TOI - Most Recent Stories

• newAmazon HR email to staff: ‘What you did last year’; asked to list specific wins and growth plans
  Amazon is now demanding corporate employees detail three to five key accomplishments annually, a shift from broader self-assessments. This new 'Forte' performance review focuses on measurable impact and innovation, even highlighting unsuccessful risks. This move signals a broader trend in Silicon Valley towards increased accountability and discipline in the tech sector.
  - 30 mins ago 9 Jan 26, 10:46am -
• new'Jana Nayagan' gets clearance: Madras HC clears Vijay's movie; orders U/A certificate
  Madras High Court has directed the CBFC to grant a 'UA 16+' censor certificate for the theatrical release of actor Vijay's Tamil movie 'Jana Nayagan'. The court set aside the chairperson's decision to refer the film to a revising committee, emphasizing that the producer invested Rs 500 crore and had already made 27 modifications as per board recommendations.
  - 31 mins ago 9 Jan 26, 10:45am -
• new‘PM Modi did not call Trump’: US commerce secretary on trade deadlock — explains impasse
  US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated PM Modi's failure to call President Trump prevented a trade deal. This comes as the US imposes tariffs on countries buying Russian oil. India faces tariffs on its goods. Both nations are negotiating a comprehensive trade agreement with a goal to significantly boost bilateral trade by 2030.
  - 56 mins ago 9 Jan 26, 10:20am -
• newMahua, Derek dragged away from outside Amit Shah's office; TMC protests over I-PAC raid
  TMC leaders, including MPs, were detained protesting ED raids on I-PAC offices in Kolkata. The party alleges the raids, targeting election strategy data, are politically motivated harassment by the Union government ahead of West Bengal polls. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the action, calling it a vendetta and accusing the BJP of attempting to steal party documents.
  - 1 hour ago 9 Jan 26, 10:16am -
• new'Cannot support all his beliefs': Tharoor calls himself 'uncritical fan' of Nehru
  Shashi Tharoor, while respecting Jawaharlal Nehru as India's democratic founder, acknowledged his mistakes, stating the Modi government unfairly scapegoats him. He noted the 1962 China war defeat as a potential Nehru misstep, but criticized blaming him for all current issues. Tharoor also shared personal anecdotes about his writing journey and Kerala's reading culture.
  - 1 hour ago 9 Jan 26, 10:10am -
• newAnthony Edwards joins elite group with LeBron James, Kevin Durant after Cavs win
  Anthony Edwards has etched his name in NBA history, becoming the third-fastest player to surpass 10,000 career points before his 25th birthday, trailing only legends LeBron James and Kevin Durant. This remarkable achievement, coupled with his stellar season averages, propels the Minnesota Timberwolves forward as they extend their winning streak. Edwards' consistent brilliance continues to lead his team to victory.
  - 1 hour ago 9 Jan 26, 10:08am -
• newGoa MP, a Kargil veteran, gets SIR notice; CEO slams BLO for goof-up
  South Goa MP Capt Viriato Fernandes received an Election Commission notice to prove his identity, prompting the state CEO to blame a BLO for dereliction of duty. The system auto-generated the notice due to unmapped voter details, but the MP's name will be retained after clarification.
  - 1 hour ago 9 Jan 26, 9:58am -
• new'Daal roti nahi chalti ...': Virat Kohli's brother slams critics
  India batter Virat Kohli's brother, Vikas, has defended the cricketer against critics, suggesting some use Virat's name for relevance. This comes after former player Sanjay Manjrekar's comments on Kohli's Test career. Meanwhile, Kohli is preparing for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, aiming to continue his exceptional recent form.
  - 1 hour ago 9 Jan 26, 9:58am -
• newPrada bottles the warmth and comfort of chai with Infusion de Santal Chai perfume
  Italian luxury brand Prada has launched a new unisex fragrance, Infusion de Santal Chai, inspired by the popular Indian beverage. This scent blends creamy sandalwood with spicy chai latte notes, enhanced by citrus and cardamom for a warm yet fresh aroma. The unique perfume aims to capture the comforting essence of chai, sparking curiosity and debate among consumers.
  - 1 hour ago 9 Jan 26, 9:48am -
• newBengaluru road rage: Zepto delivery executive beaten, hit on chest with helmet
  A Zepto delivery executive was assaulted by two scooty riders after a minor collision in Mahadevpura. The attackers reportedly used a helmet and punches, leaving the executive vulnerable. An elderly bystander intervened, confronting the assailants and helping to end the attack. Police are investigating the incident.
  - 2 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 9:32am -
• newStock market today: Nifty50 opens above 25,900; BSE Sensex up over 140 points
  Stock market today: Indian equity benchmarks, Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, rose in trade on Friday after days of fall. While Nifty50 was above 25,900, BSE Sensex was up almost 150 points.
  - 2 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 9:19am -
• newWhat happens if Trump's tariffs are struck down? Traders 'worried' for $150 bn refunds
  US companies and trade lawyers are bracing for a potential $150 billion refund battle as the Supreme Court hears a case challenging President Trump's use of emergency powers for global tariffs. The outcome hinges on whether the International Emergency Economic Powers Act grants authority for such duties, with skepticism from justices fueling expectations of tariffs being struck down.
  - 2 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 9:18am -
• newPSL expansion - Two franchises sold for less than IPL superstars' paycheques
  The Pakistan Super League is expanding to eight teams for the 2026 season, with two new franchises sold for a combined $12.75 million. This figure highlights a significant financial disparity compared to the Indian Premier League, where even individual player salaries and franchise valuations far exceed these new PSL team prices, underscoring the IPL's immense economic power.
  - 2 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 9:15am -
• new'Don't need international law': Trump says 'my own morality' only restraint on global power
  US President Donald Trump asserted his "own morality" as the sole limit on his power to order military action globally, even as he spoke of peace. His administration has pursued an aggressive military posture, launching operations in Venezuela and threatening other nations, while Trump also expressed a desire for US "ownership" of Greenland.
  - 3 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 8:31am -
• newMeerut horror: Mother killed while shielding daughter from abductors
  A 50-year-old woman in Meerut died after being struck with a weapon while trying to protect her daughter from abductors. The attackers forcibly attempted to take the daughter, and when the mother intervened, she was fatally injured. Police have registered a murder and abduction case and formed teams to apprehend the suspects.
  - 3 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 8:29am -

• new'Shoot first, ask questions later': Denmark's warning to Trump; tensions soar over Greenland
  Denmark has warned its troops are under standing orders to "shoot first and ask questions later" if Greenland is attacked, as Europe grows anxious over potential US military action. The US is reportedly considering cash payments to Greenlanders to encourage independence from Denmark, a move European leaders are rallying against.
  - 3 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 8:21am -
• newT20 WC standoff: Bangladesh sends second letter to ICC, reiterates venue shift from India
  Bangladesh Cricket Board has formally requested the ICC to shift their T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka due to security concerns. The team has refused to travel to India, escalating uncertainty just weeks before the tournament. The BCB's stance has hardened following the IPL release of Mustafizur Rahman.
  - 3 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 8:19am -
• newBuying $200 bn worth of bonds! Trump’s new push to bring ‘mortgage rates down’
  US President Donald Trump plans a $200 billion federal purchase of mortgage bonds to lower rates and ease housing affordability concerns. Funds from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will be used, aiming to reduce monthly payments. This move comes ahead of midterm elections, though experts question its effectiveness against deeper market issues.
  - 3 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 8:17am -
• newOne killed, several injured in Philippines landfill collapse; at least 38 trapped
  A devastating garbage avalanche at a Cebu City waste facility tragically claimed one life and left many missing. Twelve workers were rescued alive from the collapsed debris, but fears remain for at least 38 others believed trapped. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities prioritizing aid for affected families.
  - 3 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 8:15am -
• new'Amit Shah is nasty, naughty’: Mamata Banerjee says ED snatched our poll strategy
  The ED searched I-PAC's office and a director's home in a five-year-old case, prompting CM Mamata Banerjee to label it political vendetta. Banerjee visited the director's residence, leaving with documents, and later went to I-PAC's office, accusing the Union Home Minister of attempting to seize party strategies.
  - 3 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 8:06am -
• newDelhi-NCR sees season's lowest at 4.6°C after unexpected early morning rain
  Delhi-NCR experienced an unexpected early Friday rain spell, intensifying the cold wave and failing to significantly improve alarmingly high air pollution levels. The showers, accompanied by cold winds, lowered the chill factor, with minimum temperatures expected around 6°C. Dense fog is also anticipated, with cold-day conditions likely to persist across northern and central regions.
  - 3 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 8:00am -
• newRussia accuses US of forceful seizure of vessel; calls it maritime law breach
  
  - 3 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 7:52am -
• new‘Can I crack your back’: Teen narrates sexual assault by national shooting coach
  A national shooting coach, Ankush Bharadwaj, faces charges under the POCSO Act for allegedly sexually assaulting a 17-year-old trainee at a five-star hotel. The incident occurred after a match, with the coach reportedly forcing himself on the shooter. Bharadwaj has been suspended by the National Rifles Association of India following the FIR.
  - 4 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 7:39am -
• new‘She behaved horribly, ran over him’: Trump defends ICE agent who shot Minneapolis woman dead
  US President Trump defended an ICE agent after a fatal shooting in Minneapolis, claiming the woman tried to run over the officer. The woman, Renee Nicole Good, was killed by multiple shots fired into her car during a federal operation. Local leaders disputed the federal account, with the mayor calling for ICE to leave the city.
  - 4 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 7:39am -
• newAnti-Khamenei protests rage on: Iran govt shuts internet; Trump warns to 'hit very hard'
  Iran has imposed severe communication restrictions, including internet and phone shutdowns, amidst escalating protests against economic hardship. Exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi condemned the government's actions, urging international intervention. Meanwhile, US President Trump issued a stern warning against violent crackdowns, while US officials voiced support for peaceful demonstrators. The unrest, fueled by currency collapse and inflation, has spread nationwide.
  - 4 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 7:34am -
• newTop stocks to buy: Stock recommendations for today - check list
  Stock market recommendations: Bajaj Broking Research recommends buying Hindustan Unilever, and Tata Power as top stock picks for January 9, 2026. Here’s its view on Nifty and Bank Nifty:
  - 4 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 7:30am -
• new'Dhurandhar' sets week 5 record with Rs 51.25 crore haul
  Aditya Dhar's 'Dhurandhar' starring Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna has achieved a remarkable feat, setting a new box office record for week 5 collections. The film's fifth week raked in Rs 51.25 crore, surpassing the previous record by a significant margin. 'Dhurandhar' has now amassed a net total of Rs 790.
  - 5 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 5:50am -
• newNot just India & China, EU too faces US threat
  
  - 6 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 5:37am -
• newEAM Jaishankar meets French President Macron; conveys PM Modi’s warm wishes
  
  - 6 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 5:20am -
• newBJP planning high-pitched campaign to best DMK in Tamil Nadu
  
  - 6 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 4:50am -
• newLove, sex aur dhokha: Bengaluru techie strips for ‘AI girlfriend’; falls into sextortion racket
  A 22-year-old software professional fell victim to a sextortion scam after connecting with a deepfake girlfriend on a dating app. Coerced into a video call and secretly recorded, he was then blackmailed for Rs 1.5 lakh. Police are investigating the AI-generated scam and urge users to exercise caution.
  - 7 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 4:19am -
• newMystery murder: 30-year-old’s body chopped into 6 pieces; head stuffed in drum
  A 30-year-old man was found brutally murdered and dismembered in Ludhiana, his head discovered in a drum. Police have registered a case against his friend and the friend's wife, who were captured on CCTV carrying the drum. The motive is currently under investigation.
  - 8 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 3:09am -
• newWho is Jonathan Ross, the ICE agent who shot Renee Good dead in Minneapolis?
  
  - 9 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 2:05am -
• newNASA cancels planned ISS spacewalk after astronaut falls ill
  A medical issue with an unnamed astronaut has forced NASA to postpone spacewalks at the International Space Station, raising concerns about the Crew 11 mission's duration. While the astronaut is stable, the incident highlights the inherent challenges and need for flexibility in long-term space operations. NASA prioritizes crew safety and will provide updates soon.
  - 9 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 2:00am -
• newUP moves to attach assets of doctor accused of sexual exploitation, forced conversions
  
  - 10 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 1:40am -
• new2020 Delhi riots case: Sharjeel Imam denies 'mentor link' with Umar Khalid
  Sharjeel Imam's counsel argued in Karkardooma Court that no conspiracy could be proven against him in the 2020 Delhi riots case. The defense highlighted the absence of any communication linking Imam to co-accused Umar Khalid and stated his speeches lacked a causal link to the violence.
  - 10 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 1:27am -
• newWriting on the wall? Delhi University bids adieu to ‘walls of democracy’
  Delhi University has reportedly denotified its designated 'Walls of Democracy' where students could post notices and express opinions. This move came after security staff prevented students from pasting posters, tearing them down and informing them of the university's decision.
  - 10 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 1:06am -
• new$10,000 to $100,000 per person: Trump considers paying Greenlanders to ‘buy’ island for US
  
  - 11 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 12:38am -
• newRs 58 crore digital arrest fraudsters opened 10k mule accounts: Cops
  
  - 11 hours ago 9 Jan 26, 12:34am -
• newRussian tanker seized by US: 3 Indians among detained crew
  
  - 12 hours ago 8 Jan 26, 11:14pm -
• newFortnite v39.20 update: Release times for all regions
  Fortnite's v39.20 update arrives January 9, 2025, featuring a massive South Park crossover. Players can expect iconic characters like Stan, Kyle, Cartman, and Kenny as mech-suited skins, alongside the controversial Towelie as a sidekick. A 'Stick of Truth' mythic item and a new five-player squad mode are also rumored. A special mini-pass will offer exclusive collaboration rewards.
  - 16 hours ago 8 Jan 26, 7:44pm -
• new'Stay hungry, stay foolish': Jobs urged students to trust intuition; speech shaped Mac design
  Steve Jobs, a renowned tech entrepreneur, shared his decision to drop out of college, highlighting its unexpected benefits. He emphasized the importance of following one's curiosity and intuition, as this led him to discover calligraphy, a skill that later profoundly influenced the design of the Macintosh computer and personal computers in general.
  - 18 hours ago 8 Jan 26, 5:27pm -
• Stefon Diggs–Cardi B drama grows as Patriots playoff distraction
  The New England Patriots are winning, but celebrity drama, particularly involving Stefon Diggs and Cardi B, overshadows their on-field success. While quarterback Drake Maye shows promise, Diggs' crucial role in the offense is undeniable. Coach Mike Vrabel attempts to maintain focus amidst the off-field noise, but the team's playoff hopes hinge on managing these distractions.
  - 1 day ago 8 Jan 26, 5:32am -
• Candace Owens questions Charlie Kirk after sharing unseen image with no blood
  Candace Owens shared claims about a photo she says shows Charlie Kirk after an alleged shooting. She questioned the official story and named people she said could not be trusted. However, there is no verified evidence, police record, or official confirmation that Charlie Kirk was shot or killed. Her statements remain unproven and widely disputed.
  - 1 day ago 8 Jan 26, 2:05am -
• Philanthropy push: Jeff Bezos’ ex-wife donates billions to non-profits; biggest giveaway in 2025
  Mackenzie Scott, ex-wife of Amazon's founder, has significantly reduced her stake in the e-commerce giant, selling shares worth $13 billion. She continues her massive philanthropic efforts, donating $7.1 billion to non-profits in 2025 alone, including over $1.2 billion to Historically Black Colleges and Universities. These substantial, unrestricted grants are seen as a counterpoint to tech companies scaling back DEI initiatives.
  - 2 days ago 7 Jan 26, 5:50pm -
• Tommy Fleetwood & Clare Fleetwood net worth: Golf earnings, sponsors, family
  Tommy and Clare Fleetwood have built a significant fortune through Tommy's successful golf career, prize money, and lucrative brand deals. Clare, as his manager, plays a crucial role in their financial success and their private family life. Their collaborative approach has led to both on-course achievements and long-term financial stability.
  - 2 days ago 7 Jan 26, 6:10am -