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Government to hire 1,000 professionals to help exporters

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NEW DELHI: The government plans to hire 1,000 young professionals to work with businesses and exporters across the country to drive greater utilization of the benefits of free trade agreements and help India diversify its product basket and export markets.While recently implemented agreements such as those with Australia and the United Arab Emirates have seen high utilization of concessions, those with ASEAN, Japan and South Korea have seen relatively low utilization, which the government believes is partly due to poor drafting of the agreements.As Indian businesses focus more on the growing domestic market, the government hopes to use lower tariffs under the free trade agreement to further push goods out of the country, thereby boosting manufacturing.These professionals will carry out activities across India, interact with chambers of commerce and exporters, help them explore overseas markets and find potential exporters.

Perennial dark horse, really? Why world cricket keeps forgetting New Zealand’s World Cup pedigree

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T20 World Cup: Mitchell Santner's press conference ahead of IND vs NZ

New Delhi: Speaking on the Sticking to Cricket podcast, former England captain Michael Vaughan recently said: “Equaliatively, they (New Zealand) are probably the best team.”Vaughan is right.Since hosting the ODI World Cup in 1975, New Zealand has reached the semi-finals nine times and finished second twice. In the T20 format, the BlackCaps have reached the semi-finals five times and will play their second final on Sunday.

T20 World Cup: Mitchell Santner’s press conference ahead of IND vs NZ

However, despite such a solid record, they are still labeled as “dark horses”.New Zealand are perhaps the most condescending team in world cricket. In nearly every game preview, they are described as a “dark horse” or “a team that punches above its weight.”

Perennial dark horse?

In 2000, New Zealand won the ICC Knockout Trophy, which was later renamed the Champions Trophy. 21 years later, they defeated India again, this time in the final of the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC) in Southampton. They also reached consecutive ODI World Cup finals in 2015 and 2019, finishing runners-up despite not losing to England in both the regular season and the Super Over. They were also defeated twice by Australia in the 2009 Champions Trophy and 2021 T20 World Cup finals.

We are a very proud sporting nation. For a small country, we’re not only good at cricket. Whether it’s the Olympics, sailing, rugby or even football now, we’ve done pretty well. We take great pride in our athleticism

Rocky Ferguson | New Zealand fast bowler

Cricket is not the island nation’s number one sport. Not even the second most popular. They only have six first-class teams, but New Zealand has consistently produced competitive international teams.“I think that’s the New Zealand way. There’s an inherent confidence, even if it’s not always expressed out loud. But we’re confident in our abilities.” Lockie Ferguson told TimesofIndia.com during ILT20.“We’re a very proud sporting nation. For a small country, we’re not just doing well in cricket. Whether it’s the Olympics, sailing, rugby or even football now, we’re doing well. We take a lot of pride in our athleticism,” Ferguson added.

Web Conference - ICC Men's T20 World Cup India vs Sri Lanka 2026

New Zealand’s Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India vs Sri Lanka 2026 New Zealand Tennis match at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India on March 7, 2026. (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

Punching above their weight?

For the first time in recent years, New Zealand has reached the knockout stages of a global championship. Standing between them and the trophy are hosts India.When the 2026 T20 World Cup begins, New Zealand won’t even be in most people’s top four, let alone win the title. Now having beaten tournament favorites South Africa in the semi-finals, they will face defending champions India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

I don’t mind breaking a few hearts just to lift a trophy for once

Mitchell Santner | New Zealand captain

Interestingly, India has never beaten New Zealand in a T20 World Cup. New Zealand leads the game 3-0.India are well aware of the thorn in New Zealand’s tail, having lost to them in several major global events, including the two finals won by New Zealand and the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup in Manchester. Mitchell Santner made it clear in his pre-match press conference that they don’t mind breaking a billion hearts.“Everybody knows we might not be favorites. But we don’t mind,” he said.“I don’t mind breaking a few people’s hearts just to lift a trophy for once.”New Zealand won’t waste time complaining about conditions or making excuses. They face every challenge head-on with quiet confidence and unwavering focus. They go about their business with little fuss. They don’t have much hustle and bustle. That’s the New Zealand way. Always.

ICC Men's T20 WC Final_ IND vs NZ-Training.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner trains during the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup cricket final match between India and New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. (PTI Photo/Kunal Patil)

“It’s easy to say it’s just another game, but everyone knows it probably isn’t,” Santner said.“But your approach has to be the same. Whether it’s your preparation or the situation the day before a game. It always comes down to a few moments.“Especially in T20 cricket, if you can overwhelm the opponent or dominate in those moments. I think we saw that the other night.“It usually comes down to the defense at a certain stage. If you can be consistent in the way you approach the game but also recognize some of the moments where you might need to be more brutal, that’s important.“You don’t have to reinvent the wheel.

polling

Do you think New Zealand is indeed a “dark horse” in the global cricket tournament?

“You’re in a final and you’re facing another team that’s also playing good cricket. So it’s never easy.”

new zealand cricket

New Zealand players train for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup cricket final between India and New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. (PTI Photo/Kunal Patil)

New Zealand did not perform above their weight. This is their weight. The time has passed for pundits and fans alike to admit this, but even if they lose it, their credibility will only get stronger in the future.

U.S. intelligence warns Khamenei to step down, but regime change in Iran ‘unlikely’ – report

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U.S. intelligence warns Khamenei to step down, but regime change in Iran 'unlikely' - report

Coordinated U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran eliminate high-value Iranian targets Donald TrumpIn an epic act of rage, Tehran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed after the US president repeatedly called for “regime change” in the Islamic Republic. But whether this goal can be achieved now remains uncertain. A report in the Washington Post said a transition to regime change in Iran remains “unlikely.”Even a large-scale U.S. military strike against Iran is unlikely to topple the country’s entrenched military and clerical institutions, The Washington Post said, citing a classified report, casting doubt on expectations of regime change as Donald Trump’s administration signals a broader military campaign that officials say is “just beginning.”

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Three people familiar with the matter confirmed the report to The Washington Post, which casts doubt on President Donald Trump’s plan to “clean up” Iran’s leadership and install a new ruler of his choice.The intelligence assessment was completed about a week before the United States and Israel launched war on February 28. The assessment examines different scenarios, including limited operations targeting Iran’s leadership and broader attacks on the country’s leadership and institutions. In both cases, analysts have concluded that Iran’s system is likely to continue to function even if Khamenei is killed. They say Iran’s religious and military institutions have procedures in place to ensure continuity of power.The report also called the possibility of Iran’s fragmented opposition taking control “unlikely,” according to people familiar with the matter.The National Intelligence Council (NIC), which prepared the report, brought together experienced analysts from the U.S. intelligence community. Its report is intended to reflect the collective judgment of Washington’s 18 intelligence agencies.The CIA referred questions to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, which declined to comment. The White House also has not confirmed whether Trump was briefed on the assessment before approving military action. Since the war began, the conflict has expanded to include submarine activity in the Indian Ocean and a missile confrontation near NATO member Türkiye.“President Trump and the Administration have clearly outlined their goals with Operation Epic Fury: to destroy Iran’s ballistic missile and production capabilities, destroy their navy, end their ability to arm proxies, and prevent them from acquiring nuclear weapons,” White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said in a statement. “The Iranian regime is being completely destroyed.”Other major media outlets, including the New York Times, Reuters and the Wall Street Journal, also reported that U.S. intelligence agencies were skeptical that Iran’s opposition could quickly take power. However, NIC’s detailed analysis of the possible outcomes of different military offensives has not been previously reported.Suzanne Maloney, an Iran expert and associate president of the Brookings Institution, said the assessment reflected a deep understanding of Iran’s political system.“This sounds like an in-depth assessment of the Iranian system and the institutions and processes that have been put in place over the years,” she said.The intelligence report does not appear to examine other possible options, such as deploying U.S. ground forces in Iran or supporting Kurdish groups to spark an insurgency. It is unclear whether the large-scale operations discussed in the report are identical to military operations currently underway.Meanwhile, Iran’s succession appears to be unfolding, even as the country faces heavy air and sea strikes from the United States and Israel.The decision on Iran’s next supreme leader rests with the powerful Council of Experts, a senior clerical body. However, members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and other security officials also wield significant influence.There has been speculation that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader, may take over. But no official announcement has been made yet. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is pushing for his candidacy, according to a Western security official, although some senior figures, including Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, oppose the move.As the war enters its second week, Trump continues to demand Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” as he wrote in an article for The Truth Society. He also suggested that he should play a role in selecting Iran’s next leader.Trump told reporters that Khamenei was “incompetent” and a “lightweight” and said he did not want the leader to simply “rebuild” Iran’s nuclear and missile programs.“We hope they have a good leader. I think we have some guys that can do a good job,” he told NBC News.Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf rejected the idea of ​​Trump playing any role in choosing the country’s next leader.“The fate of dear Iran is more precious than life and will be decided solely by the proud Iranian nation and not by [Jeffrey] Epstein’s gang,” Ghalibaf wrote on X, referring to the late sex offender who once had close ties to Trump.Current and former U.S. officials say they have seen no signs of a large-scale uprising in Iran or serious divisions within the government or security forces that could lead to regime change. In the past, Iranian security forces have shown a willingness to forcefully suppress protests. Thousands of protesters were killed earlier this year during demonstrations over the country’s economic problems.So far, Trump’s message to the Iranian public has been to stay indoors until the U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign ends.Experts say that as long as Iran’s religious and military leadership remains intact, Trump will have limited influence over the country’s political future.“Surrendering to Trump would go against everything they stand for,” said Holly Dagres, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. “The upper echelons of the clergy are ideological, so their modus operandi is to resist U.S. imperialism.”If the Iranian government collapses, Trump may be able to influence events. But intelligence reports suggest the system remains robust.“There is no other force within Iran that can counter the remaining power that the regime has,” Maloney said. “Even if they can’t project that power very effectively to their neighbors, they can certainly dominate domestically.”

Uttar Pradesh: Rs 24-crore names missing from polls since SIR announcement

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The EC expects the revision work to be completed on time, paving the way for the release of the final electoral roll on April 10

LUCKNOW: The total number of registered voters in India’s most populous state UP is expected to cross Rs 13 crore, with a significant increase in new applications filed during the SIR electoral roll 2026.However, this figure is Rs 24 crore less than the figure when the SIR was announced on October 27, 2025. A total of 326 crore voters were issued verification notices during the SIR.

Bengal SIR row decoded: Why Mamata Banerjee launches Dharna against EC ahead of polls

The first notices were issued on January 14 and hearings began on January 21. “As of March 6, 100 per cent notices have been issued and 93.8 per cent (approximately Rs 306 crore) have been served. Hearings have been completed for 2.8 crore voters, accounting for 85.8 per cent of the cases, and the remaining hearings are scheduled to be concluded on March 27,” said the state’s governor, election officer (CEO) Navdeep Rinwa.The Electoral Commission expects the revision work to be completed on time, paving the way for the release of the final electoral roll on April 10.Providing details of the deletions, the CEO said that as of March 6, 44,952 names had been removed from the list. Of those, 27,118 deletions were due to voter migration, where voters registered in a new constituency and had their names removed from the previous constituency.Another 10,014 deletions were self-initiated via Form 7, while 7,820 deletions resulted from objections raised by others. Among them, 5,153 people were deleted from the list due to the death of voters, 1,728 people were deleted from the list due to transfer of residence, and 932 people were deleted from the list due to repeated registration.Rinwa added that 2,73,188 Form 7 applications were still awaiting processing at various stages of review and action.Form 8 for corrections, transfer of address within a constituency, replacement of voter ID card or marking of persons with disabilities also saw high participation. A total of 1.633 million Form 8 applications were submitted between January 6 and March 6. Calculated from October 27, 2025, the total number of Form 8 applications has increased to 2.255 million.

T20 World Cup 2026: Ahmedabad, the final and the ghosts of November 19 past

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T20 World Cup: Suryakumar Yadav’s press conference before IND vs NZ

India’s Suryakumar Yadav plays during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India vs Sri Lanka 2026 tennis match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India on March 7, 2026. (Photo by Prakash Singh/Getty Images)

TimesofIndia.com in Ahmedabad: In any final, the outcome depends largely on how the team responds to the pressure. With a heart rate above the normal range, even the best in the business can feel the heat of the occasion. Beyond that, there’s the subtext of playing at a venue that carries the ghosts of its World Cup past. There were nearly 100,000 spectators in the stands, painting the field blue, adding to the relaxed atmosphere and occasion.‘Pressure’ is a word often repeated when captaining the Indian team Suryakumar Yadav Addressing the media on the eve of the T20 World Cup final. Suriya was part of the XI that suffered a defeat at the hands of Australia in the ODI World Cup final on November 19, 2023. Pat Cummins, like most of his team-mates, will feel the eerie silence from the crowd when his side beat the hosts in the title race.

T20 World Cup: Suryakumar Yadav’s press conference before IND vs NZ

Silence and crowd noise were once again the focus of discussion ahead of Sunday’s final, but Surya chose to downplay the controversy. Acknowledging the challenge, pressure and excitement that comes with a final, his message to the team is simple: Be brave.“We have prepared well for this phase. It started two years ago and its journey is again to the same stadium where we left in 2023. Hope to play some good cricket and be brave in difficult situations. That is a simple message to the team,” Surya said.Easier said than done. While the group discusses embracing stress rather than just dealing with it, only tough cookies can stand the test of an occasion like this. Over the past few months, Surya has observed that giving teams the freedom to play rather than boxing them in with excessive communication works wonders. The captain knows that everyone requires a different approach, but whenever “they are released,” the success rate is extremely high.As a captain, with the unforgettable memory of “November gone,” the stakes may be higher for Surya, but he is seeing the bright side. The pressure and nerves are there, but so is the excitement and the special feeling of leading a team in a home final.“These guys didn’t let me talk much in the dressing room at all. These guys dictate their terms. So I saw that when they get free, they become a different character on the pitch. I noticed this when I started leading this team for 5-6 months. After that I understood that nothing would happen as a big brother or a father. They have to be alone. Nothing will happen if they stick to their ears. They have to be free and only then can they play their best. “As a leader, there will definitely be pressure on me. I’m not saying there won’t be pressure, I won’t be nervous because if I don’t have pressure, if I’m not nervous, then how am I going to get the best out of myself and the team. So there will definitely be extra pressure, but at the same time there will be a lot of excitement because you don’t get a chance to play in a World Cup final and that’s the same in India.” It’s a special feeling,” Surya said.For Surya the player and Surya the captain, this was his greatest moment under the sun. Countless IPL finals, titles and bilateral wins, not even the Asia Cup matter. What matters is how the team performs on the big night in Ahmedabad. When he walks out chewing gum at the Narendra Modi Stadium, it will all come down to how he handles the ‘P’ word and how he maintains clarity in decision-making while taking tough decisions in the middle of the batting and during his captaincy.

polling

Do you believe Suryakumar Yadav’s approach of giving freedom to players will lead to better performance?

He has coach Gautam Gambhir by his side and according to the skipper, he is likely to bat and the two together have a chance to create history. The only team to defend the T20 World Cup and win the T20 World Cup at home is just one win away, a victory that will also ensure Coach Gambhir’s second ICC title in as many attempts. Too many key firsts were separated by that great victory. The win will put Ahmedabad on the cricketing map and it was a memorable event in favor of the hosts, going some way to erasing the ghosts of November 19’s past.Will he go?? (Will it happen?)” Suriya asked Rohit at the Wankhede Stadium before the semi-final. The former captain had a reassuring response.“If we play well, it’s going to happen,” Surya said Saturday with a smile, the words coming from his former captain and the confidence he’s gained all season long.

Who is Kyle Long? Ohio man charged with 5 murders after claiming wife stabbed him 17 times

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Kyle Long from London, Ohiocharged with murder after claiming his wife Rachel, stabbed She herself has died 17 times. He claimed this happened after she told him she wanted to separate. He was charged after a four-month investigation, authorities said.

Kyle Long has been charged with murder after claiming his wife stabbed him. (X/@ScoopStateside)
Kyle Long has been charged with murder after claiming his wife stabbed him. (X/@ScoopStateside)

Long was arrested on October 23, 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about Kyle Long when he goes to trial.

Kyle Long: 5 things to know

  1. Kyle Long and Rachel Long live in a $500,000 home.
  2. Long is 35 and his wife is 32. The couple has two daughters: Ruby and Scarlet.
  3. Long claimed he witnessed Rachel stab herself in the face and neck. She was found lying in a pool of blood on the bathroom floor next to the toilet. She reportedly suffered what appeared to be stab wounds to her arms, hands, face and neck. Long was asked to remove his clothes so DNA evidence could be collected and asked questions about his wife’s death.
  4. During a second round of questioning, police discovered inconsistencies in Long’s version of events. Evidence also indicated “a fight occurred between two individuals,” according to police. They also found that Long couldn’t see his wife being stabbed from where he said he was seated. The autopsy on Rachel’s body also revealed defensive wounds, which provided a hole in Long’s “suicide” theory. Authorities found her with 17 stab wounds.
  5. Long is currently being held on a $1.5 million bond while the Madison County Sheriff’s Department investigates the matter. No pleas had been entered in the case as of Saturday.

Long’s wife, Rachel, runs her pet grooming Serve. Rachel’s obituary read “Born December 22, 1992 in Columbus; the daughter of Susan Weber and William Brown. Rachel is a 2011 graduate of London High School and owned and operated Pawfect Pups Grooming and Boarding in London. She has a love for animals at heart and is active in dog rescues. She is an avid reader and enjoys attending rock concerts.”

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The couple has been married for 10 years. Police spoke with Rachel’s friend Madison Myers, who Rachel was texting before her death. Police found no signs of suicidal thoughts in their exchanges because the two women were discussing attending the concert and Rachel needed an outfit. Her “best friend” Brittany Mattox Tell 4WWL said she had always doubted the theory of suicide.

“We know she is happy to be leaving. She is building new relationships and friendships and is looking forward to her new adventure as a single parent,” she said. One of Rachel’s customers, Melissa Cooper, Tell ABC6 “She loved helping people, and I loved that, and that’s what we’re missing right now, that’s the light that’s been lost on so many of us.”

‘Forgive us’: UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sends emotional message amid Iran, US-Israel war

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'Forgive us': UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sends emotional message amid Iran, US-Israel war
Iran-U.S.-Israel war rocks UAE, UAE president urges residents to forgive shortcomings

United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued a strong message of reassurance and solidarity after visiting those injured in recent regional tensions, urging residents to forgive any shortcomings while pledging that the country will defend itself and protect everyone living within its borders. The remarks, broadcast on Abu Dhabi television, were the president’s first public remarks since a series of missile and drone interceptions over the escalating conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States.The speech came as anxiety grew in the Gulf, with debris falling from aerial interceptions causing damage to parts of Dubai and killing at least one person. In his speech, the UAE leader emphasized the country’s resilience, saying the country was strong and determined in difficult times. He assured citizens and residents that the government will continue to fulfill its responsibility to defend the country and ensure public safety.

UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visits the injured

Before delivering his speech, Sheikh Mohammed visited patients injured in the recent incidents and currently receiving treatment at Sheikh Shahbut Medical City in Abu Dhabi. During the visit, he spoke with victims and medical staff, wished the injured a speedy recovery and expressed appreciation for the efforts of doctors and medical staff in responding to the crisis.Pictures released from the trip showed the president speaking directly to patients and offering words of encouragement to their families. The gesture was widely interpreted as a sign of solidarity at a time when residents across the country have been closely watching broader developments. middle East conflict.Officials said the visit reflects leadership’s commitment to supporting those affected and ensuring the country’s emergency response and health care systems are fully prepared.

UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan delivers message of resilience amid Iran-U.S.-Israel war

In a televised address, Sheikh Mohammed acknowledged that the current regional situation has created uncertainty and concern for the public. He urged people across the UAE to remain calm and united, and asked residents to forgive any shortcomings that may have occurred in the authorities’ handling of the situation. At the same time, he made clear that the country was ready to defend itself. “The UAE is strong and resilient,” he said, stressing that the country was “not easy prey” for those who threaten its security. The president stressed that the government’s responsibilities concern not only UAE citizens but also the millions of expatriates living and working in the country.“Our residents are part of our family,” he said, reiterating the UAE’s commitment to protecting everyone within its borders.

War between Iran and US-Israel raises tensions in Gulf region

The president’s remarks came during one of the most tumultuous periods in the Middle East in recent years. Crisis intensifies after U.S. Israeli attacks on Iranian targets prompted Iran to launch waves of missiles and drones across the region. Several Gulf states, including the United Arab Emirates, have activated their air defense systems to intercept incoming projectiles. While most threats have been successfully neutralized in the air, debris falling from interceptors has caused damage at multiple locations. In Dubai, debris hit a residential building in Dubai Marina and a car in Al Barsha, the latter killing a Pakistani driver. These incidents highlight the challenges of defending densely populated cities during aerial conflicts.

UAE’s defense and security response in Iran-US-Israel war

The UAE has deployed advanced air defense systems designed to detect and intercept missiles and drones before they reach densely populated areas. These systems rely on a network of radar tracking, interceptor missiles and coordinated military response units operating around the clock. Authorities say these defenses have successfully blocked the vast majority of incoming threats during the current crisis.Meanwhile, the government has issued public safety alerts and emergency messages advising residents to stay indoors temporarily during the interdiction operations. Officials say such precautions are necessary to minimize the risk when defense systems engage incoming shells.In addition to safety measures, the president’s message focused on unity and social cohesion. The UAE is home to more than 200 ethnic groups, making it one of the most diverse societies in the world. In times of regional instability, maintaining social stability and public confidence is particularly important.Sheikh Mohammed’s call for forgiveness and patience was widely interpreted as a plea for understanding as authorities grapple with a complex and evolving situation. Analysts said the message reflected a broader approach by the UAE leadership during the crisis that combined strong security assurances with an emphasis on solidarity among citizens and residents.

What comes next for the UAE during Iran-U.S.-Israel war

The president’s speech quickly spread across the UAE on television and social media, prompting expressions of support and appreciation from residents. Many praised the visits to injured patients and the comfort provided in televised addresses. Others stressed the importance of clear communication from leadership during a period of heightened regional tensions. For expats in particular, the president’s statement emphasizing that residents are “part of the family” resonated strongly, reinforcing the country’s longstanding message of inclusivity. While the UAE continues to monitor developments in the wider Middle East conflict, officials say the country remains fully prepared to deal with any threat.Security agencies, emergency services and healthcare providers are on high alert to ensure that the country can respond quickly to any incidents related to the regional situation. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts across the region remain ongoing, with international leaders calling for de-escalation to prevent further instability.For many residents, the president’s message was both reassuring and a reminder of the Gulf’s uncertain geopolitical environment. Ultimately, Sheikh Mohammed’s speech combined compassion with determination. By visiting the injured, acknowledging public concerns and pledging to defend the country, the UAE president sought to boost confidence at a time of rising regional tensions.

How an Army trailblazer inspired generations of female officers

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Lieutenant Colonel Veer Nali Randhawa

Chandigarh: Ravinder Jit Randhawa’s life was shattered on June 17, 1997 – her husband Major Sukhwinder Jeet Singh Randhawa (Kirti Chakra, posthumous) sacrificed his life while fighting terrorists in Kashmir. Just 15 months later, she graduated from the Officers Training Academy in Chennai as a lieutenant, wearing the same olive green suit as her husband.Lieutenant Colonel Randhawa (retd) became the first Veer Nari (war widow) in India to become an officer. She served for 24 years and continues to inspire women to join the military.On the eve of International Women’s Day, The Times of India spoke to her and another trailblazer, Major (Retd) Priya Jingan, who is proud to be Cadet No. 001. The two men rewrote the history of the armed forces. Their journey broke down barriers and opened doors for women to enter the military.

Lady Cadet 001 Major Jhingan

Keep your wordLieutenant Colonel Randhawa broke institutional barriers when he decided to join the Army after suffering a severe personal loss, which relaxed age and marital status restrictions: “After a loss like ours, the ground disappears from your feet. Being an officer gave me purpose.”She said her determination was strengthened by her Punjabi upbringing, a deep respect for soldiers and a desire to honor her husband’s legacy. “I draw a lot of strength from my mother.”She recalled how former Chief of Army Staff Vice President General Malik and his wife Dr Ranjana Malik played a key role in her donning olive green. It was not until she made a request to General Malik, who wrote to the government, that the army opened the door for Veer Naris. “indian armed forces Be the first person in the world to take such a step. It reflects the spirit of women’s representation and empowerment. “Her message to women: “Life can push you to unimaginable extremes. But if you believe in yourself, no challenge is insurmountable.”in letter and spiritMajor Jin An’s journey into the military began with a simple yet bold move. As a student, she wrote to then-Army Chief of Staff Gen. Sunis Francis Rodriguez, urging him to allow women to serve in the military.“In Class X, I saw an advertisement inviting young people to join the army. I realized that I fit all the boxes mentioned above except one: I was not a ‘young man’. “Her determination paid off. In 1992, Jhingan joined the first batch of 25 women officers of OTA, Chennai, and was awarded the honor of Lady Cadet 001. “For me, it’s never been about being first. It’s about making sure the doors are open for more young women who dream of wearing the uniform,” she said. “I’m not there to compete with men or prove that I’m better than men. I’m there to stand shoulder to shoulder with them and serve our country.

Nancy Guthrie Update: Another Tucson elder missing; Pima County issues emergency notice

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pima county The Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) has issued a new missing person alert for 75-year-old Michael Lowther. Meanwhile, investigators are still searching for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie, who disappeared more than a month ago.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department issued a missing person alert for 75-year-old Michael Lowther, while Nancy Guthrie's case remains unsolved, sparking concern. (AP Photo/Ty O'Neill) (AP)
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department issued a missing person alert for 75-year-old Michael Lowther, while Nancy Guthrie’s case remains unsolved, sparking concern. (AP Photo/Ty O’Neill) (AP)

Local officials have not said whether the two cases are related, but the timing raises concerns as the search remains unsolved after Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her home early on Feb. 1.

Read more: Nancy Guthrie case: Woman found dead by canal, police share update

Disappearance of Michael Lowther sparks concern

The disappearance of Michael Lowther has sparked new concerns about missing vulnerable adults. Tucson area, while Nancy’s investigation is ongoing and no suspects have been identified.

The elderly man was last seen riding an electric scooter near the La Cañada Drive and Magee Road areas of Tucson, according to a Sheriff’s Office alert shared on social media. Lowther is 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 200 pounds.

According to information provided by PCSD, Lowther was last seen traveling to Canada at 7:30 a.m. wearing jeans, sneakers and a gray hoodie. The hoodie says Arizona in white lettering.

After Lowther was reported missing, PCSD urged the public to contact 9-1-1 with any information about Lowther.

Read more: Nancy Guthrie: Did police receive a disturbing 911 call on the day she disappeared?

Nancy Guthrie’s case extends beyond Arizona

Meanwhile, the Guthrie case has spread beyond Arizona. Volunteer groups and Mexican activists reportedly began searching along the U.S.-Mexico border after receiving an anonymous tip that she may have been transported across the border.

However, no evidence has been found to support this theory, and reports received by the Mexican group have not been confirmed by the U.S. government. FBI or PCSD.

Authorities continue to analyze surveillance footage, digital data and forensic evidence collected from the scene. More than five weeks after Nancy Guthrie disappeared, investigators say they are still pursuing multiple leads but acknowledge the case remains unsolved.

Federal officials are reportedly investigating whether there is a connection between Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance and an internet outage her neighbors in Tucson, Arizona, noticed before she disappeared.

‘Right in the dark’: De Kock slams ICC as England leave but SA and WI remain in trouble

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'Right in the dark': Quinton de Kock slams ICC as England leave but SA, WI remain in trouble
Quinton de Kock in South Africa (ANI photo)

Quinton de Kock There are reports of criticism from the International Cricket Council england cricket team will be playing in the South African national cricket team and west indies cricket team After withdrawing from the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Several teams have had their travel plans affected due to international airspace restrictions related to conflicts between the United States, Israel and Iran. Therefore, many parties remain in India waiting for the charter flight arranged by the ICC. West Indies were eliminated on March 1 after losing to the Indian national cricket team at the Super Eight stage, while South Africa lost to the New Zealand national cricket team in the semi-finals. Thereafter, both teams remained in India pending travel arrangements. The Caribbean team have been in the country for about a week after being eliminated, while the Proteas have been waiting for three days. England, by contrast, were beaten by India in the second semi-final on Thursday but will travel home on Saturday, just two days after their exit. The situation prompted de Kock to question the apparent imbalance and suggest that certain teams may have a greater influence in international cricket.

quinton de kock’s insta story

quinton de kock’s insta story

“Funny @icc, we heard nothing! Meanwhile, England somehow left before us? @westindies and @proteasmencsa are just in the dark! Weird how different teams have more appeal than others,” Quinton de Kock wrote on Instagram Stories. It comes after former England captain Michael Vaughan raised similar concerns about the travel situation. He questioned why England were able to leave earlier even though other teams were stuck in India for longer.

Michael Vaughan Post

Michael Vaughan Post

“So England were eliminated on Thursday and chartered a flight home today.. West Indies were eliminated last Sunday and are still in Kolkata.. SA are in the same position.. This is where the powers that be go completely wrong.. All teams in this situation should be treated the same.. Just because you are stronger at the ICC table should not count.. #JustSaying,” he wrote on X. According to ESPNCricinfo, England are expected to depart on Saturday once charter flights organized by the ICC become available, while South Africa and West Indies may also depart on Sunday. Flights from England are scheduled to fly directly to London. Meanwhile, South Africa and West Indies will first travel to Johannesburg before the Caribbean side will continue on to Antigua. However, neither team has officially confirmed the specific time of their departure. The frustration within the West Indies camp was palpable. Head coach Darren Sammy posted ‘Day 6’ on X on Friday, highlighting how long the team has been stuck in Kolkata since their game against India at the Eden Gardens. Earlier in the tournament, the Zimbabwe national cricket team also faced travel delays after playing its final match against South Africa in New Delhi on March 1, eventually leaving India on March 4.