The Times of India News

The Defence Acquisition Council has approved capital acquisition proposals totaling approximately Rs 79,000 crore to enhance the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces. These approvals, granted on December 29, 2025, cover a variety of equipment for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, including loiter munition systems, radars, guided rocket ammunition, and drone detection systems.

The Supreme Court has intervened in the Unnao rape case. It has halted the Delhi high court's decision to suspend former BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar's life sentence. The apex court is examining if an MLA qualifies as a public servant under the POCSO Act. This move ensures Sengar remains in jail. The survivor welcomes the Supreme Court's action.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to stay its order on the Aravalli range's ew definition. The court has formed a committee to re-examine the issues. The government remains committed to protecting and restoring the Aravalli hills, with mining bans on new and renewed leases continuing. This follows widespread criticism of the previous definition.

The Unnao rape survivor expressed joy and vowed to pursue capital punishment after the Supreme Court stayed the Delhi High Court's order suspending expelled BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar's life sentence. The apex court's decision prevents Sengar's release, emphasizing the peculiar circumstances of his conviction for a grave offense. The survivor conveyed her faith in the judiciary's pursuit of justice.

China launched large-scale live-fire military drills around Taiwan, deploying warships and aircraft in a stern warning to independence supporters and foreign powers. Taiwan's military is on high alert, vowing to defend its democracy amid drills aimed at blockading key ports and simulating strikes.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami has assured justice for Tripura student Anjel Chakma, who died after a brutal attack in Dehradun. Five accused are arrested, with one suspect on the run and a reward announced. The incident, involving racial abuse and stabbing, has sparked outrage and calls for strict action against the perpetrators.

The Supreme Court has halted the Delhi High Court's bail order for ex-BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the Unnao rape case. The apex court questioned the suspension of his sentence, noting Sengar remains jailed for another conviction. The CBI had appealed the bail, highlighting the horrific nature of the crime against a minor.

The Indian Navy's stitched sailing vessel, INSV Kaundinya, embarks on its maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat, retracing ancient maritime routes. Built using traditional stitched-plank technology without modern propulsion, the ship highlights India's rich shipbuilding heritage and its historical connections with West Asia.

Thick smog and fog across northern India have led to significant flight delays, prompting the Ministry of Civil Aviation to issue a travel advisory. Airlines are urging passengers to check flight statuses and allow extra travel time as operations at select airports are impacted by reduced visibility and CAT III conditions.

A 68-year-old Mumbai woman was defrauded of Rs 3.75 crore by scammers who impersonated 'Justice Chandrachud' and staged a mock virtual court hearing. The fraudsters used high-pressure tactics, including demanding an essay about her life, to extract funds. Police have arrested one man in Gujarat for receiving a portion of the stolen money.

A 34-year legal battle over an ITDC employee's job termination concluded with the Supreme Court awarding 50% back wages to his family. The employee, D K Sharma, passed away a year before the apex court's verdict, which sided with him after a protracted journey through labor courts and the High Court.

India is poised to approve genome-edited mustard, potentially boosting oil production and reducing pungency, following the release of similar rice varieties. This advancement in gene-editing technology, distinct from GM crops, is being evaluated in trials and signifies India's move towards diversifying its agricultural landscape amidst opposition to GM crops.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu's appeal led to the Resident Doctors Association of IGMC-Shimla ending their strike. Following assurances of a detailed inquiry and a review of Dr. Raghav Narula's termination, doctors are set to resume duties. The CM acknowledged the strike, stating government decisions are open to review.

A Jalandhar man's search for his brother in Moscow has revealed a grim reality: at least ten Indians, including three from Punjab, have died fighting for the Russian army in Ukraine, with four others missing. Jagdeep Kumar, who made two trips to Russia, has obtained official confirmation of these deaths and is now working to repatriate the bodies.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor backed Digvijaya Singh's call for organizational strengthening and discipline within the party. Singh's earlier praise for the RSS-BJP's organizational prowess had sparked debate. Tharoor emphasized the need for a robust Congress, while Singh asserted party unity and his opposition to BJP-RSS ideology. Salman Khurshid, however, stated the Congress doesn't need to learn from the RSS.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh questioned Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on the new Aravalli definition ahead of a Supreme Court hearing. He highlighted concerns about ecological integrity, citing FSI reports that emphasized the protective role of even smaller hill formations against desertification. Ramesh also pointed to past definitions and a CEC report on mining leases within the Aravallis.

'Consult docs, stay away from self-medication'

A former MBBS doctor, known as Dr. Rafiq, built a clandestine medical system for Maoists and Adivasis in Chhattisgarh's Bastar. He performed surgeries with limited resources, trained medics, and documented treatments for battlefield injuries and common ailments. Revered by locals, his network continues to function even after his departure, blending traditional knowledge with modern medicine.

The Supreme Court has consistently safeguarded the Aravalis for two decades, banning mining and groundwater extraction. Despite PMO interventions to prevent dilution of construction norms in ecologically sensitive zones, recent government reports appear to favor mining. Activists highlight ongoing efforts, particularly from Haryana, to permit non-forest activities under the guise of recreation, challenging the court's conservation directives.

Congress celebrated its 140th foundation day with leaders asserting the party's enduring ideology. Mallikarjun Kharge declared, Congress is an ideology and ideologies never die, while Rahul Gandhi called it he voice of India's soul. The party vowed to fight for truth, courage, and the Constitution against injustice and dictatorship, urging workers to build a mass movement for MGNREGA's restoration.

India is advancing its hydropower potential on the Chenab River with the approval of the 260 MW Dulhasti State-II project in Jammu & Kashmir. This strategic move, following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, aims to harness the river's untapped capacity. The project, an extension of an existing facility, will contribute to India's hydropower generation goals.

Tripura CM Manik Saha has urged Uttarakhand counterpart Pushkar Singh Dhami to ensure justice for Anjel Chakma, a 24-year-old student from Tripura who tragically died after a racially motivated assault in Dehradun. Five suspects are arrested, with a manhunt for a sixth underway. Authorities are also seeking a fugitive in Nepal.

India's DRDO has equipped the Army with advanced camouflage software and a multispectral tank decoy to counter modern enemy detection. These technologies, developed after recent conflicts, help soldiers and equipment evade surveillance across visible, infrared, and radar spectrums. This boosts battlefield deception and survival, crucial for modern warfare.

Prime Minister Modi urged chief secretaries to prevent Maoism's resurgence in liberated areas by accelerating infrastructure and welfare projects. He emphasized all-round development, including rehabilitation for surrendered individuals, to ensure they remain in the mainstream. The PM also called for deregulation cells to boost reforms and improve ease of living and doing business.

The government is preparing to defend its new rural employment scheme, VB-G RAM G, against Congress protests. Ministers have been briefed on its advantages, including 125 guaranteed workdays and durable asset creation, aiming to boost local livelihoods and curb migration. Normative funding ensures predictable allocations, contrasting with previous models.

Authorities detained Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi and PDP leader Waheed Parra, halting a student protest against J&K's revised reservation policy. The changes, granting a 10% quota to Pahari-speaking people, have sparked debate over reduced open merit shares.

Ladakh's pristine cold desert faces a crisis as feral dogs, numbering nearly 45,000, threaten endangered wildlife like snow leopards and Pallas's cats. Human activities, including increased tourism and unmanaged waste, have fueled their rapid multiplication. Conservationists warn these canines, now outnumbering native predators, pose a significant ecological threat and have even attacked humans.

Latchiya Jananayaka Katchi (LJK) has expressed interest in an alliance with Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) for the 2026 Assembly elections. LJK leader Jose Charles Martin cited Vijay's stance against corruption as a reason for the potential partnership. He also clarified earlier criticisms of Vijay's political messaging, attributing it to the actor's aides.

India plans to establish coal exchanges to foster competitive markets for surplus thermal fuel as production is projected to exceed 1.5 billion tonnes by 2030. The Coal Controller Organisation will register and regulate these exchanges, facilitating commodity trading. This move aligns with policy reforms leading to increased domestic coal availability and demand.

A SWISS Airbus A330 en route from Zurich to Mumbai declared a PAN PAN urgency message due to a cabin pressurisation snag. The pilot safely landed the aircraft in Mumbai, with a spokesperson confirming no danger to passengers or crew. The plane was inspected and cleared for its return flight as scheduled.

Over 25 lakh households have now installed rooftop solar under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, receiving cleaner energy and reduced electricity bills. Launched in February 2024, the scheme aims for 1 crore installations by FY 2026-27, with subsidies up to Rs 78,000 available.

A Congress-run local club near Thalassery was vandalized on Saturday night, with the party alleging CPM workers were responsible due to their election defeat. Furniture, flags, posters, and a Mahatma Gandhi portrait were damaged at the Priyadarshini Club, which served as a Congress election office. Police have registered a case and are investigating the incident.

Rajasthan has launched 'e-Swasthya Samvad', a digital platform to enhance governance and transparency in medical education. This initiative, directed by the Chief Minister and Medical Education Minister, aims to improve health services through technology. The platform will facilitate bi-weekly video conferences connecting all stakeholders for faster decision-making and effective program implementation.

Meghalaya security agencies have refuted claims by Bangladesh Police that killers of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi entered India. Officials stated there is no evidence of any individual crossing the border from the Haluaghat sector into Meghalaya, with the BSF maintaining high alert and constant surveillance.

Right-wing activists disrupted a birthday party in Bareilly, falsely accusing two Muslim guests of love jihad despite most attendees being Hindu. Police booked the Muslim guests and a cafe staffer for breach of peace, though an inquiry found no wrongdoing by the students. The victim stated the love jihad claim was unfounded.

Digvijaya Singh asserted Congress unity amidst a BJP controversy over his praise for the RSS's organizational strength. He accused the BJP of trying to divide the Nehru-Gandhi family, emphasizing the party's solidarity. Singh clarified his stance, stating his opposition to the RSS and PM Modi while supporting a strong organizational framework.

In 2025, women emerged as the decisive force, shaping outcomes across various spheres. From Operation Sindoor's symbolic and active response to terror, to women voters determining Bihar's fate, their influence was undeniable. New women leaders reshaped global politics, athletes dominated sports, and Roshni Nadar redefined economic power, marking a year of profound change.

The National Medical Commission is establishing a national pool of government medical college faculty for surprise inspections to enhance scrutiny of medical institutions. This initiative, starting with 2026-27 academic year approvals, aims to ensure compliance with norms and maintain quality as medical seats expand. Assessors will be compensated and their inspection days treated as official duty.

Why the Matua-Namasudra community views politics the way it does becomes clearer when one looks beyond electoral arithmetic, beyond BJP versus Trinamool Congress (TMC), and even before the creation of Bangladesh. The Matua movement, by the early twentieth century, had become as much a social force as a religious one.

Senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh's praise for the RSS's organizational strength sparked internal debate within the party. While Singh admired the RSS's ability to elevate grassroots workers, several Congress leaders dismissed the comparison, emphasizing their party's Gandhian roots and opposing the RSS ideology.

Nothing seems to deter cybercriminals from striking at will and defrauding unsuspecting victims. Diffused networks and transnational cartels put them virtually beyond the reach of police across states. Now, SC has asked CBI to crack down on fraudsters. The hope is that the central agency has the reach and teeth to make an impact 22,846 cr

A tragic accident claimed the life of a 30-year-old engineer in Mumbai. A speeding MSRTC bus struck him while he stood by his parked scooter. The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal ordered the transport corporation to pay over Rs 2.21 crore to his grieving family, citing driver negligence.