Local Round-up: Shubman Gill's Historic Century to India's Operation Sindhu

From cricketing glory to conservation farewells, this week’s India Local Roundup brings you ten of the most significant developments across sports, education, environment, diplomacy, and governance. Whether it's Shubman Gill’s dream Test captaincy debut or IIT Delhi's QS 2026 feat—here’s everything you need to know.

Shubman Gill Equals Kohli’s Record with Century on Test Captaincy Debut

A new leader rises as Shubman Gill joins elite with century on test captaincy debut. On his Test captaincy debut, Shubman Gill struck a stunning century at Headingley, joining Virat Kohli in the rare club of Indian skippers to score a ton on debut. His poised innings anchored India on Day 1 against England, signalling a promising leadership era ahead.

Arrowhead, Ranthambore’s Fearless Tigress, Dies After Battle with Tumour

Arrowhead, Ranthambore’s iconic crocodile-hunting tigress, dies hours after cubs relocated. Ranthambore’s famed tigress, Arrowhead—known for her daring crocodile hunts—passed away from a tumour just hours after her cubs were relocated. Revered as the "Lady of the Lake," her death marks a poignant end to a legacy of fearlessness in India's wildlife conservation story.

54 Indian Institutions Make QS Rankings 2026, IIT Delhi Tops Nationally

India shines globally as 54 institutes make QS Rankings, IIT Delhi leads at 123rd. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, 54 Indian institutions earned spots, with IIT Delhi ranked highest among them at 123rd globally. This growing presence underlines India's expanding academic influence and signals progress in higher education and global competitiveness.

Powai Lake Overflows Early, Activists Raise Concerns Over Desilting

Early overflow of Mumbai’s Powai Lake sparks questions over BMC’s desilting efforts. Mumbai’s Powai Lake began overflowing ahead of the expected monsoon timeline, prompting environmental activists to question the efficacy of the BMC’s desilting operations. The incident raises pressing concerns about urban flood preparedness and ecological maintenance in India’s financial capital.

India Launches Operation Sindhu to Evacuate Nationals from Iran

India launches Operation Sindhu and successfully evacuates over 1,700 nationals from conflict-hit Iran. India launched Operation Sindhu to bring back 1,713 nationals from Iran amidst growing tensions. The operation is part of India’s strategic evacuations, reinforcing its readiness to protect citizens abroad and maintain global diplomatic responsiveness during geopolitical crises.

EC Reduces Polling Video, Photo Storage to 45 Days Amid Misuse Concerns

EC cuts polling visual data storage time to 45 days over ‘misuse’ worries. Citing increased instances of misuse, the Election Commission of India has cut the storage duration for polling day videos and photos from one year to 45 days. The move has sparked a wider debate on transparency versus data control in electoral processes.

Censor Board Directs PM Modi Quote in Aamir Khan’s ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’

CBFC asks filmmakers to add Modi quote in Aamir Khan’s ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ disclaimer. The Central Board of Film Certification has asked the makers of Aamir Khan’s upcoming film *Sitaare Zameen Par* to include a quote from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in its disclaimer. This directive has reignited discussions around political influence and artistic freedom in Indian cinema.

Air India Cuts 15% of Widebody International Flights for Stability

Air India slashes 15% of international flights to stabilise operations. Air India has reduced widebody international flights by 15% across 19 routes to “ensure operational stability.” The airline, in the middle of a major transformation post-privatisation, is balancing growth ambitions with operational consistency amid logistical and fleet challenges.

India and Canada Restore Diplomatic Ties, Agree to Reappoint High Commissioners

India, Canada rebuild diplomatic ties with mutual appointment of High Commissioners. After months of strained relations, India and Canada have agreed to reinstate their high commissioners, signalling a step toward stabilising diplomatic ties. The move comes amid international scrutiny and reflects an interest in bilateral cooperation on trade, diaspora, and security.

Karnataka Proposes 10-Hour Workday, Raises Concerns on Work-Life Balance

Karnataka’s 10-Hour workday proposal raises debate on labour rights and well-being. The Karnataka government has proposed an amendment to increase daily working hours from 9 to 10, and allow extended overtime. Critics argue this could hamper work-life balance, while supporters frame it as a boost for industrial productivity amid changing labour market demands.