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Srinagar: The Kashmir Valley’s popular tourist destinations, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, are once again bustling with visitors. Following fresh snowfall in the higher reaches, Sonamarg in Central Kashmir has transformed into a picturesque winter wonderland, drawing tourists in large numbers.&nbsp;Sonamarg, often referred to as the “Meadow of Gold,” has transformed into a vibrant resort, bustling with skiers, adventure enthusiasts, photographers, and tourists from across the country and abroad. After months, a significant influx of visitors has once again been witnessed at tourist destinations across the Valley. Tourists from different parts of India were seen joyfully playing in the heavy snow, praising the region’s mesmerizing beauty, while locals warmly welcomed the renewed surge of visitors.&nbsp;“We were really hoping to witness live snowfall, but even without it, we’re enjoying ourselves immensely. Despite the sub-zero temperatures, we don’t feel cold at all. Kashmir feels completely safe, and everyone should visit. It’s incredibly beautiful. We’re already planning our next trip here,” said a tourist.&nbsp;&nbsp;The revival in tourism comes in the aftermath of the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, in which 26 civilians lost their lives. The incident dealt a massive blow to Kashmir’s tourism sector, but the region is now gradually showing signs of recovery.&nbsp;Many tourists expressed awe at Kashmir’s natural beauty, saying they felt as though they had stepped into paradise. Several visitors remarked that they had never seen a place as breathtakingly beautiful as Sonamarg, underscoring the destination’s unmatched charm and its growing appeal among travellers.&nbsp;“We’re having an amazing time! It’s minus 10, but we’re enjoying every moment. Just wear proper clothes and come visit Kashmir. It’s truly a wonderful place,”&nbsp; said a tourist.&nbsp;Meanwhile, prolonged cold wave conditions across the Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh regions have led to the freezing of major water bodies, including Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake. Srinagar recorded its coldest night of the season on Friday, with temperatures plunging to minus 6 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ladakh continues to remain the coldest region in the country, with temperatures plunging to minus 24.6 degrees Celsius in the Dras area. Nyoma followed closely, recording a minimum temperature of minus 21.6 degrees Celsius, while Leh town registered a low of minus 14.4 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;The world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg registered a minimum temperature of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius, while South Kashmir’s popular tourist destination, Pahalgam, recorded a low of minus 7.6 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;&nbsp;Elsewhere in South Kashmir, Shopian experienced a minimum temperature of minus 7.7 degrees Celsius, and Pulwama shivered at minus 7.5 degrees. In Central Kashmir, the resort town of Sonamarg recorded a low of minus 5.4 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;The Kashmir Valley is currently experiencing Chillai Kalan, the harshest and coldest phase of winter. The 40-day period began on December 21.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Meteorological Department (MeT) has forecast partly to generally cloudy conditions, with the possibility of light snowfall over isolated higher reaches of North, Central, and South Kashmir. The department has also predicted a significant fall in minimum temperatures until January 10, after which temperatures are likely to rise by 1–2°C.&nbsp;Meanwhile, moderate fog is expected to prevail over the plains of the Jammu division, with dense fog at isolated places likely to continue over the next two days.

Sonamarg, often referred to as the “Meadow of Gold,” has transformed into a vibrant resort, bustling with skiers, adventure enthusiasts, photographers, and tourists from across the country and abroad. After months, a significant influx of visitors has been witnessed in the Valley.

Srinagar: The Kashmir Valley’s popular tourist destinations, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, are once again bustling with visitors. Following fresh snowfall in the higher reaches, Sonamarg in Central Kashmir has transformed into a picturesque winter wonderland, drawing tourists in large numbers. Sonamarg, often referred to as the “Meadow of Gold,” has transformed into a vibrant resort, bustling with skiers, adventure enthusiasts, photographers, and tourists from across the country and abroad. After months, a significant influx of visitors has once again been witnessed at tourist destinations across the Valley. Tourists from different parts of India were seen joyfully playing in the heavy snow, praising the region’s mesmerizing beauty, while locals warmly welcomed the renewed surge of visitors. “We were really hoping to witness live snowfall, but even without it, we’re enjoying ourselves immensely. Despite the sub-zero temperatures, we don’t feel cold at all. Kashmir feels completely safe, and everyone should visit. It’s incredibly beautiful. We’re already planning our next trip here,” said a tourist. The revival in tourism comes in the aftermath of the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, in which 26 civilians lost their lives. The incident dealt a massive blow to Kashmir’s tourism sector, but the region is now gradually showing signs of recovery. Many tourists expressed awe at Kashmir’s natural beauty, saying they felt as though they had stepped into paradise. Several visitors remarked that they had never seen a place as breathtakingly beautiful as Sonamarg, underscoring the destination’s unmatched charm and its growing appeal among travellers. “We’re having an amazing time! It’s minus 10, but we’re enjoying every moment. Just wear proper clothes and come visit Kashmir. It’s truly a wonderful place,” said a tourist. Meanwhile, prolonged cold wave conditions across the Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh regions have led to the freezing of major water bodies, including Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake. Srinagar recorded its coldest night of the season on Friday, with temperatures plunging to minus 6 degrees Celsius. Ladakh continues to remain the coldest region in the country, with temperatures plunging to minus 24.6 degrees Celsius in the Dras area. Nyoma followed closely, recording a minimum temperature of minus 21.6 degrees Celsius, while Leh town registered a low of minus 14.4 degrees Celsius. The world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg registered a minimum temperature of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius, while South Kashmir’s popular tourist destination, Pahalgam, recorded a low of minus 7.6 degrees Celsius. Elsewhere in South Kashmir, Shopian experienced a minimum temperature of minus 7.7 degrees Celsius, and Pulwama shivered at minus 7.5 degrees. In Central Kashmir, the resort town of Sonamarg recorded a low of minus 5.4 degrees Celsius. The Kashmir Valley is currently experiencing Chillai Kalan, the harshest and coldest phase of winter. The 40-day period began on December 21. The Meteorological Department (MeT) has forecast partly to generally cloudy conditions, with the possibility of light snowfall over isolated higher reaches of North, Central, and South Kashmir. The department has also predicted a significant fall in minimum temperatures until January 10, after which temperatures are likely to rise by 1–2°C. Meanwhile, moderate fog is expected to prevail over the plains of the Jammu division, with dense fog at isolated places likely to continue over the next two days.

Sonamarg, often referred to as the “Meadow of Gold,” has transformed into a vibrant resort, bustling with skiers, adventure enthusiasts, photographers, and tourists from across the country and abroad. After months, a significant influx of visitors has been witnessed in the Valley.

Sonamarg transforms into winter paradise as Kashmir tourism bounces back

India’s Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the 11th India International Regatta, a sailing event in the Southern Indian city of Chennai. Sonowal, who had earlier served as India's Sports minister, highlighted the efforts being undertaken by the Indian government to promote the Olympic sport at the city port. Chennai Port’s marine ecosystem, traffic coordination, safety oversight, and structured water access are enabling a week-long international regatta, he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The regatta is being conducted in the Chennai Port waters and Marina Beach frontage, with the Tamil Nadu Sailing Association (TNSA). The event is organised under the aegis of the Yachting Association of India (YAI) and the Asian Sailing Federation (ASAF) and is part of the ASAF Cup 2025–26 series.&nbsp;"The regatta demonstrates how port infrastructure serves national outcomes beyond cargo—by supporting international sport, public engagement with the sea, and coastal city identity. The event also creates a real-world learning window for students into maritime domains such as navigation, marine safety, seamanship, weather reading, and ocean awareness in an authentic sea-facing setting," Sonowal said.&nbsp;The week-long championship supports Chennai’s visibility in sports tourism and international youth exchanges while showcasing the city’s coastline and maritime culture to visiting teams and followers. 117 registered youth sailors from 13 nations are participating in this event.&nbsp;As an Asian Sailing Federation (ASAF) Cup regatta, the championship strengthens India’s presence on the Asian sailing calendar and deepens competitive exposure for young athletes.&nbsp;Further, the minister provided government funding for the Royal Madras Yacht Club (RMYC) for imparting Sailing training to 20 students of the Chennai Port School. Founded in 1911, the RMYC, situated within the Chennai Port, has stood as a proud emblem of India's maritime heritage. One of the oldest yacht clubs in the country, it is among the pioneers in nurturing seamanship and competitive sailing.&nbsp;&nbsp;The RMYC is on a mission to make sailing accessible to all, breaking the myth that it is a sport only for the elite. The Club actively collaborates with schools, NCC, CRPF, Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and youth organisations, encouraging participation from students across socio-economic backgrounds. Royal Madras Yacht Club has been training underprivileged students from government schools over the last year, which has enabled young talent from less fortunate backgrounds to take part in prestigious events such as the India International Regatta and the Indian Navy's FOTNA Cup.&nbsp;Addressing an event of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, Sonowal mentioned, "Our port capacity has more than doubled in the last 10 years, our vessel turnaround time reduced by 50%, our inland cargo transport grew by over 700%, our seafarers grew by almost 200%, our coastal cargo movement doubled during the last decade. Our cruise tourism grew by a massive 400%, today 9 of our major ports rank in the top 100 ports of the world, and we are better than advanced maritime nations in various key port performance indicators." He also inaugurated several infrastructure enhancement projects at the Chennai Port and the Kamarajar Port in the city.

The week-long championship supports Chennai’s visibility in sports tourism and international youth exchanges while showcasing the city’s coastline and maritime culture to visiting teams and followers. 117 registered youth sailors from 13 nations are participating in this event.

India’s Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the 11th India International Regatta, a sailing event in the Southern Indian city of Chennai. Sonowal, who had earlier served as India's Sports minister, highlighted the efforts being undertaken by the Indian government to promote the Olympic sport at the city port. Chennai Port’s marine ecosystem, traffic coordination, safety oversight, and structured water access are enabling a week-long international regatta, he said. The regatta is being conducted in the Chennai Port waters and Marina Beach frontage, with the Tamil Nadu Sailing Association (TNSA). The event is organised under the aegis of the Yachting Association of India (YAI) and the Asian Sailing Federation (ASAF) and is part of the ASAF Cup 2025–26 series. "The regatta demonstrates how port infrastructure serves national outcomes beyond cargo—by supporting international sport, public engagement with the sea, and coastal city identity. The event also creates a real-world learning window for students into maritime domains such as navigation, marine safety, seamanship, weather reading, and ocean awareness in an authentic sea-facing setting," Sonowal said. The week-long championship supports Chennai’s visibility in sports tourism and international youth exchanges while showcasing the city’s coastline and maritime culture to visiting teams and followers. 117 registered youth sailors from 13 nations are participating in this event. As an Asian Sailing Federation (ASAF) Cup regatta, the championship strengthens India’s presence on the Asian sailing calendar and deepens competitive exposure for young athletes. Further, the minister provided government funding for the Royal Madras Yacht Club (RMYC) for imparting Sailing training to 20 students of the Chennai Port School. Founded in 1911, the RMYC, situated within the Chennai Port, has stood as a proud emblem of India's maritime heritage. One of the oldest yacht clubs in the country, it is among the pioneers in nurturing seamanship and competitive sailing. The RMYC is on a mission to make sailing accessible to all, breaking the myth that it is a sport only for the elite. The Club actively collaborates with schools, NCC, CRPF, Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and youth organisations, encouraging participation from students across socio-economic backgrounds. Royal Madras Yacht Club has been training underprivileged students from government schools over the last year, which has enabled young talent from less fortunate backgrounds to take part in prestigious events such as the India International Regatta and the Indian Navy's FOTNA Cup. Addressing an event of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, Sonowal mentioned, "Our port capacity has more than doubled in the last 10 years, our vessel turnaround time reduced by 50%, our inland cargo transport grew by over 700%, our seafarers grew by almost 200%, our coastal cargo movement doubled during the last decade. Our cruise tourism grew by a massive 400%, today 9 of our major ports rank in the top 100 ports of the world, and we are better than advanced maritime nations in various key port performance indicators." He also inaugurated several infrastructure enhancement projects at the Chennai Port and the Kamarajar Port in the city.

The week-long championship supports Chennai’s visibility in sports tourism and international youth exchanges while showcasing the city’s coastline and maritime culture to visiting teams and followers. 117 registered youth sailors from 13 nations are participating in this event.

Indian govt making efforts to promote sailing, an Olympic sport: Shipping Minister

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) Chairperson Mamata Banerjee on Friday launched a protest in Kolkata against the Enforcement Directorate (ED), a day after the central agency conducted raids at the office of I-PAC. Banerjee criticised the detention of Trinamool Congress MPs in Delhi, accusing the BJP-led central government of suppressing democratic protest and misusing law enforcement agencies. She said dignity and respect in a democracy are non-negotiable, asserting that citizens and elected representatives cannot be treated arbitrarily by those in power. Earlier in the day, several Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs were detained in the national capital on Friday for protesting outside Union Home Minister Amit Shah's office against the Enforcement Directorate (ED) raid on the I-PAC office. In a post on X, CM Banerjee wrote, "I strongly condemn the shameful and unacceptable treatment meted out to our Members of Parliament. Dragging elected representatives on the streets for exercising their democratic right to protest outside the Home Minister's office is not law enforcement - it is arrogance in uniform. This is a democracy, not the BJP's private property. Democracy does not function on the convenience or comfort of those in power. When BJP leaders protest, they expect red carpets and special privileges. When opposition MPs raise their voices, they are dragged, detained, and humiliated. This double standard exposes the BJP's idea of democracy - obedience, not dissent." "Let it be clear: respect is mutual. You respect us, we respect you. You drag us on the road, and we will drag you back to the constitutional idea of tolerance, dissent, and democratic morality. This is our India. We are citizens by right, not at the mercy of a chair, a badge, or a position of power. No government, no party, and no Home Minister gets to decide who deserves dignity in a democracy," the post read. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) accused Banerjee of entering the residential premises of Prateek Jain, the director of top political consultancy group I-PAC, during its ongoing search operation in Kolkata and taking away "key evidence", including physical documents and electronic devices. In a statement, the ED said that its team was conducting the search proceedings in a peaceful and professional manner until the arrival of the West Bengal Chief Minister, along with a large number of police officials.

Banerjee criticised the detention of Trinamool Congress MPs in Delhi, accusing the BJP-led central government of suppressing democratic protest and misusing law enforcement agencies.

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) Chairperson Mamata Banerjee on Friday launched a protest in Kolkata against the Enforcement Directorate (ED), a day after the central agency conducted raids at the office of I-PAC. Banerjee criticised the detention of Trinamool Congress MPs in Delhi, accusing the BJP-led central government of suppressing democratic protest and misusing law enforcement agencies. She said dignity and respect in a democracy are non-negotiable, asserting that citizens and elected representatives cannot be treated arbitrarily by those in power. Earlier in the day, several Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs were detained in the national capital on Friday for protesting outside Union Home Minister Amit Shah's office against the Enforcement Directorate (ED) raid on the I-PAC office. In a post on X, CM Banerjee wrote, "I strongly condemn the shameful and unacceptable treatment meted out to our Members of Parliament. Dragging elected representatives on the streets for exercising their democratic right to protest outside the Home Minister's office is not law enforcement - it is arrogance in uniform. This is a democracy, not the BJP's private property. Democracy does not function on the convenience or comfort of those in power. When BJP leaders protest, they expect red carpets and special privileges. When opposition MPs raise their voices, they are dragged, detained, and humiliated. This double standard exposes the BJP's idea of democracy - obedience, not dissent." "Let it be clear: respect is mutual. You respect us, we respect you. You drag us on the road, and we will drag you back to the constitutional idea of tolerance, dissent, and democratic morality. This is our India. We are citizens by right, not at the mercy of a chair, a badge, or a position of power. No government, no party, and no Home Minister gets to decide who deserves dignity in a democracy," the post read. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) accused Banerjee of entering the residential premises of Prateek Jain, the director of top political consultancy group I-PAC, during its ongoing search operation in Kolkata and taking away "key evidence", including physical documents and electronic devices. In a statement, the ED said that its team was conducting the search proceedings in a peaceful and professional manner until the arrival of the West Bengal Chief Minister, along with a large number of police officials.

Banerjee criticised the detention of Trinamool Congress MPs in Delhi, accusing the BJP-led central government of suppressing democratic protest and misusing law enforcement agencies.

Mamata Banerjee leads protest in Kolkata against ED over I-PAC raids

Kyvex, the sovereign AI platform, based in India by Indian billionaire and global entrepreneur Pearl Kapur, is persistently stocking its leadership unit by applying strategic hires to expand its AI-first ecosystem throughout India and worldwide markets.&nbsp;The most recent step is that of Rajat Bedi, a renowned Bollywood actor and entrepreneur, who has been invested in and hired by Kyvex as Business Development Lead in India. Bedi will also act as the Brand Ambassador of Kyvex in India, along with this position, and as such, will drive awareness and implementation of AI-driven solutions, especially AI applications in the entertainment and media sector.&nbsp;The onboarding of Rajat Bedi is a major move towards the vision Kyvex has in the connection between technology, creativity and scalable business innovation. The knowledge of the entertainment ecosystem that he has will put Kyvex at the forefront of bringing new opportunities to the AI-driven content creation, virtual production, talent analytics, digital rights management, and immersive audience experiences.&nbsp;To tighten the technology leadership of Kyvex, the firm has chosen Ravindra Varna, a renowned AI engineer and an ex-Wipro employee to lead the company as its Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Having more than 26 years of expertise in technology (AI), LLM, cloud architecture, and massive digital transformation, Varna will spearhead the core technology roadmap at Kyvex and supervise the creation of its Sovereign AI platform, which will be resilient, secure, and scalable worldwide.&nbsp;These hires are the follow-up of Kyvex recently unveiling onboarding major venture capital executives, Pranav Sharma and Sameer Salgar of Blue Gold, into the firm to assist in expanding Kyvex's sovereign AI efforts worldwide. Their strategic direction has assisted the growth of Kyvex in controlled markets, equity funding, governments and enterprise ecosystems.&nbsp;With regards to the new additions, Pearl Kapur, Founder of Kyvex, remarked, the future being developed by Kyvex is one where AI is free, moral, and well-established in the reality sectors. As leaders such as Rajat Bedi promote business development and AI implementation in India and Ravindra Varna consolidates our technology base, we will be in a good place to jumpstart innovation in the entertainment, enterprise, and governance.&nbsp;The sovereign AI platform of Kyvex is aimed at equipping countries and businesses with localised, secure, and compliant AI infrastructure, allowing them to maintain their control over data, intelligence, and innovation and compete in the global level.&nbsp;As the leadership team grows fast and with a natural emphasis on AI-driven change, Kyvex is already becoming a force to be reckoned with in India and globally as the future of sovereign AI.

The onboarding of Rajat Bedi is a major move towards the vision Kyvex has in the connection between technology, creativity and scalable business innovation.

Kyvex, the sovereign AI platform, based in India by Indian billionaire and global entrepreneur Pearl Kapur, is persistently stocking its leadership unit by applying strategic hires to expand its AI-first ecosystem throughout India and worldwide markets. The most recent step is that of Rajat Bedi, a renowned Bollywood actor and entrepreneur, who has been invested in and hired by Kyvex as Business Development Lead in India. Bedi will also act as the Brand Ambassador of Kyvex in India, along with this position, and as such, will drive awareness and implementation of AI-driven solutions, especially AI applications in the entertainment and media sector. The onboarding of Rajat Bedi is a major move towards the vision Kyvex has in the connection between technology, creativity and scalable business innovation. The knowledge of the entertainment ecosystem that he has will put Kyvex at the forefront of bringing new opportunities to the AI-driven content creation, virtual production, talent analytics, digital rights management, and immersive audience experiences. To tighten the technology leadership of Kyvex, the firm has chosen Ravindra Varna, a renowned AI engineer and an ex-Wipro employee to lead the company as its Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Having more than 26 years of expertise in technology (AI), LLM, cloud architecture, and massive digital transformation, Varna will spearhead the core technology roadmap at Kyvex and supervise the creation of its Sovereign AI platform, which will be resilient, secure, and scalable worldwide. These hires are the follow-up of Kyvex recently unveiling onboarding major venture capital executives, Pranav Sharma and Sameer Salgar of Blue Gold, into the firm to assist in expanding Kyvex's sovereign AI efforts worldwide. Their strategic direction has assisted the growth of Kyvex in controlled markets, equity funding, governments and enterprise ecosystems. With regards to the new additions, Pearl Kapur, Founder of Kyvex, remarked, the future being developed by Kyvex is one where AI is free, moral, and well-established in the reality sectors. As leaders such as Rajat Bedi promote business development and AI implementation in India and Ravindra Varna consolidates our technology base, we will be in a good place to jumpstart innovation in the entertainment, enterprise, and governance. The sovereign AI platform of Kyvex is aimed at equipping countries and businesses with localised, secure, and compliant AI infrastructure, allowing them to maintain their control over data, intelligence, and innovation and compete in the global level. As the leadership team grows fast and with a natural emphasis on AI-driven change, Kyvex is already becoming a force to be reckoned with in India and globally as the future of sovereign AI.

The onboarding of Rajat Bedi is a major move towards the vision Kyvex has in the connection between technology, creativity and scalable business innovation.

Kyvex strengthens leadership with Bollywood actor Rajat Bedi, AI veteran Ravindra Varna to accelerate sovereign AI vision

After being criticised for allowing people to make obscene and nude content through its AI-based services, Elon Musk-led social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has limited image editing with its AI tool Grok to paying users.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, those who don't subscribe can still use use Grok to edit images on its separate app and website, reported BBC.&nbsp;Grok is an AI tool which users can use to tag directly in posts or replies under other users' posts to seek a particular response.&nbsp;It has also allowed users to request it to edit images and ask it to create almost nude pics of people.<h2>Indian, Musk's X cross swords</h2>Similar concerns were raised in India after a late December 2025 update to Grok allowed people to digitally alter images of others by undressing them—both celebrities and private individuals—mostly without their consent.&nbsp;The ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY) sent a notice to X on January 2 seeking reply in the case. However, the ministry is not happy with the initial reply of the company.The ministry in its notice had warned X to comply with the Information Technology Act, 2000 and said that failure to do so could result in the loss of legal protection under Section 79 of the IT Act.&nbsp;This would make X liable for action under the IT Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).X has also been asked by MeitY to immediately carry out a detailed technical and governance-level review of Grok to avoid the generation and promotion of any sexually explicit or objectionable content.<h2>Musk's response</h2>After the criticism xAI, Musk’s AI company, acknowledged the lapses and said to introduce stricter filters to prevent misuse. However, Musk &nbsp;downplayed the issue by saying responsibility lies with the user.&nbsp;“Anyone using Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content," said Musk.

The ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY) sent a notice to X on January 2 seeking reply regarding the misuse of mages of others—both celebrities and private individuals.

After being criticised for allowing people to make obscene and nude content through its AI-based services, Elon Musk-led social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has limited image editing with its AI tool Grok to paying users. However, those who don't subscribe can still use use Grok to edit images on its separate app and website, reported BBC. Grok is an AI tool which users can use to tag directly in posts or replies under other users' posts to seek a particular response. It has also allowed users to request it to edit images and ask it to create almost nude pics of people. Indian, Musk's X cross swords Similar concerns were raised in India after a late December 2025 update to Grok allowed people to digitally alter images of others by undressing them—both celebrities and private individuals—mostly without their consent. The ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY) sent a notice to X on January 2 seeking reply in the case. However, the ministry is not happy with the initial reply of the company. The ministry in its notice had warned X to comply with the Information Technology Act, 2000 and said that failure to do so could result in the loss of legal protection under Section 79 of the IT Act. This would make X liable for action under the IT Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). X has also been asked by MeitY to immediately carry out a detailed technical and governance-level review of Grok to avoid the generation and promotion of any sexually explicit or objectionable content. Musk's response After the criticism xAI, Musk’s AI company, acknowledged the lapses and said to introduce stricter filters to prevent misuse. However, Musk downplayed the issue by saying responsibility lies with the user. “Anyone using Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content," said Musk.

The ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY) sent a notice to X on January 2 seeking reply regarding the misuse of mages of others—both celebrities and private individuals.

Musk-led X puts limit to editing with its AI tool Grok after backlash

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has blamed the collapse of a proposed India–US trade deal on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While appearing on a podcast, Donald Trump's commerce secretary said that the trade deal did not materialise because Modi never made a personal call to the POTUS.<h2>Modi to blame for India-US trade deal failure?</h2>Speaking on the All In Podcast, Lutnick said the agreement was essentially ready but stalled because the final political outreach never happened. "I set the deal up," he said, adding that he had asked Indian officials to get Modi to call Trump, but "They (India) were uncomfortable with it. So, Modi didn't call."According to Lutnick, Washington had assumed India would be among the first countries to wrap up a trade agreement under Trump's second term. On that assumption, the US pushed ahead with negotiations with other nations at higher rates. Deals with Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam were concluded first, and at tariff levels that later complicated talks with New Delhi.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pulls-us-out-of-66-organisations-and-treaties-including-india-led-international-solar-alliance-1767847347430">US exits 66 orgs and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance</a>"So that Friday left. The middle of the next week we did Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam. We announced a whole bunch of deals," Lutnick said. "And because we negotiated them and assumed India was gonna be done before them... I had negotiated them at a higher rate."He added that the conditions India believed were still on offer were no longer valid. "So now the problem is the deals came out at a higher rate and then India calls back it says oh, 'okay, We're ready,' I said ready for what?" Lutnick said. India has yet to formally respond to Lutnick’s remarks.&nbsp;Watch what he said here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center">BIG BREAKING: India trade deal isn&#39;t done because PM Modi did not call Trump, claims US Commerce Secretary Lutnick &quot;I set the deal up. But you had to have Modi call President Trump. They (India) were uncomfortable with it. So Modi didn&#39;t call.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/gFiUGGaJRl">pic.twitter.com/gFiUGGaJRl</a>&mdash; Shashank Mattoo (@MattooShashank) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattooShashank/status/2009474733818232944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h2>What now?</h2>Lutnick said that the US has now "stepped back from that trade deal that we had agreed to earlier. We are not thinking about it anymore."The US Commerce secretary's comments come on the heels of a bipartisan Russia sanctions bill approved by Trump on Wednesday (Jan 7) that targets countries buying Russian oil. The legislation, penned by senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, authorises tariffs of up to 500 per cent on imports from countries like India.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-pm-modi-is-not-happy-with-me-over-tariffs-says-trump-but-assures-continued-strong-ties-1767726513565">'PM Modi is not happy with me over tariffs,' says Trump, but assures strong ties</a>Explicitly naming India, China and Brazil, Lutnick said that the bill would give Trump "tremendous leverage" to incentivise these nations to stop buying the cheap Russian oil that "provides the financing for Putin's bloodbath against Ukraine".Recently, while speaking to reporters, Trump said Modi knew he (POTUS) was unhappy with India's oil imports from Russia and warned tariffs could be raised "very quickly." Trade talks between the two nations fell apart in 2025, when Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent, the highest rate imposed on any major economy. That included a 25 per cent retaliatory levy tied directly to India's continued purchases of Russian oil.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says an India-US trade deal collapsed because PM Narendra Modi never personally called President Donald Trump. The deal, once ready, fell apart as Washington moved on, he claimed. Watch what he said here.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has blamed the collapse of a proposed India–US trade deal on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While appearing on a podcast, Donald Trump's commerce secretary said that the trade deal did not materialise because Modi never made a personal call to the POTUS. Modi to blame for India-US trade deal failure? Speaking on the All In Podcast, Lutnick said the agreement was essentially ready but stalled because the final political outreach never happened. "I set the deal up," he said, adding that he had asked Indian officials to get Modi to call Trump, but "They (India) were uncomfortable with it. So, Modi didn't call." According to Lutnick, Washington had assumed India would be among the first countries to wrap up a trade agreement under Trump's second term. On that assumption, the US pushed ahead with negotiations with other nations at higher rates. Deals with Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam were concluded first, and at tariff levels that later complicated talks with New Delhi. Also read | US exits 66 orgs and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance "So that Friday left. The middle of the next week we did Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam. We announced a whole bunch of deals," Lutnick said. "And because we negotiated them and assumed India was gonna be done before them... I had negotiated them at a higher rate." He added that the conditions India believed were still on offer were no longer valid. "So now the problem is the deals came out at a higher rate and then India calls back it says oh, 'okay, We're ready,' I said ready for what?" Lutnick said. India has yet to formally respond to Lutnick’s remarks. Watch what he said here:

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says an India-US trade deal collapsed because PM Narendra Modi never personally called President Donald Trump. The deal, once ready, fell apart as Washington moved on, he claimed. Watch what he said here.

India lost a major trade deal with US because of ‘no call from Modi’, says Trump aide Lutnick

Prolonged cold wave conditions across the Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh regions have led to the freezing of major water bodies, including Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake. Srinagar recorded its coldest night of the season today, with temperatures plunging to minus 6 degrees Celsius.Meanwhile, Ladakh continues to remain the coldest region in the country, with temperatures plunging to minus 24.6 degrees Celsius in the Dras area. Nyoma followed closely, recording a minimum temperature of minus 21.6 degrees Celsius, while Leh town registered a low of minus 14.4 degrees Celsius.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-digital-blackout-crosses-12-hour-mark-internet-flatlines-at-1-as-protests-continue-to-rage-1767938781298">Iran’s digital blackout crosses 12-hour mark, internet flatlines at 1% as protests continue to rage</a>As forecast by the Meteorological Department, temperatures witnessed a sharp and sudden decline across major districts, significantly intensifying the winter chill. Srinagar Airport recorded a low of minus 7.4 degrees Celsius, the coldest of the season so far.The world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg registered a minimum temperature of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius, while South Kashmir’s popular tourist destination, Pahalgam, recorded a low of minus 7.6 degrees Celsius.Elsewhere in South Kashmir, Shopian experienced a minimum temperature of minus 7.7 degrees Celsius, and Pulwama shivered at minus 7.5 degrees. In Central Kashmir, the resort town of Sonamarg recorded a low of minus 5.4 degrees Celsius.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/temple-restoration-reveals-suspected-tiger-skins-claws-in-gujarat-1767925258025">Temple restoration reveals suspected tiger skins, claws in Gujarat</a>The Kashmir Valley is currently experiencing Chillai Kalan, the harshest and coldest phase of winter. The 40-day period began on December 21.The Meteorological Department (MeT) has forecast partly to generally cloudy conditions, with the possibility of light snowfall over isolated higher reaches of North, Central, and South Kashmir. The department has also predicted a significant fall in minimum temperatures until January 10, after which temperatures are likely to rise by 1–2°C.Meanwhile, moderate fog is expected to prevail over the plains of the Jammu division, with dense fog at isolated places likely to continue over the next two days.

A brutal cold wave has frozen Kashmir and Ladakh, turning Dal Lake to ice as Srinagar logs its coldest night at minus 6°C. 

Prolonged cold wave conditions across the Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh regions have led to the freezing of major water bodies, including Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake. Srinagar recorded its coldest night of the season today, with temperatures plunging to minus 6 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Ladakh continues to remain the coldest region in the country, with temperatures plunging to minus 24.6 degrees Celsius in the Dras area. Nyoma followed closely, recording a minimum temperature of minus 21.6 degrees Celsius, while Leh town registered a low of minus 14.4 degrees Celsius. Also read | Iran’s digital blackout crosses 12-hour mark, internet flatlines at 1% as protests continue to rage As forecast by the Meteorological Department, temperatures witnessed a sharp and sudden decline across major districts, significantly intensifying the winter chill. Srinagar Airport recorded a low of minus 7.4 degrees Celsius, the coldest of the season so far. The world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg registered a minimum temperature of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius, while South Kashmir’s popular tourist destination, Pahalgam, recorded a low of minus 7.6 degrees Celsius. Elsewhere in South Kashmir, Shopian experienced a minimum temperature of minus 7.7 degrees Celsius, and Pulwama shivered at minus 7.5 degrees. In Central Kashmir, the resort town of Sonamarg recorded a low of minus 5.4 degrees Celsius. Also read | Temple restoration reveals suspected tiger skins, claws in Gujarat The Kashmir Valley is currently experiencing Chillai Kalan, the harshest and coldest phase of winter. The 40-day period began on December 21. The Meteorological Department (MeT) has forecast partly to generally cloudy conditions, with the possibility of light snowfall over isolated higher reaches of North, Central, and South Kashmir. The department has also predicted a significant fall in minimum temperatures until January 10, after which temperatures are likely to rise by 1–2°C. Meanwhile, moderate fog is expected to prevail over the plains of the Jammu division, with dense fog at isolated places likely to continue over the next two days.

A brutal cold wave has frozen Kashmir and Ladakh, turning Dal Lake to ice as Srinagar logs its coldest night at minus 6°C.&nbsp;

Severe cold wave freezes Dal Lake as Kashmir, Ladakh reel under sub-zero temperatures

A routine temple renovation in Gujarat’s Rajpipla town has led to the discovery of a large cache of suspected wildlife contraband, shocking local residents and authorities alike. Nearly 40 suspected tiger skins and more than 100 claws were recovered during repair work at the temple, raising serious concerns about illegal wildlife trafficking and the misuse of religious premises to hide protected animal parts.<h2>How the discovery was made</h2>The discovery was made when workers were dismantling old structures inside the temple complex as part of restoration and repair activities.While clearing debris and opening sealed sections of the building, workers reportedly found bundles wrapped in cloth and concealed in hidden spaces. Upon unwrapping them, the contents appeared to be animal skins and claws, prompting immediate alerts to temple authorities and local officials. Officials from the forest department and local police reached the site soon after and seized the items for further examination.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drug-officials-shocked-to-find-goat-blood-packed-in-blood-bags-for-humans-during-raid-in-hyderabad-1767891856069">Officials raid Hyderabad firm, find goat blood packed in blood bags for humans</a>Preliminary observations suggest that the recovered materials may belong to tigers, a species protected under the Wildlife Protection Act. However, authorities have clarified that the final confirmation will come only after forensic and laboratory analysis.<h2>“Extremely serious” situation</h2>A senior forest department official described the recovery as “extremely serious,” noting that possession and storage of tiger body parts is a punishable offence. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, and an in-depth investigation has been launched to trace the origin of the items.Investigators are now trying to determine how long the suspected skins and claws were stored inside the temple and who was responsible for hiding them. Officials are also probing whether the recovery is linked to a larger wildlife smuggling network operating in the region.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-mamata-forcibly-took-away-evidence-says-ed-after-high-drama-during-raid-at-i-pac-moves-hc-1767879453343">‘CM Mamata forcibly took away evidence’, says ED after I-PAC raids, moves HC</a>The incident has sparked outrage among wildlife conservationists, who say it highlights the continued threat to endangered species despite strict laws. Local residents expressed disbelief that such a significant cache could remain hidden for years within a public religious space. Authorities have assured strict action once the investigation is complete.Detect AI with Copyleaks &nbsp;

A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, and an in-depth investigation has been launched to trace the origin of the items.

A routine temple renovation in Gujarat’s Rajpipla town has led to the discovery of a large cache of suspected wildlife contraband, shocking local residents and authorities alike. Nearly 40 suspected tiger skins and more than 100 claws were recovered during repair work at the temple, raising serious concerns about illegal wildlife trafficking and the misuse of religious premises to hide protected animal parts. How the discovery was made The discovery was made when workers were dismantling old structures inside the temple complex as part of restoration and repair activities. While clearing debris and opening sealed sections of the building, workers reportedly found bundles wrapped in cloth and concealed in hidden spaces. Upon unwrapping them, the contents appeared to be animal skins and claws, prompting immediate alerts to temple authorities and local officials. Officials from the forest department and local police reached the site soon after and seized the items for further examination. Also read | Officials raid Hyderabad firm, find goat blood packed in blood bags for humans Preliminary observations suggest that the recovered materials may belong to tigers, a species protected under the Wildlife Protection Act. However, authorities have clarified that the final confirmation will come only after forensic and laboratory analysis. “Extremely serious” situation A senior forest department official described the recovery as “extremely serious,” noting that possession and storage of tiger body parts is a punishable offence. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, and an in-depth investigation has been launched to trace the origin of the items. Investigators are now trying to determine how long the suspected skins and claws were stored inside the temple and who was responsible for hiding them. Officials are also probing whether the recovery is linked to a larger wildlife smuggling network operating in the region. Also read | ‘CM Mamata forcibly took away evidence’, says ED after I-PAC raids, moves HC The incident has sparked outrage among wildlife conservationists, who say it highlights the continued threat to endangered species despite strict laws. Local residents expressed disbelief that such a significant cache could remain hidden for years within a public religious space. Authorities have assured strict action once the investigation is complete. Detect AI with Copyleaks

A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, and an in-depth investigation has been launched to trace the origin of the items.

Temple restoration reveals suspected tiger skins, claws in Gujarat

Addressing the French diplomatic corps, French President Emmanuel Macron has urged against the fragmentation of the global order, emphasising the need for cooperation between the G7 and BRICS groupings as France holds the G7 presidency and India chairs BRICS this year. In remarks highlighting the importance of multilateral dialogue, Macron said, "We should fight against the fragmentation of the world. G7 should not be an anti-China club or anti BRICS group. BRICS can't be an anti-G7 group. India being the BRICS President, it can create bridges, working with BRICS essential. It is a priority for G7, and BRICS to work."&nbsp;Macron described India, Australia, and Indonesia as France's "unprecedented" partners in key areas, adding that these are "solid partners" in defence, security, artificial intelligence, and climate change. The comments show Franco-Indian relations on a firm footing, with Macron announcing he will travel to India next month to attend the AI Impact Summit to take place in Delhi. He has also invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the German Chancellor to attend the Africa-France summit, scheduled for May 11-12, 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya.&nbsp;The statements come as India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is in France for high-level talks. Jaishankar held wide-ranging discussions with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, describing them as "driven by the comfort and depth of our Strategic Partnership."&nbsp;Jaishankar said, "France is our earliest Strategic Partner in Europe, and I think the quality of our ties is something very special. So we discussed our bilateral cooperation, global issues, we hope to welcome President Macron in India soon." The meetings focused on advancing bilateral ties, elevating India-EU engagement, and sharing perspectives on global developments.&nbsp;Jaishankar also participated in the inaugural India-Weimar Format meeting with the foreign ministers of France, Germany (represented by Johann Wadephul), and Poland (Radosław Sikorski). Discussions covered deepening India-EU relations, Indo-Pacific challenges, and the Ukraine conflict. France is the first foreign destination of India's external affairs minister in 2026.

French President Emmanuel Macron confirms his India visit next month; calls for G7-BRICS Bridge

Addressing the French diplomatic corps, French President Emmanuel Macron has urged against the fragmentation of the global order, emphasising the need for cooperation between the G7 and BRICS groupings as France holds the G7 presidency and India chairs BRICS this year. In remarks highlighting the importance of multilateral dialogue, Macron said, "We should fight against the fragmentation of the world. G7 should not be an anti-China club or anti BRICS group. BRICS can't be an anti-G7 group. India being the BRICS President, it can create bridges, working with BRICS essential. It is a priority for G7, and BRICS to work." Macron described India, Australia, and Indonesia as France's "unprecedented" partners in key areas, adding that these are "solid partners" in defence, security, artificial intelligence, and climate change. The comments show Franco-Indian relations on a firm footing, with Macron announcing he will travel to India next month to attend the AI Impact Summit to take place in Delhi. He has also invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the German Chancellor to attend the Africa-France summit, scheduled for May 11-12, 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya. The statements come as India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is in France for high-level talks. Jaishankar held wide-ranging discussions with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, describing them as "driven by the comfort and depth of our Strategic Partnership." Jaishankar said, "France is our earliest Strategic Partner in Europe, and I think the quality of our ties is something very special. So we discussed our bilateral cooperation, global issues, we hope to welcome President Macron in India soon." The meetings focused on advancing bilateral ties, elevating India-EU engagement, and sharing perspectives on global developments. Jaishankar also participated in the inaugural India-Weimar Format meeting with the foreign ministers of France, Germany (represented by Johann Wadephul), and Poland (Radosław Sikorski). Discussions covered deepening India-EU relations, Indo-Pacific challenges, and the Ukraine conflict. France is the first foreign destination of India's external affairs minister in 2026.

Macron described India, Australia, and Indonesia as France's ‘unprecedented’ partners in key areas, adding that these are ‘solid partners’ in defence, security, artificial intelligence, and climate change

In a joint raid led by the Drug Control Administration (DCA) on an import-export firm in the Kachiguda area of Hyderabad city in Telangana, officials found around 1,000 litres of animal blood illegally collected from goats and sheep and packed in blood bags meant for storing human blood. The shocking recovery raised serious questions and suspicions that the blood was being misused. Besides the goat blood, some highly advanced machines used specifically in blood packaging were also found on the premises. The owner of the firm does not have the licence for the machine or blood.&nbsp;Central Drug Control officials, along with Hyderabad Police and state drug control authorities, had carried out the raid acting on secret information.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-the-energy-greed-of-north-venezuela-s-interim-president-slams-us-for-drugs-democracy-falsehoods-1767887211995">‘It’s the energy greed of North’: Venezuela’s interim president slams US for drugs, democracy falsehoods</a>&nbsp;Even senior officials were shocked when they found animal blood stored in blood bags meant for human use.Drug Control officials believe it could have been used for unauthorised clinical trials, experimental purposes, or to prepare culture media for lab tests.&nbsp;“We still don’t know why such a large quantity of animal blood was being collected and transported. This will be a key aspect of our investigation,” said a senior official.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reza-pahlavi-urges-iranians-to-continue-protests-warns-tehran-may-cut-internet-1767871076570">Reza Pahlavi urges Iranians to continue protests, warns Tehran may cut internet</a>&nbsp;The drug inspector handling the case also described the operation as unprecedented.&nbsp;“In my entire career, I have never seen such a thing. I have never witnessed this, neither goat blood nor any other animal blood being collected in bags meant for human blood,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The raid team also found an autoclave machine, a laminar air flow unit, 110 filled blood bags, and about 60 empty blood bags.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-will-take-all-the-oil-stuck-in-venezuela-and-sell-it-in-market-at-market-rates-marco-rubio-1767806398832">‘US will take all the oil stuck in Venezuela and sell it in market, at market rates’: Marco Rubio</a>&nbsp;“The presence of the laminar air flow unit is highly concerning,” the drug inspector said.“Laminar air flow is used to transfer blood from one bag to another in a sterile environment to prevent contamination. The equipment’s presence clearly indicates blood processing was happening. These devices suggest the blood was being processed for specific needs.”&nbsp;The inspector said it could have been used for culture media preparation for bacterial growth, or for serum extraction for use in skin treatments, hair products, or vaccine production.&nbsp;“From about 500 millilitre of blood, roughly 200 millilitre of serum can be obtained. This serum is used in skin treatments, hair products, and even vaccine manufacturing,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-to-buy-greenland-not-seize-it-marco-rubio-tells-us-lawmakers-1767810822681">‘Trump wants to buy Greenland, not seize it,’ Marco Rubio tells US lawmakers</a><h2>Drug officials warn of deadly risks</h2>&nbsp;Officials warned that even accidental entry of animal blood into human medical supply chains could lead to fatal consequences.“This is a very serious and alarming case. If animal blood accidentally reaches any hospital, it could cause loss of life. Even mismatched human blood groups can be deadly. Injecting animal blood into humans is invariably fatal. That’s why blood is strictly regulated as a drug,” the drug inspector cautioned.&nbsp;“In my 15 years of service, I’ve never seen a case like this. I couldn’t have imagined goat blood being collected in this way,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/turkman-gate-violence-delhi-police-arrest-11-suspects-10-social-media-influencers-identified-after-stone-pelting-incident-5-cops-injured-1767882683854">Turkman Gate violence: Delhi Police arrest 11 suspects, 10 social media influencers identified after stone-pelting incident; 5 cops injured</a>&nbsp;The firm’s owner, officially registered as an import-export operator, is absconding. Officials say he paid butchers ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per blood bag, which he supplied to them.&nbsp;The investigation began after officials seized about 150 blood bags from a butcher in Keesara.&nbsp;A case has been registered at Keesara Police Station under Section 18(c) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.“A valid drug licence is needed even for possessing empty blood bags. The autoclave machine is also a regulated medical device. A drug licence is needed to possess or use it,” the inspector added.Officials have sealed the premises and sent blood samples for lab testing. Investigations into animal cruelty law violations are also underway.

The presence of the laminar air flow unit is highly concerning, the drug inspector said. Laminar air flow is used to transfer blood from one bag to another in a sterile environment to prevent contamination. It indicates that blood was being processed for specific needs, he added.

In a joint raid led by the Drug Control Administration (DCA) on an import-export firm in the Kachiguda area of Hyderabad city in Telangana, officials found around 1,000 litres of animal blood illegally collected from goats and sheep and packed in blood bags meant for storing human blood. The shocking recovery raised serious questions and suspicions that the blood was being misused. Besides the goat blood, some highly advanced machines used specifically in blood packaging were also found on the premises. The owner of the firm does not have the licence for the machine or blood. Central Drug Control officials, along with Hyderabad Police and state drug control authorities, had carried out the raid acting on secret information. Also Read: ‘It’s the energy greed of North’: Venezuela’s interim president slams US for drugs, democracy falsehoods Even senior officials were shocked when they found animal blood stored in blood bags meant for human use. Drug Control officials believe it could have been used for unauthorised clinical trials, experimental purposes, or to prepare culture media for lab tests. “We still don’t know why such a large quantity of animal blood was being collected and transported. This will be a key aspect of our investigation,” said a senior official. Also Read: Reza Pahlavi urges Iranians to continue protests, warns Tehran may cut internet The drug inspector handling the case also described the operation as unprecedented. “In my entire career, I have never seen such a thing. I have never witnessed this, neither goat blood nor any other animal blood being collected in bags meant for human blood,” he said. The raid team also found an autoclave machine, a laminar air flow unit, 110 filled blood bags, and about 60 empty blood bags. Also Read: ‘US will take all the oil stuck in Venezuela and sell it in market, at market rates’: Marco Rubio “The presence of the laminar air flow unit is highly concerning,” the drug inspector said. “Laminar air flow is used to transfer blood from one bag to another in a sterile environment to prevent contamination. The equipment’s presence clearly indicates blood processing was happening. These devices suggest the blood was being processed for specific needs.” The inspector said it could have been used for culture media preparation for bacterial growth, or for serum extraction for use in skin treatments, hair products, or vaccine production. “From about 500 millilitre of blood, roughly 200 millilitre of serum can be obtained. This serum is used in skin treatments, hair products, and even vaccine manufacturing,” he added. Also Read: ‘Trump wants to buy Greenland, not seize it,’ Marco Rubio tells US lawmakers Drug officials warn of deadly risks Officials warned that even accidental entry of animal blood into human medical supply chains could lead to fatal consequences. “This is a very serious and alarming case. If animal blood accidentally reaches any hospital, it could cause loss of life. Even mismatched human blood groups can be deadly. Injecting animal blood into humans is invariably fatal. That’s why blood is strictly regulated as a drug,” the drug inspector cautioned. “In my 15 years of service, I’ve never seen a case like this. I couldn’t have imagined goat blood being collected in this way,” he said. Also Read: Turkman Gate violence: Delhi Police arrest 11 suspects, 10 social media influencers identified after stone-pelting incident; 5 cops injured The firm’s owner, officially registered as an import-export operator, is absconding. Officials say he paid butchers ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per blood bag, which he supplied to them. The investigation began after officials seized about 150 blood bags from a butcher in Keesara. A case has been registered at Keesara Police Station under Section 18(c) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. “A valid drug licence is needed even for possessing empty blood bags. The autoclave machine is also a regulated medical device. A drug licence is needed to possess or use it,” the inspector added. Officials have sealed the premises and sent blood samples for lab testing. Investigations into animal cruelty law violations are also underway.

The presence of the laminar air flow unit is highly concerning, the drug inspector said. Laminar air flow is used to transfer blood from one bag to another in a sterile environment to prevent contamination. It indicates that blood was being processed for specific needs, he added.

Drug officials ‘shocked’ to find goat blood packed in blood bags for humans during raid in Hyderabad

On Wednesday (January 7), United States seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic. According to reports, three Indian nationals were among the 28 crew members onboard. The vessel, currently named Marinera, was intercepted by US forces after being tracked from the Caribbean Sea, according to Russia Today (RT), mentioning Russia’s transport ministry. The tanker had previously been operating under the name Bella 1 and was chartered by a private trader. Although initially reported as Russian-flagged, RT said the ship was operating under the flag of Guyana at the time of the seizure. The multinational crew reportedly included 17 Ukrainians, six Georgians, three Indians, two Russians, and other personnel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-the-energy-greed-of-north-venezuela-s-interim-president-slams-us-for-drugs-democracy-falsehoods-1767887211995">‘It’s the energy greed of North’: Venezuela’s interim president slams US for drugs, democracy falsehoods</a>&nbsp;US authorities said the tanker was seized due to its alleged links to Venezuela, which remains under strict US sanctions. According to news agency Reuters, the vessel had evaded a US maritime blockade of sanctioned tankers and ignored repeated attempts by the US Coast Guard to board it. Two US officials told Reuters that the operation involved both the Coast Guard and the US military, marking what appears to be the first seizure of a Russian-flagged vessel by US forces in recent years.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/earth-s-magnetic-shield-weakens-as-mysterious-weak-spot-grows-threatening-satellites-1767889260157/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/earth-s-magnetic-shield-weakens-as-mysterious-weak-spot-grows-threatening-satellites-1767889260157/embed</a>&nbsp;Russia’s transport ministry said it lost all contact with the tanker after US naval forces boarded it. Images aired by RT showed a helicopter hovering above the vessel, suggesting an active boarding operation. A senior Russian lawmaker, Andrei Klishas of the ruling United Russia party, condemned the action as “outright piracy,” according to the TASS news agency. The US later confirmed it had seized two oil tankers linked to Venezuela, Bella 1 (now Marinera) and M Sophia, a Panama-flagged vessel described as a “stateless, sanctioned dark fleet tanker.” US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said the Coast Guard conducted “meticulously coordinated” boardings of both vessels, adding that Bella 1 had attempted to evade authorities by changing its name and flag.

3 Indian nationals among crew in Russian-flagged oil tanker linked to Venezuela seized by US: Reports

On Wednesday (January 7), United States seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic. According to reports, three Indian nationals were among the 28 crew members onboard. The vessel, currently named Marinera, was intercepted by US forces after being tracked from the Caribbean Sea, according to Russia Today (RT), mentioning Russia’s transport ministry. The tanker had previously been operating under the name Bella 1 and was chartered by a private trader. Although initially reported as Russian-flagged, RT said the ship was operating under the flag of Guyana at the time of the seizure. The multinational crew reportedly included 17 Ukrainians, six Georgians, three Indians, two Russians, and other personnel. Also Read: ‘It’s the energy greed of North’: Venezuela’s interim president slams US for drugs, democracy falsehoods US authorities said the tanker was seized due to its alleged links to Venezuela, which remains under strict US sanctions. According to news agency Reuters, the vessel had evaded a US maritime blockade of sanctioned tankers and ignored repeated attempts by the US Coast Guard to board it. Two US officials told Reuters that the operation involved both the Coast Guard and the US military, marking what appears to be the first seizure of a Russian-flagged vessel by US forces in recent years. https://www.wionews.com/videos/earth-s-magnetic-shield-weakens-as-mysterious-weak-spot-grows-threatening-satellites-1767889260157/embed Russia’s transport ministry said it lost all contact with the tanker after US naval forces boarded it. Images aired by RT showed a helicopter hovering above the vessel, suggesting an active boarding operation. A senior Russian lawmaker, Andrei Klishas of the ruling United Russia party, condemned the action as “outright piracy,” according to the TASS news agency. The US later confirmed it had seized two oil tankers linked to Venezuela, Bella 1 (now Marinera) and M Sophia, a Panama-flagged vessel described as a “stateless, sanctioned dark fleet tanker.” US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said the Coast Guard conducted “meticulously coordinated” boardings of both vessels, adding that Bella 1 had attempted to evade authorities by changing its name and flag.

Three Indian nationals are among 28 crew members aboard the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera, which was seized by US forces over alleged links to Venezuela

After the anti-encroachment drive in Central Delhi's Turkman Gate turned violent with incidents of stone-pelting against the authorities, Delhi Police has stepped up their investigation. The police have arrested 11 suspects, and have identified 10 social media influencers for allegedly spreading false information about the demolition drive. The authorities said that the anti-encroachment drive near Turkman Gate was done on the basis of order from the court. The drive was happening near the Faiz-e-Elahi mosque in Delhi's Ramlila Maidan area.&nbsp;The total number of those arrested now stands at 11 which includes one juvenile. The six arrested individuals have been identified as Afaan, Adil, Shahnawaz, Hamza, Atharr and Ubed, all residents of the Turkman Gate locality. Earlier, five accused, Mohammad Arib, Kashif, Adnan, Mohammad Kaif and Sameer, were produced before Judicial Magistrate Pooja Suhag, who sent them to judicial custody for a period of 13 days.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-mamata-forcibly-took-away-evidence-says-ed-after-high-drama-during-raid-at-i-pac-moves-hc-1767879453343">‘CM Mamata forcibly took away evidence,’ says ED after high drama during raid at I-PAC; moves HC</a>&nbsp;Police officials have also identified 10 social media influencers allegedly involved for spreading false information about the demolition drive. A female influencer has been summoned for questioning after police monitoring teams flagged a video in which she reportedly claimed that a mosque in Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan area had been demolished. Initial checks found the claim to be false. Officials said the video added to panic surrounding a court-mandated anti-encroachment drive near the Faiz-e-Elahi Mosque.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/telangana-court-pauses-allotment-of-government-land-to-waqf-board-1767876657757/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/telangana-court-pauses-allotment-of-government-land-to-waqf-board-1767876657757/embed</a>&nbsp;Senior police officers said that false social media posts, videos, and audio messages circulated on WhatsApp groups played role in stirring up fear and unrest. These rumours allegedly led over 200 people to gather near Turkman Gate, following which stones and bottles were thrown at police officials and civic body workers. Five police officers, including the local station house officer, were injured.&nbsp;It all started late on Tuesday (January 6) night and continued into Wednesday (January 7) during the encroachment drive, which police said was done on the basis of a court order. By Wednesday morning, authorities had demolished a banquet hall, a private diagnostic centre, a room used by Hajj pilgrims, and parts of a road, footpath, and parking area around the mosque.&nbsp;Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh said a brief survey would soon be done in areas surrounding Jama Masjid to identify encroachments. He added that civic teams were carefully clearing debris at the Turkman Gate site and were looking to complete the process within the next two to three days. Meanwhile, local residents have refuted the police version of events, claiming that while protests were ongoing, police first used tear gas to disperse the crowd, and stone-pelting occurred in response to that.

Turkman Gate violence: Delhi Police arrest 11 suspects, 10 social media influencers identified after stone-pelting incident; 5 cops injured

After the anti-encroachment drive in Central Delhi's Turkman Gate turned violent with incidents of stone-pelting against the authorities, Delhi Police has stepped up their investigation. The police have arrested 11 suspects, and have identified 10 social media influencers for allegedly spreading false information about the demolition drive. The authorities said that the anti-encroachment drive near Turkman Gate was done on the basis of order from the court. The drive was happening near the Faiz-e-Elahi mosque in Delhi's Ramlila Maidan area. The total number of those arrested now stands at 11 which includes one juvenile. The six arrested individuals have been identified as Afaan, Adil, Shahnawaz, Hamza, Atharr and Ubed, all residents of the Turkman Gate locality. Earlier, five accused, Mohammad Arib, Kashif, Adnan, Mohammad Kaif and Sameer, were produced before Judicial Magistrate Pooja Suhag, who sent them to judicial custody for a period of 13 days. Also Read: ‘CM Mamata forcibly took away evidence,’ says ED after high drama during raid at I-PAC; moves HC Police officials have also identified 10 social media influencers allegedly involved for spreading false information about the demolition drive. A female influencer has been summoned for questioning after police monitoring teams flagged a video in which she reportedly claimed that a mosque in Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan area had been demolished. Initial checks found the claim to be false. Officials said the video added to panic surrounding a court-mandated anti-encroachment drive near the Faiz-e-Elahi Mosque. https://www.wionews.com/videos/telangana-court-pauses-allotment-of-government-land-to-waqf-board-1767876657757/embed Senior police officers said that false social media posts, videos, and audio messages circulated on WhatsApp groups played role in stirring up fear and unrest. These rumours allegedly led over 200 people to gather near Turkman Gate, following which stones and bottles were thrown at police officials and civic body workers. Five police officers, including the local station house officer, were injured. It all started late on Tuesday (January 6) night and continued into Wednesday (January 7) during the encroachment drive, which police said was done on the basis of a court order. By Wednesday morning, authorities had demolished a banquet hall, a private diagnostic centre, a room used by Hajj pilgrims, and parts of a road, footpath, and parking area around the mosque. Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh said a brief survey would soon be done in areas surrounding Jama Masjid to identify encroachments. He added that civic teams were carefully clearing debris at the Turkman Gate site and were looking to complete the process within the next two to three days. Meanwhile, local residents have refuted the police version of events, claiming that while protests were ongoing, police first used tear gas to disperse the crowd, and stone-pelting occurred in response to that.

After a court-ordered anti-encroachment drive near Turkman Gate turned violent, Delhi Police have arrested 11 suspects for allegedly spreading false information about the drive

There was high drama on display in Kolkata on Thursday when the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at two locations linked to the political consultancy group I-PAC (Indian Political Action Committee), which provides consultancy to the Trinamool Congress and also looks after its IT and media cell. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee rushed to the site, alleging that the raids were “politically motivated” and aimed to “steal data” relating to her party’s election strategy and candidate list for the 2026 elections. She even alleged that the searches were carried out at the behest of Home Minister Amit Shah.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reza-pahlavi-urges-iranians-to-continue-protests-warns-tehran-may-cut-internet-1767871076570">Reza Pahlavi urges Iranians to continue protests, warns Tehran may cut internet</a>&nbsp;Mamata stormed into the premises with a posse of officials and carried away some papers. The ED later accused CM Mamata Banerjee of taking away key ‘evidence’ and moved the Calcutta High Court. The ED has gone to the High Court, alleging that Banerjee, despite being a chief minister, is “obstructing investigation” and “defending those involved in coal smuggling and money laundering”. The court is likely to hear the matter on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kolkata | West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee at the office of the Indian Political Action Committee where the teams of Enforcement Directorate are conducting raids. <a href="https://t.co/kf5vlTRKC8">pic.twitter.com/kf5vlTRKC8</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2009167695019970977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;ED claimed in its petition that the raids were linked to the Bengal coal mining scam case, and accused Mamata of “obstructing” an official investigation. I-PAC, Mamata’s election strategist, meanwhile, has also filed a petition in the high court and sought a pause on the ED raids.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | Kolkata: As the ED raids I-PAC’s office, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee (<a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a>) says, “They loot our papers, our strategy, and even our voters, and then they lie. They loot West Bengal. What will be your future? You will be reduced to zero seats and lose… <a href="https://t.co/dEnon7DEc5">pic.twitter.com/dEnon7DEc5</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2009182832720240984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-pm-anthony-albanese-relents-after-pressure-announces-royal-commission-into-bondi-shooting-1767868190030">Australia PM Anthony Albanese relents after pressure, announces royal commission into Bondi shooting</a><h2>‘Forcibly removed physical documents and electronic evidence’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ED Headquarters Unit is conducting search action at 10 premises (6 in West Bengal and 4 in Delhi) under PMLA in connection with coal smuggling syndicate led by Anup Majee used to steal and illegally excavate coal from ECL leasehold areas of West Bengal. The search action was… <a href="https://t.co/ab7PCReiJo">pic.twitter.com/ab7PCReiJo</a>&mdash; ED (@dir_ed) <a href="https://twitter.com/dir_ed/status/2009200948338675755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The ED also issued a detailed statement on the drama that unfolded in Kolkata, and accused Mamata Banerjee and her aides of “forcibly removing” physical documents and electronic devices during the raids.The ED said the searches at the residence of I-PAC head Prateek Jain in Kolkata and the group’s office were peaceful till the chief minister arrived with “a large number of police officers”. Visuals from the site showed a livid Mamata exiting Jain’s house with a heavy green file.&nbsp;The agency said that senior cops, including the police chief and deputy commissioner of police, South Kolkata, also visited the premises to verify the identity of the ED officials.&nbsp;The ED further alleged that Mamata’s convoy then arrived at the I-PAC’s office in Salt Lake, from where she, her aides, and police officials “forcibly removed physical documents and electronic evidence”.The agency said it amounted to obstruction of an ongoing investigation under the PMLA.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-to-buy-greenland-not-seize-it-marco-rubio-tells-us-lawmakers-1767810822681">‘Trump wants to buy Greenland, not seize it,’ Marco Rubio tells US lawmakers</a>&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The ED said that the searches were not targeted at any political party and were part of a money laundering probe linked to the multi-crore coal scam case. It alleged that proceeds of crime amounting to Rs 10 crore were routed to I-PAC through hawala channels. It claimed that I-PAC was paid by the TMC for its consultancy work during the 2022 Goa assembly elections.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-us-demand-for-venezuela-oil-exclusively-calls-it-typical-bullying-1767794505500">China slams US demand for Venezuela oil exclusively, calls it ‘typical bullying’</a><h2>In which case did ED conduct raids?</h2>&nbsp;The case originates from a CBI FIR registered in Kolkata on November 27, 2020, against coal smuggling kingpin Anup Majhi and others. The ED filed a case under the PMLA on November 28.The agencies have alleged that Majhi was the kingpin of a coal smuggling syndicate that operated out of Eastern Coalfields Ltd (ECL) leasehold areas in the Asansol district.&nbsp;Investigators claimed that the syndicate illegally excavated and stole coal from ECL mines and sold it to factories and industrial units across Bankura, Bardhaman, Purulia and other districts of Bengal. A significant portion of this illegally mined coal was sold to companies linked to the Shakambhari Group, the ED said.ED sources said Anup Majhi and his aides paid money generated from the scam to I-PAC on behalf of the TMC to fund the party’s campaign in Goa.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-will-take-all-the-oil-stuck-in-venezuela-and-sell-it-in-market-at-market-rates-marco-rubio-1767806398832">‘US will take all the oil stuck in Venezuela and sell it in market, at market rates’: Marco Rubio</a><h2>Mamata stages sit-in, TMC announces mega protest</h2>&nbsp;Mamata also staged a sit-in protest at the I-PAC’s office before leaving around 5 pm. The Trinamool Congress party has announced a mega protest march on Friday.&nbsp;The family of Prateek Jain has also filed a police complaint against the ED, alleging theft of important documents during the searches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate has moved the Calcutta High Court, alleging that Mamata Banerjee, despite being a chief minister, is “obstructing investigation” and “defending those involved in coal smuggling and money laundering”. The court is likely to hear the matter on Friday.

There was high drama on display in Kolkata on Thursday when the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at two locations linked to the political consultancy group I-PAC (Indian Political Action Committee), which provides consultancy to the Trinamool Congress and also looks after its IT and media cell. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee rushed to the site, alleging that the raids were “politically motivated” and aimed to “steal data” relating to her party’s election strategy and candidate list for the 2026 elections. She even alleged that the searches were carried out at the behest of Home Minister Amit Shah. Also Read: Reza Pahlavi urges Iranians to continue protests, warns Tehran may cut internet Mamata stormed into the premises with a posse of officials and carried away some papers. The ED later accused CM Mamata Banerjee of taking away key ‘evidence’ and moved the Calcutta High Court. The ED has gone to the High Court, alleging that Banerjee, despite being a chief minister, is “obstructing investigation” and “defending those involved in coal smuggling and money laundering”. The court is likely to hear the matter on Friday.

The Enforcement Directorate has moved the Calcutta High Court, alleging that Mamata Banerjee, despite being a chief minister, is “obstructing investigation” and “defending those involved in coal smuggling and money laundering”. The court is likely to hear the matter on Friday.

‘CM Mamata forcibly took away evidence,’ says ED after high drama during raids at I-PAC; moves HC

Two Indian truck drivers were apprehended in Indiana for carrying 309 pounds of cocaine worth $7 million. They were arrested during a highway inspection where the sleeper berth of a semi-truck was found containing cocaine, which was "enough to kill more than 113,000 Americans," according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).&nbsp;The arrested individuals were identified as Gurpreet Singh, 25, and Jasveer Singh, 30, who had entered the United States in 2017 and 2023, respectively. After the discovery of cocaine in the vehicle, a sniffer dog unit was alerted by the officers. During the inspection, police found "numerous cardboard boxes covered by a blanket in the sleeper berth of the truck," according to court records accessed by Fox59.&nbsp;Both drivers were taken into custody and lodged at the Putnam County Jail. Indiana State Police stated that they face felony charges related to narcotics trafficking, and deportation holds have been issued against them, according to a Fox 32 Chicago report. However, both men claimed they did not know the truck’s contents, saying their employer had directed them to deliver the vehicle to an Indian restaurant in Richmond and wait for a consignment.<h3>Both drivers entered the US illegally</h3>Police said Gurpreet Singh illegally entered the US from Arizona on March 11, 2023, while Jasveer Singh entered unlawfully from California on March 21, 2017. Jasveer was also arrested last month in San Bernardino, California, on charges of receiving stolen property.&nbsp;"Thanks to Gavin Newsom's reckless policies, these two criminal illegal aliens were granted commercial drivers' licences by the state of California and were arrested for trafficking a whopping 300 pounds of cocaine inside a semi-truck," the DHS assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin said.&nbsp;She added, "Gavin Newsom and his fellow sanctuary politicians even refused to honour an arrest detainer on one of these criminal illegal aliens in December. Sanctuary policies put American lives at risk. ICE law enforcement lodged arrest detainers to ensure these drug traffickers are not allowed back into American communities."

After the discovery of cocaine in the vehicle, a sniffer dog unit was alerted by the officers. During the inspection, police found “numerous cardboard boxes covered by a blanket in the sleeper berth of the truck.”

Two Indian truck drivers were apprehended in Indiana for carrying 309 pounds of cocaine worth $7 million. They were arrested during a highway inspection where the sleeper berth of a semi-truck was found containing cocaine, which was "enough to kill more than 113,000 Americans," according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The arrested individuals were identified as Gurpreet Singh, 25, and Jasveer Singh, 30, who had entered the United States in 2017 and 2023, respectively. After the discovery of cocaine in the vehicle, a sniffer dog unit was alerted by the officers. During the inspection, police found "numerous cardboard boxes covered by a blanket in the sleeper berth of the truck," according to court records accessed by Fox59. Both drivers were taken into custody and lodged at the Putnam County Jail. Indiana State Police stated that they face felony charges related to narcotics trafficking, and deportation holds have been issued against them, according to a Fox 32 Chicago report. However, both men claimed they did not know the truck’s contents, saying their employer had directed them to deliver the vehicle to an Indian restaurant in Richmond and wait for a consignment. Both drivers entered the US illegally Police said Gurpreet Singh illegally entered the US from Arizona on March 11, 2023, while Jasveer Singh entered unlawfully from California on March 21, 2017. Jasveer was also arrested last month in San Bernardino, California, on charges of receiving stolen property. "Thanks to Gavin Newsom's reckless policies, these two criminal illegal aliens were granted commercial drivers' licences by the state of California and were arrested for trafficking a whopping 300 pounds of cocaine inside a semi-truck," the DHS assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin said. She added, "Gavin Newsom and his fellow sanctuary politicians even refused to honour an arrest detainer on one of these criminal illegal aliens in December. Sanctuary policies put American lives at risk. ICE law enforcement lodged arrest detainers to ensure these drug traffickers are not allowed back into American communities."

After the discovery of cocaine in the vehicle, a sniffer dog unit was alerted by the officers. During the inspection, police found “numerous cardboard boxes covered by a blanket in the sleeper berth of the truck.”

Two Indian truck drivers arrested in US' Indiana for carrying cocaine 'enough to kill over 113,000 Americans'

On NRI Day 2026, here are eight famous NRIs who brought global recognition to India across business, science, politics and culture.

NRI Day 2026: Top 8 famous NRIs who made India proud globally

On Wednesday (January 7), Bangladesh police arrested another suspect for the lynching of Hindu garment worker Dipu Chandra Das in Bhaluka, Mymensingh. The accused, who has been identified as Mohammad Yasin Arafat, was arrested from Dhaka's Sarulia area which comes under Demra Police Station, Bangladesh's' local media publication The Daily Star reported citing Mymensingh Additional Superintendent of Police (Administration) Abdullah Al Mamun. The accused, Mohammad Yasin Arafat is 25-years-old. The police official said that he played a ‘leading role’ in the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, an incident which sent shockwaves throughout India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-german-chancellor-to-inaugurate-international-kite-festival-2026-as-india-germany-ties-deepen-1767874590420">PM Modi, German Chancellor to inaugurate International Kite Festival 2026 as India-Germany ties deepen</a>&nbsp;Mamun said that the accused was helping as an imam at Sheikhbari Mosque in Kashar area and was also working as a teacher at Madina Tahfizul Quran Madrasa, as per reports. He further that Yasin went underground after the killing and was at large for almost two weeks. "Yasin played a leading role in the murder alongside others. After the killing, he went into hiding and remained on the run for 12 days at different madrasas in Sarulia. He also joined a madrasa named Suffa as a teacher," the report quoted Mamun as saying, mentioning findings of primary investigation. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-violence-minorities-continue-to-face-mob-attacks-in-bangladesh-1767802874806/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-violence-minorities-continue-to-face-mob-attacks-in-bangladesh-1767802874806/embed</a>&nbsp;Yasin's involvement in Dipu's murder was also confirmed by statements of other suspects who have been arrested by the police, accounts from the eyewitness, initial investigation and also descriptions of what transpired at the factory gate when the murder took place, as per the Bangladesh police. Dhaka Metropolitan Police helped in arrest of Yasin and efforts are on to arrest other involved in the case, the report further added. As per additional superintendent of police, 21 people have been arrested in the case so far and 18 have been sent to jail. Out of these, 9 have given their confessions. Meanwhile, three key witnesses have also given statements about the incident and what happened.&nbsp;On 18 December, 2025, Dipu Chandra Das was lynched by a mob after which, his body was set on fire over alleged profanity in Bangladesh' Mymensingh region.

Bangladesh police arrest key suspect from Dhaka in lynching of Dipu Chandra Das

On Wednesday (January 7), Bangladesh police arrested another suspect for the lynching of Hindu garment worker Dipu Chandra Das in Bhaluka, Mymensingh. The accused, who has been identified as Mohammad Yasin Arafat, was arrested from Dhaka's Sarulia area which comes under Demra Police Station, Bangladesh's' local media publication The Daily Star reported citing Mymensingh Additional Superintendent of Police (Administration) Abdullah Al Mamun. The accused, Mohammad Yasin Arafat is 25-years-old. The police official said that he played a ‘leading role’ in the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, an incident which sent shockwaves throughout India. Also Read: PM Modi, German Chancellor to inaugurate International Kite Festival 2026 as India-Germany ties deepen Mamun said that the accused was helping as an imam at Sheikhbari Mosque in Kashar area and was also working as a teacher at Madina Tahfizul Quran Madrasa, as per reports. He further that Yasin went underground after the killing and was at large for almost two weeks. "Yasin played a leading role in the murder alongside others. After the killing, he went into hiding and remained on the run for 12 days at different madrasas in Sarulia. He also joined a madrasa named Suffa as a teacher," the report quoted Mamun as saying, mentioning findings of primary investigation. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-violence-minorities-continue-to-face-mob-attacks-in-bangladesh-1767802874806/embed Yasin's involvement in Dipu's murder was also confirmed by statements of other suspects who have been arrested by the police, accounts from the eyewitness, initial investigation and also descriptions of what transpired at the factory gate when the murder took place, as per the Bangladesh police. Dhaka Metropolitan Police helped in arrest of Yasin and efforts are on to arrest other involved in the case, the report further added. As per additional superintendent of police, 21 people have been arrested in the case so far and 18 have been sent to jail. Out of these, 9 have given their confessions. Meanwhile, three key witnesses have also given statements about the incident and what happened. On 18 December, 2025, Dipu Chandra Das was lynched by a mob after which, his body was set on fire over alleged profanity in Bangladesh' Mymensingh region.

Bangladesh police have now arrested Mohammad Yasin Arafat for a ‘leading role’ in lynching of the Hindu worker Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will jointly inaugurate the International Kite Festival 2026 in Ahmedabad, adding a strong diplomatic and cultural dimension to one of Gujarat’s most iconic celebrations.&nbsp;&nbsp;The event will be held at the Sabarmati Riverfront on January 12. Indian skies across states come alive with colourful kites on the festival of Uttarayan.&nbsp;The presence of the German Chancellor at the kite festival marks a significant moment in India-Germany relations, blending cultural exchange with high-level diplomacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officials say the joint appearance reflects the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, while also showcasing India’s rich cultural traditions to the global community.&nbsp;Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to be in Gujarat for a three-day visit from January 10 to 12, during which he will take part in multiple religious, cultural and development-related programmes.&nbsp;His itinerary includes a visit to the Somnath Temple, interactions at public events in Rajkot, and the inauguration of key infrastructure projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;The International Kite Festival will be the highlight of the final day of his visit. Chancellor Merz, who is on his first official visit to India, will also join the Prime Minister at the Sabarmati Ashram, a site closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi and India’s freedom struggle.&nbsp;&nbsp;The visit is being seen as one underlining shared democratic values and a commitment to peace and cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp;The International Kite Festival, held annually in Gujarat, attracts thousands of visitors and kite flyers from across India and abroad.&nbsp;&nbsp;This year’s edition is expected to be particularly special, with participants from several countries showcasing unique kite designs and performances.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officials said elaborate security arrangements and cultural programmes have been planned to ensure smooth conduct of the high-profile event.&nbsp;Apart from cultural engagements, Modi and Merz are expected to hold discussions on strengthening bilateral ties in areas such as trade, clean energy, technology, defence cooperation and skill development.&nbsp;&nbsp;The talks are likely to set the tone for future high-level engagements between the two governments.&nbsp;With diplomacy taking flight alongside thousands of kites, the 2026 International Kite Festival is set to become not just a celebration of tradition, but also a platform for international friendship and cooperation, drawing global attention to Ahmedabad and Gujarat.

The presence of the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the International Kite Festival 2026 in Ahmedabad will mark a significant moment in India-Germany relations, blending cultural exchange with high-level diplomacy.

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will jointly inaugurate the International Kite Festival 2026 in Ahmedabad, adding a strong diplomatic and cultural dimension to one of Gujarat’s most iconic celebrations. The event will be held at the Sabarmati Riverfront on January 12. Indian skies across states come alive with colourful kites on the festival of Uttarayan. The presence of the German Chancellor at the kite festival marks a significant moment in India-Germany relations, blending cultural exchange with high-level diplomacy. Officials say the joint appearance reflects the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, while also showcasing India’s rich cultural traditions to the global community. Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to be in Gujarat for a three-day visit from January 10 to 12, during which he will take part in multiple religious, cultural and development-related programmes. His itinerary includes a visit to the Somnath Temple, interactions at public events in Rajkot, and the inauguration of key infrastructure projects. The International Kite Festival will be the highlight of the final day of his visit. Chancellor Merz, who is on his first official visit to India, will also join the Prime Minister at the Sabarmati Ashram, a site closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi and India’s freedom struggle. The visit is being seen as one underlining shared democratic values and a commitment to peace and cooperation between the two countries. The International Kite Festival, held annually in Gujarat, attracts thousands of visitors and kite flyers from across India and abroad. This year’s edition is expected to be particularly special, with participants from several countries showcasing unique kite designs and performances. Officials said elaborate security arrangements and cultural programmes have been planned to ensure smooth conduct of the high-profile event. Apart from cultural engagements, Modi and Merz are expected to hold discussions on strengthening bilateral ties in areas such as trade, clean energy, technology, defence cooperation and skill development. The talks are likely to set the tone for future high-level engagements between the two governments. With diplomacy taking flight alongside thousands of kites, the 2026 International Kite Festival is set to become not just a celebration of tradition, but also a platform for international friendship and cooperation, drawing global attention to Ahmedabad and Gujarat.

The presence of the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the International Kite Festival 2026 in Ahmedabad will mark a significant moment in India-Germany relations, blending cultural exchange with high-level diplomacy.

PM Modi, German Chancellor to inaugurate International Kite Festival 2026 as India-Germany ties deepen

Modern warfare is going through a major transformation, shifting away from big tank battles and heavy artillery fire toward a future driven by computers, software, and autonomous drones. In this fast-changing environment, the Indian Army is not just watching the change—it is taking the lead.&nbsp;Through a massive strategic initiative known as Project Shaktibaan, the Indian Army is raising 15 to 20 specialised drone regiments that promise to transform the nation's defence capabilities. Under the leadership of General Upendra Dwivedi, these units signify a clear departure from traditional "brute force" tactics, ushering in an era where digital precision and smart machines do the heavy lifting, ensuring India remains secure against 21st-century threats.<h3>From Artillery Shells to Flying Machines</h3>For many Indians, the idea of a "regiment" usually brings to mind rows of soldiers or heavy cannons. A Shaktibaan regiment, however, is an entirely different beast.&nbsp;Operating under the Regiment of Artillery, these units are essentially high-tech drone formations, where flying machines replace traditional shells. This evolution builds on an earlier system known as the Divyastra Battery—a digital upgrade for traditional artillery that used drones and computers to calculate distances and aim guns with precision. While Divyastra proved drones could act as powerful assistants, Shaktibaan elevates them to the main strike role.&nbsp;This transition marks a major leap in safety and efficiency, allowing the military to engage targets from 5 km to nearly 500 km without putting a single soldier in direct danger. In military terms, it is like upgrading from a bicycle to a supersonic jet—faster, smarter, and far more precise. By removing soldiers from the point of contact, India protects its most valuable asset while expanding its strike reach exponentially.&nbsp;Recent global conflicts have shown how even the most expensive tanks and air defence systems can be neutralised by cheap, intelligent drones. India has absorbed these lessons, ensuring its defence posture keeps pace with modern combat realities.<h3>The Three Pillars of Shaktibaan</h3>The tactical heart of Shaktibaan lies in its diverse arsenal of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), each designed for specific battlefield roles.<h3>Swarm Drones: The Unstoppable Force</h3>First among them are swarm drones, which operate on collective intelligence. Much like a flock of birds, dozens of drones communicate in real time, moving as a single, coordinated unit. Even if several drones are shot down, the rest continue the mission—overwhelming enemy defences through numbers and coordination.&nbsp;These swarms can carry out simultaneous surveillance and attack missions, offering battlefield visibility and precision that represent a new benchmark in modern warfare. More importantly, their distributed intelligence makes them nearly impossible to stop with traditional air defences, taking down one or even ten drones barely affects the swarm's effectiveness.<h3>Loitering Munitions: The Patient Hunter</h3>Complementing the swarms are loitering munitions, commonly known as kamikaze or suicide drones. Unlike traditional missiles fired at fixed coordinates, loitering munitions can hover over an area for hours, sending live video feeds until a high-value target reveals itself.&nbsp;Once identified, the drone dives in with surgical accuracy. This capability allows the Army to conduct highly precise strikes, minimising collateral damage and protecting civilian lives and infrastructure. The patience of these weapons—waiting for the perfect moment rather than striking blindly—represents a fundamental shift in how precision warfare operates.<h3>Long-Range Drones: Bridging the Gap</h3>Shaktibaan also introduces long-range drones that bridge a critical gap in India's strike capability. Earlier, commanders had to choose between short-range systems like Pinaka and strategic missiles such as BrahMos—essentially deciding between limited reach or potential escalation.&nbsp;Long-range drones provide a middle path—capable of deep surveillance and targeted strikes without escalating every engagement into a missile exchange. They give commanders flexibility, allowing pressure to be applied without triggering full-scale conflict. This graduated response capability is invaluable in an era where conflicts often simmer below the threshold of all-out war.<h3>Self-Reliance Takes Flight</h3>The success of Project Shaktibaan is also a major win for India's self-reliance in defence.&nbsp;Instead of depending on foreign suppliers, the Indian Army is working with domestic players such as Solar Defence, Adani Defence, and RapheM. With an investment of about ₹2,000 crore for the initial procurement of loitering munitions and launch systems, the Make in India vision is becoming an operational reality.&nbsp;This approach ensures India can scale, modify, and sustain its drone capabilities without being dependent on foreign governments during crises. It also keeps critical defence technology and manufacturing expertise within the country, building a robust industrial base for future innovations.<h3>The Human Element</h3>Supporting this technological leap is an equally massive human transformation.&nbsp;The Army is training over 100,000 drone operators, ensuring the human brain behind the machine is as sharp as the technology itself. New specialised units—such as Ashmi platoons for close infantry support and Bhairav commandos, elite forces designed for drone-centric operations—are being integrated into the Army's core structure.&nbsp;This holistic transformation ensures that from the high Himalayas to desert frontiers, the Indian Army remains agile, technology-driven, and combat-ready.<h3>The Road Ahead</h3>With the first Shaktibaan regiments already operational and deliveries of new systems expected within the next two years, India's drone transformation is moving from blueprint to battlefield reality. The remaining regiments will be raised in phases, creating a force structure designed specifically for 21st-century conflicts.&nbsp;With Project Shaktibaan, India is not merely adapting to the future of warfare—it is actively shaping it, building a smarter, safer, and stronger nation for its people. As drone technology continues to evolve and adversaries develop their own unmanned capabilities, Shaktibaan ensures India will meet these challenges not as a follower, but as a leader.

Under the leadership of General Upendra Dwivedi, these units signify a clear departure from traditional "brute force" tactics, ushering in an era where digital precision and smart machines do the heavy lifting, ensuring India remains secure against 21st-century threats.

Modern warfare is going through a major transformation, shifting away from big tank battles and heavy artillery fire toward a future driven by computers, software, and autonomous drones. In this fast-changing environment, the Indian Army is not just watching the change—it is taking the lead. Through a massive strategic initiative known as Project Shaktibaan, the Indian Army is raising 15 to 20 specialised drone regiments that promise to transform the nation's defence capabilities. Under the leadership of General Upendra Dwivedi, these units signify a clear departure from traditional "brute force" tactics, ushering in an era where digital precision and smart machines do the heavy lifting, ensuring India remains secure against 21st-century threats. From Artillery Shells to Flying Machines For many Indians, the idea of a "regiment" usually brings to mind rows of soldiers or heavy cannons. A Shaktibaan regiment, however, is an entirely different beast. Operating under the Regiment of Artillery, these units are essentially high-tech drone formations, where flying machines replace traditional shells. This evolution builds on an earlier system known as the Divyastra Battery—a digital upgrade for traditional artillery that used drones and computers to calculate distances and aim guns with precision. While Divyastra proved drones could act as powerful assistants, Shaktibaan elevates them to the main strike role. This transition marks a major leap in safety and efficiency, allowing the military to engage targets from 5 km to nearly 500 km without putting a single soldier in direct danger. In military terms, it is like upgrading from a bicycle to a supersonic jet—faster, smarter, and far more precise. By removing soldiers from the point of contact, India protects its most valuable asset while expanding its strike reach exponentially. Recent global conflicts have shown how even the most expensive tanks and air defence systems can be neutralised by cheap, intelligent drones. India has absorbed these lessons, ensuring its defence posture keeps pace with modern combat realities. The Three Pillars of Shaktibaan The tactical heart of Shaktibaan lies in its diverse arsenal of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), each designed for specific battlefield roles. Swarm Drones: The Unstoppable Force First among them are swarm drones, which operate on collective intelligence. Much like a flock of birds, dozens of drones communicate in real time, moving as a single, coordinated unit. Even if several drones are shot down, the rest continue the mission—overwhelming enemy defences through numbers and coordination. These swarms can carry out simultaneous surveillance and attack missions, offering battlefield visibility and precision that represent a new benchmark in modern warfare. More importantly, their distributed intelligence makes them nearly impossible to stop with traditional air defences, taking down one or even ten drones barely affects the swarm's effectiveness. Loitering Munitions: The Patient Hunter Complementing the swarms are loitering munitions, commonly known as kamikaze or suicide drones. Unlike traditional missiles fired at fixed coordinates, loitering munitions can hover over an area for hours, sending live video feeds until a high-value target reveals itself. Once identified, the drone dives in with surgical accuracy. This capability allows the Army to conduct highly precise strikes, minimising collateral damage and protecting civilian lives and infrastructure. The patience of these weapons—waiting for the perfect moment rather than striking blindly—represents a fundamental shift in how precision warfare operates. Long-Range Drones: Bridging the Gap Shaktibaan also introduces long-range drones that bridge a critical gap in India's strike capability. Earlier, commanders had to choose between short-range systems like Pinaka and strategic missiles such as BrahMos—essentially deciding between limited reach or potential escalation. Long-range drones provide a middle path—capable of deep surveillance and targeted strikes without escalating every engagement into a missile exchange. They give commanders flexibility, allowing pressure to be applied without triggering full-scale conflict. This graduated response capability is invaluable in an era where conflicts often simmer below the threshold of all-out war. Self-Reliance Takes Flight The success of Project Shaktibaan is also a major win for India's self-reliance in defence. Instead of depending on foreign suppliers, the Indian Army is working with domestic players such as Solar Defence, Adani Defence, and RapheM. With an investment of about ₹2,000 crore for the initial procurement of loitering munitions and launch systems, the Make in India vision is becoming an operational reality. This approach ensures India can scale, modify, and sustain its drone capabilities without being dependent on foreign governments during crises. It also keeps critical defence technology and manufacturing expertise within the country, building a robust industrial base for future innovations. The Human Element Supporting this technological leap is an equally massive human transformation. The Army is training over 100,000 drone operators, ensuring the human brain behind the machine is as sharp as the technology itself. New specialised units—such as Ashmi platoons for close infantry support and Bhairav commandos, elite forces designed for drone-centric operations—are being integrated into the Army's core structure. This holistic transformation ensures that from the high Himalayas to desert frontiers, the Indian Army remains agile, technology-driven, and combat-ready. The Road Ahead With the first Shaktibaan regiments already operational and deliveries of new systems expected within the next two years, India's drone transformation is moving from blueprint to battlefield reality. The remaining regiments will be raised in phases, creating a force structure designed specifically for 21st-century conflicts. With Project Shaktibaan, India is not merely adapting to the future of warfare—it is actively shaping it, building a smarter, safer, and stronger nation for its people. As drone technology continues to evolve and adversaries develop their own unmanned capabilities, Shaktibaan ensures India will meet these challenges not as a follower, but as a leader.

Under the leadership of General Upendra Dwivedi, these units signify a clear departure from traditional "brute force" tactics, ushering in an era where digital precision and smart machines do the heavy lifting, ensuring India remains secure against 21st-century threats.

Project Shaktibaan: India's bold leap into drone-centric military future

The Enforcement Directorate has intensified its probe into a large-scale fake government job scam, conducting coordinated search operations at around 15 locations across several states. 

Raids were carried out in Muzaffarpur and Motihari in Bihar; Kolkata in West Bengal; Ernakulam, Pandalam, Adoor, and Kodur in Kerala; Chennai in Tamil Nadu; Rajkot in Gujarat; and Gorakhpur, Prayagraj, and Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh.

According to officials, the scam first came to light under the guise of Indian Railways recruitment. 

However, as investigations progressed, it became apparent that the fraudulent operation extended far beyond the Railways, involving more than 40 government organisations and departments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

These included the Forest Department, Indian Post, Income Tax Department, various High Courts, the Public Works Department, the Bihar government, Delhi Development Authority, and the Rajasthan Secretariat, among others.

The racket was reportedly orchestrated by an organised gang that used sophisticated methods to deceive unsuspecting candidates.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The accused created fake email accounts designed to impersonate official government domains, issuing fraudulent appointment letters to applicants. 

To lend credibility to the scam, some recruits were even paid salaries for two to three months, placing them in positions across the Railways and other departments. 

This tactic reportedly helped the gang build trust and attract more victims.

Officials described the scam as highly structured, with coordinated operations across multiple states, indicating a well-planned network rather than isolated incidents. 

Investigators are now scrutinising the gangâ€™s communications, financial transactions, and the chain of recruitment, while authorities continue to monitor for other potential victims. 

The case has raised concerns about the vulnerability of government recruitment processes to organised fraud, prompting agencies to review safeguards and verification protocols.&nbsp;

According to officials, the scam first came to light under the guise of Indian Railways recruitment. 

However, as investigations progressed, it became apparent that the fraudulent operation extended far beyond the Railways, involving more than 40 government organisations and departments. 

The Enforcement Directorate has intensified its probe into a large-scale fake government job scam, conducting coordinated search operations at around 15 locations across several states. Raids were carried out in Muzaffarpur and Motihari in Bihar; Kolkata in West Bengal; Ernakulam, Pandalam, Adoor, and Kodur in Kerala; Chennai in Tamil Nadu; Rajkot in Gujarat; and Gorakhpur, Prayagraj, and Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh. According to officials, the scam first came to light under the guise of Indian Railways recruitment. However, as investigations progressed, it became apparent that the fraudulent operation extended far beyond the Railways, involving more than 40 government organisations and departments. These included the Forest Department, Indian Post, Income Tax Department, various High Courts, the Public Works Department, the Bihar government, Delhi Development Authority, and the Rajasthan Secretariat, among others. The racket was reportedly orchestrated by an organised gang that used sophisticated methods to deceive unsuspecting candidates. The accused created fake email accounts designed to impersonate official government domains, issuing fraudulent appointment letters to applicants. To lend credibility to the scam, some recruits were even paid salaries for two to three months, placing them in positions across the Railways and other departments. This tactic reportedly helped the gang build trust and attract more victims. Officials described the scam as highly structured, with coordinated operations across multiple states, indicating a well-planned network rather than isolated incidents. Investigators are now scrutinising the gangâ€™s communications, financial transactions, and the chain of recruitment, while authorities continue to monitor for other potential victims. The case has raised concerns about the vulnerability of government recruitment processes to organised fraud, prompting agencies to review safeguards and verification protocols.

According to officials, the scam first came to light under the guise of Indian Railways recruitment. However, as investigations progressed, it became apparent that the fraudulent operation extended far beyond the Railways, involving more than 40 government organisations and departments.&nbsp;

ED cracks down on massive fake recruitment scam across 40+ government departments

AI has made many steps in the hiring process much easier for professionals and hirers alike. Quicker creation of CVs and JDs, faster movement on screening and shortlists, and polished communications exchanged between all parties involved. The real challenge now is signal, which means identifying who can do the work, adapt fast, and grow as roles evolve.&nbsp;In a new series, ‘Beyond AI, CVs &amp; JDs’ by Zee Media and LinkedIn, senior industry leaders Ruchee Anand, Head, LinkedIn Talent &amp; Learning Solutions, India, and Sanjeev Jain, Chief Operating Officer, Wipro, unpack why the next shift isn’t faster hiring, but smarter talent strategy where automation creates capacity, connected skills expand visibility, and internal mobility that actually moves.&nbsp;<h2>AI as a multiplier of access and opportunity</h2>&nbsp;“AI has truly democratised talent, learning and opportunities,” Jain said, highlighting how advanced tools, insights and learning systems that were once selectively available, are now accessible across organisations.&nbsp;More access also means more volume. As applications and data increase, talent leaders need stronger skill signals and more intentional assessment to separate potential from noise.&nbsp;In tandem, Anand underscored that this shift introduces a new level of intentionality in the workplace. As AI reduces the burden of repetitive tasks, teams can focus more sharply on strategic collaboration, problem-solving, and higher-value work. For talent leaders, this means focusing on skills-first hiring and development, so their teams can interoperate on the basis of their capabilities, not just pedigree or hierarchy.&nbsp;Watch the first episode of Beyond AI, CVs &amp; JDs here:

&nbsp;<h2>From automation to amplification</h2>&nbsp;Talking from an organisational perspective, both leaders emphasised on the shifting perception of AI beyond a mere time-saving tool. Leaders are seeking ways to use AI to accelerate decision-making, improve operational resilience, and unlock higher levels of creativity across teams. LinkedIn research reveals that optimising recruitment technology/AI tools is a priority for over half (52%) of recruiters in India.&nbsp;At Wipro, as Jain explained, an AI-enabled assistant responds to more than a lakh employee queries each week, significantly enhancing efficiency while allowing teams to redirect capacity toward innovation and strategic collaboration. In practice, this shift means recruiters and TAs can spend more time coaching hiring managers, shaping sharper job scopes, and planning talent pipelines with clear business intent – turning execution into higher value and impact.<h2>Internal mobility should be a core talent strategy</h2>&nbsp;A significant shift that AI has silently brought across organisations, as the experts point out, is the prioritisation of internal mobility as a structured strategy rather than an optional practice. Anand said, “It’s not just about buying talent but building talent.” AI-driven role matching, skills mapping and personalised learning pathways now enable companies to identify and elevate internal talent more effectively, before turning to external hiring.<h2>Adaptability takes precedence for professionals</h2>&nbsp;For professionals, career progression is becoming more fluid than linear. Growth is being shaped by skills, learning agility, and the ability to adapt to new responsibilities. LinkedIn data shows that 78% or recruiters in India today prioritise practical, transferable skills over degrees.&nbsp;Jain emphasised that skills like critical thinking and reasoning that help professionals ask the right questions will be essential as AI becomes more embedded in work. Anand reinforced the importance of learnability for professional success, emphasising it as a critical skill that helps teams hire for roles that don’t fully exist yet. “Having the humility to know that I don’t know enough, and how can I keep learning. These skills are often underestimated but are very powerful,” she said.&nbsp;As AI continues to redefine how we work, talent strategies and in-demand skills are rapidly evolving. Professionals and organisations that embrace these changes early and move forward with an adaptable mindset will be best positioned to lead in an AI-powered economy.&nbsp;(Disclaimer:&nbsp;This article is from the Brand Desk. User discretion is advised.)

For talent leaders, this means focusing on skills-first hiring and development, so their teams can interoperate on the basis of their capabilities, not just pedigree or hierarchy.

AI has made many steps in the hiring process much easier for professionals and hirers alike. Quicker creation of CVs and JDs, faster movement on screening and shortlists, and polished communications exchanged between all parties involved. The real challenge now is signal, which means identifying who can do the work, adapt fast, and grow as roles evolve. In a new series, ‘Beyond AI, CVs & JDs’ by Zee Media and LinkedIn, senior industry leaders Ruchee Anand, Head, LinkedIn Talent & Learning Solutions, India, and Sanjeev Jain, Chief Operating Officer, Wipro, unpack why the next shift isn’t faster hiring, but smarter talent strategy where automation creates capacity, connected skills expand visibility, and internal mobility that actually moves. AI as a multiplier of access and opportunity “AI has truly democratised talent, learning and opportunities,” Jain said, highlighting how advanced tools, insights and learning systems that were once selectively available, are now accessible across organisations. More access also means more volume. As applications and data increase, talent leaders need stronger skill signals and more intentional assessment to separate potential from noise. In tandem, Anand underscored that this shift introduces a new level of intentionality in the workplace. As AI reduces the burden of repetitive tasks, teams can focus more sharply on strategic collaboration, problem-solving, and higher-value work. For talent leaders, this means focusing on skills-first hiring and development, so their teams can interoperate on the basis of their capabilities, not just pedigree or hierarchy. Watch the first episode of Beyond AI, CVs & JDs here:

For talent leaders, this means focusing on skills-first hiring and development, so their teams can interoperate on the basis of their capabilities, not just pedigree or hierarchy.

AI made CVs faster and signals harder. Here’s what talent leaders should do next

After a video of an Israeli soldier went viral online, showing him firing toward Gaza, a local court awarded him 20 days in prison. However, the army is yet to make a statement regarding this. The report by Kan public broadcaster says the IDF is weighing whether the IDF soldier will be able to return to combat afterward.&nbsp;After the video came to light the IDF said that the video showed “a severe incident that does not accord with the values of the IDF and with the standards expected of combat soldiers and their commanders".<h2>About the video</h2>In the viral clip, that was first uploaded by the soldier himself on social media shows him firing toward Gaza “in honour of the new year”.&nbsp;The video was reportedly filmed on Dec 26 but went viral after being shared frequently by pro-Palestinian activists. It later went on to accumulate millions of views.&nbsp;In the video the soldier can be seen standing on a mount of sand during night holding a gun without any helmet or ballistic vest. A few seconds later be begins to fire randomly towards Gaza

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The soldier documented in the video acted contrary to procedures by firing in an unprofessional manner and not complying with orders. As a result, the soldier was sentenced to 20 days in prison. <a href="https://t.co/JjIFh6NBX8">https://t.co/JjIFh6NBX8</a>&mdash; LTC Nadav Shoshani (@LTC_Shoshani) <a href="https://twitter.com/LTC_Shoshani/status/2008972949379064084?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the viral clip, that was first uploaded by the soldier himself on social media shows him firing toward Gaza “in honour of the new year”.

After a video of an Israeli soldier went viral online, showing him firing toward Gaza, a local court awarded him 20 days in prison. However, the army is yet to make a statement regarding this. The report by Kan public broadcaster says the IDF is weighing whether the IDF soldier will be able to return to combat afterward. After the video came to light the IDF said that the video showed “a severe incident that does not accord with the values of the IDF and with the standards expected of combat soldiers and their commanders". About the video In the viral clip, that was first uploaded by the soldier himself on social media shows him firing toward Gaza “in honour of the new year”. The video was reportedly filmed on Dec 26 but went viral after being shared frequently by pro-Palestinian activists. It later went on to accumulate millions of views. In the video the soldier can be seen standing on a mount of sand during night holding a gun without any helmet or ballistic vest. A few seconds later be begins to fire randomly towards Gaza

In the viral clip, that was first uploaded by the soldier himself on social media shows him firing toward Gaza “in honour of the new year”.

WATCH: Israeli soldier fires several rounds towards Gaza in 'New Years celebration', gets 20 days in jail

Bihar has issued a direction that it will not allow people with veils or masks from entering the Jewellery shop. This comes after the direction of the Jewellery Association, All India Jewellers and Gold Federation (AIJGF) &nbsp;in Bihar, citing security concerns amid rising prices of gold and other precious metals. This includes coverage by all hijabs, niqabs, scarves, helmets and others. The Federation has directed that jewellery purchases will be allowed only after proper facial identification.&nbsp;Bihar becomes the first state to formally implement any such rules. According to the federation, it is not imposing a ban on hijab and burqas but is making it compulsory to briefly reveal their faces to establish identity.&nbsp;“Several robbery incidents have occurred where people enter shops in groups with their faces fully covered. They wear helmets or veils and commit thefts. This decision is aimed at preventing such crimes," said Ashok Kumar Verma, State President of All India Jewellers and Gold Federation to IANS. Emphasising that there is no religious undertone towards the decision. He also added that the intention is not discrimination but to establish a sense of trust between the customer and shopkeepers.A spokesperson of the Rashtriya Janata Dal, Ezaz Ahmed, criticised the move, calling it an attack against the secular values of the constitution. He further alleged that the BJP and RSS members were behind the agenda.&nbsp;“Targeting hijabs and niqabs in the name of security hurts religious sentiments and amounts to an attempt to curtail the fundamental right to religious freedom guaranteed under the Constitution,” said Ahmed.While jewellers have been historically BJP voters, in 2016, there was a rift between the association and the party over the increased excise duty. Gold and Silver prices have skyrocketed, with 10 grams of gold valued at 1.40 lakhs and 1kg of silver at about 2.4 lakhs. BJP has extended support to the move in coherence with the security concerns of the Jewellery Association.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bihar becomes the first state to restrict veils, masks and helmets in jewellery shops, citing security risks amid rising gold and silver prices.

Bihar has issued a direction that it will not allow people with veils or masks from entering the Jewellery shop. This comes after the direction of the Jewellery Association, All India Jewellers and Gold Federation (AIJGF) in Bihar, citing security concerns amid rising prices of gold and other precious metals. This includes coverage by all hijabs, niqabs, scarves, helmets and others. The Federation has directed that jewellery purchases will be allowed only after proper facial identification. Bihar becomes the first state to formally implement any such rules. According to the federation, it is not imposing a ban on hijab and burqas but is making it compulsory to briefly reveal their faces to establish identity. “Several robbery incidents have occurred where people enter shops in groups with their faces fully covered. They wear helmets or veils and commit thefts. This decision is aimed at preventing such crimes," said Ashok Kumar Verma, State President of All India Jewellers and Gold Federation to IANS. Emphasising that there is no religious undertone towards the decision. He also added that the intention is not discrimination but to establish a sense of trust between the customer and shopkeepers. A spokesperson of the Rashtriya Janata Dal, Ezaz Ahmed, criticised the move, calling it an attack against the secular values of the constitution. He further alleged that the BJP and RSS members were behind the agenda. “Targeting hijabs and niqabs in the name of security hurts religious sentiments and amounts to an attempt to curtail the fundamental right to religious freedom guaranteed under the Constitution,” said Ahmed. While jewellers have been historically BJP voters, in 2016, there was a rift between the association and the party over the increased excise duty. Gold and Silver prices have skyrocketed, with 10 grams of gold valued at 1.40 lakhs and 1kg of silver at about 2.4 lakhs. BJP has extended support to the move in coherence with the security concerns of the Jewellery Association.

Bihar becomes the first state to restrict veils, masks and helmets in jewellery shops, citing security risks amid rising gold and silver prices.

Bihar jewellers ban purchase of gold for customers with veils or masks

A severe cold wave has gripped Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, with several locations across both Union Territories recording the lowest temperatures of the season on Thursday (Jan 8). As forecast by the Meteorological Department, temperatures have witnessed a sharp and sudden drop across major districts, significantly intensifying the winter chill.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pulls-us-out-of-66-organisations-and-treaties-including-india-led-international-solar-alliance-1767847347430">US exits 66 orgs and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance</a>Srinagar continued to reel under intense cold, with the mercury settling at minus 5.1 degrees Celsius. Srinagar Airport recorded an even lower temperature of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, marking the lowest of the season. &nbsp;The world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg recorded a minimum temperature of minus 9.2 degrees Celsius. South Kashmir’s tourist resort of Pahalgam followed closely, registering a low of minus 8.6 degrees Celsius. Elsewhere in South Kashmir, Shopian recorded a minimum temperature of minus 7.8 degrees Celsius, while Pulwama shivered at minus 6.8 degrees. In Central Kashmir, the resort town of Sonamarg registered a temperature of minus 9.8 degrees Celsius, the lowest recorded in the Kashmir Division today.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-if-you-invade-their-space-they-will-attack-supreme-court-weighs-in-on-stray-dog-safety-concerns-calls-for-more-empathy-in-treatment-1767803303945">'If you invade their space, they...': SC weighs in on stray dog safety concerns</a>Ladakh continued to remain the coldest region in the country, with temperatures plunging further across the high-altitude areas. Leh town recorded a minimum temperature of minus 14.6 degrees Celsius, while Kargil shivered at minus 13.4 degrees. Drass remained the coldest inhabited place in the region, with the mercury dipping to a bone-chilling minus 24.7 degrees Celsius, followed by Nyoma, which recorded a minimum temperature of minus 20.1 degrees Celsius.The Kashmir Valley is currently experiencing Chillai Kalan, the harshest and coldest phase of winter. The 40-day period began on December 21.&nbsp;<h2>MeT forecast</h2>The Meteorological Department (MeT) has forecast partly to generally cloudy conditions, with the possibility of light snowfall over isolated higher reaches of North, Central, and South Kashmir. The department has also predicted a significant fall in minimum temperatures until January 10, after which temperatures are likely to rise by 1–2°C. Meanwhile, moderate fog is expected to prevail over the plains of the Jammu division, with dense fog at isolated places likely to continue over the next two days.

A brutal cold wave has tightened its grip on Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh, with Srinagar, Gulmarg and Sonamarg recording season’s lowest temperatures. Drass plunged below minus 24°C as Chillai Kalan deepens, with more cold nights and light snowfall forecast.

A severe cold wave has gripped Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, with several locations across both Union Territories recording the lowest temperatures of the season on Thursday (Jan 8). As forecast by the Meteorological Department, temperatures have witnessed a sharp and sudden drop across major districts, significantly intensifying the winter chill. Also read | US exits 66 orgs and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance Srinagar continued to reel under intense cold, with the mercury settling at minus 5.1 degrees Celsius. Srinagar Airport recorded an even lower temperature of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, marking the lowest of the season. The world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg recorded a minimum temperature of minus 9.2 degrees Celsius. South Kashmir’s tourist resort of Pahalgam followed closely, registering a low of minus 8.6 degrees Celsius. Elsewhere in South Kashmir, Shopian recorded a minimum temperature of minus 7.8 degrees Celsius, while Pulwama shivered at minus 6.8 degrees. In Central Kashmir, the resort town of Sonamarg registered a temperature of minus 9.8 degrees Celsius, the lowest recorded in the Kashmir Division today. Also read | 'If you invade their space, they...': SC weighs in on stray dog safety concerns Ladakh continued to remain the coldest region in the country, with temperatures plunging further across the high-altitude areas. Leh town recorded a minimum temperature of minus 14.6 degrees Celsius, while Kargil shivered at minus 13.4 degrees. Drass remained the coldest inhabited place in the region, with the mercury dipping to a bone-chilling minus 24.7 degrees Celsius, followed by Nyoma, which recorded a minimum temperature of minus 20.1 degrees Celsius. The Kashmir Valley is currently experiencing Chillai Kalan, the harshest and coldest phase of winter. The 40-day period began on December 21. MeT forecast The Meteorological Department (MeT) has forecast partly to generally cloudy conditions, with the possibility of light snowfall over isolated higher reaches of North, Central, and South Kashmir. The department has also predicted a significant fall in minimum temperatures until January 10, after which temperatures are likely to rise by 1–2°C. Meanwhile, moderate fog is expected to prevail over the plains of the Jammu division, with dense fog at isolated places likely to continue over the next two days.

A brutal cold wave has tightened its grip on Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh, with Srinagar, Gulmarg and Sonamarg recording season’s lowest temperatures. Drass plunged below minus 24°C as Chillai Kalan deepens, with more cold nights and light snowfall forecast.

Bone-chilling cold tightens grip on J&K and Ladakh; Drass freezes at –24.7°C, Srinagar records season's lowest at minus 5.1

The government has sought additional information from X, asking for specific details on the action taken on obscene content linked to its Grok AI and the steps planned to prevent such incidents in the future, sources said on Wednesday. They added that despite a detailed replay of the X, the answer was not adequate.&nbsp;Citing sources, news agency PTI confirmed that X gave a long and detailed response, stating that it respects Indian laws and stipulated guidelines. It also outlined that the strict content takedown policies are applied when it comes to misleading posts, along with non-consensual sexualised images.&nbsp;However, sources said the reply was missing key information, such as specific takedown figures, concrete steps taken to address the Grok AI issue, and measures to prevent recurrence. While the response submitted by X on Wednesday was neither evasive nor superficial, it was considered inadequate.&nbsp;The IT Ministry has asked X to furnish further details, including the steps taken and measures planned to prevent future violations. It has sought precise data on content takedowns and directed the platform to respond promptly to the additional queries.&nbsp;In addition, X has not issued any public statement from its official handles detailing its submission to the Indian government. The platform was granted an extended time until 5 pm on Wednesday to submit an Action Taken Report, following a stern warning over the generation of indecent and sexually explicit content through the misuse of AI tools such as Grok.&nbsp;On the issue of safe harbour, government sources clarified that the conditional immunity under Section 79 of the IT Act applies to intermediaries like X, not to tools such as Grok. They added that intermediaries can lose this protection if they fail to act after being notified or do not meet due diligence requirements once a case is filed in court.<h3>X clarified that it acts against illegal content</h3>Earlier, on Sunday, X’s ‘Safety’ handle said the platform acts against illegal content, including child sexual abuse material, by removing such posts, permanently suspending accounts, and cooperating with local authorities and law enforcement when required.&nbsp;"Anyone using or prompting Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content," X had said, and reiterated the stand taken by Elon Musk on illegal content. The IT Ministry had pulled up X on January 2 and ordered it to immediately remove all obscene, vulgar and unlawful content, which is mostly generated by Grok or face action under the law.&nbsp;The ministry has asked X in its directive to submit a detailed action taken report (ATR) within 72 hours, focusing majorly technical and organisational measures adopted or proposed in relation to the Grok application that include the role and oversight exercised by the Chief Compliance Officer; actions taken against offending content, users and accounts; as well as mechanisms to ensure compliance with the compulsory reporting requirement under Indian laws.

X provided a lengthy and detailed response, stating that it respects Indian laws and adheres to stipulated guidelines. It also outlined that the strict content takedown policies are applied when it comes to misleading posts, along with non-consensual sexualised images.

The government has sought additional information from X, asking for specific details on the action taken on obscene content linked to its Grok AI and the steps planned to prevent such incidents in the future, sources said on Wednesday. They added that despite a detailed replay of the X, the answer was not adequate. Citing sources, news agency PTI confirmed that X gave a long and detailed response, stating that it respects Indian laws and stipulated guidelines. It also outlined that the strict content takedown policies are applied when it comes to misleading posts, along with non-consensual sexualised images. However, sources said the reply was missing key information, such as specific takedown figures, concrete steps taken to address the Grok AI issue, and measures to prevent recurrence. While the response submitted by X on Wednesday was neither evasive nor superficial, it was considered inadequate. The IT Ministry has asked X to furnish further details, including the steps taken and measures planned to prevent future violations. It has sought precise data on content takedowns and directed the platform to respond promptly to the additional queries. In addition, X has not issued any public statement from its official handles detailing its submission to the Indian government. The platform was granted an extended time until 5 pm on Wednesday to submit an Action Taken Report, following a stern warning over the generation of indecent and sexually explicit content through the misuse of AI tools such as Grok. On the issue of safe harbour, government sources clarified that the conditional immunity under Section 79 of the IT Act applies to intermediaries like X, not to tools such as Grok. They added that intermediaries can lose this protection if they fail to act after being notified or do not meet due diligence requirements once a case is filed in court. X clarified that it acts against illegal content Earlier, on Sunday, X’s ‘Safety’ handle said the platform acts against illegal content, including child sexual abuse material, by removing such posts, permanently suspending accounts, and cooperating with local authorities and law enforcement when required. "Anyone using or prompting Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content," X had said, and reiterated the stand taken by Elon Musk on illegal content. The IT Ministry had pulled up X on January 2 and ordered it to immediately remove all obscene, vulgar and unlawful content, which is mostly generated by Grok or face action under the law. The ministry has asked X in its directive to submit a detailed action taken report (ATR) within 72 hours, focusing majorly technical and organisational measures adopted or proposed in relation to the Grok application that include the role and oversight exercised by the Chief Compliance Officer; actions taken against offending content, users and accounts; as well as mechanisms to ensure compliance with the compulsory reporting requirement under Indian laws.

X provided a lengthy and detailed response, stating that it respects Indian laws and adheres to stipulated guidelines. It also outlined that the strict content takedown policies are applied when it comes to misleading posts, along with non-consensual sexualised images.

Grok AI obscene content row: X sends detailed reply, Indian govt isn't satisfied; Here's why

Amid ongoing security concerns across the world, &nbsp;member of parliament of Sri Lanka and son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Namal Rajapaksa has expressed "urgent need for stronger regional cooperation in South Asia, in which India can play a central role." He also stressed upon collective commitment to counter extremism.&nbsp;Taking to microblogging site X Rajapaksa highlighted the political turmoil witnessed in neighbouring countries Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka and wrote, "In recent years, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka have experienced periods of political turmoil, marked by public unrest and changes in government. At times, these disruptions have been supported and promoted by extremist elements. Addressing these challenges requires a collective commitment to counter extremism, prevent political violence, and safeguard minority rights.&nbsp;"As such, South Asia requires greater regional coherence to withstand emerging crises and respond collectively to shared challenges. In this context, India’s leadership is central to maintaining long-term peace and stability in the region," he added.&nbsp;He also mentioned that in the current scenario "South Asia can project greater influence internationally" for which "regional unity remains crucial for long-term peace and coherence."&nbsp;He then went on to say, "The upcoming elections in Bangladesh and Nepal present a hopeful opportunity to reaffirm democratic legitimacy through free and fair elections that will contribute to further strengthening regional security."

Namal said  that in the current scenario South Asia can project greater influence internationally for which regional unity remains crucial for long-term peace and coherence.

Amid ongoing security concerns across the world, member of parliament of Sri Lanka and son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Namal Rajapaksa has expressed "urgent need for stronger regional cooperation in South Asia, in which India can play a central role." He also stressed upon collective commitment to counter extremism. Taking to microblogging site X Rajapaksa highlighted the political turmoil witnessed in neighbouring countries Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka and wrote, "In recent years, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka have experienced periods of political turmoil, marked by public unrest and changes in government. At times, these disruptions have been supported and promoted by extremist elements. Addressing these challenges requires a collective commitment to counter extremism, prevent political violence, and safeguard minority rights. "As such, South Asia requires greater regional coherence to withstand emerging crises and respond collectively to shared challenges. In this context, India’s leadership is central to maintaining long-term peace and stability in the region," he added. He also mentioned that in the current scenario "South Asia can project greater influence internationally" for which "regional unity remains crucial for long-term peace and coherence." He then went on to say, "The upcoming elections in Bangladesh and Nepal present a hopeful opportunity to reaffirm democratic legitimacy through free and fair elections that will contribute to further strengthening regional security."

&nbsp;Namal said &nbsp;that in the current scenario "South Asia can project greater influence internationally" for which "regional unity remains crucial for long-term peace and coherence."

India can play central role in building stronger regional cooperation in South Asia: Ex-Sri Lankan Prez son

President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 7) signed an order withdrawing the United States from 66 organisations and treaties, which, as per a White House memorandum, are "contrary to the interests of the United States." This sweeping exit includes a departure from the India-led International Solar Alliance, a global initiative to boost solar energy adoption, enhance energy access, and combat climate change.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/minneapolis-on-edge-ice-agent-shot-renee-nicole-good-in-the-face-just-blocks-from-where-george-floyd-was-killed-by-police-1767837077854">Chilling parallel as ICE kills Renee Good steps from George Floyd murder site</a><h2>How many UN organisations has the US exit now?</h2>Reports suggest that roughly half of the organisations and treaties the US exited on Wednesday, are affiliated with the United Nations. The most notable is the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which happens to be the parent treaty underpinning all major international climate agreements.Trump, a climate change denier, previously also pulled the US from the landmark Paris climate accord. He has been known to openly scorn scientific consensus that human activity is warming the planet, and derides climate science as a "hoax."<h2>Can Trump do this? Or was this an illegal exit?</h2>While the US Constitution requires a two-thirds Senate majority to approve treaties, it does not clearly spell out how a president may withdraw from them, a legal grey area that could prompt court challenges.However, critics slammed the move as "illegal". Jean Su of the Center for Biological Diversity said "Pulling out of the UNFCCC is a whole order of magnitude different from pulling out of the Paris Agreement." She argued that it is "illegal for the President to unilaterally pull out of a treaty that required two-thirds of the Senate vote" and said legal options were being explored.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-captured-100-dead-over-hundred-injured-venezuela-reveals-grim-toll-of-us-raid-1767840789132">Maduro captured, 100 dead, over hundred injured: Venezuela reveals grim toll of US raid</a>Li Shuo of the Asia Society Policy Institute described the decision as "a heavy blow to global climate action, fracturing hard-won consensus".Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the move, saying many international bodies were driven by "progressive ideology" and sought to constrain American sovereignty. "From DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) mandates to 'gender equity' campaigns to climate orthodoxy, many international organisations now serve a globalist project," he said. On X, he noted that Trump has kept a “key promise” made to Americans: “We will stop subsidising globalist bureaucrats who act against our interests. The Trump Administration will always put America and Americans first.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center">Today, President Trump announced the U.S. is leaving 66 anti-American, useless, or wasteful international organizations. Review of additional international organizations remains ongoing. These withdrawals keep a key promise President Trump made to Americans - we will stop…&mdash; Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio/status/2009059107819671646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Which organisations/treaties did the US exit?</h2>Along with UNFCCC, the memo orders US withdrawal from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the International Renewable Energy Agency, UN Oceans and UN Water.<h3>Full list of organisations/treaties Trump has pulled the US out:</h3>(a) Non-United Nations Organizations:(i) 24/7 Carbon-Free Energy Compact;(ii) Colombo Plan Council;(iii) Commission for Environmental Cooperation;(iv) Education Cannot Wait;(v) European Centre of Excellence for CounteringHybrid Threats;(vi) Forum of European National Highway Research Laboratories;(vii) Freedom Online Coalition;(viii) Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund;(ix) Global Counterterrorism Forum;(x) Global Forum on Cyber Expertise;(xi) Global Forum on Migration and Development;(xii) Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research;(xiii) Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals, and Sustainable Development;(xiv) Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change;(xv) Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services;(xvi) International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property;(xvii) International Cotton Advisory Committee;(xviii) International Development Law Organization;(xix) International Energy Forum;(xx) International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies;(xxi) International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance;(xxii) International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law;(xxiii) International Lead and Zinc Study Group;(xxiv) International Renewable Energy Agency;(xxv) International Solar Alliance;(xxvi) International Tropical Timber Organization;(xxvii) International Union for Conservation of Nature;(xxviii) Pan American Institute of Geography and History;(xxix) Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation;(xxx) Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combatting Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia;(xxxi) Regional Cooperation Council;(xxxii) Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century;(xxxiii) Science and Technology Center in Ukraine;(xxxiv) Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme; and(xxxv) Venice Commission of the Council of Europe.(b) United Nations (UN) Organizations:(i) Department of Economic and Social Affairs;(ii) UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) — Economic Commission for Africa;(iii) ECOSOC — Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean;(iv) ECOSOC — Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific;(v) ECOSOC — Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia;(vi) International Law Commission;(vii) International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals;(viii) International Trade Centre;(ix) Office of the Special Adviser on Africa;(x) Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary General for Children in Armed Conflict;(xi) Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict;(xii) Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children;(xiii) Peacebuilding Commission;(xiv) Peacebuilding Fund;(xv) Permanent Forum on People of African Descent;(xvi) UN Alliance of Civilizations;(xvii) UN Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries;(xviii) UN Conference on Trade and Development;(xix) UN Democracy Fund;(xx) UN Energy;(xxi) UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women;(xxii) UN Framework Convention on Climate Change;(xxiii) UN Human Settlements Programme;(xxiv) UN Institute for Training and Research;(xxv) UN Oceans;(xxvi) UN Population Fund;(xxvii) UN Register of Conventional Arms;(xxviii) UN System Chief Executives Board for Coordination;(xxix) UN System Staff College;(xxx) UN Water; and(xxxi) UN University. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump has ordered the US out of 66 global bodies and treaties, including the India-led International Solar Alliance and key UN climate institutions. Critics slammed the move as ‘illegal’ and devastating for climate action.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 7) signed an order withdrawing the United States from 66 organisations and treaties, which, as per a White House memorandum, are "contrary to the interests of the United States." This sweeping exit includes a departure from the India-led International Solar Alliance, a global initiative to boost solar energy adoption, enhance energy access, and combat climate change. Also read | Chilling parallel as ICE kills Renee Good steps from George Floyd murder site How many UN organisations has the US exit now? Reports suggest that roughly half of the organisations and treaties the US exited on Wednesday, are affiliated with the United Nations. The most notable is the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which happens to be the parent treaty underpinning all major international climate agreements. Trump, a climate change denier, previously also pulled the US from the landmark Paris climate accord. He has been known to openly scorn scientific consensus that human activity is warming the planet, and derides climate science as a "hoax." Can Trump do this? Or was this an illegal exit? While the US Constitution requires a two-thirds Senate majority to approve treaties, it does not clearly spell out how a president may withdraw from them, a legal grey area that could prompt court challenges. However, critics slammed the move as "illegal". Jean Su of the Center for Biological Diversity said "Pulling out of the UNFCCC is a whole order of magnitude different from pulling out of the Paris Agreement." She argued that it is "illegal for the President to unilaterally pull out of a treaty that required two-thirds of the Senate vote" and said legal options were being explored. Also read | Maduro captured, 100 dead, over hundred injured: Venezuela reveals grim toll of US raid Li Shuo of the Asia Society Policy Institute described the decision as "a heavy blow to global climate action, fracturing hard-won consensus". Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the move, saying many international bodies were driven by "progressive ideology" and sought to constrain American sovereignty. "From DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) mandates to 'gender equity' campaigns to climate orthodoxy, many international organisations now serve a globalist project," he said. On X, he noted that Trump has kept a “key promise” made to Americans: “We will stop subsidising globalist bureaucrats who act against our interests. The Trump Administration will always put America and Americans first.”

Donald Trump has ordered the US out of 66 global bodies and treaties, including the India-led International Solar Alliance and key UN climate institutions. Critics slammed the move as ‘illegal’ and devastating for climate action. FULL LIST HERE.

Trump pulls US out of 66 organisations and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance | FULL LIST HERE

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US exits 66 orgs and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance