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Global Business / The Economic Times
A 42-year-old booth-level officer, Anuj Garg, collapsed and died at his home in Jaipur. He was uploading voter data late Saturday night. His family alleges he was working under extreme pressure due to a heavy workload. Doctors declared him dead on arrival at the district hospital. Police are investigating the incident.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally asked President Isaac Herzog for a pardon. This comes as Netanyahu faces a lengthy corruption trial. He denies all charges and has pleaded not guilty. The President's office acknowledged the extraordinary nature of the request. It stated that all relevant opinions will be considered responsibly.
Chandel district in Manipur is detecting illegal immigrants, prompting the District Administration to organize training for police on operating biometric machines for mandatory online registration before deportation. Challenges with internet connectivity in border areas are being addressed with assistance from the Assam Rifles to ensure timely completion of the process.
Mumbai's air quality is worsening. Experts point to construction and vehicle emissions as key culprits. The city is undergoing major infrastructure development. Authorities are taking steps to combat pollution. Measures include cleaner fuels for bakeries and crematoriums, electric buses, and better debris management. Construction sites are being monitored for dust control.
Opposition parties are demanding discussions on electoral roll revisions and national security. The government has convened an all-party meeting ahead of the Winter Session. Leaders from 36 parties attended. The government stated it will engage with all parties for smooth functioning. The session begins December 1 and concludes December 19. Several issues were raised by various parties.
Pakistan dismissed on Sunday a warning by the UN rights chief of potential far-reaching consequences for the rule of law in granting the head of the all-powerful military legal immunity. He warned of a risk of far-reaching consequences for the principles of democracy and rule of law which the Pakistani people hold dear.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized India's quarterly GDP data, calling it ironic following an IMF report that gave India's national accounts statistics a 'C' grade. Ramesh argued that high GDP growth is unsustainable without renewed private investment and that the government is understating inflation to inflate growth figures.
The upcoming Powerball draw is scheduled for Monday at 10:59 p.m. ET, continuing the lotterys three-day-a-week format. The Monday drawing, added in 2021, was introduced to meet growing player participation and support larger jackpots.
The Indian Army is boosting its UN peacekeeping operations. Troops now have better protection and mobility. Indigenous vehicles like KalyM4 and Sherp ATVs are being deployed. Logistical support is also improved with swift delivery of essential supplies. These upgrades align with India's self-reliance goals. Over 5,000 Indian peacekeepers serve in nine active missions globally.
Switzerland is voting on making national service compulsory for women. Supporters believe it will strengthen the nation and improve social unity. Opponents worry about the high costs and potential impact on the economy. This decision reflects broader European views on national duty amid global uncertainties.
A devastating fire in Hong Kong's Wang Fuk Court apartment complex has claimed 146 lives. Seven of eight buildings were engulfed in flames. Hundreds of residents are paying tribute to the victims. Investigations are underway into potential fire code violations and the contractor's safety management. Authorities have arrested several individuals in connection with the tragedy.
Tips to lose visceral fat: A gastroenterologist highlights seven nutrient-rich foods to combat dangerous visceral fat, which accumulates around organs and disrupts metabolism. Dr. Saurabh Sethi recommends incorporating blueberries, Greek yogurt, fatty fish, olive oil, leafy greens, avocados, and green tea into your diet. These foods, packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, can naturally aid in reducing this harmful belly fat and improving overall health.
The Department of Telecom is taking extensive measures to ensure communication networks remain resilient. A 24x7 control room is operational. Intra Circle Roaming and Cell Broadcast testing are complete. Telecom operators must ensure uninterrupted operations, fuel reserves, and emergency power backups. Field teams are deployed in vulnerable districts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged participation in the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam. The event promotes learning Tamil and strengthens the spirit of Ek Bharat-Shrestha Bharat.
The Indian and British armies have successfully concluded their joint military exercise, Ajeya Warrior. This eighth edition focused on complex peace-enforcement operations in a counterterrorism setting. Soldiers from both nations trained together, sharing tactics and procedures. The exercise strengthened interoperability and camaraderie between the forces. Both armies look forward to future collaborations.
Uttar Pradesh has drastically reduced rent agreement charges, slashing stamp and registration fees by nearly 90%. The new rates, effective immediately, are now tied to annual rent and lease duration, offering significant relief to tenants and landlords. This overhaul aims to simplify and reduce the financial burden of rental contracts statewide.
December 2025 Dry Days: Alcohol sales will be restricted across several Indian states this December. Delhi will observe dry days for MCD by-elections from November 28 to December 3. Mumbai will have dry days on December 6 for Mahaparinirvan Diwas and December 25 for Christmas. Kerala has announced multiple dry days for local body elections and counting day on December 13.
Veteran Kannada actor 'Mysore' Srikantayya Umesh passed away at 80 after a battle with stage-four liver cancer. Known for his comedic roles and a career spanning over five decades and 350 films, Umesh's unwavering optimism even in his final days touched many. He received the Karnataka State Film Award and the Karnataka Nataka Akademy Award.
The Election Commission of India has extended the schedule for the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. This revision is for 12 States and Union Territories. All deadlines are now pushed back by one week. The qualifying date remains January 1, 2026. Enumeration and polling station rationalisation will conclude by December 11, 2025.
Authorities in Murshidabad, West Bengal, have stumbled upon a cache of danger hidden in plain sightthree plastic containers filled with roughly 60-70 live socket bombs buried in a jackfruit orchard. Responding to a trusted lead, police executed a search operation, with a vigilant security guard overseeing the scene.
A 19-minute private Instagram video has sparked widespread online discussion, leading to confusion and misinformation. Influencer Sweet Zannat was wrongly identified as the woman in the clip, facing trolling and accusations. She posted a video to clarify that she is not the person in the viral MMS, which itself has unverified authenticity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated India's space and defense achievements. He praised young innovators working on Mars-like drone technology. The Prime Minister also noted the inauguration of Skyroot's Infinity Campus. Developments in the defense sector, including a new MRO facility and INS Mahe, were also highlighted. These advancements reflect India's growing self-reliance and innovation.
MTV is shutting down its international music broadcasting by the end of the year, marking the end of an era for the iconic channel. Facing competition from online streaming and social media, music channels in the UK and Europe will cease operations, with a focus shifting to entertainment.
India's Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav declared COP30 a success, highlighting the nation's achievement of key goals and strong representation of developing countries' interests. Major outcomes include a work program on climate finance and the establishment of mechanisms for just transition and technology implementation.
Delhi Police has filed an FIR against Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case. The Congress party claims this is part of a vendetta by the Modi-Shah duo. The party states the case is bogus and justice will prevail. The FIR includes charges of criminal conspiracy and cheating.
Stefanie Pieper was found dead in a Slovenian forest. Her ex-boyfriend reportedly confessed to strangling her and burying her body. Pieper went missing after returning from a Christmas party. Her ex-boyfriend was arrested in Slovenia. Two of his family members were also arrested. Investigations are ongoing in both Slovenia and Austria.
A Hong Kong student, Miles Kwan, was reportedly detained by national security police. He had urged commuters to demand accountability for a deadly apartment fire. Kwan's online petition calling for an independent probe was deleted. This incident shows how dissenting voices are suppressed in Hong Kong. Authorities have arrested others in connection with the blaze.
Get ready for a significant year in 2026. Astrological insights suggest major planetary shifts will bring love and commitment for certain Zodiac signs. Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Capricorn, and Pisces are predicted to experience wedding bells and deep connections. This year promises emotional fulfillment and long-term partnerships for many. Prepare for a year of romance and settling down.
Smriti-Palash Wedding: Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana and music composer Palash Muchhal have added the evil eye emoticon to their Instagram bios following their wedding postponement due to family health emergencies. This symbolic gesture has sparked fan speculation about warding off negativity. Both families are focused on recovery, with plans for the wedding to proceed soon.
A steady trickle of illegal immigrants returning to Bangladesh from West Bengal's Hakimpur border has become a political flashpoint. Both BJP and TMC are weaponizing these visuals, with the BJP claiming it proves their infiltration narrative and the TMC alleging an orchestrated exercise to legitimize the SIR.
Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath has dropped another teaser of his upcoming podcast with world's richest man, Elon Musk. In the 39-second black and white clip, Nikhil asks the Tesla CEO that why he is so obsessed with the letter X. Last week, Nikhil Kamath dropped a sneak peek of his upcoming podcast episode featuring Elon Musk which took the internet by storm.
December 2025 brings two important Ekadashi fasting days. Mokshada Ekadashi on December 1 offers liberation and coincides with Gita Jayanti. Saphala Ekadashi on December 15 signifies success and prosperity. These observances provide a spiritual pause for devotees. They allow for reflection, gratitude, and preparation for the year ahead. The fasts aim to purify the mind and soul.
Cyclone Ditwah has devastated Sri Lanka. Flooding is severe in Colombo, with the Kelani River overflowing. Over 150 lives are lost and many are missing. Thousands of homes are destroyed, and over a hundred thousand people are in shelters. The nation faces a severe humanitarian crisis. International aid is being sought and received.
Pakistan is intensifying mass expulsions of Afghans, deporting about 1 million this year amid escalating military clashes with Afghanistan. Many Afghans, who have lived in Pakistan for decades, face dire conditions upon return to their homeland. This crackdown coincides with similar moves by Iran and Western nations, impacting Afghan refugees and their remittances.
Rajasthan's schools were recently urged to recognize December 6 as 'Shaurya Diwas,' complete with cultural events and writing competitions. This suggestion, however, quickly ignited fierce opposition from political parties and Muslim advocacy groups. In a surprising turn, the government has reversed its stance on the matter, referencing unavoidable factors for the change.
Delhi's air quality improved to the 'poor' category on Sunday morning, registering an AQI of 268, a significant drop from the 'very poor' levels of the previous day. While five stations still reported 'very poor' conditions, the majority of the city's monitoring sites indicated 'poor' air quality. The minimum temperature was 8.3 degrees Celsius with 97% humidity.
Many car buyers in India are unaware they can claim a tax refund on Tax Collected at Source (TCS). Sellers deduct 1% TCS on vehicles over 10 lakh, which is adjustable against your tax liability or refundable if your tax payable is lower.
Four people were killed and 14 others injured in a shooting at a child's birthday party in Stockton, California on Saturday night. Police are investigating the incident, which occurred near the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue. Early indications suggest the shooting may have been targeted.
A shooting incident has led to several hospitalizations in Stockton, California. The event occurred on Saturday evening, November 29, 2025, at a child's birthday party. Authorities are actively investigating the scene near Thornton Road. No suspect information or motives have been released. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The spirited efforts of the Border Security Force in Odisha are proving effective against Naxal threats, bolstered by an impressive array of troops and state-of-the-art weaponry. The establishment of new bases in Kandhamal signifies a strong operational expansion. The BSFs use of advanced technologies, including drones and sophisticated arms akin to international border security, highlights their commitment.
WWE Survivor Series: WarGames 2025 at Petco Park set an attendance record. The event featured John Cena losing his final PLE match to Dominik Mysterio for the Intercontinental Championship, aided by Liv Morgan. The night also saw AJ Lee's team win the Women's WarGames match and The Vision secure victory in the Men's WarGames match.
A 23-year-old man died and two others were injured when a Mercedes G63 SUV allegedly rammed into them near a mall in Delhi's Vasant Kunj. The incident occurred early Sunday morning. Police apprehended the 29-year-old driver, who reportedly lost control of the vehicle near a road diversion.
Delhi Police has registered an FIR against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. The case involves allegations of money laundering and abuse of position for personal gain. The FIR stems from a complaint by the Enforcement Directorate. Several other Congress leaders and entities are also named. The investigation focuses on the acquisition of properties belonging to Associated Journals Ltd.
Cyclone Ditwah is influencing east coast weather, prompting a yellow alert for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, including Chennai. As many as 54 flights have been cancelled at the Chennai Airport with Air India issuing an advisory for passengers. The IMD has warned of heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry.

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