The Economic Times News

The BJP has questioned Congress leader K C Venugopal's involvement in Karnataka's administrative matters concerning an eviction drive. Opposition leaders say that Karnataka's governance is by an elected chief minister and cabinet, not by party officials. They argue that such intervention is a blatant overreach and an insult to federalism.

The Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal is set to become operational nationwide. Benches have been formally allotted to 83 newly appointed members. These members are expected to join their respective benches by January 21, 2026. This development will enable the commencement of tax dispute resolution hearings shortly thereafter. State governments are arranging necessary space for immediate functioning.

India's space agency ISRO is building a third launch pad at its Shriharikota spaceport. This expansion is planned to accommodate larger satellites weighing over 14,000 kg. ISRO is currently selecting vendors for this significant project. The new launch pad is expected to be operational within four years. This development will enhance ISRO's capabilities for future space missions.

Congress plans a nationwide campaign to protect MGNREGA. Sachin Pilot announced the initiative on the party's foundation day. The campaign will begin soon to oppose alleged government efforts to weaken the rural employment scheme. Congress leaders aim to strengthen the party and present their views on various issues. The party emphasizes unity and its commitment to core values.

Netflix has cancelled its planned series adaptation of The Talisman. The project, developed by the Duffer Brothers, was years in the making. Adapting the fantasy novel proved more difficult than anticipated. This marks another setback for the long-troubled screen adaptation. However, Stephen King is working on a third book in the saga.

New Year celebrations today mix traditions and modern rituals. Fireworks, music, and gatherings mark hope and fresh beginnings. The January 1 date has a long history, from ancient Mesopotamia to Roman reforms. Julius Caesar and Pope Gregory XIII shaped the modern calendar. Many cultures still celebrate traditional New Years alongside the Gregorian calendar.

Four Army personnel sustained injuries during a firing practice session at the Badkala firing range on Saturday evening. An unexpected explosion occurred during routine exercises, prompting immediate medical attention for the injured soldiers. Two of the four personnel were later transferred to the district hospital due to their serious condition.

The student-led National Citizen Party (NCP), which was formed during the July Uprising last year, leading to the ousting of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has now found itself divided over alliance and seat-sharing discussions with the Islamic conservative party Jamaat-e-Islami for the upcoming national elections.

As 2026 begins, embrace new beginnings, fresh hopes, and endless possibilities. This new year offers renewed energy, positivity, and the promise of brighter days. Share heartfelt wishes, inspiring quotes, and warm messages with loved ones to celebrate this beautiful moment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated 2025 as a year of significant achievements for India. The nation saw proud milestones in national security, sports, and scientific innovation. India's armed forces conducted Operation Sindoor. The men's cricket team won the ICC Champions Trophy, and the women's cricket team secured the World Cup. India's daughters also won the Women's Blind T20 World Cup.

Telangana's Legislative Assembly winter session is set for a stormy start, dominated by a fierce war of words between the ruling Congress and opposition BRS over river water issues. The BRS plans agitation, while the Congress government challenges them to a debate, highlighting past performance and alleged betrayals.

Putrada Ekadashi, the final Ekadashi of 2025, falls on December 30, offering blessings for children, family happiness, and prosperity. Devotees observe a fast to remove life obstacles. Auspicious timings for worship include Brahma Muhurat and Abhijit Muhurat. Rituals involve Panchamrit Abhishek, offering betel leaves, bananas, and Tulsi to Lord Vishnu for career growth, financial stability, and abundance.

Congress leader Sachin Pilot asserted party unity amidst rumors sparked by Digvijaya Singh's remarks on the RSS's organizational prowess. Pilot clarified that while members have the right to express opinions, the collective goal is to strengthen the Congress organization and its leaders, Kharge and Rahul Gandhi.

The alliance between India and Africa is gaining momentum in defence cooperation. Prime Minister Modi's visit serves as a pivotal moment for deeper collaboration. With a focus on counter-terrorism and maritime security, the two sides are working to uplift Africa's defence capabilities.

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has raised concerns regarding the re-definition of the Aravalli Hills. He questions the new definition which restricts the hills to landforms with an elevation of 100 meters or more. Ramesh cites the Forest Survey of India's 2010 definition which included flatter areas and valleys.

Violence grips Bangladesh following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi. The Editors Council blames a section of the interim government for permitting attacks on media houses and cultural groups. Hadi's brother alleges a government plot to derail elections. Incidents of vandalism and explosions continue across the country, raising concerns about stability.

Jayshree Ullal, President and CEO of Arista Networks, has emerged as one of the wealthiest Indian-origin tech executives, surpassing prominent figures like Sundar Pichai and Satya Nadella. Her leadership transformed Arista into a major cloud networking solutions provider, with her personal fortune reaching approximately $5.7 billion.

Punjab and Haryana are experiencing severe cold, with Hisar recording the lowest minimum temperature at 2.5 degrees Celsius. Many areas were covered in thick fog, reducing visibility. Chandigarh recorded a low of 5.6 degrees Celsius, while Faridkot in Punjab was the coldest at 3.4 degrees Celsius.

Goa anticipates half a million tourists for New Year's Eve, with beaches and party spots buzzing. Despite a past tragedy, the state assures safety and a vibrant celebration. International chartered flights are arriving, and domestic visitors are flocking to popular spots, drawn by the festive atmosphere, seafood, and nightlife.

Garena Free Fire Max players can claim exclusive in-game items using 12-character alphanumeric redeem codes released regularly. These codes are time-limited and can only be used once. Players should visit the official redemption site, log in, and enter the code to claim their rewards promptly.

Congress leader Pawan Khera has criticized Digvijaya Singh for praising the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's organizational strength. Singh had shared a photograph of Narendra Modi and L.K. Advani, highlighting the RSS's grassroots to leadership progression. Khera countered by linking the RSS to Nathuram Godse, stating there is nothing to learn from the Sangh.

In 2025, Tripura became India's third fully literate state. The ruling BJP and Tipra Motha Party clashed over council elections. Security was heightened due to Bangladesh concerns. The state attracted investment and saw temple redevelopment. Law and order saw a reported dip in crime. A tragic accident claimed five lives.

The National Testing Agency has issued an important advisory for CUET UG 2026 candidates. The exam is scheduled for May 2026. Aspirants must ensure their Aadhaar details are updated. Discrepancies between Aadhaar and Class 10 certificates can be resolved during application. Information on courses, universities, and syllabus is available on the official NTA website.

A paragliding accident at Bir Billing claimed the life of an experienced pilot. The tandem paraglider malfunctioned shortly after takeoff. The pilot, Mohan Singh, died from injuries sustained in the crash. The accompanying tourist survived with injuries. An investigation is underway to determine the cause.

Kerala witnessed a significant 2025 marked by a gold loss row at Sabarimala, a major verdict in the actress assault case and shifts in political fortunes. The UDF gained ground in local polls, while the BJP made history in Thiruvananthapuram. Maritime accidents and the passing of former CM V S Achuthanandan also made news.

Violence erupted in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, during a protest against a coal mining project. Protesters clashed with police, resulting in injuries and the torching of vehicles. The mob also targeted a coal handling plant. Officials intervened, but the situation escalated.

A Trinamool Congress delegation met the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer, alleging that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive is a conspiracy to disenfranchise voters. TMC leaders criticized the Election Commission of India, calling it a 'WhatsApp Commission' and demanding accountability for alleged irregularities and the reported deaths of Booth Level Officers during the revision process.

Delhi experienced severely polluted air on December 28, with AQI levels reaching 391 and bordering the 'Severe' category. Thick smog enveloped the city, reducing visibility and impacting multiple areas, including Akshardham and Anand Vihar, which recorded 'Severe' AQI. Unfavorable weather conditions, including cold temperatures and fog, exacerbated the persistent winter pollution across the National Capital Region.

Delhi's government is banning tandoors in a desperate attempt to combat smog, a move the author argues distracts from real solutions like vehicular emissions and stubble burning. This mirrors historical blame placed on the poor for London's fogs, highlighting a pattern of sacrificing popular professions over addressing systemic issues.

BJP workers in Indore protested against the alleged atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh. They expressed anger and sadness over the events. A letter will be sent to the Swedish government to withdraw the Nobel Peace Prize from Muhammad Yunus. The central government is intervening diplomatically. Similar protests occurred in London outside the Bangladesh High Commission.

Assam's Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah has approved key decisions. These include land settlements for indigenous families, modernising revenue administration with digital hearings, and allotting land for a spiritual centre. Infrastructure development will be boosted with a NABARD loan for road projects. Police promotions will now be merit-based.

Kyiv endured a massive Russian missile and drone attack, killing at least one and wounding 27, just before President Zelenskyy's talks with U.S. President Trump. The strikes targeted energy infrastructure and residential buildings, prompting Poland to scramble fighter jets. Russia also claimed territorial gains in eastern Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will meet Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday. Zelensky seeks Trump's approval for a new peace plan to end the nearly four-year conflict with Russia. The proposal emerged from US-Ukraine talks but lacks Moscow's backing. This meeting follows a major Russian attack on Kyiv. European leaders have pledged support for Zelensky's peace efforts.

The protesters said many families have been living in uncertainty for years due to alleged enforced disappearances. They described the situation as a serious humanitarian crisis, saying the prolonged lack of information has caused severe mental anguish to parents, wives and children of the missing persons.

The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of concerns regarding the Aravalli Range's definition, following criticism over a new 100-meter height criterion. Environmentalists warn this could permit mining in the fragile ecosystem, impacting water, food, and climate security for millions. They demand the new definition be withdrawn pending scientific assessment and public consultation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky labeled Russian leader Vladimir Putin a man of war following a significant aerial assault on Kyiv. Zelensky, preparing for talks with US President Donald Trump, emphasized the need for strong battlefield and diplomatic positions to achieve a just end to the conflict.

Janshakti Janata Dal president Tej Pratap Yadav demanded an investigation into claims of a basement at Rabri Devi's new Patna residence. Simultaneously, he sought security, alleging threats from a recently expelled party member who he claims has issued death threats on social media.

Google searches in 2025 show Indians sought answers to new terms impacting their lives. From 'Operation Sindoor' to 'Mock Drills', people used Google to understand daily events. Popular searches included 'Waqf Bill' and 'Factorial of 100'. Tragedies like the Pahalgam terror attack and Air India crash led to searches for 'ceasefire' and 'Mayday meaning'.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a specific calendar to distribute the 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). For the majority of the 75 million beneficiaries, the first increased payment arrives in January 2026. However, the exact day depends on your date of birth. If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th, your check arrives on January 14. Those born between the 11th and 20th will see their raise on January 21.

The year 2025 will be remembered for its severe climate upheavals, leading to a staggering $120 billion in global damage. From sweltering heatwaves to rampant wildfires, countless nations found themselves in dire straits. California stood out with the highest financial toll due to its devastating fires. In the East, Southeast Asia and China faced heartbreaking floods that left communities reeling.

China's industrial profits saw a significant drop in November, the fastest in over a year. This decline highlights weak domestic demand, despite strong exports. The situation points to a slowing economic recovery. Experts suggest more policy support is needed to boost consumption and overall growth.

US President Donald Trump has called on the Justice Department to expose Democrats associated with Jeffrey Epstein. This comes as millions of documents related to the late sex offender are being reviewed and released. The latest disclosures include details of Trump's past flights on Epstein's private jet. Trump has previously distanced himself from Epstein.

Social Security benefits will increase by 2.8% in 2026 to help 75 million Americans fight inflation. This Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) boosts monthly checks for retirees, disabled workers, and SSI recipients. Most beneficiaries will see higher payments starting in January. However, SSI recipients get their first raise on December 31, 2025, due to the New Years Day holiday.