TOI - Most Recent Stories

• newT20 WC: Has India denied visas to Pak-born US cricketers? The real story
  Speculation arose after US cricketer Ali Khan's social media post suggested visa denials for Pakistan-origin players ahead of the T20 World Cup. Officials clarified that no visas have been rejected; applications for four US players of Pakistani origin are undergoing standard administrative review, a routine process for such cases.
  - 1 hour ago 14 Jan 26, 9:48am -
• newRupee rebounds! Currency rises 11 paise in early trade; reaches 90.12 against US dollar
  The Indian rupee opened weaker on Wednesday, continuing its downward trend against the US dollar. This decline is attributed to rising crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and foreign fund outflows. While global risk aversion and weak domestic markets are pressuring the currency, optimism around a potential India-US trade deal and a possible rate cut may offer support.
  - 1 hour ago 14 Jan 26, 9:44am -
• newIran unrest: Khamenei-led regime to hang 26-year-old Erfan Soltani — who is he?
  Iran is set to execute a 26-year-old man, Erfan Soltani, arrested just last week amid widespread protests. His family claims he received a death sentence within two days without a trial, with execution slated for Wednesday. This case raises alarms as potentially the first execution linked to the current unrest, prompting a strong warning from US President Donald Trump.
  - 2 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 9:31am -
• newStock market today: Nifty50 opens below 25,700; BSE Sensex down over 100 points
  Stock market today: Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, the equity benchmark indices, started Wednesday on a negative note, slipping in trade. While Nifty50 was near 25,650, BSE Sensex was down over 120 points.
  - 2 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 9:18am -
• newKylie Kelce sparks buzz with major announcement and surprise guest
  Kylie Kelce's podcast, Not Gonna Lie, is making a significant mainstream impact with global pop star Demi Lovato headlining the season two premiere. This strategic booking signals the show's evolution from a quiet breakout to a major media player, drawing attention beyond its initial NFL audience and reinforcing its reputation for authentic, unfiltered conversations.
  - 2 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 9:15am -
• new'Even if effort fails…': DKS' cryptic post after Rahul meet fuels CM change buzz
  Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's cryptic social media post after a meeting with Rahul Gandhi has fueled speculation about a leadership change in the state. Despite Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's denial of political discussions, the brief one-on-one interaction between Gandhi and Shivakumar at Mysuru airport has sparked renewed political buzz.
  - 2 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 9:00am -
• new2 held for roaming around at Har Ki Pauri in 'sheikh' attire
  A video has emerged that shows two individuals in traditional garb, who claim to be Dubai residents and YouTube influencers, at the iconic Har Ki Pauri. This development has reignited debates about restricting non-Hindu access to the sacred Ganga ghats. Investigators are delving into the identities and motives of the men involved, and await further actions based on their findings.
  - 2 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 8:45am -
• new'Immediately sever all contact': After US, Israel withdraws from several UN agencies
  Israel is severing ties with several UN agencies and international bodies, citing persistent bias and hostile actions. This decision follows a review prompted by the US withdrawal from similar organizations. The affected bodies include UN Women and the UN Conference on Trade and Development, with specific grievances cited regarding children in conflict and sexual violence allegations.
  - 2 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 8:39am -
• new'Don't give up, stay ready': KL Rahul's message to young cricketers
  Ahead of the second ODI against New Zealand, KL Rahul shared valuable advice with budding cricketers, emphasising patience and perseverance. He urged youngsters to trust the process, continuously work on themselves, and be ready to seize opportunities when they arise. Rahul highlighted that difficult phases are common for all players and stressed the importance of not giving up.
  - 2 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 8:39am -
• newMLB trade rumor: Yankees eye Ryan Weathers for pitching help amid injuries
  The New York Yankees have bolstered their pitching staff by acquiring left-handed pitcher Ryan Weathers from the Miami Marlins. This move addresses depth concerns for the upcoming season. In exchange, the Yankees sent four promising young position players to Miami. Weathers brings team control and potential to the Yankees' rotation.
  - 3 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 8:37am -
• newBudget 2026 for defence: Why capital outlay should be hiked for ‘Atmanirbharta’
  Budget 2026 for defence: According to FICCI, enhancing defence spending is essential with a higher capital outlay within a steadily rising defence budget and a significant boost in funding for DRDO to accelerate modernisation and indigenous technology development.
  - 3 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 8:19am -
• new'Consistent': Why Virat has always stayed ahead of Rohit in ODIs — ex-India batter explains
  Mohammad Kaif attributes Virat Kohli's ODI dominance over Rohit Sharma to his exceptional mindset and ability to convert starts into match-winning scores. Kaif highlighted Kohli's self-awareness and relentless standards, even after a significant knock. Kohli's recent fifty-plus streak in ODIs is also noted, bringing him closer to a new Indian record.
  - 3 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 8:10am -
• newNvidia AI chips in China! US approves sale of H200 chips, with strict limitations
  The US Commerce Department has signaled a policy shift, approving Nvidia to export its H200 AI chips to China under strict conditions. This move allows for case-by-case licensing reviews instead of automatic rejections for these advanced processors, though the most cutting-edge chips remain off-limits.
  - 3 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 7:51am -
• newAjit Pawar rules out merger talks with Sharad Pawar, denies BJP ‘match-fixing’
  Deputy CM Ajit Pawar indicated a potential reunion with his uncle Sharad Pawar, stating he believes in "addition, not subtraction" in politics. He admitted that the bitterness between the two NCP factions has subsided following their alliance for the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad civic polls, making the contest against the BJP tighter.
  - 3 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 7:45am -
• newTop stocks to buy today: Stock recommendations for January 14 - check list
  Stock market recommendations: Mehul Kothari of Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers recommends buying SJVN, JSW Energy, and Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. as top stock picks for today.
  - 3 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 7:45am -

• new‘Struck him repeatedly on head, face with hammer’: Wife, her lover butcher man in UP
  Police in Bareilly have arrested a 30-year-old wife and her 26-year-old lover for the hammer murder of her husband. The couple allegedly conspired to kill the 50-year-old farmer after he discovered their three-year affair and objected to it. The wife held him down while her lover struck him with a hammer.
  - 4 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 7:27am -
• newIran to hang anti-Khamenei protesters: Trump vows 'strong action'; assures 'help on its way'
  US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, vowing strong action if authorities proceed with executions amid widespread protests. Trump stated that the US would respond forcefully if hangings commence, emphasizing that killing thousands of people would have severe consequences for Iran. He also indicated that the US is monitoring the situation closely and will act accordingly.
  - 4 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 6:57am -
• newIs he better now? After TOI report, Kumar Sanu reaches out to Bhopal man who attempted suicide
  Legendary singer Kumar Sanu was moved by a report of a fan's suicide attempts and personally reached out to offer support. After learning the fan was hospitalized in Patna, Sanu spoke with the fan's father, expressing his sadness and praying for recovery. The singer's team also sought updates on the fan's condition.
  - 5 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 6:32am -
• newAnother Hindu man killed in Bangladesh, 8th casualty since December 18
  
  - 5 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 6:30am -
• newRow erupts in Kerala over stop memo on preparatory work for ‘Kumbh Mela’
  Revenue authorities in Malappuram have issued a stop memo for preparatory work on the Bharatapuzha River for the Mahamagha Mahotsavam, citing violations of the Kerala River Protection Act. Organizers, however, claim they had obtained necessary permissions and intend to proceed with the event, alleging attempts to disrupt Hindu religious rites.
  - 5 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 6:24am -
• new'Dhurandhar' scores highest week 6 collections
  Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna's spy thriller 'Dhurandhar' continues its phenomenal run, now surpassing Rs 810 crore nett. The film has achieved the highest Week 6 collections ever for a Hindi movie, adding another record to its impressive theatrical journey. Its sustained momentum is a testament to its widespread appeal.
  - 5 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 6:09am -
• newHappy Makar Sankranti: 75+ heartfelt messages, greetings, wishes, and quotes for 2026
  Makar Sankranti is one of the most prominent festivals of India. This day has religious, spiritual, and cultural significance. A harvest festival, Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India in different names. The sun God is worshipped on this day and is offered newly harvested grains. It is also a day to wish family and friends and people often come together to celebrate.
  - 5 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 6:00am -
• newPune lab confirms Nipah in 2 samples, both nurses critical
  In Bengal, two nurses have tested positive for the Nipah virus and are currently in critical condition. One individual close to them has shown mild fever symptoms. Over 120 potential contacts are now under home isolation, as health officials continue their tracing efforts.
  - 5 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 5:50am -
• new'The Raja Saab' Box Office collection day 5: Prabhas film slows down further
  Prabhas's 'Raja Saab' is facing a significant box office downturn, with collections plummeting after its initial days. Day 5 saw a meager Rs 4.85 crore, bringing the total to Rs 119.45 crore. Low occupancy across languages and overwhelmingly negative audience reviews citing poor storytelling and performances are contributing to the film's struggle, despite its star-studded cast.
  - 6 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 5:35am -
• newIndore contaminated water crisis: A fortnight later, govt admits 15 deaths
  The Madhya Pradesh government has grimly confirmed that a diarrhoea outbreak in Indore has led to 15 tragic deaths linked to pollution of drinking water. Findings from a study by Mahatma Gandhi Medical College doctors have sparked further scrutiny into the circumstances surrounding these cases.
  - 6 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 5:32am -
• newOn govt nudge, quick commerce firms dropping 10-min promise; what experts have to say
  In a bid to prioritize safety for delivery partners, government officials are advocating for quick commerce companies to abandon their '10-minute' delivery claims. Notably, Blinkit and Instamart have already taken a step in this direction, and more companies are expected to follow suit. This initiative seeks to enhance working conditions for gig workers while maintaining flexible delivery timeframes.
  - 6 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 5:12am -
• newPakistan’s embarrassment in BBL: After Rizwan retired out, Ali also errs – Watch
  Pakistan players endured further embarrassment in the Big Bash League as Hasan Ali’s misfield gifted a boundary during Adelaide Strikers’ loss to Melbourne Stars, just a day after Mohammad Rizwan became the first overseas player to be retired out. Tom Curran’s career-best spell then helped the Stars bowl Strikers out for 83 and seal an easy win.
  - 6 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 5:00am -
• newKohli, Rohit discuss '27 ODI WC plans with Gambhir? Batting coach reveals details
  "They definitely make plans. Now that they're playing only one format, they want India to win everywhere when they are there," Kotak said on the eve of India’s second ODI against New Zealand.
  - 6 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 5:00am -
• new'Ready to induct women in infantry if there is societal acceptance': Army chief
  The Indian Army is prepared to integrate women into infantry roles, contingent on societal readiness, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated. He emphasized gender neutrality and uniform standards, noting a sequential induction into combat roles. The Army is also undergoing significant modernization, focusing on drone capabilities, advanced weaponry, and self-reliance in ammunition for future warfare.
  - 7 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 4:31am -
• newAaron Rodgers accused of emotional abuse by ex Danica Patrick amid wife mystery
  Aaron Rodgers' marriage and wife, Brittani, continues to be a mystery even after the two have been reportedly been married for more than half a year. Amid all the mess, Aaron Rodgers' ex, Danica Patrick, has made controversial claims against the NFL veteran about the relationship the two shared for over two years. Aaron Rodgers continues to stay distant from all the drama.
  - 7 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 4:15am -
• newNEET-PG cut-off score now fixed at -40 out of 800
  Government has significantly reduced NEET-PG cut-offs to fill over 9,000 vacant medical postgraduate seats. Percentiles for general, EWS, SC, ST, and OBC candidates have been lowered, some to zero. This move aims to prevent wastage of training capacity amidst a doctor shortage and follows a plea from the Indian Medical Association.
  - 7 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 3:52am -
• newIndia's import of Russian crude down 29% month-on-month in Dec: Report
  
  - 8 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 3:06am -
• newSC moves to ensure 25% free seats for poor in all schools
  Issue Necessary Rules Under RTE, Govt Told
  - 10 hours ago 14 Jan 26, 12:40am -
• newAfter Sabarimala gold theft, Rs 35L ‘ghee scam’ under lens
  The Kerala High Court has ordered a vigilance probe into alleged misappropriation of over Rs 35 lakh from the sale of leftover ghee at Sabarimala. The court directed the vigilance director to form a team and register a crime based on a report highlighting discrepancies in fund remittance from ghee packet sales. A progress report is due within a month.
  - 13 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 10:33pm -
• newExplained: How Elon Musk's Starlink became Iran protesters’ lifeline as internet blackout deepens
  Iran's internet shutdowns during protests are being circumvented by SpaceX's Starlink satellite service. Despite being illegal, terminals enter the country via informal channels, offering a lifeline for communication and information sharing. Authorities attempt to jam signals and locate devices, leading to a constant technological battle, while legal risks for users escalate.
  - 13 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 10:27pm -
• new'Take over your institutions': Trump urges Iranians to revolt; pledges help
  
  - 13 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 10:16pm -
• newZohran Mamdani 'outraged' after Venezuelan-origin staff detained by ICE
  
  - 14 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 9:13pm -
• newBJP slams Siddaramaiah govt for choosing Rahul Gandhi over German Chancellor welcome
  
  - 14 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 9:09pm -
• newSkills for the AI age: UAE AI minister warns workers; ‘Only broad skills will keep you relevant’
  
  - 15 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 7:49pm -
• newCanada double murder: 3 Indians under trial over elderly couple's murder
  
  - 18 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 5:37pm -
• newAmazon's RTO gets stricter: Managers tracking hours; three types of employees under scanner
  Amazon is now closely monitoring office attendance, tracking not just presence but also exact hours spent by corporate employees. This escalation in surveillance, revealed by an internal document, flags 'Low-Time Badgers' and 'Zero Badgers' who don't meet in-office expectations. The move follows a strict five-day return-to-office mandate, with similar tracking systems emerging at tech rivals like Samsung and Dell.
  - 18 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 5:37pm -
• newHappy Makar Sankranti 2026: Top 70+ wishes, messages, greetings and quotes to share
  Makar Sankranti, a solar calendar festival, marks the Sun's northward journey, symbolizing change, warmth, and new beginnings. Celebrated across India with various names, it fosters joy and gratitude. The article offers a collection of wishes, messages, and quotes to share, strengthening bonds and spreading positivity during this auspicious occasion.
  - 18 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 5:35pm -
• new‘Are You Dead?’ app goes viral: Tops China’s app store; Why iPhone users worldwide are spending on it
  A new app, 'Are You Dead?', is gaining immense popularity among solo dwellers in China and India, addressing rising safety concerns. Users check in every two days; failure to do so alerts a pre-selected emergency contact. This paid app, also known as 'Demumu' internationally, offers peace of mind for those living alone.
  - 18 hours ago 13 Jan 26, 5:14pm -
• Erika Kirk faces backlash for attending Peach Bowl alone as fans debate parenting
  Erika Kirk faced online criticism after attending the Peach Bowl in Atlanta without her children on January 10, 2025. Social media users questioned her choices following the death of her husband, Charlie Kirk. While many criticized her parenting, others defended her, saying grief is personal. Erika has not responded to the backlash.
  - 1 day ago 13 Jan 26, 5:40am -
• Justin Rose and Kate Phillips net worth timeline from 2016 to 2026
  Justin Rose and his wife Kate Phillips have built a combined net worth estimated at $50–$60 million by 2026, driven by Rose’s sustained PGA Tour success, endorsements, and long-term investments. Their wealth has grown steadily over a decade, reflecting consistent performance, careful financial planning, and ongoing involvement in business and philanthropy.
  - 1 day ago 13 Jan 26, 2:00am -
• Vanessa Bryant recalls Kobe Bryant’s iconic footwork vs Charlotte Hornets
  Vanessa Bryant continues to honor her late husband, Kobe Bryant, by sharing cherished memories. Recently, she posted a throwback clip of Kobe's incredible 2008 dunk against the Charlotte Hornets, highlighting his 'Mamba Mentality.' She also expressed gratitude on behalf of the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation for the support enabling opportunities for young athletes.
  - 2 days ago 12 Jan 26, 8:59pm -