The Economic Times News

Tulsi Pujan Diwas, observed on December 25th, falls on an auspicious Thursday this year, honoring the sacred Tulsi plant. Worshipped for purity and devotion, the day offers an opportunity to seek blessings from Tulsi Mata and Lord Vishnu for peace and prosperity. Devotees can observe rituals like early morning bath, wearing yellow, and circumambulating the Tusli plant today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Christmas greetings today and said May teachings of Jesus Christ strengthen harmony in our society. In a social media post, Prime Minister Modi wished everyone a joyous Christmas filled with peace, compassion and hope. Recently, PM Modi concluded his three-nation tour and returned to India.

Christmas 2025 is here. This article provides a step-by-step guide for users to create personalized Christmas wishes and festive images using AI tools. Learn how to craft messages for loved ones and generate unique visuals with ChatGPT and Google Gemini. The process involves simple prompts and customization options for sharing across various platforms.

Delhi NCR weather Update: Are you planning to step out for Christmas in Delhi-NCR? If yes, then it is advisable to check the weather forecast by the IMD. The IMD has predicted clear skies for Delhi today and the air quality in the national capital has slightly improved too. In Noida and Gurugram too, there is no significant risk of weather.

Trump has accused the South American country of flooding the U.S. with drugs, and his administration has for months been bombing boats originating in South America that it alleges were carrying drugs. Many nations have condemned the attacks as extrajudicial killings.

The Peoples Bank of China vowed to guide borrowing costs to continue hovering at a low level, according to a Wednesday statement following its fourth-quarter monetary policy committee meeting. The bank repeated a pledge to step up cross-cyclical policies, a phrase suggesting it aims to look beyond short-term volatility and avoid excessive stimulus that could create structural imbalances.

Karnataka Bus Fire Accident Today: Over ten individuals are feared dead after a private bus caught fire following a collision with a lorry on National Highway-48 in Karnataka's Chitradurga district early Thursday. The bus, en route from Bengaluru to Shivamogga, saw nine passengers escape unharmed. Injured individuals were transported to local hospitals for medical attention.

Martin Luther King Jr., a pivotal civil rights leader, championed nonviolent protest against segregation in the US. His powerful advocacy, including the I Have a Dream speech, led to landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, King's life was tragically cut short by assassination in 1968.

Next Gen Bajaj Pulsar Classic 150: Bajaj Auto has updated the popular Pulsar 150. The motorcycle now features LED headlamps and turn indicators for better visibility. Its engine and mechanicals remain the same. The updated Pulsar 150 range is priced from Rs 1.08 lakh. New colour options and graphics add a modern touch.

A tragic car crash on Diamond Head Road in Coralville, New South Wales, has claimed the life of a teenage boy. Two other teenage passengers are in critical condition. Emergency services responded to reports of a vehicle colliding with a tree. The driver and another passenger were airlifted to John Hunter Hospital.

Forecasters said Southern California could see its wettest Christmas in years and warned about flash flooding and mudslides. Areas scorched by January's wildfires were under evacuation warnings, and Los Angeles County officials said Tuesday they were going door to door to about 380 especially vulnerable homes to order residents to evacuate.

Merry Christmas 2025: Christmas 2025 is arriving with a renewed sense of hope, joy, and togetherness, fostering closer connections among families and friends. The season is characterized by warm traditions, heartfelt conversations, and the creation of lasting memories. This festive period offers comfort, hope, and numerous reasons to smile.

The test, aimed at assessing the nuclear-armed country's strategic technology for developing a new type of high-altitude missile, destroyed targets in the air from 200 km (124 miles) away, KCNA said.

Christmas 2025 will be observed on December 25, marking one of the most significant festivals in Christianity. The day commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is celebrated globally for its spiritual and cultural importance. Families attend church services, exchange gifts, decorate homes, and dine together.

Restaurants open on Christmas: Christmas Day 2025 falls on Thursday, December 25, and several Americans will look for dining choices outside the home. While some restaurants shut for the holiday, many chains and local eateries will be open, providing meals, takeout, and festive specials. Chains such as Applebees, Dennys, Fogo de Cho, Burger King, and IHOP will welcome diners, though hours often differ by location.

XRP vs Bitcoin (BTC USD) 2026 prediction: XRP shows signs of strength and could outperform Bitcoin in 2026. Analysts predict XRP will lead major cryptocurrencies next year. A key support zone between $1.82 and $1.98 is holding strong. Positive cash inflows into XRP investment products continue. The XRP/BTC pair has confirmed a bullish breakout, signaling a new bull phase.

What is Steam store e502 l3 error and how to solve it? This explainer covers the Steam Store outage, user reports, causes of the E502 L3 error, server issues, past incidents, and step-by-step solutions users can try while waiting for Valve to restore services.

Is there an Epstein's Naughty List? The question surfaced after the White House shared a video of Donald Trump reading a so-called naughty list. Online reactions linked the clip to Jeffrey Epstein files released by the US Department of Justice, which include redactions and references to Trump.

Emma Heming, wife of actor Bruce Willis, opens up about the challenges of the holiday season. Willis battles frontotemporal dementia. Heming details how traditions have changed. She speaks of grief and joy coexisting. The family continues to celebrate, adapting to new realities. They unwrap gifts and share meals. Laughter and tears are part of their experience.

Pat Finn, the actor and comedian recognized for playing Bill Norwood in The Middle and Joe Mayo in Seinfeld, has passed away at 60 after a battle with bladder cancer. It is with profound sadness and grief that the Finn family announces the passing of beloved comedic actor, Pat Finn, his representative stated. Finn, who primarily went into remission in 2022, saw the cancer return and metastasize.

$1,776 Warrior Dividend payment taxable and does it affect my BAH or pay raise? This explainer answers service member questions about eligibility, taxes, LES timing, Guard and Reserve rules, funding, and whether the one-time payment changes BAH, BAS, retirement, or military pay raises.

Only 14% of workers max out their 401(k)s, despite rising retirement risks. Data from Vanguard shows the issue is largely structural. Wages have not kept pace with housing, healthcare, and childcare costs. For many workers, especially those earning under six figures, maxing out a 401(k) would require setting aside 20% or more of gross pay. After taxes. Every month. That reality puts the goal out of reach for millions.

People usually earn the most money between ages 45 and 54. Income and wealth depend on education, homeownership, and spending habits. College graduates and homeowners often have higher earnings and savings. Managing money carefully helps build financial security and net worth. Even households with similar income can have very different financial stability based on budgeting and savings.

A major scuffle erupted among Matuas in Thakurnagar, the community's headquarters. This incident occurred after Union minister Shantanu Thakur made remarks regarding the potential deletion of one lakh Matua names. The conflict highlights a brewing factional war between Trinamool-backed supporters and Thakur's followers. Trinamool leaders have strongly criticized Thakur's statements and his role within the community.

China is still limiting rare earth element supplies needed by the United States for permanent magnet manufacturing. This is happening even after a trade deal was reached in October. While China has increased deliveries of finished magnets, the US industry struggles to obtain the raw materials. This situation highlights ongoing tensions between the two nations.

Look up this Christmas for a special sight. The International Space Station will glide across the sky before sunrise on December 24 and 25. This bright, silent object will be visible to early risers in North America and Europe. No special equipment is needed, just clear skies and a bit of patience. Check local times for the best viewing opportunities.

Businesses are pushing the government to fix tax uncertainties and speed up dispute resolution. Unclear rules and treaty issues could lead to more tax cases. Industry leaders want the budget to cut litigation and reform Tax Deducted at Source. A large number of appeals are pending, causing delays.

A junior commissioned officer of the Army died in a firing incident inside a military camp in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir. The incident occurred late Tuesday night. The cause of the firing is under investigation. Army officials have ruled out a terror angle. Subedar Surjeet Singh was identified as the braveheart who made the supreme sacrifice.

The Bahujan Samaj Party, a former national third force, faces parliamentary absence for the first time. Once a significant player, the BSP drew a blank in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Its last MP's term ends in November 2026. The party's future hinges on the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has mandated cab aggregators to offer passengers the option to select a driver of the same gender, where available, to enhance safety. Additionally, the guidelines now permit voluntary tipping by passengers after the completion of a ride.

India has granted New Zealand market access for apples under a new trade pact. The agreement includes safeguards to protect local farmers. A concessional duty applies only to a specific quota. Imports beyond this quota will face the full existing duty.

Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have joined forces for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. The two parties aim to counter the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance. They stated their union is to protect Marathi language and culture. The Thackeray cousins believe this alliance will safeguard Mumbai and Maharashtra. Seat-sharing negotiations are ongoing, with Raj Thackeray citing fears of candidate poaching.

West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal trained over 4,600 micro observers for hearings concerning unmapped voters. These observers will work with EROs and AEROs. Meanwhile, the Calcutta High Court has directed the Election Commission of India to clarify the validity of OBC certificates issued after 2010. The court seeks a reasoned order on this matter within a week.

A bomb blast in Dhaka claimed one life. This incident occurs as Tarique Rahman prepares to return to Bangladesh after years abroad. Meanwhile, protests are underway in several Indian cities. These demonstrations are linked to the death of a Hindu Bangladeshi youth. Security has been heightened in New Delhi.

India and the European Union are set for crucial trade talks in early January. Discussions will cover geographical indications, critical mineral exports, and the EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism. India's steel export concerns are also on the agenda. Officials are working towards a swift agreement.

Cab passengers can now choose a driver of the same gender. Female passengers can specifically select a female driver. This new rule aims to enhance passenger safety. Additionally, passengers can voluntarily tip drivers after their ride. The full tip amount will go to the driver. These changes are part of updated Motor Vehicles Aggregators Guidelines, 2025.

The Bombay High Court has temporarily halted public sector banks from taking further action on fraud-related show-cause notices issued to Reliance Group chairman Anil Ambani. The court cited that the notices were based on a forensic audit report whose validity Ambani has challenged, and that proceeding would cause irreparable harm.

The CBI will challenge the Delhi High Court's decision to suspend the life sentence and grant bail to former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar. Sengar was convicted in the 2017 Unnao rape case. He will remain in jail due to a separate 10-year sentence. The CBI and the victim's family opposed the bail.

Kelly LeBrock made a rare public appearance at Lisa Vanderpumps annual Dog Gala, stepping away from her secluded ranch lifestyle to support animal welfare. The former Weird Science icon attended in a tailored blazer, leather pants, and cowboy boots, emphasizing her enduring style. Long retired from Hollywood following a difficult divorce, LeBrock currently lives in Santa Ynez.

In 2025, the Supreme Court of India witnessed a series of groundbreaking developments. An internal probe ignited impeachment proceedings against a judge from the Delhi High Court. Additionally, a presidential reference sparked a legal debate over the authority of governors and the President regarding the passage of bills.

In 2025, pre-retirees face money challenges with the stock market and AI investments. Experts say its smart to rebalance portfolios, delay Social Security, and keep some cash safe. Staying in work longer and using guaranteed income like pensions can protect savings. Planning for real retirement costs helps avoid surprises and keeps your money safer for the future.

Dozens of Brahmin BJP legislators met for a community dinner in Uttar Pradesh. This gathering is fueling political discussions about a possible cabinet reshuffle and changes within the party's state unit. Similar caste-based meetings have occurred previously. These events highlight the intersection of caste networks and party strategy as the 2027 elections approach.

Fans of singer Chris Brown are expressing anger. They purchased his new Auracles sneakers in late November. Many customers have not received their orders weeks later. Buyers expected delivery within days. The limited edition Nami Frequency Low Top sneakers cost $125. This situation has caused significant frustration among his fanbase.

Britain, Canada, Germany, and several other European nations have condemned Israel's approval of 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank. These countries stated that the settlements violate international law and risk fueling instability, urging Israel to reverse the decision.