C A Varadha Raju

US President Trump and Israeli PM Netanyahu clashed over Iran diplomacy, with Trump favoring a deal and Netanyahu pushing for military action. Mediators from Qatar, Pakistan, and others are working on a revised proposal, but Trump warns the window for talks is closing, while Israel remains on high alert.

Commercial vehicle drivers in Delhi-NCR launched a three-day strike demanding fare hikes due to soaring fuel costs. Unions cite financial struggles, urging immediate government action on taxi and auto fares. However, several transport associations have distanced themselves, vowing to continue services and emphasizing national interest amidst global price challenges.

Former Tata Sons vice chairman argues an IPO can undermine the company’s special role in the group, and may not unlock much value

Falta, which falls within Abhishek Banerjee’s bastion of Diamond Harbour, reflected the intense on-ground political heat during the West Bengal Assembly polls. Apart from authorities finding attempts to tamper with footage captured by web cameras installed at several polling stations, allegations of EVM manipulation were reported at a Falta booth, eventually prompting the Election Commission to order repolling.

As the ODI World Cup approaches, concerns are rising regarding Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya's physical condition. Despite their inclusion in the Afghanistan series, the BCCI is wary of their effectiveness in the 50-over game. The selectors are urgently seeking information on Rohit's overall fitness and Hardik's bowling readiness, emphasizing the necessity for backup opening batsmen.

India has strongly criticized Pakistan at the UN Security Council, accusing it of a long record of violence against civilians and citing recent incidents in Afghanistan linked to Pakistani military action. India's envoy highlighted UNAMA findings of civilian casualties due to cross-border violence and airstrikes, including an attack on a hospital during Ramadan.

Split medical exam in two parts, like JEE. NTA conducts the first nationwide screening. Those who qualify, take a second test in their home state. Each state will set their own questions. Paper-leakers will be outplayed

Tech giants like Meta, Cisco, and Intuit are implementing significant layoffs, sparking widespread debate about AI's impact on jobs. While some predict mass unemployment, billionaire Mark Cuban argues AI will transform, not eliminate, entry-level roles. He believes the high cost of AI implementation and human decision-making capabilities will ensure continued employment opportunities.

With playoffs in sight, RR, PBKS, KKR, DC, and CSK are locked in a fierce battle for the remaining spot. RR need a win, while PBKS, KKR, DC, and CSK rely on a complex web of results and their own performances. Only mathematically alive, these teams are fighting for every advantage.