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Ex IAS Trainee Officer Puja Khedkar Denied Pre-Arrest Bail In UPSC Case 23 Dec 2024, 9:22 am

The Delhi High Court has denied anticipatory bail to former IAS trainee officer Puja Khedkar, who made headlines in June and August amid claims she lied about physical and mental disabilities, and changed her name and surname, as well as forging an OBC certificate, to clear the exam.

The court said her intensions, prima facie, were to dupe authorities and observed "her steps (were) part of a larger conspiracy. Ms Khedkar, it was also observed, is "unfit for appointment".

The charges against her, which include forgery and cheating, are a "classic example of fraud committed not only an authority but also the nation at large", the court said Monday afternoon.

The High Court had reserved its order last month.

From pooping logs to naked santas: Bizarre Christmas traditions around the world 23 Dec 2024, 9:19 am

"No Chief Minister Face, No Agenda": Arvind Kejriwal Counters BJP Attack 23 Dec 2024, 9:18 am

The BJP does not have any vision for Delhi and its sole agenda is to abuse Arvind Kejriwal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader said today. "The BJP neither has an agenda nor a Chief Minister face for this election. BJP knows only one thing: how to abuse Kejriwal," the AAP national convener said as the party started doorstep registrations for the Mahila Samman Yojana with an eye on Assembly polls due in February.

The BJP, on the other hand, came out with an aarop patra (allegation list) against the AAP government in the national capital. BJP MP and former Union Minister Anurag Thakur said Delhi's government is the most inefficient in the country. "They (AAP) said free water for all, today people pay thousands to tankers. They said they will make Delhi pollution-free, see the AQI for yourself. They said corruption-free, ministers have gone behind bars," Mr Thakur said.

Targeting the AAP government on the pollution in Yamuna, Mr Thakur said, "My Purvanchali brothers and sisters who celebrate Chhath, Kejriwal's government made Yamuna so polluted they we cannot even celebrate our festival there. Kejriwal ji you said you will take a dip, 2025 is here, it's time."

The BJP also slammed AAP on the issue of women's safety. "Why weren't you able to use Nirbhaya fund? What happened to those fast -track courts you were going to set up?" Mr Thakur asked.

Law enforcement has been a contentious issue between Delhi's AAP government and the Centre. Delhi Police reports to the Union Home Ministry and the ruling AAP has repeatedly sought its control and criticised the Centre for crimes in the national capital.

"I am asking them, all seven MPs in Delhi are from BJP, why are you not taking care of law enforcement. It's deteriorating day by day," Mr Kejriwal said today, countering the BJP's attack.

Responding to the BJP's 'chargesheet', AAP MP Sanjay Singh said, "Delhi citizens know us better. Bharatiya Jhoota Party's politics is based on lies."

Mr Kejriwal and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi today launched doorstep registration for Mahila Samman Yojana and the Sanjivani medical insurance scheme. "Under Mahila Samman Yojana, every woman who registers will get Rs 2,100 every month. And those over 60 who register for Sanjivani Yojana, the government will bear cost for their treatment," he said.

Assembly polls in Delhi are due in February and the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP is pushing for a third consecutive term. Mr Kejriwal stepped down as Chief Minister after he was granted bail in a corruption case. He has said he would return to the top office only after the "people's verdict in this election. The BJP, meanwhile, is going all out to turn the tables on AAP and ensure its defeat.

South Africa Great Calls Rohit 'Unfit', Takes Brutal Swipe At India Skipper 23 Dec 2024, 9:12 am

India captain Rohit Sharma's fitness remains a hot topic of debate amid his lean patch with the bat in Test cricket. Recently, former South African cricketer Daryll Cullinan had taken a swipe at Rohit's fitness, calling him "overweight" and unfit for the rigours of a five-match Test series. Cullinan had labelled Rohit a "flat track bully" and even called him a liability to the team. Now, Cullinan's compatriot Herschelle Gibbs has reacted to his comments on the Indian skipper.

Gibbs, a former teammate of Rohit at Mumbai Indians and Deccan Chargers (now defunct), has echoed Cullinan's sentiments, saying that everything is visible on TV and doesn't need to mention any names.

"I don't need to mention any names. You can see everything on TV. Those guys that are unfit and carrying a little bit extra, I mean, the whole world is there to see. I think it's up to the individual. I was only a batter. Rohit doesn't bowl. It's up to the individual for me with regards to how much they want to contribute, not only in their own specific skill. If you're a bowler or a batter, your duty is still to be fit and to try and make a contribution in the field," Gibbs told InsideSport.

Gibbs also suggested that it's up to the players to figure out how they want to contribute to the team.

"Those guys that are unfit and carrying a little bit extra, I mean, the whole world is there to see. I don't need to mention any names. The mindset should be, especially with a lot of T20 cricket and obviously with the Champions Trophy coming up, how much you want to contribute and make a difference for your team," he added.

Rohit's form has hit an all-time low in 2014, with the star batter managing just 152 runs in his last 13 Test innings at an average of 11.69.

With the five-match series against Australia tied at 1-1, Rohit has the chance to silence his critics in the remaining two matches in Melbourne and Sydney, respectively.

Monali Thakur Walks Out Of Varanasi Concert, BLASTS Event Organizers Over Mismanagement | VIDEO 23 Dec 2024, 9:11 am

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YouTuber Zara Dar Quits PhD To Become Adult Content Creator 23 Dec 2024, 8:48 am

YouTuber Zara Dar, a former advocate for women in science and technology, has quit her PhD pursuit to become an OnlyFans model. In a YouTube video titled "PhD dropout to OnlyFans model," Ms Dar explained her decision, stating that while it was a difficult choice, she's not particularly sad. She described her move to OnlyFans as a career switch and a gamble on her future.

"Moving on to doing OnlyFans and content creation full-time it's not just a career choice it feels kind of like a gamble on the direction of my entire life," Ms Dar said. 

Ms Dar has over 1 lakh subscribers on YouTube, her previous videos included tutorials on machine learning and neural networks. 

Ms Dar, while considering a future in academia, ultimately decided to leave her PhD program. She weighed the potential benefits of a polished career in academia with the alternative path of becoming a professor and mentoring students. However, the tradeoffs associated with this lifestyle ultimately influenced her decision to pursue a different path.

"People whose lifestyles I thought I envied are tied to someone else's vision. They'll spend their lives working for a company and doing things they don't necessarily enjoy," she said, adding that these people would never get the recognition they deserve.

"Their work might win someone else's wealth and fame while they stay in the background," she said. "Expendable, they will constantly worry about getting laid off and planning their lives around their salaries, budgeting to pay bills and likely renting a place to live," predicted Ms Dar, who pursued a master's in computer science at the University of Texas.

Ms Dar shared that she had envisioned a different life for herself- one unbound by "the expectations of an academic institution or the constraints of a corporate office."  

By opting out of a career in academia or the tech industry, she explained that she could focus on exploring and learning about topics that genuinely interested her, rather than being limited to subjects deemed important by funding agencies.  

"I've made $1 million," she revealed, emphasizing the financial side of her decision.  

In her video, Ms Dar explained that she started creating content on OnlyFans as a side project while pursuing her PhD. Through this venture, she earned $1 million, which she used to pay off her family's mortgage and buy herself a car.  

"Thankfully, I avoided taking out any student loans. Now, I have an investment portfolio and am planning to buy my own house. These accomplishments are a testament to the tangible rewards of carving my own path and the freedom it has brought me," she said.  

She concluded her video by highlighting that most professors in the U.S. earn around $100,000 annually and often spend more time writing grant proposals than conducting actual research- a lifestyle she felt wasn't aligned with her vision for herself.  

Varun Dhawan Says 'Dad Guilt' Eats Him Up As Wife 'Single-Handedly' Cares For Baby: 'Am I That Family Guy?' 23 Dec 2024, 8:46 am

Deepfake Video Of Sudha Murty Endorsing A Trading Platform Is Viral 23 Dec 2024, 8:42 am

Claim: The video shows Sudha Murty promoting a trading platform.
Fact: The claim is false. The video has been digitally manipulated and is a deepfake.

In recent years, online trading, especially in cryptocurrencies, has gained immense popularity in India, attracting millions of users with promises of quick profits.

In this context, a video allegedly showing Sudha Murty-celebrated author and philanthropist-endorsing a trading platform is viral on social media. A Facebook user shared a video in which she appears to praise the platform and encourage viewers to join, promising significant financial returns.

Fact Check

NewsMeter found that the claim is false. The video featuring Sudha Murty endorsing online trading is a deepfake.

In the video, Sudha Murty appears to discuss financial investments, with her lip movements matching the audio.

A reverse image search led us to a video uploaded on the Infosys YouTube channel titled 'Listen to Sudha Murty as Infosys commemorates four decades of excellence', published on December 27, 2022.

In the video, Sudha Murty reflects on Infosys' 40-year journey, sharing personal stories about her faith in her husband, NR Narayana Murthy, and the pivotal moments that led to Infosys' success. She also discusses the founding and work of the Infosys Foundation, highlighting its contributions and values.

NewsMeter also ran the viral video through several advanced AI detection tools, which confirmed that the video was generated by AI (Artificial Intelligence). Hive Moderation declared that 99 per cent of the content was manipulated. TrueMedia also provided evidence of substantial manipulation. Furthermore, Deepware flagged the video as suspicious during its scan, providing additional confirmation of its artificial origin.

Hence, we conclude that the claim is false.

The video showing Sudha Murty endorsing a trading platform is a deepfake.

Claim Review: The video shows Sudha Murty promoting a trading platform.
Claimed By: Social Media User
Claim Reviewed By: NewsMeter
Claim Source: Facebook
Claim Fact Check: False
Fact: The claim is false. The video has been digitally manipulated and is a deepfake.

(This story was originally published by NewsMeter, and republished by NDTV as part of the Shakti Collective)

Who Is Asma Al-Assad, Syrian First Lady Seeking Divorce 23 Dec 2024, 8:38 am

In December 2010 and the following months, demonstrations against corruption, poverty and political repression took Egypt, Libya, Yemen, and Syria by storm. Around the same time in 2011, Vogue magazine published a profile on Asma al-Assad, the wife of then-Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. It was titled "A Rose in the Desert," and in the words of Joan Juliet Buck, the writer, Asma was “the freshest and most magnetic of first ladies”.

Cut to 2024, the Assad dynasty has fallen. Asma, once the "rose" of what was a brutal presidency overseeing the killings of 580,000 people -- nearly half of them civilians -- has filed for a divorce. Ms Buck, in her recent writing, described her as "first lady of hell".

Reports from Turkish and Arab media suggest that she has been living in Moscow with her husband and their three children. Asma has sought special permission from Russian authorities to leave the country and return to the United Kingdom.

Asma, who holds British citizenship, has been declared by UK officials as “no longer welcome” in the country citing sanctions imposed in 2012 due to her ties to her husband's regime. Her reputation deteriorated for standing by Bashar during Syria's civil war, drawing accusations of war profiteering and benefiting from foreign aid through her charity.

Who is Asma al-Assad?

Asma Akhras (as she was known before marriage) was born on August 11, 1975, in London to Syrian parents from Homs. She holds dual British-Syrian citizenship.

She attended Twyford Church of England High School and Queen's College in London. She graduated from King's College London in 1996 with a degree in computer science and French literature.

She worked as an analyst at Deutsche Bank and later at J.P. Morgan.

As Syria's First Lady, she was known for promoting women's rights and social development initiatives, including the Syria Trust for Development. These efforts, however, ceased with the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011.

Asma faced EU sanctions prohibiting financial assistance and restricting travel due to her ties to the Assad regime. She was also the subject of a UK inquiry into war crimes, including allegations of supporting torture and chemical weapon use. She was facing potential terrorism charges.

The 48-year-old is a cancer survivor and was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia in May. She previously battled breast cancer in 2018 and underwent chemotherapy in Syria.

How did Asma and Bashar al-Assad meet?

Asma and Bashar al-Assad met during her childhood holidays in Syria, as her family frequently visited from the UK. Their relationship deepened when Bashar moved to London in 1992 to train as an ophthalmologist at the Western Eye Hospital. The couple married in 2000, shortly after Bashar assumed the presidency following his father's death. They have three children together: Hafez, Zein, and Karim.

How the Assad dynasty fell

Bashar al-Assad's rule, which relied heavily on an inner circle of family members, saw its end after over five decades of Alawite domination in a predominantly Sunni nation. The family's fortunes took a sharp turn after rebel forces breached Damascus, forcing Assad to flee and effectively ending the regime's decades-long grip on power in Syria.

"Chance At Centre...": Ajit Pawar's 1st Reaction To NCP's Chhagan Bhujbal Row 23 Dec 2024, 8:36 am

NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal - sulking after claiming his party denied him a ministerial berth in the new Maharashtra government - was dealt a slap on the wrist by party boss Ajit Pawar.

In his first public reaction on this issue, Mr Pawar said "sometimes new people have to be given a chance" and said (without naming Mr Bhujbal), "It is not right... to create misunderstandings."

He also seemed to hint at a solution that might satisfy Mr Bhujbal - who was among the 40+ MLAs to side with him in the rebellion last year against NCP founder Sharad Pawar.

"... we have also thought about giving a chance to older people at the centre," Ajit Pawar said, indicating the 77-year-old OBC leader might be given a post in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet.

"Some people are expressing anger because they were not taken in the cabinet... but sometimes new people have to be given a chance. It is not right to unnecessarily create misunderstandings," he said Monday afternoon.

"... we have also thought about how we can give a chance to (senior) people at the centre instead of giving them another chance (in the state government). Ajit Pawar will never disrespect others... but sometimes it is not right to unnecessarily create misunderstandings."

Ajit Pawar's NCP is part of Mr Modi's BJP-led government at the state (as part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance) and federal (as part of the National Democratic Alliance) levels. In return for the support of its 41 MLAs, the party has been given, so far, nine ministerial berths.

READ | D Fadnavis New Maharashtra Chief Minister, E Shinde, Ajit Pawar Deputies

However, none of those berths fell to Mr Bhujbal, who was earlier the state's Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection Minister. Mr Bhujbal - who has sway among the state's OBC voters - responded with a fierce swipe at Ajit Pawar and another senior NCP leader, Praful Patel.

"Ajit Pawar and Praful Patel had said they will talk to me about a ministerial berth. But they did not... no one from Ajit Pawar or Praful Patel's office called me. I am not a toy in their hands," he said in Nashik.

Mr Bhujbal is the MLA from Yevla in Nashik district.

READ | "Not Your Toy": Chhagan Bhujbal To Ajit Pawar On Cabinet Snub

Mr Bhujbal has claimed that his appointment to the state cabinet had, in fact, been cleared by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, but that his NCP colleagues held back on his nomination.

"Fadnavis wanted me... (state BJP chief Chandrashekhar) Bawankule told me that till the end Fadnavis was trying to push for me..." he raged, "The way I was treated was objectionable."

Mr Bhujbal then indicated he expected to be compensated for this snub, and the time he was overlooked for a Rajya Sabha seat when available, which was then filled by Ajit Pawar's wife, Sunetra.

Mr Pawar had maintained silence amid Mr Bhujbal's complaints and protests, by the latter's supporters, in Pune and the Pawar stronghold of Baramati, and even through speculation Chhagan Bhujbal could return to Sharad Pawar's side, start his own party, or join the BJP.

On Sunday, representatives of various OBC groups - who are campaigning against activist Manoj Jarange's demand for quotas for the Maratha community - met Mr Bhujbal. "They expressed shock over my exclusion from the ministry and said they would back me for whatever stand I take," he said.

Mr Bhujbal wasn't the only big name to be dropped from this cabinet; his NCP colleague Dilip Walse-Patil, and Sudhir Mungantiwar and Vijaykumar Gavit of the BJP, also found no place.

READ | NCP's Chhagan Bhujbal Out Of Cabinet, Opposition Lends Shoulder

The drama surrounding Mr Bhujbal has been picked up on by the opposition, which has made suitably sympathetic comments and subtle overtures to the OBC leader, including former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and the Congress' five-time MLA Nitin Raut offering condolences.

Even the NCP faction led by Sharad Pawar has expressed sympathy.

NDTV is now available on WhatsApp channels. Click on the link to get all the latest updates from NDTV on your chat.

4 Children Killed, 1 Injured In Brick Kiln Wall Collapse In Haryana 23 Dec 2024, 8:36 am

Four children were killed when a wall of a brick kiln collapsed on them while they were asleep in Budana village of Haryana's Hisar district, police said on Monday.

A girl was critically injured in the incident that took place on Sunday night in the Narnaund police station area. The victims were identified as Nisha (3 months), Suraj (9), Nandini (5) and Vivek (9), they said.

According to sources, many families of labourers from Uttar Pradesh work at the kiln in Budana. The work of making bricks and installing pillars near the chimney is going on at the kiln.

The children and some labourers were sleeping near the wall of the brick kiln when it collapsed on them.

While Suraj, Nandini and Vivek died on the spot, Nisha succumbed on the way to the hospital, said Superintendent of Police (SP), Hansi, Hemant Kumar Meena.

The condition of a five-year-old girl, Gauri, is critical. She is undergoing treatment at Hisar Civil Hospital. All five children hail from Badhav village in Ambedkar Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, police said.

SP Meena visited Hisar Civil Hospital after the incident and met the families of the children.

The victims' families have not given any written complaint in the matter. If a complaint is received, action will be taken accordingly, he said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Honda, Nissan Announce Launch Of Merger Talks In Joint Statement 23 Dec 2024, 8:33 am

Japanese auto giants Honda and Nissan on Monday agreed to launch talks on a merger seen as a bid to catch up with Chinese rivals and Tesla on electric vehicles.

The two firms along with Mitsubishi Motors "have signed a memorandum of understanding to start discussions and considerations toward a business integration between the two companies through the establishment of a joint holding company", a joint statement said.
 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bangladeshi Traders "Forced" To Import From Pakistan Amid Growing Ties 23 Dec 2024, 8:32 am

In a concern for India, trade and maritime ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh seem to be getting stronger, with a second cargo vessel from Karachi reaching the Chittagong port this week. The Panama-flagged ship 'MV Yuan Xiang Fa Zhan' entered Bangladeshi waters on Sunday afternoon, according to Bangladeshi media reports. 

The vessel, which travelled via Karachi, Pakistan, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is carrying a substantial load of 811 containers of essential industrial materials such as soda ash, dolomite, and marble blocks, along with goods like garments raw materials, sugar, and electronic products, Dhaka Tribune and Daily Observer reported. 

The development came a day after Bangladesh's interim leader, Professor Muhammad Yunus, met Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Egypt's Cairo, where Dhaka and Islamabad "agreed to strengthen relations."

Concern For India

Quoting sources, the Economist Times reported that traders in Bangladesh are being forced to import goods from Pakistan. It also said that some officials in Bangladesh's shipping ministry are suggesting to review of the India-Bangladesh shipping pact, which gave India access to Chittagong and Mongla ports.

Chittagong Port is a strategically located docking site in the Bay of Bengal. Over the years, India has used its relationship with ousted premier Sheikh Hasina to keep an eye on the activities at Chittagong port, where in 2004, around 1,500 boxes of Chinese ammunition were confiscated. 

The consignment, worth an estimated USD 4.5-7 million, was allegedly masterminded by Pakistan's intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The consignment was allegedly meant to be delivered to banned terrorist outfit ULFA (United Liberation Front of Asom) in India.

New Delhi worries a resurgence of Islamist extremism in Bangladesh could target India and support insurgent groups in northeastern states. Adding to India's worries, Bangladesh, in September, removed the clause which required the port authorities to physically inspect cargo from Pakistan on arrival. This makes it easier for Pakistani vessels to use the maritime routes without the physical inspection of cargo. 

Earlier, the restrictive trade policy under Ms Hasina required cargo from Pakistan to be offloaded in Malaysia, Singapore, or Sri Lanka and then transferred to other vessels that carried them to Bangladesh. Indian officials kept a watchful eye on sea routes that connect Chittagong.

Bangladesh-Pakistan Ties

Muhammad Yunus, the 84-year-old Nobel laureate, who took over as leader of Bangladesh's interim administration in August, is a staunch opponent of Ms Hasina's policies, which were fundamentally pro-India and anti-Pakistan. Since he came to power, one of his areas of focus has been improving relations with Islamabad. 

A major development in this regard was to initiate direct maritime connectivity between the two previously hostile Muslim-majority nations, which were once one country. In November, Chinese cargo ship 'MV Yuan Xian Fa Zhong' from Karachi, arrived in Chittagong, marking the first-ever direct maritime contact between the two countries in over five decades-- since Bangladesh was formed in 1971.

Mr Yunus has also met the Pakistani Prime Minister twice since August. The latest meeting was in Egypt's Cairo on the sidelines of the D-8 summit. 

According to a statement from the office of the Chief Adviser, Mr Yunus stressed the importance of resolving the longstanding issues stemming from Dhaka's 1971 bloody separation from Islamabad. 

In response, Prime Minister Sharif called Bangladesh a "brotherly country" and expressed optimism on enhancing Islamabad and Dhaka ties and stressed the need for a strategic partnership.

Both leaders also "agreed to strengthen relations between the two countries through increased trade, commerce, and exchange of sports and cultural delegations", as per the statement from Yunus' office.

"Chance At Centre...": Ajit Pawar's 1st Reaction To NCP's Chhagan Bhujbal Row 23 Dec 2024, 8:31 am

NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal - sulking after claiming his party denied him a ministerial berth in the new Maharashtra government - was dealt a slap on the wrist by party boss Ajit Pawar.

In his first public reaction on this issue, Mr Pawar said "sometimes new people have to be given a chance" and said (without naming Mr Bhujbal), "It is not right... to create misunderstandings."

He also seemed to hint at a solution that might satisfy Mr Bhujbal - who was among the 40+ MLAs to side with him in the rebellion last year against NCP founder Sharad Pawar.

"... we have also thought about giving a chance to older people at the centre," Ajit Pawar said, indicating the 77-year-old OBC leader might be given a post in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet.

"Some people are expressing anger because they were not taken in the cabinet... but sometimes new people have to be given a chance. It is not right to unnecessarily create misunderstandings," he said Monday afternoon.

"... we have also thought about how we can give a chance to (senior) people at the centre instead of giving them another chance (in the state government). Ajit Pawar will never disrespect others... but sometimes it is not right to unnecessarily create misunderstandings."

Ajit Pawar's NCP is part of Mr Modi's BJP-led government at the state (as part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance) and federal (as part of the National Democratic Alliance) levels. In return for the support of its 41 MLAs, the party has been given, so far, nine ministerial berths.

READ | D Fadnavis New Maharashtra Chief Minister, E Shinde, Ajit Pawar Deputies

However, none of those berths fell to Mr Bhujbal, who was earlier the state's Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection Minister. Mr Bhujbal - who has sway among the state's OBC voters - responded with a fierce swipe at Ajit Pawar and another senior NCP leader, Praful Patel.

"Ajit Pawar and Praful Patel had said they will talk to me about a ministerial berth. But they did not... no one from Ajit Pawar or Praful Patel's office called me. I am not a toy in their hands," he said in Nashik.

Mr Bhujbal is the MLA from Yevla in Nashik district.

READ | "Not Your Toy": Chhagan Bhujbal To Ajit Pawar On Cabinet Snub

Mr Bhujbal has claimed that his appointment to the state cabinet had, in fact, been cleared by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, but that his NCP colleagues held back on his nomination.

"Fadnavis wanted me... (state BJP chief Chandrashekhar) Bawankule told me that till the end Fadnavis was trying to push for me..." he raged, "The way I was treated was objectionable."

Mr Bhujbal then indicated he expected to be compensated for this snub, and the time he was overlooked for a Rajya Sabha seat when available, which was then filled by Ajit Pawar's wife, Sunetra.

Mr Pawar had maintained silence amid Mr Bhujbal's complaints and protests, by the latter's supporters, in Pune and the Pawar stronghold of Baramati, and even through speculation Chhagan Bhujbal could return to Sharad Pawar's side, start his own party, or join the BJP.

On Sunday, representatives of various OBC groups - who are campaigning against activist Manoj Jarange's demand for quotas for the Maratha community - met Mr Bhujbal. "They expressed shock over my exclusion from the ministry and said they would back me for whatever stand I take," he said.

Mr Bhujbal wasn't the only big name to be dropped from this cabinet; his NCP colleague Dilip Walse-Patil, and Sudhir Mungantiwar and Vijaykumar Gavit of the BJP, also found no place.

READ | NCP's Chhagan Bhujbal Out Of Cabinet, Opposition Lends Shoulder

The drama surrounding Mr Bhujbal has been picked up on by the opposition, which has made suitably sympathetic comments and subtle overtures to the OBC leader, including former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and the Congress' five-time MLA Nitin Raut offering condolences.

Even the NCP faction led by Sharad Pawar has expressed sympathy.

NDTV is now available on WhatsApp channels. Click on the link to get all the latest updates from NDTV on your chat.

Sai Pallavi Visits Annapurna Temple In Varanasi; Fans Praise Her Simplicity, See Photos 23 Dec 2024, 8:29 am

Ex-Pak PM Imran Khan, Wife To Wait Longer For Verdict In Al-Qadir Trust case 23 Dec 2024, 8:27 am

An Islamabad accountability court on Monday postponed its verdict in the 190 million GBP Al-Qadir Trust corruption case against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi, Dawn reported.

The court had reserved the verdict on December 18 and said that it would be announced on December 23. While presiding over the hearing today, judge Nasir Javed Rana said, "The verdict will not be announced today; [winter] vacations are coming and there is also a course at the high court," according to Dawn report.

The winter vacation in court is scheduled to start tomorrow and will continue till January 1. The judge made the announcement after former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's lawyer Khalid Chaudhry said his team was expecting the verdict today. Judge Rana stated the new date for the verdict's announcement would be issued soon.

PTI founder and his wife were indicted in the case on February 27. The case alleges that Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi received billions of rupees and hundreds of kanals of land from Bahria Town Ltd for legalising Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 50 billion that was identified and returned to Pakistan by the United Kingdom during the previous PTI government.

In December, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had registered a corruption case against PTI and seven others, including his wife, in connection with the Al-Qadir University Trust.

The case filed by NAB alleged that Imran Kjhan played a "pivotal role in the illicit transfer of funds meant for the state of Pakistan into an account designated for the payment of land by Bahria Town, Karachi". It also claimed that the accused, despite given multiple opportunities deliberately, with mala fide intention, did not share information on one pretext or another.

The suspects in the reference include property tycoon Malik Riaz Hussain and his son Ahmed Ali Riaz, Mirza Shehzad Akbar, and Zulfi Bukhari. However, they instead of cooperating in the probe and subsequent court proceedings, they absconded and were subsequently declared proclaimed offenders (PO), Dawn reported.

Farhat Shahzadi, a close friend of Bushra Bibi, and Ziaul Mustafa Nasim, a legal expert for the PTI government's Assets Recovery Unit, were also declared POs. The properties of all six accused had been frozen.

While testifying before the accountability court on December 10, Imran Khan denied the corruption charges, calling them "politically motivated" orchestrated by his opponents allegedly with the support of state institutions. He further said, "My political rivals have weaponised institutions to crush dissent and curb democracy."

Imran Khan has been incarcerated in Adiala jail since his arrest last year based on several cases. Following his arrest in 2023, PTI's ties with the government and establishment have been strained. Since his arrest, the PTI has held several protests calling for his release over the last year, majority of which escalated into violence after facing state repression.

After PTI's power show in November, tensions increased as there were renewed calls to ban Imran Khan's party and task forces established against an alleged "malicious campaign" as the PTI claimed that dozens of party supporters were killed during the march, the claim denied by the government, Dawn reported.

After Imran Khan constituted a five-member committee to hold talks, the government reciprocated by forming its own negotiation committee comprising members of the ruling coalition. The two sides are set to meet today, where they are expected to discuss their demands.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Donald Trump May Keep TikTok Around 'For A Little While' 23 Dec 2024, 8:25 am

US President-elect Donald Trump suggested that he may allow TikTok to continue operations in the United States.

At an event hosted by the conservative organisation Turning Point USA in Phoenix, Arizona, on Sunday, Trump said that the popular video-sharing app may have helped reach some key voters in the presidential election and expressed the possibility of keeping TikTok around "for a little while."

"We did go on TikTok, and we had a great response. We had billions and billions of views," said the president-elect, adding that he was shown a chart highlighting the views his campaign had received on the app.

READ | How TikTok Became A US Security Concern

On Wednesday, the US Supreme Court agreed to review a request from TikTok and its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to block a law that would require the sale of the popular video-sharing app by January 19 or face a ban on national security grounds, reports Xinhua news agency.

The nation's top court is set to hear arguments on January 10 regarding whether the law unconstitutionally limits freedom of speech, in breach of the First Amendment.

The court's ruling was issued two days after TikTok's petition for an injunction against the law. TikTok argued that the potential ban would shutter one of America's most popular speech platforms the day before a presidential inauguration and "silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern."

In April, US President Joe Biden enacted the law that gives ByteDance only 270 days to sell TikTok, citing unfounded national security concerns. If the company fails to comply, the law will require app store operators such as Apple and Google to remove TikTok from their platforms.

In May, TikTok sued the US government to block the potential ban, which has drawn widespread criticism.

In early December, the US Court of Appeals in Washington dismissed TikTok's claim that the ban was unconstitutional.

READ | TikTok Asks US Supreme Court To Temporarily Block Government Ban

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"No Chief Minister Face, No Agenda": Arvind Kejriwal Counters BJP Attack 23 Dec 2024, 8:16 am

The BJP does not have any vision for Delhi and its sole agenda is to abuse Arvind Kejriwal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader said today. "The BJP neither has an agenda nor a Chief Minister face for this election. BJP knows only one thing: how to abuse Kejriwal," the AAP national convener said as the party started doorstep registrations for the Mahila Samman Yojana with an eye on Assembly polls due in February.

The BJP, on the other hand, came out with an aarop patra (allegation list) against the AAP government in the national capital. BJP MP and former Union Minister Anurag Thakur said Delhi's government is the most inefficient in the country. "They (AAP) said free water for all, today people pay thousands to tankers. They said they will make Delhi pollution-free, see the AQI for yourself. They said corruption-free, ministers have gone behind bars," Mr Thakur said.

Targeting the AAP government on the pollution in Yamuna, Mr Thakur said, "My Purvanchali brothers and sisters who celebrate Chhath, Kejriwal's government made Yamuna so polluted they we cannot even celebrate our festival there. Kejriwal ji you said you will take a dip, 2025 is here, it's time."

The BJP also slammed AAP on the issue of women's safety. "Why weren't you able to use Nirbhaya fund? What happened to those fast -track courts you were going to set up?" Mr Thakur asked.

Law enforcement has been a contentious issue between Delhi's AAP government and the Centre. Delhi Police reports to the Union Home Ministry and the ruling AAP has repeatedly sought its control and criticised the Centre for crimes in the national capital.

"I am asking them, all seven MPs in Delhi are from BJP, why are you not taking care of law enforcement. It's deteriorating day by day," Mr Kejriwal said today, countering the BJP's attack.

Responding to the BJP's 'chargesheet', AAP MP Sanjay Singh said, "Delhi citizens know us better. Bharatiya Jhoota Party's politics is based on lies."

Mr Kejriwal and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi today launched doorstep registration for Mahila Samman Yojana and the Sanjivani medical insurance scheme. "Under Mahila Samman Yojana, every woman who registers will get Rs 2,100 every month. And those over 60 who register for Sanjivani Yojana, the government will bear cost for their treatment," he said.

Assembly polls in Delhi are due in February and the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP is pushing for a third consecutive term. Mr Kejriwal stepped down as Chief Minister after he was granted bail in a corruption case. He has said he would return to the top office only after the "people's verdict in this election. The BJP, meanwhile, is going all out to turn the tables on AAP and ensure its defeat.

'I Received Billions Of Views': Donald Trump Hints At Keeping TikTok In US 23 Dec 2024, 8:15 am

President-elect Donald Trump indicated on Sunday that he favored allowing TikTok to keep operating in the United States for at least a little while, saying he had received billions of views on the social media platform during his presidential campaign.

Trump's comments before a crowd of conservative supporters in Phoenix, Arizona, were one of the strongest signals yet that he opposes a potential exit of TikTok from the US market.

The US Senate passed a law in April requiring TikTok's Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest the app, citing national security concerns.

TikTok's owners have sought to have the law struck down, and the US Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case. But if the court does not rule in ByteDance's favor and no divestment occurs, the app could be effectively banned in the United States on Jan. 19, one day before Trump takes office.

It is unclear how Trump would go about undoing the TikTok divestiture order, which passed overwhelmingly in the Senate.

"I think we're going to have to start thinking because, you know, we did go on TikTok, and we had a great response with billions of views, billions and billions of views," Trump told the crowd at AmericaFest, an annual gathering organized by conservative group Turning Point.

"They brought me a chart, and it was a record, and it was so beautiful to see, and as I looked at it, I said, 'Maybe we gotta keep this sucker around for a little while'," he said.

Trump met with TikTok's CEO on Monday. Trump said at a news conference the same day that he had a "warm spot" for TikTok thanks to his campaign's success on the app.

The Justice Department has argued that Chinese control of TikTok poses a continuing threat to national security, a position supported by most US lawmakers.

TikTok says the Justice Department has misstated the social media app's ties to China, arguing that its content recommendation engine and user data are stored in the United States on cloud servers operated by Oracle Corp, while content moderation decisions that affect U.S. users are made in the United States.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

"No Chief Minister Face, No Agenda": Arvind Kejriwal Counters BJP Attack 23 Dec 2024, 8:08 am

The BJP does not have any vision for Delhi and its sole agenda is to abuse Arvind Kejriwal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader said today. "The BJP neither has an agenda nor a Chief Minister face for this election. BJP knows only one thing: how to abuse Kejriwal," the AAP national convener said as the party started doorstep registrations for the Mahila Samman Yojana with an eye on Assembly polls due in February.

The BJP, on the other hand, came out with an aarop patra (allegation list) against the AAP government in the national capital. BJP MP and former Union Minister Anurag Thakur said Delhi's government is the most inefficient in the country. "They (AAP) said free water for all, today people pay thousands to tankers. They said they will make Delhi pollution-free, see the AQI for yourself. They said corruption-free, ministers have gone behind bars," Mr Thakur said.

Targeting the AAP government on the pollution in Yamuna, Mr Thakur said, "My Purvanchali brothers and sisters who celebrate Chhath, Kejriwal's government made Yamuna so polluted they we cannot even celebrate our festival there. Kejriwal ji you said you will take a dip, 2025 is here, it's time."

The BJP also slammed AAP on the issue of women's safety. "Why weren't you able to use Nirbhaya fund? What happened to those fast -track courts you were going to set up?" Mr Thakur asked.

Law enforcement has been a contentious issue between Delhi's AAP government and the Centre. Delhi Police reports to the Union Home Ministry and the ruling AAP has repeatedly sought its control and criticised the Centre for crimes in the national capital.

"I am asking them, all seven MPs in Delhi are from BJP, why are you not taking care of law enforcement. It's deteriorating day by day," Mr Kejriwal said today, countering the BJP's attack.

Responding to the BJP's 'chargesheet', AAP MP Sanjay Singh said, "Delhi citizens know us better. Bharatiya Jhoota Party's politics is based on lies."

Mr Kejriwal and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi today launched doorstep registration for Mahila Samman Yojana and the Sanjivani medical insurance scheme. "Under Mahila Samman Yojana, every woman who registers will get Rs 2,100 every month. And those over 60 who register for Sanjivani Yojana, the government will bear cost for their treatment," he said.

Assembly polls in Delhi are due in February and the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP is pushing for a third consecutive term. Mr Kejriwal stepped down as Chief Minister after he was granted bail in a corruption case. He has said he would return to the top office only after the "people's verdict in this election. The BJP, meanwhile, is going all out to turn the tables on AAP and ensure its defeat.

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3 Delhi Residents Shot Dead In Haryana's Panchkula, Rivalry Possible 23 Dec 2024, 8:02 am

Three people, including a woman, all reported to be residents of Delhi and aged between 20 and 25 years, were shot dead in Morni hills of Panchkula in Haryana, police said on Monday.

The three were attacked by three men outside a resort, said the officials, adding that it could be a case of rivalry.

The trio had left a resort after celebrating a birthday when miscreants fired multiple shots at their SUV on early Sunday.

One of the deceased is Vicky, who along with his nephew and a woman, was there for the birthday celebrations.

The police are investigating an old rivalry behind the crime. The victims, all reported to be residents of Delhi, were celebrating a birthday at the restaurant when the shooting took place.

According to the police, three men arrived at the scene in an Etios car, opened fire indiscriminately on the victims and fled from the crime scene.

The police control room received information about the crime around 3.30 a.m.

The victims were brought to the Civil Hospital of Sector 6 in Panchkula, near the state capital Chandigarh, where they were declared dead.

The police have started an investigation.

Information about the attackers was being sourced. The police were scanning CCTV footage and gathering other clues and evidence, the officials added.

Further details are awaited.

In November, two explosions occurred outside two clubs in Panchkula-adjacent Chandigarh. The blast took place in Sector 26 outside the Seville Bar and Lounge -- owned by singer and rapper Badshah, and De Orra Club. It was reported that gangsters Goldie Brar and Rohit Godara of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang had taken responsibility for the blasts. Two people, allegedly involved in the crude bomb blast were later arrested following an encounter in Haryana's Hisar district. Both the accused were injured after being shot in the leg. The accused were identified as Vinay (20) and Ajit Sehrawat (21), both of whom are residents of Hisar.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Delta Airline Passenger Gets Frustrated After His First-Class Seat Was Given To Service Dog 23 Dec 2024, 7:52 am

A Reddit post has gone viral after an airline passenger was downgraded from his first-class seat, which was reassigned to accommodate a service dog. In the experience shared on the @r/delta Reddit page by user @ben_bob, the user reveals that he got upgraded to a first-class seat, only to be downgraded 15 minutes later to a "worse seat" than he previously had. While the change disappointed the passenger, he was "livid" after seeing that his seat was given to a service dog.

The Redditor wrote, "I got upgraded to first this morning, only 15 mins later get downgraded (to a worse seat than I previously had). I asked the desk agent what was going on and she said "Something changed". Okay, fine, I am disgruntled but whatever, I then boarded only to see this dog in my first-class seat... And now I'm livid."

When he chatted with Delta support, the user shared, "I immediately chat Delta support and they say "you may be relocated for service animals" and there is nothing they can do."

Also Read: Passenger's Great Dane As "Support" Dog On Flight Sparks Debate

Calling it an "absolute joke", the user wrote, "There is no way that dog has spent as much with this airline as I have ... What an absolute joke," adding, "What's the point of being loyal to this airline anymore, truly. I've sat back when others complained about this airline mistreating customers lately and slipping in service levels, but I'm starting to question my allegiance as well."

Delta responded to the flyer's experience in a statement to People Magazine. A spokesperson for the company said, "Delta teams are aware of the customer complaint and are researching the details of what may have occurred," adding that they "invite the customer to contact us directly."

"Service animals are routinely accommodated on Delta without impacting customer seat assignments," the statement concluded.

Just Got Downgraded for a Dog
byu/ben_bob indelta

Reddit users had mixed responses to the passenger's views and experience. Take a look:

"Notice how nowhere else in life do you see this quantity of service animals? Go to the airport and all of a sudden they appear? The Weimaraner "service dog" on my 6-hour flight must have been delightful to sit next to," a Redditor commented.

Another said, "Exclusively in the US. It doesn't happen anywhere else. It's American main-character syndrome."

A user opined, "If you'd paid for your seat then I think it's a legitimate gripe. Complimentary upgrades can be taken away for a variety of reasons though, not just service dogs, without compensation. Doesn't hurt to try with a complaint email or a call to your medallion line, but be prepared for a second rejection just in case."

Also Read: Survey Reveals Most Passengers Find Airport Food And Beverages 'Overpriced'

However, some commented in disagreement with the passenger's views:

One wrote, "So people with legit ADA disabilities and service dogs should just drive or stay home? Why should they be punished for the behaviour of others? And no offense OP, you expect Delta to risk violating ADA and being sued because... checks notes... because you've spent more money than the dog?"

Another shared, "I have a friend who is an epileptic and uses a service dog. You wouldn't recognize her disability if you met her."

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Rozgar Mela: PM Modi Distributes 71,000 Appointment Letters To New Recruits 23 Dec 2024, 7:49 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed over 71,000 appointment letters to newly recruited individuals via video conferencing on Monday.

The event was part of the Centre's Rozgar Mela initiative, aimed at empowering youth through job creation and fostering meaningful participation in nation-building.

Addressing the gathering, PM Modi extended his congratulations to the recruits and their families, saying, "I met Indian youth and professionals in Kuwait, and now I am interacting with the youngsters of the nation. Today marks a new beginning for your journey. Your years of hard work have borne fruit."

He underscored the government's achievements in leveraging India's youth potential, stating, "Through Rozgar Mela, we are advancing this initiative. Over the past ten years, the campaign for providing jobs in government departments, ministries, and organisations has been ongoing. Today, over 71,000 youth have received their appointment letters."

Highlighting the transparent recruitment process, he added, "In the last decade, our government has provided permanent government jobs to over 10 lakh youth, a record in itself. Unlike previous governments, today, not only are lakhs of youth receiving government jobs but these appointments are being made with full transparency. I am confident the youth selected through this process will dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to the nation."

Reaffirming the Centre's commitment to the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047', PM Modi attributed the country's progress to the youth's hard work, talent, and leadership.

He cited initiatives like Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, Startup India, and Digital India as examples of policies shaped by young minds.

"Today, India stands as the world's fifth-largest economy and third-largest startup ecosystem. Youth launching startups now have access to a well-planned ecosystem for support. In sports, modern facilities for training and tournaments ensure confidence among our young athletes. Across sectors, we are witnessing remarkable transformation," he said.

The Prime Minister also emphasized India's achievements in manufacturing, renewable energy, tourism, space exploration, organic farming, defence, and wellness. He praised the advancements brought by the National Education Policy (NEP), Atal Tinkering Labs, and PM Shri Schools, which benefit rural and underprivileged students.

Invoking Chaudhary Charan Singh's legacy on 'Kisan Diwas', PM Modi highlighted the Centre's efforts for rural development and farmer upliftment.

He mentioned employment-focused schemes like Bima Suraksha, Lakhpati Didi, and Drone Didi, aimed at empowering rural areas and farmers.

He also lauded the participation of women in the Rozgar Mela, saying, "Today, many women have received their appointment letters. I hope they inspire others. Schemes such as Sukanya Samruddhi Yojana, Jan Dhan Bank accounts, and Mudra Yojana enable women to pursue education without financial worries."

The Prime Minister also mentioned that under the PM Awas Yojana, maximum houses are under the name of women.

The Rozgar Mela is being conducted at 45 locations across the country, with recruitments for various ministries and departments, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Posts, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Department of Financial Services.

According to a government release, the Rozgar Mela aligns with the Prime Minister's commitment to employment generation, offering meaningful opportunities for youth to contribute to nation-building and self-empowerment.

Hyderabad Top Cop Apologises For Remarks On National Media 23 Dec 2024, 7:48 am

Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand on Monday apologised for his remarks about national media over its coverage of the Sandhya Theatre stampede.

The Police Commissioner said he lost his cool when faced with provoking questions on ongoing investigations.

Anand had remarked that national media has been bought over. His remarks evoked a strong reaction from the national media.

“I apologise for losing my cool when asked continuous provoking questions on ongoing investigations and making unnecessary general remarks about national media,” Anand said in a post on ‘X'

“I feel bad that I got provoked and it was wrong and should have kept calm .I withdraw my remarks wholeheartedly,” said the Police Commissioner.

I apologise for losing my cool when asked continuous provoking questions on ongoing investigations and making unnecessary general remarks about national media . I feel bad that I got provoked and it was wrong and should have kept calm .I withdraw my remarks wholeheartedly ??

— CV Anand IPS (@CVAnandIPS) December 22, 2024

The IPS officer lost his cool when some reporters of television channels continued their questions about the December 4 incident at Sandhya Theatre during the premier show of ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule' and the case booked against actor Allu Arjun.

“Still you are supporting…I know national media how it has behaved. All bought over. Totally bought over. No shame. Bought over, I am telling you this,” Anand told the reporters.

The police on Sunday released minute-to-minute CCTV footage of the incident at Sandhya Theatre, which left a woman dead and her eight-year-old son critically injured.

The Police Commissioner said the investigations were on in the case. The police will seek legal opinion on how to proceed further.

The police had booked a case of culpable homicide not amounting to murder against the theatre management, Allu Arjun and his team.

The actor was arrested by police on December 13. He was produced in a city court, which sent him to judicial custody for 14 days. However, on the same day the Telangana High Court granted him interim bail.

The actor, named as accused number 11 in the case, was released from Chanchalguda Jal the next day.

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Who Was Epigamia CEO Rohan Mirchandani, Who Died Of Cardiac Arrest At 41 23 Dec 2024, 7:42 am

Rohan Mirchandani, the co-founder of Epigamia, died on December 21 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 41. Mr Mirchandani, who co-founded Drums Food International in 2013, built Epigamia into India's leading Greek yoghurt brand.

The company's senior leadership, including COO Ankur Goel and co-founder Uday Thakker said in a joint statement, “All of us at the Epigamia family will deeply mourn this loss. Rohan was our mentor, friend, and leader. We remain steadfast in our determination to carry forward his dream with strength and vigour. Rohan's vision and values will continue to guide us as we work together to honour the foundation he built and ensure that his dream continues to flourish.”

Who was Rohan Mirchandani?

Rohan Mirchandani studied at Bergen Catholic High School, New Jersey, as per his LinkedIn account. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science in Finance and International Business at NYU Stern School of Business and later earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

He started his career in 2004 as an Associate in the CVC division at Duff & Phelps (formerly S&P), working for a year in the Greater New York City area. In 2005, Mr Mirchandani became a Board Member at The Ross Group, a private holding company focused on logistics and warehousing across North America. 

In 2013, he co-founded Drums Food International, the parent company of Epigamia, India's first Greek yoghurt brand. Epigamia offers a range of healthy snacks and convenience food products, including yoghurt, milkshakes, almond drinks, smoothies, cheese, and flavoured yoghurts. The company prides itself on producing preservative-free, plant-based, and lactose-free products.

As CEO, he led the company for more than a decade, driving its growth from the Mumbai area. Epigamia, backed by actress Deepika Padukone, planned to expand into the Middle East by 2025-26. Mr Mirchandani also aimed to increase the company's revenue to Rs 250 crore this fiscal year.

Rohan Mirchandani holds a nearly 4.68 per cent stake in the $160 million startup, which is the third-largest operator in its segment, according to data from the research agency Tracxn. The 41-year-old executive's net worth is not publicly disclosed. However, data shows that he has not cashed in on any of his holdings.

Who Was Epigamia CEO Rohan Mirchandani, Who Died Of Cardiac Arrest At 41 23 Dec 2024, 7:42 am

Rohan Mirchandani, the co-founder of Epigamia, died on December 21 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 41. Mr Mirchandani, who co-founded Drums Food International in 2013, built Epigamia into India's leading Greek yoghurt brand.

The company's senior leadership, including COO Ankur Goel and co-founder Uday Thakker said in a joint statement, “All of us at the Epigamia family will deeply mourn this loss. Rohan was our mentor, friend, and leader. We remain steadfast in our determination to carry forward his dream with strength and vigour. Rohan's vision and values will continue to guide us as we work together to honour the foundation he built and ensure that his dream continues to flourish.”

Who was Rohan Mirchandani?

Rohan Mirchandani studied at Bergen Catholic High School, New Jersey, as per his LinkedIn account. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science in Finance and International Business at NYU Stern School of Business and later earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

He started his career in 2004 as an Associate in the CVC division at Duff & Phelps (formerly S&P), working for a year in the Greater New York City area. In 2005, Mr Mirchandani became a Board Member at The Ross Group, a private holding company focused on logistics and warehousing across North America. 

In 2013, he co-founded Drums Food International, the parent company of Epigamia, India's first Greek yoghurt brand. Epigamia offers a range of healthy snacks and convenience food products, including yoghurt, milkshakes, almond drinks, smoothies, cheese, and flavoured yoghurts. The company prides itself on producing preservative-free, plant-based, and lactose-free products.

As CEO, he led the company for more than a decade, driving its growth from the Mumbai area. Epigamia, backed by actress Deepika Padukone, planned to expand into the Middle East by 2025-26. Mr Mirchandani also aimed to increase the company's revenue to Rs 250 crore this fiscal year.

Rohan Mirchandani holds a nearly 4.68 per cent stake in the $160 million startup, which is the third-largest operator in its segment, according to data from the research agency Tracxn. The 41-year-old executive's net worth is not publicly disclosed. However, data shows that he has not cashed in on any of his holdings.

Who Was Epigamia CEO Rohan Mirchandani, Who Died Of Cardiac Arrest At 41 23 Dec 2024, 7:42 am

Rohan Mirchandani, the co-founder of Epigamia, died on December 21 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 41. Mr Mirchandani, who co-founded Drums Food International in 2013, built Epigamia into India's leading Greek yoghurt brand.

The company's senior leadership, including COO Ankur Goel and co-founder Uday Thakker said in a joint statement, “All of us at the Epigamia family will deeply mourn this loss. Rohan was our mentor, friend, and leader. We remain steadfast in our determination to carry forward his dream with strength and vigour. Rohan's vision and values will continue to guide us as we work together to honour the foundation he built and ensure that his dream continues to flourish.”

Who was Rohan Mirchandani?

Rohan Mirchandani studied at Bergen Catholic High School, New Jersey, as per his LinkedIn account. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science in Finance and International Business at NYU Stern School of Business and later earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

He started his career in 2004 as an Associate in the CVC division at Duff & Phelps (formerly S&P), working for a year in the Greater New York City area. In 2005, Mr Mirchandani became a Board Member at The Ross Group, a private holding company focused on logistics and warehousing across North America. 

In 2013, he co-founded Drums Food International, the parent company of Epigamia, India's first Greek yoghurt brand. Epigamia offers a range of healthy snacks and convenience food products, including yoghurt, milkshakes, almond drinks, smoothies, cheese, and flavoured yoghurts. The company prides itself on producing preservative-free, plant-based, and lactose-free products.

As CEO, he led the company for more than a decade, driving its growth from the Mumbai area. Epigamia, backed by actress Deepika Padukone, planned to expand into the Middle East by 2025-26. Mr Mirchandani also aimed to increase the company's revenue to Rs 250 crore this fiscal year.

Rohan Mirchandani holds a nearly 4.68 per cent stake in the $160 million startup, which is the third-largest operator in its segment, according to data from the research agency Tracxn. The 41-year-old executive's net worth is not publicly disclosed. However, data shows that he has not cashed in on any of his holdings.

Who Was Epigamia CEO Rohan Mirchandani, Who Died Of Cardiac Arrest At 41 23 Dec 2024, 7:42 am

Rohan Mirchandani, the co-founder of Epigamia, died on December 21 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 41. Mr Mirchandani, who co-founded Drums Food International in 2013, built Epigamia into India's leading Greek yoghurt brand.

The company's senior leadership, including COO Ankur Goel and co-founder Uday Thakker said in a joint statement, “All of us at the Epigamia family will deeply mourn this loss. Rohan was our mentor, friend, and leader. We remain steadfast in our determination to carry forward his dream with strength and vigour. Rohan's vision and values will continue to guide us as we work together to honour the foundation he built and ensure that his dream continues to flourish.”

Who was Rohan Mirchandani?

Rohan Mirchandani studied at Bergen Catholic High School, New Jersey, as per his LinkedIn account. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science in Finance and International Business at NYU Stern School of Business and later earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

He started his career in 2004 as an Associate in the CVC division at Duff & Phelps (formerly S&P), working for a year in the Greater New York City area. In 2005, Mr Mirchandani became a Board Member at The Ross Group, a private holding company focused on logistics and warehousing across North America. 

In 2013, he co-founded Drums Food International, the parent company of Epigamia, India's first Greek yoghurt brand. Epigamia offers a range of healthy snacks and convenience food products, including yoghurt, milkshakes, almond drinks, smoothies, cheese, and flavoured yoghurts. The company prides itself on producing preservative-free, plant-based, and lactose-free products.

As CEO, he led the company for more than a decade, driving its growth from the Mumbai area. Epigamia, backed by actress Deepika Padukone, planned to expand into the Middle East by 2025-26. Mr Mirchandani also aimed to increase the company's revenue to Rs 250 crore this fiscal year.

Rohan Mirchandani holds a nearly 4.68 per cent stake in the $160 million startup, which is the third-largest operator in its segment, according to data from the research agency Tracxn. The 41-year-old executive's net worth is not publicly disclosed. However, data shows that he has not cashed in on any of his holdings.

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9 Lord Ayyappa Devotees Injured In Cylinder Blast In Karnataka 23 Dec 2024, 7:38 am

Nine devotees of Lord Ayyappa sustained serious burn injuries due to a LPG cylinder blast at a Shiva temple here, police said on Monday.

According to police, the incident occurred on Sunday night in Sainagar in the city. The devotees were sleeping in the temple room when the tragedy took place.

All nine injured were immediately admitted to KIMS Hospital. Their condition is said to be critical, police sources said.

Police suspect that the devotees did not turn off the cylinder knob properly after cooking food, resulting in the blast.

The devotees were planning a trip to Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple in Kerala.

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9 Lord Ayyappa Devotees Injured In Cylinder Blast In Karnataka 23 Dec 2024, 7:38 am

Nine devotees of Lord Ayyappa sustained serious burn injuries due to a LPG cylinder blast at a Shiva temple here, police said on Monday.

According to police, the incident occurred on Sunday night in Sainagar in the city. The devotees were sleeping in the temple room when the tragedy took place.

All nine injured were immediately admitted to KIMS Hospital. Their condition is said to be critical, police sources said.

Police suspect that the devotees did not turn off the cylinder knob properly after cooking food, resulting in the blast.

The devotees were planning a trip to Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple in Kerala.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Palestinian Woman, 80, Shot Dead By Israeli Troops In West Bank, Claims Son 23 Dec 2024, 7:36 am

An 80-year-old Palestinian woman was shot six times by Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) during a raid in the Balata camp in Nablus last week, her son said. Halima Abu Leil was out to buy groceries, her son said, adding the elderly woman “fell to her knees,” after being shot in the leg and chest on December 19, Sky News reported.

The IDF said they were aware of reports that “uninvolved civilians present in the area were harmed” during the raid, which targeted a suspected terrorist in the camp. The military said the operation involved exchanges of gunfire with militants who reportedly opened fire and threw explosives at IDF soldiers. But no Israeli casualties were reported.

Halima's son, who preferred to remain anonymous for safety reasons, expressed outrage over the shooting, saying his mother's frailty and health issues should have made her a non-threat to the soldiers. “My mum was elderly and had cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure. They could see she was an old woman – why would they fire at her?” he asked.

Halima's daughter also shared her grief, recalling her mother was shot after being struck in her legs, which caused her to kneel before she was fatally shot in the chest. She has herself experienced the pain of loss before, as both of her sons are no longer with her – one was killed last year, and the other incarcerated.

“What law is this? Children and pregnant women are killed. Our sons leave the house and don't come back. They can see she's an elderly lady but they shot her six times – in her legs, in her chest. When she was first shot in her legs, she knelt on the ground,” Halima's daughter told Sky News.

Tensions remain high in the camp following the incident. The streets are still littered with mounds of dirt and shattered glass. Many locals, including those in the mosque where Halima's son prayed the following day, remain fearful of further military action, with one man stating, “These are just young men with guns – meagre protection in the face of Israeli military hardware. What's an M16 to a tank?”

The IDF said the raid was part of a broader counterterrorism operation in the area. “Early on Thursday, the IDF conducted a counterterrorism activity to apprehend an individual suspected of terror activity in the area of Balata in Nablus. During the activity, the IDF soldiers engaged in exchanges of fire with terrorists who opened fire and hurled explosives toward IDF soldiers. Hits were identified. In addition, IDF soldiers encircled a structure in which terrorists barricaded themselves. No IDF injuries were reported,” the IDF statement read.

For Halima's family and others in the camp, her death was just one more in a long series of personal losses. “Every single Palestinian is targeted, no one is exempt. Not children, not the elderly, no one,” said Halima's son, echoing the sentiment of many who feel oppressed.

Indians Reflect On Work Culture As UK Firm Announces Holidays Till January 6 23 Dec 2024, 7:35 am

An Indian employee working for a UK-based organisation has reignited conversation about holiday policies and work culture at domestic and international companies. Vivek Panchal, employed by a British company, posted on X (formerly Twitter) a screenshot of a message from his colleague, informing him of a company-wide holiday of 15 days to celebrate Christmas and New Year.

“Hello Vivek, from Monday it's holidays till Jan 6th, for Christmas and New Year,” the message read.

Sharing the update, Panchal captioned the post, “Benefits of working in a UK-based company.”

Benefits of working in a UK based company ???? pic.twitter.com/onfxM4dPB7

— Vivek Panchal (@Vivekpanchaal) December 20, 2024

Mr Panchal's post drew a massive response, with many lamenting the disparity between holiday policies in India and the West. Users expressed dissatisfaction with the relentless work schedules typical of Indian companies.

One user wrote, “Not only UK all the western countries follow this. Only India and some Asian countries follow the client first attitude and work 24x7 and 365 days work strategy.”

Not only UK all the western countries follow this. Only India and some Asian countries follow the client first attitude and work 24x7 and 365 days work strategy

— Rajesh Iyer (@thatswhyraj) December 21, 2024

Another user tied the issue to the larger debate on work-life balance. “Narayana Murthy in a parallel universe,” commented one user, referencing the Infosys founder's controversial endorsement of a 70-hour work week.

Narayana Murthy in a parallel universe

— Sushovit (@sushovitrazdan) December 21, 2024

A couple of users highlighted the limited leave or lack of leave in India even during major Indian festivals. One user wrote, “In India we need such long holidays...2 days are not sufficient for Diwali.” Another added, “Come to India, they will ask you to work even on Diwali, Holi, Christmas, Eid .....the list is long.”

In India we need such long holidays...2 days are not sufficient for diwali

— Supreme Investors (@SupremeI45867) December 21, 2024

Come to India, they will ask you to work even on Diwali, Holi, Christmas, Eid .....the list is long.

— saurabh sharma (@saurabh1531) December 21, 2024

The debate continued, with Panchal's post reflecting the sentiments of many Indian employees who are questioning the country's work culture and its approach to holiday policies.

Mr Panchal's post comes on the heels of an ongoing debate about work culture in India, especially after the tragic death of an Ernst and Young India consultant in July 2024. Anna Sebastian Perayil, who joined the firm in March, died allegedly due to the overwhelming pressures of her job.

Recent labour data also painted a grim picture, with an average Indian working almost 47 hours a week. The country has one of the most overworked labour forces in the world, even surpassing China and Singapore, data show.

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140 Trillion Oceans Of Water Found In Space Around 12 Billion Light-Years Away 23 Dec 2024, 7:31 am

A colossal water reservoir has been discovered by astronomers in a remote corner of the universe, orbiting a quasar over 12 billion light-years away. This staggering distance means the light we observe today embarked on its journey shortly after the universe's birth. 

The magnitude of this distant water supply is immense, containing an estimated 140 trillion times the volume of all Earth's oceans combined. This vast reservoir resides near a supermassive black hole, approximately 20 billion times more massive than our sun. 

Enveloping this black hole is a quasar named APM 08279+5255, emitting energy equivalent to a thousand trillion suns. According to astronomers, this quasar harbours the most distant and substantial water reservoir ever identified within the universe.

Quasar APM 08279+5255 and its water

Matt Bradford, a scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, leads one of the teams studying the observations.

"The environment around this quasar is unique because it's producing a vast amount of water," Bradford explained. "It's another indication that water is widespread throughout the universe, even in its earliest stages."

Bradford's team, along with a separate group of astronomers, investigated APM 08279+5255 and its central black hole, which pulls in surrounding matter.

As the black hole draws in material, it heats the surrounding gas and dust, creating a region filled with molecules never before detected at such an extreme distance.

Quasars were first discovered over 50 years ago when telescopes revealed mysterious sources of intense brightness in distant parts of space.

These objects are not ordinary stars. They shine brightly from the centres of distant galaxies, outshining all the stars within those galaxies.

At their core lie supermassive black holes, millions or even billions of times the mass of our sun. As gas and dust spiral toward these black holes, the material heats up and releases energy.

This energy radiates across all wavelengths, making quasars some of the brightest and most energetic phenomena ever observed.

Studying quasars allows astronomers to learn about the early universe, as the light we observe today has travelled billions of years to reach us.

Quasars provide insights into the formation of galaxies, the distribution of matter, and the development of the earliest cosmic structures.

They can even map the distribution of matter between galaxies, revealing regions that would otherwise remain hidden.

Some quasars also emit massive jets of high-speed particles that extend across vast distances. These jets can influence star formation, affecting entire regions of cosmic material.

A Surprising Discovery of Water

Astronomers discovered water vapour in the environment surrounding this particular quasar. The vapour spans a region hundreds of light-years across, with one light-year equaling roughly six trillion miles.

Although the gas is thin by Earth standards, it is unusually warm and dense compared to similar regions in our Milky Way.

With temperatures around minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, the gas is about 300 trillion times less dense than Earth's atmosphere. Despite this, it is five times hotter and up to hundreds of times denser than gas found in typical galaxies. These exceptional conditions make this region a unique find.

Why Does This Matter?

Water vapour is more than just a molecule; its presence indicates that the quasar is emitting radiation that keeps the surrounding gas relatively warm.

Astronomers also detected other molecules, such as carbon monoxide, suggesting an abundance of material that could feed the black hole as it continues to grow.

They estimate that there is enough gas for the black hole to increase its mass by roughly six times, though the outcome remains uncertain.

Some of this gas could form new stars, while other portions may be expelled into space. Regardless, these observations provide a glimpse into the conditions of the early universe.

Quasars, Water, and the Building Blocks of Life

The detection of water vapour in such a distant quasar expands our understanding of how life's essential building blocks appear over vast expanses of time and space.

Water is vital for life as we know it, and its presence billions of years ago suggests that the elements necessary for life have been available for a long time.

Moreover, water plays a crucial role in shaping the evolution of stars and galaxies. When gas clouds cool, water facilitates their collapse, promoting the birth of stars.

Finding water this far back provides astronomers with new insights into how galaxies evolved as the universe matured.

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Heartbroken Chess Athlete Writes To Atishi Over 'Lack Of Recognition' 23 Dec 2024, 7:24 am

As chess continues to earn India fame all across the world, certain athletes aren't happy with the lack of recognition they get from the state governments. One such athlete is Tania Sachdev who decided to voice her frustration over repeated cold shoulder from the Delhi government. Tania, in a scathing post on X (formerly Twitter), claimed that she hasn't received any recognition from the Delhi government despite playing chess for India since 2008. She also reminded the political leaders of her achievements in the 2022 Chess Olympiad. She also won a Chess Olympics gold medal in 2024.

"Having played for India since 2008 It's disheartening to see a lack of recognition from the Delhi government for achievements in chess. States that support and celebrate their champions, directly inspire excellence and motivate talent. Sadly, Delhi has yet to take this step."

In the 2022 Chess Olympiad I came back with a historic team bronze and an individual medal. Two years later 2024, the historic Chess Olympic gold, and till date there has been no acknowledgment or recognition by the state govt. As someone who proudly represents Delhi and India, I hope @AamAadmiParty @AtishiAAP ma'am @ArvindKejriwal sir see value in supporting their chess athletes," Tania posted on X.

Having played for India since 2008 It's disheartening to see a lack of recognition from the Delhi government for achievements in chess. States that support and celebrate their champions, directly inspire excellence and motivate talent. Sadly, Delhi has yet to take this step

In…

— Tania Sachdev (@TaniaSachdev) December 23, 2024

In a chat with NDTV in October this year, Sachdev urged Delhi to follow the Tamil Nadu model if it is to produce Grandmasters the way the Southern state has over the last few years.

"There's a reason why we see so many Grandmasters from Tamil Nadu. Why does every girl want to play badminton? Because she's seen a PV Sindhu," said Sachdev, speaking at the NDTV World Summit.

"Unless the state governments recognize the effort of its own players, how are you going to inspire the youth of a profession seriously?" she had said.

Lower Your Blood Pressure This Winter With These Simple Tips 23 Dec 2024, 7:23 am

Winter cold can contribute to elevated blood pressure levels. Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict to conserve heat, reducing their diameter and increasing resistance to blood flow. This vasoconstriction results in higher blood pressure as the heart works harder to circulate blood. Additionally, reduced physical activity, seasonal weight gain, and higher stress levels during winter may exacerbate the issue. These factors can pose a higher risk, especially for individuals with existing hypertension or cardiovascular conditions. Keep reading as we share a list of tips you can follow to reduce high blood pressure in winter.

Tips to reduce high blood pressure during winter

1. Dress warmly and stay comfortable

Wearing layered, insulating clothing helps maintain body temperature and minimizes the body's response to cold exposure. This reduces the constriction of blood vessels, lowering the risk of a blood pressure spike. Focus on keeping extremities warm with gloves and thermal socks to ensure consistent blood circulation.

2. Stay physically active indoors

Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure. Winter weather can limit outdoor activities, so switch to indoor exercises like yoga, aerobics, or home workout routines. Physical activity helps relax blood vessels and improve heart health.

Also read: Hypertension: Superfoods To Manage High Blood Pressure In Winter 

3. Limit salt intake

Excessive sodium can contribute to fluid retention and increase blood pressure. Opt for low-sodium alternatives, flavor dishes with herbs and spices, and avoid processed or packaged foods high in salt. This dietary adjustment helps prevent unnecessary strain on the heart.

4. Monitor blood pressure regularly

Keeping track of your blood pressure during the winter months allows for early detection of significant changes. Use a home blood pressure monitor and consult your doctor if readings remain high or fluctuate significantly.

5. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can lead to blood thickening, increasing resistance to blood flow and raising blood pressure. Even in cold weather, ensure consistent hydration by drinking water, herbal teas, or other non-caffeinated warm beverages.

6. Manage stress levels

Winter holidays and shorter days can bring stress and mood swings, potentially increasing blood pressure. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness to lower stress levels and support heart health.

7. Eat heart-healthy foods

Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods high in potassium, such as bananas, spinach, and sweet potatoes, can counteract the effects of sodium and help regulate blood pressure.

8. Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption

Both alcohol and caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure. During winter, when people tend to indulge in warm alcoholic beverages or hot caffeinated drinks, it's essential to consume these in moderation to avoid blood pressure spikes.

9. Get enough sleep

Poor sleep can contribute to high blood pressure by disrupting the body's natural stress regulation. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even during the winter holidays.

10. Use a humidifier

Cold, dry air can strain the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Using a humidifier indoors keeps the air moist, reduces the likelihood of respiratory infections, and prevents the body from overworking to adjust to harsh environmental conditions.

By adopting these tips, individuals can better manage their blood pressure during winter, protecting cardiovascular health and overall well-being.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

Expired Food, Pests And Unhygienic Storage Conditions Found At Dairy Units In Hyderabad 23 Dec 2024, 7:20 am

Apart from restaurant inspections in Hyderabad, the task force representing Telangana's food safety department is also visiting other kinds of establishments in and around the city. On December 20, 2024, the officials inspected dairy units in Hyderabad and revealed which food safety violations were uncovered. At Durga Dairy Products in Sultan Bazar, the team found several expired artificial flavouring agents, including 500 ml each of vanilla and lemon flavours which expired in 2020. The officials discarded these expired products. They took note of the flaky parts of the ceilings, patchy flooring, lack of proper drains, and food handlers without hair caps. They also discovered that the doors were not closely fitted to keep pests out of the premises. Additionally, the FBO [Food Business Operator] did not provide the Employee Health Records and FoSTac [Food Safety Training and Certification] certificates of food handlers during the inspection.

Task force team has conducted inspections in dairy units in Hyderabad on 20.12.2024.

????? ????? ????????, ?????? ?????

* Employee Health Records and Fostac certificates of food handlers were not provided.

* Ceilings were found to be flaky at some… pic.twitter.com/QJEYStMp8p

— Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana (@cfs_telangana) December 22, 2024

Also Read: 32 Kg Unlabelled Noodles, 10 Kg Expired Chicken Found At Secunderabad Restaurant

On the same day, the team inspected NR Milk House in Rahat Nagar in Amberpet. They found that the manufacturing and storage of products was being done "in an unhygienic environment." They stated that the pest control records were not available. Additionally, they observed pests like house flies, mosquitoes and cockroaches on the premises. Other issues were also flagged by the task force. They found waste bags, wooden logs, plastic containers, etc dumped and disposed of on the floor. They said that particular internal structures which were made up of iron sheets were discovered to be rusty. The officials noted that there was patchy flooring and stagnation of water on the floor - the latter was emanating a foul smell. Moreover, the team observed that the one toilet provided in the unit "opens directly into the manufacturing premises". They pointed out that this may lead to contamination of the products.

?? ???? ?????, ????? ?????, ????????
20.12.2024

*Internal structures are made up of iron sheets which were found to be rusty.

* Flooring was found to be patchy, uneven with stagnation of water and was also found to be emanating foul smell.

* One… pic.twitter.com/P4WbcW0zjc

— Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana (@cfs_telangana) December 22, 2024

Before this, in October 2024, the task force undertook an inspection of Kohinoor Dairy Products, a dairy manufacturing unit in Peerzadiguda in Medipally, near Hyderabad. They listed several violations found on the premises. Click here to read the full story.

5 Killed In Bihar Road Rage. It Started With Pick-up Van Slamming Into Child 23 Dec 2024, 7:20 am

At least five people were killed and 6 others injured after a speeding pick-up van rammed them in Bihar's Purnea district.

The incident happened on Sunday night when a speeding pickup van driven by Sonu Kumar rammed into a group of 11 people standing near the Panchayat Bhawan in Dhakwa village, Purnea district. The vehicle initially hit a child, leading to a dispute between Sonu and the villagers.

Following the argument, Sonu allegedly drove his vehicle in a drunken and enraged state, deliberately running over the people.

The injured were rushed to a hospital where five persons lost their lives during treatment. They have been identified as Jyotish Thakur, 50, Sanyukta Devi, 45, Amardeep, 6, Akhilesh,11, and Manisha,11.

Six others, including Rajesh Muni, Abhinandan Muni, Shalu Kumar, Poonam Devi, Twinkle Kumari, and Nikki Devi, received severe injuries. Two remain in critical condition at Purnea Medical College Hospital.

The injured were initially taken to Dhamdaha Sub-divisional Hospital but were later referred to Purnea Medical College Hospital due to their critical conditions. A case has been registered against Sonu Kumar based on the written complaint from the villagers. Police are conducting raids to arrest Sonu, who fled the scene.

Preliminary investigation suggests Sonu was intoxicated at the time of the incident and was driving at a fast speed. Residents have accused Sonu of intentionally targeting the group due to the earlier dispute.

The police officials sent the bodies of the deceased for post-mortem examinations on Monday morning.

Ranjan Kumar, the in-charge of the Dhamdaha Police Station, said, "On the written application of the local people, we have registered an FIR under relevant sections of rash and negligent driving against Sonu Kumar. We are continuously raiding to arrest Sonu Kumar. He has fled from the village. Information has been received that the accused has committed such a big incident over a small dispute. A complaint has been received that he was in a state of intoxication."

Congress Workers Behind Attack On Allu Arjun's House? Party Responds 23 Dec 2024, 7:20 am

Congress today denied reports of the party's involvement in the attack on 'Pushpa 2' actor Allu Arjun's house over the Hyderabad theatre stampede case in which a woman was killed this month.

The Congress' reaction came after multiple unverified posts surfaced on social media allegedly showing the main accused - who led the attack on Sunday evening - with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.

"None of them belong to Congress. If they find any Congress link, those workers will stand disqualified," party spokesperson Sama Ram Mohan Reddy told NDTV.

A massive protest took place outside the house of Allu Arjun on Sunday with a large group of people, claiming to be students of Osmania University, barging into his Hyderabad residence.

The protesters also threw tomatoes and broke flower pots inside the house.

Protestors are seen at the residence of Allu Arjun in Hyderabad
Photo Credit: PTI

They also reportedly raised slogans of 'we want justice' and demanded the actor to pay Rs one crore compensation to the family of the woman who died in the December 4 incident.

The police arrested six people after the incident, who were granted bail by a local court today.

Revanth Reddy condemned the attack on the actor's house and directed the state Director General of Police and the city police commissioner to be "tough" in maintaining law and order.

Revanth Reddy On Allu Arjun

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy last week said Allu Arjun had attended the premiere of 'Pushpa 2' despite the refusal of police permission, a charge that the actor denied. The Congress leader alleged that before entering the theatre and exiting, the actor stood through the sunroof of his car and waved to the crowds in a roadshow, leading to thousands of fans jostling to get a glimpse of him.

The actor's private security pushed aside the fans, which led to a stampede-like situation, he said.

Mr Reddy claimed the theatre management did not initially allow a police official to meet the actor to convey him to leave the place in view of the prevailing situation. However, the official reached the actor and asked him to leave, as the crowd would not go unless he left.

A senior police official, who then reached the spot, told the actor to leave the place immediately, failing which, he would have to be taken to the police station as the situation was out of control. The senior official forced the actor out of the theatre. Even while leaving, the actor again waved to the crowd, Mr Reddy said.

A video also surfaced showing the police escorting the actor out of the movie hall.

Allu Arjun, however, refuted the allegations and said the police were clearing the way for him and he reached the venue under their directions.

He, without referring to anyone, also refuted the allegations that he held a roadshow waving to the crowd.

"Had there not been permission, they would have told us to return and I am a law-abiding citizen. I would've followed that. Nothing of that sort of information was given to me. I was following as per their guidance and it was not a roadshow. There was no procession. It was just a crowd a few meters away from the theatre," he said at a press conference on Saturday.

'Pushpa 2' Screening Stampede Case

A stampede broke out at a theatre in Hyderabad during the screening of 'Pushpa 2' when Allu Arjun made a visit to the auditorium. A woman was killed and her nine-year-old son, Sri Tej, was critically injured.

Following the incident, the Hyderabad police registered a case against Mr Arjun, his security team, and the management of the theatre.

The theatre owner, general manager, and security manager were arrested on December 8, followed by Mr Arjun's arrest five days later.

The actor was granted bail on December 14.

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Scammers, Fake Accounts, Controversial Figures: Bluesky's Many Struggles 23 Dec 2024, 7:18 am

Bluesky, a social media platform in its nascent stage, is facing a series of challenges while its user base continues to grow. With over 25 million sign-ups, it is gaining mainstream attention but also facing criticism and controversy.

The platform's biggest controversy erupted last week when journalist Jesse Singal joined Bluesky, leading to backlash from LGBTQ+ groups. Mr Singal, who has written about gender transition reversals and is accused of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, became the most blocked user on Bluesky after a petition calling for his removal got over 25,000 signatures. While Bluesky did not directly address the controversy, it said that it does not remove accounts based on activities outside the platform. Mr Singal claimed he received death threats.

As Bluesky grows, its moderation team is struggling to manage a sharp increase in issues, including scams, fake accounts, and copyright violations. The platform received a record 42,000 moderation reports in a single 24-hour period in November. Aaron Rodericks, Bluesky's head of trust and safety, acknowledged the challenges, including a surge in copyright complaints, particularly from Brazil following X's suspension in the country.

Scammers have also flocked to Bluesky, with romance and “pig butchering” scams on the rise. Bluesky has taken aggressive measures to remove fraudulent accounts but faces growing pressure as bad actors adapt to the platform.

The site is also grappling with the issue of impersonation. Last month, Bluesky began labelling fake celebrity accounts that did not identify as satire or fan accounts. Though the number of celebrity impersonators is not as widespread as on larger platforms, fake accounts for figures like Ellen DeGeneres and Cristiano Ronaldo have been identified.

Bluesky has also been scrutinised for its unique verification system. Rather than verifying individual identities, the platform allows users to verify their accounts through an official website domain. This system has been criticised for being too technically complex for some users.

The platform is also dealing with increasing disinformation and potential propaganda, especially from state-controlled news agencies like China's China Daily and Russia's RT. While Bluesky relies on user tips and automated systems to track and remove inauthentic content, there have been signs of state actor activity on the platform.

Still, Bluesky continues to attract users, many of whom have migrated from Elon Musk's X, and has not yet reached the scale of larger platforms like Facebook or X.

Scammers, Fake Accounts, Controversial Figures: Bluesky's Many Struggles 23 Dec 2024, 7:17 am

Bluesky, a social media platform in its nascent stage, is facing a series of challenges while its user base continues to grow. With over 25 million sign-ups, it is gaining mainstream attention but also facing criticism and controversy.

The platform's biggest controversy erupted last week when journalist Jesse Singal joined Bluesky, leading to backlash from LGBTQ+ groups. Mr Singal, who has written about gender transition reversals and is accused of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, became the most blocked user on Bluesky after a petition calling for his removal got over 25,000 signatures. While Bluesky did not directly address the controversy, it said that it does not remove accounts based on activities outside the platform. Mr Singal claimed he received death threats.

As Bluesky grows, its moderation team is struggling to manage a sharp increase in issues, including scams, fake accounts, and copyright violations. The platform received a record 42,000 moderation reports in a single 24-hour period in November. Aaron Rodericks, Bluesky's head of trust and safety, acknowledged the challenges, including a surge in copyright complaints, particularly from Brazil following X's suspension in the country.

Scammers have also flocked to Bluesky, with romance and “pig butchering” scams on the rise. Bluesky has taken aggressive measures to remove fraudulent accounts but faces growing pressure as bad actors adapt to the platform.

The site is also grappling with the issue of impersonation. Last month, Bluesky began labelling fake celebrity accounts that did not identify as satire or fan accounts. Though the number of celebrity impersonators is not as widespread as on larger platforms, fake accounts for figures like Ellen DeGeneres and Cristiano Ronaldo have been identified.

Bluesky has also been scrutinised for its unique verification system. Rather than verifying individual identities, the platform allows users to verify their accounts through an official website domain. This system has been criticised for being too technically complex for some users.

The platform is also dealing with increasing disinformation and potential propaganda, especially from state-controlled news agencies like China's China Daily and Russia's RT. While Bluesky relies on user tips and automated systems to track and remove inauthentic content, there have been signs of state actor activity on the platform.

Still, Bluesky continues to attract users, many of whom have migrated from Elon Musk's X, and has not yet reached the scale of larger platforms like Facebook or X.

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Women Raped In Front Of Families, Children Killed: A Militia On Rampage In Africa 23 Dec 2024, 7:12 am

The M23 militia continues to be on a rampage in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with testimonies detailing mass killings, rapes, and forced displacements. In April, in Rubaya, six children were killed in a marketplace when rebels used a wooden pestle and mortar to crush their skulls, The Guardian reported, quoting eyewitnesses.

A 32-year-old survivor witnessed children brutally killed before fleeing. She and her companions were caught. While she and one of her friends were raped, the other was executed. 

The M23 militia, also known as the March 23 Movement, is a rebel group operating in the eastern regions of the DRC. The group has been responsible for numerous human rights abuses, war crimes, and atrocities. The militia's systematic violence includes forcing women into sexual slavery, attacking them in daylight, and killing witnesses.

A 25-year-old mother said she was raped at gunpoint in front of her daughters after her husband was murdered. Another survivor, 27, was gang-raped by eight men while tending crops.

Women have been brutally attacked, with survivors recounting being raped at gunpoint, often in front of their children. Humanitarian organisations warn that sexual violence in the region has reached unprecedented levels, eclipsing even the DRC's grim history of conflict-driven atrocities.

The region, long plagued by conflict, has seen a surge in sexual violence, with NGOs reporting record numbers of rape survivors. The M23, long accused of operating with Rwandan support, has expanded its control over eastern DRC, reportedly with the backing of thousands of Rwandan troops. UN intelligence sources confirm the presence of Rwandan Defence Force soldiers within Congolese borders, with estimates of up to 4,000 troops involved.

Rwanda denied allegations of aiding the M23, citing cross-border threats as justification for its military presence. However, a UN report to the Security Council earlier this year said that Rwanda was liable for M23 war crimes, including territorial conquests and atrocities.

In Goma, the regional capital encircled by squalid displacement camps, over 650,000 people have sought refuge from the violence. Reports from Médecins Sans Frontières reveal record levels of sexual violence, with 25,166 survivors treated in 2023 alone—a number already surpassed halfway through 2024.

The conflict's toll extends beyond immediate atrocities, with the M23 imposing taxation regimes and replacing traditional authority structures in controlled areas. Observers warn this signals a long-term strategy to annex parts of the DRC, potentially mirroring Russia's tactics in Crimea.

Women Raped As Families Watch, Children Killed: African Militia On Rampage 23 Dec 2024, 7:12 am

The M23 militia continues to be on a rampage in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with testimonies detailing mass killings, rapes, and forced displacements. In April, in Rubaya, six children were killed in a marketplace when rebels used a wooden pestle and mortar to crush their skulls, The Guardian reported, quoting eyewitnesses.

A 32-year-old survivor witnessed children brutally killed before fleeing. She and her companions were caught. While she and one of her friends were raped, the other was executed. 

The M23 militia, also known as the March 23 Movement, is a rebel group operating in the eastern regions of the DRC. The group has been responsible for numerous human rights abuses, war crimes, and atrocities. The militia's systematic violence includes forcing women into sexual slavery, attacking them in daylight, and killing witnesses.

A 25-year-old mother said she was raped at gunpoint in front of her daughters after her husband was murdered. Another survivor, 27, was gang-raped by eight men while tending crops.

Women have been brutally attacked, with survivors recounting being raped at gunpoint, often in front of their children. Humanitarian organisations warn that sexual violence in the region has reached unprecedented levels, eclipsing even the DRC's grim history of conflict-driven atrocities.

The region, long plagued by conflict, has seen a surge in sexual violence, with NGOs reporting record numbers of rape survivors. The M23, long accused of operating with Rwandan support, has expanded its control over eastern DRC, reportedly with the backing of thousands of Rwandan troops. UN intelligence sources confirm the presence of Rwandan Defence Force soldiers within Congolese borders, with estimates of up to 4,000 troops involved.

Rwanda denied allegations of aiding the M23, citing cross-border threats as justification for its military presence. However, a UN report to the Security Council earlier this year said that Rwanda was liable for M23 war crimes, including territorial conquests and atrocities.

In Goma, the regional capital encircled by squalid displacement camps, over 650,000 people have sought refuge from the violence. Reports from Médecins Sans Frontières reveal record levels of sexual violence, with 25,166 survivors treated in 2023 alone—a number already surpassed halfway through 2024.

The conflict's toll extends beyond immediate atrocities, with the M23 imposing taxation regimes and replacing traditional authority structures in controlled areas. Observers warn this signals a long-term strategy to annex parts of the DRC, potentially mirroring Russia's tactics in Crimea.

National Farmer's Day 2024: Know History, Significance And Theme Of This Day 23 Dec 2024, 7:10 am

National Farmer's Day 2024: Kisan Diwas, or National Farmer's Day, is observed annually on December 23 to honour the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India's fifth Prime Minister and a dedicated advocate for farmers. This day is celebrated to express gratitude to the farmers who form the foundation of the country's economy.

The Legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh

Chaudhary Charan Singh, often referred to as the "Champion of Farmers," played a pivotal role in empowering farmers during his tenure as Prime Minister from 1979 to 1980. He introduced landmark reforms such as the Debt Redemption Bill of 1939, which freed farmers from exploitative moneylenders and implemented policies that significantly advanced agricultural self-reliance in India. His contributions to land reforms in Uttar Pradesh transformed the agricultural landscape. In recognition of his legacy, his memorial in New Delhi is named Kishan Ghat.

Date of Kisan Diwas

In 2001, the Government of India designated December 23 as Kisan Diwas to commemorate Chaudhary Charan Singh's contributions toward the upliftment of farmers. The day highlights his vision for farmer welfare and serves as a reminder of the pivotal role farmers play in the nation's growth.

Theme for 2024

This year, Kisan Diwas is centred on the theme "Empowering 'Annadatas' for a Prosperous Nation." The theme emphasizes the importance of providing farmers with resources and opportunities to ensure sustainable agricultural growth and national prosperity.

Significance of this day 

Kisan Diwas serves as a platform to discuss critical issues such as fair pricing, climate resilience, sustainable farming practices, and access to modern agricultural technologies. It also raises awareness about government initiatives aimed at improving the livelihood of farmers and enhancing their role as key contributors to the economy.

Used Practice Pitches For India, New For Australia? Fresh Row Erupts 23 Dec 2024, 7:10 am

Since the conclusion of the third Test between India and Australia in Melbourne, multiple controversies have kept fans busy. As the Indian and Australian teams hit the nets ahead of the start of the 4th Test in Melbourne, the glaring difference between their practice surfaces have left fans infuriated. As the pictures from India and Australia's nets sessions hit social media, fans didn't have to work hard to point out the drastic change in the conditions of the two surfaces. While Australian batters practiced on new surfaces, Indians were made to toil on used ones.

Over the weekend, the entire Indian team, including top batters like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, as well as pacers like Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj, hit the nets to start preparations for the MCG clash.

Reports from India's nets session suggested that the pitch offered quite a low bounce, with even the short-pitched deliveries only rising as high as the batter's waist. Because of the nature of the pitch, India captain Rohit Sharma was also hit on the knee once.

Significant difference between the practice pitches both teams have got in preparation for the Boxing Day Test.#bgt pic.twitter.com/MYyMKZpEGi

— Sandipan Banerjee (@im_sandipan) December 23, 2024

"I think this wicket was for white ball which is why the ball kept low at times. But these blows are common in training. There are no major concerns because of that," India pacer Akash Deep said on Sunday, after the nets session.

Meanwhile, the pitches prepared for Australian players' practice painted a completely different picture. The surfaces looked fresh, offering better preparation opportunities to the hosts.

What MCG Pitch Curator Said On Controversy:

When MCG curator Matt Page was asked about the reason behind the difference in the two surfaces, he said that new practice surfaces are only offered 3 days below, as per the rules.

"We got the schedule of the Indian team well ahead. But we usually give match-centric wickets only three days before the match. It's applicable for all teams," Page clarified.

While the Australian team hit the nets for the first time on Monday, on fresh wickets, Indian players decided to give the training session a miss. Whenever the Indian team hits the nets next, they would also be given fresh surfaces, similar to what Pat Cummins and his men practiced on.

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3 Marriages, Rs 1.25 Crore: How 'Looting Bride' Targeted Rich Men 23 Dec 2024, 7:09 am

A woman, described by the police as "looteri Dulhan" or looting bride, has been arrested over a decade after she married a series of men and collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore from them in the name of settlement.

Seema, aka Nikki, a resident of Uttarakhand, first married a businessman from Agra in 2013. Some time later, she filed a case against the man's family and received Rs 75 lakh as part of a compromise.

In 2017, Seema married a software engineer from Gurugram and later took Rs 10 lakh from the man as settlement after parting ways with him.

She then went on to marry a Jaipur-based businessman in 2023, but soon fled his home with jewellery and cash worth Rs 36 lakh. After the family filed a case, Jaipur Police arrested Seema.

Police investigation revealed that Seema looked for her victims on matrimonial sites, usually settling for men who were either divorced or had lost their wives. By marrying in different states, she collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore as settlement in various cases.

3 Marriages, Rs 1.25 Crore: How 'Looting Bride' Targeted Rich Men 23 Dec 2024, 7:09 am

A woman, described by the police as "looteri Dulhan" or looting bride, has been arrested over a decade after she married a series of men and collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore from them in the name of settlement.

Seema, aka Nikki, a resident of Uttarakhand, first married a businessman from Agra in 2013. Some time later, she filed a case against the man's family and received Rs 75 lakh as part of a compromise.

In 2017, Seema married a software engineer from Gurugram and later took Rs 10 lakh from the man as settlement after parting ways with him.

She then went on to marry a Jaipur-based businessman in 2023, but soon fled his home with jewellery and cash worth Rs 36 lakh. After the family filed a case, Jaipur Police arrested Seema.

Police investigation revealed that Seema looked for her victims on matrimonial sites, usually settling for men who were either divorced or had lost their wives. By marrying in different states, she collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore as settlement in various cases.

3 Marriages, Rs 1.25 Crore: How 'Looting Bride' Targeted Rich Men 23 Dec 2024, 7:09 am

A woman, described by the police as "looteri Dulhan" or looting bride, has been arrested over a decade after she married a series of men and collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore from them in the name of settlement.

Seema, aka Nikki, a resident of Uttarakhand, first married a businessman from Agra in 2013. Some time later, she filed a case against the man's family and received Rs 75 lakh as part of a compromise.

In 2017, Seema married a software engineer from Gurugram and later took Rs 10 lakh from the man as settlement after parting ways with him.

She then went on to marry a Jaipur-based businessman in 2023, but soon fled his home with jewellery and cash worth Rs 36 lakh. After the family filed a case, Jaipur Police arrested Seema.

Police investigation revealed that Seema looked for her victims on matrimonial sites, usually settling for men who were either divorced or had lost their wives. By marrying in different states, she collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore as settlement in various cases.

3 Marriages, Rs 1.25 Crore: How 'Looting Bride' Targeted Rich Men 23 Dec 2024, 7:09 am

A woman, described by the police as "looteri Dulhan" or looting bride, has been arrested over a decade after she married a series of men and collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore from them in the name of settlement.

Seema, aka Nikki, a resident of Uttarakhand, first married a businessman from Agra in 2013. Some time later, she filed a case against the man's family and received Rs 75 lakh as part of a compromise.

In 2017, Seema married a software engineer from Gurugram and later took Rs 10 lakh from the man as settlement after parting ways with him.

She then went on to marry a Jaipur-based businessman in 2023, but soon fled his home with jewellery and cash worth Rs 36 lakh. After the family filed a case, Jaipur Police arrested Seema.

Police investigation revealed that Seema looked for her victims on matrimonial sites, usually settling for men who were either divorced or had lost their wives. By marrying in different states, she collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore as settlement in various cases.

685 eminent Indians write open letter to people of Bangladesh, urge them to prioritise peace, friendship 23 Dec 2024, 7:06 am

Manual Labour Resumes Excavation Work Of Sambhal Stepwell After JCB Fails 23 Dec 2024, 7:04 am

Manual labour was deployed by the Nagar Palika on Monday morning to continue the underground excavation work in Laxmanganj, after a JCB machine failed to move further. The excavation began with the help of local workers, who took over the task of uncovering what turned out to be a historical stepwell.

The JCB had been operated for two days, but when the machinery was unable to proceed, the Nagar Palika decided to switch to manual labor.

Meanwhile, visuals from Chandausi, Sambhal, show excavation work being carried out at an age-old stepwell, which was uncovered by a team from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Sunday. The discovery came after the reopening of a Shiv-Hanuman temple in the district, which had been closed for 46 years.

Sambhal's District Magistrate, Rajendra Pensiya, confirmed the finding, stating that a 'baoli' (stepwell) covering an area of 400 square meters had been unearthed. He explained, "The structure, which has around four chambers, includes floors made of marble and bricks. The second and third floors are made of marble, while the upper floors are built from bricks." He also added, "This baoli is said to have been built during the time of the grandfather of Bilari's king."

The excavation work began after a public meeting on Saturday, which brought attention to the structure. Pensiya said, "The structure is fully covered in mud, and the Nagar Palika team is removing the topsoil. Currently, only 210 square meters are uncovered, and the rest is occupied. We will take action to remove the encroachment." He further estimated the stepwell to be over 150 years old.

Krishna Kumar Sonkar, the Executive Officer of the Municipal Corporation, shared, "As soon as we learned that there was a baoli here, we started the excavation work. We will continue the work as we learn more about it."

In another related development, an ASI team also conducted a survey of the Kalki Vishnu temple in Sambhal, inspecting five shrines and 19 wells in the area. DM Pensiya stated that the inspection lasted 8-10 hours and covered around 24 areas. "ASI will submit its report to us... a total of around 24 areas were surveyed," the district magistrate added.

Constipation Awareness Month 2024: 10 Changes Everyone Can Make To Their Diet For Better Digestion 23 Dec 2024, 7:03 am

December is recognised as Constipation Awareness Month, a global healthcare event dedicated to educating individuals about constipation, its complications, and preventive measures. Constipation is a common gastrointestinal condition characterised by infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often resulting in hard, dry stools, abdominal discomfort, and bloating. It can arise from various factors, including a low-fibre diet, inadequate fluid intake, lack of physical activity, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions. Addressing constipation is crucial, as chronic cases can lead to complications like haemorrhoids or anal fissures. Dietary modifications can significantly enhance digestion and alleviate constipation. Read on as we share simple dietary changes everyone can make for better digestive health.

Here are ten dietary changes that can promote better digestion:

1. Increase fibre intake

Consuming a diet rich in both soluble and insoluble fibre is essential. Soluble fibre, found in foods like oats, apples, and beans, absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance, aiding in stool formation. Insoluble fibre, present in whole grains and vegetables, adds bulk to the stool and helps it pass more quickly through the intestines.

2. Stay hydrated

Adequate water intake is crucial for digestive health. Water softens the stool, facilitating easier passage through the colon. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily, adjusting for factors like climate and physical activity levels.

3. Incorporate probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. Foods like yogurt with live cultures, kefir, and fermented vegetables introduce these good bacteria into the digestive system, enhancing digestion and reducing symptoms of constipation.

4. Limit processed foods

Processed foods often contain high levels of unhealthy fats, sugars, and low fibre content, which can slow digestion and lead to constipation. Reducing the intake of such foods and opting for whole, unprocessed options can improve digestive efficiency and overall health.

5. Eat regular, balanced meals

Consistent meal times and balanced nutrition help regulate digestive processes. Skipping meals or overeating can disrupt the digestive system, leading to issues like indigestion or constipation. Incorporate a variety of nutrients in each meal to support digestive health.

6. Chew food thoroughly

Proper mastication breaks down food into smaller particles, making it easier for the digestive system to process. Chewing thoroughly also stimulates saliva production, which contains enzymes that initiate the breakdown of carbohydrates.

7. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol

Both caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate the body, leading to hard stools and constipation. Limiting their intake and ensuring adequate water consumption can help maintain digestive balance.

8. Incorporate healthy fats

Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil, can aid digestion by lubricating the intestines and facilitating nutrient absorption. However, moderation is key, as excessive fat intake can lead to digestive discomfort.

9. Include natural laxative foods

Certain foods have natural laxative properties. For example, kiwis are rich in fibre and have been shown to increase stool frequency and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Similarly, prunes contain sorbitol, which can help alleviate constipation.

10. Practice mindful eating

Eating slowly and without distractions allows the body to properly process food, leading to better digestion. Mindful eating can also prevent overeating, which often causes digestive discomfort.

Implementing these dietary changes can lead to significant improvements in digestive health, reducing the incidence of constipation and enhancing overall well-being. It's important to introduce these changes gradually and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

Ukraine Collects Vast War Data Trove To Train AI Models 23 Dec 2024, 7:03 am

As the future of warfare pivots towards artificial intelligence, Ukraine is sitting on a valuable resource: millions of hours of footage from drones which can be used to train AI models to make decisions on the battlefield.

AI has been deployed by both sides on the battlefield during Russia's invasion of Ukraine to identify targets, scanning images far quicker than a human can.

Oleksandr Dmitriev, founder of OCHI, a non-profit Ukrainian digital system which centralises and analyses video feeds from over 15,000 drone crews working on the frontlines, told Reuters his system had collected 2 million hours, or 228 years, of battlefield video from drones since 2022.

That will provide vital data for AI to learn from.

"This is food for the AI: If you want to teach an AI, you give it 2 million hours (of video), it will become something supernatural."

According to Dmitriev, the footage can be used to train AI models in combat tactics, spotting targets and assessing the effectiveness of weapons systems.

"It is essentially experience which can be turned into mathematics," he said, adding that an AI program can study the trajectories and angles at which weapons are most effective.

The system was originally made in 2022 to give military commanders an overview of their areas of the battlefield by showing them drone footage from all nearby crews side by side on one screen.

After the system was rolled out, the team running it realised that video being sent back by drones could prove useful as a record of the war - so they began to store it.

On average, Dmitriev said five or six terabytes of new data were added every day from the fighting.

IMAGE QUALITY

Dmitriev said he was talking with representatives from some of Ukraine's foreign allies that had expressed interest in his OCHI system, but declined to provide details.

Samuel Bendett, adjunct senior fellow at the U.S.-based Center for a New American Security, said such a vast pool of data would be extremely valuable in teaching AI systems to identify what exactly they are seeing, and what steps they should take.

"Humans can do this intuitively, but machines cannot, and they have to be trained on what is or isn't a road, or a natural obstacle, or an ambush," he said.

Kateryna Bondar, a fellow at Wadhwani AI Centre at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, said the size of the data set and the image quality were important, as AI models learned to recognise targets based on shapes and colours.

Bondar said that the dataset was valuable in the context of training to fight Russia. However, she said U.S. officials and drone makers prefer a dataset that trains AI systems to operate in the Pacific against a potential Chinese adversary.

"(They want) systems ready and able to fight against China because that's the main priority for the U.S. right now, rather than getting a lot of footage of Ukrainian fields and forests."

Ukraine also has another system, called Avengers, developed by its defence ministry, which centralises and collects video from drones and CCTV.

The ministry declined to provide information about this system. However, it has previously said that Avengers spots 12,000 Russian pieces of equipment a week using AI identification tools.

Thousands of drones are already using AI systems to fly themselves into targets without human piloting, and Ukraine is using AI technologies to help demine its territory.

Ukrainian companies are developing drone swarms, where a computer system will be able to execute commands for an interlinked cloud of dozens of drones.

Russia has also touted its use of battlefield AI, most notably for target recognition in Lancet strike drones, which have proved lethal against Ukrainian armoured vehicles.

Allu Arjun's House Vandalised: Bail Granted To 6 Accused, Pushpa 2 Star To Get Rs 60,000 Compensation 23 Dec 2024, 7:03 am

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Manual Labour Resumes Excavation Work Of Sambhal Stepwell After JCB Fails 23 Dec 2024, 7:01 am

Manual labour was deployed by the Nagar Palika on Monday morning to continue the underground excavation work in Laxmanganj, after a JCB machine failed to move further. The excavation began with the help of local workers, who took over the task of uncovering what turned out to be a historical stepwell.

The JCB had been operated for two days, but when the machinery was unable to proceed, the Nagar Palika decided to switch to manual labor.

Meanwhile, visuals from Chandausi, Sambhal, show excavation work being carried out at an age-old stepwell, which was uncovered by a team from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Sunday. The discovery came after the reopening of a Shiv-Hanuman temple in the district, which had been closed for 46 years.

Sambhal's District Magistrate, Rajendra Pensiya, confirmed the finding, stating that a 'baoli' (stepwell) covering an area of 400 square meters had been unearthed. He explained, "The structure, which has around four chambers, includes floors made of marble and bricks. The second and third floors are made of marble, while the upper floors are built from bricks." He also added, "This baoli is said to have been built during the time of the grandfather of Bilari's king."

The excavation work began after a public meeting on Saturday, which brought attention to the structure. Pensiya said, "The structure is fully covered in mud, and the Nagar Palika team is removing the topsoil. Currently, only 210 square meters are uncovered, and the rest is occupied. We will take action to remove the encroachment." He further estimated the stepwell to be over 150 years old.

Krishna Kumar Sonkar, the Executive Officer of the Municipal Corporation, shared, "As soon as we learned that there was a baoli here, we started the excavation work. We will continue the work as we learn more about it."

In another related development, an ASI team also conducted a survey of the Kalki Vishnu temple in Sambhal, inspecting five shrines and 19 wells in the area. DM Pensiya stated that the inspection lasted 8-10 hours and covered around 24 areas. "ASI will submit its report to us... a total of around 24 areas were surveyed," the district magistrate added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Congress Workers Behind Attack On Allu Arjun's House? Party Responds 23 Dec 2024, 7:01 am

Congress today denied reports of the party's involvement in the attack on 'Pushpa 2' actor Allu Arjun's house over the Hyderabad theatre stampede case in which a woman was killed this month.

The Congress' reaction came after multiple unverified posts surfaced on social media allegedly showing the main accused - who led the attack on Sunday evening - with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.

"None of them belong to Congress. If they find any Congress link, those workers will stand disqualified," party spokesperson Sama Ram Mohan Reddy told NDTV.

A massive protest took place outside the house of Allu Arjun on Sunday with a large group of people, claiming to be students of Osmania University, barging into his Hyderabad residence.

The protesters also threw tomatoes and broke flower pots inside the house.

Protestors are seen at the residence of Allu Arjun in Hyderabad
Photo Credit: PTI

They also reportedly raised slogans of 'we want justice' and demanded the actor to pay Rs one crore compensation to the family of the woman who died in the December 4 incident.

The police arrested six people after the incident, who were granted bail by a local court today.

Revanth Reddy condemned the attack on the actor's house and directed the state Director General of Police and the city police commissioner to be "tough" in maintaining law and order.

Revanth Reddy On Allu Arjun

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy last week said Allu Arjun had attended the premiere of 'Pushpa 2' despite the refusal of police permission, a charge that the actor denied. The Congress leader alleged that before entering the theatre and exiting, the actor stood through the sunroof of his car and waved to the crowds in a roadshow, leading to thousands of fans jostling to get a glimpse of him.

The actor's private security pushed aside the fans, which led to a stampede-like situation, he said.

Mr Reddy claimed the theatre management did not initially allow a police official to meet the actor to convey him to leave the place in view of the prevailing situation. However, the official reached the actor and asked him to leave, as the crowd would not go unless he left.

A senior police official, who then reached the spot, told the actor to leave the place immediately, failing which, he would have to be taken to the police station as the situation was out of control. The senior official forced the actor out of the theatre. Even while leaving, the actor again waved to the crowd, Mr Reddy said.

A video also surfaced showing the police escorting the actor out of the movie hall.

Allu Arjun, however, refuted the allegations and said the police were clearing the way for him and he reached the venue under their directions.

He, without referring to anyone, also refuted the allegations that he held a roadshow waving to the crowd.

"Had there not been permission, they would have told us to return and I am a law-abiding citizen. I would've followed that. Nothing of that sort of information was given to me. I was following as per their guidance and it was not a roadshow. There was no procession. It was just a crowd a few meters away from the theatre," he said at a press conference on Saturday.

'Pushpa 2' Screening Stampede Case

A stampede broke out at a theatre in Hyderabad during the screening of 'Pushpa 2' when Allu Arjun made a visit to the auditorium. A woman was killed and her nine-year-old son, Sri Tej, was critically injured.

Following the incident, the Hyderabad police registered a case against Mr Arjun, his security team, and the management of the theatre.

The theatre owner, general manager, and security manager were arrested on December 8, followed by Mr Arjun's arrest five days later.

The actor was granted bail on December 14.

Paatal Lok Season 2: Jaideep Ahlawat to return as Hathi Ram in January 2025 23 Dec 2024, 7:00 am

XAT 2025 Admit Card To Be Out Soon, Check Details 23 Dec 2024, 6:58 am

The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) 2025 admit card will be available for download soon. Eligible candidates can download their hall tickets from the official website once released. The exam is scheduled for January 5, 2025, from 2pm to 5pm. The application process began on July 15 and closed on December 10, 2024. XLRI conducts the XAT to identify the best candidates for management education, with over 250 institutes accepting XAT scores for admission into their management programs.  

XAT 2025 Admit Card: Steps To Download  

Step 1. Visit the official XAT website 
Step 2. Click on the XAT 2025 admit card link  
Step 3. You will be redirected to a new page  
Step 4. Enter your login credentials and submit 
Step 5. Verify the details and download the admit card 
Step 6. Print a hard copy for future reference  

The XAT 2025 admit card will include the candidate's XAT ID, name, photograph, signature, date of birth (DOB), and PwD status, along with important details such as the exam date, reporting time, gate closure time, exam duration, test city, exam centre name and address, emergency contact number, and exam day guidelines.  

The XAT 2025 exam will consist of four sections designed to assess various skills. The Verbal Ability & Logical Reasoning section tests critical thinking and language proficiency, while the Decision Making section evaluates ethical judgment and decision-making abilities. The Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation section focuses on mathematical and analytical skills. Lastly, the General Awareness section examines knowledge of current events, business trends, and the financial landscape.  
 

Steering, Throttle Fault May Be Behind Mumbai Ferry Crash, Crew Knew: Sources 23 Dec 2024, 6:56 am

The collision between a Navy boat and a passenger ferry off the coast of Mumbai on December 18, which resulted in 15 deaths, was likely caused by a technical malfunction in the steering assembly and in the throttle quadrant which governs the speed of the boat, Navy sources have said. The boat was travelling at a high speed when it made an impact with the tourist ferry. 

A survivor on board the Navy vessel, who belonged to the manufacturer of the boat which was being tested before induction, has indicated that the crew was aware of the malfunction when the collision took place. 

Videos of the incident show an effort being made to steer the craft away from the ferry but the Navy boat was unable to turn away sharply enough to avoid the accident. 

The Navy craft, a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB), was undergoing engine trials at high speed, lost control and collided with the passenger ferry Neel Kamal. The ferry, carrying more than 100 passengers, was en route from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, a popular tourist destination known for its ancient cave temples.

The collision caused the ferry to sink in the Arabian Sea, making it one of the deadliest maritime accidents in the city's harbour. Naval helicopters and boats, along with Coast Guard vessels, were deployed in search and rescue operations following the incident.

Of the 113 individuals aboard the two vessels, 15 died, while 98 others were rescued, including two who were injured. On the Navy craft, which had six crew members, only two survived.

According to records from the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), the Neel Kamal was licensed to carry a maximum of 84 passengers and six crew members. However, the ferry was overloaded at the time of the collision.

The MMB has since cancelled the ferry's licence and launched its own investigation into the matter. A case has been registered against the Navy craft's driver at the Colaba police station under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges related to negligence, endangering public safety and rash navigation. The Navy craft is currently in the custody of naval authorities, though police have indicated they will request access to the vessel as needed for their investigation.

New Year begins on Mars, but it's not as festive as Earth 23 Dec 2024, 6:56 am

New Year begins on Mars, but it's not as festive as Earth 23 Dec 2024, 6:56 am

8 Years Later, Thane Court Grants Relief To 10 Accused In Murder Case 23 Dec 2024, 6:56 am

A Thane court has acquitted 10 persons accused in a case of murder in 2016, observing that the probe agency committed a grave error or was "misguided or directed" by witnesses.

The accused were charged with murder, rioting and also booked under provisions of the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).

Special MCOCA Court Judge Amit M Shete, in the 56-page judgement passed on December 19 after the trial spanning more than seven years, said the prosecution and witnesses failed to establish the serious offence of murder against the accused beyond all reasonable doubt.

A copy of the order was made available on Monday.

According to the prosecution, a local security business operator, Ranjeet alias Bunty, was attacked with knives near a temple in Napoli area of Thane district on October 24, 2016.

He later succumbed to injuries despite extensive medical treatment.

The prosecution alleged that the accused, led by Akshay Nanda, carried out the attack as part of a conspiracy, robbing the victim of his gold chain and rings.

The defence counsels contested the case.

The court also addressed discrepancies in the confessional statements, which the accused claimed were obtained under duress.

"On perusal of the entire evidence on record, there appears reasonable doubt regarding the prosecution version of eyewitnesses and motive/mens rea. The prosecution and witnesses failed to establish the serious offence of murder beyond all reasonable doubt," the judge said.

"From the entire evidence on record, it depicts that it is the investigation agency who had committed grave error or the agency must have been misguided and/or directed by the witnesses," the court said.

The prosecution and witnesses "failed to stand on their own feet", thereby giving rise to reasonable doubt, and the accused are entitled to its benefit, it added.

Those acquitted are Akshay Nanda alias Nandu Patil (36), Rohit Ravi Patil (35), Anil alias Pappya Nathuram Shelar (33), Ajinkya alias Ajju Vijay Jadhav (33), Abhishek Gangadhar Nimbolkar (36), Anil alias Bablu Shivaji Shelar (34), Sachin Sopan Wadkar (44), Rushikesh Ramdas Patil (34), Bharat Khandu Patil (36) and Rupesh Rajesh Khandagale (46). 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

8 Years Later, Thane Court Grants Relief To 10 Accused In Murder Case 23 Dec 2024, 6:56 am

A Thane court has acquitted 10 persons accused in a case of murder in 2016, observing that the probe agency committed a grave error or was "misguided or directed" by witnesses.

The accused were charged with murder, rioting and also booked under provisions of the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).

Special MCOCA Court Judge Amit M Shete, in the 56-page judgement passed on December 19 after the trial spanning more than seven years, said the prosecution and witnesses failed to establish the serious offence of murder against the accused beyond all reasonable doubt.

A copy of the order was made available on Monday.

According to the prosecution, a local security business operator, Ranjeet alias Bunty, was attacked with knives near a temple in Napoli area of Thane district on October 24, 2016.

He later succumbed to injuries despite extensive medical treatment.

The prosecution alleged that the accused, led by Akshay Nanda, carried out the attack as part of a conspiracy, robbing the victim of his gold chain and rings.

The defence counsels contested the case.

The court also addressed discrepancies in the confessional statements, which the accused claimed were obtained under duress.

"On perusal of the entire evidence on record, there appears reasonable doubt regarding the prosecution version of eyewitnesses and motive/mens rea. The prosecution and witnesses failed to establish the serious offence of murder beyond all reasonable doubt," the judge said.

"From the entire evidence on record, it depicts that it is the investigation agency who had committed grave error or the agency must have been misguided and/or directed by the witnesses," the court said.

The prosecution and witnesses "failed to stand on their own feet", thereby giving rise to reasonable doubt, and the accused are entitled to its benefit, it added.

Those acquitted are Akshay Nanda alias Nandu Patil (36), Rohit Ravi Patil (35), Anil alias Pappya Nathuram Shelar (33), Ajinkya alias Ajju Vijay Jadhav (33), Abhishek Gangadhar Nimbolkar (36), Anil alias Bablu Shivaji Shelar (34), Sachin Sopan Wadkar (44), Rushikesh Ramdas Patil (34), Bharat Khandu Patil (36) and Rupesh Rajesh Khandagale (46). 

Steering, Throttle Fault May Be Behind Ferry Crash, Navy Crew Knew: Sources 23 Dec 2024, 6:56 am

The collision between a Navy boat and a passenger ferry off the coast of Mumbai on December 18, which resulted in 15 deaths, was likely caused by a technical malfunction in the steering assembly and in the throttle quadrant which governs the speed of the boat, Navy sources have said. The boat was travelling at a high speed when it made an impact with the tourist ferry. 

A survivor on board the Navy vessel, who belonged to the manufacturer of the boat which was being tested before induction, has indicated that the crew was aware of the malfunction when the collision took place. 

Videos of the incident show an effort being made to steer the craft away from the ferry but the Navy boat was unable to turn away sharply enough to avoid the accident. 

The Navy craft, a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB), was undergoing engine trials at high speed, lost control and collided with the passenger ferry Neel Kamal. The ferry, carrying more than 100 passengers, was en route from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, a popular tourist destination known for its ancient cave temples.

The collision caused the ferry to sink in the Arabian Sea, making it one of the deadliest maritime accidents in the city's harbour. Naval helicopters and boats, along with Coast Guard vessels, were deployed in search and rescue operations following the incident.

Of the 113 individuals aboard the two vessels, 15 died, while 98 others were rescued, including two who were injured. On the Navy craft, which had six crew members, only two survived.

According to records from the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), the Neel Kamal was licensed to carry a maximum of 84 passengers and six crew members. However, the ferry was overloaded at the time of the collision.

The MMB has since cancelled the ferry's licence and launched its own investigation into the matter. A case has been registered against the Navy craft's driver at the Colaba police station under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges related to negligence, endangering public safety and rash navigation. The Navy craft is currently in the custody of naval authorities, though police have indicated they will request access to the vessel as needed for their investigation.

18% GST on caramelised popcorn sparks meme fest online. Best ones here 23 Dec 2024, 6:53 am

18% GST on caramelised popcorn sparks meme fest online. Best ones here 23 Dec 2024, 6:53 am

Mamata Machinery IPO Closes Today: Should You Apply? Check Subscription Status, GMP Today 23 Dec 2024, 6:51 am

India Cements Shares Surge 11% Following CCI's Approval Of UltraTech Acquisition 23 Dec 2024, 6:49 am

Sachet and Parampara blessed with a baby boy 23 Dec 2024, 6:47 am

Bombay HC Grants Big Relief To Taxpayers, Belated ITR Filing Deadline To Be Extended To January 15 23 Dec 2024, 6:47 am

Gangrape, fraud case against BJP MLA, 15 others, legislator calls it 'conspiracy' 23 Dec 2024, 6:45 am

Why Modi govt doesn't want you to see CCTV footage from a poll booth 23 Dec 2024, 6:43 am

Big Bastar Fraud: 'Sunny Leone' Beneficiary Of Chhattisgarh Scheme For Women 23 Dec 2024, 6:42 am

In a shocking case of fraud in a Chhattisgarh government scheme for married women, a man allegedly opened an account in the name of actor Sunny Leone and had been pocketing the sum of Rs 1,000 deposited in it every month.

Under the BJP government's Mahtari Vandan Yojana, married women in Chhattisgarh receive Rs 1,000 into their accounts every month. It has now come to light that one of the accounts where the sum was being deposited was in the name of Sunny Leone.

The man who allegedly opened and operated this account has been identified as Virendra Joshi and a case is being registered against him for further action. Officials responsible for verification of eligible beneficiaries of the scheme are also being identified.

The fraud has been reported at Talur village in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region. District collector Haris S has asked the Women and Child Development Department to carry out an in-depth probe into this matter and seize the bank account for recovery. According to officials, media reports had drawn their attention to this shocking case of fraud.

The revelation has sparked a heated exchange between the ruling BJP and the Opposition Congress.

State Congress chief Deepak Baij has alleged that over 50 per cent of beneficiaries under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana are fake. Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao shot back that the Congress is pained because women of the state are now receiving the monthly assistance that the Congress could not provide in its previous term.

"Congress Should Be Ready...": Mani Shankar Aiyar's Big INDIA Bloc Remark 23 Dec 2024, 6:41 am

The Congress should be ready to not be the leader of the INDIA Opposition bloc, veteran party leader and former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar has said in an interview to The Indian Express. Asked if any other party could lead the INDIA bloc, Mr Aiyar said, "I don't think it's a relevant question. I think the Congress should be ready to not be the leader of the bloc. Let whoever wants to be the leader be the leader. There is competence in Mamata Banerjee... There is competence in others in the alliance."

"So, I don't care who becomes the leader because I think the position of the Congress party and of the Congress leader will always be a major one. It doesn't have to be the only one. It will be the major one in the INDIA bloc. I am sure Rahul (Gandhi) will be treated with even more respect than he would be as the president of the alliance," said the 83-year-old, who has come out with the second volume of his autobiography A Maverick in Politics.

The senior Congress leader's remarks come against the backdrop of a leadership tussle within the Opposition bloc formed last year to take on the BJP's formidable election machinery. The grand alliance strategy worked well in the Lok Sabha election and the ruling BJP was restricted to below the majority mark. The alliance, however, has proved to be tricky in regions where two INDIA partners are electoral rivals. This has drawn attacks from the BJP, which has termed the bloc "opportunistic".

The Congress, which doubled its Lok Sabha election score this time, has since suffered setbacks in Haryana and Maharashtra polls. Soon after the Maharashtra results, Trinamool Congress leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took a veiled swipe at the Grand Old Party. She said "everyone needs to be taken along" as the Opposition bloc moves against the BJP-ruled central government. Asked why she was not taking charge, Ms Banerjee said, "If given the opportunity, I would ensure its smooth functioning. I don't want to go outside Bengal, but I can run it from here."

Veteran Opposition leaders Lalu Prasad Yadav and Sharad Pawar threw their weight behind Ms Banerjee.

"Congress's objection means nothing. We will support Mamata... Mamata Banerjee should be given the leadership (of the INDIA Bloc)," the RJD founder said.

NCP founder Sharad Pawar said, "Yes, certainly (she is capable of leading the alliance). She is a prominent leader of this nation... she has that capability. The elected leaders she sent to Parliament are responsible, dutiful, and well-aware people. Therefore, she has the right to say so."

Earlier, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut had said Mamata Banerjee should be a major partner of the INDIA alliance. "We know this opinion of Mamata ji. We also want her to be a major partner of the INDIA alliance. Whether it is Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal or Shiv Sena, we are all together," he said.

"Congress Should Be Ready...": Mani Shankar Aiyar's Big INDIA Bloc Remark 23 Dec 2024, 6:41 am

The Congress should be ready to not be the leader of the INDIA Opposition bloc, veteran party leader and former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar has said in an interview to The Indian Express. Asked if any other party could lead the INDIA bloc, Mr Aiyar said, "I don't think it's a relevant question. I think the Congress should be ready to not be the leader of the bloc. Let whoever wants to be the leader be the leader. There is competence in Mamata Banerjee... There is competence in others in the alliance."

"So, I don't care who becomes the leader because I think the position of the Congress party and of the Congress leader will always be a major one. It doesn't have to be the only one. It will be the major one in the INDIA bloc. I am sure Rahul (Gandhi) will be treated with even more respect than he would be as the president of the alliance," said the 83-year-old, who has come out with the second volume of his autobiography A Maverick in Politics.

The senior Congress leader's remarks come against the backdrop of a leadership tussle within the Opposition bloc formed last year to take on the BJP's formidable election machinery. The grand alliance strategy worked well in the Lok Sabha election and the ruling BJP was restricted to below the majority mark. The alliance, however, has proved to be tricky in regions where two INDIA partners are electoral rivals. This has drawn attacks from the BJP, which has termed the bloc "opportunistic".

The Congress, which doubled its Lok Sabha election score this time, has since suffered setbacks in Haryana and Maharashtra polls. Soon after the Maharashtra results, Trinamool Congress leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took a veiled swipe at the Grand Old Party. She said "everyone needs to be taken along" as the Opposition bloc moves against the BJP-ruled central government. Asked why she was not taking charge, Ms Banerjee said, "If given the opportunity, I would ensure its smooth functioning. I don't want to go outside Bengal, but I can run it from here."

Veteran Opposition leaders Lalu Prasad Yadav and Sharad Pawar threw their weight behind Ms Banerjee.

"Congress's objection means nothing. We will support Mamata... Mamata Banerjee should be given the leadership (of the INDIA Bloc)," the RJD founder said.

NCP founder Sharad Pawar said, "Yes, certainly (she is capable of leading the alliance). She is a prominent leader of this nation... she has that capability. The elected leaders she sent to Parliament are responsible, dutiful, and well-aware people. Therefore, she has the right to say so."

Earlier, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut had said Mamata Banerjee should be a major partner of the INDIA alliance. "We know this opinion of Mamata ji. We also want her to be a major partner of the INDIA alliance. Whether it is Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal or Shiv Sena, we are all together," he said.

"Congress Should Be Ready...": Mani Shankar Aiyar's Big INDIA Bloc Remark 23 Dec 2024, 6:41 am

The Congress should be ready to not be the leader of the INDIA Opposition bloc, veteran party leader and former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar has said in an interview to The Indian Express. Asked if any other party could lead the INDIA bloc, Mr Aiyar said, "I don't think it's a relevant question. I think the Congress should be ready to not be the leader of the bloc. Let whoever wants to be the leader be the leader. There is competence in Mamata Banerjee... There is competence in others in the alliance."

"So, I don't care who becomes the leader because I think the position of the Congress party and of the Congress leader will always be a major one. It doesn't have to be the only one. It will be the major one in the INDIA bloc. I am sure Rahul (Gandhi) will be treated with even more respect than he would be as the president of the alliance," said the 83-year-old, who has come out with the second volume of his autobiography A Maverick in Politics.

The senior Congress leader's remarks come against the backdrop of a leadership tussle within the Opposition bloc formed last year to take on the BJP's formidable election machinery. The grand alliance strategy worked well in the Lok Sabha election and the ruling BJP was restricted to below the majority mark. The alliance, however, has proved to be tricky in regions where two INDIA partners are electoral rivals. This has drawn attacks from the BJP, which has termed the bloc "opportunistic".

The Congress, which doubled its Lok Sabha election score this time, has since suffered setbacks in Haryana and Maharashtra polls. Soon after the Maharashtra results, Trinamool Congress leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took a veiled swipe at the Grand Old Party. She said "everyone needs to be taken along" as the Opposition bloc moves against the BJP-ruled central government. Asked why she was not taking charge, Ms Banerjee said, "If given the opportunity, I would ensure its smooth functioning. I don't want to go outside Bengal, but I can run it from here."

Veteran Opposition leaders Lalu Prasad Yadav and Sharad Pawar threw their weight behind Ms Banerjee.

"Congress's objection means nothing. We will support Mamata... Mamata Banerjee should be given the leadership (of the INDIA Bloc)," the RJD founder said.

NCP founder Sharad Pawar said, "Yes, certainly (she is capable of leading the alliance). She is a prominent leader of this nation... she has that capability. The elected leaders she sent to Parliament are responsible, dutiful, and well-aware people. Therefore, she has the right to say so."

Earlier, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut had said Mamata Banerjee should be a major partner of the INDIA alliance. "We know this opinion of Mamata ji. We also want her to be a major partner of the INDIA alliance. Whether it is Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal or Shiv Sena, we are all together," he said.

"Congress Should Be Ready...": Mani Shankar Aiyar's Big INDIA Bloc Remark 23 Dec 2024, 6:41 am

The Congress should be ready to not be the leader of the INDIA Opposition bloc, veteran party leader and former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar has said in an interview to The Indian Express. Asked if any other party could lead the INDIA bloc, Mr Aiyar said, "I don't think it's a relevant question. I think the Congress should be ready to not be the leader of the bloc. Let whoever wants to be the leader be the leader. There is competence in Mamata Banerjee... There is competence in others in the alliance."

"So, I don't care who becomes the leader because I think the position of the Congress party and of the Congress leader will always be a major one. It doesn't have to be the only one. It will be the major one in the INDIA bloc. I am sure Rahul (Gandhi) will be treated with even more respect than he would be as the president of the alliance," said the 83-year-old, who has come out with the second volume of his autobiography A Maverick in Politics.

The senior Congress leader's remarks come against the backdrop of a leadership tussle within the Opposition bloc formed last year to take on the BJP's formidable election machinery. The grand alliance strategy worked well in the Lok Sabha election and the ruling BJP was restricted to below the majority mark. The alliance, however, has proved to be tricky in regions where two INDIA partners are electoral rivals. This has drawn attacks from the BJP, which has termed the bloc "opportunistic".

The Congress, which doubled its Lok Sabha election score this time, has since suffered setbacks in Haryana and Maharashtra polls. Soon after the Maharashtra results, Trinamool Congress leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took a veiled swipe at the Grand Old Party. She said "everyone needs to be taken along" as the Opposition bloc moves against the BJP-ruled central government. Asked why she was not taking charge, Ms Banerjee said, "If given the opportunity, I would ensure its smooth functioning. I don't want to go outside Bengal, but I can run it from here."

Veteran Opposition leaders Lalu Prasad Yadav and Sharad Pawar threw their weight behind Ms Banerjee.

"Congress's objection means nothing. We will support Mamata... Mamata Banerjee should be given the leadership (of the INDIA Bloc)," the RJD founder said.

NCP founder Sharad Pawar said, "Yes, certainly (she is capable of leading the alliance). She is a prominent leader of this nation... she has that capability. The elected leaders she sent to Parliament are responsible, dutiful, and well-aware people. Therefore, she has the right to say so."

Earlier, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut had said Mamata Banerjee should be a major partner of the INDIA alliance. "We know this opinion of Mamata ji. We also want her to be a major partner of the INDIA alliance. Whether it is Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal or Shiv Sena, we are all together," he said.

BJP MPs, Injured In Parliament Stand-Off, Discharged From Hospital After 5 Days 23 Dec 2024, 6:39 am

BJP MPs Pratap Chandra Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput were on Monday discharged from Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, five days after they were injured during a stand-off in the Parliament complex.

The MPs were injured on Thursday following a scuffle between the opposition and ruling BJP MPs. Pratap Sarangi (69) from Odisha and Mukesh Rajput from Uttar Pradesh were brought to the hospital from Parliament. Though Mr Sarangi was bleeding profusely when he was brought in, MRI and CT scans did not show significant injury. Both were kept under observation in the ICU and were shifted to private rooms on Saturday.

According to Dr Shukla, Sarangi was bleeding profusely when he was brought in. "He (Mr Sarangi) had a deep cut on his forehead and it had to be stitched," Dr Shukla, Medical Superintendent of RML Hospital, had said. "Rajput also had a head injury immediately after which he lost consciousness. However, the MP was in his senses when he was brought to the hospital. His blood pressure levels had shot up," he had said.

The BJP has accused Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi of physical assault and incitement. S Phangon Konyak, a woman BJP MP from Nagaland, also alleged Mr Gandhi came in her "close proximity" and shouted at her during the protest which made her feel "extremely uncomfortable".

Delhi Police filed an FIR against Mr Gandhi in the case under sections 117 (voluntary causing grievous hurt), 115 (voluntary causing hurt), 125 (act of endangering life or personal safety of others), 131 (use of criminal force), 351 (criminal intimidation), and 3(5) (common intention) of the BNS.

Police will likely record Mr Sarangi and Mr Rajput's statements today, sources had earlier told PTI.

Meanwhile, the Parliament Winter Session saw a series of disruptions over a range of issues, including the Sambhal violence, Manipur unrest and Congress' link with billionaire George Soros. According to PRS Legislative Research, a think tank that studies India's legislatures, the Lok Sabha functioned for 52 per cent of its scheduled time and the Rajya Sabha for 39 per cent of its scheduled time during the Winter Session.

Parliament scuffle: Injured BJP MPs Pratap Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput discharged from hospital 23 Dec 2024, 6:39 am

PV Sindhu Marries Venkatta Datta Sai In Udaipur. First Pic Out 23 Dec 2024, 6:39 am

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu tied knot with her fiance Venkata Datta Sai on Sunday in Udaipur. Beautifully dressed in a traditional wedding attire, the couple exchanged vows in presence of their families and closed ones. Culture and Tourism Minister of Jodhpur, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was also present at the joyous occasion and shared the first picture of the wedding on his X (formerly Twitter) handle. Sindhu and Dutta, who is Hyderabad-based Executive Director at Posidex Technologies, got engaged on Saturday.

Taking to X, Shekhawat wrote, "Pleased to have attended the wedding ceremony of our Badminton Champion Olympian PV Sindhu with Venkatta Datta Sai in Udaipur last evening and conveyed my wishes & blessings to the couple for their new life ahead."

Pleased to have attended the wedding ceremony of our Badminton Champion Olympian PV Sindhu with Venkatta Datta Sai in Udaipur last evening and conveyed my wishes & blessings to the couple for their new life ahead.@Pvsindhu1 pic.twitter.com/hjMwr5m76y

— Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (@gssjodhpur) December 23, 2024

The celebrations are not over yet as the couple will be hosting a reception party in Sindhu's hometown, Hyderabad on December 24.

On December 20, a Sangeet took place and on the next day there Haldi, Pellikuthuru and Mehendi took place.

Talking about the wedding, Sindhu's father had stated that the two families are well acquainted with each other, but the wedding plans came together within a month. The couple chose this date since Sindhu will be busy with training and competitions starting next year.

Recently, Sindhu ended her Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour drought of over two years by defeating China's Wu Luo Yu in the finals of the Syed Modi India International badminton tournament in Lucknow.

In the title clash lasting for 47 minutes, Sindhu defeated Luo Yu by 21-14, 21-16, within two straight games.

This was Sindhu's first BWF World Tour title since the Singapore Open title in July 2022, which was a BWF Super 500 tournament, as compared to Syed Modi India International, which is a BWF Super 300 tournament. In 2023 and this year, she had reached the finals of the Spain Masters and Malaysia Masters but failed to win the title.

(With ANI Inputs)

South Korean acting president faces impeachment threat over Yoon probe delay 23 Dec 2024, 6:38 am

South Korean acting president faces impeachment threat over Yoon probe delay 23 Dec 2024, 6:38 am

Manu Bhaker, double Olympic medalist, not in Khel Ratna nominees list: Sources 23 Dec 2024, 6:38 am

Manu Bhaker, double Olympic medalist, not in Khel Ratna nominees list: Sources 23 Dec 2024, 6:38 am

AIBE 19 exam analysis 2024: Candidates find exam lengthy, conceptual-based 23 Dec 2024, 6:36 am

Steering, Throttle Fault May Be Behind Ferry Crash, Navy Crew Knew: Sources 23 Dec 2024, 6:36 am

The collision between a Navy boat and a passenger ferry off the coast of Mumbai on December 18, which resulted in 15 deaths, was likely caused by a technical malfunction in the steering assembly and in the throttle quadrant which governs the speed of the boat, Navy sources have said. The boat was travelling at a high speed when it made an impact with the tourist ferry. 

A survivor on board the Navy vessel, who belonged to the manufacturer of the boat which was being tested before induction, has indicated that the crew was aware of the malfunction when the collision took place. 

Videos of the incident show an effort being made to steer the craft away from the ferry but the Navy boat was unable to turn away sharply enough to avoid the accident. 

The Navy craft, a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB), was undergoing engine trials at high speed, lost control and collided with the passenger ferry Neel Kamal. The ferry, carrying more than 100 passengers, was en route from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, a popular tourist destination known for its ancient cave temples.

The collision caused the ferry to sink in the Arabian Sea, making it one of the deadliest maritime accidents in the city's harbour. Naval helicopters and boats, along with Coast Guard vessels, were deployed in search and rescue operations following the incident.

Of the 113 individuals aboard the two vessels, 15 died, while 98 others were rescued, including two who were injured. On the Navy craft, which had six crew members, only two survived.

According to records from the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), the Neel Kamal was licensed to carry a maximum of 84 passengers and six crew members. However, the ferry was overloaded at the time of the collision.

The MMB has since cancelled the ferry's licence and launched its own investigation into the matter. A case has been registered against the Navy craft's driver at the Colaba police station under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges related to negligence, endangering public safety and rash navigation. The Navy craft is currently in the custody of naval authorities, though police have indicated they will request access to the vessel as needed for their investigation.

WhatsApp releases full list of Android phones that will stop supporting the app 23 Dec 2024, 6:34 am

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After Panama Canal, Trump now wants US to buy Greenland: 'Absolute necessity' 23 Dec 2024, 6:30 am

After Panama Canal, Trump now wants US to buy Greenland: 'Absolute necessity' 23 Dec 2024, 6:30 am

After Panama Canal, Trump now wants US to buy Greenland: 'Absolute necessity' 23 Dec 2024, 6:30 am

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5 Killed In Bihar Road Rage. It Started With Pick-up Van Slamming Into Child 23 Dec 2024, 6:29 am

At least five people were killed and 6 others injured after a speeding pick-up van rammed them in Bihar's Purnea district.

The incident happened on Sunday night when a speeding pickup van driven by Sonu Kumar rammed into a group of 11 people standing near the Panchayat Bhawan in Dhakwa village, Purnea district. The vehicle initially hit a child, leading to a dispute between Sonu and the villagers.

Following the argument, Sonu allegedly drove his vehicle in a drunken and enraged state, deliberately running over the people.

The injured were rushed to a hospital where five persons lost their lives during treatment. They have been identified as Jyotish Thakur, 50, Sanyukta Devi, 45, Amardeep, 6, Akhilesh,11, and Manisha,11.

Six others, including Rajesh Muni, Abhinandan Muni, Shalu Kumar, Poonam Devi, Twinkle Kumari, and Nikki Devi, received severe injuries. Two remain in critical condition at Purnea Medical College Hospital.

The injured were initially taken to Dhamdaha Sub-divisional Hospital but were later referred to Purnea Medical College Hospital due to their critical conditions. A case has been registered against Sonu Kumar based on the written complaint from the villagers. Police are conducting raids to arrest Sonu, who fled the scene.

Preliminary investigation suggests Sonu was intoxicated at the time of the incident and was driving at a fast speed. Residents have accused Sonu of intentionally targeting the group due to the earlier dispute.

The police officials sent the bodies of the deceased for post-mortem examinations on Monday morning.

Ranjan Kumar, the in-charge of the Dhamdaha Police Station, said, "On the written application of the local people, we have registered an FIR under relevant sections of rash and negligent driving against Sonu Kumar. We are continuously raiding to arrest Sonu Kumar. He has fled from the village. Information has been received that the accused has committed such a big incident over a small dispute. A complaint has been received that he was in a state of intoxication."

New law repackaged sedition, should not be used to stifle dissent: High Court 23 Dec 2024, 6:28 am

"Every Square Metre...": Panama Hits Back At Trump Over Canal Threat 23 Dec 2024, 6:26 am

Panama's president Jose Raul Mulino on Sunday dismissed recent threats made by US President-elect Donald Trump to retake control of the Panama Canal over complaints of "unfair" treatment of American ships.

"Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent areas belongs to Panama and will continue belonging to Panama," Mulino said in a video posted to X.

Mulino's public comments, though never mentioning Trump by name, come a day after the president-elect complained about the canal on his Truth Social platform.

"Our Navy and Commerce have been treated in a very unfair and injudicious way. The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous," he said.

Trump also complained of China's growing influence around the canal, a worrying trend for American interests as US businesses depend on the channel to move goods between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

"It was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else," Trump said. "We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands!"

The Panama Canal, which was completed by the United States in 1914, was returned to the Central American country under a 1977 deal signed by Democratic president Jimmy Carter.

Panama took full control in 1999.

Trump said that if Panama could not ensure "the secure, efficient and reliable operation" of the channel, "then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question."

Mulino rejected Trump's claims in his video message, though he also said he hopes to have "a good and respectful relationship" with the incoming administration.

"The canal has no direct or indirect control from China, nor the European Union, nor the United States or any other power," Mulino said. "As a Panamanian, I reject any manifestation that misrepresents this reality."

Later on Sunday, Trump responded to Mulino's dismissal, writing on Truth Social: "We'll see about that!"

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

"Every Square Metre...": Panama President Hits Back At Trump Over Canal Threat 23 Dec 2024, 6:26 am

Panama's president Jose Raul Mulino on Sunday dismissed recent threats made by US President-elect Donald Trump to retake control of the Panama Canal over complaints of "unfair" treatment of American ships.

"Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent areas belongs to Panama and will continue belonging to Panama," Mulino said in a video posted to X.

Mulino's public comments, though never mentioning Trump by name, come a day after the president-elect complained about the canal on his Truth Social platform.

"Our Navy and Commerce have been treated in a very unfair and injudicious way. The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous," he said.

Trump also complained of China's growing influence around the canal, a worrying trend for American interests as US businesses depend on the channel to move goods between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

"It was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else," Trump said. "We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands!"

The Panama Canal, which was completed by the United States in 1914, was returned to the Central American country under a 1977 deal signed by Democratic president Jimmy Carter.

Panama took full control in 1999.

Trump said that if Panama could not ensure "the secure, efficient and reliable operation" of the channel, "then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question."

Mulino rejected Trump's claims in his video message, though he also said he hopes to have "a good and respectful relationship" with the incoming administration.

"The canal has no direct or indirect control from China, nor the European Union, nor the United States or any other power," Mulino said. "As a Panamanian, I reject any manifestation that misrepresents this reality."

Later on Sunday, Trump responded to Mulino's dismissal, writing on Truth Social: "We'll see about that!"

PM Modi Replies To Debate On Constitution: Top 10 Quotes 23 Dec 2024, 6:25 am

1. It is time to celebrate 75 years of Constitution. I am glad parliament is also part of it.
2. For all of us, for all citizens and for all democracy-loving citizens across the world, this is a moment of great pride.
3. India's democracy has been inspirational for the world, that's why we are the mother of democracy.
4. In our constituent assembly, there were 15 women, and through debate they empowered the discussions, their insights were impactful. It's a matter of pride for us.
5. Many countries became democratic but women were not given rights; our nation gave them from the beginning. We are seeing that women are at the epicentre of every government scheme.
6. It's sad that after Independence, core values of unity were attacked. Instead of celebrating diversity, some began sowing seeds of poison.
7. It is a pride to see a President who is a woman and from the tribal community. Women participate in every sector, and their contribution has been a matter of pride. Every Indian appreciates their contribution, and the inspiration is our Constitution.
8. The makers of the Constitution were sensitive to India's unity and were aware of it. BR Ambedkar had said, 'The problem is how to unify the diverse population of India and bring them together to take decision in unison'
9. If you will see our policies in the last 10 years, Article 370 hindered India's unity and it was our priority to remove it. Unity was our priority.
10. If we have to move forward and if we want FDI, then we have to provide a conducive environment. GST provided economic unity and even the previous government contributed to it. One Nation One Tax is our goal.

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US: Video Shows Drones Collide, Fall Onto Crowd At Holiday Show In Florida, Several Injured 23 Dec 2024, 6:20 am

Several people were injured, including a 7-year-old boy, after drones at a Christmas show in the United States' Florida collided mid-air and fell at high speed at the crowd below. Mothers of the young boy, who was reportedly struck in the face by a rogue drone, said he was clinging to life.

The boy was transported to the hospital and was "fighting for his life in the ER," according to a report by the New York Post. 

The video of the holiday display going wrong was posted online by X user MosquitoCoFl, which shows hundreds of drones flying in a pattern as part of the aerial light show before several started colliding and falling from the sky to the ground.

So apparently they had to cancel the 2nd drone show at #LakeEolaPark tonight and I wonder if the drones that got knocked out during the 1st show was the cause ? #Orlando pic.twitter.com/xxySjbkohy

— MosquitoCoFL Podcast (@MosquitoCoFL) December 22, 2024

In the background, a man can be heard saying, "Oh no! I don't believe they're supposed to be falling." In the lake below, geese could be seen flapping their wings while trying to get out of the way of the chaotic scene.

The show was run by Sky Elements Drones in partnership with the City of Orlando. Andrea Otero, the city's public information manager, told People magazine, "We are in contact with the vendor to determine what occurred with the operation. FAA is handling the investigation."

According to a report by Fox News, the holiday drone show was permitted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

"Several small drones collided and fell into a crowd during a holiday drone show over [Eola] Lake in Orlando, Florida," the FAA said, according to the Fox News report. 

Drone arrays and light shows are subject to FAA regulations and typically require a waiver of a regulation that prohibits operating more than one drone at a time.

The incident reportedly occurred around 6:45 p.m. local time on Saturday, December 21, following which a second show scheduled that night at 8 p.m. was also cancelled due to "technical difficulties."

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Video Shows Drones Collide, Fall Onto Crowd At Holiday Show In US 23 Dec 2024, 6:19 am

Several people were injured, including a 7-year-old boy, after drones at a Christmas show in the United States' Florida collided mid-air and fell at high speed at the crowd below. Mothers of the young boy, who was reportedly struck in the face by a rogue drone, said he was clinging to life.

The boy was transported to the hospital and was "fighting for his life in the ER," according to a report by the New York Post. 

The video of the holiday display going wrong was posted online by X user MosquitoCoFl, which shows hundreds of drones flying in a pattern as part of the aerial light show before several started colliding and falling from the sky to the ground.

So apparently they had to cancel the 2nd drone show at #LakeEolaPark tonight and I wonder if the drones that got knocked out during the 1st show was the cause ? #Orlando pic.twitter.com/xxySjbkohy

— MosquitoCoFL Podcast (@MosquitoCoFL) December 22, 2024

In the background, a man can be heard saying, "Oh no! I don't believe they're supposed to be falling." In the lake below, geese could be seen flapping their wings while trying to get out of the way of the chaotic scene.

The show was run by Sky Elements Drones in partnership with the City of Orlando. Andrea Otero, the city's public information manager, told People magazine, "We are in contact with the vendor to determine what occurred with the operation. FAA is handling the investigation."

According to a report by Fox News, the holiday drone show was permitted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

"Several small drones collided and fell into a crowd during a holiday drone show over [Eola] Lake in Orlando, Florida," the FAA said, according to the Fox News report. 

Drone arrays and light shows are subject to FAA regulations and typically require a waiver of a regulation that prohibits operating more than one drone at a time.

The incident reportedly occurred around 6:45 p.m. local time on Saturday, December 21, following which a second show scheduled that night at 8 p.m. was also cancelled due to "technical difficulties."

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BJP MPs, Injured In Parliament Stand-Off, Discharged From Hospital After 5 Days 23 Dec 2024, 6:14 am

BJP MPs Pratap Chandra Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput were on Monday discharged from Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, five days after they were injured during a stand-off in the Parliament complex.

The MPs were injured on Thursday following a scuffle between the opposition and ruling BJP MPs. Pratap Sarangi (69) from Odisha and Mukesh Rajput from Uttar Pradesh were brought to the hospital from Parliament. Though Mr Sarangi was bleeding profusely when he was brought in, MRI and CT scans did not show significant injury. Both were kept under observation in the ICU and were shifted to private rooms on Saturday.

According to Dr Shukla, Sarangi was bleeding profusely when he was brought in. "He (Mr Sarangi) had a deep cut on his forehead and it had to be stitched," Dr Shukla, Medical Superintendent of RML Hospital, had said. "Rajput also had a head injury immediately after which he lost consciousness. However, the MP was in his senses when he was brought to the hospital. His blood pressure levels had shot up," he had said.

The BJP has accused Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi of physical assault and incitement. S Phangon Konyak, a woman BJP MP from Nagaland, also alleged Mr Gandhi came in her "close proximity" and shouted at her during the protest which made her feel "extremely uncomfortable".

Delhi Police filed an FIR against Mr Gandhi in the case under sections 117 (voluntary causing grievous hurt), 115 (voluntary causing hurt), 125 (act of endangering life or personal safety of others), 131 (use of criminal force), 351 (criminal intimidation), and 3(5) (common intention) of the BNS.

Police will likely record Mr Sarangi and Mr Rajput's statements today, sources had earlier told PTI.

Meanwhile, the Parliament Winter Session saw a series of disruptions over a range of issues, including the Sambhal violence, Manipur unrest and Congress' link with billionaire George Soros. According to PRS Legislative Research, a think tank that studies India's legislatures, the Lok Sabha functioned for 52 per cent of its scheduled time and the Rajya Sabha for 39 per cent of its scheduled time during the Winter Session.

Palestinian Woman, 80, Shot Dead By Israeli Troops In West Bank, Claims Son 23 Dec 2024, 6:12 am

An 80-year-old Palestinian woman was shot six times by Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) during a raid in the Balata camp in Nablus last week, her son said. Halima Abu Leil was out to buy groceries, her son said, adding the elderly woman “fell to her knees,” after being shot in the leg and chest on December 19, Sky News reported.

The IDF said they were aware of reports that “uninvolved civilians present in the area were harmed” during the raid, which targeted a suspected terrorist in the camp. The military said the operation involved exchanges of gunfire with militants who reportedly opened fire and threw explosives at IDF soldiers. But no Israeli casualties were reported.

Halima's son, who preferred to remain anonymous for safety reasons, expressed outrage over the shooting, saying his mother's frailty and health issues should have made her a non-threat to the soldiers. “My mum was elderly and had cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure. They could see she was an old woman – why would they fire at her?” he asked.

Halima's daughter also shared her grief, recalling her mother was shot after being struck in her legs, which caused her to kneel before she was fatally shot in the chest. She has herself experienced the pain of loss before, as both of her sons are no longer with her – one was killed last year, and the other incarcerated.

“What law is this? Children and pregnant women are killed. Our sons leave the house and don't come back. They can see she's an elderly lady but they shot her six times – in her legs, in her chest. When she was first shot in her legs, she knelt on the ground,” Halima's daughter told Sky News.

Tensions remain high in the camp following the incident. The streets are still littered with mounds of dirt and shattered glass. Many locals, including those in the mosque where Halima's son prayed the following day, remain fearful of further military action, with one man stating, “These are just young men with guns – meagre protection in the face of Israeli military hardware. What's an M16 to a tank?”

The IDF said the raid was part of a broader counterterrorism operation in the area. “Early on Thursday, the IDF conducted a counterterrorism activity to apprehend an individual suspected of terror activity in the area of Balata in Nablus. During the activity, the IDF soldiers engaged in exchanges of fire with terrorists who opened fire and hurled explosives toward IDF soldiers. Hits were identified. In addition, IDF soldiers encircled a structure in which terrorists barricaded themselves. No IDF injuries were reported,” the IDF statement read.

For Halima's family and others in the camp, her death was just one more in a long series of personal losses. “Every single Palestinian is targeted, no one is exempt. Not children, not the elderly, no one,” said Halima's son, echoing the sentiment of many who feel oppressed.

3 Khalistani Terrorists, Who Attacked Punjab Cops, Killed In UP Encounter 23 Dec 2024, 6:10 am

Three terrorists accused of lobbing a grenade at a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur have been gunned down in an encounter with police in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit, sources have said. The gunfight between the three criminals and a joint team of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab police took place last night. The cops tried to arrest them, but the criminals opened fire. The injured criminals -- Gurwinder Singh, Virendra Singh and Jasanpreet Singh -- died of the injuries, sources have said. Two rifles of the AK series and as many Glock pistols have been recovered from them.

Punjab Police has said the three are part of a Pakistan-sponsored module of Khalistan Zindabad Force. "This terror module is involved in grenade attacks at police establishments in border areas of Punjab. The encounter has taken place in the jurisdiction of PS Puranpur, Pilibhit, between the joint police teams of Pilibhit & Punjab and the three module members are involved in the grenade attack on a police post in Gurdaspur," Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav said in a post on X. "Investigations are in progress to unveil the entire terror module," he added.

Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar told NDTV described it as a "daredevil" job and a good example of coordination between Uttar Pradesh and Punjab police.

Three police stations in Punjab were targeted within a week and security agencies suspect the role of Khalistani terrorists. While Bangar police post in Gurdaspur was targeted on Friday, a blast occurred at Islamabad police station in Amritsar on Tuesday. A blast had also taken place outside Bakshiwal police post. also in Gurdaspur. No one was injured in these explosions.

An unverified post circulating on social media said terror outfit Khalistan Zindabad Force had claimed responsibility for the blasts.

According to sources, the terrorists had come to Pilibhit -- about 750 km from Gurdaspur -- to find a hideout in the area that has a significant Sikh population. But Uttar Pradesh police have said they got complete support of the locals.  

3 Khalistani Terrorists, Who Attacked Punjab Cops, Killed In UP Encounter 23 Dec 2024, 6:10 am

Three terrorists accused of lobbing a grenade at a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur have been gunned down in an encounter with police in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit, sources have said. The gunfight between the three criminals and a joint team of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab police took place last night. The cops tried to arrest them, but the criminals opened fire. The injured criminals -- Gurwinder Singh, Virendra Singh and Jasanpreet Singh -- died of the injuries, sources have said. Two rifles of the AK series and as many Glock pistols have been recovered from them.

Punjab Police has said the three are part of a Pakistan-sponsored module of Khalistan Zindabad Force. "This terror module is involved in grenade attacks at police establishments in border areas of Punjab. The encounter has taken place in the jurisdiction of PS Puranpur, Pilibhit, between the joint police teams of Pilibhit & Punjab and the three module members are involved in the grenade attack on a police post in Gurdaspur," Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav said in a post on X. "Investigations are in progress to unveil the entire terror module," he added.

Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar told NDTV described it as a "daredevil" job and a good example of coordination between Uttar Pradesh and Punjab police.

Three police stations in Punjab were targeted within a week and security agencies suspect the role of Khalistani terrorists. While Bangar police post in Gurdaspur was targeted on Friday, a blast occurred at Islamabad police station in Amritsar on Tuesday. A blast had also taken place outside Bakshiwal police post. also in Gurdaspur. No one was injured in these explosions.

An unverified post circulating on social media said terror outfit Khalistan Zindabad Force had claimed responsibility for the blasts.

According to sources, the terrorists had come to Pilibhit -- about 750 km from Gurdaspur -- to find a hideout in the area that has a significant Sikh population. But Uttar Pradesh police have said they got complete support of the locals.  

3 Khalistani Terrorists, Who Attacked Punjab Cops, Killed In UP Encounter 23 Dec 2024, 6:10 am

Three terrorists accused of lobbing a grenade at a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur have been gunned down in an encounter with police in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit, sources have said. The gunfight between the three criminals and a joint team of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab police took place last night. The cops tried to arrest them, but the criminals opened fire. The injured criminals -- Gurwinder Singh, Virendra Singh and Jasanpreet Singh -- died of the injuries, sources have said. Two rifles of the AK series and as many Glock pistols have been recovered from them.

Punjab Police has said the three are part of a Pakistan-sponsored module of Khalistan Zindabad Force. "This terror module is involved in grenade attacks at police establishments in border areas of Punjab. The encounter has taken place in the jurisdiction of PS Puranpur, Pilibhit, between the joint police teams of Pilibhit & Punjab and the three module members are involved in the grenade attack on a police post in Gurdaspur," Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav said in a post on X. "Investigations are in progress to unveil the entire terror module," he added.

Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar told NDTV described it as a "daredevil" job and a good example of coordination between Uttar Pradesh and Punjab police.

Three police stations in Punjab were targeted within a week and security agencies suspect the role of Khalistani terrorists. While Bangar police post in Gurdaspur was targeted on Friday, a blast occurred at Islamabad police station in Amritsar on Tuesday. A blast had also taken place outside Bakshiwal police post. also in Gurdaspur. No one was injured in these explosions.

An unverified post circulating on social media said terror outfit Khalistan Zindabad Force had claimed responsibility for the blasts.

According to sources, the terrorists had come to Pilibhit -- about 750 km from Gurdaspur -- to find a hideout in the area that has a significant Sikh population. But Uttar Pradesh police have said they got complete support of the locals.  

Manu Bhaker Surprise Absentee From Khel Ratna Nominations, Reason Is... 23 Dec 2024, 6:10 am

The year 2024 has been a memorable year for Indian sports as many athletes showed their true caliber and brought accolades for the country. From India's magnificent win at the T20 World Cup to Manu Bhaker's historic double medal victory at the Paris Olympics, Indian sports reached new heights. Just like every year, the Indian government will be giving the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award to celebrate and honour the achievements of these athletes and some nominees of the same have been revealed. 

India men's hockey team captain and ace drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh has been recommended for India's highest sporting honour. Under Harmanpreet's captaincy, India clinched the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics in men's hockey. 

Para-athlete Praveen Kumar has also been nominated for the Khel Ratna award. Praveen won gold in the men's high jump T64 class with an Asian record at the Paris Paralympics. 

In a shocking turn of events, India's shooter and double-medal winner Manu Bhaker's name is not in the list of the recommendations for the Khel Ratna. 

As per a report by the Times of India, the officials of the sports ministry have stated that Bhaker did not apply for the award. However, the report quoted a source saying that Manu's family said that she had indeed sent in her application.

If an athlete does not register for the award, then the selection committee can take a suo moto cognizance, depending on the achievements of the sportsperson. 

Earlier, India pacer Mohammed Shami also did not apply for the Arjuna Award but he was nominated at the request of the BCCI. For Shami, the National Sports Day awards committee took suo moto cognizance.

Apart from this, Congress MP Vijay Vasanth took to his official social media handle and urged the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya to felicitate former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin with the Khel Ratna Award.

India's celebrated off-spinner Ashwin revealed his decision to retire from international cricket moments after the Brisbane Test ended in a draw last week.

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Who Is Sriram Krishnan, Indian-American Appointed Donald Trump's AI Advisor 23 Dec 2024, 6:07 am

US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Indian-American entrepreneur and venture capitalist Sriram Krishnan as the senior White House policy advisor on artificial intelligence (AI). In a statement, Trump said Krishnan would shape and coordinate AI policy across the government. His work entails “working with the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.” The 78-year-old also mentioned Krishnan's career, particularly his accomplishments as a founding member of Microsoft's Windows Azure team.

I am pleased to announce the brilliant Team that will be working in conjunction with our White House A.I. & Crypto Czar, David O. Sacks. Together, we will unleash scientific breakthroughs, ensure America's technological dominance, and usher in a Golden Age of American Innovation!…

— Trump Posts on ???? (@trump_repost) December 22, 2024

Mr Krishnan, sharing his excitement, said he would collaborate with David O. Sacks, the former COO of PayPal, the White House AI & Crypto Czar.

???????? I'm honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks.

Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this opportunity. pic.twitter.com/kw1n0IKK2a

— Sriram Krishnan (@sriramk) December 22, 2024

5 key points about Sriram Krishnan:

1) Sriram Krishnan was born in Chennai, and he completed his BTech in Information Technology from SRM Engineering College in Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. He moved to the US in 2005 at the age of 21. His father worked in insurance, and his mother was a homemaker.

2) Mr Krishnan's journey in the tech world began at Microsoft in 2005. He also led product teams at Twitter, Yahoo!, Facebook and Snap. He developed mobile ad products during his tenure at Facebook (now Meta) and Snap.

3) He shares a professional bond with billionaire Elon Musk, who is also a part of Trump 2.0. Mr Krishnan worked with Musk to revamp Twitter (now X) after its acquisition in 2022. The entrepreneur has also been an advocate for leveraging technology to solve challenges between AI-driven models, like OpenAI's ChatGPT, and large internet platforms.

4) In February 2021, Krishnan became a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), a venture capital firm. By 2023, he was leading the company's London office. Krishnan left the organisation in November 2023.

5) He also gained recognition in 2021 as host of the podcast ‘The Aarthi and Sriram Show' (formerly known as ‘The Good Time Show'). Mr Krishnan works on it with his wife, Aarthi Ramamurthy.

Who Is Sriram Krishnan, Indian-American Appointed Donald Trump's AI Advisor 23 Dec 2024, 6:07 am

US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Indian-American entrepreneur and venture capitalist Sriram Krishnan as the senior White House policy advisor on artificial intelligence (AI). In a statement, Trump said Krishnan would shape and coordinate AI policy across the government. His work entails “working with the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.” The 78-year-old also mentioned Krishnan's career, particularly his accomplishments as a founding member of Microsoft's Windows Azure team.

I am pleased to announce the brilliant Team that will be working in conjunction with our White House A.I. & Crypto Czar, David O. Sacks. Together, we will unleash scientific breakthroughs, ensure America's technological dominance, and usher in a Golden Age of American Innovation!…

— Trump Posts on ???? (@trump_repost) December 22, 2024

Mr Krishnan, sharing his excitement, said he would collaborate with David O. Sacks, the former COO of PayPal, the White House AI & Crypto Czar.

???????? I'm honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks.

Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this opportunity. pic.twitter.com/kw1n0IKK2a

— Sriram Krishnan (@sriramk) December 22, 2024

5 key points about Sriram Krishnan:

1) Sriram Krishnan was born in Chennai, and he completed his BTech in Information Technology from SRM Engineering College in Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. He moved to the US in 2005 at the age of 21. His father worked in insurance, and his mother was a homemaker.

2) Mr Krishnan's journey in the tech world began at Microsoft in 2005. He also led product teams at Twitter, Yahoo!, Facebook and Snap. He developed mobile ad products during his tenure at Facebook (now Meta) and Snap.

3) He shares a professional bond with billionaire Elon Musk, who is also a part of Trump 2.0. Mr Krishnan worked with Musk to revamp Twitter (now X) after its acquisition in 2022. The entrepreneur has also been an advocate for leveraging technology to solve challenges between AI-driven models, like OpenAI's ChatGPT, and large internet platforms.

4) In February 2021, Krishnan became a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), a venture capital firm. By 2023, he was leading the company's London office. Krishnan left the organisation in November 2023.

5) He also gained recognition in 2021 as host of the podcast ‘The Aarthi and Sriram Show' (formerly known as ‘The Good Time Show'). Mr Krishnan works on it with his wife, Aarthi Ramamurthy.

Sensex jumps 800 points: 3 factors behind today's stock market rally 23 Dec 2024, 6:06 am

Chess star Tania Sachdev calls out Delhi government for lack of support to sport 23 Dec 2024, 6:06 am

Isro is launching a robotic arm with Spadex in space 23 Dec 2024, 6:04 am

Rozgar Mela: PM Modi distributes 71,000 appointment letters to new recruits 23 Dec 2024, 6:04 am

"It's Love...": Kate Middleton's Christmas Message After A Difficult Year 23 Dec 2024, 6:02 am

Kate Middleton, a member of the British royal family, has recorded a heartfelt message for the annual Christmas carol service, reflecting on the profound connections that unite us all.

According to The Sun newspaper, Kate, who has made limited public appearances throughout 2024 after announcing earlier this year that she was undergoing chemotherapy, recorded the message for the carol service she hosts. The event will be televised in the UK on Christmas Eve, Deadline reported.

In her statement at the start of the event, she says: "Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year. It's a time for presents, tinsel, and mince pies, but it's also a time to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all."

She adds: "It is love which is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas, but every day of our lives."

Notably, in March, Kate Middleton posted a video on social media revealing she had undergone major abdominal surgery in January, which was successful. However, subsequent tests detected the presence of cancer.

On Monday, Kate shared another video message on social media, stating: "A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales. As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment."

She continued: "The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant, and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and unknown road ahead."

Describing her cancer journey as "complex," the Princess of Wales further remarked: "The cancer journey is complex, scary, and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you. With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything."

"It's Love...": Kate Middleton's Christmas Message After A Difficult Year 23 Dec 2024, 6:02 am

Kate Middleton, a member of the British royal family, has recorded a heartfelt message for the annual Christmas carol service, reflecting on the profound connections that unite us all.

According to The Sun newspaper, Kate, who has made limited public appearances throughout 2024 after announcing earlier this year that she was undergoing chemotherapy, recorded the message for the carol service she hosts. The event will be televised in the UK on Christmas Eve, Deadline reported.

In her statement at the start of the event, she says: "Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year. It's a time for presents, tinsel, and mince pies, but it's also a time to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all."

She adds: "It is love which is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas, but every day of our lives."

Notably, in March, Kate Middleton posted a video on social media revealing she had undergone major abdominal surgery in January, which was successful. However, subsequent tests detected the presence of cancer.

On Monday, Kate shared another video message on social media, stating: "A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales. As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment."

She continued: "The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant, and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and unknown road ahead."

Describing her cancer journey as "complex," the Princess of Wales further remarked: "The cancer journey is complex, scary, and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you. With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Drones fall from sky at Florida Christmas event: Watch wild video of mid-air collision 23 Dec 2024, 6:02 am

Rozgar Mela: PM Modi Distributes 71,000 Appointment Letters To New Recruits 23 Dec 2024, 6:02 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed over 71,000 appointment letters to newly recruited individuals via video conferencing on Monday.

The event was part of the Centre's Rozgar Mela initiative, aimed at empowering youth through job creation and fostering meaningful participation in nation-building.

Addressing the gathering, PM Modi extended his congratulations to the recruits and their families, saying, "I met Indian youth and professionals in Kuwait, and now I am interacting with the youngsters of the nation. Today marks a new beginning for your journey. Your years of hard work have borne fruit."

He underscored the government's achievements in leveraging India's youth potential, stating, "Through Rozgar Mela, we are advancing this initiative. Over the past ten years, the campaign for providing jobs in government departments, ministries, and organisations has been ongoing. Today, over 71,000 youth have received their appointment letters."

Highlighting the transparent recruitment process, he added, "In the last decade, our government has provided permanent government jobs to over 10 lakh youth, a record in itself. Unlike previous governments, today, not only are lakhs of youth receiving government jobs but these appointments are being made with full transparency. I am confident the youth selected through this process will dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to the nation."

Reaffirming the Centre's commitment to the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047', PM Modi attributed the country's progress to the youth's hard work, talent, and leadership.

He cited initiatives like Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, Startup India, and Digital India as examples of policies shaped by young minds.

"Today, India stands as the world's fifth-largest economy and third-largest startup ecosystem. Youth launching startups now have access to a well-planned ecosystem for support. In sports, modern facilities for training and tournaments ensure confidence among our young athletes. Across sectors, we are witnessing remarkable transformation," he said.

The Prime Minister also emphasized India's achievements in manufacturing, renewable energy, tourism, space exploration, organic farming, defence, and wellness. He praised the advancements brought by the National Education Policy (NEP), Atal Tinkering Labs, and PM Shri Schools, which benefit rural and underprivileged students.

Invoking Chaudhary Charan Singh's legacy on 'Kisan Diwas', PM Modi highlighted the Centre's efforts for rural development and farmer upliftment.

He mentioned employment-focused schemes like Bima Suraksha, Lakhpati Didi, and Drone Didi, aimed at empowering rural areas and farmers.

He also lauded the participation of women in the Rozgar Mela, saying, "Today, many women have received their appointment letters. I hope they inspire others. Schemes such as Sukanya Samruddhi Yojana, Jan Dhan Bank accounts, and Mudra Yojana enable women to pursue education without financial worries."

The Prime Minister also mentioned that under the PM Awas Yojana, maximum houses are under the name of women.

The Rozgar Mela is being conducted at 45 locations across the country, with recruitments for various ministries and departments, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Posts, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Department of Financial Services.

According to a government release, the Rozgar Mela aligns with the Prime Minister's commitment to employment generation, offering meaningful opportunities for youth to contribute to nation-building and self-empowerment.

Musical Duo Sachet-Parampara Celebrate Parenthood, Introduce Baby Boy To The World 23 Dec 2024, 6:00 am

Flyers say booze ran out on debut Air India Surat-Bangkok flight, officials deny 23 Dec 2024, 5:59 am

Ukraine Drone Hits Russia's High-Rise Building 1,000 Km From Frontline 23 Dec 2024, 5:58 am

Kyiv on Saturday staged a major drone attack on the Russian city of Kazan, 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) from the frontier, the latest in a series of escalating aerial attacks in the nearly three-year conflict.

A drone smashed into a high-rise apartment building in Kazan, a city of more than 1.3 million, damaging a skyscraper but leaving no victims, local officials said.

Though attacks so far into Russian territory are rare, Kazan and the surrounding oil-rich region of Tatarstan have previously been targeted by Ukrainian drones.

Such strikes are seen as embarrassing for Russia, almost three years into its military offensive on Ukraine.

"Today Kazan suffered a massive drone attack," Rustam Minnikhanov, the head of Tatarstan, said in a post on Telegram.

"While before industrial enterprises were attacked, now the enemy attacks civilians in the morning," he added.

Videos on Russian social media networks showed drones hitting high rise buildings and setting off fireballs.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said two drones hit a 37-storey apartment block.

She said Ukraine had been targeting an unspecified industrial facility, but that it suffered no damage.

Ukraine, which has staged regular attacks on targets inside Russia since the start of the full scale military offensive in February 2022, did not immediately comment.

Russian civil aviation authority Rosaviatsia temporarily closed Kazan international airport, one of the country's busiest.

Some residents were evacuated, but authorities did not provide figures, and all major public events in the area were cancelled as a precaution.

Alongside the two drones that hit the apartment block, three drones were shot down and three were suppressed by air defence systems, Zakharova said. 

In a post on Telegram, she said Kyiv was taking out its "anger for tangible military defeats on the peaceful population of Russia."

Russia's defence ministry said Saturday that the army had captured a new village near the key city of Kurakhove in eastern Ukraine where Russian forces have made major advances in recent months.

The attack on Kazan comes a day after Russian strikes on the Ukrainian capital Kyiv killed one and wounded 13, and after five were killed by a Ukrainian attack on the Russian border region of Kursk, where its troops have been staging an offensive since August.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ukraine Drone Hits Russia's High-Rise Building 1,000 Km From Frontline 23 Dec 2024, 5:58 am

Kyiv on Saturday staged a major drone attack on the Russian city of Kazan, 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) from the frontier, the latest in a series of escalating aerial attacks in the nearly three-year conflict.

A drone smashed into a high-rise apartment building in Kazan, a city of more than 1.3 million, damaging a skyscraper but leaving no victims, local officials said.

Though attacks so far into Russian territory are rare, Kazan and the surrounding oil-rich region of Tatarstan have previously been targeted by Ukrainian drones.

Such strikes are seen as embarrassing for Russia, almost three years into its military offensive on Ukraine.

"Today Kazan suffered a massive drone attack," Rustam Minnikhanov, the head of Tatarstan, said in a post on Telegram.

"While before industrial enterprises were attacked, now the enemy attacks civilians in the morning," he added.

Videos on Russian social media networks showed drones hitting high rise buildings and setting off fireballs.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said two drones hit a 37-storey apartment block.

She said Ukraine had been targeting an unspecified industrial facility, but that it suffered no damage.

Ukraine, which has staged regular attacks on targets inside Russia since the start of the full scale military offensive in February 2022, did not immediately comment.

Russian civil aviation authority Rosaviatsia temporarily closed Kazan international airport, one of the country's busiest.

Some residents were evacuated, but authorities did not provide figures, and all major public events in the area were cancelled as a precaution.

Alongside the two drones that hit the apartment block, three drones were shot down and three were suppressed by air defence systems, Zakharova said. 

In a post on Telegram, she said Kyiv was taking out its "anger for tangible military defeats on the peaceful population of Russia."

Russia's defence ministry said Saturday that the army had captured a new village near the key city of Kurakhove in eastern Ukraine where Russian forces have made major advances in recent months.

The attack on Kazan comes a day after Russian strikes on the Ukrainian capital Kyiv killed one and wounded 13, and after five were killed by a Ukrainian attack on the Russian border region of Kursk, where its troops have been staging an offensive since August.

Dune Prophecy's showrunner says Tabu was always on radar: I adore her 23 Dec 2024, 5:53 am

3 Marriages, Rs 1.25 Crore: How 'Looting Bride' Targeted Rich Men 23 Dec 2024, 5:49 am

A woman, described by the police as "looteri Dulhan" or looting bride, has been arrested over a decade after she married a series of men and collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore from them in the name of settlement.

Seema, aka Nikki, a resident of Uttarakhand, first married a businessman from Agra in 2013. Some time later, she filed a case against the man's family and received Rs 75 lakh as part of a compromise.

In 2017, Seema married a software engineer from Gurugram and later took Rs 10 lakh from the man as settlement after parting ways with him.

She then went on to marry a Jaipur-based businessman in 2023, but soon fled his home with jewellery and cash worth Rs 36 lakh. After the family filed a case, Jaipur Police arrested Seema.

Police investigation revealed that Seema looked for her victims on matrimonial sites, usually settling for men who were either divorced or had lost their wives. By marrying in different states, she collected a total of Rs 1.25 crore as settlement in various cases.

Bashar Al-Assad's Wife Files For Divorce, Wants To Return To UK: Report 23 Dec 2024, 5:46 am

Asma al-Assad, wife of deposed Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, has filed for divorce and expressed her desire to return to the United Kingdom, reports The Jerusalem Post quoting Turkish and Arab media sources. The report said that Asma al-Assad is dissatisfied with her life in Moscow, where the Assads have resided in exile. Asma has allegedly applied to a Russian court seeking special permission to leave the country, with her application currently under review by Russian authorities.

Born in London in 1975 to Syrian parents, Asma al-Assad holds dual British-Syrian citizenship. She completed degrees in computer science and French literature at King's College London before pursuing a career in investment banking. Asma married Bashar al-Assad in December 2000. 

The couple has three children: Hafez, Zein, and Karim. Asma has reportedly sought to exile herself in London with her children since the Syrian uprising began.

Bashar al-Assad, now residing under asylum in Moscow, faces severe restrictions imposed by Russian authorities. Although his asylum request has been accepted, he is prohibited from leaving Moscow or engaging in political activities. Russian authorities have also frozen his assets, which include 270 kilograms of gold, $2 billion in cash, and 18 properties in Moscow, reports claim.

The Assad dynasty, which ruled Syria for over five decades, has seen its control unravel. Rebel forces breached the capital, Damascus, forcing Bashar to flee and effectively ending the family's grip on power. The Assads- an Alawite family - historically dominated a predominantly Sunni nation, with their rule beginning in 1970 under Bashar's father, Hafez al-Assad. Hafez came to power through a military coup, consolidating authority during a period of political instability in Syria.

Bashar al-Assad's rule relied heavily on a tightly-knit "inner circle," composed of family members who held key positions of influence and power.

Bashar's younger brother, Maher al-Assad, as commander of Syria's Republican Guard and the 4th Armoured Division, Maher oversaw military operations and maintained an alliance with Iran. He also directed the Shabiha militia, a group notorious for protecting regime interests through violent means. Maher has been sanctioned by the EU for his role in the suppression of protesters and is linked to the 2005 assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.

Bushra al-Assad, Bashar's only sister, served as her brother's secretary and married General Asef Shawkat, a key military figure, in 1995. Bushra reportedly clashed with Asma over the latter's public prominence, preferring to keep the "First Lady" title associated with her mother, Anisa.

Rami Makhlouf, a first cousin of Bashar, controlled a significant portion of Syria's economy. With interests in telecommunications, retail, and energy, he was Syria's wealthiest man. 
Asef Shawkat
 

Bashar Al-Assad's Wife Files For Divorce, Wants To Return To UK: Report 23 Dec 2024, 5:46 am

Asma al-Assad, wife of deposed Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, has filed for divorce and expressed her desire to return to the United Kingdom, reports The Jerusalem Post quoting Turkish and Arab media sources. The report said that Asma al-Assad is dissatisfied with her life in Moscow, where the Assads have resided in exile. Asma has allegedly applied to a Russian court seeking special permission to leave the country, with her application currently under review by Russian authorities.

Born in London in 1975 to Syrian parents, Asma al-Assad holds dual British-Syrian citizenship. She completed degrees in computer science and French literature at King's College London before pursuing a career in investment banking. Asma married Bashar al-Assad in December 2000. 

The couple has three children: Hafez, Zein, and Karim. Asma has reportedly sought to exile herself in London with her children since the Syrian uprising began.

Bashar al-Assad, now residing under asylum in Moscow, faces severe restrictions imposed by Russian authorities. Although his asylum request has been accepted, he is prohibited from leaving Moscow or engaging in political activities. Russian authorities have also frozen his assets, which include 270 kilograms of gold, $2 billion in cash, and 18 properties in Moscow, reports claim.

The Assad dynasty, which ruled Syria for over five decades, has seen its control unravel. Rebel forces breached the capital, Damascus, forcing Bashar to flee and effectively ending the family's grip on power. The Assads- an Alawite family - historically dominated a predominantly Sunni nation, with their rule beginning in 1970 under Bashar's father, Hafez al-Assad. Hafez came to power through a military coup, consolidating authority during a period of political instability in Syria.

Bashar al-Assad's rule relied heavily on a tightly-knit "inner circle," composed of family members who held key positions of influence and power.

Bashar's younger brother, Maher al-Assad, as commander of Syria's Republican Guard and the 4th Armoured Division, Maher oversaw military operations and maintained an alliance with Iran. He also directed the Shabiha militia, a group notorious for protecting regime interests through violent means. Maher has been sanctioned by the EU for his role in the suppression of protesters and is linked to the 2005 assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.

Bushra al-Assad, Bashar's only sister, served as her brother's secretary and married General Asef Shawkat, a key military figure, in 1995. Bushra reportedly clashed with Asma over the latter's public prominence, preferring to keep the "First Lady" title associated with her mother, Anisa.

Rami Makhlouf, a first cousin of Bashar, controlled a significant portion of Syria's economy. With interests in telecommunications, retail, and energy, he was Syria's wealthiest man. 
Asef Shawkat
 

Bashar Al-Assad's Wife Files For Divorce, Wants To Return To UK: Report 23 Dec 2024, 5:46 am

Asma al-Assad, wife of deposed Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, has filed for divorce and expressed her desire to return to the United Kingdom, reports The Jerusalem Post quoting Turkish and Arab media sources. The report said that Asma al-Assad is dissatisfied with her life in Moscow, where the Assads have resided in exile. Asma has allegedly applied to a Russian court seeking special permission to leave the country, with her application currently under review by Russian authorities.

Born in London in 1975 to Syrian parents, Asma al-Assad holds dual British-Syrian citizenship. She completed degrees in computer science and French literature at King's College London before pursuing a career in investment banking. Asma married Bashar al-Assad in December 2000. 

The couple has three children: Hafez, Zein, and Karim. Asma has reportedly sought to exile herself in London with her children since the Syrian uprising began.

Bashar al-Assad, now residing under asylum in Moscow, faces severe restrictions imposed by Russian authorities. Although his asylum request has been accepted, he is prohibited from leaving Moscow or engaging in political activities. Russian authorities have also frozen his assets, which include 270 kilograms of gold, $2 billion in cash, and 18 properties in Moscow, reports claim.

The Assad dynasty, which ruled Syria for over five decades, has seen its control unravel. Rebel forces breached the capital, Damascus, forcing Bashar to flee and effectively ending the family's grip on power. The Assads- an Alawite family - historically dominated a predominantly Sunni nation, with their rule beginning in 1970 under Bashar's father, Hafez al-Assad. Hafez came to power through a military coup, consolidating authority during a period of political instability in Syria.

Bashar al-Assad's rule relied heavily on a tightly-knit "inner circle," composed of family members who held key positions of influence and power.

Bashar's younger brother, Maher al-Assad, as commander of Syria's Republican Guard and the 4th Armoured Division, Maher oversaw military operations and maintained an alliance with Iran. He also directed the Shabiha militia, a group notorious for protecting regime interests through violent means. Maher has been sanctioned by the EU for his role in the suppression of protesters and is linked to the 2005 assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.

Bushra al-Assad, Bashar's only sister, served as her brother's secretary and married General Asef Shawkat, a key military figure, in 1995. Bushra reportedly clashed with Asma over the latter's public prominence, preferring to keep the "First Lady" title associated with her mother, Anisa.

Rami Makhlouf, a first cousin of Bashar, controlled a significant portion of Syria's economy. With interests in telecommunications, retail, and energy, he was Syria's wealthiest man. 
Asef Shawkat
 

Bashar Al-Assad's Wife Files For Divorce, Wants To Return To UK: Report 23 Dec 2024, 5:46 am

Asma al-Assad, wife of deposed Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, has filed for divorce and expressed her desire to return to the United Kingdom, reports The Jerusalem Post quoting Turkish and Arab media sources. The report said that Asma al-Assad is dissatisfied with her life in Moscow, where the Assads have resided in exile. Asma has allegedly applied to a Russian court seeking special permission to leave the country, with her application currently under review by Russian authorities.

Born in London in 1975 to Syrian parents, Asma al-Assad holds dual British-Syrian citizenship. She completed degrees in computer science and French literature at King's College London before pursuing a career in investment banking. Asma married Bashar al-Assad in December 2000. 

The couple has three children: Hafez, Zein, and Karim. Asma has reportedly sought to exile herself in London with her children since the Syrian uprising began.

Bashar al-Assad, now residing under asylum in Moscow, faces severe restrictions imposed by Russian authorities. Although his asylum request has been accepted, he is prohibited from leaving Moscow or engaging in political activities. Russian authorities have also frozen his assets, which include 270 kilograms of gold, $2 billion in cash, and 18 properties in Moscow, reports claim.

The Assad dynasty, which ruled Syria for over five decades, has seen its control unravel. Rebel forces breached the capital, Damascus, forcing Bashar to flee and effectively ending the family's grip on power. The Assads- an Alawite family - historically dominated a predominantly Sunni nation, with their rule beginning in 1970 under Bashar's father, Hafez al-Assad. Hafez came to power through a military coup, consolidating authority during a period of political instability in Syria.

Bashar al-Assad's rule relied heavily on a tightly-knit "inner circle," composed of family members who held key positions of influence and power.

Bashar's younger brother, Maher al-Assad, as commander of Syria's Republican Guard and the 4th Armoured Division, Maher oversaw military operations and maintained an alliance with Iran. He also directed the Shabiha militia, a group notorious for protecting regime interests through violent means. Maher has been sanctioned by the EU for his role in the suppression of protesters and is linked to the 2005 assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.

Bushra al-Assad, Bashar's only sister, served as her brother's secretary and married General Asef Shawkat, a key military figure, in 1995. Bushra reportedly clashed with Asma over the latter's public prominence, preferring to keep the "First Lady" title associated with her mother, Anisa.

Rami Makhlouf, a first cousin of Bashar, controlled a significant portion of Syria's economy. With interests in telecommunications, retail, and energy, he was Syria's wealthiest man. 
Asef Shawkat
 

Unnao Rape Case: Kuldeep Sengar's Interim Bail Extended By A Month 23 Dec 2024, 5:45 am

The Delhi High Court has extended the interim bail of Kuldeep Singh Sengar, convicted in the Unnao rape case, for one more month. Sengar had approached the court requesting a five-month extension of his bail on medical grounds.

The court had previously granted him interim bail on December 5, 2024, for a health evaluation by the All India Institute Of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

After reviewing the medical report from AIIMS, the court granted a one-month extension of his interim bail, while imposing several conditions.

Sengar is required to remain at his residence, details of which have been shared with the CBI, and may only leave for medical visits to AIIMS. He will also be under constant surveillance by a Delhi Police constable, with a limit of two visitors at a time, and will be contacted daily by a competent CBI officer.

Additionally, the bench of Justice Prathiba M Singh and Justice Amit Sharma also allowed Sengar to hire one attendant and directed him to surrender before the jail superintendent on January 20, 2025. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on January 27, 2025.

Considering the overall medical condition of the Appellant, this Court is of the opinion that the period for which the suspension is being sought along.

However in order to enable the Appellant to recover from his eye surgery, scrotal pain and the bleeding issues that he is facing while defecating, the extension of interim bail for a period of one month is directed, said the bench.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Meghalaya Board Class 10, 12 Exam 2025 datesheet revised. Details here 23 Dec 2024, 5:44 am

Komatireddy DEMANDS Allu Arjun To Pay Rs 20 Cr To Stampede Victim: 'Pushpa 2 Collected Rs 2000 Cr' 23 Dec 2024, 5:43 am

Car ratings are crucial, but always follow these 6 rules to be safe on road 23 Dec 2024, 5:42 am

Car ratings are crucial, but always follow these 6 rules to be safe on road 23 Dec 2024, 5:42 am

Parliament: A Political Battleground Where Public Interest Takes A Backseat 23 Dec 2024, 5:41 am

Art Evans passes away at 82 23 Dec 2024, 5:37 am

Murder-Accused Throws Slipper At Judge In Thane Court 23 Dec 2024, 5:36 am

A 22-year-old murder-accused threw a slipper at a judge during the hearing in a sessions court in Maharashtra's Thane district on Saturday.

The slipper did not hit the judge and instead hit a wooden frame in front of his desk and fell by the side of the bench clerk, police said.

The incident took place on Saturday afternoon at the court in Kalyan town and a First Information Report (FIR) was subsequently registered against the accused.

The accused, Kiran Santosh Bharam, was produced before District and Additional Sessions Judge R G Waghmare for a hearing in the murder case against him, an official from Mahatma Fule police station said.

At that time, the accused made a request to the judge to assign his case to another court. The judge asked the accused to make an application for the same through his lawyer, the official said.

The name of his lawyer was then called out, but he was not around and did not appear in the court. Hence, the accused was asked to give the name of another lawyer to represent him and was given a fresh date by the court, he said.

The accused then bent down, pulled out his slipper and threw it in the judge's direction, taking everyone present in the court by surprise, the official said.

An FIR was subsequently registered against the accused under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 132 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty) and 125 (act endangering life or personal safety of others), the police added.

Jasprit Bumrah best in the world, but I have my plans: Sam Konstas 23 Dec 2024, 5:35 am

"Working Longer Is...": Congress MP On Narayana Murthy's 70-Hour Workweek 23 Dec 2024, 5:35 am

Congress MP Karti P Chidambaram has taken a dig at Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy for saying that he was "disappointed" with India's shift from a six-day workweek to a five-day workweek in 1986.

Mr Murthy has repeatedly called for a 70-hour workweek, saying that India's development requires sacrifice, not relaxation.

Speaking at an event last month, Mr Murthy had drawn attention to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 100-hour workweeks.

"When PM Modi is working that hard, the only way to show our appreciation for what's happening around us is by working just as hard," he said.

The 78-year-old also shared personal insights into his work ethic, revealing that throughout much of his career, he maintained an intense schedule of 14-hour days, six and a half days a week. He would arrive at the office by 6:30 am and leave at around 8:40 pm. "I'm proud of it," he said.

ALSO READ | Ola CEO Calls For 70-Hour Workweek, Doctor Warns Of Premature Death Risk

Mr Chidambaram, however, differed with Mr Murthy, saying working longer was "meaningless" and the focus should be on "efficiency".

"Daily life is as it is a struggle, battling inefficient and substandard infrastructure and amenities. Work-life balance is most important for good social order and harmony," he wrote on X on Sunday.

He also said that India should in fact move to a 4-day working week.

"12 noon on Monday to 2 pm on Friday," the Congress MP said.

Working longer is meaningless, focus should be on efficiency. Daily life is as it is a struggle, battling inefficient & substandard infrastructure & amenities. Work life balance is most important for good social order & harmony. We should infact move to a 4 day working week. 12… https://t.co/EOOer6AgnK

— Karti P Chidambaram (@KartiPC) December 22, 2024

Mr Chidambaram's comments came days after his party colleague, Gaurav Gogoi, also disagreed with the tech tycoon's statement supporting long working hours.

Taking to his official handle on X on December 4, Mr Gogoi posted, "I also disagree with the view of Narayan Murthy on work-life balance. After all, what is life but looking after your children, cooking for them, teaching them, taking care of your elderly parents, being there for your friends in their times of need, and making sure that your house in order. The above is just as much a man's job as it is a woman's."

"Traditionally working women don't even have the choice to cut away life from work. It is a luxury that traditionally men have and one that they have to forego in the modern world," he added.

Narayana Murthy On Why He Wants 70-Hour Workweek

Narayana Murthy, earlier this month, defended his 70-hour workweek comment. He said young people have to realise that "we have to work hard and work towards making India number one."

"At Infosys, I said we will go to the best and compare ourselves with the best global companies. Once we compare ourselves with the best global companies, I can tell you we Indians have a lot to do. We have to set our aspirations high because 800 million Indians get free ration. That means 800 million Indians are in poverty. If we are not in a position to work hard, then who will work hard?" Mr Murthy said at an event while speaking to RPSG Group chairman Sanjiv Goenka.

"A gentleman here told me a Chinese worker is 3.5 times more productive than an Indian. It is very easy for us to write all kinds of nonsense and remain wretched, filthy, poor and shunned by the world. Therefore, I don't think we should say we are all comfortable and I will not go to the office. My request to all the people assembled here is to dedicate their lives to realising their value," the billionaire added.

"Working Longer Is...": Congress MP On Narayana Murthy's 70-Hour Workweek 23 Dec 2024, 5:35 am

Congress MP Karti P Chidambaram has taken a dig at Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy for saying that he was "disappointed" with India's shift from a six-day workweek to a five-day workweek in 1986.

Mr Murthy has repeatedly called for a 70-hour workweek, saying that India's development requires sacrifice, not relaxation.

Speaking at an event last month, Mr Murthy had drawn attention to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 100-hour workweeks.

"When PM Modi is working that hard, the only way to show our appreciation for what's happening around us is by working just as hard," he said.

The 78-year-old also shared personal insights into his work ethic, revealing that throughout much of his career, he maintained an intense schedule of 14-hour days, six and a half days a week. He would arrive at the office by 6:30 am and leave at around 8:40 pm. "I'm proud of it," he said.

ALSO READ | Ola CEO Calls For 70-Hour Workweek, Doctor Warns Of Premature Death Risk

Mr Chidambaram, however, differed with Mr Murthy, saying working longer was "meaningless" and the focus should be on "efficiency".

"Daily life is as it is a struggle, battling inefficient and substandard infrastructure and amenities. Work-life balance is most important for good social order and harmony," he wrote on X on Sunday.

He also said that India should in fact move to a 4-day working week.

"12 noon on Monday to 2 pm on Friday," the Congress MP said.

Working longer is meaningless, focus should be on efficiency. Daily life is as it is a struggle, battling inefficient & substandard infrastructure & amenities. Work life balance is most important for good social order & harmony. We should infact move to a 4 day working week. 12… https://t.co/EOOer6AgnK

— Karti P Chidambaram (@KartiPC) December 22, 2024

Mr Chidambaram's comments came days after his party colleague, Gaurav Gogoi, also disagreed with the tech tycoon's statement supporting long working hours.

Taking to his official handle on X on December 4, Mr Gogoi posted, "I also disagree with the view of Narayan Murthy on work-life balance. After all, what is life but looking after your children, cooking for them, teaching them, taking care of your elderly parents, being there for your friends in their times of need, and making sure that your house in order. The above is just as much a man's job as it is a woman's."

"Traditionally working women don't even have the choice to cut away life from work. It is a luxury that traditionally men have and one that they have to forego in the modern world," he added.

Narayana Murthy On Why He Wants 70-Hour Workweek

Narayana Murthy, earlier this month, defended his 70-hour workweek comment. He said young people have to realise that "we have to work hard and work towards making India number one."

"At Infosys, I said we will go to the best and compare ourselves with the best global companies. Once we compare ourselves with the best global companies, I can tell you we Indians have a lot to do. We have to set our aspirations high because 800 million Indians get free ration. That means 800 million Indians are in poverty. If we are not in a position to work hard, then who will work hard?" Mr Murthy said at an event while speaking to RPSG Group chairman Sanjiv Goenka.

"A gentleman here told me a Chinese worker is 3.5 times more productive than an Indian. It is very easy for us to write all kinds of nonsense and remain wretched, filthy, poor and shunned by the world. Therefore, I don't think we should say we are all comfortable and I will not go to the office. My request to all the people assembled here is to dedicate their lives to realising their value," the billionaire added.

"Working Longer Is...": Congress MP On Narayana Murthy's 70-Hour Workweek 23 Dec 2024, 5:35 am

Congress MP Karti P Chidambaram has taken a dig at Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy for saying that he was "disappointed" with India's shift from a six-day workweek to a five-day workweek in 1986.

Mr Murthy has repeatedly called for a 70-hour workweek, saying that India's development requires sacrifice, not relaxation.

Speaking at an event last month, Mr Murthy had drawn attention to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 100-hour workweeks.

"When PM Modi is working that hard, the only way to show our appreciation for what's happening around us is by working just as hard," he said.

The 78-year-old also shared personal insights into his work ethic, revealing that throughout much of his career, he maintained an intense schedule of 14-hour days, six and a half days a week. He would arrive at the office by 6:30 am and leave at around 8:40 pm. "I'm proud of it," he said.

ALSO READ | Ola CEO Calls For 70-Hour Workweek, Doctor Warns Of Premature Death Risk

Mr Chidambaram, however, differed with Mr Murthy, saying working longer was "meaningless" and the focus should be on "efficiency".

"Daily life is as it is a struggle, battling inefficient and substandard infrastructure and amenities. Work-life balance is most important for good social order and harmony," he wrote on X on Sunday.

He also said that India should in fact move to a 4-day working week.

"12 noon on Monday to 2 pm on Friday," the Congress MP said.

Working longer is meaningless, focus should be on efficiency. Daily life is as it is a struggle, battling inefficient & substandard infrastructure & amenities. Work life balance is most important for good social order & harmony. We should infact move to a 4 day working week. 12… https://t.co/EOOer6AgnK

— Karti P Chidambaram (@KartiPC) December 22, 2024

Mr Chidambaram's comments came days after his party colleague, Gaurav Gogoi, also disagreed with the tech tycoon's statement supporting long working hours.

Taking to his official handle on X on December 4, Mr Gogoi posted, "I also disagree with the view of Narayan Murthy on work-life balance. After all, what is life but looking after your children, cooking for them, teaching them, taking care of your elderly parents, being there for your friends in their times of need, and making sure that your house in order. The above is just as much a man's job as it is a woman's."

"Traditionally working women don't even have the choice to cut away life from work. It is a luxury that traditionally men have and one that they have to forego in the modern world," he added.

Narayana Murthy On Why He Wants 70-Hour Workweek

Narayana Murthy, earlier this month, defended his 70-hour workweek comment. He said young people have to realise that "we have to work hard and work towards making India number one."

"At Infosys, I said we will go to the best and compare ourselves with the best global companies. Once we compare ourselves with the best global companies, I can tell you we Indians have a lot to do. We have to set our aspirations high because 800 million Indians get free ration. That means 800 million Indians are in poverty. If we are not in a position to work hard, then who will work hard?" Mr Murthy said at an event while speaking to RPSG Group chairman Sanjiv Goenka.

"A gentleman here told me a Chinese worker is 3.5 times more productive than an Indian. It is very easy for us to write all kinds of nonsense and remain wretched, filthy, poor and shunned by the world. Therefore, I don't think we should say we are all comfortable and I will not go to the office. My request to all the people assembled here is to dedicate their lives to realising their value," the billionaire added.

Forced Nudity, Sleep Deprivation: How CIA Tortured Prisoners At Black Sites 23 Dec 2024, 5:34 am

A former Guantanamo detainee's self-portraits depicting the alleged torture he faced at the hands of the CIA have surfaced from sealed court records. Mohammed Farik Bin Amin's drawings, presented during his sentencing trial earlier this year, provide a visual account of interrogation techniques used on detainees following the 9/11 attacks.

Bin Amin, a Malaysian national, was held in CIA-run black sites and later at Guantanamo Bay after he was detained in 2003. His sketches, presented before a military jury in January 2024, show scenes of abuse he claims to have endured during his detention. These include forced nudity, stress positions, sleep deprivation and other unauthorised interrogation methods.

Bin Amin's lawyer, Christine Funk, who negotiated his plea deal, revealed the drawings in court as part of his defence. Funk described the illustrations as a form of therapy and evidence. “This is what his nightmares are all about. This is what he lives with.” Funk said, as per the NY Times.

The self-portraits were declassified after years of effort by Bin Amin's legal team. The government raised no objections when the illustrations were displayed on a large screen in court. This was the first time such visuals were included in the official record of a trial at the post-9/11 war crimes tribunal.

One of the drawings depicts standing sleep deprivation, with Bin Amin shackled and forced to shift his weight to cope with the pain. Another shows him squatting with a broomstick behind his knees while shackled — a technique reportedly used by a CIA interrogator who was later dismissed. Mock waterboarding is portrayed, with guards restraining him as water is poured over his face and body, causing a fear of drowning. Hooded solitary confinement is also shown through an image of him naked, shackled and subjected to white noise in a cold and isolated cell. Then there is also a scene of a dark dungeon that captures him chained to a wall, resulting in physical injuries and discomfort.

During his sentencing trial in January, Bin Amin confessed to war crimes, expressing regret for his involvement with the Southeast Asian extremist organisation, Jemaah Islamiyah, responsible for the 2002 Bali bombings that claimed 202 lives. He acknowledged his role as an accomplice after the attack, assisting the primary perpetrator in evading arrest.

Forced Nudity, Sleep Deprivation: How CIA Tortured Prisoners At Black Sites 23 Dec 2024, 5:34 am

A former Guantanamo detainee's self-portraits depicting the alleged torture he faced at the hands of the CIA have surfaced from sealed court records. Mohammed Farik Bin Amin's drawings, presented during his sentencing trial earlier this year, provide a visual account of interrogation techniques used on detainees following the 9/11 attacks.

Bin Amin, a Malaysian national, was held in CIA-run black sites and later at Guantanamo Bay after he was detained in 2003. His sketches, presented before a military jury in January 2024, show scenes of abuse he claims to have endured during his detention. These include forced nudity, stress positions, sleep deprivation and other unauthorised interrogation methods.

Bin Amin's lawyer, Christine Funk, who negotiated his plea deal, revealed the drawings in court as part of his defence. Funk described the illustrations as a form of therapy and evidence. “This is what his nightmares are all about. This is what he lives with.” Funk said, as per the NY Times.

The self-portraits were declassified after years of effort by Bin Amin's legal team. The government raised no objections when the illustrations were displayed on a large screen in court. This was the first time such visuals were included in the official record of a trial at the post-9/11 war crimes tribunal.

One of the drawings depicts standing sleep deprivation, with Bin Amin shackled and forced to shift his weight to cope with the pain. Another shows him squatting with a broomstick behind his knees while shackled — a technique reportedly used by a CIA interrogator who was later dismissed. Mock waterboarding is portrayed, with guards restraining him as water is poured over his face and body, causing a fear of drowning. Hooded solitary confinement is also shown through an image of him naked, shackled and subjected to white noise in a cold and isolated cell. Then there is also a scene of a dark dungeon that captures him chained to a wall, resulting in physical injuries and discomfort.

During his sentencing trial in January, Bin Amin confessed to war crimes, expressing regret for his involvement with the Southeast Asian extremist organisation, Jemaah Islamiyah, responsible for the 2002 Bali bombings that claimed 202 lives. He acknowledged his role as an accomplice after the attack, assisting the primary perpetrator in evading arrest.

Forced Nudity, Sleep Deprivation: How CIA Tortured Prisoners At Black Sites 23 Dec 2024, 5:34 am

A former Guantanamo detainee's self-portraits depicting the alleged torture he faced at the hands of the CIA have surfaced from sealed court records. Mohammed Farik Bin Amin's drawings, presented during his sentencing trial earlier this year, provide a visual account of interrogation techniques used on detainees following the 9/11 attacks.

Bin Amin, a Malaysian national, was held in CIA-run black sites and later at Guantanamo Bay after he was detained in 2003. His sketches, presented before a military jury in January 2024, show scenes of abuse he claims to have endured during his detention. These include forced nudity, stress positions, sleep deprivation and other unauthorised interrogation methods.

Bin Amin's lawyer, Christine Funk, who negotiated his plea deal, revealed the drawings in court as part of his defence. Funk described the illustrations as a form of therapy and evidence. “This is what his nightmares are all about. This is what he lives with.” Funk said, as per the NY Times.

The self-portraits were declassified after years of effort by Bin Amin's legal team. The government raised no objections when the illustrations were displayed on a large screen in court. This was the first time such visuals were included in the official record of a trial at the post-9/11 war crimes tribunal.

One of the drawings depicts standing sleep deprivation, with Bin Amin shackled and forced to shift his weight to cope with the pain. Another shows him squatting with a broomstick behind his knees while shackled — a technique reportedly used by a CIA interrogator who was later dismissed. Mock waterboarding is portrayed, with guards restraining him as water is poured over his face and body, causing a fear of drowning. Hooded solitary confinement is also shown through an image of him naked, shackled and subjected to white noise in a cold and isolated cell. Then there is also a scene of a dark dungeon that captures him chained to a wall, resulting in physical injuries and discomfort.

During his sentencing trial in January, Bin Amin confessed to war crimes, expressing regret for his involvement with the Southeast Asian extremist organisation, Jemaah Islamiyah, responsible for the 2002 Bali bombings that claimed 202 lives. He acknowledged his role as an accomplice after the attack, assisting the primary perpetrator in evading arrest.

Forced Nudity, Sleep Deprivation: How CIA Tortured Prisoners At Black Sites 23 Dec 2024, 5:34 am

A former Guantanamo detainee's self-portraits depicting the alleged torture he faced at the hands of the CIA have surfaced from sealed court records. Mohammed Farik Bin Amin's drawings, presented during his sentencing trial earlier this year, provide a visual account of interrogation techniques used on detainees following the 9/11 attacks.

Bin Amin, a Malaysian national, was held in CIA-run black sites and later at Guantanamo Bay after he was detained in 2003. His sketches, presented before a military jury in January 2024, show scenes of abuse he claims to have endured during his detention. These include forced nudity, stress positions, sleep deprivation and other unauthorised interrogation methods.

Bin Amin's lawyer, Christine Funk, who negotiated his plea deal, revealed the drawings in court as part of his defence. Funk described the illustrations as a form of therapy and evidence. “This is what his nightmares are all about. This is what he lives with.” Funk said, as per the NY Times.

The self-portraits were declassified after years of effort by Bin Amin's legal team. The government raised no objections when the illustrations were displayed on a large screen in court. This was the first time such visuals were included in the official record of a trial at the post-9/11 war crimes tribunal.

One of the drawings depicts standing sleep deprivation, with Bin Amin shackled and forced to shift his weight to cope with the pain. Another shows him squatting with a broomstick behind his knees while shackled — a technique reportedly used by a CIA interrogator who was later dismissed. Mock waterboarding is portrayed, with guards restraining him as water is poured over his face and body, causing a fear of drowning. Hooded solitary confinement is also shown through an image of him naked, shackled and subjected to white noise in a cold and isolated cell. Then there is also a scene of a dark dungeon that captures him chained to a wall, resulting in physical injuries and discomfort.

During his sentencing trial in January, Bin Amin confessed to war crimes, expressing regret for his involvement with the Southeast Asian extremist organisation, Jemaah Islamiyah, responsible for the 2002 Bali bombings that claimed 202 lives. He acknowledged his role as an accomplice after the attack, assisting the primary perpetrator in evading arrest.

Radhika Merchant's innovative mangalsutra styling 23 Dec 2024, 5:33 am

South Western Railway Arranges Special Trains From Bengaluru For Christmas and Kumbh Mela 23 Dec 2024, 5:33 am

To clear the extra rush of passengers during the Christmas festival, South Western Railway has organised special trains to multiple locations from Bengaluru. SWR will also run a special one-way express train (06215) from Mysuru to Prayagraj to the Kumbh Mela. Train No 06507 SMVT Bengaluru-Thiruvananthapuram North Express Special will depart from Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru at 11 pm on December 23 and reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 4.30 pm the next day, according to a press release by SWR. In the return direction, Train No 06508 Thiruvananthapuram North-SMVT Bengaluru Express Special will depart from Thiruvananthapuram North at 5.55 pm on December 24 and arrive at Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru at 11.15 am the next day.

Enroute, the train will have stoppages at Krishnarajapuram, Bangarapet, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam, Chingavanam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayankulam and Kollam stations in both directions. Special Express trains in each direction between Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru and Kalaburagi stations will depart from Bengaluru at 9.15 pm on December 24 and reach Kalaburagi at 7.40 am the next day.

In the return direction, Train No 06590 Kalaburagi-SMVT Bengaluru Express Special will depart from Kalaburagi at 9:35am on December 23 and 25 and reach Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal Bengaluru at 8 pm on the same day. Enroute, The train will halt at the following stations in both directions: Yelahanka, Dharmavaram, Anantapur, Guntakal, Adoni, Mantralayam Road, Raichur, Krishna, Yadgir and Shahabad. Train No 06215 Mysuru-Prayagraj One-way Kumbh Express Special will leave Mysuru at 3 am on December 23 and is scheduled to reach Prayagraj jn at 3 am on the respective Wednesday.

Enroute, the train will stop at the following stations: Mandya, KSR Bengaluru, Yesvantpur, Tumakuru, Arsikere, Kadur, Chikjajur, Davangere, SMM Haveri, SSS Hubballi, Dharwad, Belagavi, Ghatprabha, Miraj, Sangli, Karad, Pune, Daund Chord Line, Ahmadnagar, Manmad, Bhusaval, Khandwa, Talvadya, Chhanera, Khirkiya, Harda, Banapura, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna and Manikpur.

The special trains will consist of one AC Two-Tier Coach, two AC Three-Tier Coaches, nine Sleeper Class Coaches, four General Second-Class Coaches and two SLR/D.

How to increase the absorption of vitamin B12 in the body 23 Dec 2024, 5:30 am

OpenAI's next flagship model is running late, researchers blame low quality data 23 Dec 2024, 5:28 am

Kerala Removes Biomedical Waste Illegally Dumped In Tamil Nadu 23 Dec 2024, 5:26 am

Four people were arrested for facilitating the illegal dumping of biomedical waste in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district, even as the Kerala government initiated its removal.

The removal of 16 truckloads of biomedical waste, including blood samples and hazardous materials, follows a directive from the National Green Tribunal. The environmental body had taken up the issue on its own and ordered the removal of the waste within three days.

The incident, involving the illicit dumping of waste from Kerala hospitals in five villages in the Tirunelveli district, had raised serious environmental and public health concerns. The illegal disposal of biomedical waste poses significant risks, including the potential spread of infectious diseases and contamination of soil and water sources.

Opposition in Tamil Nadu was critical of the ruling DMK and alleged it had done little to crack down on the illegal dumping. The state government, however, accused the earlier AIADMK dispensation of letting the dumping go unchecked and claimed it had cracked down through monitoring.

With the hazardous wastes suspected to have come from the Thiruvananthapuram Regional Cancer Centre and Credence Hospital, environmentalists raised questions whether these hospitals had the mandatory system for safe disposal of medical wastes.

The clearance, which began on Sunday, will continue today as well with officials from both states monitoring the progress.

Registration for Mahila Samman and Sanjeevani Yojana begins in Delhi 23 Dec 2024, 5:26 am

Kerala Removes Biomedical Waste Illegally Dumped In Tamil Nadu 23 Dec 2024, 5:24 am

Four people were arrested for facilitating the illegal dumping of biomedical waste in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district, even as the Kerala government initiated its removal.

The removal of 16 truckloads of biomedical waste, including blood samples and hazardous materials, follows a directive from the National Green Tribunal. The environmental body had taken up the issue on its own and ordered the removal of the waste within three days.

The incident, involving the illicit dumping of waste from Kerala hospitals in five villages in the Tirunelveli district, had raised serious environmental and public health concerns. The illegal disposal of biomedical waste poses significant risks, including the potential spread of infectious diseases and contamination of soil and water sources.

Opposition in Tamil Nadu was critical of the ruling DMK and alleged it had done little to crack down on the illegal dumping. The state government, however, accused the earlier AIADMK dispensation of letting the dumping go unchecked and claimed it had cracked down through monitoring.

With the hazardous wastes suspected to have come from the Thiruvananthapuram Regional Cancer Centre and Credence Hospital, environmentalists raised questions whether these hospitals had the mandatory system for safe disposal of medical wastes.

The clearance, which began on Sunday, will continue today as well with officials from both states monitoring the progress.

6 ways to prevent psoriasis flare-ups in winter 23 Dec 2024, 5:24 am

Tired pitches for India, fresher ones for Australia: MCG practice row explained 23 Dec 2024, 5:22 am

Tired pitches for India, fresher ones for Australia: MCG practice row explained 23 Dec 2024, 5:22 am

"Working Longer Is...": Congress MP On Narayana Murthy's 70-Hour Workweek 23 Dec 2024, 5:22 am

Congress MP Karti P Chidambaram has taken a dig at Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy for saying that he was "disappointed" with India's shift from a six-day workweek to a five-day workweek in 1986.

Mr Murthy has repeatedly called for a 70-hour workweek, saying that India's development requires sacrifice, not relaxation.

Speaking at an event last month, Mr Murthy had drawn attention to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 100-hour workweeks.

"When PM Modi is working that hard, the only way to show our appreciation for what's happening around us is by working just as hard," he said.

The 78-year-old also shared personal insights into his work ethic, revealing that throughout much of his career, he maintained an intense schedule of 14-hour days, six and a half days a week. He would arrive at the office by 6:30 am and leave at around 8:40 pm. "I'm proud of it," he said.

ALSO READ | Ola CEO Calls For 70-Hour Workweek, Doctor Warns Of Premature Death Risk

Mr Chidambaram, however, differed with Mr Murthy, saying working longer was "meaningless" and the focus should be on "efficiency".

"Daily life is as it is a struggle, battling inefficient and substandard infrastructure and amenities. Work-life balance is most important for good social order and harmony," he wrote on X on Sunday.

He also said that India should in fact move to a 4-day working week.

"12 noon on Monday to 2 pm on Friday," the Congress MP said.

Working longer is meaningless, focus should be on efficiency. Daily life is as it is a struggle, battling inefficient & substandard infrastructure & amenities. Work life balance is most important for good social order & harmony. We should infact move to a 4 day working week. 12… https://t.co/EOOer6AgnK

— Karti P Chidambaram (@KartiPC) December 22, 2024

Mr Chidambaram's comments came days after his party colleague, Gaurav Gogoi, also disagreed with the tech tycoon's statement supporting long working hours.

Taking to his official handle on X on December 4, Mr Gogoi posted, "I also disagree with the view of Narayan Murthy on work-life balance. After all, what is life but looking after your children, cooking for them, teaching them, taking care of your elderly parents, being there for your friends in their times of need, and making sure that your house in order. The above is just as much a man's job as it is a woman's."

"Traditionally working women don't even have the choice to cut away life from work. It is a luxury that traditionally men have and one that they have to forego in the modern world," he added.

Narayana Murthy On Why He Wants 70-Hour Workweek

Narayana Murthy, earlier this month, defended his 70-hour workweek comment. He said young people have to realise that "we have to work hard and work towards making India number one."

"At Infosys, I said we will go to the best and compare ourselves with the best global companies. Once we compare ourselves with the best global companies, I can tell you we Indians have a lot to do. We have to set our aspirations high because 800 million Indians get free ration. That means 800 million Indians are in poverty. If we are not in a position to work hard, then who will work hard?" Mr Murthy said at an event while speaking to RPSG Group chairman Sanjiv Goenka.

"A gentleman here told me a Chinese worker is 3.5 times more productive than an Indian. It is very easy for us to write all kinds of nonsense and remain wretched, filthy, poor and shunned by the world. Therefore, I don't think we should say we are all comfortable and I will not go to the office. My request to all the people assembled here is to dedicate their lives to realising their value," the billionaire added.

2 babies among 3 killed as dumper truck crushes footpath dwellers in Pune 23 Dec 2024, 5:22 am

Man registers Sunny Leone's name for Chhattisgarh scheme, gets Rs 1,000 monthly 23 Dec 2024, 5:21 am

Indians Reflect On Work Culture As UK Firm Announces Holidays Till January 6 23 Dec 2024, 5:20 am

An Indian employee working for a UK-based organisation has reignited conversation about holiday policies and work culture at domestic and international companies. Vivek Panchal, employed by a British company, posted on X (formerly Twitter) a screenshot of a message from his colleague, informing him of a company-wide holiday of 15 days to celebrate Christmas and New Year.

“Hello Vivek, from Monday it's holidays till Jan 6th, for Christmas and New Year,” the message read.

Sharing the update, Panchal captioned the post, “Benefits of working in a UK-based company.”

Benefits of working in a UK based company ???? pic.twitter.com/onfxM4dPB7

— Vivek Panchal (@Vivekpanchaal) December 20, 2024

Mr Panchal's post drew a massive response, with many lamenting the disparity between holiday policies in India and the West. Users expressed dissatisfaction with the relentless work schedules typical of Indian companies.

One user wrote, “Not only UK all the western countries follow this. Only India and some Asian countries follow the client first attitude and work 24x7 and 365 days work strategy.”

Not only UK all the western countries follow this. Only India and some Asian countries follow the client first attitude and work 24x7 and 365 days work strategy

— Rajesh Iyer (@thatswhyraj) December 21, 2024

Another user tied the issue to the larger debate on work-life balance. “Narayana Murthy in a parallel universe,” commented one user, referencing the Infosys founder's controversial endorsement of a 70-hour work week.

Narayana Murthy in a parallel universe

— Sushovit (@sushovitrazdan) December 21, 2024

A couple of users highlighted the limited leave or lack of leave in India even during major Indian festivals. One user wrote, “In India we need such long holidays...2 days are not sufficient for Diwali.” Another added, “Come to India, they will ask you to work even on Diwali, Holi, Christmas, Eid .....the list is long.”

In India we need such long holidays...2 days are not sufficient for diwali

— Supreme Investors (@SupremeI45867) December 21, 2024

Come to India, they will ask you to work even on Diwali, Holi, Christmas, Eid .....the list is long.

— saurabh sharma (@saurabh1531) December 21, 2024

The debate continued, with Panchal's post reflecting the sentiments of many Indian employees who are questioning the country's work culture and its approach to holiday policies.

Mr Panchal's post comes on the heels of an ongoing debate about work culture in India.

Recent labour data also painted a grim picture, with an average Indian working almost 47 hours a week. The country has one of the most overworked labour forces in the world, even surpassing China and Singapore, data show.

Indians Reflect On Work Culture As UK Firm Announces Holidays Till January 6 23 Dec 2024, 5:20 am

An Indian employee working for a UK-based organisation has reignited conversation about holiday policies and work culture at domestic and international companies. Vivek Panchal, employed by a British company, posted on X (formerly Twitter) a screenshot of a message from his colleague, informing him of a company-wide holiday of 15 days to celebrate Christmas and New Year.

“Hello Vivek, from Monday it's holidays till Jan 6th, for Christmas and New Year,” the message read.

Sharing the update, Panchal captioned the post, “Benefits of working in a UK-based company.”

Benefits of working in a UK based company ???? pic.twitter.com/onfxM4dPB7

— Vivek Panchal (@Vivekpanchaal) December 20, 2024

Mr Panchal's post drew a massive response, with many lamenting the disparity between holiday policies in India and the West. Users expressed dissatisfaction with the relentless work schedules typical of Indian companies.

One user wrote, “Not only UK all the western countries follow this. Only India and some Asian countries follow the client first attitude and work 24x7 and 365 days work strategy.”

Not only UK all the western countries follow this. Only India and some Asian countries follow the client first attitude and work 24x7 and 365 days work strategy

— Rajesh Iyer (@thatswhyraj) December 21, 2024

Another user tied the issue to the larger debate on work-life balance. “Narayana Murthy in a parallel universe,” commented one user, referencing the Infosys founder's controversial endorsement of a 70-hour work week.

Narayana Murthy in a parallel universe

— Sushovit (@sushovitrazdan) December 21, 2024

A couple of users highlighted the limited leave or lack of leave in India even during major Indian festivals. One user wrote, “In India we need such long holidays...2 days are not sufficient for Diwali.” Another added, “Come to India, they will ask you to work even on Diwali, Holi, Christmas, Eid .....the list is long.”

In India we need such long holidays...2 days are not sufficient for diwali

— Supreme Investors (@SupremeI45867) December 21, 2024

Come to India, they will ask you to work even on Diwali, Holi, Christmas, Eid .....the list is long.

— saurabh sharma (@saurabh1531) December 21, 2024

The debate continued, with Panchal's post reflecting the sentiments of many Indian employees who are questioning the country's work culture and its approach to holiday policies.

Mr Panchal's post comes on the heels of an ongoing debate about work culture in India.

Recent labour data also painted a grim picture, with an average Indian working almost 47 hours a week. The country has one of the most overworked labour forces in the world, even surpassing China and Singapore, data show.

Video of Illuminati Dance Crew's performance at IIT Bombay's tech fest goes viral 23 Dec 2024, 5:16 am

Video of Illuminati Dance Crew's performance at IIT Bombay's tech fest goes viral 23 Dec 2024, 5:16 am

Moushumi Chatterjee Calls Rajesh Khanna An 'Egoistic' Star: 'How Can He Stay Away From...' 23 Dec 2024, 5:12 am

Watch: Viral Video Shows How Gajar Ka Halwa Is Made In Bulk 23 Dec 2024, 5:12 am

Few desserts in Indian cuisine can match the nostalgic charm and allure of Gajar Ka Halwa. This classic winter delicacy, with its blend of grated carrots, milk, ghee, and just the right amount of sweetness, is the ultimate comfort food. One bite instantly transports you to simpler times, evoking memories of cosy winter evenings and family celebrations. Recently, we came across a video on Instagram that offers a sneak peek behind the scenes of preparing a large batch of this dessert at a mithai shop. The video showcases the preparation of Gajar Ka Halwa from the famed Delhi-NCR outlet of Singla's Sweets Bakery & Restaurant. After watching the video, you'll surely want to indulge right away.

The Gajar ka halwa clip opens with a man washing finely chopped carrots in a large container. After thoroughly rinsing them, he drains the water and transfers the carrots to another vessel. Two other men then carry this second container, filled with carrots, and pour its contents into a churning machine. Gradually, they add milk, sugar, a blend of spices, and ghee to the machine, allowing the mixture to cook for a while. Once the halwa is perfectly cooked, it is poured into a large, slightly flat utensil. From there, it is portioned into small paper cups, ideal for serving at food counters. To enhance the flavour, the confectioners generously garnish each serving with mawa, crushed cashews, and assorted dried fruits."

Take a look:

Also Read: Viral Video Shows Making Of Unique Dahi Kachori In Jaipur, Internet Reacts

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This isn't the first time a halwa-making video has gone viral. Previously, the sweet delight received a spicy twist. In a now-viral clip from a shop in Calicut, Kerala, the chef was seen preparing halwa with an unexpected ingredient: green chillies. The video showed the chef meticulously chopping green chillies into small pieces before heating them in a large vessel. However, he balanced the fiery heat by mixing in sugar and milk, creating a unique blend of flavours. The ingredients were then cooked together to produce a vibrant green halwa mould. Read more about it here.

Also Read: After Watching The Making Of Malai Chaap, Internet Says "Waah"

After watching the video, if you find yourself craving some Gajar Ka Halwa, we've got you covered. Click here to discover a list of outlets in Delhi serving the dessert.

What do you think about the halwa-making video? Let us know in the comments section below!

Bashar Al-Assad's Wife Files For Divorce, Wants To Return To UK: Report 23 Dec 2024, 5:11 am

Asma al-Assad, wife of deposed Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, has filed for divorce and expressed her desire to return to the United Kingdom, reports The Jerusalem Post quoting Turkish and Arab media sources. The report said that Asma al-Assad is dissatisfied with her life in Moscow, where the Assads have resided in exile. Asma has allegedly applied to a Russian court seeking special permission to leave the country, with her application currently under review by Russian authorities.

Born in London in 1975 to Syrian parents, Asma al-Assad holds dual British-Syrian citizenship. She completed degrees in computer science and French literature at King's College London before pursuing a career in investment banking. Asma married Bashar al-Assad in December 2000. 

The couple has three children: Hafez, Zein, and Karim. Asma has reportedly sought to exile herself in London with her children since the Syrian uprising began.

Bashar al-Assad, now residing under asylum in Moscow, faces severe restrictions imposed by Russian authorities. Although his asylum request has been accepted, he is prohibited from leaving Moscow or engaging in political activities. Russian authorities have also frozen his assets, which include 270 kilograms of gold, $2 billion in cash, and 18 properties in Moscow, reports claim.

The Assad dynasty, which ruled Syria for over five decades, has seen its control unravel. Rebel forces breached the capital, Damascus, forcing Bashar to flee and effectively ending the family's grip on power. The Assads- an Alawite family - historically dominated a predominantly Sunni nation, with their rule beginning in 1970 under Bashar's father, Hafez al-Assad. Hafez came to power through a military coup, consolidating authority during a period of political instability in Syria.

Bashar al-Assad's rule relied heavily on a tightly-knit "inner circle," composed of family members who held key positions of influence and power.

Bashar's younger brother, Maher al-Assad, as commander of Syria's Republican Guard and the 4th Armoured Division, Maher oversaw military operations and maintained an alliance with Iran. He also directed the Shabiha militia, a group notorious for protecting regime interests through violent means. Maher has been sanctioned by the EU for his role in the suppression of protesters and is linked to the 2005 assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.

Bushra al-Assad, Bashar's only sister, served as her brother's secretary and married General Asef Shawkat, a key military figure, in 1995. Bushra reportedly clashed with Asma over the latter's public prominence, preferring to keep the "First Lady" title associated with her mother, Anisa.

Rami Makhlouf, a first cousin of Bashar, controlled a significant portion of Syria's economy. With interests in telecommunications, retail, and energy, he was Syria's wealthiest man. 
Asef Shawkat
 

Did NATO betray Ukraine: The unfulfilled promise of NATO membership 23 Dec 2024, 5:05 am

Did NATO betray Ukraine: The unfulfilled promise of NATO membership 23 Dec 2024, 5:05 am

Trump picks Sriram Krishnan to shape AI policy for his administration 23 Dec 2024, 5:02 am

Trump picks Sriram Krishnan to shape AI policy for his administration 23 Dec 2024, 5:02 am

Mandira Bedi Recalls When Saroj Khan Compared Her Dance Moves In DDLJ To 'Sunny Deol' 23 Dec 2024, 4:58 am

Narayana Murthy Says Climate Change May Trigger Mass Migration To Bengaluru, Pune 23 Dec 2024, 4:57 am

Highlighting the urgency of climate action, Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy warned that climate change poses a significant risk of mass migration to urban centres like Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad, as rising temperatures and extreme weather events force people to abandon their homes in less resilient areas.

Speaking at an event in Pune on Friday, Mr Murthy issued a stark warning about the effects of rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns. He cautioned that within the next 20-25 years, certain rural areas in India may become uninhabitable, potentially forcing millions to migrate to urban centres that are already struggling with modern-day challenges.

"What is likely to happen is that there will be a mass migration from rural parts of states... into habitable places like Bangalore, maybe Pune, maybe Hyderabad," Murthy remarked during an award ceremony in Pune.

He further pointed out that Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad are grappling with their own issues, such as pollution and traffic congestion, making them increasingly difficult to live in. "These cities have become extremely challenging to live in, difficult to navigate, and have witnessed rising pollution levels. They are heading toward becoming unlivable," Murthy warned.

Mr Murthy stressed the urgency of collaboration among the corporate sector, political leaders, and bureaucrats to address climate change and mitigate rural-to-urban migration. He highlighted the critical need for such cooperation to prevent India's urban hubs from becoming overwhelmed by an influx of migrants, which would further strain their already burdened infrastructure.

"We in India, particularly the corporate sector, have to cooperate with politicians and bureaucrats and ensure that there is no mass migration," Murthy was quoted as saying by The Economic Times.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Mr Murthy expressed optimism about India's ability to tackle these challenges. While acknowledging that India often acts reactively, he conveyed confidence that by 2030, the country would achieve significant progress in meeting climate targets and addressing the migration crisis.

"I am optimistic that we will make progress by 2030," Murthy added, reassuring the audience that with timely intervention and collective efforts, India could overcome these pressing issues.

India's rapid urbanisation and population growth have already stretched cities to their limits. The anticipated influx of migrants driven by climate change could exacerbate existing challenges, intensifying shortages of infrastructure and resources.

Narayana Murthy Says Climate Change May Trigger Mass Migration To Bengaluru 23 Dec 2024, 4:55 am

Highlighting the urgency of climate action, Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy warned that climate change poses a significant risk of mass migration to urban centres like Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad, as rising temperatures and extreme weather events force people to abandon their homes in less resilient areas.

Speaking at an event in Pune on Friday, Mr Murthy issued a stark warning about the effects of rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns. He cautioned that within the next 20-25 years, certain rural areas in India may become uninhabitable, potentially forcing millions to migrate to urban centres that are already struggling with modern-day challenges.

"What is likely to happen is that there will be a mass migration from rural parts of states... into habitable places like Bangalore, maybe Pune, maybe Hyderabad," Murthy remarked during an award ceremony in Pune.

He further pointed out that Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad are grappling with their own issues, such as pollution and traffic congestion, making them increasingly difficult to live in. "These cities have become extremely challenging to live in, difficult to navigate, and have witnessed rising pollution levels. They are heading toward becoming unlivable," Murthy warned.

Mr Murthy stressed the urgency of collaboration among the corporate sector, political leaders, and bureaucrats to address climate change and mitigate rural-to-urban migration. He highlighted the critical need for such cooperation to prevent India's urban hubs from becoming overwhelmed by an influx of migrants, which would further strain their already burdened infrastructure.

"We in India, particularly the corporate sector, have to cooperate with politicians and bureaucrats and ensure that there is no mass migration," Murthy was quoted as saying by The Economic Times.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Mr Murthy expressed optimism about India's ability to tackle these challenges. While acknowledging that India often acts reactively, he conveyed confidence that by 2030, the country would achieve significant progress in meeting climate targets and addressing the migration crisis.

"I am optimistic that we will make progress by 2030," Murthy added, reassuring the audience that with timely intervention and collective efforts, India could overcome these pressing issues.

India's rapid urbanisation and population growth have already stretched cities to their limits. The anticipated influx of migrants driven by climate change could exacerbate existing challenges, intensifying shortages of infrastructure and resources.

Baby John advance booking: Film collects Rs 50 lakh 23 Dec 2024, 4:55 am

The Year That Was: Revelations Made Possible By Artificial Intelligence 23 Dec 2024, 4:55 am

Artificial intelligence (AI), a set of technologies aimed at mimicking human cognitive functions, has in recent times helped with several unexpected revelations that seemed impossible otherwise. As we inch closer to 2025, here's a look at four instances when AI helped uncover new facts previously unknown:

Herculaneum Scrolls

With AI and high-resolution X-rays, three researchers decoded over 2,000 characters from the rolled Herculaneum scroll, bringing to the fore the first full passages from papyri, which survived the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

These hundreds of brittle ancient scrolls, all charred, could have crumbled if somebody had attempted to unfurl the truth, thereby making any trace of script illegible. Although these remain unopened, their content now lies within reach, thanks to AI.

The artefacts were recovered from a building thought to be the house of Julius Caesar's father-in-law. They revealed an unprecedented cache of information related to ancient Rome and Greece, CNN reported.

The computer scientists, who earlier started the Vesuvius Challenge, designed to accelerate the discoveries made on the scrolls, hoped they would be able to unlock 90 per cent of the four scrolls discovered by the end of this year.

Whale Calls

This year, scientists decoded various unknown complexities in whale communication by analysing thousands of recorded sequences of sperm whale clicks with the help of artificial intelligence.

Although they knew how the enigmatic clicks made by sperm whales varied in tempo, rhythm and length, they couldn't understand what they were trying to communicate through these sounds. With the advent of AI, the scientists analysed 9,000 recorded click sequences, called codas, representing the voice of around 60 sperm whales in the Caribbean Sea.

This may help humans communicate better with marine animals in future.

Ancient Symbols

With AI's assistance, archaeologists working in Peru were able to discover 303 unknown giant symbols carved in the Nazca Desert.

Situated 500 metres above sea level and around 50 kilometres inland from Peru's south coast, these symbols were discovered in the desert beginning in the early 20th century. These were able to survive as the dry desert region is sparsely populated, not affected by flooding and is highly unsuitable for growing crops.

Among the carvings are birds, human-like figures with headdresses, plants, spiders, decapitated heads and an orca wielding a knife.

Building Blocks Of Life

AI models have helped researchers better understand strings of molecules that form proteins, called the building blocks of life.

Built from around 20 amino acids, proteins can be combined in almost endless ways. They fold themselves into complex patterns in three-dimensional space and help form hair, skin and tissue cells.

The latest iteration of the AlphaFold Protein Structure Database, has helped predict the structure of almost all 200 million known proteins through the amino acid sequences. This tool has been utilised by at least two million researchers globally.

Elon Musk's X Hikes Premium+ Subscription Prices By 35% In India 23 Dec 2024, 4:54 am

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has raised prices of its top-tier subscription service (Premium+) for his X social media platform by a massive 35 per cent for both new and existing users in India, including across global markets.

Effective from December 21, the Premium users in India will need to shell out Rs 1,750 a month — up from Rs 1,300 now, which is an approximately 35 per cent hike.

Similarly, on an annual basis, the Premium users in the country will need to pay Rs 18,300, up from Rs 13,600 at the moment (up by almost 35 per cent).

This marks the largest price increase since the social media platform's acquisition (earlier called Twitter) by the tech billionaire in 2022.

In India, the basic tier subscription rate remains unchanged at Rs 243 and premium tier at Rs 650 as well.

In the US, the Premium service will cost $22 a month, up from $16. Annual subscription cost has increased to $229 from $168.

“If you're an existing subscriber and your next billing cycle starts before January 20, 2025, you'll be charged at your current rate; otherwise, the new rate will begin with your first billing cycle after that date,” said X.

According to the company, Premium is now completely ads-free, providing an uninterrupted browsing experience.

“This significant enhancement is reflected in the new pricing. Premium subscribers will enjoy higher priority support from @Premium, access to new features such as Radar, and higher limits on our most cutting-edge Grok AI models, ensuring you're always ahead of the curve,” said the social media platform.

“Increased pricing allows us to invest more into making Premium better and better over time,” it added.

X further stated that the company has “shifted its revenue share model to reward content quality and engagement rather than ad views alone”.

“Your Premium subscription fee contributes to this new, more equitable system where creator earnings are tied to the overall value they bring to X, not impressions of ads,” it added.

—IANS

na/

Elon Musk's X Hikes Premium+ Subscription Prices By 35% In India 23 Dec 2024, 4:54 am

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has raised prices of its top-tier subscription service (Premium+) for his X social media platform by a massive 35 per cent for both new and existing users in India, including across global markets.

Effective from December 21, the Premium users in India will need to shell out Rs 1,750 a month — up from Rs 1,300 now, which is an approximately 35 per cent hike.

Similarly, on an annual basis, the Premium users in the country will need to pay Rs 18,300, up from Rs 13,600 at the moment (up by almost 35 per cent).

This marks the largest price increase since the social media platform's acquisition (earlier called Twitter) by the tech billionaire in 2022.

In India, the basic tier subscription rate remains unchanged at Rs 243 and premium tier at Rs 650 as well.

In the US, the Premium service will cost $22 a month, up from $16. Annual subscription cost has increased to $229 from $168.

“If you're an existing subscriber and your next billing cycle starts before January 20, 2025, you'll be charged at your current rate; otherwise, the new rate will begin with your first billing cycle after that date,” said X.

According to the company, Premium is now completely ads-free, providing an uninterrupted browsing experience.

“This significant enhancement is reflected in the new pricing. Premium subscribers will enjoy higher priority support from @Premium, access to new features such as Radar, and higher limits on our most cutting-edge Grok AI models, ensuring you're always ahead of the curve,” said the social media platform.

“Increased pricing allows us to invest more into making Premium better and better over time,” it added.

X further stated that the company has “shifted its revenue share model to reward content quality and engagement rather than ad views alone”.

“Your Premium subscription fee contributes to this new, more equitable system where creator earnings are tied to the overall value they bring to X, not impressions of ads,” it added.

—IANS

na/

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

"Honoured": Chennai-Born Sriram Krishnan, Donald Trump's Pick For AI Advisor 23 Dec 2024, 4:54 am

US President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Sriram Krishnan as senior policy advisor for Artificial Intelligence at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

Sharing a post on the Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, "Sriram Krishnan will serve as Senior Policy Advisor for Artificial Intelligence at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy."

"Working closely with David Sacks, Sriram will focus on ensuring continued American leadership in AI, and help shape and coordinate A.l. policy across Government, including working with the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. Sriram started his career at Microsoft as a founding member of Windows Azure," he said.

?? I'm honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks.

Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this opportunity. pic.twitter.com/kw1n0IKK2a

— Sriram Krishnan (@sriramk) December 22, 2024

Mr Krishnan, 41, acknowledged the offer and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, saying, "I'm honoured to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks . Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this opportunity."

Sanjeev Joshipura, Executive Director of Indiaspora, congratulated Mr Krishnan on his appointment and highlighted his exceptional qualities, calling him as an "insightful thinker."

"We heartily congratulate Sriram Krishnan and are delighted that he has been appointed by President-elect Donald Trump as Senior Policy Advisor in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. For several years, Sriram has been an insightful thinker and influential commentator in the artificial intelligence realm. His previous work blending public policy, international affairs, investing and technology will stand him in good stead as he serves the nation in this important role," he said.

"As Indiaspora continues our convening and thought leadership work on AI in the United States and abroad, we look forward to engaging closely with Sriram," he added.

As per his website, Mr Krishnan till recently was a General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz and a personal investor in over two dozen companies including SpaceX, Figma and Scale.ai. He previously lead organizations at Meta, Twitter/X and Microsoft.

He has a Bachelor of Technology in Information Technology from SRM Engineering College, Anna University.

Mr Krishnan and his wife Aarthi Ramamurthy host the podcast "The Aarthi and Sriram Show."

On Sunday, Trump nominated Mark Burnett as the country 's special envoy to United Kingdom.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump noted that Burnett brings to the table "a unique blend of diplomatic acumen and international recognition" to the important role.

He also noted that Burnett would work in enhancing the diplomatic ties between the US and the UK with a focus on areas of mutual interest such as trade, investment and cultural exchanges.

Earlier, Trump nominated Herschel Walker, a renowned American athlete and businessman, as the United States Ambassador to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.

Walker has been a former Heisman Trophy winner, a National Football League (NFL) great, as well as co-chair of the President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition.

In early December, Trump nominated former Georgia Senator David Perdue as his pick for the US Ambassador to China, Al Jazeera reported.

"As a Fortune 500 CEO, who had a 40-year International business career, and served in the US Senate, David brings valuable expertise to help build our relationship with China. He has lived in Singapore and Hong Kong, and worked in Asia and China for much of his career," Trump said in a post on his social media platform Truth Social."

He will be instrumental in implementing my strategy to maintain peace in the region and a productive working relationship with China's leaders," Trump said, as per Al Jazeera.

"Honoured": Chennai-Born Sriram Krishnan, Donald Trump's Pick For AI Advisor 23 Dec 2024, 4:54 am

US President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Sriram Krishnan as senior policy advisor for Artificial Intelligence at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

Sharing a post on the Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, "Sriram Krishnan will serve as Senior Policy Advisor for Artificial Intelligence at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy."

"Working closely with David Sacks, Sriram will focus on ensuring continued American leadership in AI, and help shape and coordinate A.l. policy across Government, including working with the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. Sriram started his career at Microsoft as a founding member of Windows Azure," he said.

?? I'm honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks.

Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this opportunity. pic.twitter.com/kw1n0IKK2a

— Sriram Krishnan (@sriramk) December 22, 2024

Mr Krishnan, 41, acknowledged the offer and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, saying, "I'm honoured to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks . Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this opportunity."

Sanjeev Joshipura, Executive Director of Indiaspora, congratulated Mr Krishnan on his appointment and highlighted his exceptional qualities, calling him as an "insightful thinker."

"We heartily congratulate Sriram Krishnan and are delighted that he has been appointed by President-elect Donald Trump as Senior Policy Advisor in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. For several years, Sriram has been an insightful thinker and influential commentator in the artificial intelligence realm. His previous work blending public policy, international affairs, investing and technology will stand him in good stead as he serves the nation in this important role," he said.

"As Indiaspora continues our convening and thought leadership work on AI in the United States and abroad, we look forward to engaging closely with Sriram," he added.

As per his website, Mr Krishnan till recently was a General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz and a personal investor in over two dozen companies including SpaceX, Figma and Scale.ai. He previously lead organizations at Meta, Twitter/X and Microsoft.

He has a Bachelor of Technology in Information Technology from SRM Engineering College, Anna University.

Mr Krishnan and his wife Aarthi Ramamurthy host the podcast "The Aarthi and Sriram Show."

On Sunday, Trump nominated Mark Burnett as the country 's special envoy to United Kingdom.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump noted that Burnett brings to the table "a unique blend of diplomatic acumen and international recognition" to the important role.

He also noted that Burnett would work in enhancing the diplomatic ties between the US and the UK with a focus on areas of mutual interest such as trade, investment and cultural exchanges.

Earlier, Trump nominated Herschel Walker, a renowned American athlete and businessman, as the United States Ambassador to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.

Walker has been a former Heisman Trophy winner, a National Football League (NFL) great, as well as co-chair of the President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition.

In early December, Trump nominated former Georgia Senator David Perdue as his pick for the US Ambassador to China, Al Jazeera reported.

"As a Fortune 500 CEO, who had a 40-year International business career, and served in the US Senate, David brings valuable expertise to help build our relationship with China. He has lived in Singapore and Hong Kong, and worked in Asia and China for much of his career," Trump said in a post on his social media platform Truth Social."

He will be instrumental in implementing my strategy to maintain peace in the region and a productive working relationship with China's leaders," Trump said, as per Al Jazeera.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Accused in Allu Arjun house attack get bail, Revanth Reddy link emerges 23 Dec 2024, 4:53 am

Dal Lake Freezes As Srinagar Temperature Drops To Minus 7 23 Dec 2024, 4:50 am

The surface of the Dal Lake on Monday froze as an intense coldwave gripped the Kashmir valley.

The minimum temperature experienced in the city was -7 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature recorded was 7 degrees Celsius, as per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

Visuals showed people sitting around bonfires and wearing warm clothes to protect themselves from the harsh winters.

"The weather has become very cold.. our hands have started freezing and the Dal lake has frozen... this is the first time the city has experienced such a temperature.." said a local resident while speaking to ANI.

Another resident said that snowfall could occur in the city due to the current temperatures.

"There is a very high chance that there might be snowfall here.. it is very cold right now. People should take all measures to protect themselves," said the resident.

The IMD has predicted a severe cold wave in Jammu and Kashmir December 24 onwards.

Earlier on December 22, the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had cancelled his scheduled programmes in Jammu to oversee the working of the power and other departments amid the severe cold spell in the state.

"In light of the severe cold spell in the Kashmir valley & the resultant difficulties with water & electricity supply, I have decided to cancel my forthcoming programmes in Jammu & station myself in Srinagar for the next week to personally monitor the functioning of the Power department & other important departments," Abdullah posted on X while travelling to Srinagar from Rajasthan's Jaisalmer.

He assured that he would make up to the people and organisations whose programmes have been affected after he cancelled his visit to Jammu.

10 killed after small plane crashes in Brazil's Gramado 23 Dec 2024, 4:50 am

Delhi High Court Orders CLAT-2025 Results Revision Over Answer Key Errors 23 Dec 2024, 4:46 am

The Delhi High Court has directed the Consortium of National Law Universities to revise the CLAT-2025 (Common Law Admission Test) results due to errors in the answer key. The court stated that these mistakes could affect the merit list and candidates' rankings. It emphasised the importance of fairness and correcting errors to avoid injustice to the students.  

Justice Jyoti Singh, heading the bench, remarked, "The errors in Question Nos. 14 and 100 are demonstrably clear, and shutting a blind eye to the same would be an injustice to the petitioner, albeit this court is conscious of the fact that it may impact the result of other candidates."  

The case was brought forward by Aditya Singh, a minor, who challenged the answer key for CLAT-2025, which is used for admissions to five-year law programs at National Law Universities (NLUs). Aditya argued that rectifying these errors would raise his score from 87 to 93.25, improving his ranking and increasing his chances of securing admission to one of the top three NLUs.  

The Consortium of NLUs defended the examination process, highlighting that the results were finalised after recommendations from expert committees. However, the court noted that while judicial intervention in academic matters should be rare, it is necessary in exceptional cases where errors are clear and cause injustice to candidates.  

The judgment also clarified that language comprehension questions do not require candidates to apply legal reasoning or analyse constitutional provisions. The court partially allowed Aditya's petition, ordering the award of marks for Question 14 and confirming the exclusion of Question 100.  

The CLAT examination consists of 120 questions and lasts for two hours. The CLAT UG paper covers topics such as the English language, current affairs (including general knowledge), logical reasoning, legal reasoning, and quantitative techniques. The CLAT PG paper includes questions on constitutional law and other legal areas, such as jurisprudence, family law, criminal law, property law, administrative law, contract law, torts, company law, public international law, tax law, environmental law, and labor and industrial law.  

(With inputs from IANS)

Seven killed after small aircraft crashes in western Mexico 23 Dec 2024, 4:37 am

Who Is Sriram Krishnan, Indian-American Appointed Donald Trump's AI Advisor 23 Dec 2024, 4:28 am

US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Indian-American entrepreneur and venture capitalist Sriram Krishnan as the senior White House policy advisor on artificial intelligence (AI). In a statement, Trump said Krishnan would shape and coordinate AI policy across the government. His work entails “working with the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.” The 78-year-old also mentioned Krishnan's career, particularly his accomplishments as a founding member of Microsoft's Windows Azure team.

I am pleased to announce the brilliant Team that will be working in conjunction with our White House A.I. & Crypto Czar, David O. Sacks. Together, we will unleash scientific breakthroughs, ensure America's technological dominance, and usher in a Golden Age of American Innovation!…

— Trump Posts on ???? (@trump_repost) December 22, 2024

Mr Krishnan, sharing his excitement, said he would collaborate with David O. Sacks, the former COO of PayPal, the White House AI & Crypto Czar.

???????? I'm honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks.

Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this opportunity. pic.twitter.com/kw1n0IKK2a

— Sriram Krishnan (@sriramk) December 22, 2024

5 key points about Sriram Krishnan:

1) Sriram Krishnan was born in Chennai, and he completed his BTech in Information Technology from SRM Engineering College in Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. He moved to the US in 2005 at the age of 21. His father worked in insurance, and his mother was a homemaker.

2) Mr Krishnan's journey in the tech world began at Microsoft in 2005. He also led product teams at Twitter, Yahoo!, Facebook and Snap. He developed mobile ad products during his tenure at Facebook (now Meta) and Snap.

3) He shares a professional bond with billionaire Elon Musk, who is also a part of Trump 2.0. Mr Krishnan worked with Musk to revamp Twitter (now X) after its acquisition in 2022. The entrepreneur has also been an advocate for leveraging technology to solve challenges between AI-driven models, like OpenAI's ChatGPT, and large internet platforms.

4) In February 2021, Krishnan became a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), a venture capital firm. By 2023, he was leading the company's London office. Krishnan left the organisation in November 2023.

5) He also gained recognition in 2021 as host of the podcast ‘The Aarthi and Sriram Show' (formerly known as ‘The Good Time Show'). Mr Krishnan works on it with his wife, Aarthi Ramamurthy.

Monali Thakur walks out of concert due to mismanagement: Everything was a mess 23 Dec 2024, 4:27 am

'Such A Showman': Karan Johar After Attending Karan Aujla's Mumbai Concert 23 Dec 2024, 4:26 am

With 85 Sharia courts, UK becomes western capital for Islamic rulings 23 Dec 2024, 4:26 am

With 85 Sharia courts, UK becomes western capital for Islamic rulings 23 Dec 2024, 4:26 am

Vinod Khanna, Rishi Kapoor 'Jumped To Their Feet' When They Saw Sridevi: 'Ranjeet, Shakti Kapoor Were...' 23 Dec 2024, 4:22 am

Varun Dhawan Responds To Nutritionist’s Criticism Over His Black Coffee And Gut Trouble Remark 23 Dec 2024, 4:18 am

Indian-Americans upbeat on appointment of Sriram Krishnan as AI policy advisor on Trump’s team 23 Dec 2024, 4:17 am

Watch: Mira Rajput Makes A Rare Appearance With Daughter Misha In Mumbai 23 Dec 2024, 4:17 am

Thepla And A Drink: Liquor On Debut Surat-Bangkok Flight Runs Out, Officials Say... 23 Dec 2024, 4:16 am

Air India Express' inaugural 4-hour flight from Surat in Gujarat to Thailand capital Bangkok saw good sales of liquor onboard, with some passengers claiming the stock ran out.

The flight, operated with a Boeing 737-8 aircraft on Friday, had 175 passengers and six crew members onboard. The passenger capacity of the plane is 176.

Officials at the budget airline on Sunday said there was brisk sales of alcohol on the flight from Surat to Bangkok and the stock was not exhausted, as claimed by some on social media.

Some passengers had taken to social media saying the airline ran out of alcohol.

There was sufficient stock of liquor as well as food onboard, the officials added.

There was no official statement from Tata Group-owned Air India Express.

According to the officials, generally, a passenger is not served more than 100 ml of liquor during a flight.

The airline offers five types of liquor onboard. A 50 ml of Chivas Regal is priced at Rs 600 while 50 ml each of Red Label, Bacardi White Rum and Beefeater Gin cost Rs 400. It also offers 330 ml Bira Lager for Rs 400.

When it comes to food, passengers can either pre-book or buy during the flight.

Liquor consumption is prohibited in Gujarat. 

MP: ED registers money laundering case against ex-constable Sharma 23 Dec 2024, 4:12 am

Aishwarya Rai And Aaradhya Stopped At Mumbai Airport, Actress Gets Protective Of Daughter | Watch Video 23 Dec 2024, 4:09 am

Bashar al-Assad's wife files for divorce, unhappy with life in Moscow: Report 23 Dec 2024, 4:07 am

Bashar al-Assad's wife files for divorce, unhappy with life in Moscow: Report 23 Dec 2024, 4:07 am

"Ran For My Life": Woman Shares "Nightmarish" Experience With Ola Cab In Gurgaon 23 Dec 2024, 4:03 am

In a chilling account that has sparked widespread concern over passenger safety, a woman recently took to LinkedIn to share her traumatic experience with Ola Cabs during a ride to Gurgaon. The incident, which occurred on December 20 at approximately 1.30 pm, raises serious questions about the safety protocols and accountability of ride-hailing services in India, especially for women passengers.

The ordeal began after the cab crossed the toll plaza en route to Gurgaon. The driver inexplicably slowed down the vehicle, ignoring the passenger's repeated inquiries about the reason. Moments later, two men ahead of the cab signalled for the driver to pull over. To the passenger's shock and dismay, the driver complied without hesitation, parking the car on the side of the road as per their instructions.

Despite the passenger's urgent questioning about why the driver was obeying these strangers, she was met with silence. The situation escalated further when two additional men on bikes joined the scene, making it a total of five men, including the driver. This alarming development took place near the National Media Centre, a relatively deserted stretch of road with sparse traffic.

Adding to the tension, the driver cryptically remarked, "Meri kist pending hai" (my instalment is due), implying some financial dealings with the men. Terrified, the passenger insisted that the driver continue the trip, but her pleas fell on deaf ears. Instead, the men began approaching the cab, leaving her with no choice but to take immediate action. Summoning her courage, she opened the door on the right side of the cab and ran to safety.

To compound the terrifying experience, the passenger attempted to use the SOS button on the Ola app, but it did not work.

The incident has reignited discussions about the safety of ride-hailing services in India, particularly for women travelling alone. The passenger has called upon Ola and its CEO, Bhavish Aggarwal, to take immediate and concrete steps to address the safety concerns highlighted by her ordeal. She emphasized that safety is not merely a feature but a fundamental responsibility that must be prioritized.

NDTV contacted the woman to ask if Ola reached out regarding the incident. She confirmed that they did, however, the investigation and further actions are still pending.

"Ran For My Life": Gurgaon Woman Shares Traumatic Experience With Ola Cab 23 Dec 2024, 4:03 am

In a chilling account that has sparked widespread concern over passenger safety, a woman recently took to LinkedIn to share her traumatic experience with Ola Cabs during a ride to Gurgaon. The incident, which occurred on December 20 at approximately 1.30 pm, raises serious questions about the safety protocols and accountability of ride-hailing services in India, especially for women passengers.

The ordeal began after the cab crossed the toll plaza en route to Gurgaon. The driver inexplicably slowed down the vehicle, ignoring the passenger's repeated inquiries about the reason. Moments later, two men ahead of the cab signalled for the driver to pull over. To the passenger's shock and dismay, the driver complied without hesitation, parking the car on the side of the road as per their instructions.

Despite the passenger's urgent questioning about why the driver was obeying these strangers, she was met with silence. The situation escalated further when two additional men on bikes joined the scene, making it a total of five men, including the driver. This alarming development took place near the National Media Centre, a relatively deserted stretch of road with sparse traffic.

Adding to the tension, the driver cryptically remarked, "Meri kist pending hai" (my instalment is due), implying some financial dealings with the men. Terrified, the passenger insisted that the driver continue the trip, but her pleas fell on deaf ears. Instead, the men began approaching the cab, leaving her with no choice but to take immediate action. Summoning her courage, she opened the door on the right side of the cab and ran to safety.

To compound the terrifying experience, the passenger attempted to use the SOS button on the Ola app, but it did not work.

The incident has reignited discussions about the safety of ride-hailing services in India, particularly for women travelling alone. The passenger has called upon Ola and its CEO, Bhavish Aggarwal, to take immediate and concrete steps to address the safety concerns highlighted by her ordeal. She emphasized that safety is not merely a feature but a fundamental responsibility that must be prioritized.

NDTV contacted the woman to ask if Ola reached out regarding the incident. She confirmed that they did, however, the investigation and further actions are still pending.

"Ran For My Life": Gurgaon Woman Shares Traumatic Experience With Ola Cab 23 Dec 2024, 4:03 am

In a chilling account that has sparked widespread concern over passenger safety, a woman recently took to LinkedIn to share her traumatic experience with Ola Cabs during a ride to Gurgaon. The incident, which occurred on December 20 at approximately 1.30 pm, raises serious questions about the safety protocols and accountability of ride-hailing services in India, especially for women passengers.

The ordeal began after the cab crossed the toll plaza en route to Gurgaon. The driver inexplicably slowed down the vehicle, ignoring the passenger's repeated inquiries about the reason. Moments later, two men ahead of the cab signalled for the driver to pull over. To the passenger's shock and dismay, the driver complied without hesitation, parking the car on the side of the road as per their instructions.

Despite the passenger's urgent questioning about why the driver was obeying these strangers, she was met with silence. The situation escalated further when two additional men on bikes joined the scene, making it a total of five men, including the driver. This alarming development took place near the National Media Centre, a relatively deserted stretch of road with sparse traffic.

Adding to the tension, the driver cryptically remarked, "Meri kist pending hai" (my instalment is due), implying some financial dealings with the men. Terrified, the passenger insisted that the driver continue the trip, but her pleas fell on deaf ears. Instead, the men began approaching the cab, leaving her with no choice but to take immediate action. Summoning her courage, she opened the door on the right side of the cab and ran to safety.

To compound the terrifying experience, the passenger attempted to use the SOS button on the Ola app, but it did not work.

The incident has reignited discussions about the safety of ride-hailing services in India, particularly for women travelling alone. The passenger has called upon Ola and its CEO, Bhavish Aggarwal, to take immediate and concrete steps to address the safety concerns highlighted by her ordeal. She emphasized that safety is not merely a feature but a fundamental responsibility that must be prioritized.

NDTV contacted the woman to ask if Ola reached out regarding the incident. She confirmed that they did, however, the investigation and further actions are still pending.

Define BCCI, ICC, Indian Cricket In One Word Each: Smith, Head's Epic Reply 23 Dec 2024, 4:01 am

Australian cricket might have dominated ICC events, winning the most trophies, but Indian cricket is arguably considered the breadwinner for the sport. Over the last two decades, Indian cricket has grown leaps and bounds, challenging the Aussies and other top nations on every front. The Board of Control for Cricket In India (BCCI) has played a big role in Indian cricket's rise. In the form of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the BCCI has also given the cricket world a top franchise-based T20 league. Hence, even when Australian cricketers were asked about their views on the India board, they only had good things to say.

In a video shared on social media, a few Australian cricketers were asked to define the BCCI, the ICC, and Indian cricket as a whole in one word each. Some epic responses were received.

Order of responses: BCCI, ICC, Indian cricket

Pat Cummins: Big, Big, Big

Travis Head: Rulers, second, strong

Usman Khawaja: Strong, ICC, Talented

Nathan Lyon: Big, Boss, Passionate

Glenn Maxwell: Powerful, Boss, Fanatic

Matthew Carey: Powerful, Trophy, Powerful

Steve Smith: Powerhouse, not as powerful (changes it to leaders)

Describe the BCCI, the ICC and Indian cricket in one word....

Don't worry everyone, Smudge was just jokin! pic.twitter.com/AxJZJT15P8

— ABC SPORT (@abcsport) December 23, 2024

The likes of Head and Smith arguably gave the most intriguing responses. While Head didn't budge on his verdict, Smith decided to change his response later, calling the first one 'a joke'.

Indian and Australian teams are locked in a 5-match Test series at present, with the scores being 1-1 after the first three matches. While India won the opening Test in Perth, Australia bounced back to win the contest between the bat and the ball in Adelaide. The two teams are next set to square off in Melbourne, with the match starting on December 26.

"Affecting Reputation": Malaysia Airlines Grounds New Airbus Jet Over Safety 23 Dec 2024, 4:00 am

Malaysia Airlines has grounded its new Airbus A330neo jet just days after its maiden flight because of technical issues, local media reported, another operational setback for the national carrier.

"The root cause is coming from the factory and it is affecting the reputation and brand of Malaysia Airlines," Chief Executive Officer Izham Ismail was quoted as saying in the New Straits Times on Sunday

"Safety is paramount. I will not risk anything on safety."

Ismail said technical faults with a new aircraft were "not acceptable", adding: "To me, it's embarrassing."

The newspaper said plane's inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne on December 19 was marred by technical issues.

AFP was unable to get comment from Malaysia Airlines.

The airline has suffered several setbacks this year, with reduced routes and manpower issues.

In 2022, it agreed to acquire 20 Airbus A330neo planes to update its fleet of widebody jets.

The A330neo, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, is considered more fuel-efficient.

"We need Airbus and Rolls-Royce to investigate the root cause of these issues on the brand-new aircraft," Izham told the New Straits Times.

Rolls-Royce told the paper that it had found a faulty component, while Airbus said it was ready to assist Malaysia Airlines.

Gold Rate Today In India: Check 22 Carat Price In Your City On December 23 23 Dec 2024, 3:59 am

102 Empty AK Cartridges, Ammunition Seized In Manipur 23 Dec 2024, 3:59 am

The Manipur security forces conducted search operations and area domination in the vulnerable hill and valley districts, following which they recovered a large weapons cache.

These operations were carried out to maintain order and prevent any escalation in the region, said the Manipur Police in an official statement on Sunday.

According to the Manipur Police, during the search operations in Phayeng Porom Hill and the K Songlung area under Imphal West and Kangpokpi districts, the security forces recovered several items. These included 11 live rounds of SLR ammunition, one magazine of SLR, 66 empty cartridges of SLR, a radio set battery and antenna, one misfired AK round, 102 empty AK cartridges, two empty SLR cartridges, one 12-bore cartridge, and one locally made bomb. These items were found as part of the ongoing operations to maintain peace in the region.

In a follow-up to an incident that occurred on October 1, in which armed miscreants had forcibly snatched an SUV (Fortuner) from a civilian in Imphal West, it was discovered that the stolen vehicle had been used by an AT member, Asem Kanan Singh (50), from Uripok Sorbon Thingel, Imphal West, and his associates, the police statement added.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, a combined team of security forces raided the residence of Asem Kanan Singh but was unable to locate the accused or his associates, said the Manipur Police. However, during the raid, several items were seized, including a DVD machine of a CCTV camera, an i-20 vehicle, three olive-green bags, a yellow life jacket marked SDRF, an air gun (Hurricane MOD-18), and two bulletproof jackets with metal plates.

In another development from yesterday, the Manipur Police arrested Khumbongmayum Abhijit Singh (26), an active cadre of PREPAK, from the Kakching Chumnang area in Kakching District.

Furthermore, the press release added that the movement of 371 vehicles carrying essential items along NH-2 had been ensured under strict security measures. Security forces are providing convoy protection in sensitive areas to ensure the safe passage of these vehicles.

As per the official statement, "A total of 106 Nakas/Checkpoints were installed in different districts of Manipur, both in the hill and the valley, and no one was detained by the police in connection with violations in different districts of the state."

The Manipur Police have also appealed to the public to refrain from believing rumors and to verify any false videos. The public has been urged to confirm the authenticity of any circulated videos with the Central Control Room at the rumour-free number, 9233522822.

Additionally, the Manipur Police said, "An appeal is made to the public to return the looted arms, ammunition, and explosives to the police or nearest security forces immediately."

Celebs named in Blake's lawsuit against Baldoni 23 Dec 2024, 3:51 am

'Time for PM to step aside': Canada's Trudeau faces internal revolt, calls for resignation grow 23 Dec 2024, 3:50 am

Drunk Driver Runs Over Several On Pune Footpath, 2 Toddlers Among 3 Dead 23 Dec 2024, 3:41 am

Three people, including two children, died on Monday when a dumper truck run over people sleeping on a footpath in Pune.

Among the dead was a man, while six others were injured, when the truck driver ran over the people in Wagholi around 12.30 am. The dead have been identified as Vaibhavi Pawar (1), Vaibhav Pawar (2) and Vishal Pawar (22). The injured have been admitted to the Sassoon General Hospital.

"There were many people sleeping on the footpath near Kesnand Phata area, most of them labourers. They were run over by a truck," a senior police official told PTI.

Locals told IANS that most of them were labourers sleeping shanties, who had arrived in Pune from Maharashtra's Amravati on Sunday to work at construction sites.

The truck driver has been detained and it is being ascertained if he was under the influence of alcohol.

New York Governor criticized over 'Safe subways' claim on same day woman burned alive on train 23 Dec 2024, 3:38 am

Rashmika Mandanna stuns in Pakistani kurta set 23 Dec 2024, 3:37 am

Epigamia's Co-Founder Rohan Mirchandani Passes Away At 42 Due To Cardiac Arrest 23 Dec 2024, 3:36 am

IBSAT 2024 Registration Deadline Today, Check Details 23 Dec 2024, 3:33 am

The ICFAI Business School (IBS) will close the registration window for the ICFAI Business Studies Aptitude Test (IBSAT 2024) today. Candidates can submit their online applications. Interested and eligible candidates can apply by visiting the official website, general.ibsindia.org. The IBSAT 2024 test is scheduled to be conducted on December 28 and 29, 2024.  

IBSAT 2024: Steps To Apply
Step 1. Go to the official website, general.ibsindia.org.  
Step 2. Click on the "Apply Now" link on the homepage.  
Step 3. You will be redirected to a new page.  
Step 4. Register and make the payment.  
Step 5. Submit the form and save it.  
Step 6. Take a hard copy for future reference.  

IBSAT 2024: Application Fee  
Candidates are required to pay an application fee of Rs 1,800.  

IBSAT 2024: Important Dates
  
IBSAT 2024 Result: First week of January 2025  

Selection Briefings: January 10-19, 2025, at over 70 locations across India, including major cities and towns  

Selection Process for MBA/PGPM Program: February 15-24, 2025, at IBS Hyderabad  

IBSAT 2024 will be conducted as a computer-based test (CBT) lasting two hours. The test evaluates applicants' abilities in quantitative techniques, data interpretation, data adequacy, vocabulary, analytical reasoning, and reading comprehension.  

In addition to IBSAT 2024, the institute accepts scores from the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), NMAT (NMIMS Management Aptitude Test), and CAT (Common Admission Test) from 2018 onwards.  

Scholarship Opportunity
 A scholarship program worth Rs 10 crores is available for 500 students, with each scholarship valued at Rs 2 lakhs. The selection will be based on the IBSAT 2024 exam, scheduled exclusively for December 28 and 29, 2024.  

Kumar Vishwas invokes Ramayana in veiled dig at Shatrughan Sinha, stokes row 23 Dec 2024, 3:33 am

Kohli, Jadeja's media controversies are mind games: Simon Katich 23 Dec 2024, 3:30 am

Why is baasi roti the best breakfast for all age groups? 23 Dec 2024, 3:30 am

Allu Arjun's Kids Allu Arha, Allu Ayaan Forced To Leave Home After Protestors Vandalise Home | Watch 23 Dec 2024, 3:29 am

Diljit Dosanjh Was To Play Priyanka Chopra's Husband In A Film, Says Boney Kapoor: '2 Years We Waited For Her' 23 Dec 2024, 3:28 am

Jail, Bail & Politics Ka Khel: How AAP Navigated A Challenging Year Ahead Of 2025 Polls 23 Dec 2024, 3:11 am

Donald Trump Appoints Indian-American, Elon Musk Aide As AI Advisor 23 Dec 2024, 3:10 am

US President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday named Indian American entrepreneur, venture capitalist and author Sriram Krishnan as Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence.

“Sriram Krishnan will serve as the Senior Policy Advisor for Artificial Intelligence at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy,” Trump said on Sunday as he announced a number of appointments on artificial intelligence or AI.

Krishnan, who has previously led product teams at Microsoft, Twitter, Yahoo!, Facebook and Snap, will work along with David O. Sacks who will be the White House AI & Crypto Czar.

“Working closely with David Sacks, Sriram will focus on ensuring continued American leadership in AI and help shape and coordinate AI policy across government, including working with the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. Sriram started his career at Microsoft as a founding member of Windows Azure,” Trump said.

Krishnan said, “I'm honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with David Sacks.” Krishnan's appointment has been welcomed by the Indian American community.

?? I'm honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks.

Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this opportunity. pic.twitter.com/kw1n0IKK2a

— Sriram Krishnan (@sriramk) December 22, 2024

“We heartily congratulate Sriram Krishnan and are delighted that he has been appointed by President-elect Donald Trump as Senior Policy Advisor in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy,” said Indiaspora's executive director Sanjeev Joshipura.

“For several years, Sriram has been an insightful thinker and influential commentator in the artificial intelligence realm. His previous work blending public policy, international affairs, investing and technology will stand him in good stead as he serves the nation in this important role,” he added.

“As Indiaspora continues our convening and thought leadership work on AI in the United States and abroad, we look forward to engaging closely with Sriram,” Joshipura said.

Donald Trump Appoints Indian-American, Elon Musk Aide As AI Advisor 23 Dec 2024, 3:10 am

US President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday named Indian American entrepreneur, venture capitalist and author Sriram Krishnan as Senior White House Policy Advisor on Artificial Intelligence.

“Sriram Krishnan will serve as the Senior Policy Advisor for Artificial Intelligence at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy,” Trump said on Sunday as he announced a number of appointments on artificial intelligence or AI.

Krishnan, who has previously led product teams at Microsoft, Twitter, Yahoo!, Facebook and Snap, will work along with David O. Sacks who will be the White House AI & Crypto Czar.

“Working closely with David Sacks, Sriram will focus on ensuring continued American leadership in AI and help shape and coordinate AI policy across government, including working with the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. Sriram started his career at Microsoft as a founding member of Windows Azure,” Trump said.

Krishnan said, “I'm honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with David Sacks.” Krishnan's appointment has been welcomed by the Indian American community.

🇺🇸 I'm honored to be able to serve our country and ensure continued American leadership in AI working closely with @DavidSacks.

Thank you @realDonaldTrump for this opportunity. pic.twitter.com/kw1n0IKK2a

— Sriram Krishnan (@sriramk) December 22, 2024

“We heartily congratulate Sriram Krishnan and are delighted that he has been appointed by President-elect Donald Trump as Senior Policy Advisor in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy,” said Indiaspora's executive director Sanjeev Joshipura.

“For several years, Sriram has been an insightful thinker and influential commentator in the artificial intelligence realm. His previous work blending public policy, international affairs, investing and technology will stand him in good stead as he serves the nation in this important role,” he added.

“As Indiaspora continues our convening and thought leadership work on AI in the United States and abroad, we look forward to engaging closely with Sriram,” Joshipura said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Brazil Businessman, 9 Members Of His Family Killed In Plane Crash 23 Dec 2024, 3:05 am

Ten members of a family died early Sunday when their small plane slammed into a commercial district in the city of Gramado in southern Brazil, civil defense authorities said. Officials had earlier put the death count at nine.

The plane, a Piper Cheyenne 400 turboprop, was being flown by a businessman named Luiz Claudio Salgueiro Galeazzi, police confirmed to AFP, and the passengers were all family members of his.

The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from the nearby city of Canela, striking the chimney of a building and then a house before falling onto a furniture store, the Rio Grande do Sul state security secretariat said in a statement.

An inn was also damaged, it added.

"There are no survivors of the plane," Cleber dos Santos Lima of the state civil police told AFP.

At least 17 people were injured on the ground, two of them seriously, while several others were treated for smoke inhalation.

The cause of the accident is under investigation.

Gramado is a popular tourist city in Brazil, with a significant influx of visitors during the Christmas season.

Last August, Brazil suffered its worst air tragedy in 17 years, when a twin-engine plane with 62 people aboard crashed in the city of Vinhedo in Sao Paulo state. There were no survivors.

And in one of the country's worst traffic accidents in years, 41 people died in a bus crash Saturday in the southeastern state of Minas Gerais.

"Demonic" US Man Beheads 1-Year-Old Son, Injures Wife, Mother-In-Law 23 Dec 2024, 3:04 am

A man in the US has been arrested for allegedly beheading his one-year-old son with a knife and attacking his wife and mother-in-law, officials said.

The accused, Andrey Demskiy, described as "demonic" by the New York Post, first attacked his wife and mother-in-law around 4 am on Friday. The two women then fled the residence and called the police.

When the police arrived and attempted to contact Demskiy at the residence, the 28-year-old refused to answer the door and surrender "peacefully", the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office said in an official statement.

"A short time later, Deputies learned that a one-year-old male child was inside the residence alone with Demskiy, and that he had possibly injured the child after throwing him," the statement read.

Fearing for the child's safety, the police officers "forced" entry into the residence and attempted to detain Demskiy, who was "uncooperative" and became "physically resistive", the officials said.

As they took him into custody, they recovered the severed child's head in the bedroom where Demskiy was contacted and detained.

Based on their investigation, officials said that Demskiy was initially involved in a domestic violence incident with his wife and mother-in-law and once they exited the residence, he used a knife to behead and murder his one-year-old son.

He has been sent to the Sacramento County Main Jail for the "gruesome" murder and is scheduled to appear in court on December 24.

Pushpa 2 Box Office Day 18: Allu Arjun's Stampede Controversy Has No Impact On BO, Film Earns Rs 1062 Cr 23 Dec 2024, 2:59 am

3 Khalistani terrorists, who attacked Punjab Police post, killed in UP encounter 23 Dec 2024, 2:56 am

UP Man Buries Friend's Body After Tractor Crash, Arrested 2 Days Later 23 Dec 2024, 2:55 am

A man buried his friend's body after it was mangled in a tractor accident in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur and fled, but was caught two days later.

Sandeep, accompanied by his friend Ajit Kushwaha, was driving a tractor in a field, when the latter fell and got stuck in the vehicle's rotavator. Scared of the consequences, Sandeep took the help of some friends to take the body to another field and bury it there.

When Kushwaha was nowhere to be found for two days, his family members started searching for him and also informed the police. Residents of the Sanigwan area raised an uproar over the missing youth's whereabouts.

Soon, Kushwaha's slippers, clothes and some blood stains were found near the spot where the body was buried. Amid ruckus, the police deployed a JCB machine and retrieved the body.

Four people have been arrested in the case, including the main accused Sandeep.

BJP MLA Harish Shakya Among 16 Others Accused Of Gangrape In UP 23 Dec 2024, 2:53 am

A case of alleged gang rape has been registered against BJP MLA Harish Shakya, his brother Satendra Shakya, among 16 others, in Badaun, Uttar Pradesh. The Civil Lines Police Station filed the case following a court order. The allegations include sexual assault, land grabbing, and other offenses.

The victim's family, residents of a village in the Ujhani Kotwali area, owns 25 bighas of land valued in crores. The MLA, who represents Bilsi and is a former district president of the BJP, allegedly wanted to purchase this land at a very low price. When the family reportedly refused, they claimed they faced threats and harassment.

The victim alleged that a fake rape case was filed against her husband, who was abducted and tortured. She was allegedly lured to the MLA's camp office under the pretext of resolving the matter but was sexually assaulted there by the MLA, his brother, and others. They also allegedly forced her to sign three agreements related to the land.

The family approached the MP/MLA Special Judge, Leelu Chaudhary, who directed the police to register a case and investigate. The police have now filed an FIR against the MLA and the other accused.

The victim's complaint details a pattern of alleged threats and harassment. She alleged that her cousin, Rohit, was kidnapped, beaten, and forced to persuade her family to sell their land. Following the ordeal, Rohit allegedly died by suicide in August 2022. Furthermore, the family claimed that their attempts to seek justice were met with inaction from the authorities.

The victim also alleged that the accused destroyed their standing crops and used pressure tactics to force them to sell the land at a lower price.

However, MLA Harish Shakya has denied the allegations, calling them baseless. The BJP leader claimed it to be a conspiracy to tarnish his image and added that he has full faith in the police and judiciary.

Meanwhile, the case has raised serious concerns, and the police have initiated an inquiry. The victim's family has demanded a thorough investigation, including polygraph and narco tests.

Single Chinese Women Are Doing Maternity Photoshoots Wearing Fake Baby Bumps. Here's Why 23 Dec 2024, 2:51 am

Reflecting a changing societal landscape, single women in China are now opting for maternity photoshoots with fake baby bumps, capturing this milestone in their lives despite the country's declining birth rate and low marriage rates. This trend, as reported by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), challenges traditional Chinese values that once stigmatized single pregnancy.

The rise of this trend can be attributed to women's desire to capture beautiful maternity photos while maintaining their current physique, anticipating potential body changes during future pregnancies.

The "premade maternity photos" trend gained national attention after a Generation Z influencer shared a video and photos of her experience on social media. Meizi Gege, who boasts over 5.7 million followers on a prominent social media platform, explained, "While I'm still slim, I wore a fake belly to take maternity photos and enjoyed a pre-made life. I even did it with my best friend!"

In the video, Meizi proudly displays her slim figure while wearing the "fake belly." According to SCMP, a 26-year-old woman revealed she had taken her maternity photos at 23, despite not being married, while another woman mentioned taking wedding photos at 22, "just in case I get wrinkles by 30."

However, the trend has sparked criticism for promoting narrow beauty standards that idealize being "white, skinny, and young." Critics argue that it fosters body image anxiety among new mothers by perpetuating the unrealistic expectation that women should maintain a youthful, slim figure during pregnancy.

A user wrote, " I will shoot my 70th birthday photos now and then post them on social media later. It will make me look so young!"

"I will find some time to arrange my funeral pictures before I die," another user wrote on Chinese social media platform. 

'People have learned to take disorder as order': VP Dhankar's jibe at MPs after Parliament ruckus 23 Dec 2024, 2:49 am

Watch: Bridge collapses in Brazil, tanker carrying sulfuric acid plunges into river 23 Dec 2024, 2:47 am

Allu Arjun's Residence Vandalised: Case Registered Against 6 For Pelting Stones At Pushpa 2 Actor's Home 23 Dec 2024, 2:46 am

Trump vows to rename North America's highest peak back to Mount McKinley 23 Dec 2024, 2:45 am

Man Sets New York Woman On Fire, Watches Her Burn To Death Inside Train 23 Dec 2024, 2:45 am

In what is being called a "senseless killing", a man in New York has been arrested for igniting a woman in a train car and watching her burn to death. Narrating the incident during a press briefing, Jessica Tisch, New York Police Department Commissioner defined it as "one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being." It took the life of an "innocent New Yorker".

The incident occurred on Sunday morning, around 7:30 am when the man and the victim were riding an F train to the end of the line at Stillwell Avenue in Brooklyn.

"As the train pulled into the station, the suspect calmly walked up to the victim, who is in a seated position at the end of a subway car. The suspect used what we believe to be a lighter to ignite the victim's clothing which became fully engulfed in a matter of seconds," said Ms Tisch.

Officers on patrol on that station's upper level smelled and saw smoke and went to investigate. They saw a person, standing inside a train car, fully engulfed in flames.

"With the help of an MTA employee and fire extinguisher, the flames were put out. Unfortunately, it was too late and the victim was pronounced (dead) on the scene," Ms Tisch added.

According to the New York Police, the suspect had stayed on the scene. The man was found seated on a bench, on a platform, just outside the train car. The body-worn cameras on the responding officers produced a detailed look at the killer.

"After the NYPD disseminated those images, 3 High School age New Yorkers called 911 to say that they recognise the suspect," she added.

The man was arrested from another train and was found with a lighter in his pockets.

There was no interaction between the two - victim and the suspect, said NYPD's Chief of Transit Joseph Gulotta. "We don't believe they knew each other," he added.

The woman has not yet been identified.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Sunday praised the people who helped alert authorities to the suspect.

"This type of depraved behavior has no place in our subways and we are committed to working hard to ensure there is swift justice for all victims of violent crime," Adams said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Grateful to the young New Yorkers and transit officers who stepped up to help our NYPD make a quick arrest following this morning's heinous and deadly subway attack.

This type of depraved behavior has no place in our subways and we are committed to working hard to ensure there… https://t.co/TWs3iaC099

— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) December 22, 2024

"My prayers are with the family of the victim in this senseless killing," he added.

Panama's President hits back after Trump's threat to take over Panama Canal 23 Dec 2024, 2:45 am

Don't Need "Proxy Force" To Take Action: Iran Ayatollah's Latest Warning 23 Dec 2024, 2:45 am

Iran's supreme leader denied Sunday that militant groups around the region functioned as Tehran's proxies, warning that if his country chose to "take action", it would not need them anyway.

The remarks came after a year in which Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza suffered heavy losses in wars with Israel, and two weeks after the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who had been a key link in Tehran's so-called axis of resistance.

Another spoke of that axis, Yemen's Huthi rebels, have been repeatedly targeted by the United States and Britain over their attacks on Red Sea shipping lanes, launched in solidarity with Palestinians.

"The Islamic Republic does not have a proxy force. Yemen fights because it has faith. Hezbollah fights because the power of faith draws it into the field. Hamas and (the Islamic) Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so. They do not act as our proxy," Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told a group of visitors in Tehran.

"They (the Americans) keep saying that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake," he said, adding: "If one day we want to take action, we do not need a proxy force."

Earlier this month, Syrian rebels' lightning push to Damascus from their strongholds in the northwest ended the decades-long rule of Assad's family, which had been an ally of Tehran.

Khamenei predicted "the emergence of a strong, honourable group" in Syria, saying the country's young men had "nothing to lose."

"His university, school, home, street and life are insecure; what should he do? He must stand with strength and determination against those who have designed this insecurity and those who have implemented it, and God willing, he will overcome them."

Assad had long played a strategic role in Iran's anti-Israel axis of resistance, particularly in facilitating the supply of weapons to Hezbollah in neighbouring Lebanon.

The axis of resistance also includes Hamas, the Huthis and smaller Shia militia groups in Iraq.

All of the groups are united in their opposition to Israel and its main backer the United States.

The supreme leader, who has the final say in major state policies, also accused the United States of trying to create chaos and unrest in Iran.

"The Iranian nation will trample under its strong feet anyone who accepts America's mercenary role in this regard," he said.

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Rain Brings The Chill To Delhi, But Air Quality Remains "Severe" 23 Dec 2024, 2:21 am

The national capital continues to grapple with toxic air quality. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded was 410 at 6 a.m. on Monday which falls in the 'severe' category.

A thin layer of fog blanketed the city, reducing visibility, while the minimum temperature dropped to 9.2 degrees Celsius at 5:30 a.m., according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). A cloudy sky with light rain was experienced.

Visuals emerged which showed people taking refuge in the night shelter homes located at Lodhi Road to protect themselves from the harsh winters.

"The temperatures have dropped here because it has been raining... the rain started around 5 am today.." said a local.

Several areas in Delhi reported alarming AQI levels, including Wazirpur (464), Ashok Vihar (460), Mundka (446), Burari Crossing (445), and Anand Vihar (443). Notably, air quality in Dwarka-Sector 8 (393) and Najafgarh (372) hovered just below the ‘severe' threshold.

On Sunday, PM2.5 levels (Particulate Matter), a major pollutant, remained dangerously high, with 37 out of 39 monitoring stations recording ‘severe plus' air quality.

PM 2.5 particles, small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs, pose severe health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Amid worsening pollution, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV measures have been enforced across the National Capital Region (NCR) since December 16.

These emergency steps aim to curb pollution but have had limited immediate impact.

The Supreme Court recently directed Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to impose firecracker bans akin to Delhi's and emphasised stringent implementation of GRAP and the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. The apex court also ordered NCR states to deploy teams at Delhi's entry points to monitor compliance with GRAP IV measures.

Residents are increasingly reporting health issues related to the pollution, including respiratory problems and eye irritation. The combination of thick fog, and toxic air has made life challenging for people of Delhi, with many calling for stronger and more effective measures to combat the crisis.

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UPPSC Answer Key 2024 To Be Released Soon, Check Details 23 Dec 2024, 2:17 am

UPPSC Answer Key 2024: The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) will soon release the UPPSC Answer Key 2024. Candidates who appeared in the exam will be able to download the UPPSC Answer Key by visiting the official website, uppsc.up.nic.in, once it is released. 

UPPSC Answer Key 2024: Steps To Check
 
Step 1. Go to the official website of the UPPSC
Step 2. On the home page, click on the "Answer Key 2024" link  
Step 3. You will be redirected to a new page 
Step 4. Check the answer key and download it  
Step 5. Take a hard copy for future reference 

The UPPSC 2024 preliminary exam was held on December 22. The exam was conducted in two shifts: the first from 9.30am to 11.30am, and the second from 2.30pm to 4.30pm, across 75 districts of the state.

The UPPSC preliminary exam consists of two papers: General Studies Paper 1 and the UPPSC CSAT (Paper 2). The main exam, however, is more challenging, consisting of eight papers, including General Hindi, General English, and General Studies.

The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) conducts a state-level examination to recruit candidates for various positions in the Uttar Pradesh state government. The exam is divided into three stages: the preliminary exam, the main exam, and the interview.

The exams were held for over 5,00,000 candidates in multiple shifts to maintain integrity and quality. The normalisation process is conducted to evaluate the results when exams are held across multiple days or shifts for a single advertisement.  
 

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1 Dead As Brazil Bridge Collapses, Truck Carrying Acid Falls Into River 23 Dec 2024, 1:41 am

A bridge connecting two states in Brazil's northern and northeastern regions collapsed on Sunday as vehicles were crossing, killing at least one person and spilling sulfuric acid into the Tocantins River.

The National Department of Transport Infrastructure said the central span of the 533-meter (0.3-mile) bridge, linking the cities of Estreito in Maranhao state and Aguiarnopolis in Tocantins state, gave way in the afternoon. A tanker truck carrying the acid plunged into the water, officials said.

According to the fire department, one person has been confirmed dead and another was rescued alive.

Aguiarnopolis city councilman Elias Junior was recording a video asking authorities to fix problems with the bridge, which he said could no longer handle the heavy trucks passing over it. As he pointed to a large crack on the shoulder of the bridge, the structure collapsed in front of him, causing him to run back. Reuters could not immediately independently verify the video. Junior did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Preliminary estimates indicate at least 11 people were involved in the accident with two trucks, a car, and a motorcycle falling into the river, which is more than 50 meters (164 feet) deep.

By early evening, rescue divers halted their efforts after identifying that one submerged tanker was leaking sulfuric acid, said the fire department from Tocantins.

The Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveira Bridge, inaugurated in 1960, was built with reinforced concrete and is part of the BR-226 highway, connecting the federal capital Brasilia to Belem, a northern city set to host the United Nations Climate Change Conference next year.

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Light rain in parts of Delhi-NCR, air quality remains 'severe' 23 Dec 2024, 1:36 am

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Donald Trump Vows To "Stop Transgender Lunacy" On Day One In Office 23 Dec 2024, 1:27 am

US President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday pledged to "stop the transgender lunacy" on day one of his presidency, as Republicans -- set to control both chambers of Congress and the White House -- continue their push against LGBTQ rights.

"I will sign executive orders to end child sexual mutilation, get transgender out of the military and out of our elementary schools and middle schools and high schools," the president-elect said at an event for young conservatives in Phoenix, Arizona.

He also vowed to "keep men out of women's sports," adding that "it will be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders, male and female."

Speaking to the AmericaFest conference in a border state he easily carried in the November election, Trump further promised immediate measures against "migrant crime," vowed to designate drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, and doubled down on his talk of restoring US control of the Panama Canal.

Transgender issues have roiled US politics in recent years, as Democratic- and Republican-controlled states have moved in opposite directions on policy such as medical treatment and what books on the topic are allowed in public or school libraries.

Last week, when the US Congress approved its annual defense budget, it included a provision to block funding of some gender-affirming care for the transgender children of service members.

In his speech Sunday, which amounted to something of a victory lap, Trump made expansive promises for his second term -- and drew a dark picture of the four years preceding it, under President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, the latter of whom he defeated in the 2024 election.

"On January 20, the United States will turn the page forever on four long, horrible years of failure, incompetence, national decline, and we will inaugurate a new era of peace, prosperity and national greatness," Trump said, referring to his swearing-in.

"I will end the war in Ukraine. I will stop the chaos in the Middle East, and I will prevent, I promise, World War III."

He added: "The golden age of America is upon us."

The president-elect has yet to explain publicly how he plans to bring a quick end to the war in Ukraine, or to bring peace to the Middle East.

But in the sort of bellicose language he sometimes used even against US allies in the past, Trump said Sunday that Panamanian authorities "haven't treated us fairly" in their operation of the Panama Canal. 

He had said earlier that fees for use of the canal -- construction of which was begun by France and completed by the United States -- are "ridiculous."

And he added Sunday that if the principles behind the 1970s treaty that gave Panama full control of the canal are not followed, "then we will demand" that it be returned to the United States "in full, quickly and without question."

Thousands of ships transit the key Central American waterway every year, making it critical to US and international commerce. 

The president-elect, who regularly blames migrants from Latin America for America's drug problems, renewed his vow to immediately begin "the largest deportation operation in American history" upon taking office, and later went further, saying he would "immediately designate the (drug) cartels as foreign terrorist organizations."

"This criminal network operating on American soil will be dismantled, deported and destroyed," Trump said.

During his first term in 2019, after the killing in Mexico of nine American citizens from a Mormon community, Trump vowed to apply the terrorist designation to Mexican cartels. 

But he relented following a plea from then-Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

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Can Elon Musk Become US President? Donald Trump Says... 23 Dec 2024, 1:07 am

Could Elon Musk, who holds major sway in the incoming Trump administration, one day become president? On Sunday, Donald Trump answered with a resounding no, pointing to US rules about being born in the country.

"He's not gonna be president, that I can tell you," Trump told a Republican conference in Phoenix, Arizona. 

"You know why he can't be? He wasn't born in this country," Trump said of the Tesla and SpaceX boss, who was born in South Africa.

The US Constitution requires that a president be a natural-born US citizen.

Trump was responding to criticism, particularly from the Democratic camp, portraying the tech billionaire and world's richest person as "President Musk" for the outsized role he is playing in the incoming administration.

As per ceding the presidency to Musk, Trump also assured the crowd: "No, no that's not happening."

The influence of Musk, who will serve as Trump's "efficiency czar," has become a focus point for Democratic attacks, with questions raised over how an unelected citizen can wield so much power.

And there is even growing anger among Republicans after Musk trashed a government funding proposal this week in a blizzard of posts -- many of them wildly inaccurate -- to his more than 200 million followers on his social media platform X.

Alongside Trump, Musk ultimately helped pressure Republicans to renege on a funding bill they had painstakingly agreed upon with Democrats, pushing the United States to the brink of budgetary paralysis that would have resulted in a government shutdown just days before Christmas.

Congress ultimately reached an agreement overnight Friday to Saturday, avoiding massive halts to government services.

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Tea For Rs 10 At Kolkata Airport Soon, Raghav Chadha Says "Change Brewing" 23 Dec 2024, 12:52 am

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha said his efforts have led to lowering of food and water prices at airports after the government launched affordable Udaan Yatri Cafe. Mr Chadha had in parliament raised the issue of overpriced food and beverages at airports, prompting the government to launch the Udaan Yatri Cafe, Mr Chadha said in a statement.

The first Udaan Yatri Cafe has been launched at Kolkata airport, offering water, tea, and snacks at reasonable prices.

Mr Chadha reminded the government of its promise to make air travel affordable, highlighting that rising costs have made it challenging for the common people to fly.

"Glad to see the change brewing! After I highlighted the issue of food affordability at airports during this Winter Session of Parliament, tea prices at Kolkata Airport have been reduced. This is a win for us citizens, and I take pride in being the catalyst for this change. Hope more airports will follow this example and price food items more reasonably. Which issues should I raise in the next session?" the AAP MP said in a post on X.

Glad to see the change brewing! After I highlighted the issue of food affordability at airports during this Winter Session of Parliament, tea prices at Kolkata Airport have been reduced. This is a win for us citizens, and I take pride in being the catalyst for this change. Hope... https://t.co/8k7RnKBvzU pic.twitter.com/hi3iMng46J

— Raghav Chadha (@raghav_chadha) December 22, 2024

The Civil Aviation Ministry announced the launch of 'Udaan Yatri Cafe' at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport as a pilot project. If successful, it will be extended to other airports managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

In his parliamentary speech, Mr Chadha highlighted the plight of passengers forced to pay inflated prices for food and beverages at airports.

"A water bottle costs Rs 100, and tea is priced at Rs 200-250. Can't the government establish affordable canteens at airports?" he said.

He also criticised the poor management of airports, which he likened to bus stands due to long queues, overcrowding, and disorganisation.

Mr Chadha's speech received widespread praise on social media, with many hailing it as a voice for the common man, the AAP said.

Konchok Stanzin, a counselor from Ladakh's Chushul, supported Mr Chadha's statement, pointing out challenges faced by Ladakhis due to expensive air travel, especially during winter when they are cut off from the rest of the country.

While discussing the Indian Aviation Bill 2024, Mr Chadha said, "The government promised that people in slippers would fly, but now even those wearing Bata shoes can't afford air travel."

He noted a sharp rise in airfares over the past year, burdening the common people. For instance, Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Patna routes now cost Rs 10,000 to Rs 14,500.

‘Woke is bull****’: Trump takes aim at woke culture, Musk reacts - Watch 23 Dec 2024, 12:43 am

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Not Taj Mahal Replica, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Says "We Gift These..." 23 Dec 2024, 12:28 am

Participating in Rudrabhishek programme in Sehore district, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said, now Indians don't need to have to give the Taj Mahal (replica) to foreign guests anymore instead we gift Geeta, Ramayan, Mahabharat, and the holy texts of Sanatan dharma.

Mr Yadav was speaking at Jarrapur village under Budhni Tehsil of the district when he said, "India has gained respect on international level and it feels good that we don't have to give the Taj Mahal (replica) to foreign guests anymore, we gift them the Geeta, Ramayan, Mahabharat, the holy texts of Sanatan dharma..."

Mr Yadav's statement came while he was assuring saints of providing permanent space in Ujjain for the construction of Dharamshala, halls for religious gatherings and other infrastructure for religious purposes.

Mr Yadav also said that the government is going to give "legal permission" for the same.

Earlier on Saturday, CM also performed the bhoomi pujan of an IT Park worth Rs46 crores in Ujjain, underlining the state government's commitment to fostering industrial and technological growth.

Sharing the development on social media X (formerly known as X), the Chief Minister said, "Our endeavour is to pave the way for industrial development by creating favourable conditions for investment in Madhya Pradesh, along with promoting technology and innovation through entrepreneurship, thereby increasing employment opportunities in the field of technology."

Meanwhile, addressing the Yuva Udyami Manch Summit 2024, CM highlighted his government's achievements in promoting investment in the state.

"Ever since our government was formed, we have made efforts to encourage investments by making sure that our investor summits are available even at the smallest level... In metros, we organised roadshows to promote the businesses of Madhya Pradesh," he said.

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Public Sector Hydropower Company Hiring For 118 Vacancies, Salary Up To Rs 1.80 Lakh 22 Dec 2024, 6:44 pm

NHPC Limited, a public-sector hydropower company, is currently accepting applications for positions including Trainee Officer (HR), Trainee Officer (PR), Trainee Officer (Law), and Senior Medical Officer, various positions. The recruitment drive aims to fill 118 vacancies. The application period commenced on December 9 with a deadline set for December 30.

Eligibility Criteria:

Trainee Officer (HR):

• Post Graduate Degree/Diploma in HR-related fields with at least 60% marks.
• Valid UGC NET (Dec 2023/Jun 2024) score required.

Trainee Officer (PR):

• Post Graduate Degree/Diploma in Communication, Journalism, or Public Relations with at least 60% marks.
• Valid UGC NET (Dec 2023/Jun 2024) score required.

Trainee Officer (Law):

• LLB (3 years) or 5-year integrated law degree with at least 60% marks.
• Valid CLAT (PG) 2024 score required.

Senior Medical Officer (SMO):

MBBS degree with valid registration and at least two years of post-internship experience.

Age Limit:

Trainee Officers: Maximum age of 30 years as of December 30, 2024.

Senior Medical Officer: Maximum age of 35 years.

Age relaxations apply according to government rules for SC/ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), PwBD, and Ex-servicemen.

Registration Fee:

• General/EWS/OBC (NCL): Rs 600 + applicable taxes (Rs 708).
• SC/ST/PwBD/Women/Ex-Servicemen: No fee.

Selection Process:

The selection for trainee officers includes academic qualification, and UGC NET/CLAT scores, followed by a Group Discussion and Personal Interview, assessing communication, leadership, and analytical skills.

For senior medical officers, the selection is based on MBBS exam scores and performance in the personal interview. The final selection will weigh 75% on the qualifying exam scores and 25% on interview performance.

NHPC Limited Recruitment 2024: Steps To Apply

• Visit the NHPC official website, nhpcindia.com 
• Navigate to the "Career" section.
• Register and fill in the online application form.
• Upload necessary documents, including valid scores (UGC NET/CLAT), certificates, and photographs.
• Pay the fee, if applicable, and apply.

For further details, visit the official NHPC recruitment page.

Pay Scale and Age limit

Trainee Officer (HR) / (E2) /

Rs 50,000-3%- Rs 1,60,000 (IDA)

30 Years

Trainee Officer (PR) / (E-2) /Rs 50,000-3%- Rs 1.60 lakh

30 Years

Trainee Officer (LAW) / (E2) /

Rs 50,000 - 3% - Rs 1,60,000 (IDA)

30 Years

Sr Medical Officer / E3) /

Rs 60,000-3%-1,80,000 (IDA)

35 Years

Placement:

Candidates will be assigned to projects, power stations, offices, joint ventures and subsidiary companies of NHPC, located across India or internationally.

Check detailed notification here

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Delhi's Air Quality Turns 'Severe' Despite GRAP-4 Restrictions 22 Dec 2024, 6:25 pm

Delhi's air quality deteriorated on Sunday with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching the 'severe' category at 409 at 4 pm, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed.

On Saturday, the AQI was recorded at 370, placing it in the 'very poor' category.

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

The capital on Sunday experienced dangerously high levels of PM2.5, the primary pollutant, with 37 out of 39 monitoring stations reporting air quality in the 'severe plus' category.

Some areas recorded AQI levels as high as 474.

PM2.5 particles, which are 2.5 micrometres or smaller in diameter, can penetrate deep into the lungs, posing significant health risks.

Delhi remains under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes stringent anti-pollution measures such as a complete ban on construction activities and restrictions on non-essential polluting trucks entering the city.

Meanwhile, the weather office has forecast cloudy sky with light rain on Monday, with temperatures expected to range from a high of 20 degrees Celcius to a low of 7 degrees Celcius.

"Cinema, Cuisine, Tourism": In Kuwait, PM Modi Reflects On India's 'Soft Power' 22 Dec 2024, 6:15 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored India's historical and cultural ties with the Gulf region, and the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf nation. Highlighting India's soft power, he emphasised its civilisational ethos, cultural influence through cinema and cuisine, and its tourism sector.

In an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, PM Modi also reaffirmed India's role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, food and energy security and advocating for the Global South.

PM Modi was on a two-day visit to the Gulf nation of Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait. This was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years.

Responding to a question about how India's soft power can influence its global outreach, PM Modi said India's civilisational ethos and heritage form the foundation of its soft power, KUNA reported. PM Modi further asserted that India's soft power has grown significantly alongside its expanding global presence, particularly over the last decade.

"In Kuwait and the Gulf, Indian movies stand out as a prime example of this cultural connection. We have seen that people in Kuwait have a special liking for Indian cinema. I am told that there are three weekly shows on Kuwait Television on Indian movies and actors," he said.

"Similarly, we share several attributes in our cuisine and culinary traditions. Centuries of people-to-people contact have also resulted in linguistic similarities and shared vocabulary. India's diversity and emphasis on peace, tolerance and coexistence resonate with the values of Kuwait's multicultural society. Recently, a Kuwaiti scholar translated Ramayana and Mahabharata in Arabic," PM Modi added.

Speaking about the tourism sector, PM Modi said, "India's tourism sector offers another dimension of soft power. With 43 UNESCO World Heritage sites, coupled with ongoing efforts to enhance visitor facilities, India provides a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty."

"For a society like Kuwait, with which India shares a rich historical connection, India's tourism opportunities are an invitation to explore and deepen the shared cultural ties," he added.

He added that Indians in Kuwait have contributed immensely to the development of the country as doctors, businessmen, construction workers, engineers, nurses and other professionals.

"As we elevate the level of our relationship with Kuwait to a strategic partnership, I believe the role of the Indian community will only grow in importance. I am confident that Kuwaiti authorities recognise the immense contributions of this vibrant community and will continue to provide encouragement and support," PM Modi added.

Asked about Kuwaiti-Indian energy relations, PM Modi said that energy is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership, estimating that last year, trade exchange crossed USD 10 billion, which reflects the deep trust and mutual benefit underpinning this partnership, KUNA reported.

"Both nations have consistently ranked among the top 10 trading partners in the energy sector. Indian companies actively engage in importing crude oil, LPG, and petroleum products from Kuwait while also exporting petroleum products to Kuwait. Currently, Kuwait stands as India's 6th largest crude supplier and 4th largest LPG supplier," PM Modi said.

He added, "In addition to conventional hydrocarbon trade, there exist a plethora of new areas for cooperation, including an entire value chain of oil and gas, as well as joint efforts in low-carbon solutions such as green hydrogen, biofuels, and carbon capture technologies."

On being asked about India's global role as a voice of the Global South, PM Modi stated, "India is privileged to speak for the Global South. We share much in common with our fellow developing countries - from history to the aspirations of our people. We therefore not only understand but feel their concerns. The ongoing conflicts and the resultant challenges of food, fuel and fertiliser have hit the global south hard. They are also disproportionately bearing the brunt of climate change

He hailed his country as a reliable development partner for the global south, a first responder in times of crises for them and for others, a leader on climate action and a champion of inclusive growth and development."

He added, "We gave voice to the concerns of developing countries when we assumed the Presidency of the G20. We hosted three Voice of the Global South Summits to amplify and act on the pressing needs of people. We were honoured that the African Union became a permanent member of the G20 at the New Delhi Summit. This was a historic achievement for the Global South, and a proud moment for us."

Regarding regional and global conflicts, involving Gaza and Ukraine, PM Modi emphasised that solutions cannot be found on the battlefield, stressing the importance of sincere and practical engagement between stakeholders for bridging differences and achieving negotiated settlements, KUNA reported.

He highlighted that India recently provided 70 tons of humanitarian aid and nearly 65 tons of medicines to Gaza, along with contributing USD 10 million to UNRWA over the past two years.

PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to a negotiated two-state solution aimed at establishing a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state with secure and recognised borders.

On environmental sustainability initiatives, PM Modi said, "We are facing several challenges, but none more pressing than climate change. Our planet is under stress. We need urgent collective action and one that involves the entire global community. No one can do it alone. We must come together. India wants to lead and bring all countries together to foster pro-planet action. This is the idea behind our championing various green global initiatives."

He also regarded the India-led green initiatives as platforms for all nations to collectively address climate change, promote environmental sustainability, build disaster-resilient infrastructure, and drive the global transition towards clean energy, KUNA reported.

PM Modi also attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup in Kuwait on Saturday as the 'Guest of Honour' of Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

Emir of Kuwait and Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of Kuwait received PM Modi at Bayan Palace on Sunday and was accorded a ceremonial welcome.

PM Modi expressed his deep appreciation to Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for conferring on him the highest award of the State of Kuwait 'The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer.' The leaders exchanged views on bilateral, global, regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest.

The two sides also recalled the centuries-old historical ties rooted in shared history and cultural affinities. They noted with satisfaction the regular interactions at various levels which have helped in generating and sustaining the momentum in the multifaceted bilateral cooperation. Both sides emphasised sustaining the recent momentum in high-level exchanges through regular bilateral exchanges at Ministerial and senior-official levels.

"Cinema, Cuisine, Tourism": In Kuwait, PM Reflects On India's 'Soft Power' 22 Dec 2024, 6:15 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored India's historical and cultural ties with the Gulf region, and the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf nation. Highlighting India's soft power, he emphasised its civilisational ethos, cultural influence through cinema and cuisine, and its tourism sector.

In an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, PM Modi also reaffirmed India's role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, food and energy security and advocating for the Global South.

PM Modi was on a two-day visit to the Gulf nation of Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait. This was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years.

Responding to a question about how India's soft power can influence its global outreach, PM Modi said India's civilisational ethos and heritage form the foundation of its soft power, KUNA reported. PM Modi further asserted that India's soft power has grown significantly alongside its expanding global presence, particularly over the last decade.

"In Kuwait and the Gulf, Indian movies stand out as a prime example of this cultural connection. We have seen that people in Kuwait have a special liking for Indian cinema. I am told that there are three weekly shows on Kuwait Television on Indian movies and actors," he said.

"Similarly, we share several attributes in our cuisine and culinary traditions. Centuries of people-to-people contact have also resulted in linguistic similarities and shared vocabulary. India's diversity and emphasis on peace, tolerance and coexistence resonate with the values of Kuwait's multicultural society. Recently, a Kuwaiti scholar translated Ramayana and Mahabharata in Arabic," PM Modi added.

Speaking about the tourism sector, PM Modi said, "India's tourism sector offers another dimension of soft power. With 43 UNESCO World Heritage sites, coupled with ongoing efforts to enhance visitor facilities, India provides a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty."

"For a society like Kuwait, with which India shares a rich historical connection, India's tourism opportunities are an invitation to explore and deepen the shared cultural ties," he added.

He added that Indians in Kuwait have contributed immensely to the development of the country as doctors, businessmen, construction workers, engineers, nurses and other professionals.

"As we elevate the level of our relationship with Kuwait to a strategic partnership, I believe the role of the Indian community will only grow in importance. I am confident that Kuwaiti authorities recognise the immense contributions of this vibrant community and will continue to provide encouragement and support," PM Modi added.

Asked about Kuwaiti-Indian energy relations, PM Modi said that energy is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership, estimating that last year, trade exchange crossed USD 10 billion, which reflects the deep trust and mutual benefit underpinning this partnership, KUNA reported.

"Both nations have consistently ranked among the top 10 trading partners in the energy sector. Indian companies actively engage in importing crude oil, LPG, and petroleum products from Kuwait while also exporting petroleum products to Kuwait. Currently, Kuwait stands as India's 6th largest crude supplier and 4th largest LPG supplier," PM Modi said.

He added, "In addition to conventional hydrocarbon trade, there exist a plethora of new areas for cooperation, including an entire value chain of oil and gas, as well as joint efforts in low-carbon solutions such as green hydrogen, biofuels, and carbon capture technologies."

On being asked about India's global role as a voice of the Global South, PM Modi stated, "India is privileged to speak for the Global South. We share much in common with our fellow developing countries - from history to the aspirations of our people. We therefore not only understand but feel their concerns. The ongoing conflicts and the resultant challenges of food, fuel and fertiliser have hit the global south hard. They are also disproportionately bearing the brunt of climate change

He hailed his country as a reliable development partner for the global south, a first responder in times of crises for them and for others, a leader on climate action and a champion of inclusive growth and development."

He added, "We gave voice to the concerns of developing countries when we assumed the Presidency of the G20. We hosted three Voice of the Global South Summits to amplify and act on the pressing needs of people. We were honoured that the African Union became a permanent member of the G20 at the New Delhi Summit. This was a historic achievement for the Global South, and a proud moment for us."

Regarding regional and global conflicts, involving Gaza and Ukraine, PM Modi emphasised that solutions cannot be found on the battlefield, stressing the importance of sincere and practical engagement between stakeholders for bridging differences and achieving negotiated settlements, KUNA reported.

He highlighted that India recently provided 70 tons of humanitarian aid and nearly 65 tons of medicines to Gaza, along with contributing USD 10 million to UNRWA over the past two years.

PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to a negotiated two-state solution aimed at establishing a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state with secure and recognised borders.

On environmental sustainability initiatives, PM Modi said, "We are facing several challenges, but none more pressing than climate change. Our planet is under stress. We need urgent collective action and one that involves the entire global community. No one can do it alone. We must come together. India wants to lead and bring all countries together to foster pro-planet action. This is the idea behind our championing various green global initiatives."

He also regarded the India-led green initiatives as platforms for all nations to collectively address climate change, promote environmental sustainability, build disaster-resilient infrastructure, and drive the global transition towards clean energy, KUNA reported.

PM Modi also attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup in Kuwait on Saturday as the 'Guest of Honour' of Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

Emir of Kuwait and Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of Kuwait received PM Modi at Bayan Palace on Sunday and was accorded a ceremonial welcome.

PM Modi expressed his deep appreciation to Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for conferring on him the highest award of the State of Kuwait 'The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer.' The leaders exchanged views on bilateral, global, regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest.

The two sides also recalled the centuries-old historical ties rooted in shared history and cultural affinities. They noted with satisfaction the regular interactions at various levels which have helped in generating and sustaining the momentum in the multifaceted bilateral cooperation. Both sides emphasised sustaining the recent momentum in high-level exchanges through regular bilateral exchanges at Ministerial and senior-official levels.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Video: Cheetah released into forest strays into Madhya Pradesh residential area 22 Dec 2024, 6:01 pm

Video: Cheetah released into forest strays into Madhya Pradesh residential area 22 Dec 2024, 6:01 pm

Louisiana often holds inmates past their release date, DOJ lawsuit claims 22 Dec 2024, 6:00 pm

PM Modi Meets Yoga Practitioner, Other Influencers In Kuwait 22 Dec 2024, 5:59 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday met Shaikha AJ Al-Sabah, an avid yoga practitioner and founder of the first licensed yoga studio 'Daratma' in Kuwait, and other influencers from the Gulf country.

PM Modi, who arrived here on Saturday on a two-day trip - the first to this Gulf nation by an Indian prime minister in 43 years, also met Fahad Ghazi Alabduljaleel, the President of Kuwait Heritage Society, and appreciated his work in preserving the rare manuscripts and artefacts.

"Met HH Shaikha AJ Al-Sabah in Kuwait. She has distinguished herself for her passion towards Yoga and fitness. She has established her own Yoga and wellness studio, which is quite popular in Kuwait. We talked about ways to make Yoga more popular among the youth," PM Modi posted on X.

They discussed ways to further popularise yoga, especially among the youth, the prime minister's office said.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that Shaikha A J Al-Sabah is an avid yoga practitioner and the founder of the first licensed yoga studio 'Daratma' in Kuwait.

"They exchanged views on promoting healthy lifestyle through meditation and yoga & ways to deepen the Indian-Kuwait people to people connect," he said in a post on X.

Prime Minister Modi met with Alabduljaleel, President of the Kuwait Heritage Society, and appreciated his work in preserving the rare manuscripts and artefacts related to Kuwait and India and in strengthening India-Kuwait historical connections.

"In Kuwait, met Mr. Fahad Ghazi Alabduljaleel, who is respected for his passion towards culture and history. He also has an India connection, with his forefathers having linkages with Surat, Mumbai and Kozhikode," PM Modi said in another post on X.

Their discussions delved into the rich historical ties between India and Kuwait, the prime minister's office said.

Kuwait also conferred its highest honour - 'The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer' - on Prime Minister Modi for his role in strengthening the good relations between the two countries.

India, Kuwait resolve to enhance counter-terror cooperation during PM's visit 22 Dec 2024, 5:52 pm

Putin Meets Slovak Prime Minister at Kremlin: Russian Television 22 Dec 2024, 5:45 pm

Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks at the Kremlin on Sunday with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, one of the few European leaders he has stayed friendly with since the eruption of hostilities with Ukraine, according to Russian television.

"Putin is currently holding talks in the Kremlin with Slovak Prime Minister Fico," Russian TV journalist Pavel Zarubin, a Kremlin insider, posted on his Telegram channel, along with a short video showing the two leaders.

The visit by Fico, whose country is both a NATO and European Union member, had not been previously announced.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov told Zarubin however that it had been arranged "a few days ago".

Peskov did not give details of the talks but said it could be "presumed" that supplies of Russian gas would be discussed.

Ukraine announced this year that it would not renew a contract allowing the transit of Russian gas through its territory that runs out on December 31.

Slovakia and Hungary, which rely on Russian gas, have raised concerns about the prospect of losing supplies.

Fico ended military aid to Ukraine when he became prime minister again in October 2023, and like Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban has called for peace talks.

Fico announced in November that he would go to Moscow in May for ceremonies to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Isro to study how crops grow in space on PSLV-C60 mission 22 Dec 2024, 5:31 pm

Couple Tied To Pole, Thrashed By Mob In Bihar 22 Dec 2024, 5:26 pm

A man and a woman were seen tied to a pole and thrashed by a crowd in a viral video. The police have confirmed the incident as from Bihar's Muzaffarpur district.

The two were in a relationship, the police said, adding the locals had objected to them being together.

In the video, the woman was heard screaming, her hands tied to the pole with a rope. The man is tied to the pole with his back against her.

Reports said the woman is from Samastipur district, and the man from Muzaffarpur.

The police said they started investigating soon after the video went viral.

"... It appears that the man is a resident of Sakra area of Muzaffarpur. The police station concerned has been directed to investigate the incident," Muzaffarpur Superintendent of Police (Rural) Vidya Sagar told reporters.

"I came to know about the incident after some people sent the video on WhatsApp," he said.

"No One Listens": Delhi Resident's Video On Cows, Garbage On Road 22 Dec 2024, 5:24 pm

Nearly a year after a man was attacked by a bull and killed in south Delhi's Kalkaji Extension, residents have raised concerns over a sudden rise in the number of stray cattle on the road outside their homes again.

In February, a city resident Subhash Kumar Jha was attacked by the bull outside a school in the area and killed. He went to the school to pick up his son when the incident, which was seen on CCTV camera, happened.

A new video has emerged from the same area, showing garbage strewn outside the walls of residential colonies and a school, with over a dozen cows sitting on them.

"Look at these flats. Residents have worked hard to keep them clean," a local resident said in a video which he posted on X. He pans the camera. "However, this is the condition on the other side of the wall," he said, as the garbage and cattle appear in view.

"These cattle will suddenly get up and come on the road, leading to accidents, which happen everyday. No one cares; no one listens. We have tried knocking at every door, from police to politicians to local councillors," the man said.

Residents said they are tired of waiting for the place to be cleaned by the authorities, adding they have been using their own money and resources to clean as much as possible.

The visuals show a long pile of garbage strewn right at the wall of Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar School in south Delhi's Kalkaji Extension.

Residents' welfare association general secretary Harjinder Singh Harry said the least the leaders can do is to clean up the area ahead of the Delhi assembly election scheduled early next year.

Other residents of nearby apartments said some action happens but very rarely, and the situation reverts to what it was i.e. garbage and cattle on the road in a couple of days after some mild enforcement action.

@AtishiAAP @MCDdelhi @dtptraffic @LtGovDelhi @OberoiShelly

Please help residents of Kalkaji extension pic.twitter.com/0uEsBMhvbL

— BETTER WORLD (@WorldBette58573) December 22, 2024

"Are we condemned to live surrounded by this filth forever? Why can't residents of this area get basic cleanliness? Alaknanda and Chittaranjan Park are just a kilometre away, and those places are clean. Maybe influential people live there. Just because we don't say anything doesn't mean we will not exercise the power of our votes," a resident said.

Garbage being dumped near the gate of Pocket A3 also led to tensions between the residents and outsiders. The residents say they are tired of cleaning the area near the gate repeatedly, while outsiders continue to treat it as a garbage dump. A large commercial unit right across the gate keeps bringing in trucks, blocking the residents' vehicles every day.

Tata Institute Of Fundamental Research Invites Applications For Multiple Positions, Check Details 22 Dec 2024, 5:21 pm

Tata Institute Of Fundamental Research Recruitment 2024: The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), a premier research institute in India, is inviting applications for various positions, including Engineers, Scientific Officers, Technical Assistants, Administrative Officers, and more. The recruitment drive offers an excellent opportunity to work in science, technology, and innovation. It aims to fill 26 positions. Interested and eligible candidates can submit their applications by visiting the official website. 

Key Details:

Positions Available:

• Engineer (C) (Mechanical): 1- Pay Level 10, Rs 1,13,970
• Engineer (C) (Civil): Pay Level 10, Rs 1,13,970
• Scientific Officer (C): Pay Level 10, Rs 1,13,970
• Administrative Officer (C) (Legal): Pay Level 10, Rs 1,13,970
• Technical Assistant (B) (Electrical): Pay Level 6, Rs 70,290
• Tradesman (B)- (Turner, Electrician, etc): Pay Level 3, Rs 45,219
• Clerk
• Work Assistant (Technical)

Eligibility:

• Reservations are available for SC, ST, OBC, PWBD, and EWS candidates as per government norms.
• Age relaxations apply for eligible candidates based on Government of India rules.
• Applicants must attach relevant documents for age relaxation claims where applicable.

Important Note:

• SC/ST/OBC/PWBD/EWS candidates may apply for unreserved positions but must meet the age and eligibility criteria for such posts.
• Any updates or corrigenda will be published exclusively on the official website.

For detailed information on qualifications, experience, and the application process, visit the TIFR Recruitment Page.

Is tea really healthy? This is what US FDA says 22 Dec 2024, 5:16 pm

In PM's Kuwait Visit, Top Honour, Bilateral Meet, Delegation-Level Talks 22 Dec 2024, 5:04 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his meeting with Kuwaiti counterpart, Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, held discussions regarding deepening of economic cooperation between the two nations, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Sunday.

MEA Secretary, CPV and OIA, Arun Kumar Chatterjee in a press briefing, elaborated on the details of Prime Minister's visit to Kuwait, the first by an Indian PM to the Gulf nation in 43 years.

"Narendra Modi arrived in Kuwait on the morning of December 21, that is yesterday. This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years. At the airport, the Prime Minister was received by at the airport, PM Modi was received by Fahad Yusuf Al-Sabah, the first Deputy PM, Minister of Defence, and Minister of Interior of Kuwait and also the Minister of Foreign Minister and other senior officials. Upon his arrival at the hotel, he was warmly welcomed by the Indian diaspora in Kuwait and their numbers are around 200," Mr Chatterjee said.

Mr Chatterjee said that PM Modi was awarded 'The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer' by Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah on Sunday.

"Today morning, Prime Minister was given a ceremonial welcome at the Bayan Palace and a Guard of honor accorded to him. He called on the Amir of Kuwait thereafter, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. This was the first meeting between the two leaders," he said.

The Amir and PM Modi recalled strong historical ties between India and Kuwait during their bilateral meeting. PM Modi also congratulated the Amir for smoothly conducting the GCC Summit earlier this month.

"They recalled the strong historical and friendly ties between India and Kuwait and reaffirmed their full commitment to further expanding and deepening the bilateral cooperation. In this context, they agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. Prime Minister thanked His Highness, the Amir for ensuring the well-being of over 1 million strong Indian Community in Kuwait. His Highness the Amir also expressed appreciation for the contribution of the large and vibrant Indian Community in Kuwait's development. Prime minister also congratulated His Highness the Amir for successful holding of the GCC Summit earlier this month," he said.

PM Modi said he accepted the Kuwaiti Highest Award on the behalf of all Indians.

"His Highness the Amir conferred the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer on the Prime Minister of India. This is the highest Award of the state of Kuwait. The Honorable Prime Minister thanked the Amir for this gesture and conveyed that he was accepting this award on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians. Prime Minister today met His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, the Crown Prince of the state of Kuwait. Prime Minister had earlier met the Crown Prince on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly session in September this year. The leaders acknowledged that the bilateral relations were progressing well and welcomed their elevation to a strategic partnership. The Prime Minister also expressed confidence that the India-GCC relations will be further strengthened under the presidency of Kuwait," he said.

PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Kuwaiti PM, during which the two discussed ways to strengthen India-Kuwait's strategic partnership.

"Prime Minister Modi held delegation-level talks with His Highness Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, the Prime Minister of the state of Kuwait. The two leaders discussed a road map to strengthen the strategic partnership in areas including political, trade, investments, energy, defense, security, health, education technology, cultural, and people-to people ties. They emphasized on deepening the economic cooperation between the two countries. They welcomed the recent signing of the joint commission for cooperation under which new joint working groups in areas of trade, investment, education, technology, agriculture, security and culture have been set up in addition to the existing joint working groups on health manpower and hydrocarbons. The Prime Minister also attended a banquet lunch hosted in his honor by His Highness the Crown Prince of Kuwait," he said.

Mr Chatterjee said that PM Modi was the Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup. He also went to a labout camp and met 1,500 Indian nationals who worked there, which showed the importance India attached to its workers abroad.

"Yesterday in the evening the Prime Minister of India was the guest of honor at the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup which is being hosted by Kuwait. He joined His Highness the Amir the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister of Kuwait in this opening ceremony.

"Earlier after arrival the one of the first engagements of the Prime Minister was a visit to a labor camp in Mina Abdullah area of Kuwait which has a Workforce of around 1,500 Indian nationals. The Prime Minister interacted with a cross-section of Indian workers from different states of India and inquired about their well-being. The visit to the labor camp displays the importance attached by the Prime Minister personally and the government of India to the welfare of Indian workers abroad. Thereafter yesterday evening the Prime Minister also addressed a gathering of the Indian Community at a special event titled Hala Modi at the Sheikh Sad Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex in Kuwait City. Around 4,500 Indian Nationals representing a cross-section of the Indian Community in Kuwait attended the event. The Prime Minister was warmly welcomed by the community once again and with full enthusiasm they all participated in the event yesterday," he said.

Prime Minister Modi also lauded the role of Indian diaspora in Kuwait have enriched the relations between two copies.

"Addressing the Gathering the Prime Minister noted that the India Kuwait relationship is profoundly enriched by the Indian Community, which plays a pivotal role in fostering ties between the two Nations," he said.

All About Lauren Sanchez, Amazon Founder Jeff Bezos' Fiancee 22 Dec 2024, 5:03 pm

Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, has denied reports about his impending $600 million wedding to his fiancée Lauren Sanchez next Saturday in Aspen, Colorado. The billionaire was forced to issue a denial after The New York Post reported that the couple, who have been together since 2019, were set to host a lavish wedding with a winter wonderland theme. 

Here are some facts about Lauren Sanchez:

Lauren Sanchez was born on December 19, 1969, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to a second-generation Mexican-American family.

She began her career as a broadcast journalist, working as an entertainment reporter and news anchor. She worked for Fox Sports Net, where she earned an Emmy nomination as anchor for Going Deep and later became an entertainment reporter for Best Damn Sports Show Period. In 1999, she returned to KCOP-TV to anchor UPN News 13, and her team won an Emmy Award.

She gained significant recognition for her role as the co-host of Good Day LA, a morning show she worked on from 2011 to 2017. Ms Sanchez also made appearances in several films, including The Longest Yard, Flight Club, and Ted 2.

In 2016, Lauren Sanchez launched her own company, Black Ops Aviation, which made history as the first female-owned aerial film and production company of its kind. Her passion for aviation was inspired by her childhood dream of becoming a flight attendant, a dream she was initially denied due to her weight. She later earned her helicopter pilot's license. As a skilled helicopter pilot, Ms Sanchez consulted on major film projects, including the 2017 Christopher Nolan film Dunkirk.

Lauren Sanchez was previously married to Hollywood agent Patrick Whitesell, with whom she shares two children, Ella and Evan. She also has a 23-year-old son, Nikko, from her relationship with former NFL player Tony Gonzalez.

Ms Sanchez began dating Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in 2018, and the couple went public with their relationship in July 2019, shortly after Mr Bezos finalised his divorce from his first wife, MacKenzie Scott.

She serves as the vice chair of the Bezos Earth Fund, an organisation founded by her partner Jeff Bezos, which focuses on combating climate change and preserving the environment. 

In September 2024, she authored a bilingual children's book, The Fly Who Flew to Space.

India, Kuwait Sign Pact To Strengthen Cultural, Defence Cooperation 22 Dec 2024, 5:02 pm

India and Kuwait signed four Memorandum of Understandings in the areas of defence, sports and cultural cooperation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Gulf nation, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Sunday.

MEA Secretary CPV and OIA, Arun Kumar Chatterjee during a special briefing today, said the MoUs are expected to deepen the multifaceted bilateral relationship as well as open avenues for newer areas of cooperation.

"Following the delegation level talks today, four bilateral documents were signed during the visit. The first one is a Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation, the second one is a Cultural Exchange program for the years 2025-2029, the third is an executive program on cooperation in the field of sports for the period 2025- 2028. We also had Kuwait joining as a member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA)," he said.

"We are pretty confident that this historic visit of the Prime Minister will open up a new chapter in the relationship between India and Kuwait. Both the sides have been able to identify several important areas of cooperation and the governments will be working towards fulfillment of the plans that have been made during this visit," Mr Chatterjee added.

The MoU on Defence cooperation will institutionalize bilateral cooperation in the area of defence. Key areas of cooperation include training, exchange of personnel and experts, joint exercises, cooperation in defence industry, supply of defence equipment, and collaboration in research and development, among others, a statement by MEA said.

"The MoU between India and Kuwait in the field of Defence cooperation will institutionalise the bilateral cooperation in the areas of defence. The key areas of cooperation would include training, exchange of personnel and experts, joint exercises, cooperation in defence industry, supply of defence equipment and collaboration in research and development," Mr Chatterjee said.

Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) between India and Kuwait for the years 2025-2029 will facilitate greater cultural exchanges in art, music, dance, literature and theatre, cooperation in preservation of cultural heritage, research and development in the area of culture and organizing of festivals, an MEA statement said.

"The cultural exchange program will facilitate greater cultural exchanges in art, music, dance, literature and theater. Cooperation in preservation of cultural heritage, research and development in the areas of culture and organization of festivals," he said.

Executive Programme (EP) for Cooperation in the Field of Sports for the years 2025-2028 will strengthen bilateral cooperation in the field of sports between India and Kuwait by promoting exchange of visits of sports leaders for experience sharing, participation in programs and projects in the field of sports, exchange of expertise in sports medicine, sports management, sports media, sports science, among others, the statement said.

"The executive program for cooperation in the field of sports will strengthen bilateral cooperation in the fields of sports between India and Kuwait by promoting exchange of visits of sports leaders for experience sharing, participation in programs and projects in the field of sports, exchange of expertise in sports medicine, sports management, sports media, sports science among some of the areas that we have identified," Mr Chatterjee said.

Kuwait became a member of the ISA. The International Solar Alliance (ISA) collectively covers the deployment of solar energy and addresses key common challenges to the scaling up of use of solar energy to help member countries develop low-carbon growth trajectories, the MEA statement said.

"Kuwait becoming a member of the International Solar Alliance collectively covers the deployment of solar energy and addresses key common challenges to the scaling up of use of solar energy to help member states develop low carbon growth trajectories," Mr Chatterjee said.

The MEA Secy said that Kuwaiti side acknowledged the important contribution made by Indians there in their economy. Both sides agreed that working groups in the sectors of health and education will identify new sectors of cooperation.

"Regarding the health and education sector, both the sides acknowledged the important contribution that Indians are making in the Kuwaiti economy today and the Kuwaiti side also acknowledged the major contribution that the Indian diaspora is making for the development of the Kuwaiti economy on the issues like health and education. We have separate working groups that have been set up. Both the leaders agreed that these working groups will be meeting frequently and regularly to identify new areas of cooperation. On manpower front also we have a joint working group that exclusively looks at manpower-related issues of Indians in Kuwait and that working group usually looks at and addresses the major issues that are there in this sector but in the general context the leaders discussed about the contribution of the of the Indian community here," Mr Chatterjee said.

He said that intensification of visits from Kuwaiti side may be anticipated as new areas of cooperation have been identified.

"The elevation of a relationship to a strategic partnership means you have taken your bilateral relationship to the next level. Which means you will have greater intensity of cooperation in several areas, plus we have identified new areas. We will see intensification of exchanges and visits in the coming days to materialize whatever has been planned by the leaders of both the countries," he said.

Mr Chatterjee added that health is an important sector that has been identified for cooperation.

"Health and pharmaceuticals is one important area which both the sides have identified for cooperation and that could include investments by the Kuwaiti side in India or expansion of the trade basket to increase pharmaceutical exports also from India. Pharmaceutical would continue to be one of the important sectors of cooperation between our two countries,' he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his two-day official visit to Kuwait, and emplaned for New Delhi on Sunday.

Visiting Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait, PM Modi held multiple engagements and held discussions to further deepen the India-Kuwait ties.

In a special gesture, the PM of Kuwait came to see off PM Modi at the airport as he left for India.

Jeff Bezos Denies Report Of $600 Million Lavish Aspen Wedding: "Whole Thing Is Completely False" 22 Dec 2024, 4:58 pm

Jeff Bezos has categorically denied media reports that his upcoming wedding to fiancee Lauren Sanchez will cost a staggering $600 million. Taking to X, the billionaire founder of Amazon set the record straight, dismissing the rumours as "completely false". The report, picked up by several outlets across the world, alleged that the couple is set to exchange vows on December 28 and spend over half a billion dollars on the extravagant event.

Mr Bezos' reaction was sparked by a post from billionaire investor Bill Ackman, who expressed scepticism about the reported $600 million wedding. "This is not credible. Unless you are buying each of your guests a house, you can't spend this much money," he wrote on X. 

Reacting to Mr Ackman's tweet, the Amazon founder wrote, "Furthermore, this whole thing is completely false — none of this is happening. The adage "don't believe everything you read” is even more true today than it ever has been. Now lies can get around the world before the truth can get its pants on. So be careful out there folks and don't be gullible. Will be interesting to see if all the outlets that "covered" and re-reported on this issue a correction when it comes and goes and doesn't happen."

See the tweet here:

Furthermore, this whole thing is completely false — none of this is happening. The old adage “don't believe everything you read” is even more true today than it ever has been. Now lies can get ALL the way around the world before the truth can get its pants on. So be careful out… https://t.co/wz2SWp6wBZ

— Jeff Bezos (@JeffBezos) December 22, 2024

His fiancee, Lauren Sanchez, also weighed in on the matter, sharing Mr Bezos' post on her Instagram stories and adding a clear rebuttal: "Not true".

Initial reports from the Daily Mail and the New York Post alleged that Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez were planning an extravagant winter wonderland-themed wedding in Aspen, Colorado. According to the reports, the couple had booked Matsuhisa, an upscale sushi restaurant, as the exclusive venue for their celebration. The reports claimed that the luxury restaurant would be reserved from December 26 to 27, hosting around 180 guests including big names like Bill Gates, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Queen Rania of Jordan. 

Notably, Ms Sanchez started dating the Amazon boss in 2018. The couple went public with their relationship on July 14, 2019, after Mr Bezos' divorce from his first wife MacKenzie Scott was finalised. 

Germany To Probe Possible Security Lapses Before Christmas Market Attack 22 Dec 2024, 4:56 pm

The German government pledged Sunday to fully investigate whether there were security lapses before the Christmas market car-ramming attack that killed five people and injured over 200.

Political pressure has built on the question of potential missed warnings about Saudi suspect Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, a 50-year-old psychiatrist who had made online deaths threats and previously had trouble with the law.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and the heads of Germany's domestic and foreign intelligence services are due to answer questions at parliamentary committee hearings on December 30, a senior lawmaker told AFP.

Faeser vowed Sunday that "no stone will be left unturned" in shedding light on what information had been available to security services ahead of last Friday's bloody attack in the eastern city of Magdeburg.

She stressed that the attacker did "not fit any previous pattern" because "he acted like an Islamist terrorist although ideologically he was clearly an enemy of Islam".

Abdulmohsen has in the past called himself a "Saudi atheist" who helped women flee Gulf countries and charged Germany was doing too little to help them.

In online posts, he also strongly criticised Germany for allowing in too many Muslim refugees and backed far-right conspiracy theories about the "Islamisation" of Europe.

In one post, he wrote: "Is there a path to justice in Germany without blowing up a German embassy or randomly slaughtering German citizens?... If anyone knows it, please let me know."

News magazine Der Spiegel, citing security sources, said the Saudi secret service had warned Germany's spy agency BND a year ago about a tweet in which Abdulmohsen threatened Germany would pay a "price" for how it treated Saudi refugees.

Die Welt daily reported, also citing security sources, that German state and federal police had carried out a "risk assessment" on Abdulmohsen last year but concluded that he posed "no specific danger".

"Blood and screams"

The city of Magdeburg has been in deep mourning over the mass carnage on Friday evening, when an SUV smashed through a crowd at its Christmas market, killing four women and a nine-year-old child and injuring 205 people.

Surgeons at overwhelmed hospitals have worked around the clock, and one health worker told local media of "blood on the floor everywhere, people screaming, lots of painkillers being administered".

Scholz on Saturday condemned the "terrible, insane" attack and made a call for national unity, at a time Germany is headed for early elections on February 23.

But as German media dug into Abdulmohsen's past, and investigators gave away little, criticism rained down from opposition parties.

Conservative CDU lawmaker Alexander Throm charged that "many citizens feel... that the Scholz government has completely failed in terms of internal security".

He demanded greater police powers to monitor and analyse data from social media platforms, telecommunications and surveillance cameras with facial recognition technology.

The far-right AfD called for a special session of parliament, and the head of the far-left BSW party, Sahra Wagenknecht, demanded that Faeser explain "why so many tips and warnings were ignored beforehand".

Mass-circulation daily Bild asked: "Why did our police and intelligence services do nothing, even though they had the Saudi on their radar?... And why were the tips from Saudi Arabia apparently ignored?"

It charged that "German authorities usually only find out about attack plans in time when foreign services warn them" and called for sweeping reforms after the election for a complete "turnaround in internal security".

Senior MP Dirk Wiese of Scholz's Social Democrats said the December 30 hearings will summon the heads of the BND, the domestic intelligence service BfV and the Office for Migration and Refugees.

"Ultra-right conspiracy ideologies"

Media meanwhile reported more details on Abdulmohsen, who had worked at a clinic that treats offenders with substance addiction problems, but had been on sick leave since late October.

Der Spiegel reported that in 2013 a court fined him for "disturbing the public peace by threatening to commit crimes" after he had darkly referenced the deadly attack on the Boston marathon.

The chairwoman of the group Central Council of Ex-Muslims, Mina Ahadi, said Abdulmohsen "is no stranger to us, because he has been terrorising us for years".

She labelled him "a psychopath who adheres to ultra-right conspiracy ideologies" and said he "doesn't just hate Muslims, but everyone who doesn't share his hatred."

Pics: Rahul Gandhi's Family Lunch At Iconic Delhi Restaurant 22 Dec 2024, 4:49 pm

After months of gruelling election campaigns from Lok Sabha polls 2024 to Assembly elections, Sunday marked a relaxing and refreshing weekend for the Gandhi family. Rahul and Priyanka, both Congress MPs from Rae Bareli and Wayanad Lok Sabha constituencies, respectively, took a break from their official engagements and assembled at the city's iconic Kwality restaurant, to spend some 'family time' together.

They were accompanied by mother Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka's husband Robert Varda, daughter Miraya Vadra and also her mother-in-law.

The whole Gandhi family gathered at the Kwality restaurant to gorge on chole-bhature and other lip-smacking dishes.

Rahul Gandhi also shared some photos of the family sitting and dining together, on his WhatsApp status. The images, as landed on social media, also elicited many likes and comments from the netizens, many of whom hailed the family sharing some special moments on the dining table.

In the photos, Rahul and family could be seen sitting in a cozy space of the restaurant and flaunting broad smiles on their faces. Sonia Gandhi is also seen sharing a smile while Robert Vadra flaunting a fully-bloated bhatura.

Putting the photos on his status, Rahul wrote, "Family lunch at the iconic Kwality Restaurant."

"Try the Chole Bhature if you go," he said further in an advice to the foodies.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rahul Gandhi (@rahulgandhi)

The picture also makes for a powerful frame as it represents three Parliamentarians in a single snap, the largest ever representation from the Gandhi family.

Rahul Gandhi is Leader of Opposition (LoP) as well as MP from Rae Bareli, his sister Priyanka is MP from Wayanad while mother Sonia Gandhi -- a former Congress president -- is a Rajya Sabha member.

For the unversed, the Kwality restaurant situated in Delhi's Connaught Place was patronised by American soldiers in the pre-Independence era. For many decades, the restaurant has remained a favourite food joint for connoisseurs because of its eclectic variety of multi-continental cuisines.

The chola-bhatura served at the restaurant remains one of the most sold-out items for generations. Many of its regular customers include celebrities from varied fields, including Bollywood. Late actress Nargis was a regular visitor here.
 

Pics: Rahul Gandhi's Family Lunch At Iconic Delhi Restaurant 22 Dec 2024, 4:49 pm

After months of gruelling election campaigns from Lok Sabha polls 2024 to Assembly elections, Sunday marked a relaxing and refreshing weekend for the Gandhi family. Rahul and Priyanka, both Congress MPs from Rae Bareli and Wayanad Lok Sabha constituencies, respectively, took a break from their official engagements and assembled at the city's iconic Kwality restaurant, to spend some 'family time' together.

They were accompanied by mother Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka's husband Robert Varda, daughter Miraya Vadra and also her mother-in-law.

The whole Gandhi family gathered at the Kwality restaurant to gorge on chole-bhature and other lip-smacking dishes.

Rahul Gandhi also shared some photos of the family sitting and dining together, on his WhatsApp status. The images, as landed on social media, also elicited many likes and comments from the netizens, many of whom hailed the family sharing some special moments on the dining table.

In the photos, Rahul and family could be seen sitting in a cozy space of the restaurant and flaunting broad smiles on their faces. Sonia Gandhi is also seen sharing a smile while Robert Vadra flaunting a fully-bloated bhatura.

Putting the photos on his status, Rahul wrote, "Family lunch at the iconic Kwality Restaurant."

"Try the Chole Bhature if you go," he said further in an advice to the foodies.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rahul Gandhi (@rahulgandhi)

The picture also makes for a powerful frame as it represents three Parliamentarians in a single snap, the largest ever representation from the Gandhi family.

Rahul Gandhi is Leader of Opposition (LoP) as well as MP from Rae Bareli, his sister Priyanka is MP from Wayanad while mother Sonia Gandhi -- a former Congress president -- is a Rajya Sabha member.

For the unversed, the Kwality restaurant situated in Delhi's Connaught Place was patronised by American soldiers in the pre-Independence era. For many decades, the restaurant has remained a favourite food joint for connoisseurs because of its eclectic variety of multi-continental cuisines.

The chola-bhatura served at the restaurant remains one of the most sold-out items for generations. Many of its regular customers include celebrities from varied fields, including Bollywood. Late actress Nargis was a regular visitor here.
 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Man Jumps In Front Of Moving Metro In Kolkata, Services Partially Disrupted 22 Dec 2024, 4:49 pm

A man jumped in front of a moving train at Sovabazar station of Kolkata Metro Railway on Sunday, partially disrupting services on the Dakshineswar-New Garia corridor, an official said.

The incident took place around 4:10 pm, prompting the motorman to apply the brakes before the engine ran over him, while power supply to the third rail was snapped, he said.

The man, whose age and identity was not immediately known, was rescued and taken to a hospital.

Truncated services continued between Central-New Garia and Dumdum-Dakshineswar till 4:45 pm, the official said.

Pics: Rahul Gandhi's Family Lunch At Iconic Delhi Restaurant 22 Dec 2024, 4:49 pm

After months of gruelling election campaigns from Lok Sabha polls 2024 to Assembly elections, Sunday marked a relaxing and refreshing weekend for the Gandhi family. Rahul and Priyanka, both Congress MPs from Rae Bareli and Wayanad Lok Sabha constituencies, respectively, took a break from their official engagements and assembled at the city's iconic Kwality restaurant, to spend some 'family time' together.

They were accompanied by mother Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka's husband Robert Varda, daughter Miraya Vadra and also her mother-in-law.

The whole Gandhi family gathered at the Kwality restaurant to gorge on chole-bhature and other lip-smacking dishes.

Rahul Gandhi also shared some photos of the family sitting and dining together, on his WhatsApp status. The images, as landed on social media, also elicited many likes and comments from the netizens, many of whom hailed the family sharing some special moments on the dining table.

In the photos, Rahul and family could be seen sitting in a cozy space of the restaurant and flaunting broad smiles on their faces. Sonia Gandhi is also seen sharing a smile while Robert Vadra flaunting a fully-bloated bhatura.

Putting the photos on his status, Rahul wrote, "Family lunch at the iconic Kwality Restaurant."

"Try the Chole Bhature if you go," he said further in an advice to the foodies.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rahul Gandhi (@rahulgandhi)

The picture also makes for a powerful frame as it represents three Parliamentarians in a single snap, the largest ever representation from the Gandhi family.

Rahul Gandhi is Leader of Opposition (LoP) as well as MP from Rae Bareli, his sister Priyanka is MP from Wayanad while mother Sonia Gandhi -- a former Congress president -- is a Rajya Sabha member.

For the unversed, the Kwality restaurant situated in Delhi's Connaught Place was patronised by American soldiers in the pre-Independence era. For many decades, the restaurant has remained a favourite food joint for connoisseurs because of its eclectic variety of multi-continental cuisines.

The chola-bhatura served at the restaurant remains one of the most sold-out items for generations. Many of its regular customers include celebrities from varied fields, including Bollywood. Late actress Nargis was a regular visitor here.
 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Allu Arjun’s Father Breaks Silence On Their Home Being Vandalised: ‘The Law Will Take Its Own Course’ 22 Dec 2024, 4:45 pm

Rajasthan Couple Caught Smuggling Luxury Watches Worth Rs 13 Crore In Gujarat 22 Dec 2024, 4:34 pm

A couple from Rajasthan was detained at Ahmedabad airport for allegedly trying to smuggle two high-end watches worth approximately Rs 13 crore from Dubai on Friday, officials in the Customs Department said on Sunday.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and Richard Mille watches, mostly spotted on the wrists of billionaires or celebrities, were seized from the man and the woman, who arrived separately at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport from Dubai. 

According to the officials, one of them spotted the woman with one of the watches on her arrival from Dubai. Upon interrogation, she said it was gifted by her husband. When she was asked about her husband's whereabouts, she said he was arriving on another flight.

The woman's husband, the officials said, was caught when he was trying to exit the airport on his arrival. He initially claimed that the watch belonged to him and that it cost around Rs 1,000. When he was asked to produce a bill, he said he did not have one. 

As authorities searched his belongings, they found the case for the watch. The man then admitted to smuggling the item, the officials said. 

The couple was subsequently detained and upon interrogation, said they belong to Pratapgarh in Rajasthan. They said they were made to travel to Dubai to bring the watches to Ahmedabad, the officials added. 

The officials said a detailed probe is underway.

(With inputs from Mahendra Prasad)

Rahul Gandhi, Sonia, Priyanka & Family Relish Chole Bhature At Delhi Restaurant 22 Dec 2024, 4:29 pm

"Saw Bouncers Behaving Recklessly": Cops On 'Pushpa 2' Premiere Stampede 22 Dec 2024, 4:28 pm

Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand on Sunday issued a stern warning to bouncers against misbehaving with police personnel, stating that VIPs they accompany would be held accountable for their actions.

"In the recent incident at Sandhya Theatre, we saw 40-50 bouncers behaving recklessly. Despite the presence of the public and police, they pushed everyone aside. Their sole focus was on the VIP. This is a warning to all bouncers: if they misbehave with the police, strict action will be taken against them. The behaviour of the bouncers is the responsibility of the VIPs they accompany. VIPs cannot shift the blame to the bouncers; the liability rests with them," said Mr Anand.

The warning came in the wake of a stampede-like situation at Sandhya Theatre during the premiere of the film Pushpa 2.

Meanwhile, Telugu superstar Allu Arjun responded on Saturday to allegations holding him responsible for the tragedy at Sandhya Theatre during the premiere of his movie Pushpa 2: The Rule.

Speaking at a press conference on Saturday evening, Allu Arjun described the incident as "very unfortunate" and criticised what he called "misinformation" and "character assassination" against him.

"It is a very unfortunate incident, completely accidental. My condolences to the bereaved family. I am receiving updates every hour about the child who was hospitalised, and his condition is improving. There is a lot of misinformation and false allegations being spread. I do not wish to blame any department or politician. However, my character is being unjustly assassinated," Arjun told the media, referring to the December 4 incident at Sandhya Theatre, where a woman was killed and her child injured.

"I'm staying updated on the child's condition. The good news is that he is improving. Despite this tragedy, the child's progress brings some solace," he added.

The tragedy unfolded on December 4, when Allu Arjun attended the premiere of his movie Pushpa 2: The Rule. A large crowd had gathered to see the star, and the situation escalated when Arjun waved to fans from the sunroof of his vehicle, resulting in the death of a woman named Revathi.

Following the incident, Allu Arjun was arrested but was released the next day after securing bail from the Telangana High Court by furnishing a bond of Rs 50,000.

Meanwhile, Allu Arjun's latest release, Pushpa 2: The Rule, directed by Sukumar and co-starring Rashmika Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil, continues to break box office records.

Shahid Kapoor Teases Fans With 'Deva' Update: Enjoys 'Happy Sunday' And Says 'Wait for It' 22 Dec 2024, 4:26 pm

At Least Nine Killed As Small Plane Crashes Into Brazilian Tourist City 22 Dec 2024, 4:25 pm

At least nine people died when a small plane crashed on Sunday morning in Gramado, in southern Brazil, authorities said, slamming into a commercial area of the tourist city.

The aircraft crashed into the chimney of a building, struck the second floor of a house and then "fell on a furniture store," the Rio Grande do Sul state security secretariat said in a statement.

An inn was also damaged, it added.

"There are nine deaths confirmed by the civil defense, and there are no survivors of the plane," Cleber dos Santos Lima, director of the Interior Police Department of the state civil police, told AFP.

Authorities have not yet confirmed how many passengers and crew were traveling on the plane, a Piper Cheyenne 400 turboprop, but earlier said they thought it was carrying 10 people.

At least 15 people were taken to the hospital, most for smoke inhalation from the fire caused by the crash.

The plane had taken off from the municipality of Canela, another tourist town in Rio Grande do Sul.

Gramado is a popular tourist city in Brazil, with a significant influx of visitors during the Christmas season.

2 Passengers Fight Over Armrest Space On Delhi-Bound Air India Flight 22 Dec 2024, 4:23 pm

Two passengers on board a Delhi-bound Air India flight from Copenhagen (Denmark) came to blows over armrest space just when the aircraft was about to land at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Sunday, a source said.

The flight landed at around 7.35 am.

An Air India official said that the passengers had an argument over some issue at its Copenhagen-Delhi flight of Saturday which was later sorted out "amicably".

According to the source, "The two passengers started an argument over the armrest space in economy class when the cabin crew was serving food and beverages, which turned into a heated exchange. The cabin crew pacified them by giving one of the passengers another seat.

"However, when the aircraft was about to land in Delhi, the passenger came to collect his baggage from the seat he was sitting earlier, they again started the fight and came to blows." The number of passengers on board the Boeing 787-8 aircraft, operating AI 158 (Copenhagen-Delhi) could not be known.

The source, however, said that the flight was almost full.

When contacted, an Air India official said, "There was an argument between the two passengers over some issue but it was resolved amicably. They even shook hands before leaving the airport."

Chandrababu Naidu's Party Launches Its First Membership Drive In Delhi 22 Dec 2024, 4:17 pm

Close to 500 people registered themselves today as members as the Telugu Desam Party or TDP, a BJP ally, launched its first-ever membership drive in Delhi, drawing an enthusiastic response.

Held at the Masonic Center of India, the membership drive marks a pivotal moment for the TDP as it expands beyond Andhra Pradesh.

The membership drive was led by the Krishna Mohan Alapati, TDP's Delhi leader. He addressed the members about the party's vision of progress and development. Mr Alapati also praised the leadership of N Chandrababu Naidu, party chief and the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.

"It is not just a TDP drive, it is a drive to strengthen the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and TDP...The drive is very good. A large number of people are arriving to participate in this drive...The party is doing well under the leadership of Nara Lokesh and Chandrababu Naidu...Andhra Pradesh is also growing fast...," Mr Alapati said. 

The alliance of TDP, BJP and Janasena won a landslide victory in the state, bagging 21 parliamentary and 164 assembly seats. The TDP won 16 Lok Sabha seats, BJP three and Janasena two, decimating the Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSR Congress Party (YSRCP). Out of 25 Lok Sabha seats, NDA won 21 seats while the YSRCP managed to win only four seats.

Six years after severing ties, the TDP joined the BJP-led NDA alliance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
 
Andhra Pradesh also played a crucial role in Lok Sabha elections with its 25 parliamentary seats, making the TDP's influence pivotal in the NDA's overall strength.  

The party's alliance with the BJP in the NDA adds diversity and depth to the coalition, ensuring that Southern India has a strong voice at the center. This nationwide membership drive sends a strong message about the party's inclusivity and its intent to represent regional interests on a national platform.

Kumar Vishwas takes a dig at Shatrughan-Sonakshi 22 Dec 2024, 4:15 pm

Allu Arjun’s House Vandalised By Protestors, Moushumi Chatterjee Hints Amitabh Bachchan Changed Post Success 22 Dec 2024, 4:13 pm

Allu's father shares first statement after attack on home 22 Dec 2024, 4:13 pm

National Aviation University Invites Application For Faculty Positions, Salary Up To Rs 2.18 Lakh 22 Dec 2024, 4:01 pm

Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University (RGNAU) is currently accepting applications for faculty positions across various domains, including Aviation Science, Management, and Engineering. Eligible candidates can apply through the official website. The deadline for application submission is January 31, 2025.

Vacancy Details

Professor

Posts Available:

• Aviation Science: 2 posts
• Management/Business Administration: 2 posts
• Engineering and Technology: 2 posts

Category-Wise Distribution: UR - 5, OBC (NCL) - 1

Pay Scale: Rs 1,44,200 - Rs 2,18,200

Associate Professor

Posts Available:

• Aviation Science: 6 posts
• Management/Business Administration: 6 posts
• Engineering and Technology: 6 posts

Category-Wise Distribution: UR - 10, SC - 2, ST - 1, OBC (NCL) - 4, EWS - 1

Pay Scale: Rs 1,31,100 - Rs 2,16,600

Assistant Professor

Posts Available:

Aviation Science: 12 posts

Management/Business Administration: 12 posts

Engineering and Technology: 12 posts

Category-Wise Distribution: UR - 17, SC - 5, ST - 2, OBC (NCL) - 9, EWS - 3

Pay Scale: Rs 56,100 - Rs 1,77,500

Important Guidelines

• The university reserves the right to modify or cancel the recruitment process without prior notice.
• Reservation and relaxation policies for SC/ST/OBC/PwD/EWS candidates will follow UGC and Government of India norms.
• Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria outlined in UGC Regulations, 2018, as amended.
• PhD holders from foreign universities must provide an equivalence certificate issued by the Association of Indian Universities, New Delhi.

For further details and application submission, visit the official website of RGNAU

Check the detailed notification here

Man Runs Tractor Over Brother In Karnataka, Then Surrenders To Cops 22 Dec 2024, 4:00 pm

A man has been arrested for running a tractor over his younger brother and killing him in a remote village in Karnataka's Belagavi district, allegedly over a property dispute, the police said on Sunday.

The incident, which took place on Saturday, was reported from Yaragatti Taluk under Murgod police station limits.

Maruti Bavihal (30) ran the tractor on his younger brother Gopal (27) killing him instantaneously.

Just recently, the ancestral property was divided between the three brothers. Each brother got a tractor, said the police, but Gopal was not happy and frequently fought with his elder brother.

The elder brother lost his temper and ran the tractor over his brother and then surrendered, said the police.

Allu Arjun House Attacked: Protesters Damage Property, Demand Rs 1 Cr For Pushpa 2 Stampede Victim 22 Dec 2024, 3:56 pm

‘He Refused To Leave…’: Hyderabad Police Debunk Allu Arjun’s Claims, Release Stampede Footage 22 Dec 2024, 3:55 pm

Pushpa 2 Controversy: Allu Arjun’s Effigy Burnt, Protestors Demand Justice For Sandhya Theatre Stampede Victim 22 Dec 2024, 3:55 pm

India Must Shield Constitutional Bodies From Political Influence: Supreme Court Judge 22 Dec 2024, 3:54 pm

India must protect the integrity of its constitutional institutions from outside interference, including those that are politically motivated, said Justice PS Narasimha, Judge, Supreme Court of India, on Sunday.

Justice Narasimha was delivering the Justice ES Ventakaramiah Centennial Memorial Lecture, organised by the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru.

Justice Venkataramiah served as the 19th Chief Justice of India. He previously served as a judge of the Karnataka High Court, as well as the Advocate General of Mysore. According to the Supreme Court Observer, he was a part of benches that pronounced 720 judgments. Of these, he authored 256 judgments during his term at the Supreme Court.

In his lecture, Justice Narasimha said integrity of the institutions can be maintained only by putting in place safeguards in the appointment, decision making and removal process of individuals who helm these institutions.

He also added that the topic of the memorial lecture, 'Reimagining Constitutional Institutions: Integrity, Efficiency, and Accountability' is relevant, as Justice Venkataramiah belonged to that generation of judicial statesmen who played an active role in developing and sustaining institutions.

Justice Narasimha dwelled in detail about the role of 'Fourth Branch Institutions' like the Election Commission, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, Union and State Public Service Commissions, and the National Commissions for SCs, STs, and OBCs.

Giving the example of the Election Commission, for instance, the justice said, "Today, we take it for granted that there is a separate body outside the executive to hold elections for Parliament and state legislatures.

However, it is important to recognise that before its institutionalisation, it was possible for elections to be conducted through the executive branch," said the judge.

He lauded the vision of India's constitution-makers who chose to institutionalise the superintendence, direction and control of elections through a body outside the Executive.

"I am amazed by the foresight of our constitution makers to provision sub-article (2) to Article 324 to enable appointment of such number of Election Commissioners, over and above the Chief Election Commissioner, to constitute the Commission," said Justice Narasimha.

He went on to add that the non-constitutional fourth branch institutions like the Central Vigilance Commission and the Central Information Commission, can also be categorised under 'integrity institutions', which should be insulated from political influence.

He also said our Constitution is not a mere legal document, but an instrument of social change. He said it has clearly demarcated constitutional spaces for the traditional three branches the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary.

"There is the occasional trespass, if I may use that term; there is a contestation as to the custody of Constitutional spaces, but that only underlines that there is a system of checks and balances," he added.

According to him, these checks and balances are put in place by the 'Fourth Branch institutions'. "We need other institutions or procedures which can make the traditional branches accountable, accessible and open to the citizenry." We need institutions that can withstand political tribulations, hold power wielding officials accountable and ensure a smooth democratic process," said the judge.

He also talked about how the citizenry is entitled to ask questions at the traditional branches and receive replies in an accountable manner.

"The Information Commissions constituted under the RTI Act is also body of immense constitutional significance as it further ensures accountability and transparency in government functioning by creating a mechanism for citizens to access information from public authorities," said the justice.

Adding that their independence from the government is a hallmark of their functioning, Justice Narasimha said, for this, the RTI Act secures the appointment, tenure, conditions of service, and removal of their officers.

Despite the importance of 'integrity institutions', Justice Narasimha said as citizens we have glossed over the significance and underestimated the capacity and relevance of these institutions.

"There is hardly any discussion, reflection and scholarship on public institutions. Importantly, we have collectively failed to re-invigorate and recast some of our institutions which are stuck in an analogue mode in a digital world," he added.

He also highlighted the tasks that lie ahead of us as a constitutional democracy, like fixing infrastructural and enforcement failures, as well as lack of autonomy.

"My attempt today was only to kindle a serious conversation around how our institutions work. A conversation which I hope will be sustained one 'not just in terms of legal scholarship, but also which will contribute to the actual working of our democratic Constitution," added Justice Narasimha.

ISRO To Study How Crops Grow In Space On PSLV C60 Mission 22 Dec 2024, 3:40 pm

Demonstration of seed germination in outer space, a robotic arm to catch a tethered debris there, and testing of green propulsion systems are some of the experiments planned on the POEM-4 -- the fourth stage of ISRO's PSLV rocket that remains in orbit after launching a satellite.

The PSLV-C60 mission, slated for an yearend launch, is scheduled to place the twin satellites 'Chaser and Target' to demonstrate the space docking technologies that are crucial for building India's space station.

The PSLV Orbital Experiment Module (POEM) will carry 24 experiments -- 14 from various ISRO labs and 10 from private universities and start-ups -- to demonstrate various technologies in space.

ISRO plans to grow eight cowpea seeds from seed germination and plant sustenance until the two-leaf stage in a closed-box environment with active thermal control as part of the Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS) developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.

The Amity Plant Experimental Module in Space (APEMS), developed by Amity University, Mumbai, plans to study the growth of spinach in a microgravity environment.

Two parallel experiments will be carried out simultaneously -- one on POEM-4 in space and one on the ground at the university.

The experiment's outcome will provide insights into how higher plants sense the direction of gravity and light.

The Debris Capture Robotic Manipulator, developed by VSSC, will demonstrate the capturing of tethered debris by a robotic manipulator using visual serving and object motion prediction in the space environment.

The robotic manipulator will be capable of capturing free-floating debris and refuelling tethered and free-floating spacecraft in future POEM missions.

Mumbai-based start-up Manastu Space will test Vyom-2U, the green propulsion thruster, that uses a blend of hydrogen peroxide and in-house additives as fuel, with the goal of providing a safer and higher-performing alternative to hydrazine for space applications.

The Varuna payload, developed by Piersight Space-Ahmedabad, is an in-orbit demonstration of a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) in a CubeSat form factor.

This mission marks the initial step towards establishing a constellation of SAR and Automatic Identification System (AIS) satellites, aiming to provide persistent, near real-time monitoring of all human and industrial activity at sea.

AAP vs BJP As Delhi Tableau Rejected For Republic Day Parade Yet Again 22 Dec 2024, 3:35 pm

Delhi will not have a tableau in the traditional Republic Day parade at the Rajpath again this year. This would be the fourth time the national capital has not been included -- a situation that has sparked a war of words again between Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party and the BJP. Mr Kejriwal, who headed the Delhi government for almost a decade, led his party's attack on the BJP -- his comments coloured by the coming assembly election.

"For the last so many years, the tableau of Delhi is not allowed to participate in the parade. What kind of politics is this? Why do they hate the people of Delhi so much? Why should the people of Delhi vote for them?" Mr Kejriwal said in a pointed message. 

"They have no vision for the people of Delhi. They only abuse Kejriwal. Should we vote for them just for this? Why are the tableau and the people of Delhi being stopped from participating in the 26th January parade?" he said.

Delhi, he added, is the capital of India and should be represented every year in the January 26 parade. 

The BJP claimed Mr Kejriwal's comments indicated his "anarchist nature" and questioned what the former Chief Minister wished to display.

"I want to ask him what he wants to show (in the tableau of Delhi). The severe overflow where more than 60 people died... or the 'Sheeshmahal' that he has made by looting the money of people," said Delhi BJP chief Virendraa Sachdeva.

"The tableau of the whole country is displayed in the parade of Republic Day. A committee decides the tableau. Now, Arvind Kejriwal wants to do politics in this too," he said. 

"We have not forgotten the Republic Day of 2014 when Arvind Kejriwal staged a protest," Mr Sachdeva added.

Last year too, Delhi was not allowed a tableau in the parade. Senior AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj said it was the third time in a row and claimed it was the BJP's "revenge" after losing to AAP in the Punjab assembly election.

Mr Bharadwaj said it's not a coincidence that Punjab's tableau proposal was also rejected.

Officials said the last time Delhi's tableau featured in the Republic Day parade was in 2021. It showcased the Shahjahanabad redevelopment project.

Abhijeet: Gandhi was father of Pakistan, not India 22 Dec 2024, 3:35 pm

Kareena Kapoor Gushes Over Hubby Saif Ali Khan, Drops Taimur’s Pic As Family Prepares To Ring In Christmas 22 Dec 2024, 3:32 pm

15-Year-Old Boy Dies By Suicide After Mother Refuses To Buy Him New Phone In Maharashtra 22 Dec 2024, 3:19 pm

A 15-year-old boy allegedly dies by suicide after his mother refused to get him a mobile phone on his birthday in Maharashtra's Sangli district, police said on Sunday.

The incident occurred in Miraj city on Saturday night, an official said.

Vishwajeet Ramesh Chamdanwale allegedly dies by suicide by hanging himself at his house while his mother and sister were asleep, he said.

The official said Vishwajeet celebrated his birthday two days ago and had asked his mother for a mobile phone. The mother denied the request due to some financial problems.

The boy's family found him hanging the next day, he said.

The official added an accidental death report (ADR) has been registered, and further investigation is underway.

The turning points | 49th anniversary issue 22 Dec 2024, 3:12 pm

'Absurdity': Congress Slams Centre Over Different Tax Slabs For Popcorn 22 Dec 2024, 2:52 pm

Tomatoes Thrown, Protest Outside Allu Arjun's Home Over Stampede Death 22 Dec 2024, 2:51 pm

A massive protest took place outside the house of Telugu actor Allu Arjun over the stampede earlier this month that claimed a life. A group of people, claiming to students of the Osmania University, barged into his house, threw tomatoes and broke flower pots. The protesters raised slogans against the actor and sought justice for the woman who died, till they were removed by the police.

The stampede at Hyderabad's Sandhya Theatre during the premiere of Pushpa 2, which took place  on December 4, has claimed the life of a woman. Her eight-year-old son is still in coma and is admitted at a city hospital.

Hyderabad city police chief CV Anand made a video presentation of the sequence of events leading to the stampede and its aftermath.

A senior police officer said ever after the stampede, the actor did not leave. The police then approached his manager and told him about the death of the woman. But the manager did not heed their request. When they reached the actor and explained the situation, he insisted on watching the movie first, the officer added.

Yesterday, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy had told the assembly that Allu Arjun had attended the premiere of his movie 'Pushpa 2' despite refusal of police permission. He had even waved from his car's sun-roof on his way in and out, holding a roadshow of sorts and triggering a stampede-like situation. Even after the death of the woman, the actor did not leave the cinema hall, prompting the police to force him out, the Chief Minister had said. 

Earlier today, a video surfaced showing the police escorting out the actor from the movie hall, appearing to support the Chief Minister's remarks.

Watch: Pakistani Girl Selling Snacks Speaks Flawless English, Impresses Internet 22 Dec 2024, 2:50 pm

A young Pakistani girl has captured the hearts of social media users worldwide with her remarkable language skills. Despite never attending school, Shumaila fluently speaks six languages: Urdu, English, Saraiki, Punjabi, Pashto, and Chitrali. Shumaila, who earns a living by selling peanuts, sunflower seeds, and other snacks in Lower Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, was discovered by Pakistani YouTuber Zeeshan Shabbir, also known as Doctor Zeeshan. He met the young girl while filming a vlog near the iconic Lowari Tunnel, a scenic route connecting Dir and Chitral through the Hindu Kush mountains.

Videos of their interaction have gone viral, showcasing Shumaila's impressive language abilities and charming personality. When Mr Shabbir asks Shumaila to introduce herself, she answers with remarkable confidence and poise. "My father speaks 14 languages, and I can speak six. I don't go to school; my father teaches me at home," she says. 

She then goes on to promote her products saying, "I am selling peanuts and sunflower seeds. Tell me if you want to buy something."

Here's the video:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ZS MotoVlogs (@doctor_zeeshan)

In another video, Shumaila opened up about her unique family dynamics, stating that she has five mothers and 30 brothers and sisters. Impressively, all of her family members speak English fluently and one of her brothers resides in Birmingham, England. She also shared details about her daily routine, revealing that she commutes to work every morning and returns home at night.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ZS MotoVlogs (@doctor_zeeshan)

The videos have gone viral, and users flooded the comment sections with admiration and praise for Shumaila's remarkable intelligence, confidence, and entrepreneurial spirit. Many users also offered to send her books. One user wrote, "This is brilliant. May Allah always bless her with the best of everything. Ameen."

Another commented, "Her command of English is better than many who attend elite schools. Hats off to her father's efforts."

A third user said, "My dearest Shumaila, you make me proud, please let me know how I can send you books that you are interested in, thanks.''

A fourth added, "This is so lovely, thank you for sharing. She seems like a very bright. Is there anything we can donate to her family for school supplies? I would love to donate!"

Business 22 Dec 2024, 2:48 pm

Amit Shah Calls For Mapping Demographic Data Along India-Myanmar Border 22 Dec 2024, 2:45 pm

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that the demographic data of people along the India-Myanmar border, especially in Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur, should be mapped so that it can help in fencing of the border and infiltration can be stopped.

The Home Minister, who chaired the 12th meeting of the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) Society in Agartala, said that there is a need to conduct a comprehensive survey in the border areas.

Four northeastern states - Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Manipur (398 km), Nagaland (215 km) and Mizoram (510 km) - share 1,643-km unfenced border with Myanmar.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has planned to fence the entire 1,643 km porous India-Myanmar border, known for the smuggling of arms, ammunition and narcotics, at a cost of Rs 31,000 crore.

Mr Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's space sector has taken a giant leap forward in the last 10 years.

He said that after 25 years of establishment of the NESAC Society, the positive aspects of the work being done by the society are now visible.

The Union Home Minister said the NESAC Society should further expand the scope of its work in the northeastern states, and, for this, initiatives should also be taken by the state governments.

Mr Shah urged the NESAC society to take 100 students each with a science background from all the states of the northeast on a visit to the headquarters of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) so that they can develop interest in space and related technology.

He urged the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) to contribute 60 per cent for this project.

Mr  Shah also requested the state governments of the northeast to start new courses related to space technology in engineering colleges. He said that so far, 20 waterways have been built with the help of NESAC and the society should explore the possibility of building more waterways.

The Home Minister said there is a need for extensive mapping for mineral, oil, and coal reserves in the northeastern states. The northeastern states would be financially benefited from the royalty received for these minerals.

He said the NESAC Society should focus on forest area development using space science.

Similarly, the Home Minister also asked the Society to map floods in the northeastern states.

Mr Shah praised the efforts of NESAC Society for proper and positive use of space technology in administration and emphasized its extensive use in the development of a difficult geographical area like the northeast in the coming times.

DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, his deputy Sukanta Majumdar, chief ministers of several northeastern states, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Secretary, Department of Space Dr S Somnath and Director, Intelligence Bureau Tapan Deka, senior officials of the central and state governments of northeastern states were present in the meeting.

The Union Home Minister is the president of the NESAC Society while the ISRO chief is the chairman of the NESAC Governing Council.

Through satellite-based imageries and studies, the NESAC, situated in Meghalaya's Umiam, helped the northeastern states in planning, preparing and monitoring diverse projects ranging from agriculture to various infrastructures.

BJP Leader Who Lost To Priyanka Gandhi Challenges Election, Congress Reacts 22 Dec 2024, 2:41 pm

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Navya Haridas has moved the Kerala High Court challenging the election of Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra from Kerala's Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in the last month's bypoll.

Ms Gandhi Vadra made her successful maiden electoral debut from the Wayanad seat after her brother and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi vacated the seat, choosing to retain family bastion Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Ms Gandhi defeated her rival, Navya Haridas, by over five lakh votes in the November 13 bypoll.

In her petition, Ms Haridas has claimed that the Congress MP did not correctly disclose her and her family's assets in the nomination papers and provided "false information".

This is against the Model Code of Conduct and amounts to corrupt practices, Ms Haridas claimed.

"We filed an election petition yesterday in the High Court against Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. It clearly states that the nomination papers were misleading. Many important things were hidden from the nomination papers like the assets of Ms Gandhi Vadra and her family," she told the news agency ANI today.

"Earlier we had given a complaint to the Election Commission regarding this issue but it was not taken up as how we expected it to be," she said.

#WATCH | Kozhikode, Kerala: BJP leader Navya Haridas says, "We have filed an election petition yesterday in the High Court against Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. It clearly states that the nomination papers were misleading and many important things were hidden from the… pic.twitter.com/RUc5AKcDKp

— ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2024

Advocate Hari Kumar G Nair, who filed the petition for Ms Haridas, said the petition seeks setting aside of Ms Gandhi Vadra's election for allegedly "suppressing vital information about the various assets owned by her and her family", and "misguiding, misinforming and keeping the voters in the dark with the intention of influencing their choice".

The matter is likely to come up for a hearing in January next year as the high court will be on vacation from December 23 to January 5.

Congress On Navya Haridas' Petition

Congress' Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari attacked Navya Haridas and called her petition an act of "cheap publicity". He said he is confident that the petition will be rejected and a fine will be imposed on her.

His party colleague Manickam Tagore said that even though BJP has the right to file a petition, he is confident that the 'truth is on their side'.

"BJP people have the right to do all these things. They will complain against Rahul Gandhi in Delhi and against Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Wayanad. We all know that the truth is on our side," he told the news agency ANI.

What Priyanka Gandhi Said In Wayanad Nomination Papers

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, in her nomination papers, had declared assets worth over Rs 12 crore. The 52-year-old Congress general secretary also declared a total income of over Rs 46.39 lakh in the financial year 2023-2024, which included rental income and interest from banks and other investments.

Giving details of her assets and liabilities in the affidavit filed along with her nomination papers in October, she said she had movable assets of over Rs 4.24 crore that include deposits of varying amounts in three bank accounts, investments in mutual funds, PPF, a Honda CRV car gifted by her husband, Robert Vadra, and over 4,400 grams (gross) of gold worth Rs 1.15 crore.

Her immovable assets are worth over Rs 7.74 crore, which included two inherited half shares of agricultural land in the Mehrauli area of Delhi and a half-share in a farmhouse building located therein, all of which together are now worth over Rs 2.10 crore.

Besides that, Ms Gandhi Vadra said she has a self-acquired residential property in Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, which is presently worth over Rs 5.63 crore.

Ms Gandhi Vadra, who has a Post Graduate Diploma in Buddhist Studies through distance learning from the University of Sunderland, UK and a BA Hons degree in Psychology from Delhi University, has liabilities of Rs 15.75 lakh.

In her affidavit, she also gave details of her husband's movable and immovable assets. She said Mr Vadra had movable assets worth over Rs 37.9 crore and immovable assets worth over Rs 27.64 crore.

With Ms Gandhi Vadra's entry in the Lok Sabha, the three Gandhis, including Rahul Gandhi and their mother Sonia Gandhi, are now Members of Parliament. Mrs Gandhi is currently serving as a Rajya Sabha MP.

(With agency inputs)

Who wore what at launch of NMACC's Arts Cafe 22 Dec 2024, 2:30 pm

Key Challenges Gen Z Students Face When Studying Abroad, How To Overcome Them 22 Dec 2024, 2:28 pm

Studying abroad offers Gen Z students valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth, including cultural exposure and enhanced career prospects. However, it also comes with a range of challenges that require resilience and adaptability. From homesickness to academic differences, students often encounter hurdles that need careful preparation and proactive strategies.

Homesickness:

Being away from family and friends can cause emotional strain. Regular video calls, staying connected through social media, and getting involved in community activities can alleviate this feeling. Joining clubs and volunteering also offers opportunities to meet new people and form a support network.

Cultural Adjustment:

Adapting to a new culture can be overwhelming. Understanding local customs, participating in cultural exchange programmes, and keeping an open mind are essential in easing this transition. Maintaining curiosity and flexibility helps in embracing new experiences.

Language Barriers:

Language differences can be frustrating for many international students. Enrolling in language courses, engaging in everyday conversations, and using language apps can improve fluency. Watching local media and practicing regularly can also aid in overcoming communication challenges.

Academic Differences:

The shift to a different educational system can be difficult. Using academic support services like tutoring, study groups, and staying organised can help students manage the academic workload. Setting clear goals and seeking clarification from professors ensures a smoother academic transition.

Financial Strain:

High tuition fees and living costs are significant concerns for students studying abroad. Creating a detailed budget, exploring part-time work opportunities, and utilizing student discounts can help students manage finances more effectively.

Fitness and Well-being:

Adjusting to a new healthcare system and maintaining physical and mental health is crucial. Understanding health insurance options, staying active, and using counselling services available at universities can ensure overall well-being during the study abroad experience.

Precautionary Measures:

Personal safety is a priority when navigating unfamiliar environments. Students should familiarize themselves with local safety protocols, register with their embassy, and stay informed about local norms and regulations to protect themselves.

Rahul Subramaniam, Co-founder of Athena Education, noted, "Gen Z students are redefining the study abroad experience by focusing on affordability, cultural immersion, and career opportunities. Destinations like the US, UK, Canada, Germany, and Singapore provide manageable tuition fees and strong post-graduation pathways. Students are exploring diverse fields like Environmental Engineering, Astrophysics, and Biotechnology Ventures."

"This generation values practical skills that match dynamic job market trends and carefully evaluates ROI in their educational choices. Beyond academics, they crave enriching cultural experiences and demand holistic support systems that address safety and mental health. They require a holistic education that blends knowledge, personal growth, and real-world readiness, shaping them into adaptable and resilient global citizens," he adds.

Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal’s Beach Prank in Australia Proves He’s Bollywood’s Funniest Husband 22 Dec 2024, 2:26 pm

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Is Safe Car Enough? Volvo Crash That Killed CEO, Family Sparks Big Question 22 Dec 2024, 2:24 pm

The chilling crash of a Volvo SUV near Bengaluru yesterday, which claimed six lives, has sparked a conversation on how safe cars may not make a difference unless our roads are made safer. The Volvo XC90, considered the gold standard in car safety, was crushed by a container truck that jumped the divider on the Nelmangala-Tumkuru highway.

The victims have been identified as Chandram Yegapagol (48), his wife Gourabai (42), his son Gyan (16), daughter Deeksha (12) sister-in-law Vijayalakshmi (36) and Vijayalakshmi's daughter Arya (6). Chandram Yegapagol was the managing director and CEO of IAST Software Solutions, a Bengaluru-based automotive solutions firm, and had reportedly bought the SUV just two months back.

According to reports, the family was going to Sangli in neighbouring Maharashtra to meet Chandram's father. Police have told The Times of India that he was driving safely and was "not at fault".

Arif, the driver of the container truck, who suffered injuries in the accident, has told the media that the heavy vehicle jumped the divider while trying to save a car that stopped suddenly on the highway. "A car in front of me hit the brakes suddenly. When I hit the brakes, the truck kept going forward. To save the car, I swerved to the right and the truck jumped the divider," he said. The truck then hit the milk truck before crushing the Volvo behind it.

The driver said he was not aware of the fact that six people were killed in the accident. He said the truck was transporting aluminum. It must be pointed out that it is always difficult for loaded heavy vehicles to stop instantly because of their weight. This makes panic braking risky. The driver, Arif, has been booked for rash driving and death by negligence.

The accident has sparked a conversation on social media, with users pointing out that the safest of cars cannot save lives unless others on the road are driving safely.

DriveSmart, a handle promoting safe driving, shared shocking pictures from the accident site. "This pic is a reminder that being safer on the road is not achieved by a safer car alone. Safe Roads + Safe Driver + Safe Car: All three are essential for safety. All the passengers in this Volvo lost lives in this car which supposedly went through all types of testing," it said.

This pic is a reminder that being safer on the road is not achieved by a safer car alone.

Safe Roads + Safe Driver + Safe Car -->

All three are essential for safety.

All the passengers in this Volvo lost lives in this car which supposedly went through all types of testing. pic.twitter.com/7p52rs2btF

— DriveSmart🛡️ (@DriveSmart_IN) December 21, 2024

Some users pointed out that while Volvo makes very safe vehicles, it is impossible for a car to withstand the weight of a container loaded with aluminum. Others have tagged Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari to bring stricter rules to ensure road safety.

Senior police officer CK Baba has told Deccan Herald that six cranes had to be brought in to remove the heavily loaded truck from over the car. Then the bodies of the family members were brought out one by one from the crushed vehicle.

During a discussion on India's accident deaths in Lok Sabha in the ongoing Winter Session, Mr Gadkari said he has to hide his face at international conferences on road accidents. Referring to his target to reduce accidents by half when he took charge of the ministry, he said, "Forget about reducing the number of accidents, I have no hesitation to admit that it has been increased. When I go to attend international conferences where there is a discussion on road accidents, I try to hide my face."

The minister said that society has to change and the rule of law has to be respected if accidents have to be prevented. According to government data, over 1.7 lakh people died in road accidents last year. This is about 470 deaths every day and a majority of victims are in the 18-34 years age group.

Is Safe Car Enough? Volvo Crash That Killed CEO, Family Sparks Big Question 22 Dec 2024, 2:24 pm

The chilling crash of a Volvo SUV near Bengaluru yesterday, which claimed six lives, has sparked a conversation on how safe cars may not make a difference unless our roads are made safer. The Volvo XC90, considered the gold standard in car safety, was crushed by a container truck that jumped the divider on the Nelmangala-Tumkuru highway.

The victims have been identified as Chandram Yegapagol (48), his wife Gourabai (42), his son Gyan (16), daughter Deeksha (12) sister-in-law Vijayalakshmi (36) and Vijayalakshmi's daughter Arya (6). Chandram Yegapagol was the managing director and CEO of IAST Software Solutions, a Bengaluru-based automotive solutions firm, and had reportedly bought the SUV just two months back.

According to reports, the family was going to Sangli in neighbouring Maharashtra to meet Chandram's father. Police have told The Times of India that he was driving safely and was "not at fault".

Arif, the driver of the container truck, who suffered injuries in the accident, has told the media that the heavy vehicle jumped the divider while trying to save a car that stopped suddenly on the highway. "A car in front of me hit the brakes suddenly. When I hit the brakes, the truck kept going forward. To save the car, I swerved to the right and the truck jumped the divider," he said. The truck then hit the milk truck before crushing the Volvo behind it.

The driver said he was not aware of the fact that six people were killed in the accident. He said the truck was transporting aluminum. It must be pointed out that it is always difficult for loaded heavy vehicles to stop instantly because of their weight. This makes panic braking risky. The driver, Arif, has been booked for rash driving and death by negligence.

The accident has sparked a conversation on social media, with users pointing out that the safest of cars cannot save lives unless others on the road are driving safely.

DriveSmart, a handle promoting safe driving, shared shocking pictures from the accident site. "This pic is a reminder that being safer on the road is not achieved by a safer car alone. Safe Roads + Safe Driver + Safe Car: All three are essential for safety. All the passengers in this Volvo lost lives in this car which supposedly went through all types of testing," it said.

This pic is a reminder that being safer on the road is not achieved by a safer car alone.

Safe Roads + Safe Driver + Safe Car -->

All three are essential for safety.

All the passengers in this Volvo lost lives in this car which supposedly went through all types of testing. pic.twitter.com/7p52rs2btF

— DriveSmart?️ (@DriveSmart_IN) December 21, 2024

Some users pointed out that while Volvo makes very safe vehicles, it is impossible for a car to withstand the weight of a container loaded with aluminum. Others have tagged Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari to bring stricter rules to ensure road safety.

Senior police officer CK Baba has told Deccan Herald that six cranes had to be brought in to remove the heavily loaded truck from over the car. Then the bodies of the family members were brought out one by one from the crushed vehicle.

During a discussion on India's accident deaths in Lok Sabha in the ongoing Winter Session, Mr Gadkari said he has to hide his face at international conferences on road accidents. Referring to his target to reduce accidents by half when he took charge of the ministry, he said, "Forget about reducing the number of accidents, I have no hesitation to admit that it has been increased. When I go to attend international conferences where there is a discussion on road accidents, I try to hide my face."

The minister said that society has to change and the rule of law has to be respected if accidents have to be prevented. According to government data, over 1.7 lakh people died in road accidents last year. This is about 470 deaths every day and a majority of victims are in the 18-34 years age group.

Penguin Waits Patiently As Couple Clears Path In Antarctica, Video Delights Internet 22 Dec 2024, 2:22 pm

A heartwarming video from Antarctica, showcasing a delightful encounter between a curious penguin and a thoughtful couple has gone viral on social media. In the clip, the couple unintentionally blocks a snowy pathway, forcing the penguin to wait patiently. As the couple takes in the breathtaking scenery, they remain oblivious to the penguin quietly waiting behind them. The bird waits without making a fuss, clearly expecting the couple to move aside. Notably, penguins are known for their established pathways and cautious navigation around obstacles. Once the couple notices the little creature, they kindly step aside, allowing the penguin to pass.

Sharing the video on Instagram, Ciera Ybarra wrote, "When you're too nervous to say excuse me and there is traffic on the penguin highway. Captured on the Antarctic Peninsula while on an expedition with." The text on the video read, "Who knew penguins were so polite?"

Watch the video here:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ciera Ybarra (@ciera.ybarra)

Ms Ybarra provided additional insight, explaining that the red flag in the video indicates a human-made trail designed to keep visitors away from penguin nesting areas. However, penguins often prefer the path of least resistance, leading them to veer onto the human trail.

"Penguins like the easiest route to travel, so a few of them found their way onto the human trail," she said.

The video has captured the hearts of many, showcasing the remarkable thoughtfulness and patience of these adorable penguins. One user wrote, "Of course they are. Why do you think they go around dressed so nice in their little tuxedos? Distinguished gentle-penguins"

Another commented, "Wow! Love this! That's so interesting he knew to wait & when to go."

A third said, "Aww that cute little thing. Eating my heart out of cuteness.''

A fourth added, "This just made my day." Yet another noted, "Homie has better manners than 98%of the human population.

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Benching To Love Bombing, 7 Online Dating Terms That Ruled 2024 22 Dec 2024, 1:38 pm

Modern dating has evolved into a complex landscape, complete with its own ever-expanding vocabulary designed to capture the nuances of romantic relationships in the digital age. From the first match on a dating app to navigating the ups and downs of commitment, new terms are coined almost daily to describe behaviours, trends, and situations unique to contemporary relationships. This linguistic shift reflects how technology, cultural changes, and evolving social norms have transformed the way we meet, communicate, and connect with potential partners.

In 2024, the online dating landscape introduced several terms that encapsulated emerging behaviours and trends. Here are some of the most popular and talked-about dating trends:

1. Breadcrumbing

Breadcrumbing is a popular dating trend that refers to when someone sends you occasional flirtatious messages but doesn't intend to pursue a real relationship. These messages, or "breadcrumbs," are often just enough to keep you interested and invested, but not enough to lead to any meaningful connection or commitment.

Examples of breadcrumbing include sporadic texting or messaging on social media, sending flirtatious or suggestive messages, but never following through, and making plans, but constantly cancelling or postponing. Breadcrumbing can be frustrating and confusing, leaving the person on the receiving end wondering if they're really interested or just playing games.

2. Zombieing

 This term describes a situation where someone who previously ghosted you unexpectedly reappears in your life, attempting to rekindle the connection without acknowledging their prior disappearance. This person might send a text, like a social media post, or even try to rekindle the relationship without acknowledging their prior disappearance.

The term likens this behaviour to a "zombie" rising from the dead, metaphorically representing how the person resurfaces after seeming to vanish completely. Zombieing can be frustrating and confusing for the person on the receiving end, as it often lacks a clear explanation or apology, leaving them to question the intentions behind the unexpected return.

3. Love Bombing

Love Bombing is a dating trend where someone showers their partner with overwhelming affection, compliments, gifts, and attention early in the relationship. While this can seem romantic and exciting at first, love bombing is often a manipulative tactic used to establish control or create dependency.

The "bomber" may use this excessive display of love to quickly gain the other person's trust and affection, only to later shift to more controlling or emotionally abusive behaviours once the relationship is firmly established. This stark change can leave the recipient feeling confused and emotionally vulnerable.

In 2024, the term gained prominence as people became increasingly aware of the importance of healthy boundaries and identifying red flags in relationships. Experts recommend watching for balance and consistency in a partner's actions to avoid falling into the trap of love bombing.

4. Benching

Benching is a dating trend where someone keeps another person as a "backup" option while actively pursuing other romantic interests. The "bencher" gives just enough attention to keep the other person interested, such as sporadic messages, compliments, or plans that rarely materialize, but avoid committing to a relationship or taking things to the next level.

The term draws from sports, where players sit on the bench, waiting to be called into the game. In the dating world, it reflects the sense of being sidelined while the bencher explores other opportunities. For the person being benched, this behaviour can lead to frustration, confusion, and emotional exhaustion.

5. Affordating

Affordating is a dating trend that emerged as a response to economic pressures and the rising cost of traditional dates. It focuses on planning and enjoying affordable or cost-conscious outings while still fostering meaningful connections.

Instead of extravagant dinners or pricey events, affording encourages creative, budget-friendly activities such as picnics in the park with homemade food, exploring local attractions that are free or inexpensive, like museums with discounted tickets, and cooking together at home for a cosy and personal experience.

6. Chameleoning

Chameleoning is a dating trend where someone changes or adapts their personality, interests, and behaviour to mirror their partner's preferences in an attempt to be more likeable or compatible. While this might initially seem like an effort to connect or impress, it often leads to the person losing their sense of self and authentic identity within the relationship. 

In 2024, chameleoning became a focal point in discussions about healthy dating behaviours, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and finding partners who appreciate authenticity.

7. Sober Dating

Sober Dating is a growing dating trend where individuals choose to connect and get to know each other without the influence of alcohol or other substances. With the rise of wellness culture, more people are prioritising their physical and mental health, including rethinking alcohol consumption. This approach emphasises clarity, authenticity, and intentionality in romantic interactions.

The term gained traction in 2024 as part of a broader cultural shift toward mindful living and creating more intentional romantic connections.

"Nothing Short Of Nightmare": Woman Misses Life Event, Slams Air India 22 Dec 2024, 1:36 pm

A woman has shared what she called "nothing short of a nightmare" when an Air India flight delay of 18 hours left her stranded in Italy's Milan. Due to the long delay and the subsequent hassle in booking another flight and retrieving her checked-in luggage, she said she missed a key part of her sister's wedding, and lost Rs 50,000 that she paid for a business class upgrade.

"The only reassuring person during this ordeal was Air India's manager in Milan, Preeti Singh, who promised my luggage would be sent and assured me of a refund for the Rs 50,000 I paid for the upgrade," Shivani Bazaz, a journalist based in Delhi, said in a post on X today.

"But it has been over a month, and despite countless follow-ups, I am yet to receive the refund. The delay in addressing this has shattered my trust in Air India, an airline I chose in good faith over other options," Ms Bazaz said.

She said her "nightmare" started on November 5 while traveling from Milan to Delhi. She said the reason why she shared her ordeal with the public was a small effort to hope that "no passenger should have to go through this, especially during such an important time in their life."

"... It is important because if someone like me who has access to people inside Air India has to go through this, I can't even imagine what regular passengers have to deal with on a daily basis," Ms Bazaz said.

Ms Bazaz said what was most upsetting was "the lack of accountability and empathy shown by Air India."

"I'm sharing this because I hope Air India will take this seriously, expedite my refund and improve their processes so others don't face such harrowing experiences," she said.

I was stranded at the airport overnight with:
•No lounge access
•No proper communication
•No accommodation or food provided

It was a cold night and there were children and old people suffering in a deserted airport. This is a clear violation of passenger rights.

— Shivani Bazaz (@shivanibazaz) December 22, 2024

Air India's official X handles responded to her posts.

"Dear Ms. Bazaz, we truly apologize for the inconvenience you've experienced. Kindly share your booking details via DM. We will get this reviewed on priority," Air India said.

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Vicky Kaushal’s Emotional Speech Moves Karan Aujla To Tears; ‘I Want You To Know…’ | Viral Video 22 Dec 2024, 11:12 am

Allu Arjun Pleads To Fans Amid Fresh Allegations In Pushpa 2 Stampede Case: ‘Strong Action Will Be Taken If…’ 22 Dec 2024, 11:10 am

India’s IPO Boom: Record Rs 1.6 Lakh Crore Raised In 2024, Bigger Plans In 2025 22 Dec 2024, 10:53 am

Delhi woman claims Ola driver stopped cab for strangers, SOS button did not work 22 Dec 2024, 10:52 am

Ola S1 Pro Sona unveiled, 4,000 Ola stores to open on December 25 22 Dec 2024, 10:41 am

FPIs Pull Out Equities Worth Rs 976 Crore This Week, Check Top Reasons 22 Dec 2024, 10:34 am

18 Secret Santa gift ideas under Rs 500 for colleagues 22 Dec 2024, 10:31 am

Isha Ambani twins with daughter Aadiya Shakti 22 Dec 2024, 10:30 am

Salman Khan Reveals How Honey Singh Crafted Rap For Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan: 'He Made It In 30 Minutes' 22 Dec 2024, 10:26 am

BJP's Navya Haridas Challenges Priyanka Gandhi's Election From Wayanad 22 Dec 2024, 10:21 am

L-G Flags 'Hellish' Living Conditions After Ground Visits In Parts Of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal Responds 22 Dec 2024, 10:12 am

Blake Lively Sues 'It Ends With Us' Director Justin Baldoni Over Sexual Harassment Claims | N18G 22 Dec 2024, 10:06 am

Penguin politely waits for couple to move aside. Video has 141 million views 22 Dec 2024, 10:05 am

Kejriwal Announces Doorstep Registration For Women, Elderly Welfare Schemes Starting Tomorrow 22 Dec 2024, 9:52 am

​5 parenting tips from Sudha Murthy for modern parents​ 22 Dec 2024, 9:30 am

Are Triptii Dimri And Sam Merchant Vacationing Together In The Cotswolds? Check Out These Clues 22 Dec 2024, 9:29 am

Rashmika Mandanna Wishes Her 'Boyfriend' On His Birthday, But It's Not Vijay Deverakonda 22 Dec 2024, 9:27 am

Zakir Hussain's Family Shares First Instagram Post After His Death: 'Always Together in Love' 22 Dec 2024, 9:01 am

Video of Oreo cookies' resistance to fire goes viral 22 Dec 2024, 9:00 am

‘We Can Bury Anyone’: SHOCKING Texts Reveal How Justin Baldoni Allegedly Targeted Blake Lively 22 Dec 2024, 8:46 am

What Happened Between Blake Lively And Justin Baldoni? A Full Breakdown Of The 'It Ends With Us' Feud 22 Dec 2024, 8:43 am

What's Getting Cheaper And Costlier After GST Council Meeting? Check Full List 22 Dec 2024, 8:42 am

Who Is Justin Baldoni, Blake Lively's It Ends With Us Co-star Facing Sexual Harassment Allegations? 22 Dec 2024, 8:36 am

Indians are chasing luxury travel like never before. What's driving this shift? 22 Dec 2024, 8:33 am

AI Training Drives Higher Salaries, HRs Look Specific Skills For Hiring: Report 22 Dec 2024, 8:25 am

Ananya Panday, Janhvi Kapoor, Shanaya Kapoor Turn Heads In Chic Dresses At NMACC Arts Cafe Launch 22 Dec 2024, 8:09 am

Katrina Kaif And Vicky Kaushal Look Effortlessly Chic As They Head Out Of Mumbai, Video Goes Viral 22 Dec 2024, 8:09 am

Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan & Suhana Khan Slay In Black As They Attend NMACC Arts Cafe Launch 22 Dec 2024, 8:06 am

Nita Ambani, Isha Ambani, Radhika Merchant, Shloka Mehta Redefine Elegance With Their Iconic Style 22 Dec 2024, 7:57 am

Holiday Week Ahead: Global Trends And FIIs' Moves To Drive Stock Market Sentiment 22 Dec 2024, 7:34 am

Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna Begin Shooting For Horror Comedy Thama? Here’s What We Know 22 Dec 2024, 7:31 am

Colleen Hoover BREAKS Silence On Blake Lively's Claims Against Justin: 'You Have Been Nothing But...' 22 Dec 2024, 7:19 am

Pushpa 2's Rashmika Mandanna On Controversial Peelings Dance Song: 'I Wasn’t Comfortable Initially' 22 Dec 2024, 6:52 am

Baby John: Varun Dhawan Impresses With Intense Action In Beast Mode Track, Fans Say ‘Best Song’ | Watch 22 Dec 2024, 6:43 am

Moushumi Chatterjee Hints Amitabh Bachchan Changed After Success: 'When You Succeed, You Behave...' 22 Dec 2024, 6:25 am

Rahul Gandhi Summoned Over Economy Survey Remark Bareilly District Court | Congress News Today 22 Dec 2024, 6:00 am

Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri And Sonam Bajwa Hop On Viral Kaali Activa Trend; Watch Viral Video 22 Dec 2024, 5:52 am

Shah Rukh Khan Tells Gauri Khan 'Idhar Dekho', Helps Paparazzi To Get The Perfect Photos | Watch 22 Dec 2024, 5:48 am

Game Changer Song Dhop Featuring Kiara Advani And Ram Charan Released, Fans React | Watch 22 Dec 2024, 5:40 am

Income Tax Changes In 2024: Key Reforms That Redefined Personal Finance In India 22 Dec 2024, 5:12 am

'Kis Ke Liye?': Akash Ambani Asks As Paps Congratulates Ambani Family; Poses With Shloka, Nita Ambani 22 Dec 2024, 5:09 am

Parineeti Chopra Sings ‘Pehle Lalkare Naal’ With Karan Aujla At Live Concert, Video Goes Viral | Watch 22 Dec 2024, 4:51 am

Dharmendra Says Sunny Deol, Bobby Did Not Have Affairs: 'Mere Time Pe Heroines Peeche Aati...' 22 Dec 2024, 4:17 am

Ryan Reynolds Did THIS With Justin Baldoni Months Before Blake Lively's Sexual Harassment Claims | Report 22 Dec 2024, 3:59 am

Gold Rate Rises In India: Check Latest 22, 24 Carat Price In Your City On December 22 22 Dec 2024, 3:58 am

Saba Pataudi Shares ‘Memories Of December’ Featuring Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor And Others, Fans React 22 Dec 2024, 3:24 am

Petrol, Diesel Fresh Prices Announced: Check Rates In Your City On December 22 22 Dec 2024, 3:15 am

Justin Baldoni Dropped By His Talent Agency After Blake Lively Sexual Harassment Claims 22 Dec 2024, 3:06 am

Arhaan Khan Spotted With Arpita And Nirvaan At Karan Aujla’s Live Concert, Video Goes Viral | Watch 22 Dec 2024, 2:55 am

AP Dhillon Shares Cryptic Note On Getting 'Hate' After Diljit Dosanjh Claims He Never Blocked Him 22 Dec 2024, 2:37 am

Vicky Kaushal, Karan Aujla Set The Stage On Fire With Their Performance On Song Tauba Tauba | Watch 22 Dec 2024, 2:19 am

Diljit Dosanjh SLAMS AP Dhillon After Latter Claims He's Has Blocked Him: 'My Issues Can Be With...' 22 Dec 2024, 2:09 am

Court issues notice to Rajasthan government, Centre over Jaipur LPG tanker blast 21 Dec 2024, 8:59 pm

Aishwarya Rai Escorts Her Mother To Car As Abhishek Bachchan Appears To Keep Distance | Watch 21 Dec 2024, 7:29 pm

Mufasa Box Office Collection Day 1: Shah Rukh Khan's Hindi Version Leads; Film Collects Rs 9 Cr 21 Dec 2024, 6:33 pm

Shaping Your Body, But at What Cost? 21 Dec 2024, 6:14 pm

GST Council Approves 'Track And Trace Mechanism' To Curb Evasion 21 Dec 2024, 5:44 pm

Sports 21 Dec 2024, 5:29 pm

'Amit Shah Is Like Someone Bitten By Rabid Dog': Priyank Kharge Amid Ambedkar Row 21 Dec 2024, 5:16 pm

Fadnavis Keeps Home Ministry, Shinde Gets Urban Development In New Maharashtra Cabinet 21 Dec 2024, 5:13 pm

Diljit Dosanjh Drops Baby's Photo From Mumbai Show; Katrina Kaif Calls Vicky Kaushal 'Adjusting' Over Bathroom Space 21 Dec 2024, 4:31 pm

Maharashtra cabinet portfolios announced 21 Dec 2024, 4:18 pm

Maharashtra cabinet portfolios announced 21 Dec 2024, 4:18 pm

Blake Lively Sues 'It Ends With Us' Co-Star Justin Baldoni for Sexual Harassment and Smear Campaign 21 Dec 2024, 4:10 pm

Devotee's iPhone dropped into donation box declared temple property in Tamil Nadu 21 Dec 2024, 4:06 pm

Devotee's iPhone dropped into donation box declared temple property in Tamil Nadu 21 Dec 2024, 4:06 pm

'Character Assassination': Allu Arjun Responds To Telangana Assembly Blame Game Over Pushpa 2 Stampede 21 Dec 2024, 3:57 pm

'Character Assassination': Allu Arjun Responds To Telangana Assembly Blame Game Over Pushpa 2 Stampede 21 Dec 2024, 3:57 pm

Kareena Kapoor And Saif Ali Khan Host Superhero-Themed Party For Taimur’s Birthday, Jeh Rocks Batman Tattoo 21 Dec 2024, 3:44 pm

'One Congress Leader Forcing Oppn MPs To Toe Negative Line': Kiren Rijiju Slams Rahul Gandhi | Exclusive 21 Dec 2024, 3:40 pm

Arjun Kapoor Says He Opens Up To Sister Janhvi Kapoor: 'Things That I Never Confessed To My Own Self' 21 Dec 2024, 3:12 pm

Hardik Pandya And Pankhuri Sharma Fly Out Of City With The Kids | WATCH 21 Dec 2024, 3:12 pm

Where Bollywood Royalty Studies: Star Kids at Dhirubhai Ambani International School 21 Dec 2024, 2:56 pm

High Court raps Maharashtra government for deteriorating air quality in Mumbai 21 Dec 2024, 2:33 pm

Tilda Swinton, Julianne Moore Discuss Their Roles In Pedro Almodóvar's ‘The Room Next Door’ | N18G 21 Dec 2024, 2:19 pm

After Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2 Premiere That Claimed Woman's Life, Telangana Bans Actor Visits And Benefit Shows 21 Dec 2024, 2:15 pm

When At Diljit Dosanjh’s Concert, Dance Like Sonam Bajwa 21 Dec 2024, 2:12 pm

Aamir Khan And Nana Patekar Join Hands For Special Podcast On Vanvaas 21 Dec 2024, 2:04 pm

Shilpa Shetty's Birthday Wish For ‘Forever Hero’ Govinda Is Superhit 21 Dec 2024, 2:02 pm

CBFC Censors Lal Bahadur Shastri and Phule References in Varun Dhawan’s Baby John; Edits Violent Scenes 21 Dec 2024, 1:34 pm

Sonakshi Sinha’s Sun-kissed Picture Will Make You Stop And Stare 21 Dec 2024, 1:29 pm

Modi Has Justified ‘Kashi Ka Beta’ Tag, Say Residents As PM Marks 10 Years As Varanasi MP 21 Dec 2024, 1:26 pm

Chris Martin Calls Dakota Johnson One Of His ‘Best Friends’ Amid Breakup Rumours 21 Dec 2024, 1:18 pm

Varun Dhawan Says 'Powerful Man's Wife' Thought He'd Leave Family For Her: 'Someone Talked To Her Using My Name' 21 Dec 2024, 1:16 pm

Roundtable 2024: Konkona Sensharma, Rasika, Aditi Rao, Nitanshi & Pratibha Discuss Movies & MORE 21 Dec 2024, 12:48 pm

Ariana Grande Shuts Down Rumours About Her 2025 Musical Tour: ‘Acting Is Feeling Like Home’ 21 Dec 2024, 12:37 pm

Salman Khan's Rumoured Girlfriend Iulia Vantur Shares A Special Birthday Wish For Sohail Khan 21 Dec 2024, 12:32 pm

Jennifer Lopez Talks About Motherhood And Her Vulnerabilities: ‘You Always Want To Put Your Best Foot Forward' 21 Dec 2024, 12:32 pm

Is Keerthy Suresh Quitting Films After Marriage? Here’s What We Know About The Rumors? 21 Dec 2024, 12:31 pm

RajKummar Rao Praises Ali Fazal-Richa Chadha’s Girls Will Be Girls: 'It Stays With You' 21 Dec 2024, 12:28 pm

Sonu Sood, In Kolkata For Fateh Promotions, Visits Coffee House And Rides Yellow Taxi 21 Dec 2024, 12:28 pm

Ambedkar Row: Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge Mocks Amit Shah, Says He Is Bitten By A Rabid Dog 21 Dec 2024, 12:26 pm

GST Council Meeting Live Updates: Insurance Tax Issue Deferred, Lower 5% GST On Fortified Rice Kernel, No Tax On Used EV Sold Between Individuals 21 Dec 2024, 12:25 pm

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Talks To CNN News18 About The Recent Winter Parliament Session | News18 21 Dec 2024, 12:24 pm

Shruti Haasan Walked Out Of Adivi Sesh's Dacoit Because Of 'Over-Involvement Of Co-Star'? What We Know 21 Dec 2024, 12:19 pm

Gauahar Khan Adds Swanky New Car To Her Fleet: 'Kuch Apna Sa Hai' 21 Dec 2024, 11:55 am

Varun Dhawan Confirms Alia Bhatt And His Daughters’ First Meeting: 'Lara and Raha Have Met’ 21 Dec 2024, 11:54 am

Row erupts as Centre tweaks poll rules to curb public scrutiny of video records 21 Dec 2024, 11:49 am

Dalljiet Kaur Prioritises Son Jaydon Over Work Schedules: 'He Really Needs Me' 21 Dec 2024, 11:44 am

Varun Dhawan Wants His Daughter Lara To Watch THIS Film First: 'It's A Very Easy Watch For Her To See' 21 Dec 2024, 11:37 am

Was Ellen DeGeneres Invited To Sean 'Diddy' Combs' Parties? Read On 21 Dec 2024, 11:21 am

Nick Cannon On Ex-Wife Mariah Carey’s Viral 'Autograph Moment' With Rihanna: 'That Was Hot' 21 Dec 2024, 11:15 am

Zakir Hussain (1951-2024) | He gave the best to the world 21 Dec 2024, 11:15 am

Shah Rukh Khan's Jawan Co-star Ridhi Dogra On How She Dealt With Criticism 21 Dec 2024, 11:03 am

Jennifer Grey Admits She Was Nervous About Dirty Dancing: 'Scenes Quite Explicit' 21 Dec 2024, 11:03 am

Jennifer Lopez Dragged Into $400 Million Sexual Assault Lawsuit Against Diddy Combs, Will She Testify? 21 Dec 2024, 11:01 am

'Reply To BJP': Amid Ambedkar Row, Arvind Kejriwal Announces Scholarship Scheme For Dalit Students 21 Dec 2024, 10:55 am

Arjun Kapoor Says Salman Khan Is NOT A Bully, Reveals He Has A Warm Side: 'You'll Have To Allow It To...' 21 Dec 2024, 10:39 am

Katrina Kaif Reveals Vicky Kaushal’s Advice On Balancing Work And Personal Life: 'Put Down The Phone' 21 Dec 2024, 10:31 am

Love Scout New Teaser: Han Ji Min, Lee Jun Hyuk Hilariously Struggle To Hide Their Office Romance 21 Dec 2024, 10:21 am

NewJeans Star Reported As Illegal Immigrant Amid Contract Dispute With ADOR 21 Dec 2024, 10:20 am

Nicole Kidman Opens Up About Her Date Nights With Keith Urban 21 Dec 2024, 10:20 am

Kehlani Discusses Making Of Her Grammy 2025 Runner 'Crash'| N18G 21 Dec 2024, 10:07 am

Diljit Dosanjh Finds A Solution To The Advisory Against Calling Children On His Concert Stage | Watch 21 Dec 2024, 10:02 am

Abhijeet Bhattacharya Recalls When RD Burman Was 'Jobless For 5 Years': 'People Start To Get Troubled When...' 21 Dec 2024, 9:44 am

Nana Patekar Defends Akshay Kumar, Cites Marlon Brando’s Example: 'So What If He Reads Off A Board?' 21 Dec 2024, 9:41 am

Rescene Gets Featured On Grammys' Top 10 K-Pop Songs 2024 List, Fans Are Elated 21 Dec 2024, 9:40 am

Katrina Kaif Calls Vicky Kaushal 'Adjusting' Over Bathroom Space, Reveals Mom-In-Law's Homemade Hair Oil 21 Dec 2024, 9:25 am

Daler Mehndi To Perform At ITA Awards 2024, Catch His Hit Numbers On December 31 21 Dec 2024, 9:21 am

CT Ravi Exclusive | Karnataka Assembly Ruckus: BJP MLC CT Ravi Granted Interim Bail | News18 21 Dec 2024, 9:21 am

Britney Spears Addresses Backlash Over Dance Video: 'Sick Of People Saying Mean Things' 21 Dec 2024, 9:16 am

GST Council Postpones Decision On Life, Health Insurance Rate Cut; GoM To Meet In January 21 Dec 2024, 9:14 am

LG vs AAP: Delhi CM Atishi Reacts, Asks Ed To Make Sanction Copy Public | English News | News18 21 Dec 2024, 9:13 am

Bangladesh: 1 Arrested After Miscreants Attacked 3 Hindu Temples, Vandalised 8 Idols, Says Report 21 Dec 2024, 9:07 am

Aamir Khan Arrives For A Podcast Shoot With Nana Patekar For Vanvaas Promotions | WATCH 21 Dec 2024, 9:07 am

G-Dragon's Thoughtful Gifts For Fans At Pre-Recording Sessions Win Hearts 21 Dec 2024, 9:01 am

Arjun Kapoor Opens Up About Mother Mona Shourie's Death: 'She Will Never Be...' 21 Dec 2024, 8:51 am

Kejriwal Alleges ‘Conspiracy’ To Declare Purvanchali Voters As Rohingyas:‘Don’t Show Your Voter ID’ 21 Dec 2024, 8:48 am

Did Delhi L-G Allow ED To Prosecute Arvind Kejriwal? Row Erupts Over Excise Policy Case Ahead Of Polls 21 Dec 2024, 8:42 am

Luxury Cars To Lavish Homes: A Glimpse Into Tamannaah Bhatia’s Rs 120-Crore Fortune 21 Dec 2024, 8:41 am

Kannada Star Darshan Visits Mysuru, Meets Mother After Bail In Renukaswamy Murder Case 21 Dec 2024, 8:41 am

Mandira Bedi Talks About Sexism, Says She Felt Disrespected By Cricketers During 2003 World Cup: 'I'd Cry' 21 Dec 2024, 8:30 am

Abhijeet Bhattacharya Claims Shah Rukh Khan’s Peers Called Him Hakla: 'But Our Songs Defined Bollywood' 21 Dec 2024, 8:29 am

How L-G Nod To Prosecute Arvind Kejriwal Could Impact Delhi Election Game 21 Dec 2024, 8:19 am

Varun Dhawan Reveals He Personally Performed All Stunts For Baby John: 'Tough But Fulfilling Journey' 21 Dec 2024, 7:44 am

Salman Khan, Bobby Deol, Arhaan Khan & Many More Attend Sohail Khan's Birthday Bash I WATCH 21 Dec 2024, 7:38 am

Rashmika Mandanna Breaks The Internet With Her Latest Traditional Look 21 Dec 2024, 7:14 am

Pankaj Tripathi Reflects On Stree 2's Box Office Success: 'Aapka Dimag Kharab Nahi Hona Chahiye' 21 Dec 2024, 7:12 am

TXT Singer Taehyun’s Reaction After Getting Paycheck Wins Hearts: ‘He’s Just Like Us’ 21 Dec 2024, 7:12 am

Trouble For Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Lt Governor Allows Probe Agency To Prosecute Him | News18 21 Dec 2024, 7:09 am

Aishwarya Rai's Mother Makes A Rare Appearance As She Arrives To Watch Aaradhya's Performance 21 Dec 2024, 7:08 am

Shalini Passi To Join Laughter Chefs Season 2? What We Know 21 Dec 2024, 7:05 am

Hina Khan Celebrates December In Abu Dhabi, Shares Stylish Photos From Her Vacation 21 Dec 2024, 7:05 am

Samajwadi Party calls for statewide agitation today 21 Dec 2024, 6:58 am

National Energy Conservation Week: Green Building Designs, Energy-Saving Appliances Take Center Stage 21 Dec 2024, 6:56 am

Gold Prices Jump In India: Check Latest 24-Carat Rate In Your City On December 21 21 Dec 2024, 6:55 am

Delhi Polls | Arvind Kejriwal Hits Back at BJP; Slams JP Nadda’s Remark | Delhi Elections 2025 21 Dec 2024, 6:51 am

Google Cut 10% Jobs In Managerial Roles, Confirms Sundar Pichai In Internal Meeting 21 Dec 2024, 6:45 am

Shalini Passi On Meeting Salman Khan In Bigg Boss 18: ‘He Has A Positive Energy' 21 Dec 2024, 6:35 am

Abhijeet Bhattacharya Opens Up About Rift With Shah Rukh Khan 21 Dec 2024, 6:33 am

It's A Wrap For Stranger Things Season 5: Noah Schnapp, Finn Wolfhard Share BTS Moments 21 Dec 2024, 6:29 am

Malaika Arora's One-line Advice On Relationship: 'Effort Is The Oxygen Of Love' 21 Dec 2024, 6:28 am

Fresh Reports Of Idol Vandalism In Bangladesh, 3 Hindu Temples Targeted | Bangladesh News | News18 21 Dec 2024, 6:23 am

Dakota Johnson And Josh Hartnett Set To Join Anne Hathaway For Verity Film Adaptation 21 Dec 2024, 6:17 am

At Sohail Khan's Birthday Bash, Bobby Deol's Salt-and-pepper Look Steals The Show 21 Dec 2024, 6:16 am

Amitabh Bachchan Gets Emotional, Remembers Mother Teji On Death Anniversary: 'Right Before My Eyes...' 21 Dec 2024, 6:08 am

Genelia D'Souza Takes A Dig At Sonam Kapoor's 'These People' Remark: 'Jealousy Can Be Seen...' 21 Dec 2024, 6:00 am

"Indians Take Pride in Embarrassing Themselves": Thailand Flight Video Questions Travel Etiquette 21 Dec 2024, 5:47 am

Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light Makes It To Barack Obama's Favourite Films Of 2024 21 Dec 2024, 5:35 am

Alisha Praveen OUSTED From Anupamaa, Shocked Actress Says 'I Have No Clue Why I Am Replaced' 21 Dec 2024, 5:33 am

Kerala High Court says no to Sunburn festival in landslide-hit Wayanad 21 Dec 2024, 5:29 am

Director Hwang Dong Hyuk Defends Casting Park Sung Hoon As Trans Character In Squid Game 2 21 Dec 2024, 4:57 am

Director Hwang Dong Hyuk Defends Casting Park Sung Hoon As Trans Character In Squid Game 2 21 Dec 2024, 4:54 am

Pushpa 2 To Be Removed From Theatres Because Of Varun Dhawan's Baby John? Everything You Must Know 21 Dec 2024, 4:50 am

Fans Catch A Glimpse Of Salman Khan As He Arrives To Celebrate Sohail Khan's Birthday 21 Dec 2024, 4:45 am