President Donald Trump speaks with Corey Williams, Ford River Rouge Plant Manager, during a tour of the Ford River Rogue complex, Tuesday, Jan. 13 (AP photo)

US President Donald Trump a visited a Ford Motor Co. assembly line in Michigan on Tuesday in an attempt to push his manufacturing agenda, as his administration works to counter voter anxiety over jobs, inflation and the cost of living. Trump walked the factory floor at Ford’s River Rouge complex in Dearborn, watching F-150 pickup trucks move through different stages of production. The F-150 is the bestselling domestically produced vehicle in the US. He observed how gas-powered and hybrid versions are assembled, along with the all-gas Raptor model built for off-road performance. Wearing a suit amid workers in reflective vests, Trump stopped to chat with assembly line employees, some of whom applauded as he arrived, and spoke with Ford executive chairman Bill Ford. “All US automakers are doing great,” Trump said, later adding that the “quality is unbelievable,” as quoted by the Associated Press. After leaving the plant, Trump headed to MotorCity Casino, where he addressed members of the Detroit Economic Club. He framed the speech as a straightforward exercise in listing his administration’s accomplishments. “This is the easiest speech to make,” Trump said, explaining that all he was doing was “spewing off what the hell we’ve done.” “Right now I’m feeling pretty good,” he added. Despite the confident tone, recent election results suggest many voters remain unconvinced. Tuesday’s stop marked Trump’s third visit to a swing state since last month focused on economic messaging, following Republican losses in off-year elections in Virginia, New Jersey and other states where concerns about everyday expenses dominated. The White House said after the trip that Trump plans to travel more frequently to make his economic case directly to the public and address lingering financial fears. Trump previously dismissed affordability concerns as a “hoax” fueled by Democrats. At the same time, his administration has imposed sweeping tariffs on US trading partners, while selectively easing some measures affecting the auto industry, including extending import levies on foreign-made auto parts until 2030. Speaking on the factory floor, Trump highlighted tariffs on vehicles imported from China and said he hopes to prevail at the Supreme Court, which is reviewing the legality of his broader tariff strategy. He also downplayed the relevance of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, the North American trade deal he negotiated during his first term, suggesting it is no longer necessary for the US. The USMCA is scheduled for review this year. Earlier, before departing Washington, Trump had pointed to encouraging inflation data as evidence his economic approach is working. December figures showed inflation eased slightly as gas and used-car prices declined. Consumer prices rose 0.3 per cent in December from the previous month, matching November’s increase, according to the Labor Department. “We have very low inflation,” Trump told reporters on the White House lawn, adding that “growth is going up. We have tremendous growth numbers.” Even so, surveys continue to show Americans remain worried about inflation and rising daily expenses. Trump’s effort to refocus attention on economic growth comes amid controversy over his Justice Department opening a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Powell has described the move as a direct attempt to undermine the Fed’s independence on interest rates, a view echoed by former central bank leaders, economic officials and some Republican lawmakers. Asked about the investigation before heading to Michigan, Trump repeated his long-standing criticisms of Powell but declined to comment on the case itself. The Michigan visit also intersected with the administration’s rollback of electric vehicle policies. Ford announced in December that it was abandoning plans for an electric F-150, despite heavy investment in electrification, after the Trump administration cut targets for EV sales by 2030, eliminated tax credits and proposed easing emissions and fuel economy standards. Trump’s stop followed similar economy-focused appearances last month in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. In Pennsylvania, remarks about immigrants from “filthy” countries overshadowed his inflation message. In North Carolina, he argued that tariffs had strengthened the economy, even as residents complained of higher prices. Like Michigan, Pennsylvania’s event was also held at a casino, the Mount Airy Casino Resort. Trump carried Michigan in 2016 and again in 2024, after losing the state to Democrat Joe Biden in 2020. He marked his first 100 days in office with a rally-style speech outside Detroit, where he focused heavily on past political grievances rather than detailed economic plans. During that earlier visit, Trump also appeared at Selfridge Air National Guard Base and announced a new fighter jet mission, easing concerns about the base’s future. The move was welcomed by Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who shared a hug with the president at the time. Democrats sharply criticised Tuesday’s trip. They pointed to national Republicans’ opposition to extending health care subsidies and recalled Trump’s comments during an October 2024 address to the Detroit Economic Club, when he warned that another Democratic term would leave the country in ruins. “Our whole country will end up being like Detroit,” Trump had said then. “You’re going to have a mess on your hands,” he added. Curtis Hertel, chair of the Michigan Democratic Party, accused Trump of political opportunism. “After spending months claiming that affordability was a ‘hoax’ and creating a health care crisis for Michiganders, Donald Trump is now coming to Detroit — a city he hates — to tout his billionaire-first agenda while working families suffer,” Hertel said in a statement. “Michiganders are feeling the effects of Trump’s economy every day,” he added.

Harmanpreeet Kaur, Amanjot Kaur

NEW DELHI: Two Kaurs, a Carey , and a handful of dropped catches – that was all Mumbai Indians needed to chase down Gujarat Giants’ 193 and secure a seven-wicket win at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Mumbai Indians comfortably achieved the target in the sixth match of the Women’s Premier League 2026 on Tuesday, leaving Ashleigh Gardner’s Gujarat Giants short.Mumbai Indians chased down Gujarat Giants’ target with seven wickets in hand in the sixth match of the Women’s Premier League 2026 on Tuesday.Mumbai Indians needed 193 to win. The chase began with an early setback as both openers were dismissed for a total of 37 inside the first five overs. Amanjot Kaur and Harmanpreet Kaur then steadied the innings with a 72-run partnership. Amanjot scored 40 off 26 balls, while Harmanpreet made 71 off 43 deliveries.After Amanjot’s dismissal in the 13th over, Mumbai Indians remained in control. Nicola Carey joined Harmanpreet and added momentum to the chase with 38 off 23 balls. Mumbai Indians reached the target comfortably in 19.2 overs to register a seven-wicket win.Earlier, Gujarat Giants posted 192 for five in 20 overs after being asked to bat first. Openers Sophie Devine and Beth Mooney got Gujarat off to a quick start, hitting four boundaries in the second over. Devine was dismissed for eight off four balls by Shabnim Ismail, leaving Gujarat at 26 for one in three overs.Kanika Ahuja then struck a six and a four in the next over as Gujarat moved to 40 for one. At the end of the powerplay, Gujarat were 62 for one, their third-best powerplay score in WPL history.Amelia Kerr removed Mooney for 33 off 26 balls in the seventh over. Nicola Carey dismissed Gujarat captain Ashleigh Gardner in the 10th over. Gardner scored 20 off 11 balls as Gujarat reached 99 for three at the halfway stage.Hayley Matthews dismissed Kanika Ahuja for 35 off 18 balls in the 11th over, reducing Gujarat to 101 for four. Georgia Wareham and Ayushi Soni then added stability. Gujarat were 130 for four after 15 overs. Soni, who made 11 off 14 balls, was retired out after the 16th over.In the final four overs, Wareham and Bharti Fulmali put together an unbeaten 56-run partnership. Fulmali scored 36 not out off 15 balls, while Wareham finished on 43 not out off 33 deliveries. Their stand helped Gujarat Giants close on 192 for five.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma has ignited fresh debate among cricket fans after revealing his all-time Indian Premier League (IPL) XI ahead of the 2026 season. Shared via the Crictracker Instagram handle, Jitesh’s selection features some of the most iconic performers in IPL history. However, the biggest talking point has been the absence of former RCB captain Virat Kohli, one of the league’s most prolific run-scorers.

Jitesh Sharma names his all-time IPL XI

Star studded top and middle-order

Jitesh’s chosen XI reflects a clear preference for match-winners who have consistently influenced games across multiple IPL seasons. At the top of the order, he picked Rohit Sharma alongside former Deccan Chargers and Kings XI Punjab legend Adam Gilchrist (2069 runs). The combination blends Rohit’s calm leadership and clutch performances with Gilchrist’s explosive intent in the powerplay. Rohit is the second all-time leading run-scorer in IPL, having amassed 7046 runs in 272 matches.

The middle order is equally formidable, featuring Suryakumar Yadav (4311 runs), widely admired for redefining modern T20 batting, and legendary South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis (2427 runs and 65 wickets), whose consistency with both bat and ball made him invaluable during his IPL stint.

Power-packed finish with iconic names

For the finishing role, Jitesh opted for a trio that has shaped IPL history in different ways. Hardik Pandya (2749  runs and 78 wickets) brings explosive hitting and seam bowling, while MS Dhoni (5439 runs) slots in as wicketkeeper and leader, a nod to his unparalleled legacy as a captain and finisher.

Completing the batting firepower is AB de Villiers (5162 runs), whose ability to dominate bowlers in any situation made him one of the most feared batters the league has ever seen.

Balanced bowling attack with proven performers

Jitesh’s bowling unit focuses on control, variation, and big-match temperament. All-rounder Axar Patel (1916 runs and 128 wickets) provides balance and reliability in the middle overs, while mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy (100 wickets) adds unpredictability.

The pace attack is led by Jasprit Bumrah (183 wickets), widely regarded as the most lethal IPL fast bowler of his generation. Australian quick Josh Hazlewood (57 wickets) completes the XI, offering bounce, discipline, and consistency in high-pressure games.

Also WATCH: Prithvi Shaw drops a cute post featuring his love interest Akriti Agarwal ahead of IPL 2026

No place for Virat Kohli

The exclusion of Kohli from Jitesh’s all-time IPL XI has come as a major surprise, considering Kohli is the leading run-scorer in the history of the league. Over the years, Kohli has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL, combining longevity with match-winning impact at the top of the order. His record-breaking 2016 season, leadership for RCB, and ability to anchor as well as accelerate an innings have made him a defining figure of the tournament. Given his stature and statistical dominance, many fans expected Kohli to be an automatic choice, which is why his absence has sparked widespread discussion and contrasting opinions across social media. Notably, Kohli is the only player to cross 8,000 runs mark in IPL, having scored 8661 runs in 267 games with 8 hundreds and 63 half-centuries.

Jitesh Sharma’s all-time IPL XI:

Rohit Sharma, Adam Gilchrist, Suryakumar Yadav, Jacques Kallis, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni, AB de Villiers, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood

Also READ: IPL 2026: 3 players PBKS can sign to replace Lockie Ferguson if he misses out

File photo (Picture credit: ANI)

India’s telecom industry body COAI has asked the government to reduce regulatory levies and ease Goods and Services Tax (GST) norms in the upcoming Union Budget, arguing that high statutory payments continue to strain the sector’s finances.The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), whose members include Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea, has proposed lowering the licence fee to 0.5–1 per cent from the current 3 per cent, saying the existing structure places a heavy burden on telecom operators, reported news agency PTI.At present, the licence fee comprises a 3 per cent levy on Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR), along with a 5 per cent contribution to the Digital Bharat Nidhi. “The licence fee, which is a combination of the licence (three per cent of AGR) and Digital Bharat Nidhi Contribution (five per cent of AGR), is a huge financial burden for the licensed telcos,” COAI said in its submission.The association argued that a reduced levy of 0.5–1 per cent would be sufficient to cover administrative costs.COAI has also urged the Department of Telecommunications to pause further contributions to the Digital Bharat Nidhi until the existing unutilised corpus is fully used. The industry body said such steps would help reduce financial stress and allow operators to invest more in network expansion and next-generation connectivity, in line with the government’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision.On GST-related issues, COAI flagged concerns over rising input tax credit (ITC) accumulation in the sector. It recommended a special GST exemption on regulatory payments such as licence fees, spectrum usage charges (SUC), and spectrum acquired through auctions, reported news agency ANI.As an alternative, the association suggested cutting the GST rate under the Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM) on these payments to 5 per cent from the current 18 per cent. COAI said this would be revenue-neutral for the government while offering liquidity relief to telecom operators and helping reduce ITC pile-up, as per ANI.COAI director general Lt Gen Dr SP Kochhar said the current levy framework continues to impose a significant financial burden on licensed telecom operators. The association also proposed allowing the use of existing ITC balances to discharge GST liabilities under RCM on licence fees and SUC, a move it said would reduce cash outflows and improve credit utilisation.Emphasising the sector’s wider role, COAI said telecommunications is no longer a standalone vertical but a “horizontal value-added enabler” supporting multiple industries. In this context, it has called for a broader recalibration of spectrum pricing and assignment models to reflect the sector’s strategic importance in India’s digital economy.

US President Donald Trump (AP)

TOI correspondent from Washington: US President Donald Trump has certifiably changed his mind on regime change. On Tuesday, the MAGA supremo directly encouraged a public uprising in Iran after imposing a blanket 25 per cent tariff on any country that continues to do business with the Islamic Republic in an effort to topple the ruling Islamic government in Teheran.“Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!! Save the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a big price….HELP IS ON ITS WAY. MIGA!!!” Trump posted on social media amid reports of a bloodbath in Iran following a crackdown on protests, unapologetically wading into Iran’s internal affairs. Trump’s open backing for the revolt came hours after he said Iranian leadership had reached out to him for talks and the U.S was weighing a choice between military action and negotiations, with some senior aides, including vice-president J.D.Vance, reportedly in favor of the latter course. “There seems to be some people killed who weren’t supposed to be killed. We’re looking at it very seriously; the military’s looking at it. And there’s a couple options,” Trump said on Monday as reports of a bloody crackdown flowed out of Iran. By Tuesday morning, the U.S President appeared to have set his mind on effecting a regime change in yet another country (after similar approach in Venezuela and Cuba), announcing he has “cancelled all meetings with Iranian Officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOPS,” and pledging “HELP IS ON ITS WAY.”While Trump campaigned in the past against regime-change wars, his administration is now openly exploring tools to bring about leadership change in Iran and Cuba, after effecting one in Venezuela. He has reportedly been briefed on options ranging from long-range missile strikes to cyber operations and psychological campaigns in Iran, and even though White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said “diplomacy is always the first option for the president,” the temptation to pull off a coup in Iran on the back of widespread protests appears irresistible for now for Washington hawks like Senator Lindsay Graham. Analysts point to several reasons behind Trump’s evolution from opposing regime change to actively pursuing it in countries such as Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba. The administration views these governments as economically weak and politically brittle, believes coercive leverage can work without large-scale U.S. troop deployments, and increasingly frames them as part of a broader anti-American axis aligned with China and Russia. A more conspiratorial explanation by critics, who have dubbed Trump the “Walt Disney of chaos” is such frenetic activity is designed to distract voters from everyday issues at home. Many MAGA principals remain skeptical of Washington getting into another fracas in the middle-east. Former Trump aide Steve Bannon among others are berating Fox News and Graham for encouraging the latest caper, reminding them of the quagmire the U.S got into in Iraq. While most Democrats have uniformly opposed U.S interference in Iran, even some Republican lawmakers, the “non-interventionist” wing of the party have cautioned about getting into another fracas.“The Constitution does not permit the executive branch to unilaterally commit an act of war against a sovereign nation that hasn’t attacked the United States,” Thomas Massie, an anti-Trump Kentucky Republican said while introducing a bipartisan War Powers Resolution to block unauthorized hostilities against Iran.