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National / The Times of India
BSF Kashmir IG Ashok Yadav stated that 120 terrorists on 69 launch pads across the LoC are under close watch, with Operation Sindoor ready for activation if Pakistan attempts any misadventure. Following Indian strikes, Pakistan shifted some launch pads deeper, but they remain under surveillance. Infiltration attempts have significantly dropped this year.
Indian auto sales surged in November 2025, with Maruti Suzuki achieving record figures driven by strong domestic demand and exports. Hyundai and Tata Motors also reported significant year-on-year growth, boosted by GST reforms and increasing EV adoption. Toyota Kirloskar Motor continued its upward trend, showcasing the industry's robust recovery.
Imran Khan's son, Kasim Khan, expressed grave concerns to Reuters, fearing something irreversible is happening to his father due to a lack of verifiable contact and denied access to his personal physician. Despite jail authorities claiming Khan is in good health, the family's fears are amplified by prolonged isolation and mounting speculation.
The Reserve Bank of India has launched the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion (NSFI) 2025-30, aiming to expand financial access and usage across India. This strategy, guided by five key objectives known as 'Panch-Jyoti', focuses on women, households, and micro-enterprises, promoting equitable and responsible financial products.
The Indian rupee fell to a new low of 89.53 against the US dollar on Monday, driven by increased dollar demand and trade deficit concerns. Limited central bank intervention and delays in the India-US trade deal further weakened the currency. Economic indicators also pointed to a slowdown in manufacturing and industrial output.
Indian markets mirrored global trends as US stocks dipped. Bitcoin's slide impacted crypto firms. Global bond yields rose, influencing investor sentiment. US factory activity showed a decline. Companies faced ongoing supply chain and hiring challenges. Investors watched holiday shopping data and corporate news.
Parliament's winter session commenced with significant disruptions. Opposition MPs clashed with the government over former Vice President Dhankhar's exit, Delhi's air quality, and electoral roll revisions. Prime Minister Modi urged against turning Parliament into a stage for frustration, while the opposition insisted on debating public issues. Proceedings saw multiple adjournments and a Rajya Sabha walkout.
Financial fraudsters are increasingly targeting small business and current accounts to move illicit funds, a shift from previous reliance on retail and Jan Dhan accounts. Scammers are exploiting easy access to business PANs and fake Udhyam certificates to open these accounts, which are then used as mule accounts to obscure the trail of stolen money.
Indian importers are securing substantial volumes of South American soybean oil for delivery in 2026, anticipating a surge in palm oil prices. This strategic move is driven by expectations of tightened palm oil supplies due to Indonesia's planned biodiesel expansion and concerns over global availability.
Prime Minister Modi spoke with Sri Lankan President Dissanayake, offering condolences and continued aid for Cyclone Ditwah's devastation. India's 'Operation Sagar Bandhu' has delivered crucial relief, including rescue teams and supplies, reaffirming its 'First Responder' role. Sri Lanka expressed deep gratitude for New Delhi's swift and substantial support during this critical time.
Central and northwest India brace for a colder winter from December 2025 to February 2026, with below-normal day and night temperatures expected. The region anticipates 4-5 additional cold wave days, potentially impacting vulnerable populations and transportation. Authorities are advised to maintain preparedness for these intensified conditions.
India's IPO market is buzzing with activity, with nearly two dozen companies set to launch public issues soon, potentially raising Rs 40,000 crore. This surge, driven by strong retail participation and domestic inflows, includes major names like ICICI Prudential AMC and Meesho. Experts anticipate a record fundraising year, highlighting investor confidence and a robust economic outlook.
India has been invited to chair the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) for the first time, a recognition of its successful electoral process. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar will assume the Chair on December 3, 2026, in Stockholm, Sweden. This appointment highlights India's significant experience in managing elections for its vast electorate.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, on Monday, submitted a Suspension of Business notice in the House ahead of the first day of the Winter Session, demanding a discussion on the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in 12 States and Union Territories.
More than two lakh private companies have shut down in India over the last five years. This includes companies closed due to amalgamation, conversion, dissolution, or being struck off. The government has no current proposal for employee rehabilitation. A significant number of inactive companies were removed from records. Reforms aim to simplify the tax system and promote business.
India's industrial output saw a slowdown in October 2025, registering a mere 0.4% growth compared to 4% in September. This dip is attributed to fewer working days during major festivals. While mining and electricity sectors experienced declines, manufacturing showed resilience, driven by key industries like basic metals and refined petroleum products.
Investor optimism is high as Meesho, Aequs Limited, and Vidya Wires prepare for their IPOs, opening December 3-5. All three are trading at significant premiums in the grey market, suggesting strong listing gains. Market watchers cite robust business prospects and anchor investor interest as key drivers for this positive sentiment.
Black Friday sales in India surged 27% this year, driven by strong performance in healthy food, beauty, and home categories. The global shopping event's popularity is growing, with increased online participation from smaller towns significantly contributing to the rise in order volumes.
Silver futures surged to new highs on the MCX, driven by anticipated US Fed rate cuts, a weaker dollar, and strong industrial demand. Experts see a significant technical breakout, with prices potentially reaching Rs 2 lakh by early 2026. Global markets also show bullish trends, suggesting further upside potential for the precious metal.
Shashi Tharoor missed a key Congress strategy meeting ahead of Parliament's Winter Session, citing travel from Kerala with his elderly mother. This follows previous absences and public praise for Prime Minister Modi, intensifying friction within the party since his presidential election bid.
The Supreme Court has ordered a nationwide CBI investigation into digital arrests, a growing cybercrime where fraudsters impersonate officials to extort money. The court also questioned the RBI on AI's use in freezing cyber fraud-linked accounts and directed CBI to seek Interpol's help against offshore criminals.
Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury sparked controversy by bringing a stray puppy to Parliament grounds, claiming she rescued it from the road. She asserted that eal dogs who ite are already in Parliament, criticizing the government. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal condemned the act as amasha and a breach of protocol, demanding action.
Gaurav Gogoi accused Prime Minister Modi of hijacking Parliament during the Winter Session, alleging the government refuses to discuss the Indian election system. Gogoi stated that while the opposition is willing to cooperate on government bills, the BJP is not accommodating opposition issues in the parliamentary agenda, undermining democratic functioning.
India's labour laws have undergone a major overhaul, consolidating 29 laws into four codes effective November 21, 2025. This reform aims to boost workplace safety, ease business, and formalize employment. Businesses must adapt to new wage definitions and extended social security, while navigating short-term challenges like cost recalculations and dual compliance environments.
Bitcoin experienced a sharp decline, dropping below $86,000 as December began with renewed selling pressure across the crypto market. Ether and other major tokens also saw significant losses, signaling a risk-off sentiment among investors. Concerns over meager ETF inflows and potential selling by large holders are weighing on prices, with traders eyeing $80,000 as a key support level.
Commercial LPG prices saw a Rs 10 per unit reduction, offering relief to the hospitality sector. However, airlines face renewed cost pressure as Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices were hiked for the third consecutive month. Petrol and diesel prices remain unchanged nationwide.
US tariffs have slowed India's manufacturing growth to a nine-month low, impacting sales and production. While exports to other regions remain strong, new export orders saw their slowest rise in over a year. India is negotiating a trade framework with the US to address these tariff challenges, though future output expectations have dipped.
Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday addressed public grievances and concerns during 'Janta Darshan' in Lucknow, where he met people from different parts of the district and personally listened to their issues.
As Russian President Vladimir Putin visits New Delhi, it will be his first visit to India since the Ukraine war began. As the two old partners Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Putin meet again, the news will be about missiles and credit cards, fighter jets, and oil flows. But the real story behind may be far more complicated.
Gold and silver futures opened strongly on Monday, buoyed by a weakening dollar, anticipated US Federal Reserve rate cuts, and a depreciating rupee. Silver futures reached a new peak, with analysts expecting continued strong momentum driven by global economic factors and currency fluctuations.
India's economy is reportedly growing at an impressive 8.2%, yet the IMF has assigned its national accounts a 'C' grade due to methodological weaknesses. This rating highlights concerns about outdated base years, price deflators, and data granularity, sparking a debate over the accuracy of the reported growth figures.
State Bank of India is experiencing a strong year, with shares up nearly 25% in 2025, outperforming private peers. This growth is fueled by a favorable earnings outlook, improving asset quality, and steady credit growth expectations. Analysts remain bullish, citing SBI's scale, solid fundamentals, and potential for further upside.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan to the Rajya Sabha on the first day of Winter Session, highlighting his dedication to social service and his connection with tribal communities in Jharkhand. PM Modi assured the House's cooperation, emphasizing decorum and policy over slogans, while also urging the opposition to move past recent election defeats.
New investors often err by picking too many flashy, high-return funds. Experts advise starting with one diversified, stable fund like a flexi-cap or index fund. This approach, focusing on consistency over chasing trends, builds wealth and reduces stress over the long term, proving that simplicity often triumphs over complexity in investing.
The Indian rupee opened at 89.45 against the US dollar, trading in a narrow range as equity gains were countered by rising crude oil prices and foreign fund outflows. Analysts suggest the rupee could strengthen towards 88.90 if India-US trade relations improve, with strong support at 88.80-89.00.
Women possess strong financial management skills but are often sidelined in critical decisions, limiting their freedom. This article provides a roadmap for women to actively participate in financial discussions, master money management basics, and leverage joint property ownership and women-specific financial products to achieve true financial independence and control their destiny.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 'Mann Ki Baat' broadcast on Sunday, expressed his special affection for Uttarakhand and highlighted the immense potential of winter tourism, adventure sports, and wedding destinations in the state, said Uttarakhand CMO.
Nelson Mandela, a transformative leader, dedicated his life to fighting apartheid and promoting equality. After 27 years in prison, he emerged with a message of forgiveness and unity, becoming South Africa's first Black president. His philosophy, reflected in his quote, emphasises that life's significance is measured by the positive difference made in others' lives, urging intentional action and service.
Banks in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh were closed on Monday for State Inauguration Day and Indigenous Faith Day, respectively. These state-specific holidays mark significant cultural and historical events. Banks across other Indian states operated as usual, with further closures anticipated throughout December for various regional and religious observances.
Stock market recommendations: Nifty and Bank Nifty hit record highs, driven by leadership sectors, though broader market participation remains selective. SBI Securities recommends 360 ONE WAM and Mahindra & Mahindra, citing strong technical indicators and potential for further upside in both stocks.
Stock market today: Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, the Indian equity benchmark indices, opened in green on Monday on the back of strong domestic fundamentals and better-than-expected GDP growth numbers.
Asian markets opened steady as optimism for a US interest rate cut boosted risk appetite heading into December 2025. The Japanese yen strengthened on expectations of a policy shift from the Bank of Japan. Investors are closely watching upcoming US economic data and Federal Reserve commentary for further market direction.
Many fear investing due to market volatility and potential losses. However, data shows long-term equity investments typically reward patience, while inaction risks losing purchasing power to inflation. Protecting yourself with an emergency fund and insurance, then starting small with a diversified fund, helps manage fear and build wealth over time through consistent, disciplined behaviour.
Stock market recommendations: Motilal Oswal Financial Services has identified Reliance Industries and HCL Tech as top stock picks for the week of December 1, 2025. RIL's strong performance in Retail and RJio, coupled with O2C earnings improvement, drives growth expectations. HCL Tech's robust deal wins and early traction in AI solutions support its upgraded services growth guidance.

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