Asian Games 2026: Thought of booking an Olympic spot kept replaying in my head, says squash star Anahat Singh on comeback win

A Punjab Police inspector named Baldev Singh was arrested in Ferozepur after a police checkpoint revealed contraband. Over 3 kg of heroin and multiple firearms, including six pistols and live ammunition, were found in his vehicle. Authorities have initiated legal action under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act as well as the Arms Act. Police are investigating potential involvement of other individuals in the incident.

The rise in COVID-19 cases is notably observed in the Southern and Western regions of the United States. Wastewater analysis indicates a concerning spike in viral activity, which suggests increased community transmission. Reports show infections are on the rise in 27 states, while 13 states experience a decline. With overlapping symptoms between COVID-19 and influenza, accurate diagnosis poses a challenge for health officials.

Rohit Rajpal indicated he might resign as India's Davis Cup captain, citing the need for fresh perspectives. He expressed readiness to share his insights for a smoother transition for his successor. Rajpal emphasized the importance of understanding player dynamics and fostering new talent for the team's future. He has also announced his candidacy for the AITA presidency to focus on player-centric development.

RJD workers staged a protest at Ranchi's Albert Ekka Chowk, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The protest arose from accusations of unfair electoral advantages given to BJP through manipulated electoral rolls. RJD leaders claimed that around 65 lakh names in Bihar and 27 lakh names in Bengal were removed from voter rolls.

Kleyton Zacarioto, a butcher, expresses frustration with high food prices impacting household budgets ahead of elections. Incumbent President Lula highlights improving economic indicators like falling unemployment amidst voter dissatisfaction. Senator Flavio Bolsonaro argues that the economy has worsened, stating that families are financially strained. Lula's recent measures to boost disposable income have had little effect on voter sentiment.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant affirmed the judiciary's commitment to safeguarding students' rights to peaceful protests. He addressed police responses to student demonstrations during an event at Chanakya National Law University. Additionally, he discussed the importance of personal dignity in judicial collegium decisions.

Nirmala Sitharaman, the Union Finance Minister, radiated confidence in India's economic future, forecasting a growth rate surpassing 10 percent. She stressed the necessity of embracing technology and innovation in all sectors, celebrating the impact of startups since 2015. Furthermore, she emphasized technology's ability to revolutionize agriculture for increased productivity. The minister called upon citizens to nurture a constructive approach in pursuit of these vital economic objectives.

U.S. Weather Update: Concerts were canceled, along with dozens of flights going into airports in Boston, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard on Friday and Saturday. Several airlines were offering to waive some change or cancellation fees for some East Coast flights through the weekend.

Recent discussions at the United Nations General Assembly focused on the effectiveness of multilateral governance. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concerns that the current international system fails to address major conflicts effectively. He emphasized that the United States will prioritize its national interests over the international order. Comments from UN officials stressed the need for member states to recommit to diplomacy and international law.

Since the inclusion of men's kabaddi in the Asian Games in 1990, India have won the gold medal in all editions except the 2018 one.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian revealed a plan to reopen the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. This plan requires the United States to meet specific conditions, including lifting sanctions on Iranian oil. A six-member team in Iran has been granted the authority to make decisions regarding this initiative. The proposal includes the release of frozen Iranian assets worth around $12 billion.