Times of India

Kaziah Liz Mejo, a 19-year-old law student and model from Kerala, has won the Miss Universe India 2026 crown in Jaipur. The Mavelikkara native, who grew up in Abu Dhabi, has a strong background in academics, classical dance, music and acting. She will represent India at the 75th Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico in November.

In 1998, about 12,000 metric tonnes of orange peels and pulp were spread over a degraded pasture in Costa Rica as part of an unusual forest restoration experiment. Sixteen years later, researchers found that the site had developed into a dense forest, with richer soil, greater tree diversity and a 176% increase in aboveground biomass.

Heavy rain in Gurgaon caused school buses and vans to become stuck. Many children remained inside their vehicles for hours due to severe waterlogging. Parents experienced significant anxiety as they could not reach their stranded children. Some children arrived home wet and cold after prolonged delays. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of school transport during intense rainfall.

The United States faces a critical precision weapon shortage. This deficit impacts its ability to deter Chinese aggression in the Pacific. Current global conflicts have depleted American military stockpiles significantly. The US is now accelerating production and adopting new strategies. This aims to counter China's growing military capabilities effectively.

Indian regulators are increasing scrutiny of alcoholic beverage manufacturers. The FSSAI is investigating alleged violations involving flavor additives and age claims. This action focuses on flavors used to mimic natural spirit characteristics. Consumers are urged to pay closer attention to product labels and disclosures. The FSSAI's move highlights growing concerns about product authenticity and transparency.

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has entered its fifth year. The conflict has devolved into trench warfare, resembling the First World War. Both sides face immense human and financial costs in this attritional struggle. Ukraine's adaptability and Western support sustain its defenses against Russian advances. This prolonged war tests endurance and reshapes Europe's security order.

Perplexity, the AI search startup led by Aravind Srinivas that once made an unsolicited $34.5 billion bid for Google's Chrome browser, is now in talks with Nvidia for funding. The Information reports the round would value Perplexity above $30 billion, up more than 50 percent from its last valuation, as annualised revenue climbs past $750 million on the back of its Perplexity Computer agent.

Heavy rains lashed Delhi-NCR on Monday, causing significant waterlogging and traffic congestion. Authorities in Gurgaon issued a work-from-home advisory for August 25 due to the downpour. Several key roads and underpasses in Delhi also experienced severe water accumulation. Flight operations were disrupted, with fifteen Delhi-bound flights being diverted. Civic teams were deployed to manage the situation and clear waterlogged areas.

Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's role in strengthening bilateral ties. He noted that trade turnover between Russia and India has significantly increased this year. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed good wishes and discussed economic cooperation details. Both leaders anticipate future meetings at upcoming international summits. The India-Russia partnership demonstrates resilience and adaptability amidst global complexities.

An autorickshaw driver faced assault from protesters opposing the Marathi language proficiency drive. Demonstrations occurred in several Mumbai locations, including Kandivali and Malad West. Some protesters disrupted services and forced passengers to deboard their vehicles. Misinformation about fines fueled panic among drivers unable to speak Marathi. The situation normalized later in the day after police intervention.

With his place under pressure and Sarfaraz Khan breathing down his neck, Dhruv Jurel delivered when India needed him most. His hard-earned hundred in Colombo could be the knock that turns a make-or-break series into a career-defining one. India declared their first innings at 503 for 9 as only 53 overs were possible on Day 2.

In a phenomenal display of skill, Rishabh Pant has outshone Adam Gilchrist's Test six record, achieving an impressive 102 sixes over just 52 matches, positioning him third globally. Additionally, he has set a new benchmark as India's highest run-scorer among wicketkeepers in away Tests, surpassing MS Dhoni's previous record. Furthermore, Pant leads India in the World Test Championship run-scorer tally.

The aunt of a deceased teenager has released an emotional video pleading for an end to unverified claims. She stated that false narratives about the family's tragedy are circulating widely on social media. The family is already struggling with immense grief and distress from the recent deaths. She appealed to social media users to consider the family left behind before posting.

The bond between N. R. Narayana Murthy and Sudha Murty originated from their shared love of literature, evolving into a remarkable alliance. Sudha's investment of ₹10,000 was crucial for the inception of Infosys, even though her non-founding status once left her feeling undervalued. Despite their individual journeys, they fostered a robust partnership grounded in trust and admiration.

Yashasvi Jaiswal took to social media to address a recent video highlighting his confrontation with Fernando. He emphasised the importance of understanding the entire dialogue before forming opinions. The tension arose when the Indian opener was dismissed, leading to an exchange of words and a brief scuffle that required intervention. India's batting coach later remarked that Jaiswal should have kept a respectful distance from the bowler.

In an exciting turn of events, an American archaeology student has stumbled upon a ninth-century gold artifact in Northumberland during her very first excavation. This intricately designed piece, likely serving a ceremonial purpose, was found close to Dere Street, linking it to the historical narratives of Roman and early medieval Britain.