Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings are set to usher in a new phase of their IPL journeys on Monday, but the weather in Guwahati threatens to take centre stage even before a ball is bowled.The IPL 2026 opener between the two sides comes with renewed narratives after both teams hit the reset button following bottom-place finishes last season. However, multiple weather forecasts have cast doubt over how much action fans will witness. While BBC Weather has predicted “thundery showers” through the scheduled match hours, Weather.com has also indicated consistent rain from early evening until midnight. AccuWeather, in contrast, offers a more optimistic outlook, suggesting the rain could clear before the toss, although high humidity is expected to persist.Beyond the uncertainty in the skies, the contest marks a significant shift in personnel and leadership. Sanju Samson will turn out for CSK after leading Rajasthan Royals until last season, while Ravindra Jadeja has moved in the opposite direction, returning to the franchise where he began his IPL career in 2008. The trade, which also involved Sam Curran, has reshaped both squads.Riyan Parag will lead Rajasthan Royals in a new role, while Ruturaj Gaikwad takes back the Chennai Super Kings captaincy after his 2025 campaign was cut short by injury. CSK will also be without MS Dhoni for the opening phase due to a calf issue, and Dewald Brevis has been ruled out of the first game.

On paper, Rajasthan Royals appear to have addressed their balance issues. The addition of Jadeja alongside Ravi Bishnoi gives them greater control in the middle overs, while their pace attack, featuring Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger and Adam Milne, offers variety and pace.Chennai Super Kings, however, have questions to answer, particularly with the ball. The absence of Nathan Ellis leaves a gap in the death overs, with the attack largely made up of bowlers who are more effective in the powerplay. Noor Ahmad is expected to handle the middle overs, but the closing stages remain a concern.Also Read: RR vs CSK Live Score

NEW DELHI: The government has drawn a hard line under its electronics push, pairing fresh approvals worth thousands of crores with a blunt warning: subsidies will not flow to companies that treat India as a factory floor without building design muscle. Signalling a shift from scale to strategic value, Union IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday said firms under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) must embed design, quality and engineering in India or risk losing support. The warning comes alongside a fresh set of approvals that underline the scheme’s scale. The ministry has cleared 29 new projects involving Rs 7,104 crore investment, taking total approvals to Rs 61,671 crore—surpassing the initial Rs 59,350 crore target.Vaishnaw flagged gaps in industry response, saying the pace of strengthening design and quality capabilities has fallen short of expectations. “Real value gets captured only if design is done in India,” he said, making it clear that incentives will be tied to deeper technological capabilities.He issued a direct warning that approvals alone do not guarantee funding. “We are willing to stop any further disbursements or approvals if the industry doesn’t come up with the commensurate efforts,” he said, adding, “on applications that have been approved, we won’t even disburse if the asks aren’t met.”The scheme now spans 75 applications across 23 product categories and 12 states, with projected production of over Rs 4.5 lakh crore and employment potential exceeding 65,000 jobs, according to official data. The latest approvals include India’s first rare earth permanent magnet manufacturing unit, backed by Rs 700 crore investment and based on indigenous intellectual property, alongside projects in high-end PCBs, capacitors and connectors—segments aimed at building core electronics capabilities.Even as approvals gather pace, the government has tightened compliance. Companies have been given 15 days to submit plans addressing four key requirements—product design, Six Sigma quality standards, talent development and local sourcing.“Manufacturing is easier; translating design into a reliable product is far more complex,” Vaishnaw said, stressing that Six Sigma processes are “essential” for ensuring global-quality output.In a pointed message to industry, the minister said firms failing to align with the government’s integrated approach risk being “weeded out”, adding he may skip the next review meeting if progress remains inadequate. The ministry also indicated stricter monitoring of milestones, linking future incentives to measurable outcomes in design capability, localisation and quality benchmarks across the electronics value chain.

TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains references to death.The Bengali entertainment industry is mourning the loss of Rahul Arunoday Banerjee, popularly known as Rahul. The 43-year-old actor was shooting for the Bengali television show ‘Bhole Baba Par Karega’ in Digha. According to Anandabazar Patrika, the actor drowned in the sea in Talsari and was rescued by technicians after some time.He was rushed to a hospital in Digha around 6 PM, where doctors reportedly declared him dead on arrival. Preliminary reports suggest drowning as the cause of death, although the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear.Bhaskar Banerjee, who plays another character on the same TV show, told Anandabazar that the entire unit had gone to Talsari for the shoot. According to him, Rahul went into the sea after pack-up. When he did not return for a long time, the team went looking for him.Actor Diganta Bagchi, speaking on behalf of the Artists’ Forum, told Anandabazar that Rahul had gone to the sea after the shoot wrapped. He added that Rahul was still alive when he was rescued by technicians, but was declared dead after being taken to the hospital.Arunoday Banerjee, better known as Rahul, made his stage debut at the age of three with his father Biswanath Banerjee’s theatre troupe, Bijoygarh Atmaprakash, in the play ‘Raj Darshan’. Since then, he had performed in hundreds of stage shows, both with his father’s troupe and with Theatron.Alongside theatre, Rahul ventured into films and television, gaining his breakthrough with the TV show ‘Khela’, where he played the role of Aditya. He later became a household name with the Raj Chakraborty-directed film ‘Chirodini Tumi Je Amar’.He was also known for his performances in projects like ‘Zulfiqar’, ‘Na Hannyate’, ‘Byomkesh Phire Elo’, and ‘Academy of Fine Arts’, among many other notable works in his career.In recent years, he launched his own podcast, ‘Shohoj Katha’, which received praise and recognition.On the personal front, he was married to actress and co-star from ‘Chirodini Tumi Je Amar’, Priyanka Sarkar. The couple separated in 2017 but reunited in 2023. They have a son, Shohoj Banerjee.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season has barely begun, but it has already delivered its first major controversy. Following Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) six-wicket defeat to Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium, a pointed remark from captain Ajinkya Rahane has triggered a wider debate – forcing Cricket Australia (CA) to step in with a clarification.

At the centre of the storm is Cameron Green, KKR’s high-profile signing worth INR 25.20 crore, who did not bowl a single over despite MI’s dominant chase of 220.

Ajinkya Rahane’s remark sparks debate as KKR feel the heat

KKR seemed in control after posting a commanding 220/4, but the script flipped dramatically as Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton tore apart their bowling attack, stitching together a 148-run opening stand in just over 11 overs.

With key pacers unavailable and no contribution from Green with the ball, KKR looked short of options. Naturally, questions were raised during the post-match presentation.

When asked about Green’s absence with the ball, Rahane offered a response that quickly grabbed attention: “That question you need to ask Cricket Australia.”

He further added: “Hopefully Green starts to bowl soon, and the combination will be slightly different. We batted really well, but finding that balance with the ball is really important.”

The tone suggested frustration, hinting that KKR might not have had full control over Green’s role. With no sixth bowling option, Rahane had limited flexibility as MI cruised to victory.

KKR’s bowling figures told the story – none of the bowlers could stem the flow of runs and even experienced names like Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy struggled to make an impact.

Cricket Australia clarifies injury status and timeline

With speculation growing, CA quickly issued a statement to clear the air. According to the board, Green is currently dealing with a lower back injury and is undergoing a carefully managed return to bowling.

“Cameron has a lower back injury which is being managed but requires him to abstain from bowling for a short period. Cameron is currently rebuilding his bowling loads in India with a view to return in around 10-12 days’ time. KKR has been communicated with and is fully aware of this information,” the statement read.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton guide MI to record-breaking win over KKR in IPL 2026

The message was clear – KKR were not caught off guard. The franchise had prior knowledge of Green’s limitations before the tournament began.

This injury is not new. The 26-year-old all-rounder has had a history of back issues and even underwent surgery in late 2024. Since then, CA has taken a cautious approach, limiting his bowling workload to ensure long-term fitness.

Green is expected to resume bowling in about 10-12 days, meaning he could miss several early matches as a bowling option. For now, he will continue to play purely as a batter.

The situation also reflects a broader trend. Several Australian players, including Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, are being managed carefully due to injuries and workload concerns. CA appears firm in prioritizing player fitness over franchise demands.

For KKR, however, the challenge is immediate. Green was expected to provide balance as an all-rounder, but his temporary inability to bowl leaves a noticeable gap in the lineup.

There is, however, a silver lining. Green looked comfortable with the bat, scoring a quick 18 off 10 balls at No. 3. His presence still adds firepower to the batting unit, and once he resumes bowling, KKR could finally unlock the balance they invested in.

Until then, Rahane and his team will need to find solutions quickly as IPL 2026 gathers pace.

Also READ: KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane questions Cricket Australia’s stance on Cameron Green post IPL 2026 match against MI

Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings begin IPL 2026 with revamped squads after finishing at the bottom last season. RR have handed captaincy to Riyan Parag, while CSK are led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, who returns after an injury-hit 2025 campaign. Sanju Samson, now part of CSK, is set to open alongside Gaikwad, with MS Dhoni likely to miss the first two weeks due to a calf injury.

The biggest storyline is Ravindra Jadeja’s move to RR. His presence brings balance to a side that struggled with team combination last season. With Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, and Adam Milne in the pace unit and Ravi Bishnoi supporting Jadeja, RR look far more settled.

CSK, however, face bowling concerns after Nathan Ellis’ withdrawal. Matt Henry and Noor Ahmad will be key, but questions remain over death bowling options. The No.3 spot is also undecided, with Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel, and Sarfaraz Khan in contention.

With rain forecast in Guwahati and a fresh pitch in play, both teams will look to adapt quickly. Samson’s role at the top and Jadeja’s impact in the middle overs could define the contest.

NEW DELHI: Bihar chief minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar on Monday resigned from the Bihar legislative council days after securing a place in Rajya Sabha, marking an end of era in the state politics. The move has triggered fresh speculation over an impending change of guard in the state’s top post.Now all eyes will be on who takes over Nitish’s reign as Bihar chief minister as both JD(U) and BJP may push for the upper hand in the alliance equation.The announcement, however, may not come immediately going by the remarks from within the JD(U), where leaders have repeatedly invoked a constitutional provision allowing a chief minister to continue for up to six months without being a member of the legislature. The six-month rule Close aides of the 75-year-old Nitish Kumar, along with senior ministers like Shravan Kumar, have made cryptic references to the constitutional window, keeping political circles abuzz, according to news agency PTI. While no official plan has been announced, the repeated emphasis on the provision has added to speculation that a leadership shift is being calibrated.Sources in the NDA, however, suggest Nitish is unlikely to remain in office for the entire six-month period. There is also talk that he could move to the Rajya Sabha early next month, a step that may smoothen the transition.Timing linked to ‘Kharmaas’Insiders indicate that any change in leadership may only take place after ‘Kharmaas’, the inauspicious period in the Hindu calendar that ends on April 14. The timing, they say, could be a key factor in determining when the baton is passed.BJP eyes top post after long waitThe developments have energised the BJP, which sees a real opportunity to install its own chief minister in Bihar for the first time despite being part of the ruling coalition for nearly two decades. With JD(U) only marginally ahead in numbers, the BJP is believed to be weighing its options carefully.Among the frontrunners is deputy CM Samrat Choudhary, who holds the home portfolio. A Koeri leader and a potential successor to Kurmi face Nitish Kumar, as Samrat could help maintain the crucial Kurmi-Koeri caste equation in Bihar. His elevation may enable the BJP to consolidate support among a significant OBC group and counter perceptions of being an upper-caste-centric party.However, some within the BJP point to his relatively recent entry into the party in 2017, after stints in RJD and JD(U), as a factor that may affect his acceptability within certain sections of the organisation.Another key contender is Union minister of state for home Nityanand Rai, a former state BJP president who is seen as having strong backing from the central leadership.Delhi likely to take final callParty sources speaking to PTI indicate that while the BJP legislative party will formally elect the leader, the decision is likely to be made by the central leadership. They point to precedents such as Rajasthan, where leadership choices were finalised in Delhi before being announced in the state.Amid the speculation, JD(U) leaders maintain that the party will seek a fair share in the new cabinet if a leadership change takes place. There is also buzz that Nitish Kumar’s son, Nishant Kumar, who recently joined active politics, could be considered for a key role, possibly as deputy chief minister.

SSC CPO Result 2026: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has officially declared the SSC CPO 2025 Paper-I result for recruitment of Sub-Inspectors in Delhi Police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). Candidates who appeared for the exam held from December 9 to 12, 2025 can now check their qualifying status for the next stage—Physical Endurance Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST).The result has been prepared using normalized marks, and candidates with NCC certificates have been provisionally awarded bonus marks, subject to verification during document checking.Minimum Qualifying MarksAs per SSC guidelines:• Unreserved (UR): 30% (60 marks)• OBC / EWS: 25% (50 marks)• SC / ST / Others: 20% (40 marks)SSC CPO Cut-off 2026: Female Candidates (List-I)

Note: 87 (SC), 26 (ST), 955 (OBC), and 600 (EWS) candidates meeting the UR cut-off are included in their respective categories.SSC CPO Cut-off 2026: Male Candidates (List-II)

Note: 1608 (SC), 744 (ST), 74 (ESM), 9925 (OBC), and 5456 (EWS) candidates qualifying at UR cut-off are counted under their respective categories.SSC CPO Cut-off 2026: Male Departmental (Delhi Police Only – List-III)This category is specifically for Delhi Police departmental candidates, unlike the above two lists which include both Delhi Police and CAPFs.

Important ClarificationList-I (Female) and List-II (Male) include candidates for both Delhi Police and CAPFs.List-III (Male Departmental) is only for Delhi Police serving personnel.What’s Next? PET/PST RoundCandidates shortlisted in Paper-I will now appear for:• Physical Endurance Test (PET)• Physical Standard Test (PST)These will be conducted by the CAPFs, and schedules will be released soon on the official SSC website.Other Key Updates• 12 candidates’ results have been withheld due to administrative reasons.• Final answer keys and individual marks will be uploaded shortly.• Candidates are advised to regularly check ssc.gov.in for PET/PST admit cards and updates.

India’s industrial production grew 5.2 per cent in February, driven largely by an improvement in manufacturing output, according to official data released on Monday.Factory output, measured by the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), had expanded 2.7 per cent in February 2025, as per the official statement.Data released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) also showed that industrial growth for January 2026 has been revised upward to 5.1 per cent from the earlier provisional estimate of 4.8 per cent.The manufacturing sector, which forms the bulk of the index, recorded a growth of 6 per cent in February 2026, compared with 2.8 per cent in the year-ago period, supporting the overall expansion.Mining output growth improved marginally to 3.1 per cent from 1.6 per cent a year earlier, while power generation rose 2.3 per cent against a 3.6 per cent increase in February 2025.According to the official data, the IIP index stood at 159.0 in February 2026 compared to 151.1 in the corresponding month last year.Within manufacturing, 14 out of 23 industry groups recorded positive growth. Key contributors included “manufacture of basic metals” (13.2 per cent), “manufacture of motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers” (14.9 per cent), and “manufacture of machinery and equipment n.e.c.” (10.2 per cent).In use-based classification, infrastructure and construction goods, intermediate goods and capital goods emerged as the top contributors to growth. Capital goods output rose 12.5 per cent, while infrastructure/construction goods grew 11.2 per cent and intermediate goods by 7.7 per cent.Consumer durables output expanded 7.3 per cent, whereas consumer non-durables contracted 0.6 per cent during the month.During the April-February period of FY26, industrial production growth remained flat at 4.1 per cent compared to the same period last year.

US President Donald Trump’s remarks about potentially seizing Iran’s Kharg Island oil terminal have sharpened focus on the strategic and commercial stakes tied to one of the country’s most critical energy export hubs.Kharg Island, located in the Persian Gulf, serves as Iran’s primary offshore oil export terminal and handles the bulk of its crude shipments to global markets. Any disruption to operations at the facility would have immediate implications for global oil flows, particularly at a time when energy markets are already under strain due to ongoing conflict in the region and heightened risks to maritime trade routes.In an interview with Financial Times published early Monday, Trump had said, “Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t,” adding, “We have a lot of options.” The comments came alongside indications of continued US and Israeli military activity in the region, even as diplomatic channels showed early signs of movement.The geopolitical tensions have already translated into volatility in energy markets. Iran’s control over export infrastructure, combined with its influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint through which a significant share of global oil passes, has raised concerns among traders about potential supply disruptions. Brent crude prices have surged sharply in recent weeks, reflecting fears of a broader supply shock.Kharg Island’s significance lies in its export capacity and as a logistical anchor for Iran’s oil sector. Any escalation affecting the terminal could constrain exports, tighten global supply, and further elevate prices. At the same time, the feasibility of physically securing or controlling the island remains uncertain given its proximity to the Iranian mainland and its exposure to counterstrikes.Trump also suggested that a longer-term presence would be required if such an operation were pursued, saying it “would mean we had to be there for a while.” Analysts note that beyond military considerations, sustaining operations at a strategic asset like Kharg Island would involve securing shipping lanes, protecting infrastructure, and ensuring uninterrupted loading of crude tankers, all of which are critical to maintaining oil market stability.Roughly 15 miles off Iran’s coast, Kharg Island accounts for about 90 per cent of the country’s crude oil exports, making it a critical node in its energy infrastructure. The island’s deep waters enable large oil tankers to dock, allowing uninterrupted shipment of crude, much of which is bound for China. It also hosts freshwater resources that support thousands of residents and key facilities.Given its central role, any direct strike on Kharg Island could significantly disrupt Iran’s oil exports and tighten global supply. However, analysts note that any attempt to invade and hold the island would expose US forces to heightened risk, placing them closer to Iranian defences compared to the current aerial campaign.

US officials have also considered a blockade of the island as a potential pressure tactic to push Iran toward negotiations, signalling that Kharg could become a focal point in both military strategy and energy geopolitics.