The Economic Times News

England skipped a warm-up match against Australia A. This choice was part of a shortened Ashes tour plan. Now, England trails Australia two-nil. The team opted for an internal trial instead of a formal game.

The Commission for Air Quality Management has criticized the Delhi Development Authority for neglecting road maintenance, citing high dust levels and waste accumulation found during inspections. Operation Clean Air teams identified significant issues across 136 DDA-maintained road stretches, prompting the Commission to demand intensified corrective measures and improved operational efficiency to combat air pollution.

Pankaj Chaudhary is the new president of the Bharatiya Janata Party's Uttar Pradesh unit. Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced the election. Chaudhary, a seven-time Lok Sabha MP, belongs to the OBC category. He is considered close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Party leaders expressed confidence in his leadership for the 2027 assembly polls. The BJP aims for a significant victory.

Canadian skater Isabelle Weidemann secured a silver medal in the 3000m event at the Speed Skating World Cup in Hamar, Norway. She finished just behind the gold medalist. Her teammate Valrie Maltais also performed well, placing fourth. These strong results position Weidemann and Maltais favorably for Olympic qualification for Milan Cortina 2026.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the CBSE curriculum will now feature a 21-page history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Maratha Empire, correcting previous misconceptions. He also affirmed the state's strong financial position, highlighting fiscal discipline and significant foreign investment despite welfare scheme expenditures.

Six accused were arrested for the murder of Kabir alias Shiv Prakash, who was strangled and his body burnt over a property dispute. The suspects attempted to evade police by using basic phones, discarding SIM cards, and travelling on interior roads. Despite these efforts, a sustained investigation led to their capture.

NSW Police are responding to an active shooter incident at Sydney's Bondi Beach, with reports of two men in black clothing firing shots. Two individuals are in police custody, but the operation remains ongoing, and the public is urged to avoid the area and follow police directions.

Garena Free Fire Max players can snag in-game freebies using 12-character alphanumeric redeem codes, released regularly. These codes have limited validity and can only be used once, so prompt redemption is advised. Players can claim rewards by visiting the official redemption site and logging in with their game-linked accounts.

CUET-PG 2026: Applications are now open for CUET-PG 2026. Aspiring students can apply online until January 14, 2026. The examination will take place in March 2026 across India and abroad. This test is crucial for postgraduate admissions in central universities. Candidates should submit their applications early to avoid last-minute issues. More details will be released soon.

Tilak Varma is emerging as a T20I run-chase specialist, boasting the second-highest average among Test-playing nations behind Virat Kohli. Currently in good form against South Africa, Varma has expressed his flexibility to bat anywhere in the order for the team's benefit.

Australia is introducing new rules to curb excessive grocery pricing. Starting July 1, 2025, supermarkets will be prohibited from charging prices that are too high compared to supply costs. This move aims to lower grocery bills for families. Retailers face significant fines for non-compliance. The government emphasizes fairness in 'weekly shopping.'

Goa authorities have sealed Cafe CO2, a popular Vagator nightclub. The venue lacked mandatory fire safety approvals. Officials found basic fire safety systems absent. The establishment was built on wooden stilts, raising structural concerns. This action follows a devastating fire at another club. The state government is increasing inspections of tourism businesses.

Promoter Satadri Dutta was remanded to 14 days police custody after Lionel Messi's G.O.A.T India Tour 2025 event in Kolkata descended into chaos. Angry fans, unable to see the football star due to heavy security, vandalized the Salt Lake Stadium, breaking barricades and storming the pitch after Messi's swift departure.

India's Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, held important meetings with senior Democratic lawmakers. Discussions focused on strengthening India-US ties. Key areas included cooperation in artificial intelligence, defense, and trade. The envoy also explored collaboration on data privacy and security. These engagements aim to foster deeper bilateral relations and mutual interests between the two nations.

Akshaye Khanna's powerful portrayal of Rehman Dakait in Dhurandhar has gone viral. A humorous meme trend emerged, connecting his success to Akshay Kumar. Akshay Kumar responded to the playful meme. He had previously praised the film and Khanna's performance. Dhurandhar has crossed Rs 200 crore at the box office. A sequel is planned for March 2026.

BJP MP Sambit Patra accused Congress of politicizing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) issue by holding a rally, alleging it aims to protect infiltrators. He stated Congress sought the parliamentary discussion on SIR and questioned their stance on vote theft, noting their silence when they win. Patra highlighted the Home Minister's response to allegations of vote theft and infiltrators.

Mumbai records the highest road traffic carbon dioxide emissions per kilometre in India. High vehicle density drives this pollution. Other major cities like Delhi and Bengaluru also show elevated levels of nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide. This new data highlights the impact of urban transport on air quality across the nation.

According to the Indian Coast Guard, Coast Guard Ship C-420 conducted the emergency medevac of the crew member from the Malta-flagged merchant vessel MV Interasia Amplify. The rescue operation was carried out promptly after the distress call was received, ensuring the patient was safely evacuated for urgent medical treatment.

In a first since Partition, a Pakistani university has introduced a Sanskrit course, according to The Tribune. Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) has launched the course, with plans to include texts such as the Mahabharata and the Gita.

Delhi faces severe air pollution with AQI reaching 'Severe Plus' levels. Stage-IV restrictions under GRAP are now in effect across the National Capital Region. Environmentalists argue this plan is a temporary fix.

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan believes Cameron Green will be a prime target for KKR and CSK at the IPL 2026 auction, potentially replacing Andre Russell. Green's availability to bowl after recovering from surgery makes him a valuable all-rounder. Pathan also highlighted Daryl Mitchell's spin-playing ability as a key asset for teams like CSK.

Dubai Police have issued a public safety alert warning residents of unstable and rainy weather, urging them to stay alert and take precautions. The alert follows forecasts of rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and cooler temperatures across the UAE.

Former Karnataka MLA Dr Anjali Nimbalkar, a doctor, saved an American passenger's life on a Goa-New Delhi flight. The woman suffered a medical emergency, losing consciousness and pulse. Dr Nimbalkar administered CPR, reviving her. She stayed with the passenger throughout the flight. The timely intervention was praised by passengers and crew.

A 17-year-old girl tragically died after falling 30 meters from a cliff on the Sunshine Coast while attempting to take a photograph. She reportedly jumped a safety fence at a lookout to get a better view of the sunset. Despite efforts by bystanders and emergency services, she succumbed to severe head injuries at the scene.

Himalaya Nanda Devi Nuclear Device: A secret CIA mission in 1965 to spy on China resulted in a lost nuclear device on Nanda Devi. American and Indian climbers abandoned the plutonium-powered generator. Decades later, concerns persist about its potential environmental impact. The device remains lost, a lingering Cold War secret buried in the Himalayas.

India vs South Africa 3rd T20I Live Streaming: India aims to bounce back against South Africa in the third T20I at Dharamsala, with the series tied at 1-1. Both teams are vying for a crucial series lead, seeking momentum ahead of the T20 World Cup. The high-stakes encounter promises intense competition as preparations intensify.

Israeli forces eliminated Raed Saad, a key Hamas commander. He played a significant role in planning the October 7 attack. Saad was also responsible for weapons production for Hamas. His death is a major blow to Hamas's ability to rebuild its capabilities. The operation followed recent Hamas attempts to attack Israeli troops.

India vs South Africa 3rd T20I Playing 11 Prediction: India and South Africa are set for a crucial third T20I in Dharamsala. The five-match series is level at 1-1 after two exciting encounters. Suryakumar Yadav leads India against Aiden Markram's South Africa. Both teams aim to gain an advantage in this pivotal match. The contest promises to be thrilling for cricket fans.

The Indian Army is intensifying efforts to restore connectivity in Sri Lanka by installing Bailey bridges at Chilaw and Kilinochchi, following Cyclone Ditwah. An Engineer Task Force is working with Sri Lankan authorities to repair damaged roads and bridges. India also provided extensive medical assistance under Operation Sagar Bandhu.

John Cenas final wrestling match took place at WWE Saturday Nights Main Event. He faced Gunther in an emotional bout. The champion Gunther secured victory over Cena. Cena tapped out to a sleeper hold. This marked the end of Cenas illustrious career. Many WWE legends were present to witness the event.

Chinese actress He Qing, celebrated for her roles in classic literature adaptations, has passed away. She was 61. He Qing was known as one of the 'most beautiful woman in classical Chinese literature'. Her career spanned iconic portrayals in 'Journey to the West', 'Dream of the Red Chamber', 'Water Margin', and 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms'.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has secured a significant victory in Thiruvananthapuram's civic body elections. This win ends decades of Left rule. R Sreelekha, a retired IPS officer, is a strong contender for the Mayor's position. This marks a notable shift in Kerala's political landscape. Sreelekha's candidature from Sasthamangalam ward has garnered attention.

Nothing is set to expand its smartphone range with the upcoming Phone 4a and Phone 4a Pro. These devices are expected to feature Snapdragon 7 series processors, offering performance enhancements. The Pro variant may include eSIM support. Alongside the phones, new over-ear headphones are also in development. Pricing details and RAM/storage configurations have been leaked.

Congress leader Husain Dalwai welcomed Pakistan's Lahore University of Management Sciences introducing a Sanskrit course, stating Pakistan's connection to Indian history. He also criticized RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's remarks on national division, questioning Bhagwat's own party's stance and referencing Veer Savarkar's apologies to the British.

Usman Khawaja has declared himself fit for the third Ashes Test against England, starting December 17, 2025. The 38-year-old batter, who missed the previous match due to a back issue, feels 100 per cent and ready to play. The left-hand batter also spoke about his future, clarifying his plans regarding retirement.

Albert Einstein, a renowned physicist, believed mistakes are vital for progress. His quote highlights that avoiding errors means avoiding new experiences. This principle encourages trying new things, learning from setbacks, and stepping outside comfort zones. Embracing experimentation and curiosity leads to discovery and personal development. This philosophy promotes bold thinking and innovation.

Violence flared across Kerala after local body election results were announced. Clashes erupted in northern districts, including Kozhikode and Kannur. Political party offices were attacked, and vehicles were damaged. Several individuals sustained injuries in the incidents. Police intervened to control the volatile situations in various locations.

Delhi and NCR face severe pollution, prompting a potential shift to online classes for schools. Authorities have activated the highest level of pollution control measures. Construction, industry, and transport face strict restrictions. Essential services continue with safety norms. Residents are advised to stay indoors. The situation is being closely monitored.

Hollywood star Jim Carrey shared a profound thought. He believes everyone should chase their biggest dreams. Achieving riches and fame will show them these things are not the ultimate answer. This realization helps people find true purpose. Carrey's own journey led him to this wisdom. He advocates for inner peace over external validation.

The Congress party is set to hold a major rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on December 14, protesting alleged vote chori and the SIR issue. This event, a significant step in their campaign against the BJP-led government, will see participation from leaders and workers across several states, including Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.

West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose was denied entry to Salt Lake Stadium during a chaotic event featuring Lionel Messi. He deemed the incident an affront to his constitutional position and vowed to investigate the matter thoroughly. The chaos led to vandalism, arrests, and a high-level inquiry by the Chief Minister.

Delhi woke up to dense smog on Sunday. Air quality worsened to the 'severe' zone. Pollution curbs are in place. The city's average Air Quality Index reached 461. Visibility was extremely poor in many areas. Bawana recorded the highest AQI at 497. Schools shifted classes to hybrid mode. Prolonged exposure to this air quality poses serious health risks.

Malkangiri Collector Somesh Kumar Upadhyay reported that peace has been maintained following recent violence centered around a murder. The administration has assessed damages at Rs 3.34 crore and submitted the report to the government. As a precaution, the internet ban has been extended until Monday noon.

India's art market is booming, attracting new buyers and diversifying its offerings. Galleries are becoming more accessible, with younger collectors driving demand for a wider range of art. This growth signifies a maturing market, with increased interest in contemporary and material-based art. The ecosystem is expanding, creating new opportunities for artists and collectors alike.