The Economic Times News

Weight loss ChatGPT prompt: A tech professional achieved a 27kg weight loss in three months by using ChatGPT as a personal fitness guide. He relied on daily discipline and structured AI prompts for meal planning, workouts, habit tracking, and mindset, demonstrating a practical, low-cost approach to significant health transformation.

The fifth and final Ashes Test between Australia and England is set for Sydney. Australia has named its squad, with Steve Smith captaining. Usman Khawaja will retire after this match. England has also announced its squad, including new players. This series finale promises exciting cricket. Fans can watch the match live across various regions.

Indore is facing a serious public health crisis. Contaminated water in Bhagirathpura has caused multiple deaths and left numerous residents ill. Political leaders have criticised the administrations handling of the situation. Authorities have identified a leaking pipeline and a toilet constructed above it as the primary causes. Many people remain hospitalised, and investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the contamination.

A former corporator has accused ex-Chief Minister Ashok Chavan of selling election tickets for money. The accusation comes amid widespread discontent over candidate selections for the upcoming Maharashtra civic polls. Chavan has rejected the allegations, stating he has never sought money for tickets. The elections for 29 municipal corporations are scheduled for January 15.

Adani Group's senior executive Jugeshinder Singh stated the conglomerate sees its assets as a sacred trust. The group is committed to India's infrastructure for the next ten years. Adani Green Energy and Adani Power are key to the energy transition. Adani Ports manages significant cargo. Adani Energy Solutions and Adani Cement build modern India. Financial discipline and governance are priorities.

United States President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Iran. He declared that America is prepared to intervene if Iranian security forces violently suppress peaceful protesters. This statement comes amid widespread demonstrations across Iran over economic difficulties.

OPPO will launch its new Reno15 Series in India on January 8. The lineup focuses on cameras, with Pro models boasting a 200MP main camera. New AI tools will enhance photography. Expected features include powerful chipsets and fast charging.

In a surprising twist, UK house prices dipped in December, signaling the slowest annual growth since April 2024. While many economists anticipated a modest rise, mortgage approvals remain stable. The silver lining? Improving affordability thanks to lower interest rates.

Is MTV shutting down? On December 31, MTV shut down a number of its music-only channels which left the netizens in a state of shock. However, even with the closure of these channels, MTV isn't completely disappearing. MTV first debuted in the United States on August 1, 1981 and was very popular among millenials.

Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale has stepped down as co-captain following his separation from wife Julie. He expressed deep regret for the impact on his family and the club, acknowledging his leadership responsibilities. Neale, a two-time Brownlow Medal winner, is focusing on personal matters and rebuilding trust, with his contract running until 2026.

Elections for 12 zilla parishads and 125 panchayat samitis in Maharashtra are expected in early February. The State Election Commission will announce dates next week after reviewing preparations. This schedule aims to conclude before Class 12 exams begin on February 10. The polls will proceed for these bodies, excluding those exceeding reservation limits, as directed by the Supreme Court.

Indore water contamination: Bacterial contamination has been confirmed in Bhagirathpura's water supply after 26 out of 50 tested samples showed harmful bacteria. The Indore Municipal Corporation has sealed a leakage near the police outpost and dismantled a toilet built above the pipeline. Residents are urged to avoid tap water for drinking and use water tankers instead, with continuous testing underway to ensure safety.

CBSE has set the practical examination window from January 1 to February 14, 2026, emphasizing their crucial role in final results. Schools must upload marks on the same day of the exam, as they are final. All necessary resources and specially appointed examiners are mandated, with no exemptions for sports participants.

The history of Black Orlov Diamond, also known as Eye of Brahma diamond, has continued to fascinate historians and jewellers as it remains shrouded in mystery. It is believed that the diamond was stolen from Hindu deity in India and was sold at an auction in New York for a hefty amount. The Black Orlov diamond is allegedly linked to deaths of European diamond dealer named J. W. Paris and Russian princesses.

A significant construction milestone has been reached for India's first high-speed rail project. A mountain tunnel in Maharashtra's Palghar district has been successfully breached. This marks progress on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train. The project will connect 12 stations. Construction of bridges and viaducts is also advancing. The bullet train aims to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has alerted the IT Minister to a disturbing trend on social media, particularly X, where AI tools are allegedly used with fake accounts to create and share explicit images of women. She highlighted the violation of privacy and urged immediate government action to protect women's digital safety and dignity from such criminal misuse.

Archaeologists unearthed rare lapis lazuli stones and bronze coins dating back to the Kushan era at Pakistan's Bhir Mound, a UNESCO site near Taxila. The coins, featuring Emperor Vasudeva and a female deity, highlight the region's historical significance and religious pluralism. The lapis lazuli fragments suggest extensive ancient trade networks.

Today's word of the day is Ambedo describes a quiet, immersive awareness of the present moment. Ambedo captures those small, absorbed moments of noticing life without urgency, giving language to stillness often overlooked.

A devastating fire explosion in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, has claimed many lives and injured over a hundred people. Emergency services responded swiftly to the blaze at the 'Le Constellation' bar. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause, with a 'flashover' phenomenon being a primary theory. World leaders have offered condolences and solidarity to Switzerland during this tragic time.

A fatal clash erupted in Ballari between supporters of Congress MLA Nara Bharath Reddy and BJP MLA G Janardhana Reddy over a banner dispute. The altercation escalated to stone-pelting and firing, resulting in the death of 26-year-old Rajshekhar. Police have registered multiple cases, including murder, and are investigating the incident.

Police have launched an inquiry into a cricketer displaying the Palestinian flag on his helmet during a private match in Jammu. The incident occurred during the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League. Authorities are investigating the player's intent and background due to the matter's sensitivity. This follows another controversy involving a collapsed private cricket league.

The Staff Selection Commission has announced new exam dates for Delhi Police Constable candidates affected by technical issues during slot booking. These rescheduled exams will take place on January 4, 5, and 6, 2026. Admit cards will be available two to three days prior to the respective exam dates.

Haryana's sex ratio at birth reached 923 girls per 1,000 boys in 2025. This marks an improvement following strict enforcement against sex-selective abortions and illegal MTP kits. Officials attribute the rise to a dedicated task force and intensified crackdowns. While progress is noted, vigilance continues in vulnerable districts.

Magh Mela 2026: The Magh Mela 2026 will take place in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj which will commence from January 3 and will continue till Mahashivratri. The Mela will continue for 45 days and is expected to attract 15 crore devotees with the administration laying out traffic diversions for the same. Special trains will also run for pilgrims as Magh Mela commences tomorrow.

All India Imam Association President Maulana Sajid Rashidi demanded government action against Devkinandan Thakur for his criticism of Shah Rukh Khan's KKR team for including a Bangladeshi player. Rashidi highlighted sports and films transcending borders and praised Khan and Salman Khan's charity work, while also questioning targeted attacks on Muslims in India.

The Asian Development Bank has agreed to provide a loan of Rs 4,100 crore to Telangana for the Musi River Development Project. This funding will support parts of Phase-I of the project. The state government is also seeking Rs 3,188 crore from the National River Conservation Plan.

Nike and Adidas are set for a fierce battle on and off the pitch during the upcoming FIFA World Cup in North America. With the tournament hosted in its home market, Nike, led by CEO Elliot Hill, aims to leverage its strong North American presence and star athlete roster.

More than 500 women are suing Chesapeake Regional Medical Center and its leaders. They claim hospital executives knew about doctor Javaid Perwaiz's unnecessary surgeries but did nothing. Perwaiz is already in prison for medical fraud. The women suffered severe harm and trauma from these procedures. The lawsuit seeks significant compensation for the alleged negligence.

The Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos are strengthening their mid-size SUV positions with advanced features and updated interiors. The new Tata Sierra enters with competitive pricing and multiple powertrain options, offering a wide spectrum of choices for buyers. All three models cater to diverse budgets and preferences in the segment.

Assam is now India's fastest-growing state economy. Its economy expanded by 45 percent between 2000 and 2025. This growth is well above the national average. Assam will participate in the World Economic Forum in Davos. The state expects significant investment in mobile phone manufacturing units. This recognition highlights Assam's economic progress.

Indore water contamination: Indores water crisis has drawn attention to Delhis worrying lack of accredited water testing laboratories, with only two of more than 25 public facilities meeting global standards. The shortfall raises serious public health concerns, particularly in light of recent cholera spikes and inconsistencies in sewage treatment data. The situation underlines the urgent need for reliable water quality testing across urban India.

Ahead of Jalna's civic elections, Mahayuti allies BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP are fielding a significant number of Muslim candidates, a shift attributed partly to former Congress MLA Kailash Gorantyal joining the BJP. The opposition Mahavikas Aghadi also includes Muslim candidates, while AIMIM aims to capitalize on Muslim voter aspirations with its own slate.

Umar Khalid case: Eight US lawmakers have urged India's Ambassador to the US to ensure a fair and timely trial for Umar Khalid, who has been detained for nearly five years under the UAPA. They expressed concerns that his prolonged detention may violate international due process standards. The lawmakers' letter follows a supportive message from New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

The Indian Army's Romeo Force, alongside the SOG Poonch, intensified night search operations in the Pir Panjal ranges, operating above 13,000 feet despite heavy snowfall and extreme cold. Counterterrorism operations have also been heightened in Kishtwar and Doda districts, with security forces adopting a proactive winter posture to neutralize threats and ensure civilian safety along the Line of Control.

Delhi weather forecast: Delhi might continue to witness cold day conditions from January 2 to January 5, the IMD has warned. The temperatures are expected to dip further in the national capital as dense fog continues to engulf the national capital. The weather office has issued an orange alert for Delhi and has warned of dense fog.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrives in Sri Vijaya Puram on Friday for a three-day visit. He will chair a crucial meeting of the parliamentary consultative committee on Saturday. Shah will also attend an event on Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan is also visiting. Security has been heightened across the islands.

Pongal, a vibrant harvest festival, will be celebrated in Tamil Nadu from January 13 to 17. This four-day event honors Surya, the Sun God, and signifies prosperity. Each day holds unique traditions, from spiritual cleansing on Bhogi to honoring cattle on Mattu Pongal. Families gather to cook traditional dishes, express gratitude, and strengthen community bonds.

Rainer Maria Rilke's profound quote, No feeling is final, encourages acceptance of life's complexities, both beauty and terror. His words offer quiet strength, reminding us that intense emotions are temporary and that resilience grows through embracing them. This message resonates today, offering solace in uncertainty and emphasizing the importance of simply continuing forward.

Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch warns of potential Chinese military deployment in Balochistan within months due to the deepening China-Pakistan alliance and CPEC's final stages. He highlighted decades of repression in Balochistan and stated that Chinese troops without local consent would threaten India and Balochistan's future.

Venus Williams is set to compete at the Australian Open after receiving a wildcard. This marks her return to Melbourne Park after a five-year absence. The seven-time Grand Slam champion will also play at the Hobart International. Williams will be the oldest woman to feature in the Australian Open main draw.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani's handwritten letter to Delhi riots accused Umar Khalid has gone viral on social. The letter, posted by Umar Khalid's partner on X, reads 'Dear Umar, we are all thinking of you'. The letter was handed to Khalid's parents when they went to visit their daughter in the United States.

Garena Free Fire Max players can obtain in-game items using 12-character alphanumeric redeem codes released frequently. These codes are time-limited and can only be used once. To redeem, visit reward.ff.garena.com, log in, enter the code, and confirm to claim rewards.

In Chomu, Jaipur, authorities demolished illegal structures linked to individuals involved in recent stone-pelting violence near a mosque. This action follows the arrest of several accused rioters. The municipal council initiated the drive to clear encroachments, with police ensuring law and order during the operation.

Indore water contamination: Indore, India's cleanest city, faces a health crisis. Contaminated water in Bhagirathpura caused a severe outbreak of diarrhoea and vomiting. Over 1,100 people were affected, with several deaths reported. Authorities have acknowledged lapses and promised strict action. Emergency medical teams are deployed, and clean water is being supplied. The High Court has ordered a detailed report and immediate relief measures.

A fierce clash erupted in Ballari between Congress MLA Nara Bharath Reddy and BJP MLA G Janardhana Reddy. Supporters clashed over a banner for a Valmiki statue installation. The dispute escalated to hand-to-hand combat and stone-pelting. Police intervened with a lathi-charge. Both MLAs rushed to the city. An FIR has been registered against 11 people, including Janardhana Reddy and Sriramulu.

Widespread protests have erupted across Iran, fueled by a severe economic downturn, rising prices, and a depreciating currency. Merchants, shop owners, and students have taken to the streets, leading to clashes with security forces and fatalities in several provinces. The demonstrations, the largest in three years, have disrupted daily life and put pressure on the country's leadership.