Times of India

Around 300 individuals protested caste-based reservation in Delhi's Connaught Place, advocating for economic criteria over caste for government support and reforms in the quota system. Police detained over 20 protesters for demonstrating without permission. The "Reservation Hatao Andolan" organized the event, emphasizing that reforms should ensure benefits reach the truly needy across all communities.

In a significant move, the Enforcement Directorate raided the properties of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar located in Bengaluru and Bareilly. This action is tied to a money laundering case concerning malpractice in KPSC examinations, particularly focusing on a veterinary officer recruitment scandal. Gangwar's past role as the KPSC Controller of Examinations adds weight to the inquiry, following prior searches involving KPSC facilities and former officials.

In February this year, 14 legendary captains from five countries — including Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and Greg Chappell, a former head coach of Team India — had made a fervent, emotional appeal to the Pakistan government about ensuring proper treatment for Imran, amid mounting concerns about the cricketing icon’s health. However, there was no response from the Pakistan government to the cricket legends’ request.

Devdutt Padikkal scored his second Test hundred, but it was his 120-run stand with India captain Shubman Gill that offered a trailer of a potential blockbuster in the making. India's No. 3 and No. 4 have only had three century partnerships since 2019, and this third instance in Colombo today is certainly not going to be the first and last involving the left-right pair.

Travis Kelce's net worth reaches ninety million dollars by 2026. His NFL salary totals over one hundred eleven million dollars in career earnings. A significant podcast deal with Amazon's Wondery is valued at one hundred million dollars. Endorsement income and business ventures further boost his substantial financial portfolio. His marriage to Taylor Swift has also broadened his commercial appeal.

Fresh footage indicates it is fully operational again, complete with reconstructed domes, updated interior plastering, new paint, and premium marble flooring that conceals previous blast damage. Deep blast zones within the primary hall were filled with concrete, while ruined satellite buildings—including the Al-Sabir seminary and housing units for leadership—were demolished to enable new construction.

Devdutt Padikkal, who was batting on 91, needed only a few deliveries to reach three figures. He hit Prabath Jayasuriya for two consecutive boundaries before taking a single to complete his century. The hundred is Padikkal's second century in Test cricket.

In a bold move, actor Mukesh Khanna has proposed the replacement of Jana Gana Mana with Vande Mataram as India's national anthem. Citing Jana Gana Mana's ties to colonial history and its homage to a monarch, Khanna argues that Vande Mataram encapsulates a deeper patriotism. This assertion comes to light following remarks from Sharmila Tagore and Kangana Ranaut, as Vande Mataram sees a resurgence in its significance during national celebrations.

Sanjay Raut challenged Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah to sing Vande Mataram without teleprompters. He also questioned the government's economic record and rising inflation. The BJP condemned the Congress decision to sing only two stanzas of the national song. Congress leaders accused the BJP of politicizing patriotism and nationalism for political gain. Both parties are trading charges over the national song's recitation and its significance.

Ben Stokes made a stunning return to red-ball cricket, scoring 53 and an unbeaten 66 before taking seven wickets against Derbyshire. His 5-17 spell included three wickets in four balls, helping Durham secure a massive 338-run victory. The win moved Durham to the top of the County Championship, with Stokes showing he remains a major all-round force.

A youth died after jumping from Khavda Hill following a family dispute. His parents and mother also died moments later at the same location. The teenager had remained near the cliff edge for three hours despite rescue efforts. Villagers and police attempted to persuade him to move to safety. This incident occurred on Friday morning in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district.

The Su-30MKI remains a vital pillar of India's combat fleet. This heavy fighter provides essential long-range strike and air superiority capabilities. Newer aircraft like Rafale and Tejas fulfill different roles within the air force. Modernization programs will ensure the Su-30MKI's relevance for decades to come. This strategy balances numbers, range, and advanced technology for national defense.