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National / The Times of India
India and Russia are set to significantly boost nuclear energy collaboration following President Putin's visit. Discussions focused on constructing a second Russian-designed nuclear power plant, with India committed to finalizing site allocation. The agreement also encompasses expanding cooperation in fuel cycle, lifecycle support for Kudankulam, and peaceful atomic energy applications.
Undeterred by global pressures, Russia has commenced nuclear fuel deliveries for Kudankulam's third unit, reinforcing its commitment to uninterrupted energy cooperation with India. This marks the first VVER-1000 fuel shipment under a new contract, promising extended operational cycles and improved performance for India's growing nuclear power capacity.
India and Russia have pledged to boost joint efforts on climate action, aligning with global UN goals and the Paris Agreement. Both nations will collaborate on increasing climate finance and technology access for developing countries. They also agreed to intensify dialogue on carbon trading, low-carbon technologies, and sustainable finance, while continuing cooperation within G20, Brics, and SCO.
Tezpur University faces turmoil as senior professor Dhruba Bhattacharyya takes charge as acting vice-chancellor, citing university statutes. This move follows a controversial board meeting where a pro-VC was reportedly appointed, sparking student and faculty protests against the absent VC, Shambhu Nath Singh, over alleged corruption and mismanagement. Bhattacharyya aims to resume academic activities and exams.
Interpol-wanted wildlife trafficker Yangchen Lachungpa, a decade-long fugitive, was apprehended in a remote Sikkim village. Her arrest, following a complex operation, marks a significant breakthrough in combating international wildlife smuggling. Authorities believe her network linked Indian tiger reserves to Nepal, Tibet, and China, dealing in various endangered species parts.
Tragedy struck India's cheetah reintroduction project as a 10-month-old cub died in Kuno National Park just a day after its 'historic' release. The cub, separated from its mother Veera and sibling, was found dead Friday. Officials are awaiting an autopsy to determine the cause, while the mother and remaining cub are reportedly safe and monitored closely.
Jammu and Kashmir's State Investigation Agency conducted raids in Srinagar and Ganderbal, targeting a white-collar terror network. Investigations into an inter-state module led to the search of an AC technician's residence and another individual's home, uncovering links to weapons and a Jaish-e-Mohammad module involving doctors.
Russian President Vladimir Putin invoked India's 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' slogan, stating it reflects the true character of India-Russia relations. He emphasized cooperation in the Eurasian space to build peace, trust, and security for all, highlighting the strategic and people-centric nature of their partnership.
President Droupadi Murmu hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin for a grand state banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan, concluding his two-day visit. The event featured a curated menu of Indian delicacies and a musical celebration blending Indian classical and Russian melodies, reinforcing diplomatic and cultural ties.
India and Russia have pledged to boost their joint efforts in implementing climate actions under UN frameworks, including the Paris Agreement. Both nations will collaborate on increasing access to climate finance and technologies for developing countries and economies in transition. They also agreed to intensify bilateral dialogue on carbon trade mechanisms and low-carbon technologies.
Prime Minister Modi presented President Putin with culturally significant gifts, including Assam Black Tea, an ornate silver tea set, a silver horse, a marble chess set, Kashmiri saffron, and a Russian translation of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita. These gifts underscore the enduring friendship and shared cultural values between India and Russia, complementing discussions on deepening bilateral relations and strategic partnerships.
Congress leaders criticized MP Shashi Tharoor for accepting an invitation to a Presidential dinner for Vladimir Putin, while Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge were excluded. Leaders questioned the government's intentions and Tharoor's decision, highlighting a perceived snub to the opposition and a departure from democratic traditions.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha to criminalise marital rape. The proposed law aims to remove the current exception that allows non-consensual sex within marriage. Tharoor stressed the urgent need to uphold women's rights and constitutional values. The bill seeks to amend the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Indian Railways has deployed 116 extra coaches across 37 trains to ease passenger travel disruptions caused by the IndiGo flight crisis. Northern Railways is also running five special trains to manage the increased demand. This initiative aims to accommodate the unexpected surge in travelers seeking alternative routes, with various coach types added based on route needs.
MacKenzie Scott has significantly reduced her Amazon stake, donating billions to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Her recent $80 million gift to Howard University highlights her focus on substantial contributions to DEI and disaster relief causes. Despite these large donations, Scott remains a prominent philanthropist.
Anmol Bishnoi, brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has been remanded to NIA custody for another seven days. Deported from the US, Bishnoi faces allegations of hatching a conspiracy with Babbar Khalsa International for terror acts. The court also allowed the NIA to collect his voice and handwriting samples.
The Civil Aviation Ministry has directed airlines, particularly IndiGo, to resolve large-scale disruptions and restore services promptly. Flight schedules are expected to stabilize by midnight and fully normalize within days, with passengers able to track delays from home.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic gestures towards Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the significance of symbolic actions in foreign policy. Tharoor emphasized that these gestures, including receiving Putin at the airport and gifting him the Bhagwad Gita, signal the continuity of India's important relationship with Russia.
Prime Minister Modi and President Putin held crucial talks, with India asserting it's not eutral on the Ukraine war, advocating for peace. Modi highlighted continuous contact and trust during the crisis. Putin briefed on peace efforts, acknowledging India's profound support and personal attention from the PM. Discussions also covered space and AI advancements.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's specially modified Ilyushin Il-80, dubbed the Flying Kremlin, became the world's most tracked flight en route to Delhi. This secure airborne command center, designed for extreme conditions and equipped with advanced communication and defensive systems, underscores Russia's strategic leadership protection.
Rahul Gandhi criticizes the government's monopoly model for the IndiGo disruption, stating ordinary citizens bear the cost through delays and cancellations. The airline's operational challenges have led to widespread flight disruptions, prompting political concern and a Rajya Sabha notice urging the Civil Aviation Minister to address the issue and prevent future incidents.
The Indian Air Force commemorated its pivotal role on December 5, 1971, the third day of the war. IAF operations crippled Pakistan's western defenses and devastated enemy airfields. In the east, air superiority paved the way for India's rapid advance, leading to Bangladesh's birth. The Battle of Longewala also saw IAF Hunters decisively halt a Pakistani armored thrust, securing Jaisalmer.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's packed second day in Delhi includes a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and a visit to Rajghat. Prime Minister Modi and Putin will hold crucial bilateral talks at Hyderabad House, focusing on defense deals like S-400s and Su-57s, nuclear energy, and broader cooperation. Several agreements are anticipated.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin to India with a warm gesture, presenting him with a copy of the Bhagavad Gita in Russian. The two leaders engaged in a friendly interaction at the airport before heading to a private dinner. Putin's visit includes bilateral talks, business forums, and a tribute at Rajghat.
A nationwide air travel crisis, primarily involving IndiGo, has left thousands stranded. Mumbai City FC's journey to a Super Cup semi-final was severely impacted by cancellations and delays. Passengers faced prolonged waits, exorbitant fares, and missed crucial events, highlighting widespread disruption across major Indian cities.
Trinamool Congress has suspended MLA Humayun Kabir for his controversial plan to lay the foundation of a mosque on December 6, the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition. Despite the party's action, Kabir remains defiant, vowing to proceed with the plan and launch his own political party. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee emphasized unity, stating that disruptive elements would be removed.
India witnessed a grim rise in road fatalities in 2024, with 1.77 lakh deaths, averaging 485 daily. While National Highways showed a slight decrease in their share of accidents, overall deaths climbed 2.3% from the previous year. Experts emphasize the need for education and broader awareness campaigns to combat this crisis.
India and Russia are deepening their defense ties, focusing on niche technologies and industrial cooperation. Despite global pressures, New Delhi reaffirms its strategic autonomy. Discussions included S-400 systems, Sukhoi upgrades, and BrahMos missile advancements, underscoring a commitment to bolstering India's indigenous defense capabilities and maintaining a strong partnership with Moscow.
President Putin's visit to New Delhi has transformed key areas into a heavily fortified zone, mirroring G20 security measures. His custom-built Aurus Senat limousine, a olling bunker, was flown in for his protection. A five-layer security grid, combining Russian and Indian elite forces, ensures his safety, with snipers and anti-drone systems deployed.
Rajasthan high court affirmed that two consenting adults, even below marriageable age, have the right to a live-in relationship. Rejecting the argument that the male's age prevented cohabitation, the court cited Article 21, stating fundamental rights cannot be denied. Live-in relationships are not illegal, and the state must ensure protection.

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