TOI - Most Recent Stories

• newThe new arms race: 7 technologies that could decide who wins the next big war
  The next major war may begin with silent cyberattacks and autonomous drone swarms. Artificial intelligence and networked systems are making weapons faster and deadlier. Hypersonic missiles and laser weapons offer new defensive and offensive capabilities. Electronic warfare and satellite capabilities are becoming increasingly critical in modern conflict. Nations are integrating diverse technologies into unified fighting machines for decisive advantage.
  - 35 mins ago 12 Aug 26, 6:32pm -
• new'Got firebombed': Trump aide Navarro recalls backlash after remarks on India
  
  - 39 mins ago 12 Aug 26, 6:28pm -
• newZhu Rongji, former premier who changed China's economic fate passes away at 97
  
  - 48 mins ago 12 Aug 26, 6:19pm -
• newStudy finds one-third of farmland drives two-thirds of farming's nature loss
  A global study reveals one-third of farmland causes two-thirds of farming's environmental damage. Beef and dairy production significantly contribute to biodiversity loss and carbon storage decline. High-impact regions in South America and Asia face concentrated environmental degradation. International trade shifts these environmental impacts between exporting and importing nations. Targeted restoration of impacted land offers substantial climate and nature protection benefits.
  - 50 mins ago 12 Aug 26, 6:17pm -
• newTears, explosion of sad emojis: Jeff Dean shares last few hours at Google
  Google's former chief scientist Jeff Dean shared an hour-by-hour timeline of his last two days at Google at the KDD 2026 conference in Jeju. It covers an emotional video call breaking the news to 139 close colleagues, a farewell party 1,500 people crashed, a 2:30 AM scramble to answer 400 disappearing chat messages, and one minute of unemployment before he became Discovery Loop co-founder at midnight.
  - 60 mins ago 12 Aug 26, 6:07pm -
• newPatrick Mahomes faces body criticism from NFL coach despite No. 1 QB ranking
  Patrick Mahomes remains the NFL’s No. 1 quarterback despite a difficult season and serious knee injury. However, an anonymous defensive coach offered blunt criticism of his physique, saying Mahomes has a “belly” and suggesting conditioning could become more important later in his career. Other league insiders remained confident in his abilities, with one comparing his potential longevity to Joe Montana. Mahomes turns 31 in September.
  - 1 hour ago 12 Aug 26, 6:02pm -
• newMeet the potter wasp, the insect that builds its own mudhouse
  Distinguished by their pot-shaped mud nests, Potter wasps are solitary insects that exhibit incredible craftsmanship. Using a combination of mud and saliva, they build their homes with care. Following egg-laying, the females venture out to capture caterpillars, which serve as nutritious meals for their growing larvae. Their activities help maintain ecological balance and contribute to effective pest management across diverse environments.
  - 1 hour ago 12 Aug 26, 6:00pm -
• newK'taka cabinet tussle: DKS keeps finance, Khader gets minority and health
  Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has allocated portfolios to twenty-three ministers. Key departments like finance and home were retained by Shivakumar himself. U T Khader received minority welfare and health, while R Ramalinga Reddy got forest. K H Muniyappa was assigned social welfare, fulfilling his lobbying efforts. The government now prepares for the monsoon session amid some internal party discontent.
  - 1 hour ago 12 Aug 26, 5:57pm -
• newHours after Gautam Gambhir's visit to Galle, lawn mower hits the pitch
  Sri Lanka held a closed-door practice session in Galle as India coaches Gautam Gambhir and Sitanshu Kotak briefly inspected the pitch. Groundstaff worked extensively on the surface, which could influence India’s choice between three spinners or three seamers. Rain remains a concern ahead of the Test. India will resume training Thursday after completing an intensive preparation camp in Colombo.
  - 1 hour ago 12 Aug 26, 5:46pm -
• newIn 1922, Olaus Murie entered Alaska to study caribou and wildlife ecosystems
  Olaus Murie began studying Alaskan caribou in 1922, which influenced ecological wildlife understanding. His brother Adolph later investigated wolves and Dall sheep, challenging predator control assumptions. Adolph's research examined species interactions within the wider ecosystem of Mount McKinley. This work helped shift park management away from viewing predators solely as pests. The Muries' ecological approach continues to inform Denali's conservation efforts today.
  - 1 hour ago 12 Aug 26, 5:45pm -
• newConor McGregor breaks alcohol-free streak after Hollywood star’s 7-year sobriety
  Conor McGregor has ended his latest alcohol-free streak after Brad Pitt revealed that he had resumed drinking in moderation following seven years of sobriety. McGregor said Pitt’s decision inspired him to enjoy a few pints of Forged Irish Stout. The UFC star is currently recovering from ACL and meniscus surgery after his UFC 329 injury against Max Holloway.
  - 2 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 5:15pm -
• newFIFA president offered Mexico switch to CONMEBOL in exchange for vote: Reportt
  Fresh reports claim FIFA president Gianni Infantino offered to help Mexico leave CONCACAF and join CONMEBOL in exchange for political support ahead of the next FIFA presidential election. The alleged proposal could give Mexico access to stronger South American competition, but significant sporting, commercial and governance hurdles remain. Neither FIFA nor the Mexican Football Federation has commented on the claims.
  - 2 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 5:10pm -
• new'Jantar Mantar Season 2 soon': CJP founder Dipke hints at fresh protest plans
  Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke announced a new phase of protests soon. He mentioned that the second season of their Jantar Mantar movement is coming. Dipke also supported schoolchildren protesting for a proper road in Uttar Pradesh. He claimed the party faced venue difficulties for a Delhi volunteers' meeting. Dipke alleged pressure from authorities, which he attributed to the BJP.
  - 2 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 5:00pm -
• newCBSE Class 12 compartment result 2026 declared: Check direct link here
  The Central Board of Secondary Education has officially released the results for the Class 12 compartment exams today. Students can conveniently check their scores by visiting the official CBSE site and entering their roll numbers. The compartment exams were conducted on July 28, catering to over 1.6 lakh candidates this year. Additionally, results are available through DigiLocker and the UMANG mobile app for easy access.
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 4:33pm -
• newCPI data: Retail inflation moves up to 4.45% in July; above RBI's target for 2nd month
  Based on the All India Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI), provisional food inflation stood at 5.52% year-on-year in July 2026. Rural food inflation was estimated at 5.79%, whereas the corresponding rate for urban India was 5.05%.
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 4:23pm -

• newIran knew Trump's hotel floor, targeted his aircraft during Nato summit: Report
  
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 4:19pm -
• newCauvery row bandh: What's open and what's closed in Karnataka on August 13
  Karnataka braces for a statewide bandh and potential disruptions on Thursday. Pro-Kannada groups demand action on the Cauvery water dispute and other projects. Public transport and commercial activities may face significant impact across the state. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are also predicted, compounding potential travel issues. Residents are advised to check conditions before undertaking long-distance journeys.
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 4:16pm -
• newGovernment suspends Table Tennis federation recognition over governance issues
  The ministry also asked the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to set up an ad-hoc committee to oversee the administration of table tennis in the country until a proper governance structure is restored.
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:59pm -
• newCharged Rs 30 for carry bags, Red Tape told to pay Rs 26,000 compensation
  A Gurugram consumer commission found Red Tape guilty of unfair trade practices. The company charged a customer thirty rupees for three shopping bags. This action was deemed a deficiency in service by the commission. Red Tape was ordered to refund the amount and pay compensation. The company must also pay fifteen thousand rupees for mental harassment.
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:54pm -
• new'Charges proved': House panel indicts ex-HC judge Yashwant Varma in cash-at-home case
  
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:51pm -
• new'Aap thoda badal gaye ho': Modi-Kharge banter at Supriya Sule's daughter's reception
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leaders interacted at a wedding reception. Modi exchanged pleasantries with Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Mallikarjun Kharge joined the conversation, noting the Prime Minister had changed. The leaders shared a brief, light-hearted moment during the event. Several prominent political figures attended the high-profile gathering.
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:47pm -
• new'India not banana republic': Rijiju says FCRA a must to monitor foreign funding
  Union minister Kiren Rijiju said India was not a "banana republic" and that there should be rules and regulations to spend foreign funds. The proposed legislation, aimed to manage the gap in the regulation of foregin fundings to NGOs and curb the proselytisation, was fiercely criticised the opposition that termed the bill "anti minority". Union minister Nityanand Rai moved the motion in the Lok Sabha after the House resumed proceedings.
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:47pm -
• new'No force used': Cong defends J'khand govt amid youth stir
  
  - 3 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:44pm -
• newFrom trainee to Tata chairman: Remarkable rise of Ratan Tata’s pick N Chandrasekaran
  Popularly known as Chandra in corporate circles, he became the first non-Parsi chairman in the Tata Group's 150-year history and was personally chosen for the role by the late Ratan Tata. The Tata Group expanded significantly under his leadership. According to company figures, aggregate revenue increased from Rs 7.89 lakh crore in FY20 to Rs 16.24 lakh crore in FY26.
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:27pm -
• new'Dhurandhar' actor Rakesh Bedi raises concern over adulteration of food and alcohol
  Rakesh Bedi, the esteemed veteran actor, has raised urgent alarms about the rampant adulteration of food and alcohol. He firmly asserts that those who compromise consumer safety should face harsh repercussions. Notably, he pointed out that numerous alcoholic drinks marketed in India are not authentic. Bedi believes that food adulterators should even be charged with attempted murder, emphasizing his commitment to advocating for public well-being through social media.
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:19pm -
• new'Allocate time starting today': Shah writes to Birla for debate on NEET protests
  
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:16pm -
• newBihar village boy who cracked JEE at 13, interned at Apple and now works in the US
  Satyam Kumar's inspiring story commenced in a humble farming family in Bihar. Demonstrating exceptional talent, he attended IIT Kanpur where he studied electrical engineering and conducted research. Following this, he pursued a PhD at UT Austin with a focus on brain-computer interfaces. His impressive internship at Apple was a stepping stone, leading to his current role at Texas Instruments, illustrating a seamless transition from academia to industry.
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:13pm -
• new'Heard a whisper': Baby rescued from rubble 48 hrs after Colombia quake - video
  
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:11pm -
• newOracle layoffs: Company's '6 am layoff emails' may return in next few days
  Oracle is preparing another round of layoffs this month, with cuts reaching double-digit percentages on some teams and managers already asked to name affected employees. The company wants payroll reduced before its second quarter starts on September 1. Oracle has already shed 21,000 jobs in a year, down to 141,000 staff, as it funds a debt-heavy AI data centre buildout that burned $23.7 billion in cash last fiscal year.
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:05pm -
• newVikram’s Lar Gibbon video sparks forest probe; 1 animal dead and 2 sent back to Erode
  Actor Vikram's video featuring an endangered gibbon has prompted a forest department investigation. Officials are examining how the animal reached the actor and its ownership chain. A third gibbon, linked to the same breeder, reportedly died without notification. The surviving gibbons have been returned to Erode as the inquiry continues. This case highlights concerns regarding the legal movement of exotic animals.
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:01pm -
• newSpeaking Marathi must for cab drivers in Maharashtra, violations to cost permit
  Maharashtra transport minister Pratap Sarnaik announced new rules for drivers. Commercial passenger vehicle drivers must now know Marathi for their jobs. Failing to demonstrate this skill could lead to permit suspension. This directive applies to auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cab operators. The state government aims for better communication and passenger safety.
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 3:00pm -
• newHow Ukraine combined missiles & drones in a 'unique' strike on Russian stronghold
  Ukraine reported a significant overnight strike on Russia's Novorossiysk naval base. Jet-powered drones and missiles successfully targeted air defense and port infrastructure. This attack disrupted vital grain export operations at two major terminals. Russian officials confirmed civilian casualties and damage to enterprises and buildings. The strike occurred amid broader exchanges of long-range attacks between both nations.
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 2:54pm -
• newSri Lanka announce 16-member squad for India Test, Kusal Mendis ruled out
  Sri Lanka Cricket has revealed its lineup for the forthcoming Test series against India. Niroshan Dickwella makes his return to the Test squad following injury recovery. Dhananjaya de Silva will lead the team, with Kamindu Mendis serving as vice-captain. The squad boasts three specialist spin bowlers alongside a formidable pace unit. This series forms an essential part of the ICC World Test Championship cycle.
  - 4 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 2:51pm -
• newMallika Sherawat was married at 21 to a pilot, her uncle revealed the reason for divorce
  
  - 5 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 2:31pm -
• newWhy Russia is buying gasoline from India for the first time
  Kpler data shows the first cargo arrived on August 5, with additional shipments expected to follow. Nayara Energy Ltd, the Indian refiner backed by Russia's largest oil producer Rosneft PJSC, has emerged as a supplier.
  - 5 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 2:27pm -
• newAir turbulence: That sudden stomach-drop feeling; why the body reacts before the brain
  During flights, turbulence can create an unexpected sensation in the stomach as the body's balance system reacts instinctively. This quick reaction happens before the brain catches up with the airplane's movement, potentially leading to motion sickness and heightened stress. To ensure safety, it's essential to keep seat belts fastened and adhere to the crew's guidance. Gaining insight into this experience may alleviate fears associated with flying.
  - 5 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 2:15pm -
• newBefore Trump’s Turkey plane swap, how Clinton used decoy to land in Pak 26 years ago
  
  - 6 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 1:26pm -
• newStandoff with Noel Tata: What led to N Chandrasekaran’s exit as Tata Sons chairman
  The 63-year-old Chandrasekaran, who has been associated with the Tata Group for four decades, informed the Tata Sons board on Wednesday that he would not seek another term after his tenure expires on February 20, 2027.
  - 6 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 1:01pm -
• newAmit Shah 'ready to answer any question'; Rahul says 'not interested in lecture'
  Union home minister Amit Shah offered an extended parliamentary discussion on student protests. He proposed sitting in Parliament from today until tomorrow to address concerns. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi rejected the offer, demanding accountability for alleged police actions. Rahul stated the opposition seeks answers, not lectures from the home minister.
  - 6 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 12:48pm -
• newEx-Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer changes how his $8 billion philanthropy works
  Steve and Connie Ballmer are redefining their charitable strategy. The Ballmer Group is set to detach three regional branches, allowing them to operate as independent nonprofits. This adaptation is designed to align funding strategies more closely with the needs of local communities. With over eight billion dollars donated to charity, the Ballmers will shift their emphasis toward national-level initiatives focusing on economic mobility.
  - 7 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 12:25pm -
• newHrithik Roshan backs Pratim D Gupta on India’s star obsession over cinema art
  Filmmaker Pratim D Gupta's Instagram post called India's obsession with stardom over cinema "heartbreaking," citing how Mani Ratnam's Kolkata shoot was overshadowed by Vijay Sethupathi and Sai Pallavi's presence. Hrithik Roshan agreed, calling India's understanding of cinema "superficial." Pratim recently made Ranna Baati; Hrithik was last seen in War 2.
  - 7 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 11:54am -
• new'Sweating profusely': SpiceJet passengers protest faulty AC; video shows chaos inside
  More than a hundred passengers chose to forgo their SpiceJet flight from Delhi to Pune due to a significant issue with the aircraft's air conditioning, which resulted in excessive heat in the cabin. Many of those on board experienced discomfort, with some feeling faint from the heat. The aircraft eventually returned to the bay, and arrangements for a replacement flight were made to depart several hours later.
  - 8 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 11:26am -
• newSundar's Sri Lanka Test availability in doubt, chances of joining team 'very slim'
  Washington Sundar's participation in the second Test is uncertain due to injury concerns. The Indian team management prefers caution after recent player injuries. Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep also face uncertain return timelines from their injuries. Selectors may not name a replacement if Washington Sundar is ruled out. The medical team is carefully assessing player fitness for upcoming tours.
  - 10 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 8:49am -
• newTravis Kelce eyes multi million dollar move amid growing fitness concerns
  Travis Kelce is all set to pull a new move aligned with his new deal with Tommy Hilfiger in the new season as concerns over his fitness grow.
  - 17 hours ago 12 Aug 26, 2:32am -
• Can the govt take control of foreign-funded assets? FCRA Bill explained
  The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, introduced in the Lok Sabha in March, proposes a new framework for managing foreign contributions and assets when an organisation’s registration is cancelled, surrendered or ceases. The government says the changes are intended to address administrative and legal gaps, while critics question the breadth of the proposed powers.
  - 17 days ago 26 Jul 26, 3:46pm -