The Economic Times News

Bardot died Sunday at her home in southern France, according to Bruno Jacquelin, of the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the protection of animals. Speaking to The Associated Press, he gave no cause of death, and said that no arrangements had been made for funeral or memorial services. She had been hospitalized last month.

Banks are asking the Reserve Bank of India for more time on loan relief for exporters. The current scheme ends this month. Exporters face ongoing challenges from global trade issues. Banks believe the real impact of these issues will be seen next quarter. An extension would offer a crucial safety net for exporters.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy recently cautioned that broad-based progress will remain challenging unless states and their distribution companies (discoms) come onboard. The panel identified lack of awareness as the primary reason for the scheme's slow adoption.

A tragic helicopter crash occurred in Hammonton, New Jersey. One person lost their life in the incident. Another individual sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a hospital. Flames engulfed one of the aircraft. Authorities are investigating the cause of the devastating accident. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are involved.

Operation Sindoor, a decisive military strike against Pakistan in 2025, redefined India's response to terrorism and reshaped its national security strategy. The operation exposed Pakistan's nuclear bluff and demonstrated India's capability for impactful strikes, leading to significant shifts in military thinking and preparedness for future conflicts.

In an office order issued by the Department of Revenue on Saturday, the ministry said the allotments were approved by the competent authority and that all members have been asked to join their respective benches by January 21. The move is expected to pave the way for the start of GSTAT hearings shortly thereafter. The Centre is also learnt to have directed the state governments to expedite the provision of courtrooms and office space to ensure that members can begin hearings immediately after jo

The All-India Debt and Investment Survey (AIDIS), scheduled between July 2026 and June 2027, is a key input for estimating gross fixed capital formation, or GFCF - a core component of GDP that tracks spending on assets such as housing, land and durable goods. Data from AIDIS 2026-27 will be incorporated into the 2027-28 GDP estimates, the official said.

Himadri Speciality Chemical is expanding into lithium-ion battery materials and advanced chemicals to position itself as a non-Chinese supplier to global electric vehicle and energy storage supply chains, while continuing to grow its coal tar-based businesses.

A routine eviction drive in north Bengaluru has triggered a political row, putting the Congress-led Karnataka government under pressure from both the Kerala government and its own central leadership, while drawing sharp criticism from the BJP.

The gratuity liability is expected to rise, as the new labour codes have redefined wages and eased the eligibility for such a benefit for fixed-term workers, including the contractual ones. This liability, the ICAI said, needs to be recognised in interim financial statements/results of companies for the December quarter, in sync with relevant accounting requirements.

Birds undertake long migrations for survival and impulse. A seagull with a GPS tracker and Amur falcons migrating from Manipur to Africa spark curiosity. A political 'fly in and fly out' generates excitement. This 'bird' appears globally, its actions debated. Unity is crucial for overcoming challenges, as shown by a mouse helping pigeons.

Indias film industry posted steady growth in 2025, with net box-office collections rising 12% to 10,453 crore, led by a 20% jump in Hindi film earnings to 4,792.7 crore. Industry executives said audience preferences shifted clearly towards strong storytelling rather than star power, across genres and film lengths.

UP School Holiday: Uttar Pradesh faces a severe cold wave. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered all schools closed until January 1. He directed officials to stay alert and ensure no one sleeps in the open. Funds are released for blankets, shelters, and bonfires. Relief work is underway across the state.

India secured a commanding 30-run victory over Sri Lanka in the fourth women's T20I. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma's record partnership powered India to a massive 221/2. Vaishnavi Sharma's bowling restricted Sri Lanka to 191/6. This win gives India a 4-0 lead in the five-match series.

The Ajit Pawar-led NCP has released its first list of 37 candidates for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. The party will contest the polls independently. Other parties like AAP have also announced candidates. The elections are scheduled for January 15. Nominations close on December 30. The Congress has allied with Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi for the civic body polls.

In his final Mann ki Baat of 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Indias key achievements over the year, including Operation Sindoor by the Air Force, the Ram temple flag installation, the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, and Indias growing global presence in science, sports, and culture.

Taxi fares in Arlington, Virginia are set to rise from January 1. New rates will increase the initial drop charge, distance fees, and waiting time costs. These adjustments aim to support drivers and keep local taxi services competitive. Similar fare increases are also being considered in Kaua'i County, Hawaii, for chartered tour taxis.

US President Donald Trump is set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Sunday. This meeting is crucial for advancing a peace agreement to end the ongoing war. The talks follow intensified Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities. President Trump also had a productive call with Russian President Vladimir Putin before the meeting.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the NCP (Sharad Pawar) faction will contest the Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections together. Pawar stated that this alliance aims to bring the family together again and that seat-sharing discussions are underway, with an announcement expected soon.

Delhi based clinical nutritionist Lovneet Batra says eating healthy foods alone may not guarantee better health outcomes. In a recent Instagram post, she explained that improper food combinations can disrupt digestion, spike insulin and strain hormones, leading to weight gain, fatigue and gut issues despite clean eating. Batra stresses that balancing fibre, protein, fats and carbohydrates on the plate is essential for stable blood sugar, hormonal health and sustained energy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged states to boost manufacturing and the services sector, emphasizing India's potential to become a global services giant. He also highlighted the nation's capacity to transform into the world's food basket through advancements in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, dairying, and fisheries, aiming for significant food exports.

Former President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. He stated the United States has become the 'real' United Nations, resolving eight conflicts. Trump criticized the UN for its lack of involvement in global peace efforts. He is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss a peace plan.

Uttar Pradesh's draft voter list will feature 12.55 crore names. Nearly 2.89 crore voters were removed. Those excluded can reapply from January 1. Over 1 crore voters are unmapped and need to provide documents. Objections to the draft list can be filed until January 31. This process aims for a clean electoral roll.

Delhi is under an orange alert due to dense fog, with temperatures expected around 22 and 7 degrees Celsius. Airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet have issued advisories for flight delays and cancellations across several North Indian cities. Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality has turned 'severe', prompting health warnings and recommendations for residents.

Delhi braces for a difficult start to the week. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for very dense fog. Temperatures will remain chilly, severely affecting visibility. Pollution levels are dangerously high. The Air Quality Index is in the 'very poor' category, with some areas reaching 'severe'. Humidity is also extremely high, worsening conditions.

RSS leader Arun Kumar warned that Public Interest Litigations are being misused, harming society. He spoke at a convention where advocates passed a resolution. They are demanding faster judge appointments. The delay in filling court positions weakens the justice system. This impacts ordinary citizens, especially the poor. The resolution calls for time-bound appointments to ensure access to justice.

US based cardiologist Dr Dmitry Yaranov has warned that heart disease often presents through subtle, easily ignored symptoms rather than classic chest pain. In a widely shared Instagram post, he highlighted unusual warning signs such as jaw pain, leg swelling, breathlessness while lying down, nausea with cold sweats and erectile dysfunction. These signals, he stressed, may indicate serious cardiac issues and require early attention to prevent life threatening outcomes.

The New York Times Mini Crossword offers a quick, stimulating mental challenge for puzzle enthusiasts. This compact, five-by-five grid, known for its cleverly written clues, has become a daily ritual for many, fostering friendly competition. While accessible, the Mini can be surprisingly tricky, often leading players to seek hints and answers.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat called for India to become a Vishwaguru, driven by global necessity. He highlighted the resurgence of Sanatana Dharma and the interconnectedness of Bharat, the Hindu nation, Sanatana Dharma, and Hindutva. Bhagwat stressed that achieving this status requires sustained hard work and the organization of the Hindu community worldwide.

IndiGo, India's largest airline, saw its market share dip in November. This followed operational disruptions and a directive to reduce its flight schedule. The Air India Group, however, strengthened its position. SpiceJet also gained market share. Passenger traffic continued to grow. Customer complaints remained a concern for airlines.

Dhaka has rejected India's concerns regarding the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh. Dhaka states that India's narrative is inaccurate and exaggerated. Bangladesh also raised concerns about incidents targeting minority communities in India. Dhaka believes all countries must protect their minorities. The two nations are exchanging views on minority welfare.

Quote of the Day: Brigitte Bardot, the iconic actress and animal rights activist, passed away at 91. Her powerful quote, To possess a fur coat is to wear a cemetery on one's back, condemned the fur industry with moral outrage. Bardot dedicated her later life to animal welfare, leaving behind a legacy of uncompromising advocacy.

West Bengal Police warn citizens about a loan fraud racket active on social media. Scammers are using Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's name and photos to promote fake government loan schemes. They lure victims with instant loans without CIBIL scores. Victims are asked for personal details and advance fees. Police urge people to avoid suspicious links and apps.

News headlines December 29: India is seeing a significant drop in malaria cases. The civil aviation ministry has established a 24x7 control room for passenger assistance. Rolls Royce aims to make India a home market for its jet engines and naval propulsion. China's Maglev train has set a new speed record. In sports, Joe Root achieved a major career milestone.

Anand Mahindras social media post praising Tamil Nadus Brihadisvara Temple as the worlds most sophisticated ancient engineering has renewed attention on the UNESCO recognised Chola era monument. Built in the 11th century using interlocking granite without mortar, the Thanjavur temple exemplifies advanced Dravidian architecture, spiritual continuity and engineering precision. The post has also sparked fresh interest in visiting the historic complex today.

Gold, Silver prices prediction: Analysts said silver prices may move higher USD 80-85 per ounce globally, due to global supplies constraints.

Sun Tzu's supreme art of war emphasizes subduing the enemy without fighting, valuing strategy, deception, and preparation over bloodshed. This approach prioritizes knowledge, patience, and balance, leading to victory with minimal destruction. The principle extends beyond warfare, highlighting the power of influence and restraint in resolving everyday struggles.

The civil aviation ministry has launched a 24/7 Passenger Assistance Control Room. This center, staffed by officials from the ministry, DGCA, airlines, and AAI, resolves passenger issues. It addresses flight cancellations, lost baggage, and refund delays. The control room aims for timely grievance redressal and improved passenger experience across the aviation sector.

Private equity (PE) investments in Indian real estate moderated in 2025 amid global reassessment of risk, returns, and execution timelines, even as domestic fundamentals remained resilient. Total PE inflows stood at $3.5 billion, down 29% year-on-year, with office assets continuing to dominate, attracting 58% of total investment. Residential (17%) and warehousing (15%) followed, while retail activity remained limited.