Global Business News
BJP candidate R Sreelekha won from the Sasthamangalam division in the Thiruvananthapuram corporation in a big boost for the NDA. R Sreelekha is the first woman IPS officer who retired as DGP in 2020 and later joined the BJP. She earned the title of 'Raid Sreelekha' or her high-visibility operations when she was on deputation with the CBI.
Trump says he is leaning toward Warsh or Hassett to lead the Fed: Reports
Amidst ongoing discussions about fiscal policy, President Donald Trump has identified two potential candidates for the role of Federal Reserve chair. His stance is clear; he wants to be part of the conversation around interest rate decisions, having openly challenged the existing policies of the Fed.
Karnataka's sole aim is to convert Tamil Nadu into desert through Mekedatu, says AIADMK
AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami alleges Karnataka's Congress government plans to make Tamil Nadu a desert by building the Mekedatu dam. He criticizes Tamil Nadu's DMK government for not strongly defending the state's rights. Tamil Nadu has filed review petitions and pleas regarding the project's detrimental impact. The Mekedatu project aims to supply water to Bengaluru and generate power.
Geopolitical risks emerge as top boardroom concerns for Indian companies: Report
Geopolitical instability is the top future risk for Indian businesses. Nearly half of top executives see it as the biggest threat in the next five years. Cyberattacks and data breaches are also major board-level concerns. Companies face talent and digital capability gaps. Indian firms are in an era of chronic, interconnected risks.
Mandir-Masjid: How competitive faith politics recasting Bengal's 2026 poll battle
As West Bengal gears up for its elections, a notable uptick in religious symbolism is evident. Political rallies are increasingly hosted at temples and mosques, diverting attention from critical issues like job creation and migration challenges. This shift is amplifying communal differences, with leaders strategically using religious identity to cement their voter appeal.
A 12-year-old boy from Lethbridge, Alberta, has pleaded guilty to attempting to murder his seven-year-old brother. The attack, which involved multiple stab wounds, was reportedly premeditated and influenced by violent online content. The younger sibling sustained severe injuries. The older boy will be sentenced under a rehabilitative custody and supervision order, addressing significant mental health challenges.
The Untold Story of Akshay Kumars Stunts and the Discipline Behind Them
Our planet Earth and Mercury have invisible tails stretching millions of kilometres. These cosmic tails are real phenomena. Mercury's tail glows orange due to sodium atoms. Earth's magnetotail is formed by its magnetic field. It shields us from solar wind. These tails offer insights into planetary interactions and space weather.
Delhi AQI in very poor category as city sees mild, partly cloudy weather
Delhi woke to partly cloudy skies on December 13, 2025. Air quality remained a concern, hovering in the 'very poor' category. Vehicular emissions and stagnant weather contributed to pollution. Advisories were issued for limited outdoor exposure. Air quality is expected to remain poor and may worsen. Several areas recorded 'very poor' and 'severe' AQI readings.
China's Wang Yi seeks deeper oil and gas ties with UAE on Middle East tour
China's Wang Yi seeks deeper oil and gas ties with UAE on Middle East tour
Canada achieved its first trade surplus since the US trade war began, with September exports soaring and imports declining. This positive shift, driven by strong non-US market performance and diversification efforts, signals economic resilience. The Bank of Canada maintained its interest rate, deeming it appropriate for growth and stability, while a growing 'Buy Canadian' sentiment reflects consumer sentiment.
7 healthy winter morning juices to boost immunity and warm your body
Football star Lionel Messi arrived at Kolkata as a part of his four-city GOAT India Tour, instantly creating a frenzy among fans. A newlywed couple, who got married last Friday, cancelled their honeymoon to see Messi and the husband said watching the GOAT player is a more important event than a honeymoon.
Quote of the Day by Hugh Jackman: Ive always felt that if you back down from a fear
Actor Hugh Jackman believes facing fears is crucial. He chooses challenges that scare him most. The fear of regret motivates him more than the fear itself. This approach fuels his decisions and drives him forward. Jackman's career spans superhero roles, dramas, and stage performances. He has received numerous awards for his work.
5 Simple Food Pairings That Work Smarter for Your Body by Dr. Saurabh Sethi
A recent Instagram reel by Dr. Saurabh Sethi of simple food pairings that can improve our everyday diet has gained everybody's attention. These combinations arent complicated; they're everyday ingredients most households already have. What surprised viewers is how small changes can make a meaningful difference in our health.
Pakistan, 7 other Muslim nations back UNRWA; say its role in Gaza 'irreplaceable'
Eight leading Muslim nations, including Pakistan, have voiced strong backing for the UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees, deeming its role in Gaza irreplaceable amidst a severe humanitarian crisis. These foreign ministers reaffirmed UNRWA's indispensable function in safeguarding Palestinian refugees' rights and well-being, highlighting its crucial delivery of humanitarian aid.
Congress takes swipe at PM over India not being part of US-led 'Pax Silica' grouping
Congress said Indias exclusion from the US-led Pax Silica silicon supply chain initiative reflects a downturn in Trump-Modi ties, calling it a missed strategic opportunity. Jairam Ramesh mocked Modis claims of warm ties, despite ongoing trade talks and diplomatic engagement.
Makhana Board holds first meeting; Rs 476-crore scheme rolled out for development of makhana sector
A significant scheme worth Rs 476.03 crore has been approved for Makhana development. This initiative will span from 2025-26 to 2030-31. The plan focuses on research, quality seeds, farmer training, and improved marketing. The National Makhana Board has begun implementation. This aims for coordinated, scientific, and market-oriented growth of the Makhana sector across India.
Land deal row: Revenue officials should have refused faulty registrations, says Ajit Pawar
Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said officials should have refused illegal land deal registrations, amid scrutiny of a Pune sale involving his sons firm. He denied a legislative amendment was meant to protect Parth Pawar, stressing accountability lay with registering authorities, not lawmakers.
7 weight loss hacks you need to add in your morning routine
Garena Free Fire MAX redeem codes today December 13: Unlock free skins, weapons and cool rewards
Garena has released fresh Free Fire MAX redeem codes for December 13, offering players a chance to unlock exclusive in-game rewards like weapons and skins for free. These limited-time alphanumeric codes can be redeemed on the official Garena website, with rewards delivered to the in-game mailbox within 24 hours.
'Hefty' price for Messi event ticket; West Bengal Governor seeks report from government
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has sought a detailed report from the state government regarding arrangements for Lionel Messi's Kolkata program. This comes after football enthusiasts complained about unaffordable ticket prices preventing them from seeing the star. The governor questioned the state's role and why common people are barred from witnessing the event.
Canada's first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, was instrumental in the nation's 1867 Confederation and westward expansion, notably the Canadian Pacific Railway. His long tenure shaped early governance and institutions. However, his legacy is complicated by policies affecting Indigenous peoples. A quote attributed to him stresses unity for common goals before considering individual rewards.
Trumps 'illegal' tariffs on India challenged as US lawmakers move to end emergency duties
Trump India Tariffs: Democratic lawmakers have introduced a resolution to terminate the national emergency used by President Trump to impose steep tariffs on Indian imports. They argue these illegal tariffs abuse executive power, damage a key strategic partnership, and harm American workers and consumers. The move aims to restore Congress's constitutional authority over trade and curb the misuse of emergency powers.
GST reforms may reduce retail inflation by 35 basis points in 2025-26: SBI report
Retail inflation in India has experienced a dip thanks to adjustments in GST rates, with SBI Research forecasting this positive trend ahead. However, a shift in inflation is anticipated around 2025-26. In the meantime, the Reserve Bank of India is expected to keep interest rates stable. Meanwhile, Kerala remains notable for its elevated inflation rates.
North Korea acknowledges its troops cleared mines for Russia
North Korea sent troops to clear mines in Russia's Kursk region earlier this year, leader Kim Jong Un said in a speech carried on Saturday by state media, a rare acknowledgement by Pyongyang of the deadly tasks assigned to its deployed soldiers. North Korea has sent thousands of troops to support Russia's nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine, according to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies.
'No big deal': Trump dismisses newly released photos with Epstein, says 'everybody knows this man'
Kerala Civics Polls Result 2025: The counting of votes for Kerala local body elections started at 8 am today. The State Election Commission (SEC) said the final results are likely to be declared by Saturday afternoon. Early trends show LDF extending lead in 136 gram panchayats and NDA losing steam after first hour of vote counting
Geminids Meteor Shower 2025: Bright yellow fireballs streak across skies around the globe in the popular Geminids meteor shower will lighten the skies on December 13 and 14 this year. According to NASA, the Geminids meteor shower, which peaks during mid-December each year, is considered to be one of the best and most reliable annual meteor showers. The Geminids are bright and fast meteors and tend to be yellow in color.
Political landscape heats up in Bangladesh ahead of elections
In the upcoming election, the ailing former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia's BNP are emerging as the main political force. Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, the country's largest Islamist party, is also a significant contender in the election.
Pakistans ties with Nordic states touch new low as Norway envoy served demarche
This would be the first time in recent years that Pakistan has served a demarche to an European envoy. European envoys are generally given red carpet welcome and treated with care by Islamabad given its financial dependence on Europe through GSP Plus and other schemes. Norway hosts sizeable number of Pakistani nationals.
India-EU FTA nears completion: CTA Apparels calls it game-changer for apparel industry
India's apparel sector anticipates a significant boost from the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. Negotiations are progressing positively, aiming to reduce import duties on Indian garments in the European Union. This move is projected to increase exports by 20-25% in the coming years. The agreement will foster stable investment and strengthen India's position in premium European markets.
Fighting continues between Thailand, Cambodia after Trump claim of ceasefire
Cambodia stated Thai forces continued bombing Saturday morning, hours after US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire. Thailand countered, accusing Cambodia of violations. Trump had claimed a ceasefire was agreed upon Friday night. However, Cambodian and Thai leaders did not confirm this. Fighting has intensified along the disputed border since Monday.
US briefly withheld some intelligence from Israel during Biden era
America briefly halted sharing vital intelligence with Israel. This action stemmed from concerns over civilian casualties and alleged mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners. The US sought assurances that Israel would adhere to the laws of war. Intelligence sharing resumed after Israel provided these assurances. This move highlights significant tensions between the two allies.
US plan sees Ukraine joining EU in 2027, official tells AFP
A new US plan suggests Ukraine could join the European Union by January 2027. This proposal also includes Ukraine ceding land to Russia. European nations and Ukraine are seeking security guarantees before any territorial talks. The United States reportedly has influence to sway opposition to Ukraine's EU membership. Discussions are ongoing regarding the plan's details.
Trump's order targeting state AI laws faces political and legal hurdles
President Trump's order to challenge state AI laws faces significant opposition. States aim to protect their regulatory rights. The administration's move to block federal funding for states with AI laws is also contested. Legal experts express doubts about the order's enforceability. Republican governors are also voicing concerns about federal overreach.
Trump wears cowboy hat gifted by Miracle on Ice hockey team, jokes with legends at Oval Office
US president's new Air Force One jet from Boeing delayed again
The United States Air Force faces another year-long delay for its new Air Force One jets. Boeing now expects to deliver the first of two specialized 747-8 aircraft by mid-2028. This pushes the program four years behind schedule. The project's cost has now exceeded $5 billion.
Trump sued by preservationists seeking reviews and congressional approval for ballroom project
Preservationists have filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump. They seek to halt his White House ballroom project. The group wants multiple independent reviews and congressional approval. The project has already seen the East Wing demolished. The lawsuit argues against bypassing required reviews and public input. The White House maintains the President has legal authority to renovate the residence.
Speaker to examine e-cigarette allegations in Lok Sabha, says Congress MP Tariq Anwar
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will investigate claims of e-cigarette use within Parliament. BJP MP Anurag Thakur alleged a TMC MP smoked an e-cigarette in the House. The Speaker stated no permission was granted and action will follow if violations are proven. E-cigarettes are banned nationwide. The matter is under the Speaker's purview for factual verification.
US lifts sanctions on Brazil judge targeted by Trump
America has lifted sanctions on a top Brazilian judge. This move comes after a shift in US policy towards Brazil. President Lula da Silva welcomed the decision, stating he discussed it with President Trump. The judge called it a win for Brazil's democracy. This development follows Brazil's lower house voting to shorten sentences for those convicted of anti-democratic acts.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf unveils new 23-member political committee, excludes ex-KP CM Gandapur
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has formed a new 23-member political committee. Imran Khan directed the formation of this top decision-making body. Key leaders like Gohar Ali Khan and Salman Akram Raja are included. Notably, former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur is absent from the new structure. The committee will shape party policies and guidelines for parliamentary wings.
King Charles the Third has shared positive news about his cancer recovery. His treatment will be reduced next year. This milestone comes after early diagnosis and effective medical intervention. Buckingham Palace confirmed his excellent response to treatment. Doctors now advise a precautionary phase. This marks a significant step in his ongoing recovery journey.
College football's top individual award will be presented on Saturday, December 13, 2025. The Heisman Trophy ceremony airs at 7 p.m. ET. Fans can watch live on ABC. Streaming is available via the ESPN App and the NCAA football hub. Fubo also offers a free trial. The winner of the 91st Heisman Trophy will be revealed in New York City.
Landman Season 2 Episode 5 releases on December 14, 2025, streaming on Paramount+. New episodes air weekly on Sundays. Learn Landman Season 2 Episode 5 release time, schedule, how to watch, runtime, and what to expect from the story. Global timings and subscription details are included.
Hailee Steinfeld pregnant: Actress expecting first child with NFL star Josh Allen
Actress Hailee Steinfeld is expecting her first child with husband Josh Allen. She revealed the happy news on her 29th birthday through a personal Substack post. The couple, married since May, shared a video showing Allen kissing Steinfeld's baby bump. Pregnancy rumors had been circulating for weeks after a red carpet appearance.
One Punch Man Season 3 Episode 10 release date, time and how to watch are now confirmed. The episode continues the events of Episode 9 and sets up major battles. This explainer covers release details, platforms, and story progress.
US set to seize more tankers off Venezuela coast; Is Trump coming for Maduro? Days numbered?
'Minnesota just tip of spear: Whistleblower warns MASSIVE Somali fraud ring now emerging in Ohio
Russian presence in Donbas even after truce: Kremlin
Moscow will give its blessing to a ceasefire only after Ukraine's forces have withdrawn from the front line, Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov said in comments published Friday in Russian business daily Kommersant.
CCEA clears 100% FDI in insurance
The government has approved a new bill allowing 100 percent foreign investment in the insurance sector. This move aims to boost growth and improve insurance coverage across India. Companies must invest all premiums within the country. The bill also permits a single entity to offer life, general, and health insurance.
Oracle denies report on OpenAI data center delays but stocks crash continues
Oracle shares are up just 13 per cent now for the year, having erased all the gains from a 36 per cent jump in September, when it reported a massive backlog of over $450 billion mostly tied to OpenAI.
Woman married to Pakistani national, 3 others held in Assam over suspicious financial transactions
Police in Assam's Sonitpur district have arrested four people, including a woman reportedly married to a Pakistani national. The arrests followed the detection of unusually large foreign deposits in a family's bank account. Investigations revealed the woman had met the Pakistani national online and traveled to Dubai. Authorities seized numerous ATM cards and bank documents.
China's credit growth in November stays muted on low demand
Financial institutions extended 392 billion ($55.6 billion) of new yuan loans in the month, falling short of economists' median forecast of 450 billion , based on data released by the People's Bank of China on Friday. The stock of outstanding credit to the real economy rose 8.5% from a year ago, matching the pace in October.
Former IAS Rajkumar Goyal likely to head Central Information Commission
Rajkumar Goyal, a retired IAS officer, is poised to become the Chief of the Central Information Commission. Several other prominent figures are expected to be appointed as Information Commissioners, filling all nine vacancies. This move aims to bolster the RTI Act's appellate authority, though concerns about representation have been raised.
India now home to 2 lakh recognised startups: Piyush Goyal
India's startup ecosystem is booming with over two lakh government-recognised entities. This year alone saw over 44,000 new recognitions, a record high. A significant achievement is that nearly half of these startups include at least one woman director or partner. These ventures have collectively generated over 21 lakh direct jobs, showcasing robust growth and inclusivity.
'Digital progress uneven across states': Report
India's digital progress is uneven. Some states are building world-class digital systems, while others fall behind. Delhi leads with a high digitalisation score. Jharkhand ranks last. This disparity risks India's ambitious Digital Bharat goals. Ensuring weaker states catch up is crucial for India to become a global digital powerhouse.
Military retirement pay increase 2026: Military retirement pay will rise 2.8% in 2026 as the new COLA takes effect, lifting checks starting December 31, 2025. The increase mirrors Social Security and VA adjustments and adds $28 per $1,000 of monthly retired pay. REDUX retirees get 1.8%. A detailed breakdown followsheres what changes next year.
India, France near deal on tax treaty, to lower levy on dividends paid to French parent companies
India and France are nearing a revised tax treaty that will reduce dividend taxes for French parent companies holding over 10% stakes to 5%, while increasing it to 15% for minority shareholders. The agreement also proposes allowing India to tax share sales by any French entity, shifting to a source-based capital gains framework.
Dune: Prophecy Season 2 release date, cast and how to watch update explains the new season plan, production timeline, first footage details, new cast, and links to the wider Dune universe. It breaks down HBO updates, filming locations, story expansion, and the confirmed 2026 rollout of the prequel series.
Do you spend too much time on the couch? Eat these simple heart-boosting foods to stay safe
If you sit a lot, your heart can get weak. Eating foods like cocoa, green tea, berries, leafy greens, plums, and nuts can help keep your heart healthy. These foods have flavanols, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Simple changes in your diet can protect your heart even when you are mostly sitting.
Rahul Gandhi raises air pollution issue in Parliament
When Gandhi suggested a discussion on the matter, parliamentary affairs minister Kiran Rijiju said the demand for such a debate had already been made by both ruling and Opposition sides, even at the last business advisory committee meeting, and that the government was in the process of structuring the upcoming House discussion on pollution.
LIVE | DHS Secretary Kristi Noem delivers keynote at HSDF Border Security Symposium
House Democrats have released photographs from Jeffrey Epstein's estate. These images offer a new look at his connections with prominent figures. The release adds pressure as a deadline for the Epstein files approaches. Republicans accuse Democrats of creating a misleading narrative. The photos show individuals like Donald Trump and Bill Clinton. More images are expected to be released soon.
Nvidia share price: NVDA stocks fall big even after big H200 AI chips development. What to know?
Nvidia has told Chinese clients it is evaluating adding production capacity for its powerful H200 AI chips after orders exceeded its current output level, according to two sources briefed on the matter.
Only days left! Chase refinance rate sale wraps Sunday dont lose out on lower monthly payments
Chases limited-time refinance mortgage rate discount: Chase refinance rate sale wraps Sunday as the lender offers rare rate cuts of up to 1% while mortgage rates hover near 6%. Homeowners can lock discounted rates through the weekend, stack Chase relationship pricing, and shave real dollars off monthly payments before the Dec. 14 deadline hits.
House DEFIES Trump! GOP defectors help Dems kill controversial union restrictions executive order
Turning U.S into 3rd-world hellhole: Tubervilles fiery 'anti-muslim' senate speech draws backlash
Thai and Cambodian leaders have agreed to renew a ceasefire after days of deadly clashes, Trump says
President Donald Trump announced a renewed truce between Thailand and Cambodia. Leaders of both nations agreed to cease all shooting. This comes after days of deadly clashes threatened an earlier ceasefire. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also played a role. The conflict stems from historical territorial claims and a 1907 map. Both countries have deployed military assets.
Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 2 release date, cast and production update continues to draw interest as Netflix prepares the new season. The series will return in 2026 with new cast members, major story changes, and long production plans. This explainer covers release updates, filming status, new characters, and season details.
US-Venezuela all-out war? Leavitt confirms Trump plans daring seizure of Venezuelan oil in big clash
Stop lying!: Noem confronted at House hearing as protester yells 'Power of Christ compels you!'
Dems drop new Epstein bomb; Photos of Trump, Clinton, Bannon, Gates released: End the Cover-Up NOW
Oracle stock plunges over 7% as OpenAI data-center delay to 2028 sparks fresh worries. Oracles $300B AI build-out faces new pressure after Bloomberg reported construction setbacks and a $15B capex jump for FY26. The pullback in ORCL contributed to a wider tech sell-off, with AI and cloud stocks like Nvidia, AMD and others also sliding on risk-off sentiment.
Interview with the Vampire Season 3 release date and how to watch update is now confirmed for summer 2026. AMC has rebranded the season as The Vampire Lestat. The story shifts to Lestats point of view and explores his past, rock star life, new cast members and links to earlier seasons.
Your $750,000 retirement account comes with this RMD see how much you must withdraw
RMD rules explain how much money must be taken from a $750,000 retirement account at a certain age. The amount is based on IRS calculations that change each year. Withdrawals can affect taxes, and missing them can lead to big penalties. Early planning and good advice help retirees handle these required payments safely and avoid costly mistakes.
Man vs Baby: Will there be an episode 5 or season 2?
Rowan Atkinson's new Netflix series, Man vs Baby, a four-episode special, has arrived. Following his Man vs. Bee antics, Atkinson's character, Trevor, finds himself unexpectedly caring for a baby amidst Christmas chaos. While the finale hints at more, a second season is highly unlikely, with Netflix positioning it as a holiday special rather than a multi-season show.
US Treasury buys another $12.5 billion of its own debt: The record buyback tightens market liquidity as bank reserves fall to $2.83T. Investors question QE-like effects. Higher Treasury yields may pull funds from stocks and crypto, impacting short-term market trends and fueling volatility across financial and digital asset markets. Bank reserves have already dropped from a 2021 peak of $4.27 trillion to $2.83 trillion.
Tom Brady and Irina Shayk have quietly rekindled their romance over a year following their brief 2023 fling, though sources cite that they are keeping things casual. The former NFL quarterback, 48, and the supermodel, 39, explain their relationship as a situationship, with neither pursuing exclusivity.
Andaman & Nicobar: Build India of Savarkars dreams, says Shah at Veer Savarkar statue unveiling
Every person important, it's time to live for Bharat and not die for it: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat
RSS leader Mohan Bhagwat called on citizens to prioritize the needs of the nation above all personal interests. He reminded everyone that its time to embrace a life dedicated to Bharat's progress rather than sacrificing for it. With an emphasis on unity, Bhagwat urged individuals to rise above caste and religious differences.
On this day in history: Important events that took place on December 13
December 13 marks significant historical events, including Pope Celestine V's resignation in 1294 and the capture of Saddam Hussein in 2003. The day also commemorates the start of the Nanjing Massacre in 1937 and the birth of influential singer Taylor Swift in 1989.
Powerball jackpot soars to $1 billion ahead of holidays as next drawing nears
The Powerball jackpot has reached $1 billion, and many people are excited to try their luck. The prize grew after no one won this week. Players can buy a ticket, pick numbers, and wait for the next drawing. With a huge holiday jackpot, Powerball is giving everyone a chance to dream of winning big without revealing the full story.
Maduro's end near? Massive US military build-up in Puerto Rico is Trump on the verge of striking Venezuela? The Pentagon has surged destroyers, surveillance jets, and Marine units into the Caribbean, raising urgent questions over a possible Trump strike on Venezuela. New satellite data, tanker seizures, and Trumps ultimatum to Maduro intensify fears that Washington is moving closer to decisive action.
WWE presents Saturday Night's Main Event on December 13, 2025. Wrestling legend John Cena steps into the ring for his final match against GUNTHER. The event also features Cody Rhodes defending his title against Oba Femi. AJ Styles and Dragon Lee will defend their tag team championships. Bayley faces Sol Ruca in a key women's match. U.S.
Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurates TVS Credit Technology Centre in Guwahati
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the TVS Credit Technology Centre in Guwahati, a key initiative under Advantage Assam 2.0. This center aims to bolster the state's digital ecosystem by skilling youth for tech roles, supporting AI, automation, and national digital transformation efforts.
Putin snubs Pakistan PM; Sharif waits for 40 mins at Ashgabat
Pakistani PM Shahbaz Sharif faced a diplomatic setback when Russian President Vladimir Putin kept him waiting for 40 minutes. Sharif later joined a meeting between Putin and the Turkish President uninvited. This incident follows previous embarrassments for Sharif during meetings with Putin, including malfunctioning headphones.
Who will present Union Budget 2026 and how is it prepared?
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present her ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1, 2026. This marks a continuation of her tenure, joining a select group of finance ministers with multiple consecutive budgets. The meticulous preparation process, involving extensive consultations and departmental reviews, culminates in the budget's presentation to Parliament.
Zubeen Case: CM Himanta says motive, conspiracy nailed as Assam SIT files 12,000-page chargesheet
Key Central Asian state Kazakhstan pushes Eurasian connectivity
Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended a forum on peace and neutrality. He praised Turkmenistan's neutral status and its role in Eurasian stability. Tokayev stressed the need for UN reform and a just world order. He welcomed diplomatic efforts to resolve regional conflicts, including the Ukraine conflict. Kazakhstan supports dialogue and peace initiatives.

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