TOI - Most Recent Stories

• newTrump eyes millions from personal political funds for GOP amid midterm fears: Report
  President Trump has reportedly greenlit substantial funding from his PAC to bolster Republican candidates ahead of the upcoming midterms. He is ramping up his campaign appearances, aiming to energize his dedicated base amid challenges to maintain Congressional control. This strategic push also seeks to address growing unease surrounding issues like the Iran conflict and rising gas prices.
  - 2 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 11:16pm -
• new'I now know I was wrong': Hikaru on chaotic EWC match against Firouzja
  Hikaru Nakamura finished third at the 2026 Esports World Cup after Alireza Firouzja forfeited their match following technical issues and multiple disconnections. Initially blaming chess.com, Nakamura later learned the problems were caused by the EWC. He apologised for his comments, admitted he jumped to conclusions, and earned $145,000 plus valuable Club Championship points for Falcons Esports.
  - 2 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 10:57pm -
• newIndonesia rocked by 3 major quakes and over 230 aftershocks in 24 hours
  
  - 2 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 10:55pm -
• new'How was leak overlooked?' Cong targets U'khand govt over tunnel tragedy, seeks probe
  
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• newFlashback: What happened when India last hosted BWF World Championships
  New Delhi is set to welcome the prestigious 2026 Badminton World Championships after a long hiatus of seventeen years. The last event in 2009 in Hyderabad witnessed China's commanding presence, highlighted by Lin Dan's monumental victory. With the stakes higher than ever, India prepares to write a new chapter in this thrilling sport, reflecting the dramatic shifts in international badminton.
  - 2 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 10:50pm -
• newPadikkal or Sudharsan? Manjrekar makes No. 3 call: 'He looks formidable'
  On the first day in Galle, Devdutt Padikkal shone brightly, scoring an unbeaten 131 runs. His technique against Sri Lanka's spinners garnered high praise from Sanjay Manjrekar, who noted Padikkal's impressive back-foot play and attacking style. This stellar performance strengthens his candidacy for the number three batting slot and marks a notable milestone in the young Indian cricketer's career.
  - 2 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 10:36pm -
• newE20 mileage row: Govt says fuel alone can't be blamed; cites driving & maintenance
  The government clarifies that the introduction of E20 petrol does not hinder vehicle mileage, emphasizing that actual fuel efficiency hinges on how drivers operate their vehicles and maintain them. Comprehensive assessments confirmed that E20 fuel is both durable and compatible with engines. Additionally, no significant contamination issues were discovered in E20 petrol samples by oil companies, instilling confidence in its performance and vehicle compatibility.
  - 2 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 10:36pm -
• newAmerica's civil war over USS Lincoln: 'Grow a pair' vs 'Bring them home'
  
  - 3 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 9:47pm -
• new'I sincerely apologise': BCI chief to law students after row over NALSAR diktat
  In a heartfelt gesture, Bar Council of India chairman Manan Kumar Mishra issued an apology to law students, expressing regret if his statements or a letter had caused any distress. This move came after a significant uproar involving a guest invitation for NALSAR University’s convocation. Initially, the Council had intervened but later retracted its guidance, with the Supreme Court subsequently questioning the Bar Council’s role in the matter.
  - 4 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 9:11pm -
• newUS pulls last aircraft carrier out of Pacific amid Iran war, opens space for China
  
  - 4 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 8:56pm -
• new‘The way he has prepared’: India coach explains key to Padikkal’s maiden century
  Devdutt Padikkal scored an unbeaten 131 on his maiden international century. His improved back-foot game was credited by batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. Padikkal adapted well to Sri Lanka's spin-heavy bowling attack. KL Rahul also contributed significantly before retiring hurt from the match. Sri Lanka's coach praised both Indian batters for their performances.
  - 4 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 8:29pm -
• newUS housing squeeze: Over 50% of families burdened by rent; here's how much tenants pay
  Over 50% of renter families in America struggle with exorbitant housing costs, largely due to a chronic shortage of available homes that maintains high rental prices nationwide. Lower-income families bear the brunt of these escalating expenses, as zoning limitations and regulatory challenges obstruct new construction initiatives. Experts anticipate that upcoming housing legislation could eventually influence market pricing dynamics.
  - 5 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 8:01pm -
• new'Sharma ji ka beta toh': Why some Indian careers are judged before they are chosen
  
  - 5 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 7:28pm -
• newBWF World C'ships: Beyond smashes, drops, the conditions could decide the winner
  At the BWF World Championships in Delhi, starting from Monday, the biggest challenge may not come from the opponent across the net. Drafts, heat and humidity could prove decisive as the world's best adapt to tricky conditions.
  - 6 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 7:23pm -
• newOpenAI's S7 data centre drops plan to cool it with recycled water after permit snags
  OpenAI has decided to discontinue its plans for implementing recycled water cooling at its Sydney data center due to regulatory hurdles that hindered the necessary pipeline's construction. Consequently, the facility will adopt a more energy-intensive closed-loop liquid cooling system. This transition comes amidst Sydney's growing demand for data centers. Notably, the S7 data center is projected to generate thousands of jobs during its construction phase.
  - 6 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 7:09pm -

• newHarmanpreet Singh's brace powers India to 3-1 win over Wales in World Cup opener
  India began their FIH Hockey World Cup campaign with a strong 3-1 victory over Wales. Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored two goals, leading the team's dominant performance. Sanjay opened the scoring for India in the eighth minute of the match. Wales managed to pull one goal back late in the game. India secured three points from their opening Pool D fixture.
  - 6 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 6:53pm -
• newKL Rahul injury scare? India coach gives big update after batter retires hurt
  KL Rahul is “fine now” after retiring hurt with cramps during India’s Test against Sri Lanka, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said. Rahul scored 77 off 162 balls and shared a 150-run stand with Devdutt Padikkal. Padikkal hit an unbeaten 131 on his Test comeback, while India finished day one strongly at 288 for two.
  - 6 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 6:50pm -
• newShooting at US University leaves 5 injured, 1 critical; campus lockdown lifted
  Virginia State University experienced a lockdown early Saturday following a shooting incident. Multiple suspects were involved, and several individuals sustained injuries near the Quad Annexes. Campus police confirmed that victims were transported to local hospitals for necessary medical treatment. Both university and county police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting event. Authorities have not yet released specific details regarding the suspects or the injured…
  - 6 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 6:43pm -
• newGurgaon’s annual road-repair cycle: 10 ways to fix the problem, not just the potholes
  Gurgaon consistently suffers from road damage and waterlogging following significant monsoon rains. This ongoing issue highlights persistent drainage and construction flaws that have yet to be resolved. Despite ongoing investments in repairs, the city fails to tackle the fundamental causes of its infrastructure issues. Roads function within an interdependent network where adequate drainage is essential.
  - 6 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 6:39pm -
• newIndian-American CEO who sacked 900 over Zoom gets fired himself
  Indian-American entrepreneur Vishal Garg has been ousted as Better Home & Finance CEO. The company cited concerns about his judgment and credibility after significant losses. Garg's removal follows his controversial 2021 mass layoff of 900 employees. He is now seeking to regain his position and is offering to work for one dollar annually. Better's market value has significantly decreased since its pandemic-era peak.
  - 6 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 6:38pm -
• newDevdutt Padikkal joins Virat Kohli in elite club after historic ton vs Sri Lanka
  On Independence Day, Devdutt Padikkal made history by becoming the second Indian and the first to score an international Test century on August 15. His remarkable innings had him finishing Day 1 undefeated at 131 runs, solidifying his place at number three in the batting order. This impressive achievement marks the end of India's long wait for a Test century from that position.
  - 6 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 6:28pm -
• newA ton of class! Devdutt Padikkal makes the long wait count
  Devdutt Padikkal last played a Test for India during the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. After waiting 632 days, the left-hander seized his opportunity. Karnataka captaincy, role clarity and work on his game against spin reaped rewards as he put India in a dominant position with his maiden ton and a 150-run stand with his statemate and coffee partner KL Rahul on the opening day of the first Test in Galle.
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 6:20pm -
• new'Remove bulletproof glass or I wont speak': PM told officers ahead of 2014 I-Day
  Former defence secretary RK Mathur has recalled how Prime Minister Narendra Modi insisted on removing the bulletproof glass barrier from the Red Fort before delivering his first Independence Day address as Prime Minister in 2014. Speaking about the episode, Mathur said he and the then Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) had briefed Modi about the security arrangements ahead of August 15.
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 6:03pm -
• newUkraine offers Black Sea shipping truce; Russia yet to respond : Report
  
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 6:01pm -
• newKhabib Nurmagomedov sends special message to Islam Makhachev ahead of UFC 330
  Khabib Nurmagomedov has praised Islam Makhachev's dedicated journey ahead of his significant welterweight title defense. Makhachev will face Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in Philadelphia this Saturday. While many expect Makhachev to win, Nurmagomedov respects Garry's fighting capabilities. Makhachev aims to extend his impressive winning streak to seventeen victories. Garry, an underdog, seeks to build his own significant fighting legacy.
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 5:56pm -
• newSmartphone to be locked for missed EMI? RBI’s new rules explained
  The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has laid out some guidelines for lenders on recovery of loans, and whether they can block or lock the device that has been purchased via EMI financing. This new framework will come into effect from January 1, 2027.
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 5:50pm -
• new'Unfortunate, irresponsible': J&K CM's remarks on Article 370 & PoK draw BJP fire
  
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 5:46pm -
• newTN BJP chief takes personal dig at CM Vijay over ‘father’s missing’ remark
  Ministers and TVK leaders condemned Nagenthran’s remarks, dubbing them “uncivilised.”
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 5:45pm -
• newUSS Abraham Lincoln to return home amid rising scrutiny over sailor welfare
  After an extended deployment, the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier is making its way home. While Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao minimized reports of sailor difficulties and supply deficiencies, the Navy contends that allegations regarding a mental health crisis aboard are overstated. This lengthy deployment highlights the pressures faced by the US Navy's carrier fleet, with the USS George Washington set to take over its operations in the Middle East.
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 5:35pm -
• newPatrick Mahomes, Brittany Mahomes' $5 million act builds lasting Texas legacy
  Patrick and Brittany Mahomes' recent $5 million donation to Texas Tech marks a transformative moment for the university's football facilities. This substantial amount amplifies the fundraising efforts and ensures naming rights for prominent sections of the new complex. With Patrick's rich history at Texas Tech, their generosity underscores a lasting commitment to elevating the school's athletic programs to new heights.
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 5:30pm -
• newFSSAI revokes liquor prohibition: Regulator withdraws 11-brand ban in Tamil Nadu
  While FSSAI's U-turn raised eyebrows, officials said that the company had appealed against the prohibition order promising compliance, after which the prohibition was revoked and instead an improvement notice was issued.
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 5:29pm -
• newWATCH: Govinda reacts to Sunita Ahuja’s remarks
  Govinda has made a public plea for his wife, Sunita Ahuja, to cease her use of foul language, notably phrases referencing mothers and sisters. Concerned about the effects of such behavior on impressionable youth, the actor highlighted the responsibilities of public figures. Sunita's frank comments about their life together have also caught the public's attention, igniting lively discussions among supporters.
  - 7 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 5:25pm -
• newSteve Smith creates history, equals Joe Root's world record in 124 Tests
  In a thrilling display of skill, Steve Smith has matched Joe Root's remarkable world record for non-wicketkeeper Test catches, reaching 218 during the first Test against Bangladesh. Smith's achievement, accomplished with three catches at second slip, showcases his talent as he reaches this landmark in far fewer matches than Root. This puts Smith at the pinnacle of the all-time catching leaderboard.
  - 8 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 4:56pm -
• newStrong tremor rocks Indonesia hours after 7.7 magnitude quake claims at least 38 lives
  
  - 8 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 4:55pm -
• newCauvery row: Water released from KRS? BJP claim puts Karnataka govt on spot
  The release of Cauvery water from Karnataka to Tamil Nadu has sparked debates, particularly after a BJP claim that water was released late at night from KRS. This event holds substantial implications for farmers and political groups in Mandya. Karnataka is set to appeal the water release directive in the Supreme Court, with officials proposing that a limited release could indicate compliance as they navigate the legal battle.
  - 8 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 4:52pm -
• new7.7 magnitude Indonesia quake: 38 killed, buildings collapse; 5 visuals of devastation
  A significant earthquake registering 7.7 on the Richter scale rocked eastern Indonesia early Saturday, claiming the lives of at least thirty-eight individuals and leading to the destruction of various structures. Ongoing rescue missions are striving to aid the affected population, while landslides and widespread power failures hinder relief efforts in some areas. Although a tsunami alert was briefly raised, it was later cancelled after confirming that sea conditions were stable.
  - 8 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 4:26pm -
• newMidnight wasn't the end: What happened in first few hours of Independent India
  India's liberation from British rule was celebrated at midnight on August 15, 1947, as Jawaharlal Nehru captivated everyone with his famed 'Tryst with Destiny' speech. Following this historic moment, the newly formed government not only celebrated freedom but also faced daunting challenges related to governance and nation-building, with Lord Mountbatten taking charge as the first Governor-General during a time marked by the chaos of Partition.
  - 9 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 3:50pm -
• newChandigarh police use tear gas to stop Qaumi Insaaf morcha march towards guv's house
  Amid escalating tensions, law enforcement deployed tear gas and water cannons to scatter protesters intending to reach the Governor's residence. Clad in solidarity, attendees attempted to breach police barricades while advocating for the release of Sikh prisoners. The march, led by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha, found support from multiple Sikh organizations, showcasing the strength of their campaign for the freedom of 'Bandi Singhs' at the Chandigarh-Mohali borders.
  - 9 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 3:35pm -
• new100GW of nuclear power by 2047: Inside PM Modi's energy self-reliance plan
  
  - 10 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 3:07pm -
• newBJP says Sonia Gandhi tried to stop Vande Mataram at I-Day event; Cong hits back
  
  - 11 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 2:11pm -
• newWith nearly 40 mentions, 'Mere pyare deshwasiyon' dominated PM Modi's I-Day speech
  
  - 11 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 1:39pm -
• newChina installs 15,927 mirrors at world’s highest solar thermal plant
  China has proudly completed the construction of the world's tallest solar thermal power plant at an impressive altitude of over 15,000 feet. Known as the Tushuo facility, this 100 MW powerhouse utilizes mirrors to effectively concentrate solar energy onto molten salts. The resulting stored heat will generate electricity even after sunset, ultimately supplying power to approximately 50,000 households each year once connected to the grid.
  - 12 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 12:54pm -
• newAI skills, free coaching, sports & jobs: PM Modi's I-Day speech for Gen Z
  
  - 14 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 10:39am -
• newInvasive carp make up 90% of Mississippi River fish die-off
  Hundreds of dead fish have washed up along the Mississippi River in Missouri and Illinois, but wildlife officials say the die-off may benefit the ecosystem. About 90% of the fish found at one Missouri site were invasive silver and bighead carp. Warm temperatures, low water levels and reduced oxygen appear to have caused the deaths.
  - 21 hours ago 15 Aug 26, 4:11am -
• $70 million sale: How AI boom is pushing Silicon Valley luxury housing to new heights
  A stunning estate in Silicon Valley has shattered records with its sale at an astonishing seventy million dollars, purchased by a visionary in the AI sector. This transaction not only marks the highest price for a home in Hillsborough but also underscores the profound impact of tech wealth on the area's luxury real estate market.
  - 1 day ago 14 Aug 26, 11:02pm -
• 80 years on, still enemy No. 1: What Indians and Pakistanis think of each other
  A recent survey by Pew highlights that Indians and Pakistanis regard each other as their principal geopolitical adversaries. Unfavorable opinions dominate across the border, with India marking Pakistan as the major threat while Pakistan responds in kind. There is a notable distrust regarding the other’s dedication to peaceful relations, amplified by contrasting global alliances influencing each country’s strategic outlook.
  - 1 day ago 14 Aug 26, 7:53pm -
• MacKenzie Scott helped abolish $40B in medical debt; how mechanics work
  MacKenzie Scott has pioneered large-scale medical debt relief through significant donations. Her gifts enabled the abolition of over forty billion dollars in medical debt. This initiative has provided relief to millions of families across all fifty states. Other billionaires have been inspired by this effective philanthropic model. However, policy reform remains stalled, highlighting the model's limitations.
  - 1 day ago 14 Aug 26, 5:17pm -
• Zohran Mamdani’s ‘common sense regulation’ may push Amazon to move NYC deliveries
  In New York City, Mayor Zohran Mamdani is advocating for a bill that mandates direct employment for delivery drivers. Amazon has raised concerns that this legislation could push its delivery services outside the city limits. Critics point out that the bill might lead to a sharp increase in delivery costs for residents. Additionally, opponents warn that the legislation could jeopardize countless delivery jobs and adversely affect local businesses.
  - 1 day ago 14 Aug 26, 4:13pm -