The Economic Times News

A political storm brewed in Tamil Nadu as a Congress leader highlighted the state's alarming debt, sparking sharp retorts from the DMK and discomfort within his own party. The BJP seized the opportunity to criticize the ruling DMK. This public discord has reignited concerns about unity within the I.N.D.I. Alliance.

China launched Justice Mission 2025, a large-scale inter-service military exercise around Taiwan, involving coordinated ground, air, navy, and missile units. The drills aim to test joint combat capabilities and serve as a warning against Taiwan independence and external interference, asserting China's sovereignty over the island.

Myanmar commenced its first elections since the 2021 military takeover, with voting spread across three phases. Over 5,000 candidates are contesting approximately 950 seats using a mixed-member proportional system. The pro-Army USDP is expected to lead, with the military framing the polls as a path to reconciliation and prosperity.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced an alliance between his NCP and Sharad Pawar's NCP (SP) for the Pimpri-Chinchwad civic polls, stating the family has united. He urged party workers to focus on development and avoid controversial remarks. Talks are also ongoing for a tie-up in the Pune Municipal Corporation elections.

Delhi and surrounding areas are experiencing severe air quality, with the AQI reaching 402. This dangerous pollution, coupled with dense fog, has led to significant disruptions in transportation, causing delays for numerous trains and flights. Authorities are advising passengers to verify flight statuses and allow extra travel time.

Philosopher Immanuel Kant believed happiness is not a gift but a personal creation. He stressed individual responsibility for well-being. Kant's ideas, from the 18th century, continue to influence thought on ethics and freedom. His work highlights that fulfillment requires effort, reason, and ethical action. This perspective empowers individuals to build meaning instead of passively waiting.

Melbourne University's vice chancellor, Professor Emma Johnston, has passed away at 52. She died after a short fight with cancer. Professor Johnston was a respected marine ecologist and academic leader. Her death has shocked many at the university. She continued working until Christmas. Her family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and respect.

Dense fog has enveloped Delhi and surrounding areas, leading Delhi Airport to issue a passenger advisory. Flight operations are currently under CAT III conditions, causing potential delays and cancellations. The airport's ground teams are assisting passengers, and travelers are advised to contact their airlines for the latest updates.

A train derailed in Oaxaca, Mexico, resulting in 13 fatalities. The train was carrying 250 individuals, including passengers and crew. Authorities reported 98 injuries, with 36 individuals receiving medical attention. Many passengers were confirmed to be out of danger following the incident. Rescue and recovery efforts were underway.

President Trump hosted Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, stating both nations are closer to a peace deal, though complex negotiations remain. Trump believes Russian President Putin desires peace, despite ongoing attacks. Key sticking points include Russia's control over Ukrainian territory and security guarantees for Ukraine.

North Korea launched long-range cruise missiles into the sea. Leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test, expressing satisfaction. This display aims to bolster the nation's nuclear deterrence. South Korea and the US remain vigilant. These launches follow recent weapons tests, including a nuclear-powered submarine. Observers anticipate further demonstrations ahead of a party congress.

Taxpayers are receiving unexpected emails from the Income Tax Department. These messages halt tax refunds due to discrepancies in claimed deductions and donations. The department cites issues like incorrect charity details or high refund claims compared to salary. Tax practitioners note that even accurate claims are being flagged, causing anxiety among honest citizens.

India is considering increasing customs duties and offering targeted incentives for goods with high imports despite local production. This move aims to reduce the merchandise trade gap and supply chain dependence, with a list of around 100 items, including engineering goods and consumer products, under review.

US President Donald Trump said he believes both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin want to end the war, as he hosted Zelenskyy for talks at his Florida resort amid intensified Russian attacks on Ukraine.

The finance ministry is reviewing the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana's cup-and-cap model. This comes as crop insurance business declines, with premium collections expected to fall significantly. Large states are shifting to the cup-and-cap model, which limits insurer risk and profitability. The review aims to ensure the scheme's long-term sustainability and effective farmer coverage.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the Modi government of weakening key institutions and schemes established during Congress rule. He specifically mentioned MGNREGA, RTI, and RTE. Kharge urged party members to resist these actions. He stated that the Congress, despite having less power, will fight back against those turning religion into politics and crushing people's rights.

Union Minister Amit Shah has voiced strong criticism of Rahul Gandhi, reflecting on the Congress party's ongoing election losses. He underscored the BJP's success in delivering land ownership certificates to citizens in Ahmedabad, noting that the Congress had merely facilitated resettlement without granting real rights.

Bastar police established 52 Forward Operating Bases in Naxal-affected districts during 2025. This period saw 1,562 Maoist cadres surrender, including key leaders. Security forces eliminated 11 central committee members. A total of 256 Maoists, 23 security personnel, and 46 civilians lost their lives. The year also marked the elimination of feared commander Madvi Hidma.

The RSS is planning a major organisational overhaul. This restructuring aims to decentralise power and increase engagement at the village and mohalla levels. The existing prant system will be replaced by more numerous sambhags. This shift will bring leadership closer to field units. The RSS is also focusing on community work and social transformation.

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has urged party reinforcement, drawing parallels with the RSS-BJP's organizational might. This statement has led to varied reactions from Congress Working Committee members. While some agree on the need for a stronger party, they firmly reject the RSS ideology. Leaders emphasized learning from others without adopting their principles.

After a thorough presentation by the Central Bureau of Investigation, the focus now shifts to Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia as they articulate their defenses regarding the Delhi excise controversy. The court's decision on whether to formalize the charges will follow a complete review of both sides' arguments.

The 20-point plan, which emerged from weeks of intense US-Ukraine negotiations, lacks Moscow's approval, and the face-to-face in Florida follows a massive Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv. The meeting, scheduled for 1:00 pm (1800 GMT) Sunday will be their first in-person encounter since October, when the US president refused to grant Zelenskyy's request for long-range Tomahawk missiles.

In a tense escalation of tensions, Srinagar's leaders and students found themselves under house arrest on Sunday as protests erupted, aiming for a revision of the reservation policy. The authorities detained numerous students and stationed armed forces throughout the city. Lok Sabha member Aga Ruhullah Mehdi condemned these detentions as excessive.

A tragic helicopter crash occurred in Hammonton, New Jersey. One person lost their life in the incident. Another individual sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a hospital. Flames engulfed one of the aircraft. Authorities are investigating the cause of the devastating accident. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are involved.

Operation Sindoor, a decisive military strike against Pakistan in 2025, redefined India's response to terrorism and reshaped its national security strategy. The operation exposed Pakistan's nuclear bluff and demonstrated India's capability for impactful strikes, leading to significant shifts in military thinking and preparedness for future conflicts.

A routine eviction drive in north Bengaluru has triggered a political row, putting the Congress-led Karnataka government under pressure from both the Kerala government and its own central leadership, while drawing sharp criticism from the BJP.

Birds undertake long migrations for survival and impulse. A seagull with a GPS tracker and Amur falcons migrating from Manipur to Africa spark curiosity. A political 'fly in and fly out' generates excitement. This 'bird' appears globally, its actions debated. Unity is crucial for overcoming challenges, as shown by a mouse helping pigeons.

Adani Defence & Aerospace will invest Rs 1.8 lakh crore next year. The focus is on unmanned and autonomous systems, and advanced guided weapons. This investment aims to strengthen India's future warfare capabilities. The company is already a major private defence player. It is expanding its reach in air, sea, and land domains.

A proposed electoral alliance between Bangladesh's National Citizen Party and Jamaat-e-Islami is causing divisions. Thirty NCP leaders have protested, citing Jamaat's controversial past including its role in the 1971 Liberation War. This move comes as seat-sharing talks near completion. Some NCP leaders previously belonged to Jamaat's student wing. Jamaat sought partnership with NCP over the BNP.

Bulgarian mystic Baba Vanga's 2026 predictions include World War Three, climate catastrophes, AI transformation, and alien encounters. She also foresees a new Russian leader emerging, potentially signaling the downfall of Vladimir Putin and a significant shift in global politics. These ominous forecasts paint a picture of widespread upheaval and transformation.

A shocking incident unfolded in Paramaribo, Suriname, where a man fatally stabbed nine individuals, including five children. The suspect, reportedly suffering from mental health issues, was wounded and apprehended by police. Four of his own children were among the victims. The attack occurred at and around his residence. Authorities are investigating the full circumstances of this tragedy.

UP School Holiday: Uttar Pradesh faces a severe cold wave. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered all schools closed until January 1. He directed officials to stay alert and ensure no one sleeps in the open. Funds are released for blankets, shelters, and bonfires. Relief work is underway across the state.

India secured a commanding 30-run victory over Sri Lanka in the fourth women's T20I. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma's record partnership powered India to a massive 221/2. Vaishnavi Sharma's bowling restricted Sri Lanka to 191/6. This win gives India a 4-0 lead in the five-match series.

The Ajit Pawar-led NCP has released its first list of 37 candidates for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. The party will contest the polls independently. Other parties like AAP have also announced candidates. The elections are scheduled for January 15. Nominations close on December 30. The Congress has allied with Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi for the civic body polls.

In his final Mann ki Baat of 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Indias key achievements over the year, including Operation Sindoor by the Air Force, the Ram temple flag installation, the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, and Indias growing global presence in science, sports, and culture.

Taxi fares in Arlington, Virginia are set to rise from January 1. New rates will increase the initial drop charge, distance fees, and waiting time costs. These adjustments aim to support drivers and keep local taxi services competitive. Similar fare increases are also being considered in Kaua'i County, Hawaii, for chartered tour taxis.

US President Donald Trump is set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Sunday. This meeting is crucial for advancing a peace agreement to end the ongoing war. The talks follow intensified Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities. President Trump also had a productive call with Russian President Vladimir Putin before the meeting.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced that the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the NCP (Sharad Pawar) faction will contest the Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal elections together. Pawar stated that this alliance aims to bring the family together again and that seat-sharing discussions are underway, with an announcement expected soon.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged states to boost manufacturing and the services sector, emphasizing India's potential to become a global services giant. He also highlighted the nation's capacity to transform into the world's food basket through advancements in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, dairying, and fisheries, aiming for significant food exports.

Former President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. He stated the United States has become the 'real' United Nations, resolving eight conflicts. Trump criticized the UN for its lack of involvement in global peace efforts. He is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss a peace plan.

Gordon Ramsay's daughter, Holly Ramsay, married Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty on Saturday, December 27th, at Bath Abbey in England. The celebrity chef proudly walked his daughter down the aisle, expressing his joy at gaining a new son-in-law. The couple, who confirmed their relationship in June 2023, announced their engagement in September 2024.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant advised young lawyers that law demands careful learning and integrity. He stated law is a long journey, not a sprint. Lawyers must adapt to technological disruption and complexity. They are expected to advise responsibly and elevate professional standards. Integrity is crucial for sustained success. The profession recognizes honesty and character.

Major cities around the world, including London and Singapore, have long used similar contactless systems. In the U.S., San Francisco launched a pay-go system earlier this year, joining Chicago and others.