Union power minister Manohar Lal

NEW DELHI: Flagging the widespread misconceptions about smart electricity meters among consumers, Union power minister Manohar Lal on Sunday urged power distribution companies to run a coordinated campaign to counter misinformation.“Farmers plan to hold a nationwide demonstration on Monday, demanding that the clause related to smart meters in the draft Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, be scrapped. They are not aware what smart meters are or what impact they will have, yet believe they are harmful. Moreover, they don’t even have to pay the electricity bills because the state governments give the subsidy,” Lal said. He added that both the govt and discoms need to actively step in and explain the facts.Farmers held protests against the bill by blocking railway tracks across 19 districts of Punjab on Friday.Drawing a parallel with the initial resistance to electronic meters, Lal said only a fraction of consumers today understand the benefits of smart meters, making large-scale awareness and training essential to prevent fear and confusion from spreading.As per the government, the draft Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aims to transform the existing market structure by rationalising cross-subsidy, promoting cost-reflective tariffs, and enabling direct procurement of power by industrial users. It seeks to dismantle longstanding barriers to India’s manufacturing competitiveness, making industrial power more affordable, reliable and responsive to market demands, while at the same time protecting subsidised tariffs for farmers and other eligible consumers. The bill is likely to be brought to Parliament in the ongoing winter session.Installation of smart metres is part of the Centre’s revamped distribution sector scheme, which aims to modernise the power distribution infrastructure, reduce commercial losses and improve billing efficiency. Of a total target of 25 crore, nearly 4.8 crore prepaid smart meters have been installed across the country so far.The minister was speaking at the closing session of a national conference on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the power distribution sector, organised by the Union ministry of power at Bharat Mandapam. The two-day conference showcased smart meter data analytics, integrated IT/OT systems and smart home automation use cases aimed at improving operational efficiency and consumer satisfaction across discoms.Touching on the growing influence of AI across sectors, Lal expressed a mix of optimism and caution. “Innovation brings happiness, but AI also creates doubts. We should not let our natural thinking power decline,” he said. While noting that India’s power sector has made remarkable progress over the past century, he stressed the need to keep moving forward with scientific thinking, efficiency and public awareness. “We must keep moving forward, resolving the challenges that come in the way,” he added.Lal also underlined India’s progress toward the target of 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030, but cautioned that fossil fuels cannot be phased out abruptly. Coal, he said, will continue to play a role in power generation until renewable sources become fully stable.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) on Sunday dismissed reports suggesting it had asked lenders to halt financing for renewable energy projects, saying no such advisory has been issued to financial institutions, PTI reported.In a statement, the ministry said it has not directed banks or other lenders to stop extending loans to renewable power projects or to renewable energy equipment manufacturing facilities. “It is hereby clarified that MNRE has not issued any advisory to financial institutions for stopping lending to either renewable energy power projects or to renewable energy equipment manufacturing facilities,” it said.The clarification comes amid media reports claiming that the ministry had cautioned lenders against fresh financing due to concerns around overcapacity in the sector.MNRE said it has only shared information on the current status of domestic manufacturing capacity in the solar photovoltaic (PV) segment with the Department of Financial Services and non-banking financial companies such as PFC, REC and IREDA. This, it said, is intended to help financial institutions take a calibrated and well-informed view while evaluating proposals for financing solar PV manufacturing facilities.The ministry reiterated that the government remains committed to making India self-reliant in solar PV manufacturing and positioning the country as a significant player in the global value chain. This push is being supported through initiatives such as the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for high-efficiency solar PV modules and measures aimed at providing a level-playing field for domestic manufacturers.These interventions have led to a sharp expansion in solar module manufacturing capacity, which has risen from 2.3 GW in 2014 to around 122 GW enlisted in MNRE’s Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM), the ministry said.MNRE added that it will continue engaging with stakeholders to ensure India’s renewable energy transition remains inclusive, competitive and future-ready.India, the statement noted, has already achieved 50 per cent of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, five years ahead of the target set under its nationally determined contributions to the Paris Agreement. As of October 31, 2025, installed non-fossil capacity stood at about 259 GW, with 31.2 GW added so far in the current financial year.

Global cues are likely to take centre stage for Indian equities in the coming week, with investors bracing for the US Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision and closely tracking foreign institutional investor (FII) activity for direction, PTI reported.Analysts said domestic markets, which ended last week largely flat, are expected to react to a mix of global monetary signals, macro data and currency movements. Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty closed the previous week with marginal losses, reflecting cautious sentiment.“This week, markets will closely track India’s CPI print on December 12. Globally, the spotlight will be on the US Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision, which could drive risk sentiment across emerging markets already navigating currency pressures,” Ajit Mishra, SVP (Research) at Religare Broking Ltd, said, PTI quoted.The rupee, which breached the 90-per-dollar mark last week, is also likely to stay on investors’ radar amid concerns over capital flows and global risk appetite.According to Pravesh Gour, senior technical analyst at Swastika Investmart Ltd, attention is firmly shifting to the US Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting scheduled for December 9–10. Alongside the rate decision, key US macro data will also be tracked.“Alongside the FOMC decision, key US economic data will remain on investors’ radar. The US JOLTs Job Openings data due on December 9 and the Employment Cost Index (q/q), scheduled for December 10, will provide fresh insights into the health of the US labour market and wage pressures,” Gour said.He added that movements in the US dollar index and Treasury bond yields will be critical, as sharp swings could influence risk appetite across global equity and debt markets.Market participants will also watch the tone of the Fed’s post-policy commentary and guidance on the future path of interest rates. “Beyond the rate action itself, investors will be keenly tracking the Fed’s commentary and guidance on the future path of interest rates — an element that may prove even more influential in the weeks ahead,” said Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money, PTI quoted him as saying.With India’s economic growth remaining resilient despite global headwinds, analysts believe the domestic market could benefit if global fund flows rotate back towards emerging markets. “In this context, the Fed’s messaging will be pivotal in shaping near-term sentiment and market direction for India,” Ponmudi added.(Disclaimer: Recommendations and views on the stock market, other asset classes or personal finance management tips given by experts are their own. These opinions do not represent the views of The Times of India)

Music composer Palash Muchhal has officially broken his silence on social media, confirming his decision to end his personal relationship with cricketer Smriti Mandhana. Following weeks of public speculation surrounding the postponement of his wedding and subsequent rumours, Muchhal posted a heartfelt statement on his Instagram story detailing the difficult decision to “move on in my life and step back from my personal relationship”.This statement comes close on the heels of Smriti Mandhana issuing an official statement on her social media, calling the wedding off.

Palash Mucchal addresses ‘baseless rumours’

Muchhal took to his Instagram Stories to share a post. He expressed the emotional difficulty of the situation, particularly witnessing the public reaction to the controversy. He stated that it has been “very difficult” for him to see people “react so easily on baseless rumours about something which has been most sacred to me”.Mucchal issued a plea for societal reflection, urging people to “pause before judging someone based on unverified gossip”. Muchhal further cautioned against the harm of speculation, emphasizing that “whose sources are never identified,” and that “Our words can wound in ways we may never understand”. He added that he will deal with this “most difficult phase” of his life “gracefully,” holding on to his beliefs.

Legal action announced against defamatory content

In a firm closing statement, the composer announced that he is taking decisive action against those spreading false information online. Muchhal confirmed that “My team will be taking strict legal action against those spreading false and defamatory content”.Mucchal concluded his message by offering gratitude to those who have supported him during this challenging time, stating, “Thank you to everyone who has stood by me with kindness in this tough time”. Muchhal’s post follows a similar statement from his former partner, Smriti Mandhana, who also confirmed the wedding was called off and requested privacy to focus on her cricket career.

Smriti Mandhana officially calls of the wedding

Taking to social media, Mandhana stated that while she is a very private person, it was “important for me to speak out at this time”. She explicitly clarified the situation, writing, “I need to clarify that the wedding is called off”.The cricketer implored fans and the public to respect the privacy of both families and allow them the space to “process and move on at our own pace”. Mandhana concluded her statement by shifting focus to her professional life, emphasizing that representing India remains her highest priority. “I believe there is a higher purpose driving us all and for me that has always been representing my country at the highest level,” she wrote, stating that winning trophies for India is where her focus will “forever be”.

Palash Mucchal and Smriti Mandhana’s relationship timeline

Smriti Mandhana and Palash Muchhal reportedly started dating in 2019. The relationship was kept largely private, with only occasional social media posts and supportive gestures hinting at their bond. The couple reportedly made it official in July 2024. In 2025 earlier this year, Mucchal shared a photo with Mandhana and the WPL trophy after she captained the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to victory, publicly celebrating her professional success. Following India’s historic Women’s ODI World Cup win, Mucchal unveiled a tattoo bearing Smriti’s initials and jersey number (SM18), which quickly went viral as a major declaration of love. Mucchal proposed to Smriti at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, the same venue where she had lifted the World Cup trophy days earlier. The highly publicized event marked their official engagement. On November 23, the wedding that was originally scheduled for this date in Sangli, was indefinitely postponed hours before the ceremony. The decision followed a sudden health crisis involving Smriti’s father, who was rushed to the hospital with heart-related symptoms. Amid the intense stress and uncertainty, Palash Muchhal was also reportedly admitted to the hospital. Amid swirling rumors, Smriti and several teammates quietly removed most wedding-related photos from their social media accounts, fueling speculation of a breakup.

With the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaching, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) find themselves in a peculiar position. Having retained a strong core of players, including the likes of Virat Kohli and Josh Hazlewood, the team possesses a solid foundation. However, their remaining purse of just INR 16.4 crore and a tight limit of eight available slots (including two overseas) means their strategy must be one of surgical precision, prioritizing impact players over big-name splurges.

The focus for RCB will be on filling specific tactical gaps: a potent Indian wrist-spinner, a high-impact overseas pacer, and bolstering the Indian middle-order depth. Let’s have a look at such players who may fit on RCB’s radar and the strategic rationale behind each target.

5 players RCB can bid for in IPL 2026 auction

1. Cameron Green

Green represents a rare, match-winning package of power-hitting, seam bowling, and elite fielding. While previously a part of the RCB setup before being traded, his availability makes him an instant target.

• Why RCB needs him: He offers stability and striking ability in the middle order, and his bowling provides a crucial high-pace option.
• IPL career: M: 29 | Runs: 707 @ 41.59 (SR: 153.70) | Wickets: 16 (Eco: 9.05)
• The challenge: With other franchises also showing keen interest, Green is projected to command a price tag that could consume half or more of RCB’s entire remaining purse. Signing him would be an all-or-nothing move, likely precluding a major spend on the other overseas slot.

2. Anrich Nortje

The South African speedster is one of the most feared fast bowlers in T20 cricket, known for his express pace and ability to deliver in the death overs.

• Why RCB needs him: Despite retaining Josh Hazlewood, RCB often needs a reliable, world-class backup or partner who can handle the pressure of the final overs, particularly on the small Chinnaswamy ground. Nortje would provide immediate pace firepower and much-needed experience.
• IPL career: M: 48 | Wickets: 69 @ 27.16 (Eco: 9.07) | Best: 3/33
• The Challenge: Nortje, also listed in the highest base price bracket (INR 2 Cr), will attract high bidding from teams desperate for a specialist overseas pacer. RCB’s limited purse makes securing him without overspending extremely difficult.

3. Ravi Bishnoi

A wrist-spinner is a luxury in T20 cricket, and Bishnoi is among the best Indian talents. While RCB has spin options, a world-class, wicket-taking leg-spinner offers a different dimension.

• Why RCB needs him: He provides a potent attacking option in the middle overs, a role that complements the control offered by all-rounders. His previous high-value retention status with another franchise suggests high confidence in his ability.
• IPL career: M: 77 | Wickets: 72 @ 31.07 (Eco: 8.22) | Best: 3/24
• The Challenge: Bishnoi has set his base price at the maximum Indian value (INR 2 Cr). While he addresses a key need, his cost means RCB must carefully weigh his value against other domestic targets.

4. Sarfaraz Khan

Following a strong domestic T20 season, Sarfaraz Khan‘s stock is rising. Having previously played for RCB, he understands the environment and can add crucial depth and power to the Indian batting unit.

• Why RCB needs him: He is a dynamic player who can anchor an innings or accelerate late, fulfilling the need for a reliable, high-potential Indian middle-order finisher. He represents a potential high-return investment at a lower cost than international stars.
• IPL career: M: 50 | Runs: 585 @ 22.05 (SR: 130.59) | HS: 67
• The advantage: Targeting Sarfaraz offers a fiscally responsible way to boost the Indian core.

Also READ: Glenn Maxwell issues a touching statement after withdrawing from the IPL 2026 auction

5. Rahul Tripathi

Tripathi is a versatile and aggressive top-order/middle-order Indian batter who brings a high strike rate and extensive IPL experience across multiple franchises.

• Why RCB needs him: If RCB seeks stability or a backup Indian opener/number three who can maximize the powerplay, Tripathi fits the bill perfectly. His ability to score quickly and handle pace bowling makes him a valuable domestic asset.
• IPL career: M: 100 | Runs: 2,291 @ 26.03 (SR: 137.85) | HS: 93
• The advantage: Like Sarfaraz, Tripathi can be acquired relatively cheaply, saving precious funds for the single big overseas player RCB decides to chase.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction: Complete list of players with base price of INR 2 crore – From Venkatesh Iyer to Steve Smith

Golden Knight’s right-winger Mitch Marner (Image Via Twitter)

Mitch Marner is one of the most promising right-wingers who has solidified his place and has quickly established himself as a dynamic force on the ice, who is now busy showcasing his professional skills with the Vegas Golden Knights since July 1, 2025.Known for his speed, creativity, and competitiveness despite a smaller frame, Marner reached several milestones: a Maple Leafs record 23-game point streak in 2022, 500 career points in just 467 games, and a career-high 99 points in 2022-23, which earned him a Selke Trophy nomination for his defensive play.Marner surpassed the 100-point mark for the first time in 2024-25. His decade-long run in Toronto ended when he was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights on July 1, 2025, where he signed an eight-year, $96 million contract after posting a career-best 102 points.Apart from his successful career, he has also earned significant wealth over the years. Let’s take a look at the details of his net worth in 2025, brand deals, endorsements, and life after moving to Vegas.

Mitch Marner’s net worth in 2025

According to Sportskeeda, Mitch Marner estimates a net worth of between $20 million and $25 million. After serving the Toronto Maple Leafs, his recent move to the Vegas Golden Knights has increased his value and recognition in the league. As per reports, Marner signed an eight-year, $96 million extension with Vegas, which is an average annual value of $12 million, adding to his annual net worth.

Mitch Marner’s career earnings in 2025

Reports suggest that Mitch Marner’s career earnings are rapidly climbing, and it is expected to exceed $83 million by mid-2025. His career earnings are going to be fueled by his massive 8-year, $96 million contract signed with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2025, including his earlier deals as well. According to Puckpedia, it is estimated that his total career earnings are around $97.65 million by late 2025, including his significant contracts.

Mitch Marner’s endorsements

As Marner continues to reign in the hockey league, over the years he has signed good endorsement deals. Marner has signed an endorsement and is associted with world-famous brands like Nike, Beats by Dre, RedBull, Amazon Canada, Oakley, and Intact Insurance.

Mitch Marner’s contract details

Star winger Mitch Marner has been traded from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Vegas Golden Knights in a blockbuster deal ahead of the 2025 NHL free-agency window in July, 1, 2025. The team secured Marner via trade, locking him into an eight-year contract worth whopping $96 million, with an average annual value of $12 million, making him one of the highest-paid wingers in the history of the league.Also read: Nikita Kucherov’s net worth: What are the current earnings of the Tampa Bay Lightning right-winger in 2025? | NHL News – The Times of India

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