Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan shocked fans with a bold celebration after scoring a fifty in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4s match in Dubai. He smashed a six to reach his half-century and then used his bat as a gun, pretending to fire shots. The act quickly spread on social media, adding tension to the already heated India vs Pakistan clash. Farhan scored 58 runs off 45 balls before being dismissed by Shivam Dube. Earlier, he attacked Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya during the powerplay. This is the second India-Pakistan meeting in the tournament, increasing rivalry. (PC: HT)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the launch of GST 2.0, calling it a “Bachat Utsav” or festival of savings. Starting September 22, the new Goods and Services Tax system will feature two rates, 5% and 18%, simplifying the structure. Nearly 99% of items earlier taxed at 12% will now move to the 5% slab, while most goods from the 28% slab will fall under 18%. Modi said the reforms will reduce household expenses and increase savings. Luxury and sin goods will still face a 40% cess. The government says this step strengthens “one nation, one tax.” (PC: India Today)

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said India must chart its own path to face global challenges, including tensions with the US over trade and H-1B visa rules. Speaking at a book launch in Delhi, he warned, “We can’t proceed blindly.” Bhagwat argued that the world has long followed a fragmented system based on self-interest, but India should rely on its “sanatana” philosophy, which leaves no one behind. Without naming US leaders, he recalled past talks where American interests dominated. He urged India to act quickly, fix “unfavourable currents,” and prepare for global shifts. (PC: HT)

In a high-voltage Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash in Dubai, Pakistan set India a target of 172 runs after scoring 171 for 5 in 20 overs. India won the toss and chose to field. Pakistan got early reprieves as India dropped four catches. Sahibzada Farhan scored a half-century, while Shivam Dube was India’s best bowler with two crucial wickets. Controversy continued as India captain Suryakumar Yadav avoided a handshake with Pakistan captain Salman Agha at the toss, repeating last week’s incident. The match now hinges on India’s response to the competitive total. (PC: NDTV)

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has criticised the H-1B visa program, calling it “broken” after US President Donald Trump raised the annual fee to $100,000 for high-skilled workers. Musk’s stance has shifted over time: he previously defended the system, saying it helped build companies like Tesla and SpaceX. However, he later called for reforms, suggesting higher minimum salaries and annual fees to make hiring foreign workers more expensive than domestic talent. The visa hike affects many Indian tech professionals. Musk’s statements came as his old tweets defending and attacking the program went viral, sparking debate on H-1B reforms. (PC: India Today)

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced formal recognition of a Palestinian state. He said the move is meant to support peace and keep the two-state solution alive. Australia and Canada also recognised Palestine, while Portugal may follow. Israel strongly opposed the step, calling it a “reward for terrorism.” Families of Israeli hostages also criticised the decision. Starmer insisted Hamas would have no role in a future Palestinian government. The UK said recognition is based on 1967 borders with land swaps. The war in Gaza continues, with heavy strikes, mass displacement, and growing international alarm. (PC: Downing Street)

In the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match at Dubai, India captain Suryakumar Yadav chose to bowl after winning the toss against Pakistan. He sparked controversy by avoiding a handshake with Pakistan captain Salman Agha, repeating his actions from last week’s group-stage clash. Even after the match, Team India did not shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts. The gesture came in the backdrop of rising tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. The move has reignited debate among fans and media, highlighting off-field drama alongside the cricketing contest. (PC: NDTV Sports)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the launch of GST Bachat Utsav starting day one of Navratri, coinciding with the rollout of GST 2.0 reforms. He stated that the reforms will benefit a broad cross-section including the poor, middle class, women, youth, and traders by increasing savings and simplifying access to goods. GST 2.0 reduces tax slabs from multiple rates to just 5% and 18% for most items—except luxury and sin goods. Daily essentials, new cars, and medical insurance premiums are expected to become cheaper. Combined with prior income tax exemptions, these reforms are projected to save Indians around ₹2.5 lakh crore collectively. (PC: NDTV)  

From Monday, September 22, prices of many daily items will fall after the new GST reforms. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a “GST bachat utsav”. Most goods will now attract 5% or 18% tax instead of the earlier four slabs. Essential items like medicines, ghee, butter, milk, ice cream, soap, toothpaste, and small electronics will be cheaper. Amul has already cut prices of over 700 products, including butter, paneer, cheese, ice cream, chocolates, and bakery items. Mother Dairy announced similar cuts. The move aims to boost consumption and make everyday products more affordable for citizens. (PC: HT)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to buy swadeshi, or indigenous products, in a bid to strengthen local manufacturing. In his televised address, he said, “Say it with pride, I buy swadeshi.” He added, “Often, we don’t even know if the comb in our pocket is made in India or abroad. We should buy products that are Made in India, crafted through the hard work of our country’s youth.” Modi linked the message to India’s freedom movement, saying, “The mantra of swadeshi gave strength to our freedom movement; today, it will empower our quest for prosperity.” He also promoted upcoming GST reforms as a “double bonanza” for consumers.  (PC: India Today)