Times of India Digest
Daily News • Sunday, 25 January 2026
‘Spent $3.25 million hiring H-1B workers’: Texas university draws backlash over foreign hiring and claims of ‘importing labour’
Texas A&M faces criticism for spending over $3.25 million on H-1B visas for hundreds of foreign workers, including non-teaching roles. Critics question this amid tech job pressures, while supporters highlight the need for specialized talent to maintain research and operations. The university’s spending is compared to UT Dallas, fueling the debate.
Sweden unearths a 5,000-year-old dog buried with a dagger, hints at elite treatment
Archaeologists in Sweden unearthed a remarkably preserved Stone Age dog burial, approximately 5,000 years old, accompanied by a finely crafted bone dagger. Found in a wetland, the deliberate placement suggests the dog held significant value, possibly as a protector or hunting partner. This discovery offers insights into Stone Age human-animal bonds and potential ritualistic practices.
Indian‑origin doctor says her mother was ‘harassed’ by ICE agents in Texas: ‘Because she has an accent…’
In a chilling episode, an Indian-American physician recounted her aged mother’s harrowing run-in with ICE officers while shopping in a Texas mall. The agents suspiciously interrogated her about her heritage, mistakenly assuming she was a Spanish speaker, only to backtrack when she confirmed her citizenship.
Mizkif alleges bizarre incident involving Tectone and Emiru during ongoing feud
Twitch streamer Mizkif has shared an unverified, year-old allegation about Tectone visiting Emiru’s parents and claiming he’d be a good boyfriend, leading to parental confusion. This bizarre story, revealed after Mizkif’s breakup with Emiru, adds fuel to ongoing drama between Mizkif and Tectone, sparking fan debate and skepticism due to the lack of proof.
Inside China’s AI army: Drones learn to hunt and kill like nature’s predators
Lacari suspended by Twitch, permanently banned on Kick after serious on-stream violation
Popular streamer Lacari received a seven-day Twitch suspension and a permanent Kick ban after accidentally displaying links to illegal and sensitive material, including CSAM, during a live stream. Despite his apology and entry into a porn addiction recovery program, the incident highlights the severe consequences of on-stream mistakes and differing platform enforcement.
‘Wake-up call for America’: Obamas condemn killing of Alex Pretti, accuse Trump of assault on US values
IShowSpeed’s Africa tour moment turns tense after on-camera attack in Ivory Coast
Popular streamer IShowSpeed faced a frightening incident in Ivory Coast during his Africa tour. While attempting a local dance live on camera, an unknown man violently attacked him. Bodyguards quickly intervened, escorting the assailant away. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured, and the stream resumed, though the event sparked discussions on creator safety and crowd management.
How Alex Honnold climbed a 500-metre tower without safety gear — Inside his fearless brain
In a breathtaking display of audacity, adventurer Alex Honnold completed a pioneering free solo climb of Taipei 101, soaring 508 meters into the skyline without any safety gear. Fascinatingly, a neurological assessment indicated that his amygdala—the part of the brain responsible for fear—exhibits a significantly muted reaction to alarming stimuli, a stark contrast to the average person’s response.
‘Twitter-brained’: Megyn Kelly slammed online for sarcastic take on ICE shooting of Alex Pretti
Megyn Kelly sparked outrage with a sarcastic X post following the fatal shooting of Alex Jeffrey Pretti by ICE officers in Minneapolis. Her comments, suggesting ICE withdrawal and encouraging migrants to move to Minnesota, drew sharp criticism for being insensitive to the incident and ICE’s alleged brutalities, amplifying local concerns.
“Respect the rhythm of the wild”: Kenyan guide opens up on cultural clashes during IShowSpeed’s Maasai Mara visit
A Narok safari guide has revealed the behind-the-scenes chaos of hosting IShowSpeed during his viral Maasai Mara livestream. While the visit brought massive global attention and boosted interest in Kenyan tourism, the constant focus on entertaining a live audience clashed with the calm rhythm of the safari. Despite challenges, the exposure proved valuable for the local community.
Owens’ Allegations After Kirk Assassination: Claims of staff scrutiny; TPUSA yet to respond
Candace Owens claims she possesses an internal Zoom call involving Turning Point USA leadership held days after Charlie Kirk’s assassination. She alleges employees were encouraged to grieve but later faced loyalty questioning, unexpected terminations, and concerns about monitoring. Owens says she received a cease and desist letter, while TPUSA has not confirmed or denied the unverified claims, fueling online debate.
US man responds to his own wanted poster, ‘flirts’ with police online for days before surrendering
In 2018, Anthony Akers, wanted by Washington authorities, turned a routine Facebook wanted post into a week-long online exchange. Commenting on the department’s notices with apologies, excuses, and humor, he delayed surrendering while engaging the public. Nearly a week later, he finally turned himself in, sharing a selfie outside the station. The unusual thread combined deflection, dark humor, and accountability.
China’s top general accused of leaking nuclear secrets to US in exchange for official promotions: Report
China’s top general, Zhang Youxia, is reportedly under investigation for serious violations, including allegedly leaking nuclear weapons program details to the US and accepting bribes for promotions. The allegations surfaced during a military briefing, with authorities scrutinizing his abuse of authority and oversight of a procurement agency. This investigation highlights Beijing’s stringent anti-corruption stance.
Explained: The SNL joke about Usha Vance being JD Vance’s ‘beard’
Winter storm sweeps US: Over 800k lose power; 17 states declare emergencies
MAGA influencer weighs in on Indians ‘smell’ remarks after viral Japan video: ‘Every culture…’
Minneapolis shooting: FBI Director Kash Patel defends Border Patrol and Kristi Noem after Alex Pretti was shot dead
FBI Director Kash Patel defended border patrol tactics following the shooting death of Alex Pretti, stating individuals attacking law enforcement face repercussions. Patel questioned Pretti’s motives, highlighting the loaded firearm found on him. He deferred further investigation details to DHS and prosecutors, emphasizing trust in trained professionals.
An argument that ended in four deaths: What happened inside the Indian home in Georgia right before the massacre
A domestic dispute in Georgia, US, tragically ended with an Indian-origin man allegedly killing his wife and three relatives. The couple’s three children, who hid during the violence, alerted authorities. The suspect is now in custody facing multiple murder and cruelty charges. The victims have been identified, and the investigation is ongoing.