TOI Exclusive

One important thing to understand is this: In the current compliance environment, tax notices are increasingly driven by data inconsistencies rather than intent. A tax notice can not only mean a process of explaining discrepancies but can also put any refund claims on hold till the matter is resolved.

A landslip at the Anakkampoyil-Kalladi-Meppadi tunnel site confirms environmentalists' fears. The incident occurred before tunnel boring began, highlighting terrain instability. Experts noted construction lapses failed to account for water pressure behind slope lining. Environmental groups stated the mishap validates concerns raised in court previously. The disaster underscores the need for rigorous geological assessments for such projects.

In the last six months, Ashok Sharma has caught everyone's attention with his raw pace. He shattered an 11-year-old Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy record by picking up 22 wickets for Rajasthan. He impressed everyone in the IPL with his pace for Gujarat Titans. A couple of weeks ago, he was picked for India A as an injury replacement, and now he has earned his maiden India call-up for the Zimbabwe tour, starting on July 23.

Few cricketers have witnessed the evolution of modern cricket quite like AB de Villiers. From the rise of T20 leagues to the changing aspirations of young cricketers, the South African legend has lived through the sport's biggest transition.

At just 19, equestrian Niharika Singhania has earned a place in India's show jumping team for the 2026 Asian Games, becoming its only woman rider. After overcoming qualification hurdles and switching horses weeks before the deadline, she is now driven by an unwavering bond with her horses and ambitions that stretch beyond Aichi-Nagoya.

Built on generations of trust and tolerance, the Gujarat lion story was touted as a conservation model worldwide. But now, with four people killed in attacks in over two weeks, the limits of human-lion coexistence are being tested

Central banks globally are raising concerns about the long-term viability of extensive AI investments. Historically, breakthrough technologies garner funding that exceeds mere financial benefits. Companies are pouring trillions into AI systems and sophisticated computing solutions. The BIS advocates for a careful approach, emphasizing the difference between innovation and assured future earnings. It's essential for regulators to scrutinize AI's financial frameworks and the associated systemic risks.

Economists say that the world’s fastest growing economy may even end up clocking a 7% GDP growth number this year. But, domestically a poor monsoon caused by El Nino is painting a grim picture for inflation. Is the worst really over for the Indian economy?

Vulnerable e-rickshaw batteries are being remotely disabled using Bluetooth apps. Government agencies have ordered app removals and initiated cybersecurity investigations. Experts state the issue lies in insecure battery system designs, not just specific applications. This vulnerability affects low-cost vehicles prioritizing affordability over digital security. The incidents highlight broader risks for connected transport systems and public safety.

On messaging apps, that question always answered itself: you were a phone number, and the number was you. Now WhatsApp is swapping numbers for usernames, a real privacy win with a catch every other platform already lives with. Instagram, X and Telegram let people pick a name instead of proving one, and drowned in impersonation, confusion and handles for sale. Messaging was the last place a name still meant something. There are a thousand Abhinavs. Soon you won't know which one is texting you.

South Africa all-rounder Wiaan Mulder believes the future belongs to specialists, saying the physical and technical demands of modern cricket make it increasingly difficult to excel across all three formats. In an exclusive interaction with TimesofIndia. com, the South African all-rounder discusses the evolution of T20 cricket, his reservations about the Impact Player rule, cricket's growth in the USA, and why SA20 has played a key role in the Proteas' recent success.

In a remarkable scientific breakthrough, University of Minnesota researchers unveiled SpudCell, a synthetic construct engineered from chemicals to replicate key life processes such as consumption, growth, genetic replication, and division. While it is not classified as living, this innovative achievement in synthetic biology represents a pivotal advancement, prompting exploration into the core principles of life and the prospective engineering of biological systems for diverse applications.

Desperate acts, from climbing mobile towers for love and release to dangerous road stunts for social media fame, are alarming authorities across India. Incidents in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and other states highlight individuals resorting to extreme measures for relationship disputes and attention, forcing significant police and rescue resource diversion. Authorities are urging counselling and stricter enforcement to curb this growing pattern of public risk-taking.

Joe Root now stands second on the all-time Test run charts with 14,114 runs, leaving him 1,807 short of Sachin Tendulkar's record. Plenty of batters have climbed into the conversation over the last decade before fading away. The difference this time isn't just the gap. It's where Root is in his career.

Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth has unveiled his "VIJAY" mantra, emphasizing Vigilance, Innovation, Jointness, Atmanirbharta, and Yodha First. This strategic direction aligns with the army's Decade of Transformation and Prime Minister Modi's "JAI" directive for integrated defence forces. The initiative aims to bolster capabilities through modernization and doctrinal shifts, preparing the army for future challenges in a rapidly evolving global security landscape.

Kerala's rooftop solar power generation has surged dramatically, overwhelming KSEB's grid and leading to increased bills for non-solar users. While government projects fueled this boom, infrastructure limitations and regulatory hurdles are slowing further adoption. KSEB faces financial strain due to the net metering policy, prompting calls for urgent infrastructure upgrades and alternative solutions like battery storage to manage the growing demand.

The Nato Ankara Summit marks a pivotal moment as the alliance shifts gears from US dependency towards a robust, European-led defence coalition. Motivated by an unpredictable America and an assertive Russia, Nato is emphasizing agility, industrial capabilities, and strong partnerships. This meeting will challenge Europe to strengthen its defense posture and readiness in response to the Ukraine crisis, which is vital for establishing a credible deterrent.

A growing number of Indians are turning to GLP-1 injections like Ozempic for rapid weight loss, primarily driven by wedding pressures and social media ideals. While these drugs are effective for obesity, medical professionals express concern over their cosmetic use, potential side effects, and the risk of counterfeit products. Experts warn against short-term use for quick results, emphasizing the need for medical supervision and a holistic approach to weight management.

India is embarking on a massive urban transformation, planning to build new cities around high-speed transit to accommodate a projected population surge in the National Capital Region. These "Namo Cities," part of Regional Plan-2041, will be developed as Transit-Oriented Developments, integrating housing, jobs, and services around Namo Bharat RRTS stations.

In India, engineering and medicine have long been the cornerstones of middle-class aspirations, symbolizing security and respect. Yet, the landscape is transforming. With the rise of AI and digital sectors, the job market now prizes flexibility and contemporary skills over old-fashioned degrees. Professions in AI, cybersecurity, and digital marketing are emerging as attractive, rewarding alternatives to traditional paths, proving that the definition of success has evolved.

In a remarkable display of tactical prowess, Israeli commandos executed Operation Thunderbolt under the cover of night at Entebbe Airport, successfully liberating over 100 hostages from terrorists. This high-stakes rescue unfolded after failed diplomatic negotiations, leading to a fierce debate over national sovereignty. The release of previously classified documents sheds light on the contentious discussions that paved the way for this audacious military intervention.

During the April-June quarter, exports saw a 15% growth in merchandise shipments and around 11% in services exports. Which sectors have contributed to exports growth? What role has the PLI scheme played and will trade deals help expedite growth? We decode:

Indian smartphone buyers are increasingly turning to financing as prices climb due to rising component and AI hardware costs. Nearly half of all smartphone sales in India are now financed, a significant jump from previous years. This trend, driven by brands making phones more affordable rather than cheaper, is reshaping consumer upgrade cycles and making premium devices accessible to a wider audience.

Ahead of the India Rising: Road to EWC Chess LAN Finals in Mumbai on Saturday, Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi spoke to TimesofIndia.com about his journey through the qualifiers, India's growing stature in world chess, and the evolving relationship between chess and esports. Reflecting on a near-elimination scare, Vidit backed India's dedicated EWC pathway and expressed his determination to secure a place at the Esports World Cup 2026 in Paris.