Ownership & classification
Founded: 1838
Ownership
The Times of India traces to The Bombay Times and Journal of Commerce, first published in 1838, and is the flagship daily of Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. (BCCL), the core of the privately held Times Group. BCCL is controlled by the Sahu Jain family, which holds roughly 86% through subsidiaries; the family acquired the company in the late 1940s/1950s after industrialist Ramkrishna Dalmia. In a 2023 split the print business (including ToI) came under Samir Jain while broadcast/radio went to his brother Vineet Jain.
Funding
Funded overwhelmingly by advertising (it is India's largest-circulation English daily), plus cover-price sales and digital subscriptions, and the diversified revenues of the family-owned Times Group conglomerate.
Affiliation & stance
The Times of India is a family-owned commercial enterprise with no party or state ownership; it is broadly centrist and is often described as commercially driven (its 'paid news'/'Medianet' practices have drawn criticism) rather than ideologically partisan. As a privately, commercially owned outlet free of party or government control, it is INDEPENDENT (matching the site's guess).
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 1551
82/100
Factual
75/100
Objective
2119
Articles
2053
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
KPSC 'scam' case ED raids IAS officer Gangwar's premises in Karnataka, UP
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at the premises of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar in Bengaluru and Bareilly, linking the action to a money laundering investigation related to alleged irregularities in a Veterinary Officers recruitment exam managed by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC). Gangwar, who previously served as Controller of Examinations at KPSC and was recently replaced, is now posted as Director-MSME in Karnataka. The ED alleges that middlemen demanded bribes between ₹70 lakh to ₹80 lakh per candidate and investigated claims of paper leaks, OMR tampering, and favoritism towards relatives of KPSC officials. While Gangwar was initially reported missing, Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge clarified that the officer was in Uttar Pradesh due to a family emergency and denied any connection between his absence and the ED actions. The probe includes searches at KPSC headquarters and other officials, with the state cabinet recommending the suspension of former KPSC chairman Shivashankarappa S Sahukar, despite a recent court order for his reinstatement.
‘600-630 of most potent type weapon’: Zelenskyy’s warning on Russian missile arsenal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia possesses between 600 to 630 high-speed ballistic missiles, which are among its most potent weapons. He stated that Russia aims to manufacture over 100 of these missiles monthly, potentially leading to an annual production of up to 1,300. This escalation poses a significant threat to Ukraine, especially as winter approaches and Russia plans increased attacks. Zelenskyy highlighted that while Ukraine has enhanced its capabilities to intercept Russian cruise missiles using systems like IRIS-T and Hawk, ballistic missiles remain a major challenge. He emphasized efforts to reduce the number of Russian ballistic missiles by improving defensive measures and securing additional air-defense systems from Western allies, including France and Germany. Zelenskyy also expressed concerns about a possible increase in Russian troop numbers following parliamentary elections in September.
‘Represented India in 3 nations’: Ex-envoy Navdeep Puri shares ordeal as Punjab SIR details ‘do not match’
Former Indian diplomat Navdeep Suri, who served as a foreign envoy in the UAE, Egypt, and Australia, encountered difficulties verifying his citizenship during Punjab's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. After submitting his voter ID and Aadhaar card, he was informed that his 2003 records did not match and was required to provide additional documentation, including a passport, to prove his Indian citizenship. Suri criticized the process, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals like himself, who have international experience, and questioned the implications for ordinary citizens. The Election Commission of India and relevant authorities have not yet commented on the issue. Meanwhile, AAP leader Somnath Bharti raised concerns about missing names in the electoral rolls, with reports indicating up to 2-3 million names might be removed during the revision. The SIR process in Punjab involves collecting and digitizing data from nearly 1.94 crore electors, with over 20 lakh categorized as absent, relocated, deceased, or duplicates.
'Could destroy Ukraine': Zelenskyy's big warning as calls grow for fresh elections
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that holding elections during the ongoing war with Russia could destabilize the country and potentially lead to its destruction. This follows a call by former defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov for Ukraine to organize elections despite the conflict, which challenges Zelenskyy's leadership. Zelenskyy emphasized that elections under current conditions pose significant risks, including fracturing the nation. The debate over elections has intensified amid a political crisis in Kyiv, following Zelenskyy's dismissal of Fedorov and subsequent criticisms of military leadership. Zelenskyy stated he would support elections if international allies could create safe and democratic conditions, but only 15% of Ukrainians currently favor holding elections before the war ends. The discussion occurs as Ukraine faces logistical and security challenges in organizing such elections, particularly considering the need for participation from soldiers, civilians in frontline areas, and those displaced abroad.
Texas sergeant accused of stalking coworker with Flock cameras avoids prosecution
A former Texas police sergeant, Michael Palitz, avoided criminal prosecution after being accused of using Flock Safety's license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras to stalk a female colleague. Palitz, a former sergeant with the Pasadena Police Department, surrendered his law-enforcement license as part of a deal with prosecutors. Internal investigations, supported by reports from the Houston Chronicle, FOX 26 Houston, and KPRC 2, revealed that the Flock system flagged his account due to excessive tracking of a specific vehicle. City officials initiated both administrative and criminal investigations, but no formal disciplinary action was taken in the administrative case. Prosecutors dropped criminal charges in exchange for Palitz relinquishing his credentials.
‘Vishwasghaat’: CJP to review Centre’s promises, hints at fresh nationwide protest
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has announced plans to review the Indian government's fulfillment of commitments made during negotiations that led to the end of its nationwide protest on July 25. The party claims the government has not yet communicated specific steps to implement these assurances and warns that any failure to do so could be considered a betrayal of the youth. The CJP has called for potential new protests if the commitments are not honored, citing past agreements such as the quashing of FIRs related to protests, protection for students, and compensation for affected families. The party also criticizes the government for not providing a list of FIRs to the Supreme Court, which had requested it multiple times. Fresh guidelines for Delhi Police emphasize restraint and accountability during protests, following recent allegations of excessive force.
How a bureaucrat has forced Maharashtra’s eateries and other food businesses to clean up their act
Tukaram Mundhe, the newly appointed Commissioner of Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has launched a stringent campaign against unhygienic food practices across the state. Since taking office in May, Mundhe has ordered increased surprise inspections and immediate suspension notices for severe violations, targeting both small businesses and major chains like Domino's and Pizza Hut. Legacy establishments such as K Rustom ice-cream parlors and Parsi Dairy have faced temporary license suspensions due to issues like fungal growth and pest infestations. Mundhe's actions have extended to quick-commerce warehouses of companies like Blinkit and Zepto, leading to shutdowns for unsanitary conditions. While the crackdown has garnered public praise and social media attention, including support from actor Paresh Rawal, many business owners argue that Mundhe bypasses standard procedures by issuing immediate penalties. The Bombay High Court recently criticized the FDA for overreach, fining a Pune sweet shop for failing to reinstate its license despite high compliance rates.
How Bangladesh's loss to Australia boosts India's WTC final hopes
Bangladesh's loss to Australia in the second Test in Mackay has improved India's chances of securing a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. With Bangladesh dropping from a points percentage of 66.67 to 55.56, India, currently fifth in the nine-team standings, can potentially move up to fourth by defeating Sri Lanka in the second Test in Colombo. Australia maintained their lead with 96 points and an 80% points percentage, while South Africa and New Zealand hold the next two spots. Bangladesh, despite the defeat, achieved a historic milestone by reaching No. 6 in the ICC Test rankings, their highest ever position. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto acknowledged the accomplishment and emphasized the importance of continued exposure to conditions like those in Australia.
'Didn't back him': Gill questioned after Kuldeep bowled just 25 overs in Galle
Mohammed Kaif, a former Indian cricketer, criticized captain Shubman Gill for not giving Kuldeep Yadav sufficient opportunities during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. Kuldeep bowled only 25 overs and took one wicket, while other spinners like Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja bowled more extensively and claimed more wickets. Kaif argued that Kuldeep, a rare wrist-spinner, requires extended spells to find his rhythm and correct errors. He emphasized that Gill's limited use of Kuldeep indicated a lack of trust in the player. Kaif also supported Ravi Shastri's view that Kuldeep is India's top spinner in overseas conditions and suggested that the team might consider debuting Saransh Jain, an all-rounder from Madhya Pradesh, in the upcoming Test in Colombo due to Sri Lanka's strong left-handed batters.
50 years on, California sanctuary's rare gibbons tell a survival story
The article discusses the history and operations of the Gibbon Conservation Center in California, established in 1976 by Alan Mootnick, a self-taught primatologist. The center protects around 40 gibbons from five species, many of which are critically endangered due to deforestation, habitat loss, and the illegal pet trade. Mootnick began the sanctuary after acquiring his first gibbon, Spanky, through a newspaper ad, eventually transforming a 10-acre property into a major research and conservation hub. After Mootnick's death in 2011, the center was led by director Gabi Skollar, who moved from Hungary to study under Mootnick and later took charge. The sanctuary focuses on maintaining genetic diversity through controlled breeding programs and collaborations with zoos. It has achieved success in breeding the Javan gibbon in captivity and plans to send northern white-cheeked gibbons to the Pittsburgh Zoo. Daily care includes specialized diets and hand-rearing orphaned infants, highlighting the individual personalities and behaviors of the gibbons.
CM Yogi predicts SP wipeout in next UP polls, says 'Babua' Akhilesh ignored the poor
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made strong political attacks against the Samajwadi Party (SP) during an event honoring mid-day meal cooks and distributing welfare benefits. He predicted the SP would be 'wiped out' in the next assembly elections, accusing the party of neglecting the poor and prioritizing the interests of a single family. Adityanath criticized SP leader Akhilesh Yadav, calling him 'Babua,' and questioned his claims of party unity, suggesting that having multiple family members as MPs indicated factionalism. He highlighted his government's welfare initiatives, including increased financial aid, medical benefits, and improved working conditions for school cooks, contrasting them with the SP's alleged failure to address poverty and insecurity. Adityanath also claimed his administration has reduced crime and riots, positioning himself as a leader focused on development and the welfare of the underprivileged.
15 months on, Jaish rebuilds Bahawalpur base hit by India during Op Sindoor
India Today reports that the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has fully reconstructed its Markaz Subhan Allah headquarters in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, which was heavily damaged during India's Operation Sindoor in May 2025. Exclusive visuals obtained by India Today TV show the facility has been restored with new materials, repaired domes, and refinished interiors, effectively hiding the damage from the Indian strikes. Intelligence sources indicate that Pakistan provided PKR 25 crore in funding for the repairs, with PKR 11 crore allocated specifically to the central hall. The reconstruction, which took 15 months, includes the rebuilding of adjacent structures like the Madrasa Al-Sabir and residential quarters. The facility, located near the International Border, was a key hub for JeM's operations, including recruitment and planning attacks such as the 2001 Parliament attack and the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing. The rebuilding comes despite JeM being designated a terrorist organization, and follows reports of fundraising efforts tied to the group.
BJP forms Gen Z outreach team: Nabin, Smriti and Vinod Tawde among key faces
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has established a specialized outreach team focused on engaging with Generation Z, naming prominent figures such as Nitin Nabin, Smriti Irani, and Vinod Tawde as key members. This initiative follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for closer interaction with young people in educational institutions. The program aims to address the concerns, aspirations, and expectations of young voters while providing opportunities for direct engagement with BJP leadership. In contrast, the opposition Congress is also increasing its efforts to connect with younger demographics, exemplified by Rahul Gandhi’s upcoming event in Pune. The BJP criticized this event, accusing the Congress of using social media influencers to attract crowds, though the Congress denied these claims. Additional details regarding the BJP’s outreach strategy, including schedules and formats, are anticipated to be released shortly.