News
National / The Economic Times
News headlines for December 8, 2025, highlight key national and global events. Airlines face scrutiny over flight disruptions. Delhi grapples with smog. India strengthens ties in semiconductors and medtech. International news includes cyclone devastation in Sri Lanka and an earthquake in Nepal. Sports updates feature IPL matches and the Ashes series.
Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi confirmed Operation Sindoor is ongoing. He stated the Indian military will retaliate strongly against any attacks on the country. This was proven during Operation Sindoor. The Navy Chief also attended the Armed Forces Flag Day Function in New Delhi. He expressed pride in the armed forces and thanked Delhi officials for their hospitality.
Flaxseed, also known as linseed, has long been celebrated for its numerous health benefits, but did you know it can also work wonders for your hair? Packed with essential nutrients, flaxseed offers natural solutions to strengthen hair, combat hair fall, and promote overall scalp health.
Congress MP Manish Tewari has proposed a bill to amend the Anti-Defection Law. This legislation aims to grant parliamentarians independent voting power on most bills and motions. The goal is to foster better lawmaking and free legislators from strict party whip directives. The bill seeks to empower elected representatives to act as true representatives of their constituents.
Delhi Police will increase patrols in party areas. Clubs, bars, and restaurants must check fire safety. This follows a deadly fire in Goa. Establishments need functional extinguishers and clear exits. Crowd density will be monitored. Venue owners and patrons emphasize safety. Authorities are strengthening checks for the festive period.
Akshaye Khanna, known for his subtle charm and versatile acting, has carved a niche in Bollywood with a series of memorable performances. From intense thrillers to emotional dramas, his films showcase his ability to bring complex characters to life.
A minor fire erupted Sunday at the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple complex. The blaze was spotted on a banyan tree near the holy fireplace. Fire and rescue personnel quickly extinguished the flames. Entry to the holy steps was briefly halted as a precaution. No injuries or damage were reported. Temple activities continued without disruption.
At a time when IndiGo is grappling with a massive crisis, a viral clip of Jaspal Bhatto, known for his satirical takes, is doing the rounds online. Several users who watched the viral clip commented that Bhattis satire felt like it was written for this year. The clip shows an uncanny similarities between his clip and ongoing Indigo flight disruptions.
Wordle originated as a modest personal project created by engineer Josh Wardle, who designed the puzzle as a heartfelt gift for his partner. What began as an intimate game shared between two people quickly blossomed into a global phenomenon, drawing millions of players each day eager to challenge their vocabulary and puzzle-solving instincts.
The UMEED Central Portal for Waqf Property management has successfully concluded its six-month upload window. This initiative aimed to digitize Waqf property data nationwide. The Ministry of Minority Affairs reported substantial progress, with many properties initiated and approved on the portal. The process saw accelerated uploads as the deadline neared, supported by extensive training and review meetings.
Cranberries offer a natural defense against urinary tract infections. These North American berries contain compounds that stop harmful bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract. Scientific studies show a significant reduction in infection rates, especially for women with recurring issues. Beyond UTIs, cranberries also boost heart and digestive health. Opt for low-sugar juices or supplements for maximum benefit.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar participated in the India-Japan Forum in New Delhi, discussing the evolving world order and the need for deeper cooperation. He highlighted potential in semiconductor collaboration, defense, and strengthening economic ties, aiming to boost resilient supply chains and people-to-people connections.
Morgue workers in London faced dangerously high toxic substance exposure from Air India crash victims' repatriated bodies. Senior coroner Fiona Wilcox warned of deadly gases, including formalin, carbon monoxide, and cyanide, after opening coffins. She urged immediate action to prevent future fatalities, highlighting inadequate mortuary preparedness for such hazardous remains.
October coal imports saw a mixed trend. Overall shipments fell as domestic supply increased. However, coking coal imports rose significantly. Steel mills restocked for winter. Future imports are expected to be subdued due to higher domestic production.
Calcium is one of the most important minerals for the human body. It plays a key role in building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, supporting muscle function, and aiding nerve signalling.
Goa Governor P Ashok Gajapathi Raju visited six victims of a nightclub fire at Goa Medical College and Hospital. The blaze claimed 25 lives in Arpora village. The Governor stated the injured are receiving the best care. He also mentioned the state government will review regulatory departments to prevent future incidents.
The OPPO Reno15 Pro is set for launch in India, featuring a powerful Dimensity 8450 chipset and ColorOS 16 to ensure long-lasting performance. Its impressive 200MP camera system, equipped with dual-sided stabilisation and AI live-streaming capabilities, is designed with content creators in mind. The device also boasts a premium design, advanced cooling for prolonged streaming sessions, and rapid charging support.
Filmmaker Palash Muchhal and cricketer Smriti Mandhana have confirmed their wedding is called off. Muchhal stated he is stepping back from the relationship and his team will take legal action against fake news. Mandhana also issued a statement requesting privacy for both families. Both have been discharged from hospital after falling ill. Their focus remains on their careers.
Gifting is considered a beautiful gesture, but according to Vastu Shastra, not every present brings good energy. Some gifts may unintentionally invite misunderstandings, emotional strain, or even financial blockages into someones life.
Cricketer Smriti Mandhana has officially confirmed that her wedding to singer/filmmaker Palash Mucchal has been called off, addressing weeks of speculation. She requested privacy for both families to process the situation and reiterated her unwavering commitment to her cricketing career and representing India.
Chinese fighter jets targeted Japanese aircraft with radar over international waters. Japan's Defence Ministry reported the incidents, calling them dangerous. China claims the flights were routine training. This event escalates existing tensions between China and Japan. Japan is closely monitoring Chinese military activities in the region.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar donated to the Ex-Servicemen Benevolent Fund on Armed Forces Flag Day, urging citizens to contribute generously. He honored the sacrifices of soldiers, emphasizing that donations support their welfare and rehabilitation. The CM highlighted the armed forces' bravery in confronting threats.
A daring jailbreak occurred at St. Landry Parish Jail. Three inmates carved a hole through a wall and escaped using bedsheets. One inmate was recaptured, another died by suicide, and one remains at large. Authorities are conducting an extensive manhunt for the fugitive. An internal investigation is underway regarding the jail's structural integrity and security protocols.
Anyone can build a mosque; no one is prohibited from doing so because temples and mosques are centres of faith for any religion. But no one has the right to spoil the atmosphere of this country... Those attempting to create such an environment cannot progress by damaging this strong democracy and the Ganga-Jamuni relationship in this country, the Bihar BJP chief told ANI.
Akshaye Khanna is dominating 2025 with powerful performances in 'Chhaava' and 'Dhurandhar'. His portrayal of Rehman Dakait in 'Dhurandhar' has particularly captivated audiences, with fans praising his screen presence and effortless charm. Khanna's deliberate avoidance of the spotlight and focus on talent has solidified his status as a respected actor.
Delhi's air quality plunged to 'very poor' with an AQI of 303, despite a slight improvement. Dense smog choked the city, reducing visibility significantly. Meanwhile, a cold wave brought the minimum temperature down to 8 degrees Celsius. The government is addressing pollution concerns, highlighting actions by the Commission for Air Quality Management.
Col Prateek Roy of the Indian Army was awarded the Geddes Gavel Award on completion of the Defence Strategic and Studies Course at Australian Defence College, the Indian High Commission in Canberra shared on Saturday.
Wrestling icon Paul Wight, known as Big Show, has sparked fan concern after a video showed him using his bag for support while walking.
After the high-voltage release of Dhurandhar, audiences are once again hooked to the world of espionage, covert missions, and geopolitical mind games. The 2025 Hindi-language spy action thriller directed by Aditya Dhar won the spotlight with its gripping storyline rooted in real-life incidents linked to Indias Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW).
How long can Sheikh Hasina stay in India? External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday said that former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas stay in India is a personal decision which depends on the certain circumstance that forced her to flee to New Delhi. He also highlighted Indias long-standing preference for a credible and democratic political process in Bangladesh.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Sunday ordered a magisterial inquiry into the nightclub fire in Arpora that killed 25 people shortly after midnight. The blaze broke out at Birch by Romeo Lane, a popular venue in Arpora village near Panaji.
Nepal experienced a magnitude 4.1 earthquake on Sunday morning. This follows earlier seismic activity, including a magnitude 4.2 tremor on November 30 and a magnitude 3.6 quake on November 6. Nepal's location on a convergent tectonic plate boundary makes it highly susceptible to such events.
Garena Free Fire players have a reason to be excited. Redeem codes for December 7, 2025, are now available. These codes allow gamers to unlock premium rewards for free. Players can obtain exclusive items that enhance gameplay and improve performance. Using these codes is a great opportunity to get valuable in-game items without spending money.
Navjot Singh Sidhu's return to active politics hinges on the Congress party naming him their chief ministerial candidate for Punjab. His wife stated that while they lack funds for political maneuvering, they can transform Punjab into a prosperous state.
Security forces in Pakistan's Balochistan province have successfully thwarted an attack on the Jaffar Express train. Insurgents had planted an explosive device on the tracks near Nasirabad. Law enforcement agencies quickly cordoned off the area and defused the bomb. This incident follows previous attacks on the same train, highlighting ongoing security concerns.
Former President Joe Biden's speech at the International LGBTQ+ Leaders Conference was overshadowed by a verbal slip, where he famously mispronounced America as Amerigotit. While accepting an award for his administration's LGBTQ+ advancements, Biden's rallying cry quickly went viral, drawing criticism and sparking debate about his fitness for office. Supporters attributed the gaffe to his lifelong stutter.
The Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister's offices in Jammu and Kashmir are in a dispute over a delayed age relaxation file for government job aspirants. The Chief Minister's office expressed concern over the uncertainty, while the Lieutenant Governor's office stated the file was returned with a query about the feasibility of last-minute eligibility changes for the upcoming exam.
The fifth and final season of Amazon Prime Video's satirical superhero series, 'The Boys', will premiere with its first two episodes on April 8. New episodes will roll out each week through the series finale on May 20, according to Variety.
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal stated Rahul Gandhi disrespects constitutional institutions. He cited Gandhi's absence from key events, including the Chief Justice of India's swearing-in. Meghwal also affirmed the government's commitment to securing constitutional recognition for the Rajasthani language.
Travel safety is a growing concern as global crime rates rise. The United States is considering expanding its travel ban to over 30 nations. This move highlights the importance of understanding crime trends in countries like Haiti, Papua New Guinea, and Venezuela. These nations face significant challenges from instability and organized crime, impacting both residents and potential visitors.
A fire broke out before dawn on Sunday at a boat-anchoring point on Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam, destroying more than ten fishing boats. The blaze started around 2:30 am near Kureepuzha church, close to the Ayyankovil temple. Officials said the cause is still not known, but no injuries were reported.
A Russian drone strike in February 2025 severely damaged the New Safe Confinement at Ukraine's Chernobyl nuclear site. The structure, designed to contain radioactive materials, is now compromised. While radiation levels remain stable, the incident heightens global nuclear safety concerns amid the ongoing conflict. Ukraine accuses Russia, which denies involvement. Temporary repairs are planned.
India's 22-year-old nuclear doctrine, based on 'no first use' and 'credible minimum deterrence', faces urgent re-evaluation. With aggressive neighbors rapidly expanding arsenals and rejecting NFU promises, the current policy risks unilateral disarmament. Modern warfare's speed and evolving threats necessitate a clear, updated doctrine to safeguard national interests.
India's strategic outreach to the Taliban regime is fostering renewed trade ties, particularly for Afghan traders like Mushtaq Karim in Delhi. Despite personal animosity towards the Taliban, these Afghans benefit from improved air-freight corridors and a resilient business relationship, crucial for their livelihoods and India's regional interests.
An inexperienced climber, Kerstin Gurtner, tragically froze to death near the summit of Austria's Grossglockner after her experienced boyfriend, Thomas Plamberger, allegedly abandoned her. Prosecutors state Plamberger, acting as the guide, left Gurtner hypothermic and disoriented, failing to call for help promptly. His defense claims it was a tragic accident.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth defended recent military strikes on drug cartel-linked boats, asserting President Trump's authority to act decisively to protect national interests. He likened drug traffickers to terrorist organizations, justifying the operations despite criticism and questions about international law.

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