The Economic Times News

Rohit Sharma marked his return to domestic List A cricket with a 62-ball century for Mumbai against Sikkim in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, striking eight fours and eight sixes. Almost simultaneously, Virat Kohli reached 53*, showcasing Indias white-ball stars in sublime form ahead of upcoming ODI assignments.

India lost several prominent personalities in 2025. Dharmendra, a legendary Bollywood actor, passed away. Advertising icon Piyush Pandey also left us. Singer Zubeen Garg's soulful voice is now silent. Industrialist Gopinath Hinduja's passing marked an end to a business era. The nation remembers their significant contributions to culture and growth.

Top Box Office hits and flops of 2025: Bollywood's 2025 box office presented a mixed bag, with spy thrillers like 'Dhurandhar' and emotional dramas like 'Saiyaara' achieving massive success. However, big-budget films including Salman Khan's 'Sikandar' and Tiger Shroff's 'Baaghi 4' failed to meet audience expectations, marking them as significant flops.

The Bombay High Court has stayed actions by three banks to declare Anil Ambani and Reliance Communications' accounts as 'fraud'. The court ruled that the forensic audit report used was invalid as it lacked a qualified chartered accountant's signature, violating RBI Master Directions. This decision prevents drastic consequences for Ambani and his company.

Former diplomat KP Fabian observed that China's claim over Arunachal Pradesh reflects a long-standing expansionist mindset. He noted India remains pragmatic in ties with China, while a Pentagon report flags Arunachal as a Chinese core interest amid broader strategic ambitions and lingering India-China distrust.

The next Union Budget will continue Indias Viksit Bharat agenda, focusing on growth, inclusion and sustainability, said EAC-PM chairman S Mahendra Dev. The government will stick to fiscal consolidation, with the fiscal deficit on track to fall below 4.5% of GDP and debt levels declining.

A 27-year-old tanker, believed to be a 'zombie vessel' using a scrapped ship's identity, is heading to Venezuela. This tactic helps Venezuela, crippled by sanctions, export its oil, primarily to China. Despite a fraction of its former output, Venezuela's continued shipments are prompting the US to pursue physical disruption of its oil trade.

Fresh unrest erupted in the city as BJP supporters clashed with police during a protest against the killing of a Hindu Bangladeshi youth. The demonstration, aimed at the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission, was halted by authorities, leading to scuffles and barricade breaches. Police stated they acted to prevent disruption and maintain law and order.

Tata Advanced Systems handed over the first batch of WhAP 8x8 armoured vehicles to the Royal Moroccan Army, marking a milestone in India-Morocco defence ties. The India-developed platform will be manufactured in Morocco and supplied under a major three-year defence contract.

Indias lifestyle shifts in 2025 showed up clearly in Instamart shopping data. Orders for Korean snacks jumped nearly five times year-on-year, led by ramen and instant noodles, as pop culture trends translated directly into food choices.

India's defence research agency DRDO has successfully completed user trials for the next-generation Akash missile system. This advanced air defence system demonstrated high precision against various aerial threats. The Akash-NG missile is now set for induction into the Indian Armed Forces. This development significantly enhances India's air defence capabilities.

As the holiday season arrives, a curated selection of films offers festive cheer and nostalgia. From the childhood antics of 'Home Alone' and the wartime struggles of 'First Blood' to the life-affirming magic of 'It's a Wonderful Life' and the action-packed 'Die Hard', these movies provide comfort and celebration for all.

OnePlus Turbo key specs revealed after the model number PLU110 is spotted on Geekbench. Leaks say the expected handset sis et to feature 9000mAh battery and 165 Hz refresh frate for smoother gaming experience. The model is expected to feature the yet-to-be-launched new Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip.

Delhi Traffic Police has announced diversions and restrictions around Saket malls on December 24-25 to manage crowds during Christmas celebrations. Nearly 20,000 personnel will be deployed city-wide for security and traffic management, with a zero-tolerance approach to stunts and drunk driving.

BP is selling a major part of its Castrol lubricants business to Stonepeak for approximately $6 billion. This deal values Castrol at $10.1 billion. BP will keep a 35% stake in a new joint venture. The funds will help BP reduce its debt. This is a key step in BP's plan to sell assets and improve profitability.

Russia plans to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon by 2036 to support its lunar missions and a joint RussiaChina research station, as global powers race to expand space exploration. The project, led by Roscosmos, aims to enable long-term lunar operations after recent setbacks in Russias space programme.

England faces significant challenges ahead of the fourth Ashes Test with Jofra Archer sidelined by a side strain and Ollie Pope dropped for poor form. Australia, already leading the series, will also be without captain Pat Cummins and spinner Nathan Lyon due to injuries. New faces are set to feature for both sides in the upcoming crucial encounter.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted the transport sector's significant role in Delhi's pollution. He expressed personal discomfort from the city's air quality. Gadkari questioned the nation's reliance on fossil fuel imports, advocating for self-sufficiency in alternative fuels. Meanwhile, Delhi faces severe smog, with air quality in the 'very poor' category. Opposition parties sought a parliamentary discussion on the issue.

Rahul Gandhi criticizes the BJP government's policies, stating they harm small businesses and the Vaishya community. He pledges support to traders, calling it a fight against a feudal mindset. Gandhi also opposes the VB-G RAM-G Bill, alleging it will destroy livelihoods. He claims the government bypassed Parliament and states on this bill.

Kashmir experienced a welcome relief from the cold as night temperatures climbed above freezing across most areas. Srinagar recorded a mild 3.0 degrees Celsius. Tourist spots Gulmarg and Pahalgam remained below zero. The weather department predicts dry conditions for the coming days. This shift brings a pleasant change to the valley.

A Bengaluru electrician, Anant, has been arrested for allegedly killing his wife, Gayatri. He initially tried to pass off her death as a road accident. Police grew suspicious after doctors noted her injuries. Anant confessed to the crime, citing anger over neglect and financial disputes. Gayatri was a school teacher.

Uddhav Thackerays Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackerays MNS on Wednesday formally announced an alliance for the BMC and other civic polls after finalising seat-sharing. Sena (UBT) will contest around 145150 Mumbai seats, MNS 6570, with a small share for NCP (SP). Congress will go solo.

Shiv Sena-UBT and MNS are reportedly forming an alliance for the 2026 Municipal Corporation elections, sparking political reactions. Shiv Sena leaders expressed concerns over betraying Balasaheb Thackeray's legacy, while Congress leaders questioned the implications for broader alliances, hinting at potential splits within the ruling Mahayuti.

Libya's army chief Lt Gen Mohamed Al-Haddad died in a plane crash returning from Turkey. This incident occurred days after Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir finalized a multi-billion dollar military equipment deal with Libya. The deal includes fighter jets and trainer aircraft. This development comes despite a UN arms embargo on Libya.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday brought hearings to a close in the contentious civil suit over the personal estate of late industrialist Sunjay Kapur, reserving orders on the interim injunction plea filed by his children from an earlier marriage with actor Karisma Kapoor, after recording that all parties had completed their written submissions as directed earlier.

India's space endeavor has reached new heights with ISRO's triumphant launch of the BlueBird Block-2 satellite. This pivotal mission heralds a promising future for the Gaganyaan human space program, showcasing ISRO's cutting-edge capabilities and solidifying its standing in the international space community.

A Reddit user's distressing account of being pressured to work despite struggling to breathe, with their manager prioritizing deadlines over medical attention, has sparked widespread discussion. The incident, highlighting the human cost of hustle culture and the unrealistic workplace, has stirred up debates online about corporate work pressure.

West Bengal's economy in 2025 experienced significant investment in ports, power, and technology. Major companies pledged substantial funds for new projects. This growth occurred alongside challenges in traditional sectors like jute and tea. The state government expressed confidence in its economic direction. Fiscal matters remained a point of political discussion.

Global economic growth is set for resilience in 2026. India will lead as a fast-growing economy. Goldman Sachs forecasts 2.8% global growth, with India at 6.7%. Emerging markets will outperform developed nations. Strong domestic demand and infrastructure spending fuel India's rise. Inflation is expected to ease, supporting growth. Global labor market weakness is a noted risk.

Delhi schools are preparing for their winter vacation. Many will close from December 22 to December 27. Christmas Day, December 25, will be a holiday for all. The official winter break for students begins January 1, 2025, and extends until January 15, 2025. Pre-board exams for classes 10 and 12 are scheduled from December 15 to December 31.

The India-US relationship, once envisioned as a natural alliance, has become unpredictable, oscillating between warmth and confrontation. Despite public bonhomie and early trade discussions, sharp trade actions and mixed geopolitical signals have strained ties, driven by domestic US politics and strategic interests.

Tokyo Electric Power Company plans to restart its Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant unit on January 20. This marks the first restart for TEPCO since the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi accident. The Niigata prefecture assembly has approved the partial restart. Japan aims to increase its nuclear power share. The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant is the world's largest nuclear facility.

Concerns about training and equipment at the 12th Aviation Battalion were raised for years by local pilots. The US government has now accepted legal liability for the accident. The incident highlighted significant safety issues within Army aviation.

A Qantas flight from Singapore to Melbourne was diverted to Adelaide on Christmas Eve due to a technical issue, causing significant disruption for passengers. The unscheduled landing, while not an emergency, left travellers stranded during a peak travel period. Qantas stated passenger safety was paramount and worked to rebook affected customers onto alternative flights.

The Congress party has accused the government of misleading the public regarding the Aravallis. They state that a new definition of the hills, which the government is promoting, has been opposed by key environmental bodies. These include the Forest Survey of India, the Supreme Court's Central Empowered Committee, and the court's amicus curiae.

The UGC NET December 2025 examination is scheduled from December 31, 2025, to January 7, 2026. Candidates can anticipate the release of their admit cards between December 26 and December 28, based on past trends. The NTA has already issued city intimation slips to aid travel planning.

Santa Claus has officially launched his 2025 mission from the North Pole, with his sleigh. Call sign R3DN053, becomes the #1 tracked flight on Flightradar24. Registered as HOHOHO, the supersonic craft (sleigh) was seen cruising at 60,000 feet, delivering holiday magic to millions while monitored by aviation enthusiasts worldwide.

Bangladesh News: The brother of slain Inqilab Moncho convenor Sharif Osman bin Hadi has blamed the interim government for his murder, demanding accountability. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina echoed these sentiments, citing a breakdown in law and order. Protests erupted in Dhaka, with the government promising a fast-tracked trial under the Speedy Trial Tribunal.

Davos will host over 3,000 global leaders for the World Economic Forum's 2026 Annual Meeting, themed 'A spirit of dialogue.' Interim Co-Chair Andre Hoffmann emphasised the crucial need for a trusted space to discuss interconnected challenges like growth, geopolitics, and climate change in a fragmented world.

Delhi's air quality remains poor despite clearer skies. The government has approved 100 crore rupees for rejuvenating water bodies. This initiative aims to reduce pollution and create a cleaner environment. Meanwhile, dense fog and cold waves continue to affect other North Indian cities like Ambala and Ayodhya.

Christmas Day in New Zealand promises varied weather. Expect sunshine and warm temperatures in many regions, perfect for barbecues. However, some areas will see showers and strong winds. The far north and the West Coast may experience persistent rain. Cooler temperatures are forecast for the lower South Island. Residents should check local forecasts for planning.