Business

Gold Surges to Historic High, Crosses $5,000 an Ounce for the First Time


Gold has reached an unprecedented milestone, hitting $5,000 per ounce for the first time in history, underscoring its status as the world’s most trusted safe-haven asset. The surge represents almost a 100% rise compared to prices at the beginning of 2025, reflecting heightened global uncertainty and shifting investor sentiment.

Market analysts attribute the rally to a combination of factors, including geopolitical tensions, persistent inflationary pressures, currency volatility, and strong central bank purchases. Investors worldwide have increasingly turned to gold as a hedge against economic instability and weakening fiat currencies.

The dramatic rise has also reignited interest in physical gold, ETFs, and long-term commodity investments, while prompting debates about sustainability and future corrections. Jewellery markets and bullion traders are expected to feel the impact as prices remain elevated.

As global economies navigate uncertain growth paths, gold’s historic climb reinforces its enduring appeal as a store of value in times of financial turbulence.

Travel

Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan to Open for Public from February 3


The Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan, one of India’s most iconic and meticulously maintained gardens, will open for public viewing from February 3 to March 31, offering visitors a chance to experience its seasonal floral splendour.

The garden will be open six days a week, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with the last entry permitted at 5:15 pm. Visitors should note that the garden will remain closed on Mondays for regular maintenance. Additionally, Amrit Udyan will be closed on March 4 on account of Holi.

Entry to the garden is free of cost, making it accessible to all citizens and tourists alike. Visitors can explore a wide variety of landscaped lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and artistic horticultural designs that reflect India’s botanical diversity and heritage.

Formerly known as the Mughal Gardens, Amrit Udyan is a major attraction during the spring season and draws thousands of visitors every year. The opening period allows people to witness the gardens at their peak bloom while enjoying a serene experience within the Presidential Estate.

Visitors are advised to plan their visit in advance and adhere to entry guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

rip

Cricket Pioneer Inderjit Singh Bindra Passes Away at 84


Indian cricket has lost one of its most influential architects with the passing of Inderjit Singh Bindra, former President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and a towering figure in cricket administration. Bindra passed away on Sunday evening at his New Delhi residence following a prolonged illness. He was 84.

Widely regarded as a visionary administrator, Bindra played a pivotal role in shaping the modern era of Indian cricket. Working closely with former BCCI President Jagmohan Dalmiya, he was instrumental in bringing the 1987 and 1996 ICC Cricket World Cups to the Indian subcontinent—milestones that firmly established India as a global cricketing powerhouse.

Bindra was also a key force behind breaking long-standing broadcasting monopolies, a move that significantly enhanced the commercial value of Indian cricket and expanded its global reach. His progressive outlook helped lay the foundation for the financial and administrative strength that Indian cricket enjoys today.

As President of the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), Bindra oversaw the construction of the iconic Mohali cricket stadium, now officially named the Inderjit Singh Bindra Punjab Cricket Association Stadium in his honour. The venue remains one of India’s most prominent cricket grounds and a lasting symbol of his contribution to the sport.

Tributes poured in from across the cricketing fraternity. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh, veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle, and several current and former administrators remembered Bindra as a father figure whose integrity, foresight, and administrative acumen helped fuel Indian cricket’s meteoric rise. The BCCI, Punjab Cricket Association, and Punjab Kings franchise also expressed their condolences, acknowledging his enduring impact on the game.

Inderjit Singh Bindra’s legacy extends beyond titles and infrastructure—he is remembered as a man who believed in cricket as a force for unity, professionalism, and national pride. His contributions will continue to shape Indian cricket for generations to come.

Sports

Owen Coyle Returns to Jamshedpur FC as Head Coach for ISL 2025–26


Jamshedpur FC have announced the return of Owen Coyle as Head Coach ahead of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025–26 season, marking a homecoming that has already ignited excitement among fans. The Scottish coach has signed a two-year contract, with trusted assistant Sandy Stewart joining him as part of the coaching setup.

Coyle’s return evokes memories of one of the most successful phases in the club’s history. During his previous stint, he led Jamshedpur FC to the 2021–22 ISL League Winners’ Shield, transforming the team from mid-table contenders into consistent title challengers through disciplined tactics and an attacking mindset.

The appointment follows the departure of Khalid Jamil, who guided Jamshedpur FC to a fifth-place finish last season before moving on to take charge of the India national football team. With the club keen to build on that momentum, Coyle’s familiarity with the squad culture and expectations made him a natural choice.

Confirming the appointment, Mukul Choudhari, CEO of Jamshedpur FC, described the move as a “natural fit,” citing Coyle’s proven track record, understanding of Indian football, and strong connection with the club’s supporters.

Fans have responded enthusiastically, with the club teasing the announcement on social media using the tagline “The Legend Returns”, a nod to Coyle’s lasting legacy in Jamshedpur. With the ISL season kicking off on February 14, expectations are high as the Red Miners aim not just for playoff qualification, but potentially another title push.

As preparations begin under familiar leadership, Jamshedpur FC will hope that Owen Coyle can once again instill belief, consistency, and silverware ambitions into the squad.

Sports

Goa to Host Two Qualifying Rounds of Red Bull Four 2 Score Season 4


Goa is set to once again become a hotspot for grassroots football as it hosts two qualifying rounds of Red Bull Four 2 Score Season 4, one of the world’s most unique and high-intensity small-format football tournaments. With separate qualifiers scheduled in North and South Goa, a total of 96 teams from across the state will compete for coveted spots in the national finals later this year.

The North Goa qualifiers will take place at Play Goa, while South Goa will host matches at The Base. Both rounds are scheduled over January 24 and 25, with matches running from 9 am to 4 pm at each venue. Each qualifier will feature 48 teams, highlighting Goa’s deep-rooted football culture beyond professional leagues.

Red Bull Four 2 Score is known for its fast-paced and action-packed format. Matches are played four-a-side, without goalkeepers, on compact fields, and last 10 minutes. Adding to the drama, goals scored in the opening and closing 60 seconds count double, ensuring relentless attacking play from start to finish.

The tournament is open to players aged 16 to 35, with teams allowed a maximum of five players, including one substitute. Participation is inclusive across genders, and matches can be played on turf, grass, or hard courts—underscoring the tournament’s accessibility-first approach.

Winning teams from city qualifiers across India will advance to the national finals in Coimbatore, scheduled for the end of March. Ten city champions will compete in a group-plus-knockout format, with the winners earning the title of Red Bull Four 2 Score India Champions.

In the event of a draw, matches are decided through a golden goal showdown, where one player from each team goes head-to-head until a goal is scored. Any denial of a clear goal-scoring opportunity during this phase results in an automatic win for the opposition, adding immense pressure and excitement.

The national champions will earn the chance to represent India at the Red Bull Four 2 Score World Final in Toronto, Canada, set to take place after the FIFA 2026 World Cup. Last season, Goa-based team Boom Boom Goa represented India at the World Finals in Salzburg—and will once again be among the teams to watch during the Goa qualifiers.