The Times of India News

Union minister Nitin Gadkari recounted meeting Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh hours before his assassination in Tehran. Gadkari, was in Iran, attending presidential swearing-in, and was informed of Haniyeh's death early next morning. The incident highlighted the growing role of technology in modern conflict and national security.

The Delhi High Court has directed the Centre to expedite the extradition of US-based accused Amit Wadhwa and asked the trial court to conclude the long-pending criminal proceedings preferably within one year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Christmas greetings, wishing for peace, compassion, and hope, and called for societal harmony. He attended a Christmas morning service at The Cathedral Church of the Redemption in Delhi, highlighting the enduring values of love and brotherhood. This follows his consistent engagement with the Christian community through various events.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw lauded Rahul Gandhi for acknowledging Foxconn's significant job creation in Karnataka, attributing it to Prime Minister Modi's 'Make in India' initiative. Gandhi highlighted the rapid hiring of 30,000 staff, predominantly young women, at the new iPhone assembly unit, emphasizing the creation of dignified jobs and opportunities for all, setting an example for India's manufacturing growth.

In a significant ruling, the Allahabad high court has freed a man after nearly 24 years of imprisonment. The court found the trial court erred by relying solely on a confession made under duress. Upholding the right to a fair trial, the bench highlighted the lack of legal aid and corroborative evidence, leading to the acquittal of Azad Khan.

Gujarat High Court acquitted a father sentenced to death for the rape and murder of his pregnant teenage daughter. The court cited procedural lapses, including compromised DNA evidence due to delayed submission and improper preservation, as grounds for overturning the conviction. The prosecution failed to establish a complete chain of reliable evidence.

A father in Tamil Nadu has been sentenced to death for the horrific sexual assault and impregnation of his 14-year-old daughter. The 49-year-old labourer's brutal acts, which began in August 2024, were discovered when the victim fell ill and doctors found she was pregnant.

The Allahabad High Court ruled that a consensual relationship between a teacher and student constitutes misconduct, not sexual harassment. This decision overturned a 19-year-old dismissal order for an MNNIT lecturer, deeming the penalty disproportionate. The court noted the relationship appeared consensual and was not followed by criminal action.

A 16-year-old girl's body was discovered under mysterious circumstances in Sachendi village, days after her father allegedly beat her for an affair with a cousin. While her father claims suicide, police are investigating the cause of death, preserving viscera due to unclear postmortem findings. A dupatta was found tied around her neck.

India has condemned the demolition of a Hindu deity statue near the Thailand-Cambodia border, emphasizing that such acts disrespect shared civilizational heritage and hurt global followers. The Ministry of External Affairs urged both nations to resume dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace, prevent further loss of life, and protect property and heritage.

India's Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, met with US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor at Mar-a-Lago to discuss strengthening trade ties and the bilateral partnership. The meeting, held during President Trump's holiday stay, also covered Gor's priorities for the India-US relationship. This interaction highlights the expanding scope of cooperation beyond trade, including the space sector.

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has released the final syllabus for NEET (UG) 2026, urging students to align their preparation with the updated curriculum. This revised syllabus, effective for the 2026-27 academic session, aims to ensure uniformity and transparency in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Medical colleges and educational institutions are advised to update their teaching materials accordingly.

India has achieved significant reductions in malaria, tuberculosis, and maternal/child deaths, marking a decisive phase in public health. These gains stem from sustained political will, scientific capacity, and public participation. While progress is evident, challenges remain in eliminating diseases and ensuring comprehensive life-course immunisation.

Indian musicians Mainak Biswas and Kallab Ghosh faced intense anxiety in Dhaka after their concert was cancelled. Trapped for 48 hours amidst rising anti-Indian sentiment, Biswas described the experience as a worst nightmare, highlighting the fear of being targeted as a Hindu in Bangladesh. They managed to return home on December 22nd.

The Calcutta High Court ruled that foreign courts can hear divorce and maintenance cases for marriages solemnised in India if a spouse resides there. This decision overturned a lower court's injunction on a UK court order, asserting that a UK family court has jurisdiction if parties last resided together in the UK.

India successfully tested its K-4 intermediate-range ballistic missile from the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat in the Bay of Bengal. This solid-fuelled missile, capable of carrying a two-tonne nuclear payload, is crucial for strengthening the sea leg of India's nuclear weapons triad. The test marks a significant step towards enhancing India's strategic deterrence capabilities.

India's LVM3 rocket, nicknamed Baahubali, successfully launched the 6,100kg US satellite BlueBird Block-2, marking the heaviest spacecraft ever lifted from Indian soil. This ninth consecutive success for the human-rated launcher boosts confidence for the Gaganyaan mission and signals India's strong entry into the global LEO communications market.

Union Minister Amit Shah announced the upcoming launch of 'Bharat Taxi,' a new initiative by the Ministry of Cooperation. This service aims to create job opportunities for drivers and ensure they receive 100% of their earnings. 'Bharat Taxi' will also provide insurance facilities and allow advertisements on vehicles, enhancing driver welfare and customer convenience.

The Union environment ministry is expanding prohibited mining areas in the Aravali hills following Supreme Court directives and public protests. The ministry has asked a central institution to identify additional zones for mining bans, aiming to further protect the mountain range's ecology and biodiversity.

Home minister Amit Shah declared India has conquered long-standing security threats under the Modi government, highlighting peace in regions previously plagued by extremism and terrorism. Speaking at a police graduation ceremony, he urged new recruits to combat drugs and social evils, emphasizing the government's unwavering support for states in tackling crime. Shah also attended events honoring historical figures.

Rahul Gandhi's praise for Karnataka's job creation, particularly Foxconn's hiring surge, has drawn a response from Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Vaishnaw credited Prime Minister Modi's 'Make in India' initiative, highlighting the nation's shift towards becoming a producer economy.

Prime Minister Modi is convening a three-day summit with chief secretaries in Delhi to accelerate deregulation and enhance ease of business. The meeting will also focus on developing human capital to achieve India's developed nation status. Key themes include women and child welfare, education, sports, and skill development, with states presenting their initiatives.

Unnao rape survivor and her mother met Rahul and Sonia Gandhi seeking help in their legal battle against convicted attacker Kuldeep Sengar, who received bail. The survivor also requested relocation to a Congress-ruled state for safety, fearing for her life. Rahul Gandhi pledged legal assistance and support for her relocation, while condemning police action against her protest.

The National Highways Authority of India has issued a final notice to Roadways Solutions India Infra Ltd (RSIL) for termination over severe delays on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway in Gujarat. With construction progress as low as 4.9% on one 35-km stretch, the project's revised deadline is now at risk.

Move comes even as plea against life term is pending

The Jammu & Kashmir High Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation filed by former CM Mehbooba Mufti. The court deemed the petition vague, politically motivated, and lacking substantiation, stating it failed to meet legal standards for PILs.

The Jammu & Kashmir High Court has issued a notice to the UT administration regarding a Public Interest Litigation concerning Displaced Persons of 1947 from Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir. Filed by the Jammu Kashmir Action Committee, the PIL seeks directions for authorities on related matters. The court has scheduled the next hearing for February 10.

A Junior Commissioned Officer of the Indian Army, Subedar Surjeet Singh, tragically lost his life from a gunshot wound while on duty in Samba district, Jammu and Kashmir. The terror angle has been ruled out, and the incident is currently under investigation. The Rising Star Corps has paid tribute to the brave soldier, offering unwavering support to his grieving family.

A CRPF head constable sustained injuries when a leopard entered a paramilitary camp in Anantnag, attacking him in the mess. The animal subsequently escaped into a nearby forest. This incident follows a recent surge in wild animal sightings and attacks across Kashmir, prompting the government to develop a plan to address the issue.

The CBI will challenge the Delhi High Court's decision to suspend former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar's life sentence and grant him bail in the Unnao rape case. Despite this, Sengar remains jailed due to a separate conviction. The survivor, calling the bail death, plans to appeal to the Supreme Court, citing safety fears.

Congress slammed the Centres ban on new mining leases in the Aravallis as a bogus attempt at damage control, saying it fails to address concerns over the governments new 100-metre hill definition. Jairam Ramesh alleged the redefinition weakens environmental protection despite expert objections, a charge the Centre has denied.

A Pentagon report suggests China is using eased border tensions with India to stabilize ties and counter growing US-India partnership. While Beijing seeks normalcy through resumed flights and visas, New Delhi remains skeptical of China's motives amid ongoing distrust. This strategic move aligns with China's long-term national rejuvenation goals.

Former Maldives VP Faisal Naseem lauded Atal Bihari Vajpayee as a statesman who championed peace through restraint and institutional respect. Naseem highlighted Vajpayee's enduring relevance for South Asia's turbulent democratic landscape, emphasizing his ability to be firm yet civil, decisive without being divisive. The lecture underscored Vajpayee's belief in parliamentary democracy and its role in fostering peace and stability.

Army troops have been deployed to West Karbi Anglong to restore order. Violent protests have erupted over alleged illegal settlements by non-tribals. Two people have died and dozens are injured. Curfew-like restrictions and internet suspension are in place. The chief minister stated immediate eviction is not possible due to a court stay. Tensions over land rights escalated into clashes.

Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted GRAP-IV restrictions with immediate effect, even though air quality in several areas remained in the very poor category with AQI levels crossing 350. While the strictest curbs were withdrawn, Stage I, II and III measures will continue under the modified GRAP. The move came hours after the Delhi High Court pulled up the Centre

ISRO's LVM3-M6 rocket successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 satellite for AST SpaceMobile, offering a unique onboard camera perspective of the entire mission. The footage captured liftoff, booster separation, and satellite deployment into Low Earth Orbit, marking a significant commercial success for ISRO's heavy-lift vehicle.

A Pentagon report reveals China's inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh as a core interest alongside Taiwan and maritime disputes, integral to its 2049 rejuvenation goal. While India and China agreed to disengage from LAC standoff points, mutual distrust is expected to persist, with Beijing also deepening military ties with Pakistan.

2.46 lakh crore, 13 crore women, 15 states: the fastest-growing welfare promise is reshaping household power and state finances, finds Richa Gandhi

The Unnao rape survivor expressed deep distress over Kuldeep Singh Sengar's bail, calling it 'death' for her family and vowing to challenge the Delhi High Court's decision in the Supreme Court. The court suspended Sengar's life sentence, citing he shouldn't be jailed solely on victim threat perception, while imposing strict bail conditions.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted Delhi's severe air pollution, attributing 40% to the transport sector's reliance on fossil fuels. He urged a shift to electric and hydrogen mobility, framing it as a nationalistic imperative to reduce costly imports and pollution. Gadkari emphasised India's potential for cleaner fuel alternatives and advancements in electric vehicle technology.