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Days after 9 people in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore lost their lives after allegedly drinking contaminated drinking water, initial reports from an inquiry have confirmed the presence of bacteria “generally found in sewer water”. It has com to light that vomiting and diarrhoea outbreak in the affected area was due to the contaminated drinking water.&nbsp;The tests detected the presence of Vibrio cholerae, Shigella, and E. coli. Bacteria, responsible for severe gastrointestinal infections and acute diarrhoea and vomiting.&nbsp;“The initial report has confirmed the presence of abnormal bacteria generally found in sewer water comprising human waste. However, we are yet to identify the bacteria as the culture report of bacteria is awaited. The report of stool tests of affected patients has not been received yet — that will also make it clear,” Indore-based Mahatma Gandhi Medical College’s dean Dr Arvind Ghanghoria said, as reported by Moneycontrol.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-pakistan-exchange-list-of-nuclear-installations-civilian-prisoners-amid-hostilies-1767287362551">India and Pakistan exchange list of nuclear installations, civilian prisoners amid hostilities</a>&nbsp;According to various media reports, a leakage in an underground pipeline near a police outpost in Bhagirathpura led to the contamination. Notably a toilet had reportedly been constructed above the pipeline.&nbsp;Officials are now examining the entire drinking water pipeline network in Bhagirathpura for any more leakage. And though clean water has been restored in the area, resident have still been advised to boil water before consumption for a few days.

According to various media reports, a leakage in an underground pipeline near a police outpost in Bhagirathpura led to the contamination.

Days after 9 people in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore lost their lives after allegedly drinking contaminated drinking water, initial reports from an inquiry have confirmed the presence of bacteria “generally found in sewer water”. It has com to light that vomiting and diarrhoea outbreak in the affected area was due to the contaminated drinking water. The tests detected the presence of Vibrio cholerae, Shigella, and E. coli. Bacteria, responsible for severe gastrointestinal infections and acute diarrhoea and vomiting. “The initial report has confirmed the presence of abnormal bacteria generally found in sewer water comprising human waste. However, we are yet to identify the bacteria as the culture report of bacteria is awaited. The report of stool tests of affected patients has not been received yet — that will also make it clear,” Indore-based Mahatma Gandhi Medical College’s dean Dr Arvind Ghanghoria said, as reported by Moneycontrol. ALSO READ: India and Pakistan exchange list of nuclear installations, civilian prisoners amid hostilities According to various media reports, a leakage in an underground pipeline near a police outpost in Bhagirathpura led to the contamination. Notably a toilet had reportedly been constructed above the pipeline. Officials are now examining the entire drinking water pipeline network in Bhagirathpura for any more leakage. And though clean water has been restored in the area, resident have still been advised to boil water before consumption for a few days.

According to various media reports, a leakage in an underground pipeline near a police outpost in Bhagirathpura led to the contamination.

'Sewer bacteria' in Indore water killed 9? Here's what probe says

Cold conditions are set to persist in the national capital, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of possible cold wave situations in isolated parts of Delhi from January 2 to January 5. The weather agency defines a cold wave as a situation where the minimum temperature falls between 4.5 and 6.5 degrees Celsius below the seasonal average. On Thursday, Delhi’s highest temperature reached only 17.3 degrees Celsius, about two degrees lower than normal. The lowest temperature stood at 10.6 degrees Celsius, which was slightly above the usual average for this time of year.&nbsp;Dense to very dense fog is expected to linger during nighttime and early morning hours across the city until January 6, the IMD said. Several areas reported poor visibility on Thursday. Safdarjung and Palam both recorded visibility dropping to 500 metres during late night and early morning hours, with only marginal improvement after sunrise. Similar foggy conditions are likely to continue over the coming days.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-pakistan-exchange-list-of-nuclear-installations-civilian-prisoners-amid-hostilies-1767287362551"> India and Pakistan exchange list of nuclear installations, civilian prisoners amid hostilities</a>&nbsp;Apart from Delhi, the IMD has also issued cold wave alerts for parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana until January 5.Meanwhile, Delhi experienced its coldest December day in six years on Wednesday, as the maximum temperature fell sharply to 14.2 degrees Celsius — over six degrees below normal. IMD records show that a colder December day was last observed on December 31, 2019, when the maximum temperature dropped to 9.4 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;The weather department expects partly cloudy skies ahead, with widespread fog in the mornings. Daytime temperatures are likely to hover between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius, while nighttime temperatures may fall to between 8 and 10 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;Air quality in the capital remained a major concern, with Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) staying in the ‘very poor’ category at 380, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Out of the monitoring stations, 26 reported ‘very poor’ air quality, while 11 slipped into the ‘severe’ range. Anand Vihar recorded the highest pollution levels with an AQI of 423. Officials cited weak wind movement and poor atmospheric ventilation as key factors preventing the dispersal of pollutants, worsening air quality across the city.

IMD warns of cold wave in Delhi; air quality remains in 'very poor' category

Cold conditions are set to persist in the national capital, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of possible cold wave situations in isolated parts of Delhi from January 2 to January 5. The weather agency defines a cold wave as a situation where the minimum temperature falls between 4.5 and 6.5 degrees Celsius below the seasonal average. On Thursday, Delhi’s highest temperature reached only 17.3 degrees Celsius, about two degrees lower than normal. The lowest temperature stood at 10.6 degrees Celsius, which was slightly above the usual average for this time of year. Dense to very dense fog is expected to linger during nighttime and early morning hours across the city until January 6, the IMD said. Several areas reported poor visibility on Thursday. Safdarjung and Palam both recorded visibility dropping to 500 metres during late night and early morning hours, with only marginal improvement after sunrise. Similar foggy conditions are likely to continue over the coming days. Also Read: India and Pakistan exchange list of nuclear installations, civilian prisoners amid hostilities Apart from Delhi, the IMD has also issued cold wave alerts for parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana until January 5. Meanwhile, Delhi experienced its coldest December day in six years on Wednesday, as the maximum temperature fell sharply to 14.2 degrees Celsius — over six degrees below normal. IMD records show that a colder December day was last observed on December 31, 2019, when the maximum temperature dropped to 9.4 degrees Celsius. The weather department expects partly cloudy skies ahead, with widespread fog in the mornings. Daytime temperatures are likely to hover between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius, while nighttime temperatures may fall to between 8 and 10 degrees Celsius. Air quality in the capital remained a major concern, with Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) staying in the ‘very poor’ category at 380, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Out of the monitoring stations, 26 reported ‘very poor’ air quality, while 11 slipped into the ‘severe’ range. Anand Vihar recorded the highest pollution levels with an AQI of 423. Officials cited weak wind movement and poor atmospheric ventilation as key factors preventing the dispersal of pollutants, worsening air quality across the city.

IMD warns of cold wave conditions in Delhi till January 5, with dense fog, low temperatures, and ‘very poor’ air quality continuing across the city

Shares of ITC Limited saw their steepest fall in almost six years after the Indian government announced a sharp increase in excise duties on cigarettes, raising fears about pressure on earnings for the country’s largest cigarette manufacturer. According to a notification issued late on Wednesday (December 31, 2025), cigarette excise duty will rise to between ₹2,050 and ₹8,500 per 1,000 sticks starting February 1, 2026. Analysts at Jefferies Financial Group said that if the National Calamity Contingent Duty remains in place, the overall tax increase could exceed 30%, significantly higher than market expectations.&nbsp;ITC’s stock slid 10% on Thursday (January 1), its worst single-day decline since 2020. Godfrey Phillips India Ltd. fared even worse, ending the session down 17% in Mumbai. Trading volumes for both stocks surged to more than 20 times their three-month average. ITC markets cigarette brands such as Gold Flake and Classic, while Godfrey Phillips sells Marlboro and Four Square in India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-india-s-small-nuclear-reactor-ambitions-take-wing-in-2026-bsrs-private-participation-shanti-bill-what-you-should-know-1767267619636">Will India’s small nuclear reactor ambitions take wing in 2026? BSRs, private participation, SHANTI Bill: What you should know</a>&nbsp;Investors were caught off guard by the scale of the levy, leading to uncertainty over how cigarette makers will absorb or pass on the higher costs. Cigarettes contribute more than 40% of ITC’s total revenue, making the company particularly vulnerable to any slowdown in volumes. The development adds to existing concerns as British American Tobacco Plc, ITC’s largest shareholder, has been steadily trimming its stake.&nbsp;Jefferies analysts, led by Vivek Maheshwari, warned that higher prices could hurt demand and revive risks of consumers shifting to illicit cigarette markets. They estimate ITC may need to raise prices by at least 15% to offset the impact of the new taxes.&nbsp;The higher excise duty comes on top of the 40% Goods and Services Tax applied to tobacco products, also effective from February 1. The government has said the move is meant to compensate for revenue losses resulting from broad tax reductions announced in September. India is home to more than 253 million tobacco users, the second-largest such population worldwide. The finance ministry estimates that tobacco-related illnesses impose an annual economic burden of over ₹2.4 trillion on the country.&nbsp;Authorities have intensified efforts to curb tobacco consumption, including new taxes on manufacturing equipment and proposed restrictions on advertising, such as banning promotions during Indian Premier League matches. The finance ministry maintains that keeping tobacco products expensive is one of the most effective ways to reduce consumption and insists that higher taxes will not encourage smuggling or illegal trade.

Cigarette tax: Shares of ITC see sharpest fall since 2020 after government raises levies

Shares of ITC Limited saw their steepest fall in almost six years after the Indian government announced a sharp increase in excise duties on cigarettes, raising fears about pressure on earnings for the country’s largest cigarette manufacturer. According to a notification issued late on Wednesday (December 31, 2025), cigarette excise duty will rise to between ₹2,050 and ₹8,500 per 1,000 sticks starting February 1, 2026. Analysts at Jefferies Financial Group said that if the National Calamity Contingent Duty remains in place, the overall tax increase could exceed 30%, significantly higher than market expectations. ITC’s stock slid 10% on Thursday (January 1), its worst single-day decline since 2020. Godfrey Phillips India Ltd. fared even worse, ending the session down 17% in Mumbai. Trading volumes for both stocks surged to more than 20 times their three-month average. ITC markets cigarette brands such as Gold Flake and Classic, while Godfrey Phillips sells Marlboro and Four Square in India. Also Read: Will India’s small nuclear reactor ambitions take wing in 2026? BSRs, private participation, SHANTI Bill: What you should know Investors were caught off guard by the scale of the levy, leading to uncertainty over how cigarette makers will absorb or pass on the higher costs. Cigarettes contribute more than 40% of ITC’s total revenue, making the company particularly vulnerable to any slowdown in volumes. The development adds to existing concerns as British American Tobacco Plc, ITC’s largest shareholder, has been steadily trimming its stake. Jefferies analysts, led by Vivek Maheshwari, warned that higher prices could hurt demand and revive risks of consumers shifting to illicit cigarette markets. They estimate ITC may need to raise prices by at least 15% to offset the impact of the new taxes. The higher excise duty comes on top of the 40% Goods and Services Tax applied to tobacco products, also effective from February 1. The government has said the move is meant to compensate for revenue losses resulting from broad tax reductions announced in September. India is home to more than 253 million tobacco users, the second-largest such population worldwide. The finance ministry estimates that tobacco-related illnesses impose an annual economic burden of over ₹2.4 trillion on the country. Authorities have intensified efforts to curb tobacco consumption, including new taxes on manufacturing equipment and proposed restrictions on advertising, such as banning promotions during Indian Premier League matches. The finance ministry maintains that keeping tobacco products expensive is one of the most effective ways to reduce consumption and insists that higher taxes will not encourage smuggling or illegal trade.

ITC and Godfrey Phillips shares fell sharply after government announced a major cigarette tax hike, raising concerns over volumes, margins, and illicit trade risks

The magisterial committee probing the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub fire in Goa has submitted its report and has highlighted forgery, trade licence violations, and illegal construction as the key reasons behind the December 6, 2025, tragedy that resulted in 25 deaths. The enquiry committee found that Panchayat Secretary Raghuvir Bagkar allowed the nightclub to operate despite its trade licence had expired. Since the licence had expired, the establishment should have led to its immediate closure, but the operations continued unabated, putting the patrons and staff at risk.&nbsp;Investigators determined that Bagkar granted licence within four days of application, bypassing required procedures. The committee also highlighted the speed of approval and failure to check the adequacy of submitted documents by Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, the club’s owners.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-shares-new-york-post-editorial-highly-critical-of-putin-signalling-displeasure-1767270412761">Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure</a>&nbsp;Normally, such applications undergo strict scrutiny, including verification of all documents, site inspections, and cross-checking of credentials of the applicant, but, in this case, the process was expedited.The report stated there was forgery in the documents submitted to obtain the trade licence, and “the mention of bar and nightclub was added later” in the paperwork.&nbsp;Moreover, the committee found that the house number provided in the application for approving land use for the nightclub did not even exist. This fictitious address allowed the operators to circumvent checks that should have ensured the legitimacy of the premises. The adjacent shops and tenements near the club and a resort were illegally constructed on salt pan land, a protected area.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-praises-troops-hails-north-korea-s-invincible-alliance-with-russia-1767263998705">Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia</a>&nbsp;<h2>Committee recommends dismissal of Bagkar</h2>&nbsp;Bagkar had allowed the development despite clear violation of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms.&nbsp;Construction in ecologically sensitive areas breaches environmental laws and increases hazards in the event of disasters like fires or floods.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-vows-to-reunify-china-and-taiwan-urges-for-growth-in-new-year-s-eve-speech-1767193882182">Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech</a>&nbsp;The report also accused Bagkar of issuing the trade licence to the Luthra brothers despite them not having the required permits and licenses and NOCs. On the basis of the violations and administrative lapses, the committee has recommended the dismissal of Bagkar from service.

Panchayat Secretary Raghuvir Bagkar granted licence within four days of application, bypassing required procedures. The committee also highlighted the speed of approval and failure to check the adequacy of submitted documents by Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, the club’s owners.

The magisterial committee probing the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub fire in Goa has submitted its report and has highlighted forgery, trade licence violations, and illegal construction as the key reasons behind the December 6, 2025, tragedy that resulted in 25 deaths. The enquiry committee found that Panchayat Secretary Raghuvir Bagkar allowed the nightclub to operate despite its trade licence had expired. Since the licence had expired, the establishment should have led to its immediate closure, but the operations continued unabated, putting the patrons and staff at risk. Investigators determined that Bagkar granted licence within four days of application, bypassing required procedures. The committee also highlighted the speed of approval and failure to check the adequacy of submitted documents by Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, the club’s owners. Also Read: Trump shares New York Post editorial highly critical of Putin, signalling displeasure Normally, such applications undergo strict scrutiny, including verification of all documents, site inspections, and cross-checking of credentials of the applicant, but, in this case, the process was expedited. The report stated there was forgery in the documents submitted to obtain the trade licence, and “the mention of bar and nightclub was added later” in the paperwork. Moreover, the committee found that the house number provided in the application for approving land use for the nightclub did not even exist. This fictitious address allowed the operators to circumvent checks that should have ensured the legitimacy of the premises. The adjacent shops and tenements near the club and a resort were illegally constructed on salt pan land, a protected area. Also Read: Kim Jong-un praises troops, hails North Korea’s ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia Committee recommends dismissal of Bagkar Bagkar had allowed the development despite clear violation of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms. Construction in ecologically sensitive areas breaches environmental laws and increases hazards in the event of disasters like fires or floods. Also Read: Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech The report also accused Bagkar of issuing the trade licence to the Luthra brothers despite them not having the required permits and licenses and NOCs. On the basis of the violations and administrative lapses, the committee has recommended the dismissal of Bagkar from service.

Panchayat Secretary Raghuvir Bagkar granted licence within four days of application, bypassing required procedures. The committee also highlighted the speed of approval and failure to check the adequacy of submitted documents by Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, the club’s owners.

Goa nightclub gutted in fire was built illegally, officials colluded with owners: Probe report

Fresh details have surfaced a day after a 25-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted by two men inside a moving van in Haryana’s Faridabad and later pushed onto the road. According to police sources cited by news agency PTI, the woman was threatened when she cried for help. The accused allegedly drove around for several hours before abandoning her on a largely deserted stretch of the Gurugram–Faridabad road during the early hours of the morning.&nbsp;The incident has drawn comparisons to the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case due to similarities in timing and circumstances. Officials said the vehicle was travelling at high speed when the woman was forced out. Two men have been taken into custody in connection with the case. One is from Uttar Pradesh and the other from Madhya Pradesh. Both have been sent to judicial custody while the investigation continues.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-hindu-man-attacked-set-ablaze-by-mob-in-bangladesh-reports-1767271950712">Another Hindu man attacked, set ablaze by mob in Bangladesh: Reports</a>&nbsp;Hospital authorities confirmed on Thursday (Jan 1) that the survivor is in stable condition. She is receiving treatment for serious head and facial injuries, including wounds that required multiple stitches. Police said the woman had been staying with her parents following marital issues. On Monday evening, after a disagreement at home, she went to visit a friend in Sector 23.&nbsp;While returning late at night, she travelled part of the way by auto-rickshaw and then walked to Metro Chowk. As she waited for transport around midnight, the accused allegedly offered her a lift. Instead of taking her to her destination, police allege the men drove toward Gurugram and assaulted her inside the vehicle. She was later found near Raja Chowk in Faridabad around 3 am. The Maruti Eeco van, believed to have been used in the crime, has also been seized by the police.

Threatened with death, gang-raped through the night: Shocking details emerge in Faridabad case

Fresh details have surfaced a day after a 25-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted by two men inside a moving van in Haryana’s Faridabad and later pushed onto the road. According to police sources cited by news agency PTI, the woman was threatened when she cried for help. The accused allegedly drove around for several hours before abandoning her on a largely deserted stretch of the Gurugram–Faridabad road during the early hours of the morning. The incident has drawn comparisons to the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case due to similarities in timing and circumstances. Officials said the vehicle was travelling at high speed when the woman was forced out. Two men have been taken into custody in connection with the case. One is from Uttar Pradesh and the other from Madhya Pradesh. Both have been sent to judicial custody while the investigation continues. Also Read: Another Hindu man attacked, set ablaze by mob in Bangladesh: Reports Hospital authorities confirmed on Thursday (Jan 1) that the survivor is in stable condition. She is receiving treatment for serious head and facial injuries, including wounds that required multiple stitches. Police said the woman had been staying with her parents following marital issues. On Monday evening, after a disagreement at home, she went to visit a friend in Sector 23. While returning late at night, she travelled part of the way by auto-rickshaw and then walked to Metro Chowk. As she waited for transport around midnight, the accused allegedly offered her a lift. Instead of taking her to her destination, police allege the men drove toward Gurugram and assaulted her inside the vehicle. She was later found near Raja Chowk in Faridabad around 3 am. The Maruti Eeco van, believed to have been used in the crime, has also been seized by the police.

A 25-year-old woman was gang-raped in a moving van in Faridabad and was thrown out hours later. Two men have been arrested; the survivor is in stable condition

A row has erupted after a cricketer was seen wearing the Palestinian flag during a domestic league match in Jammu and Kashmir. The player was identified as Furqan Bhat, had reportedly used a Palestinian flag on his helmet while playing a match in the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League.&nbsp;The scene erupted while Furqan Bhat was playing for the local JK11 team during yesterday's game against the Jammu Trailblazers. In response to the act, he has been summoned by the Jammu Rural Police for inquiry, according to a report in NDTV.&nbsp;Along with Furqan Bhat, the organiser of the league and the person who provided the ground for the match, will also be inquired about. Meanwhile, further investigation is in process.<h3>Ceasefire between Israel and Hamas</h3>The Jammu controversy has come to the fore months after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Protests continue globally in support of Palestinian statehood, which controls the Gaza Strip. The protest has grown amid worsening conditions in Gaza, where severe food shortages and a lack of essential medicines have raised alarm.&nbsp;Concerns are mounting that the situation could deteriorate further as Israel plans to bar 37 aid organisations from operating in Gaza. Humanitarian groups and international agencies have urged authorities to reconsider, warning that such a move could undo the limited gains made during the ceasefire.&nbsp;In line with its long-standing foreign policy, India backs a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, which includes the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

The controversy surfaced while Furqan Bhat was playing for the local JK11 team during yesterday's game against the Jammu Trailblazers. In response to the act, he has been summoned by the Jammu Rural Police for inquiry.

A row has erupted after a cricketer was seen wearing the Palestinian flag during a domestic league match in Jammu and Kashmir. The player was identified as Furqan Bhat, had reportedly used a Palestinian flag on his helmet while playing a match in the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League. The scene erupted while Furqan Bhat was playing for the local JK11 team during yesterday's game against the Jammu Trailblazers. In response to the act, he has been summoned by the Jammu Rural Police for inquiry, according to a report in NDTV. Along with Furqan Bhat, the organiser of the league and the person who provided the ground for the match, will also be inquired about. Meanwhile, further investigation is in process. Ceasefire between Israel and Hamas The Jammu controversy has come to the fore months after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Protests continue globally in support of Palestinian statehood, which controls the Gaza Strip. The protest has grown amid worsening conditions in Gaza, where severe food shortages and a lack of essential medicines have raised alarm. Concerns are mounting that the situation could deteriorate further as Israel plans to bar 37 aid organisations from operating in Gaza. Humanitarian groups and international agencies have urged authorities to reconsider, warning that such a move could undo the limited gains made during the ceasefire. In line with its long-standing foreign policy, India backs a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, which includes the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

The controversy surfaced while Furqan Bhat was playing for the local JK11 team during yesterday's game against the Jammu Trailblazers. In response to the act, he has been summoned by the Jammu Rural Police for inquiry.

Cricketer summoned for wearing Palestinian flag during J&K Champions League

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday (January 2026) that the first Vande Bharat sleeper train will be launched this month, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to flag off the sleeper train in the second half of January 2026. The Vande Bharat Sleeper is a fully air-conditioned train set developed by Indian Railways for long-haul and overnight travel.&nbsp;Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that two Vande Bharat sleeper rakes are ready and have completed successful trial runs. These trains will operate on long-distance routes of around 1,200–1,500 km under the national transporter.<h3>What will be the Vande Bharat Sleeper train route?</h3>Vaishnaw confirmed that the first Vande Bharat sleeper service will connect Guwahati and Kolkata. Each train will have 16 coaches, including 11 AC 3-tier, four AC 2-tier and one AC First Class coach, with a total passenger capacity of 823. He also said that over the next six months, eight more sleeper Vande Bharat trains are likely to be introduced, bringing the total to 12 by the end of the year.The service is planned to run between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya). Meanwhile, Indian Railways confirmed that the route will benefit several districts, including Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon in Assam, and Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Maldah, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly and Howrah in West Bengal.<h3>What will be the fares of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train?</h3>Indian Railways has said fares for the Vande Bharat sleeper service on the Guwahati–Kolkata route will begin at Rs 2,300 for a one-way journey. The AC 3-tier fare is set at Rs 2,300, while passengers travelling in AC 2-tier will pay Rs 3,000. The fare for AC First Class has been fixed at Rs 3,600.&nbsp;During trial runs on the Kota–Nagda section, the Vande Bharat sleeper train reached its maximum design speed of 180 kmph. One of the key highlights of the test was its stability, with glasses filled with water staying upright and without spillage even at speeds exceeding 180 kmph.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that two Vande Bharat sleeper rakes are ready and have completed successful trial runs. These trains will operate on long-distance routes of around 1,200–1,500 km under the national transporter.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday (January 2026) that the first Vande Bharat sleeper train will be launched this month, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to flag off the sleeper train in the second half of January 2026. The Vande Bharat Sleeper is a fully air-conditioned train set developed by Indian Railways for long-haul and overnight travel. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that two Vande Bharat sleeper rakes are ready and have completed successful trial runs. These trains will operate on long-distance routes of around 1,200–1,500 km under the national transporter. What will be the Vande Bharat Sleeper train route? Vaishnaw confirmed that the first Vande Bharat sleeper service will connect Guwahati and Kolkata. Each train will have 16 coaches, including 11 AC 3-tier, four AC 2-tier and one AC First Class coach, with a total passenger capacity of 823. He also said that over the next six months, eight more sleeper Vande Bharat trains are likely to be introduced, bringing the total to 12 by the end of the year. The service is planned to run between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya). Meanwhile, Indian Railways confirmed that the route will benefit several districts, including Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon in Assam, and Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Maldah, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly and Howrah in West Bengal. What will be the fares of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train? Indian Railways has said fares for the Vande Bharat sleeper service on the Guwahati–Kolkata route will begin at Rs 2,300 for a one-way journey. The AC 3-tier fare is set at Rs 2,300, while passengers travelling in AC 2-tier will pay Rs 3,000. The fare for AC First Class has been fixed at Rs 3,600. During trial runs on the Kota–Nagda section, the Vande Bharat sleeper train reached its maximum design speed of 180 kmph. One of the key highlights of the test was its stability, with glasses filled with water staying upright and without spillage even at speeds exceeding 180 kmph.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that two Vande Bharat sleeper rakes are ready and have completed successful trial runs. These trains will operate on long-distance routes of around 1,200–1,500 km under the national transporter.

What will be the ticket cost and route of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train? Check AC 3-tier, 2-tier and 1st class prices

A Hindu man in Bangladesh suffered serious injuries after allegedly being attacked by a group of assailants who stabbed him and set him on fire, in a case that has once again drawn attention to the growing insecurity faced by religious minorities in the country. The victim, 50-year-old Khokon Das, was reportedly on his way home on December 31 when he was stopped by a mob in Shariatpur district. According to local reports, the attackers assaulted him with sharp weapons, beat him severely, doused him with petrol, and then set him ablaze.&nbsp;Despite suffering multiple stab wounds and burn injuries, Das managed to save his life by jumping into a nearby pond. He was later pulled out by residents and taken to Shariatpur Sadar Hospital, where doctors described his condition as critical. The incident occurred around the same time External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Dhaka to attend the funeral of former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia. During the visit, Jaishankar delivered a condolence message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to BNP leader Tarique Rahman.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/human-radar-man-sits-on-moving-car-bonnet-to-guide-driver-through-zero-visibility-fog-internet-reacts-1767267578124">Human radar? Man sits on moving car bonnet to guide driver through zero-visibility fog, internet reacts</a>&nbsp;Following the visit, Bangladesh expressed hope for renewed engagement with India. Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, said on social media that both countries were aiming to strengthen ties based on shared interests, pragmatism, and mutual dependence.<h2>Growing attacks on minority communities</h2>This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence targeting Hindus in Bangladesh. In recent weeks, unrest following the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi has led to multiple mob attacks. In Mymensingh, garment worker Dipu Chandra Das was reportedly beaten to death and his body burned by a mob, with bystanders filming the attack.&nbsp;In another case on December 24, 29-year-old Amrit Mondal was allegedly lynched in the Hossaindanga area of Kalimohar Union. Separately, a 40-year-old Hindu man was killed after being shot inside a garment factory in what police termed an accidental discharge by a coworker.&nbsp;India’s Ministry of External Affairs has said that nearly 2,900 incidents involving attacks on minorities have been recorded since Bangladesh came under an interim government. Bangladesh, currently under a transitional administration headed by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, is navigating political uncertainty amid preparations for elections, while deteriorating law and order has heightened fear among minority communities.

Another Hindu man attacked, set ablaze by mob in Bangladesh: Reports

A Hindu man in Bangladesh suffered serious injuries after allegedly being attacked by a group of assailants who stabbed him and set him on fire, in a case that has once again drawn attention to the growing insecurity faced by religious minorities in the country. The victim, 50-year-old Khokon Das, was reportedly on his way home on December 31 when he was stopped by a mob in Shariatpur district. According to local reports, the attackers assaulted him with sharp weapons, beat him severely, doused him with petrol, and then set him ablaze. Despite suffering multiple stab wounds and burn injuries, Das managed to save his life by jumping into a nearby pond. He was later pulled out by residents and taken to Shariatpur Sadar Hospital, where doctors described his condition as critical. The incident occurred around the same time External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Dhaka to attend the funeral of former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia. During the visit, Jaishankar delivered a condolence message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to BNP leader Tarique Rahman. Also Read: Human radar? Man sits on moving car bonnet to guide driver through zero-visibility fog, internet reacts Following the visit, Bangladesh expressed hope for renewed engagement with India. Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, said on social media that both countries were aiming to strengthen ties based on shared interests, pragmatism, and mutual dependence. Growing attacks on minority communities This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence targeting Hindus in Bangladesh. In recent weeks, unrest following the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi has led to multiple mob attacks. In Mymensingh, garment worker Dipu Chandra Das was reportedly beaten to death and his body burned by a mob, with bystanders filming the attack. In another case on December 24, 29-year-old Amrit Mondal was allegedly lynched in the Hossaindanga area of Kalimohar Union. Separately, a 40-year-old Hindu man was killed after being shot inside a garment factory in what police termed an accidental discharge by a coworker. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has said that nearly 2,900 incidents involving attacks on minorities have been recorded since Bangladesh came under an interim government. Bangladesh, currently under a transitional administration headed by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, is navigating political uncertainty amid preparations for elections, while deteriorating law and order has heightened fear among minority communities.

A Hindu man was critically injured after a mob attack in Bangladesh. This comes in the wake of growing violence and insecurity faced by minority communities

As dense winter fog continues to engulf large parts of north India, drastically reducing visibility on roads and highways, a viral Instagram video has sparked widespread concern, and disbelief online. The clip features a group of men attempting to navigate through near-zero visibility by making one of their friends sit on the bonnet of a moving car to guide the driver. The video posted by davldeed which has now surpassed 11 million views online, has prompted sharp criticism from social media users, many of whom described the act as reckless and dangerous.&nbsp;<h2>‘No lights are useful here’</h2> In the video, filmed at night, the car moves slowly through thick fog with headlights rendered almost useless. One of the passengers explains the situation from behind the camera: “Guys, visibility is zero. We have made a person sit outside on the car’s bonnet. He is giving us instructions because right now we are not on the main road. It’s an off-road patch and we are unable to see anything here. We can’t figure out where to turn.” However, people are advised to refrain from performing such actions as it can be quite risky, while a small mistake can lead to a major accident.&nbsp;As laughter fills the car, the man seated on the bonnet gestures with his hands, signalling the driver when to turn the steering wheel. At one point, another passenger declares, “No lights are useful here, make a person sit like this.” The group sarcastically labels their improvisation as “ADAS Level 4. Only 1 in India Scorpio,” likening the risky manoeuvre to advanced driver assistance systems. The tone remains casual, even as the man outside remains exposed to both freezing temperatures and the obvious risk of serious injury.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;<h2>Online outrage, advice and dark humour</h2> The response online was swift and largely critical. “Accident se pehle thand se mar jaega (“he’ll die from the cold before an accident happens),” one user commented. Another wrote, “One emergency brake,” followed by laughing emojis, highlighting how little margin for error such a stunt allows.&nbsp;Several users offered safer alternatives. “Always open the camera… It works best in fog and will show u a clearer image on screen,” one suggested, while another advised using a phone’s pro camera mode to improve visibility. Others resorted to sarcasm. “Naya feature aya h Scorpio m, Human radar (Looks like the Scorpio has a new feature: human radar),” one user joked.Some remarks were comparatively more pointed. “This is the reason why men no live longer as compared to women,” one user wrote.

The clip features a group of men attempting to navigate through near-zero visibility by making one of their friends sit on the bonnet of a moving car to guide the driver.

As dense winter fog continues to engulf large parts of north India, drastically reducing visibility on roads and highways, a viral Instagram video has sparked widespread concern, and disbelief online. The clip features a group of men attempting to navigate through near-zero visibility by making one of their friends sit on the bonnet of a moving car to guide the driver. The video posted by davldeed which has now surpassed 11 million views online, has prompted sharp criticism from social media users, many of whom described the act as reckless and dangerous. ‘No lights are useful here’ In the video, filmed at night, the car moves slowly through thick fog with headlights rendered almost useless. One of the passengers explains the situation from behind the camera: “Guys, visibility is zero. We have made a person sit outside on the car’s bonnet. He is giving us instructions because right now we are not on the main road. It’s an off-road patch and we are unable to see anything here. We can’t figure out where to turn.” However, people are advised to refrain from performing such actions as it can be quite risky, while a small mistake can lead to a major accident. As laughter fills the car, the man seated on the bonnet gestures with his hands, signalling the driver when to turn the steering wheel. At one point, another passenger declares, “No lights are useful here, make a person sit like this.” The group sarcastically labels their improvisation as “ADAS Level 4. Only 1 in India Scorpio,” likening the risky manoeuvre to advanced driver assistance systems. The tone remains casual, even as the man outside remains exposed to both freezing temperatures and the obvious risk of serious injury.

The clip features a group of men attempting to navigate through near-zero visibility by making one of their friends sit on the bonnet of a moving car to guide the driver.

Human radar? Man sits on moving car bonnet to guide driver through zero-visibility fog, internet reacts

All the central government employees are expecting to increase in their salaries after the 8th Pay Commission comes into effect on January 1, 2026. The 8th Pay Commission was announced by the central government in January 2025. The Terms of Reference (ToR) of the 8th Central Pay Commission was issued by the Union Cabinet, which will review salaries, allowances and pension benefits for central government employees and pensioners.&nbsp;Along with the employees, pensioners also expect a high fitment factor in order to receive a good amount of arrears and pension in the future. However, the actual increase in salaries and pensions will be clear only after the Centre finalises the fitment factor.<h3>6th Pay Commission salary hike</h3>Under the 6th Pay Commission, a fitment factor of 1.92 led to a 1.92-fold rise in basic pay. The minimum basic salary rose from Rs 3,200 under the 5th Pay Commission to Rs 7,440, while the maximum increased from Rs 30,000 to Rs 90,000.<h3>7th Pay Commission salary hike</h3>The 7th Pay Commission applied a fitment factor of 2.57, resulting in a similar increase in basic pay and pensions. The minimum basic pay went up from Rs 7,440 to Rs 18,000, and the maximum climbed from Rs 90,000 to Rs 2.5 lakh.<h3>What is the 8th Pay Commission's projected salary hike?</h3>For the 8th Pay Commission, experts estimate that the fitment factor could range between 1.8 and 2.86, though no official announcement has been made yet. A higher factor would mean a bigger rise in the basic salary. For instance, if a factor of 2.15 is adopted and an employee currently earns a basic salary of Rs 50,000, the revised basic pay would be calculated by multiplying the existing salary by 2.15. (Rs 50,000x2.5 = 1,25,0000)&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-8th-pay-commission-to-da-hikes-10-changes-for-india-s-central-govt-employees-and-pensioners-in-2025-1766482829774">From 8th Pay Commission to DA hikes: 10 changes for India's central govt employees and pensioners in 2025</a>

Along with the employees, pensioners also expect a high fitment factor in order to receive a good amount of arrears and pension in the future. However, the actual increase in salaries and pensions will be clear only after the Centre finalises the fitment factor.

All the central government employees are expecting to increase in their salaries after the 8th Pay Commission comes into effect on January 1, 2026. The 8th Pay Commission was announced by the central government in January 2025. The Terms of Reference (ToR) of the 8th Central Pay Commission was issued by the Union Cabinet, which will review salaries, allowances and pension benefits for central government employees and pensioners. Along with the employees, pensioners also expect a high fitment factor in order to receive a good amount of arrears and pension in the future. However, the actual increase in salaries and pensions will be clear only after the Centre finalises the fitment factor. 6th Pay Commission salary hike Under the 6th Pay Commission, a fitment factor of 1.92 led to a 1.92-fold rise in basic pay. The minimum basic salary rose from Rs 3,200 under the 5th Pay Commission to Rs 7,440, while the maximum increased from Rs 30,000 to Rs 90,000. 7th Pay Commission salary hike The 7th Pay Commission applied a fitment factor of 2.57, resulting in a similar increase in basic pay and pensions. The minimum basic pay went up from Rs 7,440 to Rs 18,000, and the maximum climbed from Rs 90,000 to Rs 2.5 lakh. What is the 8th Pay Commission's projected salary hike? For the 8th Pay Commission, experts estimate that the fitment factor could range between 1.8 and 2.86, though no official announcement has been made yet. A higher factor would mean a bigger rise in the basic salary. For instance, if a factor of 2.15 is adopted and an employee currently earns a basic salary of Rs 50,000, the revised basic pay would be calculated by multiplying the existing salary by 2.15. (Rs 50,000x2.5 = 1,25,0000) Also read: From 8th Pay Commission to DA hikes: 10 changes for India's central govt employees and pensioners in 2025

Along with the employees, pensioners also expect a high fitment factor in order to receive a good amount of arrears and pension in the future. However, the actual increase in salaries and pensions will be clear only after the Centre finalises the fitment factor.

8th Pay Commission effective from January 1: What is the projected salary hike? Check inside

Liquor sales in Telangana witnessed an extraordinary spike during the New Year period, with officials revealing that nearly Rs 1,000 crore worth of alcohol was sold within just three days. This surge in demand was spread across the state, with data showing a total of Rs 1,350 crore in liquor sales over six days. The figures highlight a strong consumer appetite for alcoholic beverages during this festive season, although district-wise or city-wise breakdowns of sales weren’t shared. Additionally, the volume of liquor sold during the three days was substantial, with 8.3 lakh cases of liquor and 7.78 lakh cases of beer purchased by consumers.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-is-this-real-indian-american-exec-s-viral-post-on-loud-aunties-disrupting-vietnam-cruise-sparks-civic-sense-debate-1767264075379">‘Is this real’: Indian-American exec’s viral post on loud ‘aunties’ disrupting Vietnam cruise sparks civic sense debate</a>&nbsp;Officials said that this uptick in sales is in line with seasonal trends typically observed during the New Year, though no comparisons were made to previous years, nor were specific revenue projections or enforcement details disclosed.Despite the lack of detailed breakdowns, authorities assured that these numbers reflect the total sales across licensed outlets in the state during the given period. Further insights might be released later, but for now, the data underscores the large-scale consumption of alcohol in Telangana during the New Year festivities.<h2>What is driving the sales?</h2>Officials also said that recently opened licensed liquor outlets offered a wide range of multi-brand products along with various flavours, giving consumers more choices. This expanded selection is believed to be a key factor behind the sharp rise in liquor sales during the New Year period.&nbsp;They also said that rapidly evolving consumer preferences and a growing inclination toward alcohol consumption among young people have contributed significantly to higher revenues for the state. According to officials, December marked a milestone, as the department surpassed its revenue target for the first time during that month. While liquor sales were initially projected to generate around Rs 4,500 crore, the actual revenue exceeded expectations, touching approximately Rs 5,100 crore, officials added.

Liquor sales in Telangana soar to INR 13.5 billion during New Year festivities

Liquor sales in Telangana witnessed an extraordinary spike during the New Year period, with officials revealing that nearly Rs 1,000 crore worth of alcohol was sold within just three days. This surge in demand was spread across the state, with data showing a total of Rs 1,350 crore in liquor sales over six days. The figures highlight a strong consumer appetite for alcoholic beverages during this festive season, although district-wise or city-wise breakdowns of sales weren’t shared. Additionally, the volume of liquor sold during the three days was substantial, with 8.3 lakh cases of liquor and 7.78 lakh cases of beer purchased by consumers. Also Read: ‘Is this real’: Indian-American exec’s viral post on loud ‘aunties’ disrupting Vietnam cruise sparks civic sense debate Officials said that this uptick in sales is in line with seasonal trends typically observed during the New Year, though no comparisons were made to previous years, nor were specific revenue projections or enforcement details disclosed. Despite the lack of detailed breakdowns, authorities assured that these numbers reflect the total sales across licensed outlets in the state during the given period. Further insights might be released later, but for now, the data underscores the large-scale consumption of alcohol in Telangana during the New Year festivities. What is driving the sales? Officials also said that recently opened licensed liquor outlets offered a wide range of multi-brand products along with various flavours, giving consumers more choices. This expanded selection is believed to be a key factor behind the sharp rise in liquor sales during the New Year period. They also said that rapidly evolving consumer preferences and a growing inclination toward alcohol consumption among young people have contributed significantly to higher revenues for the state. According to officials, December marked a milestone, as the department surpassed its revenue target for the first time during that month. While liquor sales were initially projected to generate around Rs 4,500 crore, the actual revenue exceeded expectations, touching approximately Rs 5,100 crore, officials added.

Liquor sales in Telangana surged during the New Year, with a total of Rs 1,350 crore in sales over six days. This includes 8.3 lakh cases of liquor and 7.8 lakh beer cases

India is aiming to set up new small nuclear reactors as the South Asian nation moves towards energy self-sufficiency. As part of its decarbonisation push, India aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 while reducing pollution and strengthening energy security. India is actively pursuing small nuclear reactors, including small modular reactors (SMRs), as part of this transition. A key element of this strategy is the development of 220 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)–based Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs), outlined as part of an ambitious plan linked to the SHANTI Bill passed in December. A major shift is the involvement of private players in India’s nuclear energy sector, opening up what is projected to be a $214 billion market. Here is everything you need to know.<h2>What are Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs)?</h2>Bharat Small Reactors are small nuclear reactors whose designs are based on proven 220 MWe PHWR technology developed in India since the 1980s. These reactors can be deployed in remote areas and at industrial sites, replacing coal-fired power units.The reactors are aligned with the Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047 framework of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. BSRs were first announced in August 2023, with the government allocating funds for their development.The design stage for a small modular nuclear reactor was completed by March 2025. Initial sites for BSRs include Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-impressive-contribution-to-energy-needs-russia-to-build-india-s-largest-nuclear-power-plant-in-kudankulam-says-putin-1764929473586">‘Impressive contribution to energy needs’: Russia to build India’s largest nuclear power plant in Kudankulam, says Putin</a><h2>Private participation in developing India's small nuclear reactors</h2>The most significant aspect of the BSR programme is that, unlike in the past, the government is involving private players. &nbsp;The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in December 2024 for the deployment of 220 MWe PHWR-based BSRs. The RFP seeks “visionary Indian industries” to finance, site, and build twin-unit reactors, primarily for captive power use in energy-intensive sectors such as steel, aluminium, and chemicals.The tender is open to Indian companies or consortia with demonstrated financial and technical capability. Criteria include environmental clearances and a commitment to funding construction.NPCIL will provide reactor design, engineering, safety oversight, and operations under a build-own-operate model. Along with the Department of Atomic Energy, NPCIL will also handle fuel supply and waste management.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kudankulam-nuclear-plant-unit-3-in-pre-commissioning-phase-rosatom-1762774335529">Kudankulam Nuclear plant Unit-3 in pre-commissioning phase: Rosatom</a>The original deadline of March 31, 2025 was extended several times and is now March 31, 2026, to broaden participation.At least six major companies have expressed interest, including Reliance Industries, Adani Power, Tata Power, Jindal Steel &amp; Power, JSW Energy, and Hindalco Industries.Industry players have already proposed five sites in Gujarat, four in Madhya Pradesh, three in Odisha, two in Andhra Pradesh, and one each in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.<h2>What is the SHANTI Bill 2025?</h2>The SHANTI Bill, short for the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025, is a landmark reform passed on December 15. It repeals the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, which had restricted nuclear activities to government entities.It also repeals the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, to create a consolidated and modern regulatory framework.&nbsp;Restrictions on private participation had long hindered the growth of India’s nuclear sector, even as the country targets 100 GWe of installed nuclear capacity by 2047.The SHANTI Bill aims to promote sustainable nuclear energy, enhance safety, and attract private and foreign investment for clean energy and energy security.It allows Indian companies, government-private joint ventures, or authorised entities to obtain licences for building, owning, operating, and decommissioning nuclear plants. Foreign-incorporated firms are excluded.The bill is limited to non-sensitive activities such as power generation and equipment manufacturing, while core fuel cycle activities remain restricted.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/japan-earthquake-and-tsunami-what-we-know-about-the-nuclear-power-plants-1765252837054">Japan earthquake and tsunami: What we know about the nuclear power plants</a><h2>Liability framework and regulation under SHANTI Bill</h2>The bill maintains no-fault liability for operators with mandatory insurance and introduces tiered liability caps. It removes automatic operator recourse against suppliers for defects.The overall accident liability ceiling is set at 300 million Special Drawing Rights, aligning with global norms.The bill grants statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board and establishes the Atomic Energy Redressal Advisory Council for appeals, with further recourse to the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-considers-restarting-world-s-largest-nuclear-plant-in-niigata-1766384372138/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-considers-restarting-world-s-largest-nuclear-plant-in-niigata-1766384372138/embed</a><h2>Controversy over the SHANTI Bill</h2>The SHANTI Bill has faced criticism over allegedly lax provisions, particularly the removal of supplier liability, which critics argue favours foreign vendors and weakens accountability in the event of accidents. Proponents of the bill counter that it modernises the sector, boosts innovation, attracts investment, and creates jobs.<h2>India’s nuclear energy future</h2>India aims to reach 100 GWe of nuclear capacity by 2047, which would meet nearly 10 per cent of its projected electricity demand. Interim targets include 22.5 GWe by 2031.The Nuclear Energy Mission, announced in February 2025, plans to have at least five Indian-designed SMRs operational by 2033, primarily utilising India’s three-stage thorium fuel cycle with an emphasis on domestic resources.India is also aiming to partner with France and the US for advanced SMR technologies.

India plans to deploy Bharat Small Reactors, as the SHANTI Bill opens up nuclear power sector to private players. Will it boost clean energy, energy security, and net-zero goals from 2026? Here is all you need to know

India is aiming to set up new small nuclear reactors as the South Asian nation moves towards energy self-sufficiency. As part of its decarbonisation push, India aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 while reducing pollution and strengthening energy security. India is actively pursuing small nuclear reactors, including small modular reactors (SMRs), as part of this transition. A key element of this strategy is the development of 220 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)–based Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs), outlined as part of an ambitious plan linked to the SHANTI Bill passed in December. A major shift is the involvement of private players in India’s nuclear energy sector, opening up what is projected to be a $214 billion market. Here is everything you need to know. What are Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs)? Bharat Small Reactors are small nuclear reactors whose designs are based on proven 220 MWe PHWR technology developed in India since the 1980s. These reactors can be deployed in remote areas and at industrial sites, replacing coal-fired power units. The reactors are aligned with the Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047 framework of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. BSRs were first announced in August 2023, with the government allocating funds for their development. The design stage for a small modular nuclear reactor was completed by March 2025. Initial sites for BSRs include Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Also read: ‘Impressive contribution to energy needs’: Russia to build India’s largest nuclear power plant in Kudankulam, says Putin Private participation in developing India's small nuclear reactors The most significant aspect of the BSR programme is that, unlike in the past, the government is involving private players. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in December 2024 for the deployment of 220 MWe PHWR-based BSRs. The RFP seeks “visionary Indian industries” to finance, site, and build twin-unit reactors, primarily for captive power use in energy-intensive sectors such as steel, aluminium, and chemicals. The tender is open to Indian companies or consortia with demonstrated financial and technical capability. Criteria include environmental clearances and a commitment to funding construction. NPCIL will provide reactor design, engineering, safety oversight, and operations under a build-own-operate model. Along with the Department of Atomic Energy, NPCIL will also handle fuel supply and waste management. Also read: Kudankulam Nuclear plant Unit-3 in pre-commissioning phase: Rosatom The original deadline of March 31, 2025 was extended several times and is now March 31, 2026, to broaden participation. At least six major companies have expressed interest, including Reliance Industries, Adani Power, Tata Power, Jindal Steel & Power, JSW Energy, and Hindalco Industries.Industry players have already proposed five sites in Gujarat, four in Madhya Pradesh, three in Odisha, two in Andhra Pradesh, and one each in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. What is the SHANTI Bill 2025? The SHANTI Bill, short for the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025, is a landmark reform passed on December 15. It repeals the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, which had restricted nuclear activities to government entities. It also repeals the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, to create a consolidated and modern regulatory framework. Restrictions on private participation had long hindered the growth of India’s nuclear sector, even as the country targets 100 GWe of installed nuclear capacity by 2047. The SHANTI Bill aims to promote sustainable nuclear energy, enhance safety, and attract private and foreign investment for clean energy and energy security. It allows Indian companies, government-private joint ventures, or authorised entities to obtain licences for building, owning, operating, and decommissioning nuclear plants. Foreign-incorporated firms are excluded. The bill is limited to non-sensitive activities such as power generation and equipment manufacturing, while core fuel cycle activities remain restricted. Also read: Japan earthquake and tsunami: What we know about the nuclear power plants Liability framework and regulation under SHANTI Bill The bill maintains no-fault liability for operators with mandatory insurance and introduces tiered liability caps. It removes automatic operator recourse against suppliers for defects. The overall accident liability ceiling is set at 300 million Special Drawing Rights, aligning with global norms. The bill grants statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board and establishes the Atomic Energy Redressal Advisory Council for appeals, with further recourse to the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity. https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-considers-restarting-world-s-largest-nuclear-plant-in-niigata-1766384372138/embed Controversy over the SHANTI Bill The SHANTI Bill has faced criticism over allegedly lax provisions, particularly the removal of supplier liability, which critics argue favours foreign vendors and weakens accountability in the event of accidents. Proponents of the bill counter that it modernises the sector, boosts innovation, attracts investment, and creates jobs. India’s nuclear energy future India aims to reach 100 GWe of nuclear capacity by 2047, which would meet nearly 10 per cent of its projected electricity demand. Interim targets include 22.5 GWe by 2031. The Nuclear Energy Mission, announced in February 2025, plans to have at least five Indian-designed SMRs operational by 2033, primarily utilising India’s three-stage thorium fuel cycle with an emphasis on domestic resources. India is also aiming to partner with France and the US for advanced SMR technologies.

India plans to deploy Bharat Small Reactors, as the SHANTI Bill opens up nuclear power sector to private players. Will it boost clean energy, energy security, and net-zero goals from 2026? Here is all you need to know

Will India’s small nuclear reactor ambitions take wing in 2026? BSRs, private participation, SHANTI Bill: What you should know

Mumbai: Maharashtra Police have uncovered a sprawling pan-India kidney trafficking racket, allegedly involving agents, donors, medical professionals and hospitals, with international links to Cambodia. The network came to light during an investigation triggered by a debt-ridden farmer’s shocking complaint.&nbsp;<h2>How the case surfaced</h2>&nbsp;The probe began when Roshan Kule, a dairy farmer from Nagbhid in Chandrapur district, approached police alleging that he had been forced to sell his kidney abroad to repay usurious local loans. Kule, who initially borrowed around one lakh rupees from moneylenders, said that due to exorbitant interest rates, his debt had ballooned to over 70 lakh rupees.&nbsp;&nbsp;Desperate and under pressure, he turned to what he believed was a legitimate kidney donor network he found on social media.&nbsp;Investigators discovered that Kule had travelled to Cambodia, via Kolkata, where his kidney was removed. The complaint and subsequent technical verification of travel documents and statements prompted police to dig deeper into a larger syndicate operating across states.&nbsp;<h2>Alleged racket structure</h2>&nbsp;According to the police, patients seeking kidneys were charged between Rs 50-80 lakh for transplant procedures. “Donors, often economically vulnerable, received only 5-8 lakh rupees, with the rest was distributed among intermediaries, medical professionals, and hospitals,” noted a police official investigating the case.&nbsp;&nbsp;On further investigation, the racket appeared to have been active across multiple states, with victims drawn from poor and indebted communities. Police officials leading the probe have emphasized that the case exposes systemic exploitation—where vulnerable individuals are lured with promises of quick money under the guise of organ donation, only to be left worse off while intermediaries and medical players profit.&nbsp;One of the key accused, Ramakrishna Sanchu, also known as Dr Krishna, is not a qualified surgeon but allegedly acted as an agent, recruiting donors online and arranging their travel to Cambodia for organ removal. He claimed to have once been a donor himself, highlighting the cycle of exploitation within the network. His associate, Himanshu Bharadwaj, who also allegedly sold his own kidney previously, helped organize donors’ journeys and hospital admissions.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Investigation status&nbsp;</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The investigation has revealed networks of moneylenders, social media recruiter pages, fake doctor identities, and cross-border logistics that appear to have facilitated this large organ trafficking syndicate. Police are now scrutinizing bank accounts, medical records, digital footprints, and travel routes to identify additional suspects and victims. “We are also seeking assistance from state and central agencies to map the full extent of the racket across India and possibly beyond. We are also recording statements of people who accompanied donors on their travels, hoping to identify additional layers of the operation,” stated a senior police official.&nbsp;<h2>Doctors and hospitals now under scrutiny</h2>&nbsp;The investigation has now moved from frontline agents to examine alleged involvement by medical professionals. Dr. Ravinder Pal Singh, based in New Delhi, has been arrested in connection with the racket. Dr Rajaratnam Govindswamy, the managing director of Star Kims Hospital in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, is reportedly absconding and being actively sought by investigators.&nbsp;Both doctors’ names emerged from digital and financial evidence gathered by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the Local Crime Branch (LCB) dispatched to multiple states. Authorities believe that illegal transplants were not limited to Cambodia; several operations were also conducted inside India, possibly at facilities connected to the syndicate.&nbsp;During transit remand hearings, a Delhi court granted interim bail to Dr. Singh, directing him to appear in Chandrapur court in early January. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to apprehend Dr. Govindswamy in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Maharashtra SIT is also exploring possible international links and money trails that could extend beyond Cambodia, especially given the cross-border movement of donors and recipients.

The probe into the racket began when Roshan Kule, a dairy farmer from Nagbhid in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, approached the police alleging that he had been forced to sell his kidney abroad to repay usurious local loans.

Mumbai: Maharashtra Police have uncovered a sprawling pan-India kidney trafficking racket, allegedly involving agents, donors, medical professionals and hospitals, with international links to Cambodia. The network came to light during an investigation triggered by a debt-ridden farmer’s shocking complaint. How the case surfaced The probe began when Roshan Kule, a dairy farmer from Nagbhid in Chandrapur district, approached police alleging that he had been forced to sell his kidney abroad to repay usurious local loans. Kule, who initially borrowed around one lakh rupees from moneylenders, said that due to exorbitant interest rates, his debt had ballooned to over 70 lakh rupees. Desperate and under pressure, he turned to what he believed was a legitimate kidney donor network he found on social media. Investigators discovered that Kule had travelled to Cambodia, via Kolkata, where his kidney was removed. The complaint and subsequent technical verification of travel documents and statements prompted police to dig deeper into a larger syndicate operating across states. Alleged racket structure According to the police, patients seeking kidneys were charged between Rs 50-80 lakh for transplant procedures. “Donors, often economically vulnerable, received only 5-8 lakh rupees, with the rest was distributed among intermediaries, medical professionals, and hospitals,” noted a police official investigating the case. On further investigation, the racket appeared to have been active across multiple states, with victims drawn from poor and indebted communities. Police officials leading the probe have emphasized that the case exposes systemic exploitation—where vulnerable individuals are lured with promises of quick money under the guise of organ donation, only to be left worse off while intermediaries and medical players profit. One of the key accused, Ramakrishna Sanchu, also known as Dr Krishna, is not a qualified surgeon but allegedly acted as an agent, recruiting donors online and arranging their travel to Cambodia for organ removal. He claimed to have once been a donor himself, highlighting the cycle of exploitation within the network. His associate, Himanshu Bharadwaj, who also allegedly sold his own kidney previously, helped organize donors’ journeys and hospital admissions. Investigation status The investigation has revealed networks of moneylenders, social media recruiter pages, fake doctor identities, and cross-border logistics that appear to have facilitated this large organ trafficking syndicate. Police are now scrutinizing bank accounts, medical records, digital footprints, and travel routes to identify additional suspects and victims. “We are also seeking assistance from state and central agencies to map the full extent of the racket across India and possibly beyond. We are also recording statements of people who accompanied donors on their travels, hoping to identify additional layers of the operation,” stated a senior police official. Doctors and hospitals now under scrutiny The investigation has now moved from frontline agents to examine alleged involvement by medical professionals. Dr. Ravinder Pal Singh, based in New Delhi, has been arrested in connection with the racket. Dr Rajaratnam Govindswamy, the managing director of Star Kims Hospital in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, is reportedly absconding and being actively sought by investigators. Both doctors’ names emerged from digital and financial evidence gathered by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the Local Crime Branch (LCB) dispatched to multiple states. Authorities believe that illegal transplants were not limited to Cambodia; several operations were also conducted inside India, possibly at facilities connected to the syndicate. During transit remand hearings, a Delhi court granted interim bail to Dr. Singh, directing him to appear in Chandrapur court in early January. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to apprehend Dr. Govindswamy in Tamil Nadu. The Maharashtra SIT is also exploring possible international links and money trails that could extend beyond Cambodia, especially given the cross-border movement of donors and recipients.

The probe into the racket began when Roshan Kule, a dairy farmer from Nagbhid in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, approached the police alleging that he had been forced to sell his kidney abroad to repay usurious local loans.

From Maharashtra to Cambodia: Inside the kidney trafficking ring

In a major step to ensure the safety of people, the government of India on has Proposed amendments for strict criteria on the sale of cough syrups over the counter. The Union government has issued a draft of an important amendment to the Drugs Rules-1945. The Health Ministry has proposed removing the word 'syrup' from Schedule K. This step has been taken to make the drug-related rules clear and effective, so that public interest is protected. Suggestions and objections have been invited from the public within 30 days. "These rules may be called the Drugs (Amendment) Rules, 2025. They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette. In the Drugs Rules, 1945, in Schedule K, in the Serial No. 13, under the column "'Class of Drugs`, in the Entry No. 7, the word "Syrup,'' shall be omitted. " Reads notification issued by the Union Health Ministry The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a draft notification to amend certain rules, seeking objections and suggestions from the public. The government has issued this draft under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940. These proposed changes have been made public after consulting the Drugs Technical Advisory Board. "The following draft of certain rules further to amend the Drugs Rules, 1945, which the Central Government proposes to make, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 12 and sub- section (1) of section 33 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 (23 of 1940), after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board is hereby published for information of all persons likely to be affected thereby, and notice is hereby given that the said draft rules shall be taken into consideration on or after the expiry of a period of thirty days from the date on which the copies of the Gazette of India containing these draft rules are made available to the public. Objections and suggestions which may be received from any person within the period specified above will be considered by the Central Government." Recently, the World Health Organisation in October 2025 also issued an alert after several deaths of children and serious side effects linked to Coldrif cough syrup manufactured by Tamil Nadu based Sresan Pharmaceuticals. According to Dr. Atul Kakar, Chairperson, Medicine, Sir Gangaram Hospital, “Recently, the word syrup which contains many of these syrups which are cough syrup have been banned by the government and in the month of October we did see lots of deaths happening in children in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh because of the cough syrup because they contained some substance which were poisonous. Also, I feel that the medicine should not be prescribed by the chemist and there should not be much excess of the drugs given by the chemist, so let's not limit ourselves to the syrups only, other medicines also should not be prescribed, and the government should be very strict in cutting down the medicines which are given by the chemist themselves.” "Removing syrups from the OTC exemption list is a timely and much-needed step. Liquid formulations are widely used in children, but they are also the most commonly misused--often given without correct dosing, age-appropriate indication, or medical supervision. Making syrups prescription-only will help curb self-medication, prevent dosing errors, and reduce unnecessary exposure to antibiotics, cough suppressants, and steroids. Ultimately, this move strengthens patient safety, especially for children, who are far more vulnerable to medication misuse." Said Dr Vivek Jain, Senior Director &amp; Unit Head, Paediatrics, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Union government has issued a draft of an important amendment to the Drugs Rules-1945. The Health Ministry has proposed removing the word 'syrup' from Schedule K. 

In a major step to ensure the safety of people, the government of India on has Proposed amendments for strict criteria on the sale of cough syrups over the counter. The Union government has issued a draft of an important amendment to the Drugs Rules-1945. The Health Ministry has proposed removing the word 'syrup' from Schedule K. This step has been taken to make the drug-related rules clear and effective, so that public interest is protected. Suggestions and objections have been invited from the public within 30 days. "These rules may be called the Drugs (Amendment) Rules, 2025. They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette. In the Drugs Rules, 1945, in Schedule K, in the Serial No. 13, under the column "'Class of Drugs`, in the Entry No. 7, the word "Syrup,'' shall be omitted. " Reads notification issued by the Union Health Ministry The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a draft notification to amend certain rules, seeking objections and suggestions from the public. The government has issued this draft under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940. These proposed changes have been made public after consulting the Drugs Technical Advisory Board. "The following draft of certain rules further to amend the Drugs Rules, 1945, which the Central Government proposes to make, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 12 and sub- section (1) of section 33 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 (23 of 1940), after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board is hereby published for information of all persons likely to be affected thereby, and notice is hereby given that the said draft rules shall be taken into consideration on or after the expiry of a period of thirty days from the date on which the copies of the Gazette of India containing these draft rules are made available to the public. Objections and suggestions which may be received from any person within the period specified above will be considered by the Central Government." Recently, the World Health Organisation in October 2025 also issued an alert after several deaths of children and serious side effects linked to Coldrif cough syrup manufactured by Tamil Nadu based Sresan Pharmaceuticals. According to Dr. Atul Kakar, Chairperson, Medicine, Sir Gangaram Hospital, “Recently, the word syrup which contains many of these syrups which are cough syrup have been banned by the government and in the month of October we did see lots of deaths happening in children in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh because of the cough syrup because they contained some substance which were poisonous. Also, I feel that the medicine should not be prescribed by the chemist and there should not be much excess of the drugs given by the chemist, so let's not limit ourselves to the syrups only, other medicines also should not be prescribed, and the government should be very strict in cutting down the medicines which are given by the chemist themselves.” "Removing syrups from the OTC exemption list is a timely and much-needed step. Liquid formulations are widely used in children, but they are also the most commonly misused--often given without correct dosing, age-appropriate indication, or medical supervision. Making syrups prescription-only will help curb self-medication, prevent dosing errors, and reduce unnecessary exposure to antibiotics, cough suppressants, and steroids. Ultimately, this move strengthens patient safety, especially for children, who are far more vulnerable to medication misuse." Said Dr Vivek Jain, Senior Director & Unit Head, Paediatrics, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi.

The Union government has issued a draft of an important amendment to the Drugs Rules-1945. The Health Ministry has proposed removing the word 'syrup' from Schedule K.&nbsp;

India proposes stricter Drugs Rules to restrict over the counter sale of cough syrups

Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya lost his cool on a reporter as he was asking him questions about the situation around the contaminated water-related death in Indore’s Bhagirathpura area. He was seen as dismissive towards the reporter and told him, “...Don’t ask unnecessary questions.” Indore, which is considered the cleanest city in India, has seen the death of 10 individuals due to drinking water contamination.The reporter merely asked that a lot of people have still not received the reimbursement, and they still do not have clean drinking water. The Minister responded harshly at first when he persisted that he had himself visited the locality. The senior BJP leader lost his temper and aggressively walked off after using abusive language. He tried to reason with the MP, “ Kailash ji, please speak properly, what sort of words are you using, you're a senior leader. How can you speak such foul words?” The minister paced inside his vehicle. Someone from his entourage tried to stop the reporter, saying, “He is our leader.” The reporter continued, "So what, this doesn't permit using slang, 10 people have died already."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">देश के सबसे साफ शहर में गंदा पानी पीने से 10 से ज्यादा लोगों की मौत हो चुकी है जिस शख्स पर लोगों को साफ पानी पिलाने का जिम्मा है वो सवालों को फोकट बता रहे हैं हमारे सवालों को &quot;घंटे&quot; में उड़ा रहे हैं <a href="https://twitter.com/manishdekoder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manishdekoder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GargiRawat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GargiRawat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Abhinav_Pan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Abhinav_Pan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sanket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sanket</a> <a href="https://t.co/5iIF2AiFZ7">pic.twitter.com/5iIF2AiFZ7</a>&mdash; Anurag Dwary (@Anurag_Dwary) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anurag_Dwary/status/2006401457512452457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">मैं और मेरी टीम पिछले दो दिनों से बिना सोए प्रभावित क्षेत्र में लगातार स्थिति सुधारने में जुटी हुई है। दूषित पानी से मेरे लोग पीड़ित हैं और कुछ हमें छोड़कर चले गए, इस गहरे दु:ख की अवस्था में मीडिया के एक प्रश्न पर मेरे शब्द गलत निकल गए। इसके लिए मैं खेद प्रकट करता हूँ। लेकिन जब…&mdash; Kailash Vijayvargiya (@KailashOnline) <a href="https://twitter.com/KailashOnline/status/2006426641413902681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

However, following the backlash, the BJP MP apologised on social media, saying that he lost his temper under the stress of the situation and sorrow over the death.“My people are suffering from contaminated water, and some have left us; in this state of deep sorrow, my words came out wrong in response to a media question. For this, I express my regret. But until my people are completely safe and healthy, I will not sit quietly,” he wrote.The video of the exchange went viral on social media. People came out in support of the reporter: “Kudos to the reporter, may your tribe grow, especially in today’s India.” Another sarcastically commented, “Biggest irony is, wherever the next election will happen, the voters will vote for the same politician again.”The Madhya Pradesh High Court took suo motu cognisance and sought a report from the government. An official was sacked, and two others suspended in connection with water contamination. Residents blamed the municipal corporation’s inaction for the deaths.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MP minister Kailash Vijayvargiya loses temper over reporters' questions on Indore contaminated water deaths; officials suspended, public outrage follows.

Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya lost his cool on a reporter as he was asking him questions about the situation around the contaminated water-related death in Indore’s Bhagirathpura area. He was seen as dismissive towards the reporter and told him, “...Don’t ask unnecessary questions.” Indore, which is considered the cleanest city in India, has seen the death of 10 individuals due to drinking water contamination. The reporter merely asked that a lot of people have still not received the reimbursement, and they still do not have clean drinking water. The Minister responded harshly at first when he persisted that he had himself visited the locality. The senior BJP leader lost his temper and aggressively walked off after using abusive language. He tried to reason with the MP, “ Kailash ji, please speak properly, what sort of words are you using, you're a senior leader. How can you speak such foul words?” The minister paced inside his vehicle. Someone from his entourage tried to stop the reporter, saying, “He is our leader.” The reporter continued, "So what, this doesn't permit using slang, 10 people have died already."

MP minister Kailash Vijayvargiya loses temper over reporters' questions on Indore contaminated water deaths; officials suspended, public outrage follows.

Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya snaps at media over Indore contaminated water deaths question

Air India cockpit crew has received a show-cause notice by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation for &nbsp;operating multiple flights between Delhi and Tokyo despite being aware of serious safety and compliance lapses. The DGCA notice pertains to flights AI-358 and AI-357 and Minimum Equipment List (MEL) compliance, and flight crew decision-making.&nbsp;"Whereas, it has been observed that M/s Air India Limited, during the operation of Flight AI-358 (and related operations of AI-357), serious safety concerns arose pertaining to aircraft dispatch, Minimum Equipment List (MEL) compliance, and flight crew decision-making," read the notice.&nbsp;The notice also said that similar issues had been detected on other sectors in the past and it can not not be ruled out as an isolated incident.&nbsp;"Whereas, during the operation of Flight AI-358, the operating crew received PACK ACM L and Pack Mode advisories. And a smell of smoke was reported near the R2 door. Whereas repetitive snags related to the same systems had been recorded on five previous sectors, indicating a known history of system degradation," the notice further read.&nbsp;

The notice also said that similar issues had been detected on other sectors in the past and it can not not be ruled out as an isolated incident. 

Air India cockpit crew has received a show-cause notice by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation for operating multiple flights between Delhi and Tokyo despite being aware of serious safety and compliance lapses. The DGCA notice pertains to flights AI-358 and AI-357 and Minimum Equipment List (MEL) compliance, and flight crew decision-making. "Whereas, it has been observed that M/s Air India Limited, during the operation of Flight AI-358 (and related operations of AI-357), serious safety concerns arose pertaining to aircraft dispatch, Minimum Equipment List (MEL) compliance, and flight crew decision-making," read the notice. The notice also said that similar issues had been detected on other sectors in the past and it can not not be ruled out as an isolated incident. "Whereas, during the operation of Flight AI-358, the operating crew received PACK ACM L and Pack Mode advisories. And a smell of smoke was reported near the R2 door. Whereas repetitive snags related to the same systems had been recorded on five previous sectors, indicating a known history of system degradation," the notice further read.

The notice also said that similar issues had been detected on other sectors in the past and it can not not be ruled out as an isolated incident.

Air India cockpit crew served notice by DGCA for ignoring safety protocols

The Indian government's Ministry of Finance has notified a major revision in excise duty on cigarettes and tobacco products, effective February 1, 2026. According to the notification issued on Wednesday (Dec 31), the government has imposed additional excise duty on cigarettes in the range of Rs 2,050 to Rs 8,500 per 1,000 sticks, depending on the length and type of the product. After this, cigarettes and other tobacco products are set to become significantly more expensive from February 1, 2026. The duty will be levied over and above the existing 40 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on tobacco and similar product.&nbsp; &nbsp;This duty raise comes after the Parliament passed a Bill aimed at increasing excise duty on tobacco products and their manufacturing. The higher duties is expected to translate into sharp price increases, particularly for longer and filter cigarettes, as manufacturers pass on the additional tax costs to consumers. The basic excise duty on cigarettes had remained unchanged for nearly seven years.&nbsp;The Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, passed by the Parliament, aimed at revising excise duties on tobacco and related products after the expiry of the GST compensation cess. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said that the revenue collected will go to the divisible pool, and will be redistributed again (at the 41%) with the States. "Many members here made the comment that this is a cess. Excise is not a cess. Excise duty existed before GST. Compensation cess is reverting back to the Centre to be collected as Excise duty, which will be redistributed to the States at the 41% allocated," she had said in the parliament.&nbsp;Meanwhile, prices of smokeless tobacco products are also expected to rise following the introduction of a machine-capacity-based excise levy. Chewing tobacco, jarda scented tobacco and gutkha will now be taxed based on the number, speed and output capacity of packing machines, as well as the retail sale price of the product, under the newly notified Packing Machines Rules, 2026. All changes will come into effect from February 1, 2026, giving manufacturers and distributors a limited transition period to recalibrate prices, update compliance systems and adjust production plans ahead of the expected price hikes.&nbsp;<h2>What exactly will your cigarette cost?</h2>In simple terms, once the new tax rules come into effect, a cigarette will become costlier due to higher taxes. With GST fixed at 40 per cent, the price of a cigarette that earlier cost ₹18 would first rise to around ₹19.70. On top of this, the government will levy an additional excise duty. Even if this excise duty is kept modest, at about ₹1–₹2 per cigarette, the final retail price would increase further. As a result, one cigarette is likely to cost roughly between ₹21 and ₹22 after February 1.&nbsp;<ul><li>GST: 40 per cent</li><li>Additional excise duty (exact rate not notified yet)</li><li>Adding a modest excise duty (typical range ₹1–₹2 per stick)</li><li>₹19.70 + ₹1.50 (average excise)= ₹21–₹22 per cigarette</li></ul> &nbsp;

Cigarettes and tobacco products will become costlier from February 1, 2026, after the Centre notified higher excise duties alongside 40% GST. The move, replacing the compensation cess, may push a cigarette priced at ₹18 to around ₹21–₹22, with sharper hikes for longer and filter cigarettes.

The Indian government's Ministry of Finance has notified a major revision in excise duty on cigarettes and tobacco products, effective February 1, 2026. According to the notification issued on Wednesday (Dec 31), the government has imposed additional excise duty on cigarettes in the range of Rs 2,050 to Rs 8,500 per 1,000 sticks, depending on the length and type of the product. After this, cigarettes and other tobacco products are set to become significantly more expensive from February 1, 2026. The duty will be levied over and above the existing 40 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on tobacco and similar product. This duty raise comes after the Parliament passed a Bill aimed at increasing excise duty on tobacco products and their manufacturing. The higher duties is expected to translate into sharp price increases, particularly for longer and filter cigarettes, as manufacturers pass on the additional tax costs to consumers. The basic excise duty on cigarettes had remained unchanged for nearly seven years. The Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, passed by the Parliament, aimed at revising excise duties on tobacco and related products after the expiry of the GST compensation cess. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said that the revenue collected will go to the divisible pool, and will be redistributed again (at the 41%) with the States. "Many members here made the comment that this is a cess. Excise is not a cess. Excise duty existed before GST. Compensation cess is reverting back to the Centre to be collected as Excise duty, which will be redistributed to the States at the 41% allocated," she had said in the parliament. Meanwhile, prices of smokeless tobacco products are also expected to rise following the introduction of a machine-capacity-based excise levy. Chewing tobacco, jarda scented tobacco and gutkha will now be taxed based on the number, speed and output capacity of packing machines, as well as the retail sale price of the product, under the newly notified Packing Machines Rules, 2026. All changes will come into effect from February 1, 2026, giving manufacturers and distributors a limited transition period to recalibrate prices, update compliance systems and adjust production plans ahead of the expected price hikes. What exactly will your cigarette cost? In simple terms, once the new tax rules come into effect, a cigarette will become costlier due to higher taxes. With GST fixed at 40 per cent, the price of a cigarette that earlier cost ₹18 would first rise to around ₹19.70. On top of this, the government will levy an additional excise duty. Even if this excise duty is kept modest, at about ₹1–₹2 per cigarette, the final retail price would increase further. As a result, one cigarette is likely to cost roughly between ₹21 and ₹22 after February 1. GST: 40 per cent Additional excise duty (exact rate not notified yet) Adding a modest excise duty (typical range ₹1–₹2 per stick) ₹19.70 + ₹1.50 (average excise)= ₹21–₹22 per cigarette

Cigarettes and tobacco products will become costlier from February 1, 2026, after the Centre notified higher excise duties alongside 40 per cent GST. The move, replacing the compensation cess, may push a cigarette priced at ₹18 to around ₹21–₹22, with sharper hikes

How much will your cigarette cost from Feb 1? Beedi, pan masala to get costlier as Centre imposes new excise duty, cess

It is the very first day of 2026, and the entire Kashmir Valley is filled with cheer as thousands of tourists ushered in the New Year across different parts of the region. Popular destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg witnessed an overwhelming influx of visitors, while Srinagar too was abuzz with tourists, reflecting the festive spirit throughout the Valley. &nbsp;&nbsp;Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake came alive as hundreds of shikaras, carrying tourists from across the country and around the world, glided across its waters. After a prolonged lull since April 2025, the long-missing buzz has finally returned, signalling that the tourism industry is back on track.&nbsp;The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has been continuously organising multiple celebrations and cultural events across key tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg to attract more visitors to the Kashmir Valley. Several visitors remarked that they had never witnessed a place as breathtakingly beautiful as Kashmir Valley, highlighting the destination’s unmatched charm and growing appeal.&nbsp;“We are truly enjoying our time in the Kashmir Valley. We visited Gulmarg yesterday, and today we are on Srinagar’s Dal Lake, it’s absolutely beautiful. The weather is wonderful, the people are incredibly friendly, and we feel completely safe here. They treat you like family, and we can even move around freely at night.” said Arjun Ram, Tourist.&nbsp;&nbsp;The tourists enjoying the beauty of Dal Lake on the very first day of the new year were mesmerised by the winter wonderland. &nbsp;“We had expected to see fewer tourists here, but to our surprise, the experience has been wonderful. The facilities provided by the government and tourism stakeholders are excellent, and the support we received has been remarkable. The hospitality here is unmatched, I truly love Kashmir. We travelled to many places and were delighted throughout our visit. As we step into the New Year, we only wish for peace for our country.” &nbsp;said Salim Khan, Tourist.&nbsp;&nbsp;Local tourism stakeholders have expressed immense happiness over the recent surge in tourist arrivals, marking a long-awaited revival after months of subdued activity. The renewed influx of visitors has brought fresh optimism, with stakeholder's hopeful that the New Year will set new benchmarks for tourist footfall in the Kashmir Valley. Many believe that 2026 could surpass all previous tourism records.

Kashmir Valley welcomed 2026 with massive tourist footfall as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Srinagar buzzed with celebrations. Dal Lake shikaras, cultural events and warm hospitality marked a strong tourism revival after months, raising hopes of record arrivals this year.

It is the very first day of 2026, and the entire Kashmir Valley is filled with cheer as thousands of tourists ushered in the New Year across different parts of the region. Popular destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg witnessed an overwhelming influx of visitors, while Srinagar too was abuzz with tourists, reflecting the festive spirit throughout the Valley. Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake came alive as hundreds of shikaras, carrying tourists from across the country and around the world, glided across its waters. After a prolonged lull since April 2025, the long-missing buzz has finally returned, signalling that the tourism industry is back on track. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has been continuously organising multiple celebrations and cultural events across key tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg to attract more visitors to the Kashmir Valley. Several visitors remarked that they had never witnessed a place as breathtakingly beautiful as Kashmir Valley, highlighting the destination’s unmatched charm and growing appeal. “We are truly enjoying our time in the Kashmir Valley. We visited Gulmarg yesterday, and today we are on Srinagar’s Dal Lake, it’s absolutely beautiful. The weather is wonderful, the people are incredibly friendly, and we feel completely safe here. They treat you like family, and we can even move around freely at night.” said Arjun Ram, Tourist. The tourists enjoying the beauty of Dal Lake on the very first day of the new year were mesmerised by the winter wonderland. “We had expected to see fewer tourists here, but to our surprise, the experience has been wonderful. The facilities provided by the government and tourism stakeholders are excellent, and the support we received has been remarkable. The hospitality here is unmatched, I truly love Kashmir. We travelled to many places and were delighted throughout our visit. As we step into the New Year, we only wish for peace for our country.” said Salim Khan, Tourist. Local tourism stakeholders have expressed immense happiness over the recent surge in tourist arrivals, marking a long-awaited revival after months of subdued activity. The renewed influx of visitors has brought fresh optimism, with stakeholder's hopeful that the New Year will set new benchmarks for tourist footfall in the Kashmir Valley. Many believe that 2026 could surpass all previous tourism records.

Kashmir Valley welcomed 2026 with massive tourist footfall as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Srinagar buzzed with celebrations. Dal Lake shikaras, cultural events and warm hospitality marked a strong tourism revival after months, raising hopes of record arrivals this year.

Kashmir valley welcomes 2026 with surge in tourists, renewed optimism

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has called for social harmony, urging people to look beyond divisions of caste, wealth, language and region. Bhagwat made the statement at a ‘Hindu Sammelan’ in Sonpairi village of Chhattisgarh’s Raipur district. “The entire country belongs to everyone, and this spirit is true social harmony," he said.&nbsp;The appeal from Bhagwat comes amid the murder of Tripura's Anjel Chakma in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Chakma, an MBA student was murdered after he objected to locals using racial slurs – including calling his brother Michael and him 'Chinese momo'.&nbsp;Amid the appeal of social harmony, Bhagwat also urged the use of mothertounge more frequently for social cohesion.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-vows-to-defend-national-sovereignty-after-xi-jinping-s-unification-call-china-hits-back-1767242852685">Taiwan vows to defend 'national sovereignty' after Xi Jinping's unification call; China hits back</a>&nbsp;“At least inside our houses, we should speak in our mother tongue. If you live in another state or region, you should learn the language of that state or region because all languages are India’s national languages. They all have equal weightage," said Bhagwat.&nbsp;He also appealed people to not judge anybody based on their caste, financial status, language or place of origin.&nbsp;“The entire country belongs to everyone, and this spirit is true social harmony," Bhagwat said.<h2>Anjel Chakma murder case</h2>Chakma, a native of Machmara in Unakoti district of Tripura, had gone to Dehradun after completing his graduation from Holy Cross School, Agartala, to pursue an MBA. Unfortunately, he was stabbed in front of his younger brother, Michael.&nbsp;Anjel was set to begin his career with a placement offer after completing his final semester, thanks to his impressive 80% marks in his first year. He had even encouraged his father, Tarun Prasad Chakma, a BSF jawan stationed in Manipur, to take early retirement once Anjel secured a job.&nbsp;The family of Anjel Chakma, has called for the harshest punishment for those involved in the murder.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Amid the appeal of social harmony, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat also urged the use of mothertounge more frequently for social cohesion.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has called for social harmony, urging people to look beyond divisions of caste, wealth, language and region. Bhagwat made the statement at a ‘Hindu Sammelan’ in Sonpairi village of Chhattisgarh’s Raipur district. “The entire country belongs to everyone, and this spirit is true social harmony," he said. The appeal from Bhagwat comes amid the murder of Tripura's Anjel Chakma in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Chakma, an MBA student was murdered after he objected to locals using racial slurs – including calling his brother Michael and him 'Chinese momo'. Amid the appeal of social harmony, Bhagwat also urged the use of mothertounge more frequently for social cohesion. ALSO READ: Taiwan vows to defend 'national sovereignty' after Xi Jinping's unification call; China hits back “At least inside our houses, we should speak in our mother tongue. If you live in another state or region, you should learn the language of that state or region because all languages are India’s national languages. They all have equal weightage," said Bhagwat. He also appealed people to not judge anybody based on their caste, financial status, language or place of origin. “The entire country belongs to everyone, and this spirit is true social harmony," Bhagwat said. Anjel Chakma murder case Chakma, a native of Machmara in Unakoti district of Tripura, had gone to Dehradun after completing his graduation from Holy Cross School, Agartala, to pursue an MBA. Unfortunately, he was stabbed in front of his younger brother, Michael. Anjel was set to begin his career with a placement offer after completing his final semester, thanks to his impressive 80% marks in his first year. He had even encouraged his father, Tarun Prasad Chakma, a BSF jawan stationed in Manipur, to take early retirement once Anjel secured a job. The family of Anjel Chakma, has called for the harshest punishment for those involved in the murder.

Amid the appeal of social harmony, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat also urged the use of mothertounge more frequently for social cohesion.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat calls for social harmony amid Tripura man Anjel Chakma's murder in Dehradun

Mumbaikars were taken by surprise by unseasonal rain on the eve of the New Year 2026, as showers greeted several parts of the country's financial capital on Thursday morning. The rains started before 6 am with more intensity in several areas, while many places experienced drizzle, and the intensity gradually declined after 6.15 am, as per news agency PTI.&nbsp;Areas including Colaba, Byculla, Lower Parel and Dadar experienced a monsoon-like situation for nearly half an hour. A fall in visibility was reported along major stretches, including the Coastal Road and the Eastern Freeway, soon after the rain clouds hovered over the city.&nbsp;Suburban areas, stretching from Bandra to Dahisar and Kurla to Mulund, witnessed scattered light showers along with continuous drizzling. Wet roads and overcast skies marked the morning, while cool northerly winds pushed temperatures down to nearly 16 degrees Celsius, lending a wintry touch to the city.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Light showers of rain bring down pollution levels in Mumbai. Visuals from Lower Parel. <a href="https://t.co/RWIeJzFYev">pic.twitter.com/RWIeJzFYev</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2006536170214445540?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>The rain improved the air quality of Mumbai</h3>Mumbai has been experiencing a cool spell for the past few days. On Thursday, maximum temperatures remained below 30 degrees Celsius, with Santacruz recording 29.5 degrees and Colaba 29.4 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;The IMD indicated the fall in temperatures to northerly winds and an anticyclonic circulation, which prompted cooler air to move into the region. In addition, slow-moving wind in recent days had also led dust particles to hover over the city, affecting visibility until the rain came.&nbsp;The rainfall helped wash away suspended dust particles, resulting in better air quality. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) improved to 122, categorised as ‘moderate’. Until Wednesday, the city’s AQI had remained around 135.&nbsp;Meanwhile, social media users responded to the unexpected weather. "Now who would have thought that it's going to rain on the very first day of 2026," wrote a user X. Another wrote, "#MumbaiRains welcoming 2026 with unseasonal showers. Beautiful weather nevertheless." Several residents stated that the unseasonal rains made the weather pleasant in the city.

Areas including Colaba, Byculla, Lower Parel and Dadar experienced a monsoon-like situation for nearly half an hour. A fall in visibility was reported along major stretches, including the Coastal Road and the Eastern Freeway, soon after the rain clouds hovered over the city.

Mumbaikars were taken by surprise by unseasonal rain on the eve of the New Year 2026, as showers greeted several parts of the country's financial capital on Thursday morning. The rains started before 6 am with more intensity in several areas, while many places experienced drizzle, and the intensity gradually declined after 6.15 am, as per news agency PTI. Areas including Colaba, Byculla, Lower Parel and Dadar experienced a monsoon-like situation for nearly half an hour. A fall in visibility was reported along major stretches, including the Coastal Road and the Eastern Freeway, soon after the rain clouds hovered over the city. Suburban areas, stretching from Bandra to Dahisar and Kurla to Mulund, witnessed scattered light showers along with continuous drizzling. Wet roads and overcast skies marked the morning, while cool northerly winds pushed temperatures down to nearly 16 degrees Celsius, lending a wintry touch to the city.

Areas including Colaba, Byculla, Lower Parel and Dadar experienced a monsoon-like situation for nearly half an hour. A fall in visibility was reported along major stretches, including the Coastal Road and the Eastern Freeway, soon after the rain clouds hovered over the city.

WATCH: Unseasonal rain welcomes 2026 in Mumbai, brings cooler weather and cleaner air

Delhi witnessed its coldest December day in six years on Wednesday, with 2025 ending on a sharp chill as the maximum temperature dropped to 14.2 degrees Celsius. As per data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city last saw a lower daytime temperature on December 31, 2019, when the maximum plunged to 9.4 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;The IMD said the maximum temperature on Wednesday was 14.2 degrees Celsius, around 6.2 degrees below normal and the lowest recorded this season. The minimum temperature stood at 6.4 degrees Celsius, about 0.4 degrees below the seasonal average.<h3>Third-lowest was on December 21</h3>Earlier this month, the second-lowest maximum temperature was recorded on December 20 at 16.9 degrees Celsius, followed by December 19. The third-lowest was on December 21, when the maximum temperature reached 18.1 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;"A cold day is declared when the minimum temperature falls below 10 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature remains about 4.5 degrees Celsius below normal," an IMD official said, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;"Cold day conditions are expected to continue on New Year's Day as well. There is a slight chance of very light and isolated rain over Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) between Wednesday night and Thursday due to an induced cyclonic circulation over Punjab and Haryana," said Mahesh Palawat of Skymet.&nbsp;He added that colder conditions may develop from January 3 onwards as minimum temperatures could drop further, with cold northerly winds from the Himalayan region likely to travel towards the national capital. The weather office also said that shallow fog was witnessed in parts of the city during the evening hours. Meanwhile, Palam experienced visibility of nearly 600 metres, while Safdarjung reported visibility of about 800 metres between 8.30 pm and 9 pm, according to the IMD.&nbsp;

The IMD said the maximum temperature on Wednesday was 14.2 degrees Celsius, around 6.2 degrees below normal and the lowest recorded this season. The minimum temperature stood at 6.4 degrees Celsius, about 0.4 degrees below the seasonal average.

Delhi witnessed its coldest December day in six years on Wednesday, with 2025 ending on a sharp chill as the maximum temperature dropped to 14.2 degrees Celsius. As per data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city last saw a lower daytime temperature on December 31, 2019, when the maximum plunged to 9.4 degrees Celsius. The IMD said the maximum temperature on Wednesday was 14.2 degrees Celsius, around 6.2 degrees below normal and the lowest recorded this season. The minimum temperature stood at 6.4 degrees Celsius, about 0.4 degrees below the seasonal average. Third-lowest was on December 21 Earlier this month, the second-lowest maximum temperature was recorded on December 20 at 16.9 degrees Celsius, followed by December 19. The third-lowest was on December 21, when the maximum temperature reached 18.1 degrees Celsius. "A cold day is declared when the minimum temperature falls below 10 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature remains about 4.5 degrees Celsius below normal," an IMD official said, news agency PTI reported. "Cold day conditions are expected to continue on New Year's Day as well. There is a slight chance of very light and isolated rain over Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) between Wednesday night and Thursday due to an induced cyclonic circulation over Punjab and Haryana," said Mahesh Palawat of Skymet. He added that colder conditions may develop from January 3 onwards as minimum temperatures could drop further, with cold northerly winds from the Himalayan region likely to travel towards the national capital. The weather office also said that shallow fog was witnessed in parts of the city during the evening hours. Meanwhile, Palam experienced visibility of nearly 600 metres, while Safdarjung reported visibility of about 800 metres between 8.30 pm and 9 pm, according to the IMD.

The IMD said the maximum temperature on Wednesday was 14.2 degrees Celsius, around 6.2 degrees below normal and the lowest recorded this season. The minimum temperature stood at 6.4 degrees Celsius, about 0.4 degrees below the seasonal average.

Delhi ends 2025 on freezing note with coldest December day in six years

Stacks of cash amounting to a total of more than Rs 5 crore, a suitcase full of gold and diamond jewellery worth Rs 8.8 crore, and a bag full of cheque books and documents of properties worth Rs 35 crore were recovered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a raid at a house in Delhi. The premises were linked to one Aman Kumar, an associate of Rao Inderjeet Yadav, who has been under the radar of the central agency.&nbsp;Rao Inderjit Singh Yadav, who flaunts a lavish lifestyle featuring fleets of luxury cars and private jets on his social media handles, is being hunted by the Enforcement Directorate and the Haryana Police. His Instagram is full of photos alongside celebrities, but police files categorise him as a gangster, and ED records label him an economic offender.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Enforcement Directorate has seized Rs 5.12 crores; one suitcase full of Jewellery (both gold and diamond jewellery) worth Rs 8.80 crores; one bag full of cheque books, documents pertaining to properties worth Rs 35 crores during a search operation conducted on December 30 at… <a href="https://t.co/PddnI1MiIa">pic.twitter.com/PddnI1MiIa</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2006302800066814289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</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/xi-jinping-vows-to-reunify-china-and-taiwan-urges-for-growth-in-new-year-s-eve-speech-1767193882182">Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech</a>&nbsp;The agency has been raiding multiple locations in Delhi, Gurugram, and Rohtak in connection with a money laundering case against Yadav, who is alleged to have fled to the UAE.&nbsp;The visuals of the ED search at the home in Delhi’s Sarvpriya Vihar showed piles of cash and jewellery laid out on a bed by investigators. Bank staff was summoned with counting machines to count the large volume of currency recovered at the site.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-and-burkina-faso-retaliate-to-trump-s-action-ban-entry-for-us-citizens-1767187487091">Mali and Burkina Faso retaliate to Trump’s action, ban entry for US citizens</a>&nbsp;The searches are part of a broader investigation against Yadav and his accomplices, Apollo Green Energy Ltd,. and other associated entities. The group is accused of extortion, coercive loan settlements involving private financiers, armed intimidation, and earning commissions from illegal activities.&nbsp;The ED initiated the investigation based on more than 15 FIRs and chargesheets filed by the Haryana and Uttar Pradesh Police under various sections of the Arms Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drdo-successfully-conducts-salvo-launch-of-indigenously-developed-pralay-missiles-off-odisha-coast-1767182736639">DRDO successfully conducts salvo launch of indigenously developed Pralay missiles off Odisha coast</a>&nbsp;The FIRs allege that Yadav, the owner and key controller of Gem Records Entertainment Pvt Ltd (operating as ‘Gems Tunes’), is involved in a wide range of criminal activities, including murder, extortion, fraud, cheating, illegal land grabbing, and violent offences.

The ED initiated the investigation based on more than 15 FIRs and chargesheets filed by the Haryana and Uttar Pradesh Police under various sections of the Arms Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). 

Stacks of cash amounting to a total of more than Rs 5 crore, a suitcase full of gold and diamond jewellery worth Rs 8.8 crore, and a bag full of cheque books and documents of properties worth Rs 35 crore were recovered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a raid at a house in Delhi. The premises were linked to one Aman Kumar, an associate of Rao Inderjeet Yadav, who has been under the radar of the central agency. Rao Inderjit Singh Yadav, who flaunts a lavish lifestyle featuring fleets of luxury cars and private jets on his social media handles, is being hunted by the Enforcement Directorate and the Haryana Police. His Instagram is full of photos alongside celebrities, but police files categorise him as a gangster, and ED records label him an economic offender.

The ED initiated the investigation based on more than 15 FIRs and chargesheets filed by the Haryana and Uttar Pradesh Police under various sections of the Arms Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).&nbsp;

ED seizes Rs 5 crore cash, Rs 8.8 crore jewellery, properties worth Rs 35 crore in raid at Delhi house

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board suspended the registration for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage on Wednesday following a heavy rush and overwhelming surge of devotees on the occasion of New Year. According to officials, the registration counters have been closed until Thursday morning, as the crowd hit its peak at the Katra base camp and along the trekking route to the Bhawan.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Mata Vaishno Devi shrine has been witnessing exceptionally high footfall since Monday night as thousands of pilgrims arrived to offer prayers and seek blessings for the New Year. Despite dense fog and chilly conditions, pilgrims were seen undertaking the yatra with enthusiasm.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-vows-to-reunify-china-and-taiwan-urges-for-growth-in-new-year-s-eve-speech-1767193882182">Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech</a>&nbsp;The shrine board authorities decided to stop new registrations to ensure smooth crowd management, safety of visitors, and uninterrupted arrangements at the holy site.&nbsp;Officials also appealed to pilgrims travelling with children and the elderly to delay their journey, as long wait times and extended walking duration on the route may cause inconvenience.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-and-burkina-faso-retaliate-to-trump-s-action-ban-entry-for-us-citizens-1767187487091">Mali and Burkina Faso retaliate to Trump’s action, ban entry for US citizens</a>&nbsp;The shrine board has also increased deployment of security, health staff, and sanitation teams to handle the massive influx. They have also installed barricades at key points along the track and stepped up monitoring at the Bhawan, Ardhkuwari, and Sanjichhat areas. Arrangements for medical assistance have been made for emergency cases.&nbsp;The Vaishno Devi shrine attracts lakhs of devotees every year and is among the most visited pilgrimages in the country. Like other shrines, it also records one of the highest annual rushes in the New Year period.The Shrine Board emphasized that the temporary halt is a precautionary step to maintain safety and an orderly ‘darshan’ and spiritual experience for the pilgrims.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drdo-successfully-conducts-salvo-launch-of-indigenously-developed-pralay-missiles-off-odisha-coast-1767182736639">DRDO successfully conducts salvo launch of indigenously developed Pralay missiles off Odisha coast</a>&nbsp;Authorities said the registrations will start after Thursday morning, subject to crowd conditions. They said a formal announcement will be made online once the situation normalises.&nbsp;Meanwhile, devotees thronged prominent temples across the country on the last day of the year, offering prayers and seeking divine blessings as part of year-end religious observances.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a>&nbsp;In Ayodhya, devotees gathered in large numbers at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple to offer prayers on the occasion of Pratishtha Dwadashi and the second anniversary of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha, coinciding with the last day of the year. The temple witnessed a heavy influx of devotees since morning.The Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Mathura, also witnessed an overwhelming surge of devotees coming to seek blessings.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-pm-modi-s-foreign-visits-redefine-india-s-global-outreach-and-influence-1766919586333">Yearender 2025: PM Modi’s foreign visits redefine India’s global outreach and influence</a>

The Mata Vaishno Devi shrine has been witnessing exceptionally high footfall since Monday night despite dense fog and chilly conditions as thousands of pilgrims arrived to offer prayers and seek blessings for the New Year.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board suspended the registration for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage on Wednesday following a heavy rush and overwhelming surge of devotees on the occasion of New Year. According to officials, the registration counters have been closed until Thursday morning, as the crowd hit its peak at the Katra base camp and along the trekking route to the Bhawan. The Mata Vaishno Devi shrine has been witnessing exceptionally high footfall since Monday night as thousands of pilgrims arrived to offer prayers and seek blessings for the New Year. Despite dense fog and chilly conditions, pilgrims were seen undertaking the yatra with enthusiasm. Also Read: Xi Jinping vows to reunify China and Taiwan, urges for growth in New Year’s Eve speech The shrine board authorities decided to stop new registrations to ensure smooth crowd management, safety of visitors, and uninterrupted arrangements at the holy site. Officials also appealed to pilgrims travelling with children and the elderly to delay their journey, as long wait times and extended walking duration on the route may cause inconvenience. Also Read: Mali and Burkina Faso retaliate to Trump’s action, ban entry for US citizens The shrine board has also increased deployment of security, health staff, and sanitation teams to handle the massive influx. They have also installed barricades at key points along the track and stepped up monitoring at the Bhawan, Ardhkuwari, and Sanjichhat areas. Arrangements for medical assistance have been made for emergency cases. The Vaishno Devi shrine attracts lakhs of devotees every year and is among the most visited pilgrimages in the country. Like other shrines, it also records one of the highest annual rushes in the New Year period. The Shrine Board emphasized that the temporary halt is a precautionary step to maintain safety and an orderly ‘darshan’ and spiritual experience for the pilgrims. Also Read: DRDO successfully conducts salvo launch of indigenously developed Pralay missiles off Odisha coast Authorities said the registrations will start after Thursday morning, subject to crowd conditions. They said a formal announcement will be made online once the situation normalises. Meanwhile, devotees thronged prominent temples across the country on the last day of the year, offering prayers and seeking divine blessings as part of year-end religious observances. Also Read: Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters In Ayodhya, devotees gathered in large numbers at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple to offer prayers on the occasion of Pratishtha Dwadashi and the second anniversary of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha, coinciding with the last day of the year. The temple witnessed a heavy influx of devotees since morning. The Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Mathura, also witnessed an overwhelming surge of devotees coming to seek blessings. Also Read: Yearender 2025: PM Modi’s foreign visits redefine India’s global outreach and influence

The Mata Vaishno Devi shrine has been witnessing exceptionally high footfall since Monday night despite dense fog and chilly conditions as thousands of pilgrims arrived to offer prayers and seek blessings for the New Year.

Registration suspended at Vaishno Devi shrine amid heavy New Year rush

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his personal condolences to the family of Begum Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's first female prime minister, who died on 30 December after a prolonged illness at the age of 80. Modi's message was delivered via a letter handed over by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar to Tarique Rahman, Zia's son and acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), during a meeting in Dhaka on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jaishankar's visit marked India's official representation at Zia's state funeral, which drew thousands of mourners for the Namaz-e-Janaza prayers at the parliament complex before her burial beside her late husband, Ziaur Rahman.In the letter, Modi described the loss as a "profound personal" one, writing: "I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of your mother, Her Excellency Begum Khaleda Zia... Please accept my heartfelt condolences on this profound personal loss. May her soul rest in eternal peace." He recalled his 2015 meeting with Zia in Dhaka, praising her as "a leader of rare resolve and conviction" and the first woman to serve as Bangladesh's prime minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;"She made many important contributions to the development of Bangladesh, as well as to the strengthening of India-Bangladesh relations," PM Modi added. &nbsp;Looking ahead, the Indian PM expressed confidence in the continuation of bilateral ties: “While her passing leaves an irreplaceable void, her vision and legacy will endure. I am confident that her ideals will be carried forward under your able leadership of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, and will continue to serve as a guiding light to ensure a new beginning and the enrichment of the deep and historic partnership between India and Bangladesh.” The letter also extended sympathies to the people of Bangladesh, noting their "remarkable strength and dignity" and expressing hope that they would be guided by "shared values, democratic traditions, and a deep sense of national unity" in moving forward.&nbsp;EAM Jaishankar, who arrived in Dhaka shortly before the funeral and departed after a few hours, confirmed the handover on social media, stating he had conveyed "deepest condolences on behalf of the Government and people of India". The visit of India's foreign minister is seen as significant.&nbsp;&nbsp;The event occurred amid strained India-Bangladesh relations following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina last year. India's gesture includes Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's planned visit to the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi on Thursday to sign the condolence book.&nbsp;&nbsp;Zia's death came one day after her son Tarique Rahman's return from nearly 18 years in exile, positioning the BNP strongly ahead of planned February 2026 elections under Bangladesh's interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. She&nbsp;served as prime minister in three terms between 1991 and 2006, and was a towering figure in Bangladesh's political history, known for her rivalry with Hasina and her role in the country's democratic struggles.

PM Modi sends condolence letter to Khaleda Zia's son as Jaishankar attends Dhaka funeral

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his personal condolences to the family of Begum Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's first female prime minister, who died on 30 December after a prolonged illness at the age of 80. Modi's message was delivered via a letter handed over by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar to Tarique Rahman, Zia's son and acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), during a meeting in Dhaka on Wednesday. Jaishankar's visit marked India's official representation at Zia's state funeral, which drew thousands of mourners for the Namaz-e-Janaza prayers at the parliament complex before her burial beside her late husband, Ziaur Rahman. In the letter, Modi described the loss as a "profound personal" one, writing: "I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of your mother, Her Excellency Begum Khaleda Zia... Please accept my heartfelt condolences on this profound personal loss. May her soul rest in eternal peace." He recalled his 2015 meeting with Zia in Dhaka, praising her as "a leader of rare resolve and conviction" and the first woman to serve as Bangladesh's prime minister. "She made many important contributions to the development of Bangladesh, as well as to the strengthening of India-Bangladesh relations," PM Modi added. Looking ahead, the Indian PM expressed confidence in the continuation of bilateral ties: “While her passing leaves an irreplaceable void, her vision and legacy will endure. I am confident that her ideals will be carried forward under your able leadership of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, and will continue to serve as a guiding light to ensure a new beginning and the enrichment of the deep and historic partnership between India and Bangladesh.” The letter also extended sympathies to the people of Bangladesh, noting their "remarkable strength and dignity" and expressing hope that they would be guided by "shared values, democratic traditions, and a deep sense of national unity" in moving forward. EAM Jaishankar, who arrived in Dhaka shortly before the funeral and departed after a few hours, confirmed the handover on social media, stating he had conveyed "deepest condolences on behalf of the Government and people of India". The visit of India's foreign minister is seen as significant. The event occurred amid strained India-Bangladesh relations following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina last year. India's gesture includes Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's planned visit to the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi on Thursday to sign the condolence book. Zia's death came one day after her son Tarique Rahman's return from nearly 18 years in exile, positioning the BNP strongly ahead of planned February 2026 elections under Bangladesh's interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. She served as prime minister in three terms between 1991 and 2006, and was a towering figure in Bangladesh's political history, known for her rivalry with Hasina and her role in the country's democratic struggles.

Zia's death came one day after her son Tarique Rahman's return from nearly 18 years in exile, positioning the BNP strongly ahead of planned February 2026 elections under Bangladesh's interim government led by Muhammad Yunus

Union Health Ministry has decided to ban the manufacture, sale and distribution of all oral formulations of pain and fever medications with immediate effect. The ban includes Nimesulide above 100 milligrams in immediate‑release dosage form. The drug was banned under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, following consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board.&nbsp;In addition, the health ministry has also come up with a draft notification, announcing to removal of cough syrups from the list of over-the-counter medicines. The notification removes “syrups … for cough” from Schedule K — the list of medicines relieved from the requirement of a prescription by a registered medical practitioner. Meanwhile, Lozenges, pills or tablets for cough will remain on the list.&nbsp;“The use of all oral formulations containing Nimesulide above 100 mg in immediate release dosage form is likely to involve risk to human beings, and safer alternatives are available,” a Health Ministry notification said.&nbsp;A non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug, Nimesulide, has been under scrutiny across the globe for potential liver toxicity and other severe effects. The decision to prohibit aligns with efforts to tighten safety norms and phase out high‑risk medicines. The restriction applies only to high-dose Nimesulide products intended for human use, while lower-strength versions and alternative therapies will continue to be available.<h3>The move is unlikely to hit large pharmaceutical companies</h3>Drugmakers selling Nimesulide brands have been directed to stop production and recall affected batches. Analysts said the move is unlikely to significantly hit large pharmaceutical companies, as Nimesulide accounts for a small portion of overall NSAID sales. Smaller firms with heavier reliance on the drug, however, may face revenue pressure.&nbsp;India has earlier invoked Section 26A to prohibit several fixed-dose combinations and high-risk medicines in the interest of public health. At the same time, the country has strengthened domestic API production, with investments totalling Rs 4,763.34 crore made over the past three and a half years under the Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks scheme, up to September 2025.&nbsp;According to the government, the notable milestone is against an investment commitment of Rs 4,329.95 crore more than a period of six years in greenfield projects&nbsp;

The non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug, Nimesulide, has been under scrutiny across the globe for potential liver toxicity and other severe effects. The decision to prohibit aligns with efforts to tighten safety norms and phase out high‑risk medicines.

Union Health Ministry has decided to ban the manufacture, sale and distribution of all oral formulations of pain and fever medications with immediate effect. The ban includes Nimesulide above 100 milligrams in immediate‑release dosage form. The drug was banned under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, following consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board. In addition, the health ministry has also come up with a draft notification, announcing to removal of cough syrups from the list of over-the-counter medicines. The notification removes “syrups … for cough” from Schedule K — the list of medicines relieved from the requirement of a prescription by a registered medical practitioner. Meanwhile, Lozenges, pills or tablets for cough will remain on the list. “The use of all oral formulations containing Nimesulide above 100 mg in immediate release dosage form is likely to involve risk to human beings, and safer alternatives are available,” a Health Ministry notification said. A non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug, Nimesulide, has been under scrutiny across the globe for potential liver toxicity and other severe effects. The decision to prohibit aligns with efforts to tighten safety norms and phase out high‑risk medicines. The restriction applies only to high-dose Nimesulide products intended for human use, while lower-strength versions and alternative therapies will continue to be available. The move is unlikely to hit large pharmaceutical companies Drugmakers selling Nimesulide brands have been directed to stop production and recall affected batches. Analysts said the move is unlikely to significantly hit large pharmaceutical companies, as Nimesulide accounts for a small portion of overall NSAID sales. Smaller firms with heavier reliance on the drug, however, may face revenue pressure. India has earlier invoked Section 26A to prohibit several fixed-dose combinations and high-risk medicines in the interest of public health. At the same time, the country has strengthened domestic API production, with investments totalling Rs 4,763.34 crore made over the past three and a half years under the Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks scheme, up to September 2025. According to the government, the notable milestone is against an investment commitment of Rs 4,329.95 crore more than a period of six years in greenfield projects

The non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug, Nimesulide, has been under scrutiny across the globe for potential liver toxicity and other severe effects. The decision to prohibit aligns with efforts to tighten safety norms and phase out high‑risk medicines.

India bans Nimesulide oral tablets, syrups above 100 mg under Drugs Act: Here's why

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Wednesday successfully conducted a salvo launch of two indigenously developed Pralay missiles, featuring a state-of-the-art navigation system to ensure high precision, in quick succession from the same launcher off the coast of Odisha, marking a key milestone in the user evaluation phase of the weapon system. The Ministry of Defence said the Defence Research &amp; Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the test at around 10.30 am on December 31, 2025, off the coast of Odisha. Both missiles were launched back-to-back from a single launcher as part of user evaluation trials.According to officials, both missiles precisely followed their intended trajectories and met all mission objectives. The performance was confirmed by tracking sensors deployed by the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, while terminal events were validated through onboard telemetry systems installed on ships positioned near the impact points.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Salvo lunch of two Pralay Missile in quick succession from same launcher were successfully conducted today from ITR, Chandipur. The flight test was conducted as part of User evaluation trials. Both the missiles followed the intended trajectory meeting all flight objectives. <a href="https://t.co/QeJYVDhL1l">pic.twitter.com/QeJYVDhL1l</a>&mdash; DRDO (@DRDO_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/DRDO_India/status/2006312782598422795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“The flight test was conducted as part of user evaluation trials. Both the missiles followed the intended trajectory, meeting all flight objectives as confirmed by tracking sensors,” the defence ministry said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-pm-modi-s-foreign-visits-redefine-india-s-global-outreach-and-influence-1766919586333">Yearender 2025: PM Modi’s foreign visits redefine India’s global outreach and influence</a><h2>Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hails test launch, congratulates teams</h2>&nbsp;Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Armed Forces, defence public sector undertakings, and industry partners on the successful salvo launch, stating that it has established the reliability of the Pralay missile system.“The successful completion of the salvo launch of the Pralay missile has established the reliability of the missile,” he said.&nbsp;DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat also congratulated the teams involved in the test launch and said that the achievement “indicates imminent readiness of induction of the system with the users.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a><h2>Advanced features of Pralay missile&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Pralay is a solid-propellant, quasi-ballistic missile equipped with advanced guidance and navigation systems to ensure high accuracy. The missile is capable of carrying multiple types of warheads and engaging a variety of targets, thereby enhancing the operational flexibility of the armed forces. It has been developed by the Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad, in collaboration with several DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners. The systems for the tests were integrated by the development-cum-production partners, Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited. The salvo launch was witnessed by senior DRDO scientists, representatives of the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, and industry officials.&nbsp;

Pralay is a solid-propellant, quasi-ballistic missile equipped with advanced guidance and navigation systems to ensure high accuracy. The missile is capable of carrying multiple types of warheads and engaging a variety of targets.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Wednesday successfully conducted a salvo launch of two indigenously developed Pralay missiles, featuring a state-of-the-art navigation system to ensure high precision, in quick succession from the same launcher off the coast of Odisha, marking a key milestone in the user evaluation phase of the weapon system. The Ministry of Defence said the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the test at around 10.30 am on December 31, 2025, off the coast of Odisha. Both missiles were launched back-to-back from a single launcher as part of user evaluation trials. According to officials, both missiles precisely followed their intended trajectories and met all mission objectives. The performance was confirmed by tracking sensors deployed by the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, while terminal events were validated through onboard telemetry systems installed on ships positioned near the impact points.

Pralay is a solid-propellant, quasi-ballistic missile equipped with advanced guidance and navigation systems to ensure high accuracy. The missile is capable of carrying multiple types of warheads and engaging a variety of targets.

DRDO successfully conducts salvo launch of indigenously developed Pralay missiles off Odisha coast

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DRDO successfully conducts salvo launch of Pralay missiles off Odisha coast