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30cr cocaine seizure: Punjab man arrested, booked under NDPS Act | Mumbai News


Mumbai: In a controlled trap, a Customs official arrested a Ludhiana resident in connection with seizure of 1.079 kg of cocaine worth Rs 30 crore concealed inside a parcel at the International Courier Terminal in Mumbai. The parcel, which arrived from Côte d’Ivoire in West Africa, was declared to contain acrylic wool yarn for personal use. The NCB Mumbai zonal office arrested Jaspreet Singh, 47, on charges of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Act. tnn



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Railways makes ticket cancellation rules stricter, brings stricter norms for quality construction | India News


Railways makes ticket cancellation rules stricter, brings stricter norms for quality construction

New Delhi: A last-minute change in plans will cost you dearly, as the railways have announced a revised rule linking refunds to the timing of ticket cancellations before the scheduled departure of trains. As per the new rule, passengers who cancel their tickets less than eight hours before departure will receive no refund, while cancellations made between eight and 24 hours before departure will result in a 50% deduction.Announcing the changes as a part of ongoing reforms, railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Tuesday that under the new norm there will be 25% deduction for tickets cancelled between 24 and 72 hours before train’s departure while a minimal amount will be deducted for cancellation before 72 hours. The new rules will take effect between April 1 and 15.At present, passengers get no refund for cancelling a ticket within four hours and 50% deduction happens for tickets cancelled within 4-12 hours before train departure. Similarly, only 25% is deducted for tickets cancelled within 12-48 hours and there is minimal deduction for cancellation before 48 hours.Vaishnaw said tighter refund norms have been decided after investigation in the light of touts still hoarding some tickets and black marketing them. He said decoy customers sent by railways found how touts take advantage of the provision of last minute cancellation. The changes will discourage black marketing and last-minute sale of tickets by agents, he added.The minister also announced that passengers who have booked online tickets will be able to change the boarding point (station) 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. Currently, a change of boarding point is allowed only before preparation of the first chart.Vaishnaw announced reforms in the contracting norms to improve the quality of construction as well. As per the new norms, railways will assess the bid capacity of contractors bidding for all projects above Rs 10 crore. He also said that as per new norms, contractors must carry out works for 60% of total price directly under their own supervision and sub-contracting is allowed to 40%, something that follows PM Narendra Modi’s instructions to infrastructure ministries.Learning from the first Dedicated Freight Corridor project where players without having experience in similar project bagged work, which caused complications, now contractors who have done at least 20% “similar work” will only be eligible to bid. The bidders will also have to submit a detailed execution plan before the project starts for better monitoring and timely execution. Railways will take additional performance guarantee where the successful bidder quotes significantly lower than the estimated project cost.



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What makes RCB one of the most valuable brands in IPL history | Cricket News


What makes RCB one of the most valuable brands in IPL history
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title.

The rise of Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the IPL’s brand valuation charts, as per the 2025 Houlihan Lokey report, is the culmination of sporting success, strategic clarity, and unmatched fan engagement.After years of near-misses, RCB’s maiden IPL title win ended a 17-year wait, instantly transforming the franchise’s narrative from perennial underachievers to champions. That long-awaited triumph not only delivered silverware but also propelled their brand value to a league-leading US$269 million.

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RCB’s big changes ahead of IPL: New rules, tribute & squad update

A key factor behind this surge has been RCB’s ability to strike the right balance between continuity and reinvention. The appointment of Rajat Patidar as captain signalled a shift towards fresh leadership, while the continued presence of Virat Kohli ensured stability, experience, and global appeal.Kohli’s journey with the franchise — from its early years to lifting the trophy — added an emotional dimension that deeply resonated with fans.On the field, RCB built a formidable and well-rounded squad. Retaining core players and adding match-winners like Krunal Pandya, Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt, and Josh Hazlewood created depth and flexibility. This translated into consistent performances, with eight wins in their first 11 matches and a dominant run through the playoffs, culminating in a historic title victory.Off the field, RCB’s growth has been equally impressive. Strategic partnerships, alongside enhanced match-day experiences and grassroots initiatives across Karnataka, strengthened their connect with fans. Their digital presence — already among the strongest in the IPL — scaled new heights, amplified by Kohli’s enduring star power.Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket in 2025 further sharpened his focus on the IPL, boosting both performance and marketability.Combined with the IPL title and smart brand-building, RCB have evolved into more than just a cricket team — they are now the IPL’s most valuable and influential franchise.



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Horoscope Today: Daily astrological predictions for March 25, 2026


Horoscope Today: Daily astrological predictions for March 25, 2026

Horoscope Today: Read daily horoscope predictions for March 25, 2026. Know all about the astrological events and influences that will be affecting each of the 12 zodiac signs. Our astrologer has analyzed the movements of the planets and the alignment of the stars to bring you the most accurate and up-to-date horoscope predictions for the day ahead. Get ready to discover what the stars have in store for you today.Aries:Today, blessings from elders may bring you happiness. Your investments may yield profits, and past losses may now turn into gains. Your savings are likely to boost your bank balance. You may also plan to invest for your children’s future. Enjoying delicious food at home is also indicated. Health issues related to the throat, teeth, ears, or nose may improve.Taurus:Today, you are blessed by elders. Your patience will be strong, and your focus on work will be sharp. Your parents’ health is likely to improve. You may spend quality time with elders and may also meet an influential person who could support your professional growth. Romantic moments may enhance harmony in your domestic life.Gemini:Today, you may feel spiritually inclined and may help those in need. You may plan to donate to charity or a religious place. Your good karma may help you succeed in challenging projects. You may feel a sense of divine support guiding you through unexpected situations. Interest in occult subjects may increase. Students are likely to focus deeply on their studies.Cancer:Today, you may feel low and experience hidden fears, which could make you anxious. You may find it difficult to trust others. It is advised to practice meditation or prayer to overcome this mental state. With the blessings of elders, you may gradually come out of this situation by the evening.Leo:Today, you may be busy at work. Your network may expand, and with its support, you may secure a big order in business. You may initiate innovations in partnerships. Investments in your business may increase, leading to future growth. Your emotional bond with your spouse will strengthen.Virgo:Today, you may find yourself in a state of self-analysis, which will boost your confidence. Your focus on your goals will become clearer, helping you move toward success. Your creativity may improve, and you may develop an interest in art, movies, glamour, and real-life objects. By the end of the day, you will feel satisfied. Your opponents are likely to be under control.Libra:Today, you may use your creativity to renovate your home or office. Your focus on your goals will be strong. However, overworking may tire your mind, causing stress and restlessness, which could affect your domestic life. Students are advised to avoid distractions and focus on their studies with dedication.Scorpio:Today, you may feel dissatisfied as people around you may not cooperate. You are advised to remain patient. Carefully read all documents before signing any contracts. Avoid making investments in unproductive ventures, as they may create obstacles. Students should study with patience and focus.Sagittarius:Today, you may feel enthusiastic and focused, helping you speed up postponed projects. Your subordinates may support you in starting new projects, which could bring profits in the future. You may also undertake short trips related to family matters. Job seekers may receive good news regarding employment.Capricorn:Today, you may be busy with family matters and may take important decisions on the domestic front. Avoid arguments in personal matters, as arrogance could disturb harmony. You are advised to follow your intuition before making business investments.Aquarius:Today, your inner strength may help you initiate new ideas at work. You are likely to receive a big order in your family business, which will support future growth. New responsibilities at work may keep you busy. Job seekers may find good opportunities. Understanding with your spouse will improve, maintaining harmony in family life.Pisces:Today, you may feel low, and your health may not be at its best. You may experience nervousness, anxiety, and restlessness. It is advised to postpone important investments in business or real estate. Avoid rash driving and long-distance travel. Practicing meditation will help you manage stress and regain balance.



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Trump Modi Call: Trump dials Modi as US contemplates peace talks with Iran | India News


Trump dials Modi as US contemplates peace talks with Iran

US President Donald Trump spoke to PM Narendra Modi Tuesday about the West Asia situation, including the need to secure the key energy waterway, Strait of Hormuz, that remains under an Iranian blockade. Modi reiterated India’s support for de-escalation and restoration of peace at the earliest. Trump dialled Modi a day after he announced postponement of military strikes on Iranian plants for 5 days, raising hopes of an early cessation of military hostilities, and amid reports that Washington was considering sending Vice President JD Vance to Pakistan for talks with Iranian officials. This was also the first conversation between the 2 leaders since they spoke in early February, after which Trump announced agreement for a trade deal and lowered tariffs on India from 50 to 18 percent.

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US President Trump Dials PM Modi Amid West Asia Conflict, Discusses Strait Of Hormuz

“Received a call from President Trump and had a useful exchange of views on the situation in West Asia. India supports de-escalation and restoration of peace at the earliest. Ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, secure and accessible is essential for the whole world,” said Modi in a post on X, adding that they agreed to stay in touch regarding efforts towards peace and stability. According to an Indian readout, Modi noted that safe passage of ships through the Strait is vital for global peace, stability and economic well-being. External affairs minister S Jaishankar had spoken to his counterpart Marco Rubio on Monday about the conflict, its likely impact on the international economy and India’s energy security concerns. The news of Trump calling Modi was broken on social media by US ambassador Sergio Gor, who also told a news channel the president was keeping Modi “in the loop”. Trump and Modi also spoke on a day the former seemed to have endorsed Pakistan’s efforts to play the role of a mediator in the conflict. While Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif publicly offered to host talks between the US and Iran for a “comprehensive settlement” of the war that began on February 28, Trump shared a screenshot of Shehbaz’s post on his Truth Social platform. While Iran has allowed several Indian ships to sail through the Strait in the past 2 weeks, many Indian vessels remain stuck at the chokepoint. Government sources said India remains engaged diplomatically with Tehran to facilitate the movement of these ships. Jaishankar met Iran’s ambassador to India Mohammad Fathali on Tuesday and shared India’s concerns about the situation, while thanking Iran for its support to Indian nationals in the country. Modi on Tuesday also spoke to Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and discussed the evolving situation in West Asia, with particular focus, as he said, on disruptions affecting global energy security. “We reviewed progress on key initiatives aimed at strengthening India-Sri Lanka energy cooperation and enhancing regional security. As close and trusted partners, we reaffirmed our commitment to work closely together in addressing shared challenges,” said Modi in a social media post. India has not officially responded to Trump’s delaying of military action on Iranian energy installations with the MEA only saying the government is closely monitoring developments related to the conflict. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Tuesday both Modi and Jaishankar are stressing in their engagements that peace can be restored only through dialogue and diplomacy. Like many of US’ European allies, India had shown little interest in joining a US-led naval coalition to keep Strait of Hormuz open.



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No one country can ensure balance of power in Asia, India’s role indispensable: US official | India News


No one country can ensure balance of power in Asia, India’s role indispensable: US official

Signalling a more transactional and interest-driven focus in its ties with India, the US has said that its objective is to work with India to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific that is not founded in naivete or “gauzy abstractions” like the rules-based international order, but in strength, reason, and hard-nosed collaboration. As he laid out the US approach to ties with India in geopolitical and defence spheres, undersecretary of war for policy Elbridge Colby said Tuesday no single no single country can maintain a stable balance of power in Asia.

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Iran Threats Undermine 10 Million Indian Lives, Israel’s ‘Great Plans With India’: Envoy Azar

Instead, he said, stability will depend on the collective contributions of capable states that share an interest in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. Significantly, while he underlined India’s “indispensable” role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, Colby made no mention in his speech of Quad, the flagship US Indo-Pacific initiative revived by the first Trump administration. The mechanism, however, seems to have lost some of its salience with Washington after the president’s return to the White House as the US focus shifts from soft power initiatives to shared security outcomes and burden-sharing. The top US official was addressing an event at the Ananta Centre. As there’s no word yet on whether Trump would visit India this year for the Quad summit, hopes of a leaders’ meeting now rest on the France G7 summit in June that may see participation by leaders of all Quad countries. Colby took a swipe at Europe as he stressed that the US is still a rising power under Trump’s leadership but the same could not be said about some of Washington’s traditional partners, even as the US urges them to reinvigorate themselves. India, he said, was far different as a “waxing power”. “As a result, the United States believes that India will play a central role in ensuring a favorable balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. In this context, a strong, confident India is not only good for the Indian people. It is good for Americans as well,” said Colby, who is in India to discuss implementation of the Framework for the US-India Major Defense Partnership. The official suggested that the US may not be interested in framing of the relationship as one based just on shared democratic values, as he said the Indian-American partnership has its roots in practicality. “In line with this, the US approach to the strategic partnership is interests-based and realistic, shaped by geopolitics and incentives as opposed to gauzy aspirations or detached idealism,” said Colby, adding that Washington wants partnerships with vigorous, self-assured states, not with dependencies. Colby also backed external affairs minister S Jaishankar’s remarks that a nationalistic foreign policy outlook is likely to approach the world with more confidence and greater realism, saying this approach resonates with the US. Underlining the significance of “strategic candor” in ties, Colby said strong partnerships benefit from honesty, respect, and strategic clarity. As the bilateral relationship shows signs of recovery after one of its worst phases in recent times, Colby also said that the US and India do not need to agree on everything to cooperate effectively, as long as their interests and objectives increasingly converge on the most fundamental issues. Differences and even disputes are fully compatible with deepening alignment and cooperation on strategic matters, he said. The official also underscored the strategic centrality of military power for a stable balance in the region and the significance of defence industrial collaboration between India and the US.



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Sonia Gandhi: Congress leader Sonia Gandhi admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi | India News


Congress leader Sonia Gandhi admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has been admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi, news agency PTI reported, citing sources. According to sources, the veteran leader was feeling unwell due to the change in weather and was under observation.“A team of doctors is attending to her, but there is nothing serious,” sources told PTI.(This is a developing story)



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Fortnite publisher Epic Games to lay off more than 1,000 employees to curb costs


Fortnite publisher Epic Games to lay off more than 1,000 employees to curb costs

Epic Games on Tuesday said it will lay off more than 1,000 employees as the video game publisher moves to cut costs amid industry-wide pressures and company-specific challenges, AP reported.The Cary, North Carolina-based company said the job reductions are not linked to artificial intelligence, but reflect slower growth in the gaming sector, weaker consumer spending and rising cost pressures. It also noted that titles such as Fortnite are increasingly competing for users’ attention against social media and other digital entertainment platforms.The company added that it is also dealing with internal hurdles, including being “only in the early stages of returning to mobile” following prolonged legal battles with Apple and Google over app store payment systems.“This isn’t our first time being here. Epic survived upheavals in 1990s with the move from 2D to 3D with Unreal 1; in the 2000s building console games with Gears of War; and in 2012 moving to online gaming with Paragon and Fortnite,” chief executive and founder Tim Sweeney said in a memo to employees.“Market conditions today are the most extreme we’ve seen since those early days, with massive upheaval in the industry accompanied by massive opportunity for the companies that come out as winners on the other side,” he added.Epic said it will have around 4,000 employees after the latest round of layoffs, which account for roughly 20 per cent of its workforce.The company last undertook large-scale job cuts in 2023, when it laid off 830 employees, or about 16 per cent of its staff at the time.



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Dhurandhar 2: R Madhavan issues clarification after Sikh community files FIR against ‘Dhurandhar 2’: ‘Maine bakaayda cigarette bujha diya tha’ |


‘Dhurandhar 2’ has found itself in the midst of a controversy following criticism of a particular scene featuring R Madhavan and Ranveer Singh. An FIR was lodged at Mumbai’s Mulund Police Station by Gurjyot Singh Keer, a Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader and president of the group ‘Sikhs in Maharashtra’ raising objection to a scene in the film. The sequence in question shows Madhavan’s character holding a cigarette while lines from the Guru Gobind Singh Dasam Granth, which has not gone down well with the community. The complaint names Madhavan, Ranveer Singh, and filmmaker Aditya Dhar, accusing them of disrespecting Gurbani.Dhurandhar 2 Movie ReviewTaking to Instagram, Gurjyot shared a video outlining his objections, writing: “I strongly condemn the blatant disrespect shown towards Gurbani by the makers of Dhurandhar 2. Portraying a character, played by @actormaddy, talking to @ranveersingh while holding a cigarette and reciting sacred Gurbani is deeply hurtful and unacceptable. Gurbani is not mere dialogue, it is divine, sacred, and holds immense spiritual significance for the Sikh community. Such depiction reflects ignorance and a lack of sensitivity towards our faith. I urge the Sikh community to stand united and peacefully protest this insult. Show black flags to those responsible, Aditya Dhar, R. Madhavan, and Ranveer Singh, if they fail to issue a sincere apology to the SGPC and the Sikh community. Respect every faith. This is not creativity, this is disrespect.” R Madhavan has now addressed the issue and clarified the situation. In a video shared on social media, he explained that there may have been a misunderstanding regarding the scene. He said, “Dhurandhar ke pure parivar ke taraf se aapko bohot dhanyawaad ke aapne hamari film ko itna pyaar diya. Haal hi mein mujhe pataa chala hai ke kuch logon ko iss baat se takleef pahunchi hai ke Guru Govind ke dasam granth se kuch lines bolte waqt maine cigarette smoke ki hai aur isse un logon ko takleef pahunchi hai. Main aapko batana chahta hu ke yeh bilkul sahi nahi hai. Thodi galat faimi hai kyunki mujhe pura yakeen hai iss scene ke daruan aur bolte huye, Aditya Dhar ji ne joh ki mujhse zyada dhyaan rakhte hai in sab cheezon ka. Unhone kahaa tha mujhse ke yeh line bolte waqt aap cigarette bujha dijiyega aur naahi screen mein dhuaan dikhaaye dega aur naahi aapke haath mein cigarette hogi kyunki yeh hamare liye paak aur Pavitra hai. Maine bakaayda cigarette bujha diya tha aur naahi mere munh se dhuaan hai aur naahi pure scene mein cigarette ka naam o nishaan hai. (On behalf of the entire Dhurandhar team, I sincerely thank you for giving our film so much love. Recently, I came to know that some people were hurt by the perception that I was smoking a cigarette while reciting lines from Guru Gobind Singh’s Dasam Granth. I want to clarify that this is absolutely not true. There seems to be a misunderstanding because I am certain that during this scene, while delivering those lines, Aditya Dhar—who is even more mindful about such matters than I am—had clearly instructed me to put out the cigarette. He ensured that there would be no smoke visible on screen and that I would not be holding a cigarette while reciting those lines, as they are sacred and pure for u. I had properly extinguished the cigarette, and there is no smoke coming from my mouth, nor is there any trace of a cigarette in the entire scene).” He further added, “Jaane anjaane mein bhi hum kisiko takleef nahi pahunchana chaahte. Puri sikh community ke saath hum hai aur hamesha rahenge. Hum unka bohot aadar karte hai. Har film ke release ke Pehle main khud hi golden temple jaata hu joh sabko pataa hai. Main phir se kehta hu ke scene ke shuruaat mein mere haath mein cigarette thi par uske baad scene shuru hoti hai, main bakaayda bujhaa deta hu. Aur mere line mein bohot Pehle se hi scene pe bilkul dhuaan nai hai. Maaf kijiyega par humne yakeenan yeh kaam nai kiya hai. (We never want to hurt anyone, knowingly or unknowingly. We stand with the entire Sikh community and always will. We have immense respect for them. Before the release of every film, I personally visit the Golden Temple, which everyone knows. I want to reiterate that at the beginning of the scene, I did have a cigarette in my hand, but as the scene begins, I properly put it out. Even while delivering my lines, there is absolutely no smoke visible. I apologise, but we certainly have not done what is being claimed).”



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BCCI introduces new guidelines for IPL 2026 with stricter rules to ensure smooth and professional conduct



The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced some new guidelines for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. These rules aim to protect pitch quality, ensure fair play, maintain a neat on-field look, and bring more discipline to how teams prepare and behave during the high-pressure tournament.

Here’s a clear look at the key changes that every franchise, player, and support staff member must follow this year.

No practice allowed on match days

One of the biggest shifts is the complete ban on any practice sessions or fitness tests on the main square on match days. Teams can no longer squeeze in last-minute nets or drills once the match is scheduled. This move is designed to preserve the playing surface and give every side equal conditions.

For regular practice sessions (on non-match days), each team will get two nets in the designated practice area and one side wicket on the main square for range hitting. At venues like Wankhede Stadium, special arrangements ensure both teams get their own space if they train at the same time. No open nets are permitted, and teams cannot use or share the wickets allotted to the opposition, even if one side finishes early.

Also READ: Punjab Kings star Shreyas Iyer spotted watching ‘Dhurandhar 2’ ahead of IPL 2026

Support staff limits and approvals

Only 12 accredited support staff members (including the team doctor) will be allowed on match days. For extra help, like throw-down specialists or net bowlers, franchises must submit a list in advance for BCCI approval. On practice days, only accredited staff can enter the dressing room or step onto the field of play.

Travel and family rules

Players must travel to the stadium for practice sessions in the official team bus (teams can split into two batches if needed). Family members and friends have to use separate vehicles and can only watch from the hospitality area, and they won’t be allowed near the practice zones.

Dress code and presentation rules

To keep the broadcast and on-field presentation clean, players are encouraged to wear the Orange Cap and Purple Cap during matches. If a player doesn’t wear the cap, they must put it on for at least the first two overs until the broadcaster captures the shot.

In post-match presentations, sleeveless jerseys and floppies (slippers) are strictly banned. The first violation will bring a warning, while a second offence will result in a financial penalty.

Other important do’s and dont’s

  • Players and support staff must not sit in front of the LED boards. Designated seating spots with towels and water bottles will be marked for substitutes.
  • Teams are requested not to hit balls onto the LED boards, even though hitting nets are provided.
  • Any change in a player’s jersey number must be informed to the BCCI at least 24 hours in advance.
  • All PMOA-accredited staff must carry their accreditation cards on match days; first miss gets a warning, second brings a fine.

Also READ: Sunil Gavaskar criticizes overseas players for delayed arrivals ahead of IPL 2026



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