The Economic Times News

India has strongly refuted Pakistan's claims of minority attacks, calling them unfounded and highlighting Pakistan's own poor record on minority rights. New Delhi dismissed the allegations as baseless, emphasizing that Pakistan's systemic victimisation of minorities is a well-established fact and cannot be obscured by criticism.

Dunkin is celebrating the least productive week of the year by providing one million free hot or iced coffees to Dunkin Rewards members. The campaign, dubbed produnktivity, focuses on energizing customers during the holiday season. To claim the offer, members must enter the code PRODUNKTIVITY in the Dunkin app on December 29, 2025, until the million coffees are distributed.

Taxpayers have a crucial two-day window on December 30 and 31 for a special retirement plan withdrawal. This move allows penalty-free access to funds for long-term care insurance premiums. New tax laws offer several deductions for 2025, including for seniors and auto loan interest. The SALT deduction cap has also significantly increased, impacting itemizers.

The BJP claims the Congress is fractured into two factions, led by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and her brother Rahul Gandhi. This internal division, highlighted by senior leader Digvijaya Singh's remarks, fuels a growing sentiment within the party to replace Rahul Gandhi with anyone to revive the Congress. The party's lack of unity is evident.

In January 2026, Social Security and SSI payments are scheduled based on birth dates or start date of benefits. SSI checks arrive early on Dec. 31, 2025, due to New Years Day. Social Security benefits rise 2.8%, about $56 more monthly. SSA ensures millions get their payments on time with clear January payment dates.

Bitcoin price today: Bitcoin's rally faltered, dipping below $88,000 after a brief surge past $90,000. This pullback impacted major altcoins, mirroring weakness in US stock futures. Traders reduced leveraged positions as Bitcoin futures open interest declined. Analysts suggest year-end tax harvesting may be contributing to selling pressure, though the long-term outlook remains positive.

Anthony Joshua has been injured in the car crash in Nigeria. Local police has launch an investigation into the matter.

INSV Kaundinya, an engineless Indian Navy vessel built using ancient stitched-ship techniques, has set sail from Gujarat to Oman. This maiden voyage retraces historic maritime routes, symbolizing India's rich seafaring traditions and its ancient role as a maritime nation. The project revives indigenous knowledge and highlights India's deep connection with the Indian Ocean.

Indian exports to Australia will become duty-free for all product categories starting January 1, 2026. This move follows an interim trade pact implemented in December 2022. Indian exports have already seen an 8 percent rise in 2024-25. This development promises new opportunities for India's labour-intensive sectors and strengthens supply chains.

The Punjab Congress will initiate a statewide mass movement starting January 8 from Gurdaspur. This action aims to protect the MGNREGA scheme. State unit chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring announced the plan, which follows press conferences across Punjab. The party has also raised this issue nationally, highlighting concerns about a new scheme replacing MGNREGA.

In a bold legislative maneuver, Russia has introduced a new law that enables the country to sidestep judgments issued by foreign and international courts regarding criminal issues. This decision arrives as Ukraine and European organizations intensify their calls for accountability for Russian officials amid the ongoing crisis.

Gold rose 72 per cent this year, rallying on factors such as softer U.S. monetary policy, dollar weakness, geopolitical friction and robust central bank purchases.

Millions of US workers will earn more money starting January 1 as new minimum wage laws take effect. States and cities across the country are raising pay to help workers manage rising living costs. Some increases are automatic, while others follow voter-approved plans. More wage hikes are also scheduled later in 2026.

The government has granted a one-year exemption from mandatory quality control for certain imported copper products, specifically for actual users. This decision, made in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards, aims to facilitate the import of specialized copper for various sectors. Importers must adhere to specific conditions, including informing BIS and submitting an indigenisation plan.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused the Congress of treating Bangladeshi infiltrators as a vote bank. He promised to identify and deport all illegal immigrants from Assam and across India. Shah highlighted the BJP government's focus on Assam's development and cultural preservation. He contrasted the BJP's actions with the Congress's perceived inaction.

Arnold Schwarzeneggers rise from champion bodybuilder to Hollywood legend started in the 1970s and led to a profession covering decades of blockbuster victories. With movies grossing over $5.2 billion worldwide, the former California governor has established a fortune estimated around $1.2 billion. Following his last significant role in Terminator: Dark Fate in 2019, fans are highly anticipating his comeback in The Man with the Bag, where he plays Santa Claus.

Today's Wordle #1654, a common food-related term, proved accessible for players. The New York Times' popular daily puzzle, known for its simple mechanics and engaging feedback, continues to captivate millions. The answer aligns with the game's tendency to feature familiar vocabulary, making it a straightforward challenge for most.

The Supreme Court has stayed a Delhi High Court order that suspended the life sentence and granted bail to Kuldeep Sengar in the Unnao rape case. The survivor expressed satisfaction and faith in the justice system, vowing to continue her fight. Sengar's daughters appealed for impartial justice, while political parties reacted to the development.

Delhi government is installing anti-smog guns at bus terminals to fight dust pollution. Kashmere Gate bus terminal will be the first to get these devices. Eight roof-mounted guns will spray water up to 30 meters. This initiative expands anti-pollution measures to busy transport hubs. Over 150 anti-smog guns are already on buildings.

Wheat planting for the 2024-25 rabi season shows little change. Area for pulses and oilseeds has seen a slight increase. Rice sowing is up marginally. Chickpea, lentil, and green gram sowing have exceeded last year's figures. Overall rabi crop area has grown compared to the previous year. Planting is nearing completion.

Despite service improvements, rising consumer grievances remain a concern for India's banking system, according to the RBI's Trend and Progress of Banking report. The central bank is prioritizing consumer education, protection, and robust grievance redressal, including combating digital frauds and enhancing the Integrated Ombudsman Scheme.

Jean-Paul Sartres enduring quote reframes identity as an unfinished journey rather than a completed record. This article explores how his existential philosophy values becoming over arriving, uncertainty over closure, and possibility over labels. Tracing the idea through his key works, life choices and rejection of fixed honors, it reflects on why feeling unfinished is not a flaw but the very condition of human freedom.

Brigitte Bardot passed away at 91 on December 28 at her Saint Tropez home following repeated hospitalizations. A global movie legend of the 1950s and 1960s, she starred in And God Created Woman, The Truth, and Viva Maria!, receiving a BAFTA nod. In 1973, she stepped away from acting to concentrate on animal rights, stating, I gave my youth and beauty to men; I give my wisdom and experience to animals.

India's star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra's impressive podium streak concluded at the Tokyo World Athletics Championships. Despite this, Chopra achieved a significant milestone by crossing the 90-meter mark for the first time in his career. He also secured victories and top finishes in various other prestigious events throughout the 2025 season, showcasing his continued dominance in the sport.

Delhi government has formed an expert committee to address the city's air pollution. This committee is part of a five-pronged strategy focusing on innovation and scientific management. An implementation committee is also established for faster action. Vehicular pollution is a key focus with road infrastructure upgrades underway. The city's air quality has worsened, entering the 'severe' category.

Millions of Americans may receive a second SSI or VA payment in December due to a schedule change. Veterans and Social Security recipients could see extra money before year-end. The early payment helps during the costly holiday season and supports people who depend on monthly government benefits, including disabled veterans and low-income individuals.

India is enhancing its battlefield concealment capabilities. New camouflage and deception technologies have been transferred to the Indian Army. These systems aim to counter advanced threats from missiles, drones, and sensor surveillance. The move follows recent conflicts that highlighted vulnerabilities. These advancements will improve troop and equipment survivability on modern battlefields.

Delhi faces a persistent air pollution crisis. The government has launched cloud-seeding trials and deployed anti-smog guns. A comprehensive action plan targets dust, vehicle emissions, and waste burning. New monitoring stations are planned. Efforts are underway to clear garbage dumps and increase green cover. Air quality remains a major concern.

UPSSC 2026: The UPSSSC is now accepting applications for 7,994 Lekhpal positions. This recruitment drive follows a revision in category-wise vacancies after intervention from the Chief Minister. Applications open today and close on January 28, 2026. Candidates need to have passed Class 12 and qualified the UPSSSC PET 2025. The selection process includes a written exam and document verification.

Today's word of the day 'Saudade' captures a deep emotional longing that blends loss, love, memory, and hope. This story explores its Portuguese origins, pronunciation, meaning, and why it remains famously untranslatable. It explains how saudade names a feeling English often describes only through many words.

A software professional who moved to London from India six months ago is facing significant financial strain and career uncertainty, living hand-to-mouth due to high living costs and an unstable job market. He questions the wisdom of his relocation, as he can no longer save money and fears job loss amidst tech sector layoffs and AI advancements.

A brief ten-minute walk after meals, as advocated by longevity researcher Bryan Johnson, offers significant health benefits. This simple habit aids in stabilizing blood sugar, improving digestion, and reducing circulating fats. The practice also contributes to better cardiovascular health and may lower the risk of digestive cancers.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has called on the people of Assam to elect a government in the upcoming assembly polls that will curb infiltration and foster development. He highlighted the progress made under the BJP's decade-long rule in the state and the Narendra Modi government's eleven years at the Centre.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Saturday his country is in a full-scale war with the U.S., Israel and Europe ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu s meeting Monday with U.S. President Donald Trump.

The US economy is set for a strong 2026. President Donald Trump's tax cuts and increased AI investments will boost growth. The Federal Reserve is expected to lower interest rates. This will lead to more consumer spending and business investment. However, a weakening job market and high inflation remain concerns.

India's Defence Acquisition Council has approved proposals worth approximately Rs 79,000 crore. These decisions aim to significantly boost the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The procurements include advanced weaponry and surveillance systems. This move underscores India's commitment to strengthening its defence preparedness and ensuring national security.

Charles Dickens, a celebrated Victorian novelist, continues to influence how we understand society and human resilience. His works like Oliver Twist and Great Expectations remain relevant. Dickens championed social reform, establishing Urania Cottage for women. He used literature to critique class divisions and give a voice to the marginalized, advocating for conscience and change.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pointed out a contradiction. He said Russian President Vladimir Putin tells US President Donald Trump he wants to end the war. However, Putin's public messages and actions show a desire to continue fighting. Russia continues missile strikes and celebrates destruction. Zelensky believes these actions do not match Putin's peaceful words to the US leader.

Rakhi Jadhav, Nationalist Congress Party (SP) Mumbai president, has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. This move comes just before the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. Jadhav is expected to contest from Ghatkopar on a BJP ticket. Her departure is a setback for NCP (SP) as alliance talks were ongoing. This development widens cracks within the party during the crucial election period.

India is seeking the extradition of Hussain Mohammed Shattaf from the United Arab Emirates. Shattaf is wanted for the 2006 murder of Captain Manmohan Singh Virdi in Lonavala. He allegedly fled India and used forged documents to reside in the UAE. The Ministry of External Affairs has forwarded the extradition request. India is committed to bringing back wanted criminals.

A new study from Keele University and the University of Alabama reveals that swearing isn't just a way to vent frustration. When people curse during physically demanding tasks, they actually perform better by shedding mental hesitation and self-doubt, unlocking a psychological state that lets them tap into their full capacity.

Quote of the Day Motivation: Alfred Nobel, inventor of dynamite, established the Nobel Prizes, celebrating achievement and reflecting on the impact of work. His enduring quote, 'Hope is the only thing stronger than fear,' underscores the power of optimism in driving innovation and positive change, even amidst controversy and potential destruction. This message remains vital for navigating challenges and inspiring responsible action.

India's banking system is robust, according to the Reserve Bank of India. Banks show strong balance sheets and profits. Bad loans have fallen to a multi-decade low. Capital positions remain strong, enabling continued lending. Deposits and credit are growing. This stability supports economic expansion and financial inclusion across the nation.