Yuvraj Singh, Robin Uthappa Summoned by ED in Betting App Case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned former international cricketers Yuvraj Singh and Robin Uthappa, along with actor Sonu Sood, for questioning in a money laundering case. The investigation is linked to the illegal online betting platform 1xBet, which is alleged to have duped investors of crores. The summons follow the recent questioning of other celebrities, including Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan, as the federal agency widens its probe into the nexus between entertainment figures and online betting operations.
Apollo Tyres Becomes Indian Cricket Team's New Lead Sponsor in ₹579 Crore Deal
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has signed Apollo Tyres as the new lead sponsor for the national cricket team. The deal, valued at ₹579 crore, will run for two and a half years until March 2028. Apollo Tyres replaces the online gaming platform Dream11, whose contract was impacted by new government regulations on real money gaming. The tyre brand's logo will now feature on the jerseys of both the men's and women's teams.
Robert Redford, Oscar-Winning Actor and Sundance Founder, Dies at 89
Robert Redford, the iconic Hollywood actor, Oscar-winning director, and founder of the Sundance Institute, has died at the age of 89. Known for his roles in classics like "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," "The Sting," and "All the President's Men," Redford was a dominant force in cinema for decades. Beyond his on-screen success, he became a champion for independent filmmakers, establishing the Sundance Film Festival as a premier global platform for new voices.
Earth's Ozone Layer Is Healing, UN Report Confirms
A new UN report confirms that Earth's protective ozone layer is steadily healing and is on track to recover to 1980 levels by mid-century. The World Meteorological Organization credits this significant environmental success to the 1987 Montreal Protocol, an international treaty that successfully phased out the production of ozone-depleting chemicals. The recovery is hailed as a powerful example of how concerted global action, guided by science, can effectively address major planetary crises like climate change.
Aadhaar Authentication Mandatory for Initial Rush-Hour Train Bookings
Starting October 1, Indian Railways will require Aadhaar authentication for users booking reserved train tickets on the IRCTC website and app during the first 15 minutes of the reservation window opening. The move is designed to curb the misuse of the system by touts and automated scripts, ensuring that genuine passengers have a better chance of securing tickets during peak demand. The rule applies only to online bookings, with no changes to procedures at physical counters.
Government Launches ₹36,000 Crore in Bihar Development Projects
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a series of development projects in Bihar worth approximately ₹36,000 crore. The initiatives, unveiled in Purnea, include the foundation stone for a massive ₹25,000 crore thermal power plant in Bhagalpur, new rail lines to improve connectivity in the northeastern part of the state, and a new terminal building at Purnea airport. These projects aim to significantly boost Bihar's infrastructure, energy production, and transportation networks, fostering regional economic growth.
US and China Reach Deal to Avert TikTok Ban
The United States and China have reached a framework agreement that will allow the social media app TikTok to continue its operations in the U.S., averting a threatened nationwide ban. The deal was announced by President Donald Trump following two days of high-level trade discussions in Madrid. While the commercial terms were not disclosed, the agreement marks a significant de-escalation in the tech and trade conflict between the two countries, resolving a contentious issue ahead of a looming divestment deadline.
Top Maoist Commander with ₹1 Crore Bounty Killed in Jharkhand
Security forces in Jharkhand's Hazaribag district killed three senior Maoists in a gunfight, including Central Committee member Sahdev Soren, who carried a bounty of ₹1 crore. The encounter took place in the Pantitri forest early Monday morning. The other two slain commanders were Raghunath Hembram and Birsen Ganjhu, carrying rewards of ₹25 lakh and ₹10 lakh, respectively. This operation is being hailed as a major success in India's anti-Maoist efforts, neutralizing a key figure in the banned CPI (Maoist) organization.
Supreme Court Declines to Stay Controversial Waqf Amendment Act
The Supreme Court has refused to grant a complete stay on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which has faced multiple legal challenges. A bench headed by the Chief Justice observed that laws passed by the legislature carry a presumption of constitutionality, and a stay can only be granted in the 'rarest of rare cases.' The court did, however, stay specific provisions, including one limiting the number of non-Muslim members on waqf boards, allowing the broader law to remain in effect.
SEBI Greenlights IPOs for Six Firms, Including Hero Motors and Pine Labs
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has approved Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) for six companies, signaling continued buoyancy in the primary market. The approved firms include Hero Motors, Canara Robeco Asset Management, and fintech major Pine Labs. Together, these companies are expected to raise at least ₹9,000 crore. The funds will be utilized for business expansion, debt repayment, and to provide exit opportunities for existing investors, reflecting strong corporate confidence and investor appetite.
Pakistan Demands Referee's Removal After India's Handshake Snub at Asia Cup
Political tensions have erupted at the Asia Cup after Indian cricketers refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts following India's victory. Citing a recent terror attack, the Indian team's gesture prompted a strong official protest from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The PCB has formally complained to the ICC, alleging a violation of the spirit of cricket and demanding the immediate removal of match referee Andy Pycroft from the tournament, escalating the diplomatic fallout from the on-field incident.
Government Simplifies GST, Merges Slabs to Boost Economy
The Union government has announced major reforms to the Goods and Services Tax (GST), simplifying the structure into two main slabs of 5% and 18%. According to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the move will significantly reduce the tax burden on citizens and is expected to lower prices of essential goods. The reform, effective September 22, aims to spur consumption and boost economic activity ahead of the festive season. Items previously taxed at 12% have largely been moved to the 5% bracket.
Aftermath of US Activist Charlie Kirk's Assassination Sparks Political Fallout
Investigations continue into the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah, with a 22-year-old suspect arrested. The assassination has triggered intense debate over political civility, leading to firings and suspensions for individuals making inflammatory online comments. Authorities are probing the suspect's motive, noting ammunition engraved with anti-fascist messages. Kirk's organization, Turning Point USA, is planning a memorial, while his widow has vowed to continue his work, highlighting the deep political divisions in the US.
US Commerce Secretary Warns India Over High Tariffs, Threatens Action
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has issued a stern warning to India, criticizing its high tariffs and lack of market access for American goods, particularly agricultural products like corn. Lutnick stated that the trade relationship is "one way" and asserted that New Delhi must lower its tariffs or face a "tough time" doing business with the U.S. The comments signal escalating trade tensions between the two nations, with the Trump administration threatening reciprocal tariffs to address what it calls an unfair dynamic.
Defence Ministry Revises Procurement Rules to Boost Domestic Industry
The Ministry of Defence has approved a new Defence Procurement Manual aimed at bolstering self-reliance ('aatmanirbharta') in the sector. The revised rules will expedite the procurement of ammunition, spares, and other supplies for the armed forces, with a budget of ₹1,00,000 crore. Key changes include removing the need for a 'no objection certificate' from defence PSUs for open bidding, allowing private firms to compete for contracts previously dominated by public sector companies, and providing technical support to new domestic manufacturers.