The Economic Times News

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.

A 34-year legal battle for ITDC employee D K Sharma concluded with the Supreme Court ruling in his family's favor, awarding 50% of his back wages. Sharma, terminated in 1991, passed away last year before the final verdict. The court acknowledged his claim of not being gainfully employed, upholding a High Court single bench's decision.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled Guwahati's 'Jyoti-Bishnu Antarjatik Kala Mandir', the North East's largest auditorium, on Monday. This Rs 291 crore facility boasts a 5,000-spectator capacity, convention centre, and advanced amenities, all powered by solar energy. Shah will also honor 1,000 beneficiaries of a heart disease program at the venue.

Panic gripped Piprauli village after raita served at a funeral was made from milk of a buffalo that later died from rabies-like symptoms. Nearly 200 villagers rushed for rabies vaccinations as a precautionary measure. Health officials confirmed no illness has spread and vaccinations were a preventive step. The community health centre remained open to manage the rush.

Bengaluru police have deployed nearly 20,000 personnel for New Year's Eve, focusing on crowd control and public safety, especially for women. Enhanced surveillance, including AI-enabled cameras and drone monitoring, will be in place. Traffic restrictions and dedicated women's help desks are among the measures to ensure a safe celebration.

Right-wing activists disrupted a private birthday party in Bareilly. They allegedly assaulted guests and raised 'love jihad' slogans. The incident occurred after objecting to the presence of Muslim students. Police initially fined some individuals. Following social media outrage, an FIR was registered against the attackers. A departmental inquiry is underway against the SHO. Claims of 'love jihad' were found untrue.

The Congress party has reversed its decision to contest the Mumbai civic elections alone. Days before nominations, the party joined hands with Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, allocating them 62 seats. This move has surprised many within the party. The Congress aims to forge a new political path in Maharashtra, moving away from being a junior partner in alliances.

A power department driver was tragically crushed to death when a truck carrying wooden scrap overturned onto his government vehicle on the Nainital Highway in Rampur. The severe crash flattened the Bolero, causing significant traffic disruption and prompting a massive rescue operation. The truck driver fled the scene, and an investigation is underway.

IPL founder Lalit Modi has apologized for his remarks about being a fugitive. He stated his comments were misconstrued. Modi and Vijay Mallya face legal challenges in India over financial allegations. India is committed to bringing back economic fugitives. Mallya is currently in the UK facing extradition proceedings and bankruptcy orders.

Russia's Kremlin has demanded Ukraine withdraw its forces from occupied Donbas territories. A phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump is expected very soon. The leaders spoke on Sunday before Trump's meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Russia currently controls significant portions of Ukraine, including Crimea.

China has launched its largest war games around Taiwan, named 'Justice Mission 2025'. These drills aim to demonstrate Beijing's capability to isolate the island during a conflict. This action escalates existing military tensions between China and Taiwan. Previous exercises have also occurred in response to political events involving Taiwan and the United States.

The Defence Acquisition Council has approved significant procurement proposals totaling approximately Rs 79,000 crore. These acquisitions will bolster the capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Modern weaponry and systems are being acquired to enhance precision strike, surveillance, communication, and pilot training. These advancements aim to strengthen national defence preparedness across all three services.

A parliamentary panel on defence discussed ex-servicemen's rehabilitation, noting only 1.9% are absorbed in government jobs despite a higher quota. Concerns were raised about ex-servicemen facing treatment issues at military hospitals and private facilities due to uncleared dues. The inadequacy of the Rs 75,000 limit for cancer and kidney treatment was also highlighted.

Canadian pop sensation Justin Bieber describes his mind as crazy and uts, explaining that his thought process is non-stop and differs from what he considers normal. The 31-year-old pop star's musical journey began with self-taught skills and a breakout hit in 2009, leading to international success, numerous accolades and awards.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated the BJP's commitment to removing infiltrators nationwide. He highlighted the redevelopment of Batadrava Than in Nagaon, Assam, as proof of this resolve. Shah criticized past Congress governments for allegedly treating infiltrators as a vote bank. He also praised Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for clearing encroachments and re-establishing the sacred Namghar at the site.

Delhi Police arrested five individuals for a Rs 12 crore property scam involving a non-existent luxury property at DLF Camellias. The organized racket used forged auction documents to defraud victims, with the syndicate suspected of cheating over Rs 200 crore nationwide. The mastermind, Mohit Gogia, and four associates were apprehended.

The Supreme Court has halted the Delhi High Court's order to suspend the life sentence of Kuldeep Sengar. This decision means Sengar will remain in jail. The court noted Sengar is imprisoned for another offense.

Elon Musk's concern over rising silver prices highlights a critical industrial supply-demand imbalance. Accelerating demand from solar, EVs, and tech, coupled with constrained supply due to its byproduct nature, is driving a significant rally. While manufacturers explore substitution, structural deficits and long lead times for new supply suggest elevated prices will persist.

South Korea's former first lady Kim Keon Hee faces accusations of accepting over $200,000 in bribes and illegally intervening in state affairs. Prosecutors concluded their investigation, alleging abuses of power and secret meddling. Kim, who denies all charges, is awaiting a verdict and sentencing on January 28.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Rs 227-crore redeveloped Batadrava Than, the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva, in Assam's Nagaon district. The project aims to make the historic site a major tourist attraction, reflecting Sankardeva's life and Assam's cultural heritage. This initiative strengthens the commitment to preserving the state's satras, namghars, and cultural traditions.

Bhutan's Sonam Yeshey has made history. The 22-year-old spinner took eight wickets in a T20 international match. He achieved this remarkable feat against Myanmar. Yeshey's performance helped Bhutan secure an 82-run victory. This sets a new record for the most wickets taken by a bowler in this format. The previous record was seven wickets.

The Bombay High Court has ordered a local court to speed up trials for a Yemen national facing narcotics charges. Detaining him in India is proving costly for the government. The court wants the cases resolved within three months. The accused sought visa extension, and the government will process it within three weeks.

China will reduce import duties on several products starting next year. This includes materials for lithium-ion batteries and medical supplies. The country is also lowering tariffs on 925 items. These adjustments aim to benefit trade and access to essential goods. The move signals a shift in China's trade policy for the upcoming year.

A Singapore man borrowed S$250,000. High interest rates caused the debt to surge to S$21 million. He sold his home to the lender's director and rented it back. The High Court has ordered a retrial to investigate the loan and rental agreements for potential illegality. This case highlights concerns about usurious lending practices.

Delhi's air quality is set to improve with a new strategy from the Commission for Air Quality Management. The plan aims for more clear sky days in the next three to four years. Stricter rules for industries and vehicles are being implemented. Crop stubble burning will also be monitored in the rabi season.

Pracha further asserted that the apex court had not examined the core merits of the case. The court did not hear us on the main merits. CBI has just discussed the iceberg of the case; we have the entire matter with us. CBI did not make us a party in this case. We cannot treat this judgment as a victory for the victim, he added.

A man faces two murder charges after a couple was found dead near their car on a rural Alberta road. Police identified the suspect as Curtis Phillip Halladay, who was known to the victims. He was apprehended the same day. An alert warned the public about an armed individual until his arrest.

A 24-year-old MBA student from Tripura died in Dehradun after a stabbing, allegedly triggered by racial abuse. Anjel Chakma was attacked by a group of men who hurled slurs, leading to a fatal assault. His death has sparked anger and calls for justice in Tripura.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Rs 227 crore redeveloped Batadrava Than, the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva, in Assam's Nagaon district. The project aims to boost tourism and showcase the life and artistic heritage of the Vaishnavite saint. This initiative underscores a commitment to preserving Assam's cultural heritage.

Michael Jordan's journey from humble beginnings to basketball legend underscores that success stems from relentless effort, not just innate talent or opportunity. His career, marked by overcoming setbacks and an unwavering commitment to improvement, demonstrates that preparation, mindset, and execution are paramount.

A Chinese billionaire, Xu Bo, aims to build a 'dynasty of successors' in the US, reportedly fathering at least 20 American-born children via surrogacy to inherit his $1.1 billion fortune. While his company denies claims of over 100 children, it confirms 12 born in the US. This trend mirrors other wealthy individuals expanding their legacies.

Rahul Gandhi condemned the killing of Anjel Chakma in Dehradun. He blamed the BJP for normalizing hate. The incident involved an attack on Anjel Chakma and his brother Michael Chakma. Anjel Chakma died from his injuries.

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is relocating from Astoria to Gracie Mansion. His new home is in the affluent Upper East Side, a stark contrast to his former neighborhood. Mamdani, a democratic socialist, faces a community that voted against him. He acknowledges the move and expresses curiosity about his new surroundings.

Tipra Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma announced a Rs 10 lakh reward for information leading to the arrest of the main accused in the Anjel Chakma murder case. This significantly surpasses the Uttarakhand government's Rs 25,000 reward. The TTAADC also announced Rs 3 lakh compensation for the deceased's family.

China made a warning against external forces backing Taiwan on Monday after launching live-fire drills around the island that it said would simulate a blockade of its key ports. External forces attempting to use Taiwan to contain China and arm Taiwan will only embolden pro-independence arrogance and push the Taiwan Strait into a perilous situation of imminent war, Lin said.

The Supreme Court has put on hold the Modi government's redefinition of the Aravalli Hills. This move comes after opposition from various bodies. A new expert committee will now study the issue. The court has also sought responses from the Centre and four Aravalli states.

Russia's manufacturing sector saw its sharpest decline since March 2022 in December. Output and new orders fell significantly. Employment also contracted. Input costs rose at their fastest pace. Manufacturers increased selling prices. Future output optimism reached its lowest point since May 2022. Demand remained weak.

Indian cricket saw a year of highs and lows in 2025. The women's team achieved a historic World Cup victory. The men's team dominated white-ball cricket, winning key tournaments. However, the men's Test team suffered a significant home series defeat. The IPL and WPL continued their financial success. The year highlighted both achievements and areas needing improvement.