X-twitter Facebook Instagram Youtube Linkedin
At IndiaVerve, we go beyond the noise to bring you meaningful stories of change, resilience and progress—from India to the world stage. Our mission is to bring readers credible, wide-ranging coverage across politics, business, sports, culture, society and more.
At IndiaVerve, we go beyond the noise to bring you meaningful stories of change, resilience and progress—from India to the world stage. Our mission is to bring readers credible, wide-ranging coverage across politics, business, sports, culture, society and more.
X-twitter Facebook Instagram Youtube Linkedin

Day: January 25, 2026

India dominate New Zealand in 3rd T20 in Guwahati, clinch series

by

Guwahati: India extended their dominance over New Zealand with a crushing eight-wicket win in the third T20I at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, clinching the five-match series 3-0 with two games still to be played.

Chasing a target of 154, India made light work of the task, finishing the chase in just 10 overs. The innings began with a setback as Sanju Samson was dismissed on the very first ball, but the early blow had little impact on the hosts. Ishan Kishan responded in emphatic fashion, launching Matt Henry for a six, while Abhishek Sharma turned the contest into a one-sided affair.

Abhishek produced a breathtaking assault, hammering his way to India’s second-fastest T20I half-century in just 14 balls and remaining unbeaten on 68 off 20 deliveries. Kishan fell in the fourth over after a brisk 28 off 13 balls, but by then New Zealand’s bowlers were already under severe pressure. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav ensured there were no further hiccups, continuing his return to form with a fluent unbeaten 57 off 26 balls as India sealed victory with 10 overs to spare.

Earlier, Suryakumar won the toss and opted to bowl, with dew expected to play a role later in the evening. New Zealand’s innings got off to a shaky start as opener Devon Conway was dismissed for one, caught brilliantly by Hardik Pandya off Harshit Rana. Rachin Ravindra soon followed, mistiming a pull that Ravi Bishnoi judged superbly in the deep.

Jasprit Bumrah led India’s disciplined bowling effort, finishing with figures of 3 for 17 in four overs to restrict New Zealand to 153 for 9. Bishnoi, playing his first T20I in nearly a year, impressed with two wickets, while Hardik Pandya also picked up two and produced a stunning catch in the opening over.

Bumrah was named Player of the Match and reflected on his journey after the game. “I was keeping an eye when Rana and Hardik bowled. When I came on the ball was scuffed up. I’m happy as long as I can contribute. If I’m given the new ball I can do it, same for the death. Feels good to complete ten years. As a kid, I tried to play one game. Fighting pains, assumptions, opinions, aches etc was tough. It’s a feather in my cap. Journey continues,” he said.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav underlined the team’s intent and approach. “This is the brand of cricket we want to play. We know how to bat from 20 for 3. Top two three batters made my job easy. Bishnoi’s plans are clear. He knows his strong points. Good to have him in the side, good rest for Varun,” he said.

New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner admitted India had the edge with the ball. “Credit to India with ball. Powerplay wickets were key. Knew it’d be a scrap after putting up 150. It was a good wicket. Cutters held a lot, but credit to India’s bowlers. 180-190 wicket, to be fair,” he said.

With this emphatic win, India now lead the series 3-0, maintaining their unbeaten run and carrying strong momentum into the remaining two matches.

Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates education, sports projects in Sambalpur

by

Bhubaneswar: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday inaugurated a series of education, sports, and technology infrastructure projects at Sambalpur University and the Sambalpur University Institute of Information Technology (SUIIT).

The minister dedicated a new indoor badminton stadium and laid foundation stones for multiple projects related to sports facilities, student hostels, and advanced teaching infrastructure at SUIIT. These projects are being developed under the PM-USHA scheme and with support from the Odisha government’s higher education infrastructure development grants. Pradhan further said the initiatives would play a key role in the university’s overall academic and institutional growth.

Highlighting the importance of innovation, Pradhan announced the establishment of Odisha’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning laboratory at Sambalpur University with the State government’s support. He noted that AI and emerging technologies have become essential across all disciplines and will soon be relevant to students from humanities, sciences, and technical backgrounds alike, according to reports.

The Union minister stressed that Sambalpur, with institutions such as Sambalpur University, Gangadhar Meher University, Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology, IIM Sambalpur, and Odisha Open University, has the potential to emerge as a knowledge-driven economic hub. He called for coordinated efforts among these institutions to encourage students to move beyond job-seeking and develop an entrepreneurial mindset focused on wealth creation.

Referring to the university nearing its 60-year milestone, Pradhan underlined the need to build strong academic links between alumni and current students. He said the vision is to transform Sambalpur University into an innovative and entrepreneurship-oriented institution.

During the event, Pradhan also unveiled the official logo and jersey of the Hirakud International Half Marathon 2026, scheduled to be held on February 15 at Hirakud. In a post on X, he described the marathon as more than a sporting event, calling it a platform to promote fitness, tourism, and a healthy Odisha.

Jaishankar holds talks with US Congressional delegation on trade, security

by

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Sunday held talks with a three-member US Congressional delegation in New Delhi, focusing on key aspects of Indo–US relations, including trade, security, and emerging technologies.

The meeting was also attended by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, according to reports.

The meeting took place amid ongoing challenges in bilateral ties, even as both countries continue efforts to strengthen strategic cooperation.

The US delegation included Jimmy Patronis, Mike Rogers, and Adam Smith. Their visit comes at a time when India and the US are seeking progress in negotiations for a proposed bilateral trade agreement.

Jaishankar described the discussions as a “good interaction” in a post on X, highlighting the constructive nature of the engagement.

In a post on X, Gor also termed the meeting “productive,” saying the talks centred on deepening cooperation in security, trade, and critical technologies.

The discussions underscored the shared intent of both sides to move forward with a stronger and more balanced partnership despite existing strains.

Odia music composer Abhijit Majumdar passes away

by

Bhubaneswar: Eminent Odia music composer and singer Abhijit Majumdar passed away on Sunday at the age of 54, leaving the state’s music and film fraternity in deep shock.

Majumdar had been undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bhubaneswar for multiple health issues. Despite sustained medical care, his condition deteriorated over the past few days. His demise has been described as a significant loss to Odia music and cinema.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi confirmed the news through an official post on X and expressed condolences to the bereaved family.

In a post on X, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said he was heartbroken by the news of Majumdar’s passing.

Born in Cuttack, Majumdar began his musical journey in the early 1990s and went on to become one of the most influential composers in the Odia film industry. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he composed music for hundreds of songs in Odia and Sambalpuri films, albums, and independent projects, according to reports.

Known for blending contemporary sounds with local musical traditions, Majumdar played a key role in shaping modern Odia film music. Several of his compositions went on to become chartbusters and remain popular among audiences even today.

Political leaders, artists, and fans across Odisha took to social media to mourn his passing, remembering him not only for his musical talent but also for his contribution to promoting Odia culture through cinema and music.

Pattathon 3.0 draws over 5,000 women runners in Bhubaneswar

by

Bhubaneswar: Pattathon 3.0, the third edition of the women-centric mini marathon organised by KIIT and KISS under the Art of Giving movement, was held on Sunday with enthusiastic participation from more than 5,000 women from Bhubaneswar and neighbouring cities.

Conducted annually on the last Sunday of January, Pattathon promotes the message of “Education for All” while celebrating women’s strength and the country’s rich handloom heritage. In a distinctive sight, participants took part in the run wearing handloom sarees, symbolising dignity, self-reliance, and cultural pride.

The event underscored a broader vision of empowerment by linking education, women’s participation, and support for traditional livelihoods, according to reports. Organisers said Pattathon represents a holistic approach where learning, livelihood, and social responsibility go hand in hand.

Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation Mayor Sulochana Das, corporator Pritinanda Routray, noted athletes Anuradha Biswal and Dutee Chand, along with KIIT, KIMS, and KISS founder Dr Achyuta Samanta, were among those who participated in the run.

Launched in 2016 under the leadership of Dr Samanta, Pattathon has grown into a prominent annual initiative aimed at spreading awareness about inclusive education while highlighting the role of women in social transformation.

India, European Union set for major trade, defence breakthrough

by

New Delhi: India and the European Union are poised for a landmark reset in their relationship as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen begins a four-day visit to New Delhi ahead of the 16th India-EU Summit next week. The visit is expected to culminate in the announcement of a long-pending free trade agreement, alongside new frameworks on defence cooperation and mobility of skilled Indian professionals.

European Council President Antonio Costa will arrive in the national capital on Sunday, with both EU leaders set to attend India’s Republic Day celebrations on January 26 as chief guests. The summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled for January 27, at a time of heightened global uncertainty driven by shifting economic and security policies in the United States.

Union Minister Jitin Prasada received von der Leyen on her arrival on Saturday. Welcoming her, the External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on ‘X’ that the visit would “chart the next phase of the India-EU Strategic partnership,” underscoring the shared democratic values and growing convergence between the two sides.

The centrepiece of the summit is expected to be the conclusion of the long-negotiated India-EU free trade agreement. Negotiations, which began in 2007 and were revived in 2022, are now at their final stage. The deal is likely to open European markets further for Indian electronics, textiles and chemicals, while reducing tariffs on European automobiles, wines and spirits.

Both sides are also expected to firm up a strategic defence partnership pact and unveil a structured framework for the mobility of Indian professionals—areas seen as critical for deepening long-term engagement beyond trade.

The timing of the summit reflects a broader geopolitical recalibration. With traditional transatlantic certainties under strain, Brussels is accelerating efforts to diversify economic partnerships and reduce strategic dependencies. For India, closer integration with the 27-nation bloc aligns with its ambition to emerge as a central node in reconfigured global supply chains.

Trade has already surged in recent years. The European Union is India’s largest trading partner in goods, with bilateral trade in FY 2024–25 touching about $136 billion. India exported goods worth roughly $76 billion to the EU, while imports stood at around $60 billion.

If finalised, the free trade pact would mark one of the most consequential economic agreements for both sides in decades, anchoring a partnership that now extends from commerce and technology to defence, mobility and global governance.

ICC Replaces Bangladesh with Scotland for T20 World Cup

by

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has formally replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to send its team to India, citing security concerns.

In an email to its board members, the ICC stated that Bangladesh was “not agreeable to playing the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 per the match schedule with their matches in India,” and that the governing body was therefore proceeding with its earlier decision to bring in a replacement team.

According to an official statement, the ICC said it had reviewed the concerns raised by the BCB, commissioned independent security assessments, and shared detailed operational and safety plans covering both federal and state arrangements in India. The world body said these assessments found “no credible or verifiable security threat” to the Bangladesh team, officials, or supporters.

The ICC added that altering the tournament schedule so close to the start date, in the absence of a substantiated threat, would undermine the neutrality of the governing body and set an unhealthy precedent for future global events.

Following an emergency board meeting last week, the ICC gave Bangladesh a 24-hour window to confirm participation. With no confirmation received within the deadline, the council moved ahead in line with its governance framework to identify a replacement. Scotland, next in line through qualification pathways, will now take Bangladesh’s place in Group C, including matches originally scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai.

Cricket Scotland welcomed the development, describing it as a rare opportunity to compete on the global stage. In a statement, the board said its players had already begun preparations and would travel to India soon to acclimatise to local conditions.

Bangladesh’s stance has been driven by the government, with officials reiterating that the team would not travel to India. The BCB has accused the ICC of double standards, drawing parallels with past venue changes in international cricket. The board is understood to have explored the option of approaching the ICC’s Dispute Resolution Committee, though the scope for overturning a board-level decision remains uncertain.

Pakistan, which has been openly backing Bangladesh’s demand for a venue change, has now cast a shadow over its own participation in the T20 World Cup, with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi accusing the ICC of “double standards” and stating that the final decision will rest with the country’s government.

“Our stance [on World Cup participation] will be what the government of Pakistan instructs me,” he said. “The Prime Minister is not in Pakistan right now. When he returns, I’ll be able to give you our final decision. It’s the government’s decision. We obey them, not the ICC,” he was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Reports suggest the ICC has conveyed to other boards that a similar refusal to participate could invite severe consequences, underlining the body’s determination to preserve the integrity and predictability of its global tournaments.

With Scotland stepping in, the T20 World Cup will proceed as scheduled. For Bangladesh, however, the fallout extends beyond a single event, raising questions about its standing within the international cricket framework and the long-term implications of a high-profile withdrawal.

Table Tennis: Manush, Diya win WTT Contender Muscat mixed doubles

by

New Delhi: Indian table tennis players Manush Shah and Diya Chitale captured the mixed doubles title at the WTT Contender Muscat 2026, sealing a hard-fought five-game victory at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Oman on Friday.

The third-seeded Indian duo edged past China’s fourth seeds Huang Youzheng and Shi Xunyao 3–2 (11-5, 5-11, 11-5, 5-11, 13-11) in a gripping 37-minute final to clinch their second mixed doubles crown at a WTT Contender event, according to reports.

Ranked world No. 8, Manush and Diya had earlier won the WTT Contender Tunis title in April last year, defeating Japan’s Sora Matsushima and Miwa Harimoto in the final. Harimoto was part of Japan’s silver-medal-winning squad at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The Indian pair also claimed the WTT Feeder Beirut title in 2024 and became the first Indian duo to qualify for the WTT Finals last year.

Their Muscat triumph was built on resilience, highlighted by a dramatic comeback in the semi-finals, where they recovered from a two-game deficit to beat France’s Thibault Poret and Charlotte Lutz 3–2.

The title run began with a narrow win over China’s Chen Yuanyu and Han Feier in the round of 16, followed by a 3–1 quarter-final victory against Singapore’s Pang Koen and Zeng Jian.

WTT Contender tournaments offer valuable world ranking points and serve as stepping stones to higher-tier events such as WTT Champions and Grand Smash competitions.

Manush also impressed in the men’s doubles event alongside Manav Thakkar, with the Indian pair reaching the semi-finals before losing 3–2 to China’s Lin Shidong and Huang Youzheng.

Boeing Sukanya STEM Labs launched in Odisha

by

Bhubaneswar: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday inaugurated Boeing Sukanya Program STEM labs in government schools in Odisha, saying the labs are a crucial step in preparing our youth, especially our daughters—for these future opportunities

Speaking at the annual function “Jyotirgamaya” of the historic Chandrasekhar Behera (CSB) District School in Sambalpur on the occasion of National Girl Child Day, Pradhan said the initiative goes beyond being a conventional science laboratory and will serve as a powerful platform for nurturing scientific thinking and aspiration among girls. The labs set up in Sambalpur, Rairakhol, and Kuchinda districts are expected to benefit more than 3,000 students annually, with additional labs to be added.

The minister virtually inaugurated the Boeing Sukanya Programme STEM Labs at three locations – CSB District High School, Gaurachandra High School, Redhakhol, and Government High School, Kuchinda, according to an official statement. He said the launch marks the beginning of Odisha’s first Boeing STEM Lab, with Sambalpur selected for the initial phase.

According to Pradhan, the labs will offer hands-on learning in science and aerospace-related subjects, providing foundational exposure required for careers such as aviation and piloting. He said the initiative would help spark innovation and critical thinking, particularly among female students.

Highlighting future opportunities, the minister stated that India is expected to have nearly 15,000 aircraft in operation over the next decade, creating significant demand for pilots, engineers, and designers. He described the STEM labs as a milestone in strengthening technical education and preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Pradhan also cited the life of former President and renowned scientist A.P.J. Abdul Kalam as an example, stressing the importance of conceptual clarity and critical thinking. He emphasised teaching science and other subjects in the mother tongue to strengthen foundational learning.

The minister said the National Education Policy is being effectively implemented in Odisha and announced that new textbooks for Classes I to VIII will be introduced from the 2026–27 academic year. These textbooks will be based on the Odisha State Curriculum Framework.

He added that around 1.67 lakh teachers in the State are being trained in the new curriculum through AI-enabled programmes, with support from NCERT and IIT Madras. Pradhan also said efforts are underway to strengthen mother-tongue-based education up to Class V to ensure a strong learning foundation for children.

Launched in 2024, the Boeing Sukanya Programme is being implemented in partnership with the Learning Links Foundation, a Boeing Global Engagement nonprofit partner for education and skilling initiatives in India, with a focus on boosting women’s participation in the aviation sector through education, skill development and scholarship support.

With the launch of the Odisha facilities, a total of 32 Boeing Sukanya STEM labs are now operational across India, collectively reaching nearly 20,000 students every year.