Ajit Agarkar has informed the BCCI he will not continue as chief selector, prompting the board to begin searching for his successor as his contract ends October 4.
The International Kabaddi Federation is expanding its global reach by nearly doubling its membership to approximately 80 nations. A two-day conclave in Hyderabad will see 35-40 new national bodies from Africa and Europe formally affiliated, aiming to foster the sport's global growth through structured programmes and technical assistance.
Indian MMA fighter Varun Sanyal faced a challenging Asian Games debut, marked by logistical issues and a medical disqualification due to a weight-cutting incident. Despite the setback, Sanyal, an Indian citizen with Singapore PR, shares his journey in MMA, his 'fighting nomad' lifestyle, and his aspirations for Indian fighters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the fintech sector to expand the global reach of India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI), connecting it with local systems in other countries to help the diaspora save on remittance costs.
The Supreme Court has issued a landmark directive against immediate arrests in Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act cases where the accused is a parent or family member living with the child, and a matrimonial dispute exists. The ruling mandates psychological evaluation of the child by experts before police or courts form an opinion to arrest, aiming to prevent the misuse of the law in estranged couple cases.
Led by R Praggnanandhaa on the top board and World champion D Gukesh on the fourth, the Indian men scored an emphatic 3-1 victory over Holland but the Indian eves were shocked by Poland in the fifth round of the 46th chess Olympiad in Samarkand.
Indian-origin golfers Rayhan Thomas and Mahanth Chirravuri successfully made the cut at the Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship. Both players are aiming to improve their standings in the Korn Ferry Finals Tour points race to secure full playing rights for the next season and potentially a PGA Tour card.
171 IIT student deaths by suicide or other unnatural causes have been recorded between January 2006 and September 2026. Of these, 120 were recorded between 2016 and September 2026, compared with 51 in the preceding decade.
Joga Purty and Deepu Mallesh, India's speed climbing representatives, are set to make their Asian Games debut. The athletes, who discovered the sport through different paths, discuss their journeys, the challenges of pursuing a niche sport, and their excitement for the upcoming competition, where India aims for its first climbing medal. They also highlight the need for better support and exposure for the sport in India.
Elena Rybakina, World No. 2, outlines her aggressive strategy to defeat World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the US Open 2026 women's singles final. Rybakina aims to control rallies and prevent Sabalenka from dictating play in their 18th career meeting. Despite battling a foot injury and tough earlier rounds, Rybakina is determined to perform her best against Sabalenka, who is seeking a historic third consecutive US Open title.
The Ministry of Home Affairs informed a Joint Committee of Parliament that the number of active NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act has halved over the last decade, even as foreign funds received by them have significantly increased. Christian associations received the largest share of these funds in 2024-25. The report comes amidst discussions on a contentious FCRA amendment bill aimed at tighter government oversight.
Nearly a month after devastating flash floods in Nepal, search operations are ongoing for approximately 6,000 people who remain unaccounted for. The floods, originating near the Nepal-Tibet border, caused widespread destruction, killing over 1,400 in Nepal and 43 in China, and damaging critical infrastructure. Identification of recovered bodies is a major challenge, often requiring DNA testing due to severe damage.
The Asian Games' mixed martial arts competition features modified rules, including traditional uniforms and shin guards, to make the sport more palatable for potential Olympic inclusion. While intense, this version differs significantly from UFC fights. The sport faces challenges, including rival governing bodies vying for Olympic recognition, but FIMMA hopes the current format will appeal to IOC officials.
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar lauded KEONICS' initiative to provide AI-based KEO computers to rural children, marking the institution's golden jubilee. The KEO computers, developed in Karnataka, aim to bridge the digital divide. Shivakumar also highlighted government efforts to promote IT beyond Bengaluru, enhance industry-oriented skills, and digitise property records, emphasising the state's commitment to technology and skill development.
This article provides a comprehensive schedule of Indian athletes participating in various events at the Asian Games on September 20.
Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has joined the ownership group of Vancouver Anchors, a franchise in the Canada Super 60 league, reuniting with his former teammate Yuvraj Singh. Khan brings his extensive international cricket experience to the league, which features men's and women's competitions and aims to promote global cricket growth.
World junior champion Anahat Singh, now 18, is returning to the Asian Games with significantly higher stakes, as the women's singles gold medal offers direct Olympic qualification. Ranked world number 20, she is a strong medal contender and is embracing the pressure of competing for her country. Anahat faces formidable opponents like Satomi Watanbe and Sivasangari Subramaniam but is focused on refining her game and physical strength to achieve her goals.
International Hockey Federation (FIH) President Tayyab Ikram has commended India's professional approach to hockey, urging other Asian nations to adopt similar strategies to improve their global standing. He highlighted India's journey from past Olympic glory to recent bronze medals, positioning it as a model for development in the sport.
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is actively working on plans to expand Aadhaar's reach globally, particularly to benefit non-resident Indians (NRIs) and overseas citizens of India (OCIs). This initiative aims to enhance interoperability, attract investment, and streamline digital identification processes, with new guidelines for merchants and products like Aadhaar Lite also in development.
88 per cent of individual traders lost money during FY26. Until we recognise gambling dressed up as option buying for what it is, we will keep treating the wrong disease, asserts Harsh Roongta.
Seventeen-year-old table tennis sensation Syndrela Das has been called up to the senior women's side for the Asian Games. Ranked 99th globally, she aims for gold at the event and a rapid ascent into the top 50, attributing her success to rigorous training and a positive approach to pressure.
Trai has brought app-based spam calls under tighter regulations through new A2P call rules.
Former Chief Election Commissioners have voiced strong objections to reported 'illegal' changes in voter registration Form 6 and the centralisation of electoral roll control, raising serious concerns about the integrity of future elections.
US President Donald Trump has extended the USD 100,000 fee on employers for H-1B foreign workers for another year, citing a significant decrease in registrations from large IT outsourcing firms. This move, aimed at protecting American jobs and ensuring highly-skilled workers, also includes a separate proclamation for enhanced scrutiny of H-1B applications, particularly concerning potential layoffs of US workers.
The third season of the World Championship of Legends will be held in the UAE from October 3 to 18, featuring cricketing legends like Yuvraj Singh, Shahid Afridi, Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, and David Warner. This marks the tournament's first venture outside the UK, promising high-profile clashes and rekindled international rivalries across Dubai and Sharjah.
Telecom industry body COAI and the British High Commission signed an MoU to boost cooperation in AI, connectivity, and digital trust, fostering responsible tech innovation. The pact, signed at the CO.AI 2026 event, focused on AI's role in intelligent networks, security, and public services. Discussions highlighted AI's importance in combating fraud, improving network efficiency, and ensuring secure digital services. TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti and Acting British High Commissioner Ben Mellor emphasised the need for balanced governance and international collaboration to ensure secure, inclusive, and responsible digital transformation.
Experts laud the decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move, along with a dedicated fund for small merchants, is seen as crucial for creating a sustainable digital payments ecosystem, incentivising expansion in rural areas, and funding innovation while keeping most transactions free for users.
Seasoned kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat has been named India's male flag-bearer for the Asian Games opening ceremony, replacing shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor. Toor was unable to attend due to not receiving his ceremonial kit in time, a logistical issue stemming from the athletics team's acclimatisation camp near Tokyo.
Industry body Assocham has welcomed the new UPI framework for large-value merchant transactions, effective October 15. This framework introduces a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on person-to-merchant UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000, with a cap of Rs 300 for transactions over Rs 75,000. The move aims to enhance UPI sustainability, support innovation, and mitigate fraud, while protecting small merchants and ensuring most everyday transactions remain free.
Doctors in Delhi have pioneered a new knee replacement surgery combining an active robotic system with a non-metallic, ceramic implant. This world-first procedure, performed at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, aims to enhance precision and improve outcomes compared to conventional metal implants, potentially revolutionising future joint replacement surgeries.
Bengaluru-based deep-tech company RayVector Technologies is demonstrating its advanced multi-sensor module and wafer-handling technology at SEMICON India. This innovative solution uses sensing, imaging, and AI to detect minute irregularities in semiconductor wafers, helping manufacturers prevent costly production losses. The technology is already being utilised by major global players like Samsung, Intel, and TSMC, highlighting India's growing contribution to the global semiconductor ecosystem.
Petrol pump dealers seek exemption from the proposed 5 UPI charge on fuel purchases above 2,000, citing pressure on their margins.
From Filhaal to Daayra, we look at Meghna Gulzar's filmmaking journey, including the highs of Talvar and Raazi and the films that fell short.
Pharma major Lupin is significantly increasing its focus on biosimilars, aiming for a turnover of nearly $500 million from this segment over the next five years, driven by new product launches and expanded presence in key global markets like the US, Europe, and Japan.
Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu stated that no decision has been made regarding allowing Delhi and Mumbai airport operators to own and run airlines, as the government is carefully considering the implications of relaxing cross-ownership restrictions, including potential conflicts of interest and the need for more airlines.
England's white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum has encouraged newly-appointed mentor Kevin Pietersen to actively challenge the team's approach and suggest improvements, leveraging his "incredible pedigree as a player."
India experienced a mixed day at the Asian Games, with skeet shooters and rowers adding to the medal tally, and wushu player Roshibina Devi securing a silver. While kabaddi and hockey teams continued their winning streaks, boxing, gymnastics, and fencing saw disappointments. The overall medal count reached 15, with only one gold so far.
Indian Olympic Association president P T Usha has voiced strong objections to the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games organisers' decision to forgo a conventional Athletes Village, opting instead for dispersed accommodation including a cruise ship. Usha, a former Asian Games athlete, highlighted the importance of a centralised village for athlete interaction and expressed concerns about logistical challenges and venue distances. She believes the traditional village system will endure despite this experiment and shared her excitement for India's performance and future hosting ambitions.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is set to meet Hockey India League (HIL) franchise owners and federation officials to address the league's financial and administrative crisis. The HIL is struggling with unpaid player dues, rising costs, and franchise withdrawals, prompting the ministry to seek solutions for its survival, especially given its importance for Indian hockey development.
India's net direct tax collection has surged by 13 per cent to over Rs 12.12 lakh crore by September 17 in the current fiscal year, driven by a significant increase in advance tax payments from corporates, according to CBDT data.
