committee meeting to formulate a response to India's actions.

Ishan Kishan's bizarre dismissal in the IPL clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians has sparked debate. Despite replays showing no contact between bat and ball, and no appeal from MI, Kishan walked, seemingly convinced he edged it. This unusual incident occurred during an SRH batting collapse, leaving commentators like Harsha Bhogle perplexed.

Pahalgam witnessed a terror attack. Twenty-eight tourists lost their lives. Some survived by reciting Islamic verses or due to unforeseen circumstances. A professor from Assam University recited the kalma. A techie from Bengaluru was killed for identifying as Hindu. A family from Kerala avoided the attack due to a delayed lunch order. A honeymooning couple's trip turned tragic.

Donald Trump criticized Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his stance on Crimea, claiming it hinders peace negotiations with Russia. Trump suggested Zelenskyy's refusal to compromise and insistence on reclaiming Crimea are inflammatory and prolong the conflict. He emphasized his commitment to ending the war to prevent further casualties, while Zelenskyy maintains Ukraine's territorial integrity will not be compromised.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the NEET UG 2025 city intimation slip on April 23, ahead of the May 4 exam. Over 23 lakh candidates can now check their allotted exam city at neet.nta.nic.in. The official admit card will be available by May 1. The offline exam will run from 2 PM to 5 PM in 566 cities. Candidates must carry valid ID and follow guidelines strictly. Results are expected by June 14, 2025.

Sachin Tendulkar, celebrated his 52nd birthday, remains cricket's highest run-scorer with 34,357 runs across 664 international appearances. His influence extends globally, inspiring modern stars like Kohli and Smith. Tendulkar's career highlights include winning the 2011 World Cup and setting numerous records, solidifying his legacy as the "God of Cricket," despite Kohli surpassing his ODI century record.

Entrepreneur Aman Gupta and Kunal Bahl from Shark Tank India expressed profound grief and disbelief over the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in 26 fatalities. Gupta shared his sorrow on X, reflecting the collective pain felt nationwide. Bahl, a long-time admirer of Kashmir, voiced his frustration and concern over safety, halting his encouragement of tourism to the region.

UBS upgraded Chola Investment citing growth and RoE, while JP Morgan upgraded HCL Tech highlighting its consistent performance and attractive valuation. Nomura maintains a 'buy' rating on Havells India, anticipating margin expansion driven by demand tailwinds. Morgan Stanley is optimistic about AU Small Finance Bank's RoA improvement, and HSBC recommends Mahindra & Mahindra due to its strong market position.

Newlyweds Lt Vinay Narwal and Himanshi's joy turned to tragedy six days after their Mussoorie wedding when Narwal was killed in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The couple had chosen Kashmir over Europe for their honeymoon due to visa delays. Narwal's body was returned to Karnal, draped in the Tricolour, amidst widespread grief and calls for retribution.

Sunny Deol and Randeep Hooda's action film 'Jaat' faces box office challenges after a promising start. The film struggles to maintain momentum in its second week. It earns its lowest single-day collection on Day 14. 'Jaat' is also facing competition from Akshay Kumar's 'Kesari Chapter 2'. Despite this, 'Jaat' surpasses the lifetime collection of 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha'.