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Indian Railways will charge passengers for carrying luggage beyond the free allowance, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told Parliament. Class-wise weight limits apply, with oversized or excess baggage required to be booked separately in brake or parcel vans.

From AC first class to sleeper: Indian Railways will now charge THIS much for your extra luggage

Uttar Pradesh police arrested a woman and her lover for reportedly killing her husband and dismembering the body with a wood grinder in the Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh. The accused have been identified as Ruby and Gaurav. They were arrested on December 20 and have been sent to jail, a senior officer said on Monday.&nbsp;Superintendent of Police K K Bishnoi said that Ruby, a resident of Mohalla Chunni in the Chandousi area in the Sambhal district, had filed a missing person complaint for her husband Rahul (38) on November 18.&nbsp;Later, police found a disfigured body missing its head, hands and legs from a drain near the Eidgah area on December 15. "The body was taken into custody, and a post-mortem was conducted. The forensic team carried out a detailed examination, and DNA samples were collected,” the SP said, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;During the probe, it was discovered by the police that the name "Rahul' was written on the body. A scan of missing persons complaints at nearby police stations, coupled with technical analysis, showed that Rahul’s mobile phone had been switched off since November 18.<h3>Woman admits her crime</h3>The SP stated that subsequent investigation led police to suspect the role of Ruby. During questioning, she admitted to murdering her husband with the help of her lover, Gaurav, after Rahul allegedly caught them in an illicit relationship. "The accused told police that they attacked Rahul with an iron rod and an iron pestle, killing him on the spot. They then brought a grinder and cut the body into parts," Bishnoi added.&nbsp;One part of the body was dumped in the drain where it was later recovered, while the remaining parts were taken to Rajghat and thrown into the Ganga river, he added. Police have recovered the grinder allegedly used to cut the body, along with the iron hammer and other tools used in the assault.&nbsp;According to police, a part of the body was dumped in a drain and later recovered, while the remaining parts were taken to Rajghat and thrown into the Ganga River. Police have seized the grinder allegedly used to dismember the body, along with an iron hammer and other weapons used in the crime.&nbsp;The SP said DNA samples of the deceased have been preserved and will be matched with those of his children to conclusively confirm his identity and strengthen the case. A case has been registered under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and further investigation is ongoing.

Police said DNA samples of the deceased have been preserved and will be matched with those of his children to conclusively confirm his identity and strengthen the case. A case has been registered under the relevant provisions of the BNS Act, and further investigation is ongoing.

Uttar Pradesh police arrested a woman and her lover for reportedly killing her husband and dismembering the body with a wood grinder in the Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh. The accused have been identified as Ruby and Gaurav. They were arrested on December 20 and have been sent to jail, a senior officer said on Monday. Superintendent of Police K K Bishnoi said that Ruby, a resident of Mohalla Chunni in the Chandousi area in the Sambhal district, had filed a missing person complaint for her husband Rahul (38) on November 18. Later, police found a disfigured body missing its head, hands and legs from a drain near the Eidgah area on December 15. "The body was taken into custody, and a post-mortem was conducted. The forensic team carried out a detailed examination, and DNA samples were collected,” the SP said, news agency PTI reported. During the probe, it was discovered by the police that the name "Rahul' was written on the body. A scan of missing persons complaints at nearby police stations, coupled with technical analysis, showed that Rahul’s mobile phone had been switched off since November 18. Woman admits her crime The SP stated that subsequent investigation led police to suspect the role of Ruby. During questioning, she admitted to murdering her husband with the help of her lover, Gaurav, after Rahul allegedly caught them in an illicit relationship. "The accused told police that they attacked Rahul with an iron rod and an iron pestle, killing him on the spot. They then brought a grinder and cut the body into parts," Bishnoi added. One part of the body was dumped in the drain where it was later recovered, while the remaining parts were taken to Rajghat and thrown into the Ganga river, he added. Police have recovered the grinder allegedly used to cut the body, along with the iron hammer and other tools used in the assault. According to police, a part of the body was dumped in a drain and later recovered, while the remaining parts were taken to Rajghat and thrown into the Ganga River. Police have seized the grinder allegedly used to dismember the body, along with an iron hammer and other weapons used in the crime. The SP said DNA samples of the deceased have been preserved and will be matched with those of his children to conclusively confirm his identity and strengthen the case. A case has been registered under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and further investigation is ongoing.

Police said DNA samples of the deceased have been preserved and will be matched with those of his children to conclusively confirm his identity and strengthen the case. A case has been registered under the relevant provisions of the BNS Act, and further investigation is ongoing.

UP horror: Woman kills husband with lover, chops body & dumps parts in drain; Details here

Indian space agency ISRO has commenced the 24-hour countdown to the Wednesday, (24th Dec) launch of US firm AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird-6 satellite aboard the LVM3 rocket. The three-stage LVM3 rocket, India's most capable spacefaring vehicle is to liftoff from the second launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh at 8:54am Indian Time, Wednesday. The satellite would be injected into orbit 520kms above the Earth, barely 16 minutes after launch.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">⏳ 24 hours to go! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LVM3M6?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LVM3M6</a> is set to launch the BlueBird Block-2 spacecraft tomorrow from SDSC SHAR. Final countdown begins. Stay tuned for live updates. Launch on 24 Dec 2025 at 08:54 IST. Youtube Livestreaming link:<a href="https://t.co/FMYCs31L3j">https://t.co/FMYCs31L3j</a> 🗓️ 24 Dec 2025 | 🕗 08:24 IST… <a href="https://t.co/tKoVu8rDUq">pic.twitter.com/tKoVu8rDUq</a>&mdash; ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/2003306159927869784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The countdown to a rocket launch involves sequential tasks like fueling, system checks, and approvals, synchronizing hundreds of people and automated systems. It's a crucial operational checklist during which all processes are validated.&nbsp;The 6,100kg BlueBird 6 satellite is the heaviest payload to be lifted by the LVM3 vehicle in its operational history. Therefore, this satellite would be the heaviest payload to be carried by an Indian rocket. LVM3 has a track record of having delivered success in all its eight missions to date.&nbsp;This mission is being executed as part of a commercial deal between ISRO's business arm NewSpace India Limited(NSIL) and the Texas-based AST SpaceMobile. As a launch services provider(rocket builder and operator), ISRO launches foreign-origin satellites to space on a commercial basis. Facilitated by NSIL, these commercial space missions are like a taxi ferrying a passenger. In this case, the passenger is the US firm, which pays the Indian Government for the launch service.&nbsp;This is the third commercial mission of LVM3, and the first time that the Indian LVM3 rocket is executing the mission for an American customer. Earlier, it had executed two launches for a European customer OneWeb(now Eutelsat OneWeb).<h2>About AST SpaceMobile and their internet-beaming satellites</h2>AST SpaceMobile is a Texas-based telecom company that aims to build and launch a fleet of satellites that can directly provide internet connectivity to mobile phones. Typically, only purpose-built satellite phones can facilitate satellite communication. These traditional satellite phone handsets are bulky and require visible antennas, they offer voice connectivity, and low-bandwidth texting and data services. Such services are offered by firms such as Iridium, Thuraya, among others. They are widely used in the defence and maritime sectors for providing connectivity where no communication infrastructure exists.&nbsp;Firms like AST and Starlink are attempting to change this by ensuring direct connectivity between smartphones and satellites. They intend to ensure that Android and Apple devices available in the market can communicate directly with satellites, without any modifications or special hardware. Thanks to the global coverage planned using a fleet of satellites, such services would eventually enable cell phone connectivity almost anywhere on Earth. In simple terms, one need not worry about being "not reachable" or "out of coverage area".&nbsp;As per reports, AST presently has a fleet of five first-generation (Block-1) satellites in orbit. The firm plans to launch a fleet of 45-60 second-generation (Block-2)satellites to offer services in major global regions, it is said.&nbsp;The firm has announced that they have a series of satellites that will be launching in the coming months. BlueBird 7 has shipped to the Cape Canaveral, Florida launch site this month, BlueBirds 8-16 are in various stages of production, with launches planned every 1-2 months on average during 2025 and 2026, the firm announced.&nbsp;They expect to have 45-60 satellites in orbit by year-end 2026. It is touted that these BlueBird satellites(by size) will be the largest commercial satellites ever deployed in Low Earth orbit (about 600kms above earth). Each of these satellites would carry a 2,400sq feet phased array antenna with true direct-to-cell broadband, with a claimed capability of up to 10,000 MHz of processing bandwidth and claimed peak speeds of 120 Mbps per cell.&nbsp;The firm says they have partnered with 50+ mobile network operators serving nearly 3 billion subscribers, "supported by a flexible spectrum strategy blending our own licensed spectrum with partner spectrum".&nbsp;While the launch of Bluebird-6 is being carried out from India, it must be noted that such direct-to-mobile satellite internet services have not been approved by the Indian Government. Firms like Starlink and Eutelsat OneWeb that are also into providing LEO satellite-based high-speed internet connectivity are in the process of seeking approvals from various departments of the Indian government. &nbsp;

ISRO has begun the countdown for launching AST SpaceMobile’s 6,100 kg BlueBird-6 satellite aboard its LVM3 rocket on Dec 24 from Sriharikota. This marks LVM3’s heaviest payload and first commercial mission for a US customer.

Indian space agency ISRO has commenced the 24-hour countdown to the Wednesday, (24th Dec) launch of US firm AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird-6 satellite aboard the LVM3 rocket. The three-stage LVM3 rocket, India's most capable spacefaring vehicle is to liftoff from the second launchpad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh at 8:54am Indian Time, Wednesday. The satellite would be injected into orbit 520kms above the Earth, barely 16 minutes after launch.

ISRO has begun the countdown for launching AST SpaceMobile’s 6,100 kg BlueBird-6 satellite aboard its LVM3 rocket on Dec 24 from Sriharikota. This marks LVM3’s heaviest payload and first commercial mission for a US customer.

Countdown starts for ISRO's launch tomorrow

Bangladesh's high commission in New Delhi temporarily suspended all visa services on Monday (December 22) after a small group of protesters gathered outside the mission. This suspension comes amid growing political tensions between the two countries. Additionally, Bangladesh’s assistant high commission in Tripura, had already announced a halt to visa services on Sunday (December 21) after a protest organised by the Tipra Motha Party and other groups. The private operator handling visa services in Siliguri, West Bengal, also stopped operations due to an act of vandalism at the site.&nbsp;Notices issued by the diplomatic missions in New Delhi and Agartala confirmed that all consular services, including visa processing, would remain unavailable until further notice due to "unavoidable circumstances." Despite the disruption, the staff at Bangladesh's assistant high commission in Agartala remain in place. The unrest in Bangladesh began after the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a radical student leader known for his anti-India stance, who was killed after being shot by gunmen in Dhaka. Hadi, who was being treated in Singapore at the time of his death, had garnered widespread support from certain political factions. Protests erupted across Bangladesh, some of which took on anti-India overtones.&nbsp;On December 18, a large crowd attempted to storm India's assistant high commission in Chittagong, prompting local authorities to use tear gas and batons to disperse the protesters. In response, India suspended visa services in Chittagong. Demonstrations also took place near Indian missions in Dhaka, Khulna, and Rajshahi in the wake of Hadi's death. As protests intensified, several Bangladeshi student leaders and politicians claimed that Hadi's killers had escaped into India and demanded that New Delhi return the suspects. However, on Sunday, the Bangladesh police announced that they were unaware of the whereabouts of the alleged assailants.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-recce-to-weapons-hidden-in-car-cctv-footage-reveals-how-the-bondi-beach-terror-attack-was-planned-1766418760746">From recce to weapons hidden in car: CCTV footage reveals how the Bondi Beach terror attack was planned</a>&nbsp;In India, the Ministry of External Affairs rejected claims that there was any breach of security at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. The Indian government also expressed concern over the lynching of a Hindu man, Dipu Chandra Das, during the protests. Das had been accused of blasphemy and was killed by a mob. India reported that around 20 to 25 individuals gathered outside the Bangladesh high commission in New Delhi on Saturday, protesting against the lynching, but were quickly dispersed by police.&nbsp;Bangladesh's foreign minister Touhid Hossain disputed India's version of the incident, suggesting that there had been a serious security lapse. The Bangladeshi government also rejected India's depiction of the killing of Das as an attack on the country's minority communities. Diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh have been strained since the collapse of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, followed by student-led protests and the rise of a caretaker administration led by Muhammad Yunus. The recent unrest triggered by Hadi’s death has only worsened the bilateral ties between the two countries.

Bangladesh suspends visa services amid protests, political unrest and rising tensions

Bangladesh's high commission in New Delhi temporarily suspended all visa services on Monday (December 22) after a small group of protesters gathered outside the mission. This suspension comes amid growing political tensions between the two countries. Additionally, Bangladesh’s assistant high commission in Tripura, had already announced a halt to visa services on Sunday (December 21) after a protest organised by the Tipra Motha Party and other groups. The private operator handling visa services in Siliguri, West Bengal, also stopped operations due to an act of vandalism at the site. Notices issued by the diplomatic missions in New Delhi and Agartala confirmed that all consular services, including visa processing, would remain unavailable until further notice due to "unavoidable circumstances." Despite the disruption, the staff at Bangladesh's assistant high commission in Agartala remain in place. The unrest in Bangladesh began after the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a radical student leader known for his anti-India stance, who was killed after being shot by gunmen in Dhaka. Hadi, who was being treated in Singapore at the time of his death, had garnered widespread support from certain political factions. Protests erupted across Bangladesh, some of which took on anti-India overtones. On December 18, a large crowd attempted to storm India's assistant high commission in Chittagong, prompting local authorities to use tear gas and batons to disperse the protesters. In response, India suspended visa services in Chittagong. Demonstrations also took place near Indian missions in Dhaka, Khulna, and Rajshahi in the wake of Hadi's death. As protests intensified, several Bangladeshi student leaders and politicians claimed that Hadi's killers had escaped into India and demanded that New Delhi return the suspects. However, on Sunday, the Bangladesh police announced that they were unaware of the whereabouts of the alleged assailants. Also Read: From recce to weapons hidden in car: CCTV footage reveals how the Bondi Beach terror attack was planned In India, the Ministry of External Affairs rejected claims that there was any breach of security at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. The Indian government also expressed concern over the lynching of a Hindu man, Dipu Chandra Das, during the protests. Das had been accused of blasphemy and was killed by a mob. India reported that around 20 to 25 individuals gathered outside the Bangladesh high commission in New Delhi on Saturday, protesting against the lynching, but were quickly dispersed by police. Bangladesh's foreign minister Touhid Hossain disputed India's version of the incident, suggesting that there had been a serious security lapse. The Bangladeshi government also rejected India's depiction of the killing of Das as an attack on the country's minority communities. Diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh have been strained since the collapse of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, followed by student-led protests and the rise of a caretaker administration led by Muhammad Yunus. The recent unrest triggered by Hadi’s death has only worsened the bilateral ties between the two countries.

Bangladesh suspends visa services in India after protests and tensions rise over the killing of a student leader. Diplomatic ties between the countries worsen

The United States on Monday (Dec 22) welcomes India's new legislation concerning Nuclear energy, the SHANTI Bill 2025, hailing it as an important step in the direction of deepening energy ties and peaceful civil nuclear cooperation between the two countries. The statement came a day after President Draupadi Mumu gave assent to the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, or SHANTI Bill, 2025.&nbsp;In a post on X, the US Embassy in India said, “We welcome India’s new #SHANTIBill, a step towards a stronger energy security partnership and peaceful civil nuclear cooperation. The United States stands ready to undertake joint innovation and R&amp;D in the energy sector.”<h2>The SHANTI Act&nbsp;</h2> Under the SHANTI Act government introduced sweeping reforms in India's civil nuclear architecture, replacing the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, which remains largely intact since its introduction.&nbsp;One of the landmark shifts presented in the Act is the opening up of the civil nuclear sector for private players for the first time, which was historically run by state-owned enterprises. It also grants a statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, along with the introduction of a well-defined licensing system and proposes a specialised nuclear tribunal to handle disputes.&nbsp;The Bill specifies that licences may be granted to “any department of the Government of India or any institution or authority or corporation established or owned or controlled by such government, any government company, any other company, a joint venture among any of the aforesaid; or any other person expressly permitted by the central government, by notification.”<h2>India-US nuclear deal&nbsp;</h2>India and the United States announced the historical civil nuclear cooperation initiative nearly two decades ago, culminating in the landmark India–US nuclear deal. The agreement ended India’s long-standing nuclear isolation and allowed it to resume civilian nuclear cooperation, even as it remained outside the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.&nbsp;The deal marked a major shift in US policy and reshaped the trajectory of bilateral relations. However, progress remained slow for years due to legal and regulatory hurdles. A breakthrough came in March this year, when the US Department of Energy granted regulatory clearance to an American company to design and build nuclear reactors in India.

SHANTI stands for the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, 2025, which Parliament passed last week.

The United States on Monday (Dec 22) welcomes India's new legislation concerning Nuclear energy, the SHANTI Bill 2025, hailing it as an important step in the direction of deepening energy ties and peaceful civil nuclear cooperation between the two countries. The statement came a day after President Draupadi Mumu gave assent to the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, or SHANTI Bill, 2025. In a post on X, the US Embassy in India said, “We welcome India’s new #SHANTIBill, a step towards a stronger energy security partnership and peaceful civil nuclear cooperation. The United States stands ready to undertake joint innovation and R&D in the energy sector.” The SHANTI Act Under the SHANTI Act government introduced sweeping reforms in India's civil nuclear architecture, replacing the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, which remains largely intact since its introduction. One of the landmark shifts presented in the Act is the opening up of the civil nuclear sector for private players for the first time, which was historically run by state-owned enterprises. It also grants a statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, along with the introduction of a well-defined licensing system and proposes a specialised nuclear tribunal to handle disputes. The Bill specifies that licences may be granted to “any department of the Government of India or any institution or authority or corporation established or owned or controlled by such government, any government company, any other company, a joint venture among any of the aforesaid; or any other person expressly permitted by the central government, by notification.” India-US nuclear deal India and the United States announced the historical civil nuclear cooperation initiative nearly two decades ago, culminating in the landmark India–US nuclear deal. The agreement ended India’s long-standing nuclear isolation and allowed it to resume civilian nuclear cooperation, even as it remained outside the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. The deal marked a major shift in US policy and reshaped the trajectory of bilateral relations. However, progress remained slow for years due to legal and regulatory hurdles. A breakthrough came in March this year, when the US Department of Energy granted regulatory clearance to an American company to design and build nuclear reactors in India.

SHANTI stands for the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, 2025, which Parliament passed last week.

US welcomes India’s SHANTI Bill, calls it a 'step towards stronger energy security partnership'

In our simple understanding, the use of an airstrip is limited to aircraft taking off, but that is not its only use if you are creative enough, like Odisha. A viral videos show over 8,000 candidates in Odisha appearing for a state-level examination on the Jamadarpali airstrip in Sambalpur district. With no desks or mats, the aspirants used the airstrip's surface to write the test, with drones deployed to monitor any wrongdoing and discipline during the process.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Airstrip turns into exam hall as 8,000 candidates appear for 187 Home Guard posts (Source: ANI) <a href="https://t.co/WHZDX6Qq4z">pic.twitter.com/WHZDX6Qq4z</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2003116333022756987?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The state government published an advertisement for 163 Home Guard posts with a pay of less than Rs 650 a day. The job entails assisting police in their function of maintaining vigil at police stations and busy areas, which need enhanced law enforcement oversight.Some of the candidates who took the exam were reportedly qualified with MBA and MCA degrees, among others.&nbsp;“We advertised 183 Home Guard posts without anticipating such an overwhelming response. More than 10,600 candidates applied for positions requiring only a Class V qualification. We had to reject several applications due to under-qualification and age criteria,” said Bilkis Nesha, Deputy Superintendent of Police (Home Guard), Sambalpur. &nbsp;<h2>Political row erupts</h2>The visuals of the test being held on the airstrip went viral across social media, leading to a political slugfest. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) criticised the state's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party government over the employment issue.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-set-to-restart-world-s-largest-nuclear-power-plant-15-years-after-fukushima-disaster-nuclear-energy-japan-tsunami-japan-earthquakes-1766400699235">Japan set to restart world’s largest nuclear power plant, 15 years after Fukushima disaster</a>&nbsp;"This is not a movie scene. This is BJP-ruled Odisha. Where more than 8,000 aspirants, including MBA &amp; MCA graduates, were lining up for just 187 Home Guard vacancies. "This is the brutal reality of @BJP4India’s so-called double engine governance. Degrees in hand. Jobs nowhere. Unemployment isn’t an accident; it’s the BJP’s achievement,” TMC said in a post on X.&nbsp;

Over 8,000 candidates appeared for 187 Home Guard posts in Odisha, with the examination conducted on an airstrip, sparking a political row.

In our simple understanding, the use of an airstrip is limited to aircraft taking off, but that is not its only use if you are creative enough, like Odisha. A viral videos show over 8,000 candidates in Odisha appearing for a state-level examination on the Jamadarpali airstrip in Sambalpur district. With no desks or mats, the aspirants used the airstrip's surface to write the test, with drones deployed to monitor any wrongdoing and discipline during the process.

Over 8,000 candidates appeared for 187 Home Guard posts in Odisha, with the examination conducted on an airstrip, sparking a political row.

Airstrip turns exam centre in Odisha; over 8,000 candidates vie for fewer than 200 posts | Watch

The decision of the Supreme Court to scrap the Electoral Bond Scheme in February 2024 has slowed down the donations received in the following financial year by Bharatiya Janata Party, the party ruling at the Centre. On the contrary, the party recorded a sharp jump in 2024-25, the first full financial year after the scheme allowing anonymous donations was abolished.&nbsp;The BJP’s Contribution Report for 2024-25 revealed that the party received Rs 6,088 crore in the Lok Sabha elections in 2024, around 53 per cent more than the Rs 3,967 crore collected in 2023-24. The report was filed by the party on December 8 and released by the Election Commission last week.&nbsp;The BJP’s total funds stood at nearly 12 times those of the Congress, which reported Rs 522.13 crore in 2024–25. Combined donations to a dozen Opposition parties, including the Congress, amounted to Rs 1,343 crore, giving the BJP about 4.5 times that total, according to a report in the India Express.&nbsp;A detailed review of the BJP’s 162-page report shows that electoral trusts contributed Rs 3,744 crore in 2024–25, forming 61 per cent of the party’s overall receipts. The remaining Rs 2,344 crore came from other sources, including individual and corporate donors.<h3>Who are the donors for the BJP?</h3>Along with the trusts, several prominent companies donated to the BJP during 2024-25, which include Serum Institute of India Pvt Ltd (Rs 100 crore), Rungta Sons Private Limited (Rs 95 crore) and Vedanta Limited (Rs 67 crore). Other significant donors include Macrotech Developers Limited (Rs 65 crore), Derive Investments (Rs 53 crore), Modern Road Makers Pvt Ltd (Rs 52 crore) and Lotus Hometextiles Limited (Rs 51 crore).&nbsp;Other compoany also include Safal Goyal Realty LLP (Rs 45 crore), ITC Limited (Rs 39 crore), Global Ivy Ventures LLP (Rs 35 crore), ITC Infotech India Ltd (Rs 33.5 crore), Hero Enterprises Partner Ventures (Rs 30 crore), Mankind Pharma Limited (Rs 30 crore), Suresh Amritlal Kotak (Rs 30 crore), and Hindustan Zinc Limited (Rs 27 crore).&nbsp;Interestingly, donations to the BJP in the financial year 2024-25 are the highest in the last six years since 2019-20. The Contribution Report of the BJP also covers all individual donations of more than Rs 20,000. Currently, corporates can donate through cheque, Demand Draft or bank transfers to the BJP. The parties are supposed to mention these donations in their contribution reports and annual audit reports submitted to the EC.

The BJP’s total funds stood at nearly 12 times those of the Congress, which reported Rs 522.13 crore in 2024–25. Combined donations to a dozen Opposition parties, including the Congress, amounted to Rs 1,343 crore, giving the BJP about 4.5 times that total.

The decision of the Supreme Court to scrap the Electoral Bond Scheme in February 2024 has slowed down the donations received in the following financial year by Bharatiya Janata Party, the party ruling at the Centre. On the contrary, the party recorded a sharp jump in 2024-25, the first full financial year after the scheme allowing anonymous donations was abolished. The BJP’s Contribution Report for 2024-25 revealed that the party received Rs 6,088 crore in the Lok Sabha elections in 2024, around 53 per cent more than the Rs 3,967 crore collected in 2023-24. The report was filed by the party on December 8 and released by the Election Commission last week. The BJP’s total funds stood at nearly 12 times those of the Congress, which reported Rs 522.13 crore in 2024–25. Combined donations to a dozen Opposition parties, including the Congress, amounted to Rs 1,343 crore, giving the BJP about 4.5 times that total, according to a report in the India Express. A detailed review of the BJP’s 162-page report shows that electoral trusts contributed Rs 3,744 crore in 2024–25, forming 61 per cent of the party’s overall receipts. The remaining Rs 2,344 crore came from other sources, including individual and corporate donors. Who are the donors for the BJP? Along with the trusts, several prominent companies donated to the BJP during 2024-25, which include Serum Institute of India Pvt Ltd (Rs 100 crore), Rungta Sons Private Limited (Rs 95 crore) and Vedanta Limited (Rs 67 crore). Other significant donors include Macrotech Developers Limited (Rs 65 crore), Derive Investments (Rs 53 crore), Modern Road Makers Pvt Ltd (Rs 52 crore) and Lotus Hometextiles Limited (Rs 51 crore). Other compoany also include Safal Goyal Realty LLP (Rs 45 crore), ITC Limited (Rs 39 crore), Global Ivy Ventures LLP (Rs 35 crore), ITC Infotech India Ltd (Rs 33.5 crore), Hero Enterprises Partner Ventures (Rs 30 crore), Mankind Pharma Limited (Rs 30 crore), Suresh Amritlal Kotak (Rs 30 crore), and Hindustan Zinc Limited (Rs 27 crore). Interestingly, donations to the BJP in the financial year 2024-25 are the highest in the last six years since 2019-20. The Contribution Report of the BJP also covers all individual donations of more than Rs 20,000. Currently, corporates can donate through cheque, Demand Draft or bank transfers to the BJP. The parties are supposed to mention these donations in their contribution reports and annual audit reports submitted to the EC.

The BJP’s total funds stood at nearly 12 times those of the Congress, which reported Rs 522.13 crore in 2024–25. Combined donations to a dozen Opposition parties, including the Congress, amounted to Rs 1,343 crore, giving the BJP about 4.5 times that total.

Was Electoral Bond scrapping useless? Report claims BJP’s purse grows over 50% to Rs 6,088 crore

The Aravalli Hills, the world's oldest mountain range in north India, are at the centre of a fresh controversy after the Indian Supreme Court gave a new legal definition for them. While the central government has said that it's a technical clarification, activists are calling it a slow ecological unravelling. The controversy is around one specific question - "What qualifies as the Aravalli Hills?&nbsp;The Indian apex court asked, in a week-old observation, for a clearer, scientific definition of the Aravalli Hills and Aravalli Range. The SC said that, as per the globally accepted standards, the Aravalli Hills are a landform with a rise of 100 metres from the surrounding ground, as a hill or mountain. To be specific with the definition, the SC has asked for a definition.&nbsp;Now, environmentalists are saying that redefining hills purely by height could exclude large tracts of the Aravalli (especially in Haryana and Rajasthan) from protection. This will open them up to indiscriminate mining, real estate and infrastructure projects.&nbsp;Why is it a huge topic?&nbsp;The Aravalli ranges from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi, and is far more than a geological relic. The hills work as a natural barrier against desertification. Activists argue that Aravalli is already subject to legal and illegal mining. And now, any dilution in the protection of the hills could accelerate biodiversity loss, worsen air quality in Delhi-NCR.&nbsp;What did the opposition say?&nbsp;Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot turned out to be one of the loudest political voices to back the #SaveAravalli, a campaign on social media. Gehlot claimed that the new definition would destroy 90 per cent of the mountain range in the state.Meanwhile, the Congress Party said on X, To save Aravalli, people are raising their voice, and villagers are protesting. Scientists and ecologists are sounding dire warnings, and communities are fighting to protect the land that sustains them. And yet, the Modi government refuses to listen because crony capitalists are their priorities."&nbsp;The BJP hit back sharply. Party leaders accused the Opposition of fear-mongering and selective reading of the Supreme Court order. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav asserted that "no relaxation has been granted" concerning the protection of the Aravalli region. &nbsp;

The SC said that, as per the globally accepted standards, the Aravalli Hills are a landform with a rise of 100 metres from the surrounding ground, as a hill or mountain.

The Aravalli Hills, the world's oldest mountain range in north India, are at the centre of a fresh controversy after the Indian Supreme Court gave a new legal definition for them. While the central government has said that it's a technical clarification, activists are calling it a slow ecological unravelling. The controversy is around one specific question - "What qualifies as the Aravalli Hills? The Indian apex court asked, in a week-old observation, for a clearer, scientific definition of the Aravalli Hills and Aravalli Range. The SC said that, as per the globally accepted standards, the Aravalli Hills are a landform with a rise of 100 metres from the surrounding ground, as a hill or mountain. To be specific with the definition, the SC has asked for a definition. Now, environmentalists are saying that redefining hills purely by height could exclude large tracts of the Aravalli (especially in Haryana and Rajasthan) from protection. This will open them up to indiscriminate mining, real estate and infrastructure projects. Why is it a huge topic? The Aravalli ranges from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi, and is far more than a geological relic. The hills work as a natural barrier against desertification. Activists argue that Aravalli is already subject to legal and illegal mining. And now, any dilution in the protection of the hills could accelerate biodiversity loss, worsen air quality in Delhi-NCR. What did the opposition say? Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot turned out to be one of the loudest political voices to back the #SaveAravalli, a campaign on social media. Gehlot claimed that the new definition would destroy 90 per cent of the mountain range in the state. Meanwhile, the Congress Party said on X, To save Aravalli, people are raising their voice, and villagers are protesting. Scientists and ecologists are sounding dire warnings, and communities are fighting to protect the land that sustains them. And yet, the Modi government refuses to listen because crony capitalists are their priorities." The BJP hit back sharply. Party leaders accused the Opposition of fear-mongering and selective reading of the Supreme Court order. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav asserted that "no relaxation has been granted" concerning the protection of the Aravalli region.

The SC said that, as per the globally accepted standards, the Aravalli Hills are a landform with a rise of 100 metres from the surrounding ground, as a hill or mountain.

WION Explains | What’s the controversy on Aravalli Hills and why it matters more than you think

A disturbing video showing a violent altercation between a doctor and a patient inside a Shimla hospital has gone viral on social media platforms. The footage shows both individuals physically attacking each other, with onlookers intervening to stop the fight. In the video, the patient, who appears to be lying on a hospital bed, kicks the doctor. The doctor avoids the kicks and then hits the patient multiple times in the face. Reports suggest that the incident took place at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla. The patient, identified as Arjun Panwar, had initially visited the hospital for an endoscopy but began experiencing breathing difficulties. Afterward, he reportedly went to a different ward to lie down. It is alleged that an altercation began when the doctor reportedly misbehaved with the patient, escalating into a heated verbal exchange that eventually turned physical.&nbsp;The footage, which has now gone viral across social media, has sparked public outrage. The patient’s family and supporters have demanded strict action against the doctor involved. A police complaint has also been lodged in connection with the incident.<h2>Watch the viral video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">On-duty doctor and patient exchange blows at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh; video goes viral <a href="https://t.co/ILeDQiBr8V">pic.twitter.com/ILeDQiBr8V</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2003077317913182705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

As of now, the hospital administration has not provided an official statement regarding the altercation. Meanwhile, a crowd gathered outside IGMC following news of the incident, with local residents calling for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible. The viral video has led to a variety of reactions online. While some social media users have condemned the doctor’s actions, others have suggested that more context is needed before rushing to judgment. A user named VatsRohit argued that medical professionals shouldn’t be expected to tolerate abuse or physical aggression from patients. Another user, Gems of Himachal, provided additional background, explaining that the patient had been directed to lie in a different ward due to oxygen needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the doctor questioned the patient, the situation escalated, leading to the confrontation. The user emphasised that blame could lie on either party, depending on the full context of the situation.

WATCH | Violence erupts between doctor and patient in Shimla hospital after heated argument

A disturbing video showing a violent altercation between a doctor and a patient inside a Shimla hospital has gone viral on social media platforms. The footage shows both individuals physically attacking each other, with onlookers intervening to stop the fight. In the video, the patient, who appears to be lying on a hospital bed, kicks the doctor. The doctor avoids the kicks and then hits the patient multiple times in the face. Reports suggest that the incident took place at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla. The patient, identified as Arjun Panwar, had initially visited the hospital for an endoscopy but began experiencing breathing difficulties. Afterward, he reportedly went to a different ward to lie down. It is alleged that an altercation began when the doctor reportedly misbehaved with the patient, escalating into a heated verbal exchange that eventually turned physical. The footage, which has now gone viral across social media, has sparked public outrage. The patient’s family and supporters have demanded strict action against the doctor involved. A police complaint has also been lodged in connection with the incident. Watch the viral video here

A viral video shows a physical altercation between a doctor and a patient at Shimla’s IGMC. The incident, which escalated after a heated argument, has sparked mixed reactions from netizens

A group of Indians was reportedly seen dancing at the iconic Red Square of Moscow after arriving in the Russian capital as part of a labour contingent. The act captured on the phone is circulating on social media, which shows the men celebrating with music and dance, drawing attention from passers-by.&nbsp;The visuals have sparked curiosity and discussion on social media, where netizens flooded the comment section with their mixed opinions and multiple memes. While some of them talked in favour of the Indians, and some against Russia.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Reportedly, these are Indians that have arrived in Moscow as part of the labor contingent, dancing on the Red Square. <a href="https://t.co/Ntpf03LJy1">https://t.co/Ntpf03LJy1</a> <a href="https://t.co/4LqQob2ujE">pic.twitter.com/4LqQob2ujE</a>&mdash; Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/2002790620134601195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The social media user who uploaded the video in a post on X said, "Reportedly, these are Indians that have arrived in Moscow as part of the labor contingent, dancing on the Red Square."&nbsp;In the next post with a different visual, he wrote, "Russian media report that approximately 10,000 individuals, a labour contingent from India, have arrived in Moscow. It is reported that this is the first group of Indians who arrived in Russia following Putin's recent visit to New Delhi. I wonder how many of them will be deployed to the front line and how soon? What are your estimates?"<h3>Netizens react to the video</h3>One of the social media users said, "We Indians will rebuild Russia and Ukraine both."&nbsp;The next said, "Many will soon don Russian uniforms and have their lives taken on the front lines in Ukraine."&nbsp;"Shame on India for allowing this. PM Narendra Modi must really not give a shit about Indian citizens to create this partnership. I guarantee these Indian met are going to be used towards Russia's war in Ukraine. So much for India claiming to be neutral," another wrote.&nbsp;They also said,"Humans are always the most valuable resources, and Putin is squandering Russia’s treasure in the war."&nbsp;Appreciating the Indians, one of the users wrote,"Indians make the best migrants anywhere.. no politics or violence..law abiding and hard working."

The visuals have sparked curiosity and discussion on social media, where netizens flooded the comment section with their mixed opinions and multiple memes. While some of them talked in favour of the Indians, and some against Russia.

A group of Indians was reportedly seen dancing at the iconic Red Square of Moscow after arriving in the Russian capital as part of a labour contingent. The act captured on the phone is circulating on social media, which shows the men celebrating with music and dance, drawing attention from passers-by. The visuals have sparked curiosity and discussion on social media, where netizens flooded the comment section with their mixed opinions and multiple memes. While some of them talked in favour of the Indians, and some against Russia.

The visuals have sparked curiosity and discussion on social media, where netizens flooded the comment section with their mixed opinions and multiple memes. While some of them talked in favour of the Indians, and some against Russia.

Viral video shows 'Indians dancing on Moscow streets', claims to be part of labour contingent — Here's why

An Air India flight heading to Mumbai was forced to return to Delhi on Monday morning (December 22) after a technical problem was detected shortly after takeoff. The aircraft had been in the air for nearly an hour when the crew decided to turn back as a precautionary measure for safety. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the issue came into the light during flap retraction when pilots noticed abnormally low oil pressure in the aircraft’s right-side engine. The situation worsened when the oil pressure dropped completely, prompting the crew to shut down the affected engine in line with established procedures.&nbsp;The Boeing 777, carrying approximately 355 passengers, landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. No injuries were reported. Air India confirmed that flight AI887 returned to its origin airport due to a technical concern, but did not specify the exact nature of the fault. The airline stated that the decision was taken strictly in accordance with standard safety protocols.<h2>See the post by the Ministry of Civil Aviation here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Ministry of Civil Aviation has taken note of the Air India flight AI-887 incident involving a technical issue shortly after take-off. The aircraft landed safely. The Ministry has sought a detailed report from Air India, and DGCA has been directed to conduct a thorough…&mdash; MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI/status/2002970856939724852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hc-issues-notice-to-sonia-rahul-gandhi-on-ed-s-appeal-in-national-herald-case-1766398224492">Delhi HC issues notice to Sonia, Rahul Gandhi on ED's appeal in National Herald case</a>&nbsp;The aviation regulator said that inspections and corrective work were underway, and the incident would be examined by the airline’s Permanent Investigation Board under DGCA supervision. After landing, passengers disembarked safely and were assisted by Air India’s ground staff. The airline arranged an alternative aircraft to transport travelers to Mumbai and offered refreshments while they waited.&nbsp;The Ministry of Civil Aviation acknowledged the incident on social media, requesting a detailed report from Air India and instructing the DGCA to conduct a comprehensive review. Air India expressed regret for the disruption and assured full cooperation with the investigation, reiterating that passenger safety remains its highest priority.

Midair scare: Mumbai-bound Air India flight AI887 returns to Delhi following technical snag

An Air India flight heading to Mumbai was forced to return to Delhi on Monday morning (December 22) after a technical problem was detected shortly after takeoff. The aircraft had been in the air for nearly an hour when the crew decided to turn back as a precautionary measure for safety. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the issue came into the light during flap retraction when pilots noticed abnormally low oil pressure in the aircraft’s right-side engine. The situation worsened when the oil pressure dropped completely, prompting the crew to shut down the affected engine in line with established procedures. The Boeing 777, carrying approximately 355 passengers, landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. No injuries were reported. Air India confirmed that flight AI887 returned to its origin airport due to a technical concern, but did not specify the exact nature of the fault. The airline stated that the decision was taken strictly in accordance with standard safety protocols. See the post by the Ministry of Civil Aviation here

Air India flight AI887 returned to Delhi after an engine oil pressure failure mid-air. The Boeing 777 landed safely, and passengers were flown later to the destination

After hearing detailed submissions by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Delhi High Court on Monday issued notice to all respondents, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, on the ED's appeal challenging the trial court order that declined to take cognisance of its money-laundering complaint in the National Herald case. The Court has scheduled a further hearing on March 12, 2026. Justice Ravinder Dudeja heard the matter. Appearing for the ED, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta placed a detailed factual chronology before the Court. Senior Advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi and R.S. Cheema represented the Gandhi family during the proceedings. Addressing the Court, the Solicitor General argued that the trial court erred in law by failing to appreciate that cognisance taken by a competent court on a private complaint carries a higher legal standing than a mere FIR, where cognisance may still be refused even after a chargesheet is filed. He submitted that in the present matter, cognisance of the private complaint constituting the scheduled offence had already been taken by a competent court and upheld up to the Supreme Court, placing it on a far firmer footing than a simple police FIR. Mehta further contended that the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) does not prescribe the mode or manner in which a scheduled offence must be registered. What is required under the statute, he said, is the existence of an allegation of criminal activity relating to a planned offence, without mandating that it must arise from an FIR rather than a criminal complaint. Emphasising that the issue warrants examination, he stated that he was prepared to satisfy the Court and sought the issuance of notice. During the hearing, the Court asked whether cognisance had been taken of the private complaint after the complainant was examined. Responding in the affirmative, the Solicitor General informed the bench that witnesses had also been examined. He urged that the matter be finally adjudicated on the return date and requested that it be heard. However, Senior Advocate Singhvi stated that some respondents had yet to be served. In its appeal, the ED has challenged the Rouse Avenue Court's order declining to take cognisance of its prosecution complaint in the National Herald case. The agency has argued that the trial court erred in holding that proceedings under the PMLA cannot be maintained in the absence of an FIR for the scheduled offence, contending that such a requirement is not provided for in the Act's statutory framework. According to the ED, criminal proceedings can be initiated either through a police case or a private complaint. Once a competent court has taken cognisance of the scheduled offence, and the higher courts have upheld the order, the origin of the offence becomes immaterial. The agency has further submitted that cognisance taken on a private complaint reflects judicial application of mind at the threshold stage and therefore stands on a higher footing than a mere FIR. The appeal arises from the trial court's refusal to take cognisance of the ED's complaint against Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Sam Pitroda, Suman Dubey, Young Indian, Dotex Merchandise Pvt Ltd and others. While the trial court clarified that it was not examining the merits of the allegations and permitted further investigation following a subsequent FIR registered by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Delhi, it held the prosecution complaint, as filed, to be legally unsustainable.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

In its appeal, the ED has challenged the Rouse Avenue Courts order declining to take cognisance of its prosecution complaint in the National Herald case.

After hearing detailed submissions by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Delhi High Court on Monday issued notice to all respondents, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, on the ED's appeal challenging the trial court order that declined to take cognisance of its money-laundering complaint in the National Herald case. The Court has scheduled a further hearing on March 12, 2026. Justice Ravinder Dudeja heard the matter. Appearing for the ED, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta placed a detailed factual chronology before the Court. Senior Advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi and R.S. Cheema represented the Gandhi family during the proceedings. Addressing the Court, the Solicitor General argued that the trial court erred in law by failing to appreciate that cognisance taken by a competent court on a private complaint carries a higher legal standing than a mere FIR, where cognisance may still be refused even after a chargesheet is filed. He submitted that in the present matter, cognisance of the private complaint constituting the scheduled offence had already been taken by a competent court and upheld up to the Supreme Court, placing it on a far firmer footing than a simple police FIR. Mehta further contended that the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) does not prescribe the mode or manner in which a scheduled offence must be registered. What is required under the statute, he said, is the existence of an allegation of criminal activity relating to a planned offence, without mandating that it must arise from an FIR rather than a criminal complaint. Emphasising that the issue warrants examination, he stated that he was prepared to satisfy the Court and sought the issuance of notice. During the hearing, the Court asked whether cognisance had been taken of the private complaint after the complainant was examined. Responding in the affirmative, the Solicitor General informed the bench that witnesses had also been examined. He urged that the matter be finally adjudicated on the return date and requested that it be heard. However, Senior Advocate Singhvi stated that some respondents had yet to be served. In its appeal, the ED has challenged the Rouse Avenue Court's order declining to take cognisance of its prosecution complaint in the National Herald case. The agency has argued that the trial court erred in holding that proceedings under the PMLA cannot be maintained in the absence of an FIR for the scheduled offence, contending that such a requirement is not provided for in the Act's statutory framework. According to the ED, criminal proceedings can be initiated either through a police case or a private complaint. Once a competent court has taken cognisance of the scheduled offence, and the higher courts have upheld the order, the origin of the offence becomes immaterial. The agency has further submitted that cognisance taken on a private complaint reflects judicial application of mind at the threshold stage and therefore stands on a higher footing than a mere FIR. The appeal arises from the trial court's refusal to take cognisance of the ED's complaint against Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Sam Pitroda, Suman Dubey, Young Indian, Dotex Merchandise Pvt Ltd and others. While the trial court clarified that it was not examining the merits of the allegations and permitted further investigation following a subsequent FIR registered by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Delhi, it held the prosecution complaint, as filed, to be legally unsustainable. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

In its appeal, the ED has challenged the Rouse Avenue Court's order declining to take cognisance of its prosecution complaint in the National Herald case.

Delhi HC issues notice to Sonia, Rahul Gandhi on ED's appeal in National Herald case

Based on Google's Year in Search 2025 report, the top news events India Googled the most in 2025 include major Geopolitics, Indian political developments, and significant cultural moments. Here's the list of the top 10 news events India Googled the most.

Year-Ender 2025: From Pahalgam terror attack to Operation Sindoor — Top 10 news events India Googled the most

A Sikh parade in New Zealand's South Auckland was disrupted and heckled on Saturday by a group of Christians linked to a local church. Linked to political leader Brian Tamaki's Destiny Church, a fundamentalist religious group, the parade disruptors performed 'Haka' as they confronted the Sikhs performing kirtan (holy songs).&nbsp;The protestors also chanted slogans and held up banners reading “This is New Zealand, not India”. They were, however, taken away from the spot by the police and allow the procession.&nbsp;In the video shared online, one can see the group - True Patriots of NZ - wearing blue shirts doing 'Haka' and confronting the Sikh group in South Auckland. slogans such as “Kiwis first,” “Keep NZ, NZ,” and “True Patriot" were written on their shirts. Police officials can also be seen in the middle of both the groups.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A group called True Patriots of NZ performs a haka to block a Sikh parade in Auckland and chants &quot;Jesus, lord of our nation&quot;. They also had a banner reading: &quot;This is New Zealand, not India&quot; Follow: <a href="https://twitter.com/NoticerNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NoticerNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/cP2TBw5Zqg">pic.twitter.com/cP2TBw5Zqg</a>&mdash; The Noticer (@NoticerNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoticerNews/status/2002339817968054723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Brian Tamaki, whose church the group is linked to shared the video with the caption, &nbsp;"THIS IS OUR LAND. THIS IS OUR STAND."&nbsp;"Kiwis will not be silent while foreign religions flood in. We will stand…peacefully, proudly, unapologetically…for our land, for our faith and our Kiwi way of life," read the caption further.<h2>New Zealand Sikh Youth issues statement</h2>The New Zealand Sikh Youth issued a statement after the incident in which they said, "The local Manurewa Sikh community gathered together for a scheduled nagar kirtan with all necessary permits. A nagar kirtan is a parade in which Sikhs lead a cultural procession through the local area. In addition, free food is often distributed to onlookers, as sharing is a fundamental Sikh value,"&nbsp; &nbsp;

In the video shared online, one can see the group - True Patriots of NZ - wearing blue shirts doing Haka and confronting the Sikh group.

A Sikh parade in New Zealand's South Auckland was disrupted and heckled on Saturday by a group of Christians linked to a local church. Linked to political leader Brian Tamaki's Destiny Church, a fundamentalist religious group, the parade disruptors performed 'Haka' as they confronted the Sikhs performing kirtan (holy songs). The protestors also chanted slogans and held up banners reading “This is New Zealand, not India”. They were, however, taken away from the spot by the police and allow the procession. In the video shared online, one can see the group - True Patriots of NZ - wearing blue shirts doing 'Haka' and confronting the Sikh group in South Auckland. slogans such as “Kiwis first,” “Keep NZ, NZ,” and “True Patriot" were written on their shirts. Police officials can also be seen in the middle of both the groups.

In the video shared online, one can see the group - True Patriots of NZ - wearing blue shirts doing 'Haka' and confronting the Sikh group.

'This is our land': Sikh parade in New Zealand heckled by Christian Group

In Madhya Pradesh's Sehore, a minor argument snowballed into alleged communal clashes on Sunday (Dec 21). Tensions flared in Ashta town of Sehore district on Sunday night after a clash between two communities spiralled into violence, forcing police to use tear gas to bring the situation under control. The unrest also led to a temporary blockade of the busy Bhopal–Indore highway by members of the Karni Sena, according to reports.<h2>How the clash began</h2>According to officials, the trouble started around 9 pm near Alipur Chowk on the old Bhopal–Indore road. What began as a minor disagreement quickly escalated, with people from both sides gathering near the rest house close to Parvati Bridge. The confrontation soon turned violent, with stone-pelting reported from both sides.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chaos-at-thiruparankundram-during-islamic-event-public-protest-for-deepam-lighting-1766384624039">Chaos at Thiruparankundram during Islamic event; public push for Deepam lighting</a>Several parked vehicles and those passing through the area were damaged during the chaos, triggering panic among residents and commuters.Watch a video of the chaos here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Heavy stone pelting reported amidst clashes between two communities in Madhya Pradesh&#39;s Sehore; security heightened <a href="https://t.co/iR2qjV3WSu">pic.twitter.com/iR2qjV3WSu</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2002999085385826585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Karni Sena worker at centre of dispute?</h2>As per a Bhaskar English report, the initial argument involved a Karni Sena worker who was returning from a programme in Harda and a local youth. As word spread, more people assembled at the spot, and the situation slipped out of control. Stone-pelting followed, leading to damage to vehicles and public property.Following the incident, Karni Sena workers blocked the Bhopal–Indore highway in protest. The blockade led to long traffic jams on both sides near the Chaupati area, causing major inconvenience to travellers. After administrative intervention and negotiations, efforts were made to clear the road.By late night, traffic movement was gradually restored, though vehicles continued to move slowly for some time.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-extremists-emboldened-hasina-blames-yunus-govt-for-anti-india-hostility-in-bangladesh-1766380925403">'Extremists emboldened': Hasina blames Yunus for anti-India hostility in B'desh</a><h2>Police action and reinforcements</h2>Teams from Parvati and Ashta police stations rushed to the scene after receiving information about the violence. When the crowd refused to disperse, police fired tear gas shells and carried out a brief lathi charge to push people back.Given the seriousness of the situation, additional police forces were called in from nearby areas. Police presence was increased in sensitive pockets of the town, and continuous monitoring was put in place.<h2>Situation under control, probe underway</h2>Police said the situation is currently under control. In an X statement, SP Sehore said, "Following the incident that occurred on 21.12.25 between two parties in the Parvati police station area, the situation was fully brought under control immediately by the police during the night itself. The movement of the general public and vehicles, as well as commercial activities, are proceeding smoothly; there is peace in the area, and police forces have been deployed on site as a precautionary measure."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">सीहोर दिनांक 21.12.25 को थाना पार्वती क्षेत्र अंतर्गत दो पक्षों के बीच हुई घटना उपरांत तत्काल पुलिस द्वारा रात्रि में ही पूरी तरह से स्थिति को नियंत्रित कर लिया गया है | आम लोगों का एवं वाहनों का आवागमन एवं व्यवसायिक गतिविधियां सुचारू रूप से संचालित हो रही है, क्षेत्र में शांति… <a href="https://t.co/dYq4XJQxEB">pic.twitter.com/dYq4XJQxEB</a>&mdash; SP_SEHORE (@SpSehore) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpSehore/status/2002989383281189277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A minor argument in Ashta, Sehore spiralled into communal violence on Sunday night, with stone-pelting, damaged vehicles and police firing tear gas to regain control. Karni Sena workers later blocked the Bhopal–Indore highway. Police say the situation is now under control. Watch video here.

In Madhya Pradesh's Sehore, a minor argument snowballed into alleged communal clashes on Sunday (Dec 21). Tensions flared in Ashta town of Sehore district on Sunday night after a clash between two communities spiralled into violence, forcing police to use tear gas to bring the situation under control. The unrest also led to a temporary blockade of the busy Bhopal–Indore highway by members of the Karni Sena, according to reports. How the clash began According to officials, the trouble started around 9 pm near Alipur Chowk on the old Bhopal–Indore road. What began as a minor disagreement quickly escalated, with people from both sides gathering near the rest house close to Parvati Bridge. The confrontation soon turned violent, with stone-pelting reported from both sides. Also read | Chaos at Thiruparankundram during Islamic event; public push for Deepam lighting Several parked vehicles and those passing through the area were damaged during the chaos, triggering panic among residents and commuters. Watch a video of the chaos here:

A minor argument in Ashta, Sehore spiralled into communal violence on Sunday night, with stone-pelting, damaged vehicles and police firing tear gas to regain control. Karni Sena workers later blocked the Bhopal–Indore highway. Police say the situation is now under control. Watch video here.

Violence breaks out in MP’s Sehore after minor dispute, highway blocked. Watch video

Delhi’s air quality remained in “very poor” quality on Monday (Dec 22) as the national capital region, Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi, and Jaipur woke up to reduced visibility and intense cold. Several states and cities in the northern part of India were engulfed in dense fog.<h2>Delhi chokes with toxic smog</h2>Delhi experienced a hard time with low visibility as toxic smog persisted over the city-state early morning on Monday. Visuals from the Indira Gandhi International Airport showed severely low visibility, which might disrupt the flight schedule for passengers. Meanwhile, the AQI (Air Quality Index) around the NH 24 was recorded at 363 according to CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board), which placed it in the "very poor" category. GRAP 4 was invoked in the national capital to curb the extreme air pollution.<h2>Uttar Pradesh blanketed by fog</h2>Moradabad was shrouded in dense fog early in the morning, as the cold spell intensified. Vehicles and people are advised to take caution while going out. Ayodhya also experienced a severe winter morning with a cold wave and dense fog, reducing visibility, causing disruptions and making travel difficult. A cold wave also gripped Varanasi as a thick blanket of fog formed over the city, drastically hampering visibility, slowing down traffic. Lucknow was enveloped by a thick layer of fog as residents faced chilly and hazy mornings.<h2>Chillai-Kalan in Kashmir</h2>A layer of fog covered Srinagar city as a cold wave gripped the Kashmir Valley, with lower visibility, and flights were affected as the harsh, extreme winter period, locally called 'Chillai Kalan', began on December 21, which led to freezing conditions and icy landscapes across the region. More fog hampers visibility in Karnal and Jaipur Visibility also dropped across Haryana's Karnal as a thick layer of dense fog engulfed the region, disrupting daily life and traffic. Visibility at Jaipur International Airport also dropped, causing disruptions for domestic and international flights.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A layer of fog covered Srinagar city as a cold wave gripped the Kashmir Valley, with lower visibility, and flights as the harsh, extreme winter period, locally called 'Chillai Kalan', began on December 21, which led to freezing conditions and icy landscapes across the region.

Delhi’s air quality remained in “very poor” quality on Monday (Dec 22) as the national capital region, Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi, and Jaipur woke up to reduced visibility and intense cold. Several states and cities in the northern part of India were engulfed in dense fog. Delhi chokes with toxic smog Delhi experienced a hard time with low visibility as toxic smog persisted over the city-state early morning on Monday. Visuals from the Indira Gandhi International Airport showed severely low visibility, which might disrupt the flight schedule for passengers. Meanwhile, the AQI (Air Quality Index) around the NH 24 was recorded at 363 according to CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board), which placed it in the "very poor" category. GRAP 4 was invoked in the national capital to curb the extreme air pollution. Uttar Pradesh blanketed by fog Moradabad was shrouded in dense fog early in the morning, as the cold spell intensified. Vehicles and people are advised to take caution while going out. Ayodhya also experienced a severe winter morning with a cold wave and dense fog, reducing visibility, causing disruptions and making travel difficult. A cold wave also gripped Varanasi as a thick blanket of fog formed over the city, drastically hampering visibility, slowing down traffic. Lucknow was enveloped by a thick layer of fog as residents faced chilly and hazy mornings. Chillai-Kalan in Kashmir A layer of fog covered Srinagar city as a cold wave gripped the Kashmir Valley, with lower visibility, and flights were affected as the harsh, extreme winter period, locally called 'Chillai Kalan', began on December 21, which led to freezing conditions and icy landscapes across the region. More fog hampers visibility in Karnal and Jaipur Visibility also dropped across Haryana's Karnal as a thick layer of dense fog engulfed the region, disrupting daily life and traffic. Visibility at Jaipur International Airport also dropped, causing disruptions for domestic and international flights. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A layer of fog covered Srinagar city as a cold wave gripped the Kashmir Valley, with lower visibility, and flights as the harsh, extreme winter period, locally called 'Chillai Kalan', began on December 21, which led to freezing conditions and icy landscapes across the region.

Delhi AQI remains ‘very poor’ as dense fog engulfs northern India

Chaos unfolded at the Thiruparankundram hill in Tamil Nadu's Madurai district late Sunday (Dec 21st) night, when followers of Islam went to hoist a flag at their shrine (Dargah) at the hilltop, which is in close proximity to an ancient Hindu temple. The Thiruparankundram hilltop is home to the Subramaniya Swamy temple, which dates back to the 6th century, and the Sikkander Badusha dargah, an Islamic shrine that came up in the 17th century.Protests by locals began late on Sunday, when members of the Islamic community proceeded to hoist a flag at the Islamic shrine on the hill. The flag hoisting at the Islamic Shrine is done as part of an annual commemorative event known as the Santhanakoodu festival that goes on from late-December to early-January. Tensions are high in the region due to an ongoing court battle over the conduct of Hindu religious rituals at the hill, and disagreements between the DMK government ruling Tamil Nadu and the Hindu religious outfits.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-extremists-emboldened-hasina-blames-yunus-govt-for-anti-india-hostility-in-bangladesh-1766380925403">'Extremists emboldened': Hasina blames Yunus govt for anti-India hostility in Bangladesh</a>Amid a heavy police presence, the flag hoisting was done to mark the commencement of the local Santhanakoodu festival of the Islamic community. Meanwhile, locals protested and made attempts to light a Hindu lamp at the hilltop temple. However, they were blocked by the police. The lamp lighting at the hilltop is a matter pending before the Court, owing to differing views over the ritual's conduct.The DMK government in Tamil Nadu maintains that the lamp must be lit at the same spot where it has been lit for over a century. Tamil Nadu government authorities say that the lamp must be lit at what is known as the Deepa Mandapam, a different location in the vicinity of the hilltop temple. They cite that lighting the lamp at the Deepa Mandapam has been in practice for the last 100 years or so. They also believe that lighting the lamp at the hilltop Hindu temple, very close to a mosque, could potentially cause communal tensions and lead to law and order issues. The DMK government has accused the BJP and BJP-backed outfits of attempting to create communal unrest.&nbsp;Whereas, Hindu outfits maintain that the lamp must be lit at a stone lamp pillar at the hilltop temple, as per ancient custom. They believe that the ancient customs and faith must be upheld. They believe that the lamp must be lit at a spot that is in proximity to the mosque. The BJP and related outfits accuse the DMK government of being anti-Hindu and indulging in minority appeasement politics.&nbsp;This dispute over the lamp lighting ritual has been in court since the start of the month, and final orders are awaited. Despite the Court permitting the lamp lighting at the hilltop stone lamp pillar earlier this month, the Tamil Nadu Government had cited law and order issues and previous legal proceedings to challenge the Court order. On two occasions, the Tamil Nadu government did not permit the lighting of a lamp at the stone lamp pillar. Instead, the authorities went ahead with the century-old ritual of lighting the lamp at the Deepa Mandapam.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-extremists-emboldened-hasina-blames-yunus-govt-for-anti-india-hostility-in-bangladesh-1766380925403">'Extremists emboldened': Hasina blames Yunus govt for anti-India hostility in Bangladesh</a>The matter remains a sensitive one, as Tamil Nadu is barely four months away from the state assembly polls. The DMK Government in Tamil Nadu, which is seeking re-election, has taken a firm stance on this matter and is against the temple lamp lighting near the Islamic shrine.Meanwhile, the BJP, which is part of the opposition NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu, is equally firm in ensuring the lamp lighting at the hilltop stone lamp pillar.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Amid a heavy police presence, the flag hoisting was done to mark the commencement of the local Santhanakoodu festival of the Islamic community. Meanwhile, locals protested and made attempts to light a Hindu lamp at the hilltop temple. However, they were blocked by the police.

Chaos unfolded at the Thiruparankundram hill in Tamil Nadu's Madurai district late Sunday (Dec 21st) night, when followers of Islam went to hoist a flag at their shrine (Dargah) at the hilltop, which is in close proximity to an ancient Hindu temple. The Thiruparankundram hilltop is home to the Subramaniya Swamy temple, which dates back to the 6th century, and the Sikkander Badusha dargah, an Islamic shrine that came up in the 17th century. Protests by locals began late on Sunday, when members of the Islamic community proceeded to hoist a flag at the Islamic shrine on the hill. The flag hoisting at the Islamic Shrine is done as part of an annual commemorative event known as the Santhanakoodu festival that goes on from late-December to early-January. Tensions are high in the region due to an ongoing court battle over the conduct of Hindu religious rituals at the hill, and disagreements between the DMK government ruling Tamil Nadu and the Hindu religious outfits. Also read | 'Extremists emboldened': Hasina blames Yunus govt for anti-India hostility in Bangladesh Amid a heavy police presence, the flag hoisting was done to mark the commencement of the local Santhanakoodu festival of the Islamic community. Meanwhile, locals protested and made attempts to light a Hindu lamp at the hilltop temple. However, they were blocked by the police. The lamp lighting at the hilltop is a matter pending before the Court, owing to differing views over the ritual's conduct. The DMK government in Tamil Nadu maintains that the lamp must be lit at the same spot where it has been lit for over a century. Tamil Nadu government authorities say that the lamp must be lit at what is known as the Deepa Mandapam, a different location in the vicinity of the hilltop temple. They cite that lighting the lamp at the Deepa Mandapam has been in practice for the last 100 years or so. They also believe that lighting the lamp at the hilltop Hindu temple, very close to a mosque, could potentially cause communal tensions and lead to law and order issues. The DMK government has accused the BJP and BJP-backed outfits of attempting to create communal unrest. Whereas, Hindu outfits maintain that the lamp must be lit at a stone lamp pillar at the hilltop temple, as per ancient custom. They believe that the ancient customs and faith must be upheld. They believe that the lamp must be lit at a spot that is in proximity to the mosque. The BJP and related outfits accuse the DMK government of being anti-Hindu and indulging in minority appeasement politics. This dispute over the lamp lighting ritual has been in court since the start of the month, and final orders are awaited. Despite the Court permitting the lamp lighting at the hilltop stone lamp pillar earlier this month, the Tamil Nadu Government had cited law and order issues and previous legal proceedings to challenge the Court order. On two occasions, the Tamil Nadu government did not permit the lighting of a lamp at the stone lamp pillar. Instead, the authorities went ahead with the century-old ritual of lighting the lamp at the Deepa Mandapam. Also read | 'Extremists emboldened': Hasina blames Yunus govt for anti-India hostility in Bangladesh The matter remains a sensitive one, as Tamil Nadu is barely four months away from the state assembly polls. The DMK Government in Tamil Nadu, which is seeking re-election, has taken a firm stance on this matter and is against the temple lamp lighting near the Islamic shrine. Meanwhile, the BJP, which is part of the opposition NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu, is equally firm in ensuring the lamp lighting at the hilltop stone lamp pillar.

Amid a heavy police presence, the flag hoisting was done to mark the commencement of the local Santhanakoodu festival of the Islamic community. Meanwhile, locals protested and made attempts to light a Hindu lamp at the hilltop temple. However, they were blocked by the police.

Chaos at Thiruparankundram during Islamic event; public protest for Deepam lighting

Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday (Dec 22) blamed the Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus government for the rising hostility against Indians in the nation. Blaming the interim administration in Dhaka for worsening ties with India, she said that extremist groups have gotten emboldened under the Yunus administration. She also underscored India's status as Bangladesh's most dependable partner for decades, and said that the ties shared by New Delhi and Dhaka are deep-rooted. She insisted that the current tensions between the neighbours would subside once legitimate governance is restored.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-want-my-political-assassination-hasina-refuses-return-to-bangladesh-thanks-india-for-continued-hospitality-1766375949870">They want my 'political assassination': Hasina refuses return to Bangladesh</a><h2>Hasina on strained India-Bangladesh ties</h2>Placing recent developments in a regional context, Hasina addressed the strain in India-Bangladesh relations, including Dhaka's decision to summon the Indian envoy. She accused the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, of issuing hostile statements against India, failing to protect religious minorities and allowing extremist elements to shape foreign policy.India, she said, has been Bangladesh’s most dependable partner for decades, with ties rooted in history, geography and shared sacrifices.<h2>India justified in its concern</h2>India's concerns over the safety of its personnel are justified, she said, adding that any responsible government would protect diplomatic missions and prosecute those issuing threats instead of shielding what she described as "hooligans."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-rickshaw-puller-wearing-red-thread-branded-raw-agent-assaulted-by-mob-in-bangladesh-1766322679454">Hindu rickshaw puller wearing red thread assaulted by mob in Bangladesh</a>Hasina also raised alarm over growing anti-India sentiment and concerns about the safety of Indian diplomats in Bangladesh. She claimed extremists emboldened under the Yunus-led interim setup were driving hostility, alleging attacks on the Indian embassy, media organisations and minority communities. According to her, the interim administration had elevated radical elements to positions of authority while releasing convicted terrorists.On rhetoric around India's Siliguri Corridor, often called the "Chicken's Neck," Hasina described such statements as reckless and irresponsible. No serious leader, she said, would threaten a neighbour critical to Bangladesh’s trade and regional stability.<h2>Hasina breaks silence on Osman Hadi killing</h2>Referring to the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, Hasina said the incident symbolised a broader breakdown of law and order since her removal. Violence, she warned, has become routine under the interim government, destabilising Bangladesh internally and worrying neighbouring countries. "When you cannot maintain basic order within your borders, your credibility on the international stage collapses," she said, calling it "the reality of Yunus's Bangladesh."Hasina said Yunus lacks the mandate to reshape Bangladesh’s foreign policy. "Once Bangladeshis can vote freely again, our foreign policy will return to serving our national interests," she insisted. &nbsp;

Sheikh Hasina blames Muhammad Yunus's interim government for rising anti-India hostility in Bangladesh. Calling India Dhaka's most dependable partner, she says ties will stabilise once legitimate governance and law and order are restored.

Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday (Dec 22) blamed the Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus government for the rising hostility against Indians in the nation. Blaming the interim administration in Dhaka for worsening ties with India, she said that extremist groups have gotten emboldened under the Yunus administration. She also underscored India's status as Bangladesh's most dependable partner for decades, and said that the ties shared by New Delhi and Dhaka are deep-rooted. She insisted that the current tensions between the neighbours would subside once legitimate governance is restored. Also read | They want my 'political assassination': Hasina refuses return to Bangladesh Hasina on strained India-Bangladesh ties Placing recent developments in a regional context, Hasina addressed the strain in India-Bangladesh relations, including Dhaka's decision to summon the Indian envoy. She accused the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, of issuing hostile statements against India, failing to protect religious minorities and allowing extremist elements to shape foreign policy. India, she said, has been Bangladesh’s most dependable partner for decades, with ties rooted in history, geography and shared sacrifices. India justified in its concern India's concerns over the safety of its personnel are justified, she said, adding that any responsible government would protect diplomatic missions and prosecute those issuing threats instead of shielding what she described as "hooligans." Also read | Hindu rickshaw puller wearing red thread assaulted by mob in Bangladesh Hasina also raised alarm over growing anti-India sentiment and concerns about the safety of Indian diplomats in Bangladesh. She claimed extremists emboldened under the Yunus-led interim setup were driving hostility, alleging attacks on the Indian embassy, media organisations and minority communities. According to her, the interim administration had elevated radical elements to positions of authority while releasing convicted terrorists. On rhetoric around India's Siliguri Corridor, often called the "Chicken's Neck," Hasina described such statements as reckless and irresponsible. No serious leader, she said, would threaten a neighbour critical to Bangladesh’s trade and regional stability. Hasina breaks silence on Osman Hadi killing Referring to the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, Hasina said the incident symbolised a broader breakdown of law and order since her removal. Violence, she warned, has become routine under the interim government, destabilising Bangladesh internally and worrying neighbouring countries. "When you cannot maintain basic order within your borders, your credibility on the international stage collapses," she said, calling it "the reality of Yunus's Bangladesh." Hasina said Yunus lacks the mandate to reshape Bangladesh’s foreign policy. "Once Bangladeshis can vote freely again, our foreign policy will return to serving our national interests," she insisted.

Sheikh Hasina blames Muhammad Yunus's interim government for rising anti-India hostility in Bangladesh. Calling India Dhaka's most dependable partner, she says ties will stabilise once legitimate governance and law and order are restored.

'Extremists emboldened': Hasina blames Yunus govt for anti-India hostility in Bangladesh

A 23-year-old man from the Morbi district of Gujarat, who is in ‘captivity’ in Ukraine for reportedly participating in the war for Russia, has appealed for help from the Indian government for his release. His appeal came in a latest video message sent to his family, who also cautioned Indians from scammers while going to Russia for studies or work.&nbsp;Sahil Mohamed Hussein Majothi, a resident of Morbi’s Kalika Plot area, came into the spotlight after Ukrainian authorities released a video earlier this month showing him surrendering to their forces.&nbsp;Majothi had travelled to St Petersburg on January 10, 2024, on a student visa to study Russian Language and Culture at ITMO University. He was later allegedly implicated in a police case, jailed, and reportedly compelled to join the battlefield to fight for Russia, where he was eventually captured by Ukrainian troops.<h3>Appeals to PM Modi for rescue</h3>In a video message that the family received on Sunday night, claiming it to have been shared by ‘Ukrainian authorities’, Sahil says, “Right now I am stuck in Ukraine as a war criminal. Now I am hopeless, I don’t know what will happen in future. But I want to send a message to my Indian citizens. Those Indians coming to Russia for higher studies or work, be careful because there are so many scammers here. You may be trapped in criminal cases, narcotics cases, or illegal cases, so take care of yourself. As far as possible, stay away from all this.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WATCH | Gujarat student forced to join Russian army, sends SOS video from Ukraine. The student has been identified as Sahil Mohammad Hussain. <a href="https://t.co/QcDsjWONaz">pic.twitter.com/QcDsjWONaz</a>&mdash; The Tatva (@thetatvaindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/thetatvaindia/status/2002967630827975014?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He also appealed to the Indian govt and said, “I appeal to the Indian government, to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and S Jaishankar (Minister of External Affairs), if possible, please help.”.&nbsp;While the video messages do not specify when they were recorded, one of them seems to be a recent one, as Sahil can be heard referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit on December 4 and 5.

Sahil Mohamed Hussein Majothi, a resident of Morbi’s Kalika Plot area, came into the spotlight after Ukrainian authorities released a video earlier this month showing him surrendering to their forces.

A 23-year-old man from the Morbi district of Gujarat, who is in ‘captivity’ in Ukraine for reportedly participating in the war for Russia, has appealed for help from the Indian government for his release. His appeal came in a latest video message sent to his family, who also cautioned Indians from scammers while going to Russia for studies or work. Sahil Mohamed Hussein Majothi, a resident of Morbi’s Kalika Plot area, came into the spotlight after Ukrainian authorities released a video earlier this month showing him surrendering to their forces. Majothi had travelled to St Petersburg on January 10, 2024, on a student visa to study Russian Language and Culture at ITMO University. He was later allegedly implicated in a police case, jailed, and reportedly compelled to join the battlefield to fight for Russia, where he was eventually captured by Ukrainian troops. Appeals to PM Modi for rescue In a video message that the family received on Sunday night, claiming it to have been shared by ‘Ukrainian authorities’, Sahil says, “Right now I am stuck in Ukraine as a war criminal. Now I am hopeless, I don’t know what will happen in future. But I want to send a message to my Indian citizens. Those Indians coming to Russia for higher studies or work, be careful because there are so many scammers here. You may be trapped in criminal cases, narcotics cases, or illegal cases, so take care of yourself. As far as possible, stay away from all this.”

Sahil Mohamed Hussein Majothi, a resident of Morbi’s Kalika Plot area, came into the spotlight after Ukrainian authorities released a video earlier this month showing him surrendering to their forces.

‘I am hopeless’: Gujarat youth captured in Ukraine while fighting for Russia appeals to PM Modi for rescue

The Bharatiya Janata Party-led ruling Mahayuti alliance was headed to a thumping victory in the Maharashtra local bodies, and the BJP is all set to emerge as the single largest party. Results for 288 Maharashtra Nagar Parishad and panchayat seats have been declared, in which the BJP has won 129. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis thanked voters and party workers and said the results reflect public confidence in the BJP’s development agenda. He hailed the victory as a strong endorsement of the party’s leadership and governance.“We are happy that we were able to fulfil the trust shown in us by Modiji’s positivity and our leaders Amit Shahji, Naddaji, and Navinji,” he said.“For the first time, I did not criticise any leader or party, did not make accusations, but explained my plans. I campaigned 100% positively. It paid off. The people approved it,” Fadnavis added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Truly grateful to the people of Maharashtra for blessing an overwhelming mandate to BJP and MahaYuti in the Municipal Council and Nagar Panchayat elections. This remarkable success belongs to our dedicated Karyakartas; it is their hard work, commitment, and perseverance that has… <a href="https://t.co/WMjKutP4AO">pic.twitter.com/WMjKutP4AO</a>&mdash; Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis/status/2002733925064687754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 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/hindu-rickshaw-puller-wearing-red-thread-branded-raw-agent-assaulted-by-mob-in-bangladesh-1766322679454">Hindu rickshaw puller wearing red thread branded ‘RAW agent’, assaulted by mob in Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘People chose real Shiv Sena,’ says Eknath Shinde</h2>&nbsp;Shiv Sena leader and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde hailed the victory and said people chose the real Shiv Sena.&nbsp;“People have decided which is the real Shiv Sena. Our ideology is Balasaheb Thackeray. He would be happy today over this magnificent victory. This is a very big lesson for those who indulge in politics. The people reject those who reject them,” he said.Shinde said the Mahayuti would repeat its performance in upcoming municipal polls and reiterated that development remains the core agenda of the ruling alliance. He also brushed aside queries on Uddhav Thackeray allying with MNS leader and cousin Raj Thackeray saying it would have no impact since people have decided to vote for those who work.&nbsp;The local body poll results are a trailer of what is in store in the municipal corporation elections on January 15, said Shinde.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-after-all-shri-hanuman-finally-serves-replies-eam-when-asked-if-india-needs-more-than-one-jaishankar-1766243874365">‘After all, Shri Hanuman finally serves…,’ replies EAM when asked if India needs more than one Jaishankar? WATCH</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">महाराष्ट्र नगर पंचायत व नगर परिषद के चुनाव में महायुति को प्रचंड समर्थन देने के लिए प्रदेश की जनता का आभार। यह विजय मोदी जी के नेतृत्व में NDA की केंद्र व राज्य सरकार के हर वर्ग के कल्याण के विजन पर जनता का आशीर्वाद है। इस जीत पर मुख्यमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dev_Fadnavis</a> जी, उपमुख्यमंत्री…&mdash; Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/2002734409544298740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Cong, Shiv Sena (UBT) blame EC for ‘facilitating’ Mahayuti victory</h2>&nbsp;The Congress and the Shiv Sena (UBT) blamed the Election Commission for “facilitating” the victory of the Mahayuti.&nbsp;Ruffled by another loss, the Congress party also issued a warning to BJP allies. “The BJP’s success is a wake-up call for Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar... The BJP will 100 per cent expel these two allies,” said state Congress chief Harsh Vardhan Sapkal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trinamool-shielding-illegal-immigrants-time-to-end-maha-jungle-raj-in-bengal-pm-modi-1766239038996">Trinamool shielding illegal immigrants, time to end ‘maha jungle raj’ in Bengal: PM Modi</a>&nbsp;Polling for the 264 municipal councils and nagar panchayats of the state took place on December 2. On December 20, elections were held on around 20-plus municipal councils and nagar panchayats.&nbsp;In a terse statement, Sapkal “congratulated” the state Election Commission for “helping” the ruling Mahayuti alliance in the elections.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis thanked voters and party workers and said the results reflect public confidence in the BJP’s development agenda. He hailed the victory as a strong endorsement of the party’s leadership and governance.

The Bharatiya Janata Party-led ruling Mahayuti alliance was headed to a thumping victory in the Maharashtra local bodies, and the BJP is all set to emerge as the single largest party. Results for 288 Maharashtra Nagar Parishad and panchayat seats have been declared, in which the BJP has won 129. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis thanked voters and party workers and said the results reflect public confidence in the BJP’s development agenda. He hailed the victory as a strong endorsement of the party’s leadership and governance. “We are happy that we were able to fulfil the trust shown in us by Modiji’s positivity and our leaders Amit Shahji, Naddaji, and Navinji,” he said. “For the first time, I did not criticise any leader or party, did not make accusations, but explained my plans. I campaigned 100% positively. It paid off. The people approved it,” Fadnavis added.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis thanked voters and party workers and said the results reflect public confidence in the BJP’s development agenda. He hailed the victory as a strong endorsement of the party’s leadership and governance.

Mahayuti set to sweep Maharashtra local body polls, BJP becomes single-largest party

In 2025, key market trends shaping India's economy include robust Infrastructure Spending, a strong rebound in Private Consumption, significant growth in Manufacturing (PLI Scheme impact), and a booming Digital Economy (e-commerce, digital payments). Let's have a look at the top 7 trends.

Business year-ender 2025: Top 7 market trends that shaped India’s economy this year

The much-contested Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill has got President Droupadi Murmu's assent, according to the Rural Development Ministry. The Bill, which will replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), was passed by the Parliament this week after strong protests over some proposed changes, and naming it VB-G RAM G and omitting Mahatma Gandhi's name from the Rural Employment Scheme.&nbsp;Under the new law, rural households are entitled to 125 days of wage employment per year, up from 100, ensuring greater income stability and work predictability. The Act aims to transform rural employment into a development-focused program in line with the Centre’s Viksit Bharat @2047 vision.The ministry, in a statement, said that Anchored in the principles of empowerment, growth, convergence and saturation, the Act seeks to transform rural employment from a standalone welfare intervention into an integrated instrument of development.&nbsp;It strengthens income security for rural households, modernises governance and accountability, and links wage employment with the creation of durable and productive rural assets, thereby laying the foundation for a prosperous and resilient Rural Bharat.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-visa-centre-in-bangladesh-suspends-operations-in-chittagong-amid-unrest-bangladesh-indian-visa-centre-yunus-1766313094594">Indian visa centre in Bangladesh's Chittagong suspends operations amid unrest</a>&nbsp;The Act provides a statutory guarantee of not less than 125 days of wage employment per rural household in each financial year to households whose adult members volunteer to undertake unskilled manual work (Section 5(1)), said the statement.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Congress national president, Mallikarjun Kharge, condemned the new law, criticising the lack of empathy for rural labourers and the reduction in the Centre's contribution to rural employment. "MGNREGA is a lifeline for the poor. They are purposely destroying that, and they want to make the poor villagers and farm labourers slaves of the rich. That's why we fought to retain the MNREGA law, and all its provisions should remain as they are," he told to &nbsp;ANI.&nbsp;Opposition leaders had staged a 12-hour protest on the steps of the parliament, arguing the bill was hurried through both houses without proper debate. &nbsp;

The bill will replace the current rural employment scheme, MGNREGA, raising the guaranteed employment to 125 days per household annually.

The much-contested Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill has got President Droupadi Murmu's assent, according to the Rural Development Ministry. The Bill, which will replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), was passed by the Parliament this week after strong protests over some proposed changes, and naming it VB-G RAM G and omitting Mahatma Gandhi's name from the Rural Employment Scheme. Under the new law, rural households are entitled to 125 days of wage employment per year, up from 100, ensuring greater income stability and work predictability. The Act aims to transform rural employment into a development-focused program in line with the Centre’s Viksit Bharat @2047 vision. The ministry, in a statement, said that Anchored in the principles of empowerment, growth, convergence and saturation, the Act seeks to transform rural employment from a standalone welfare intervention into an integrated instrument of development. It strengthens income security for rural households, modernises governance and accountability, and links wage employment with the creation of durable and productive rural assets, thereby laying the foundation for a prosperous and resilient Rural Bharat. Also Read: Indian visa centre in Bangladesh's Chittagong suspends operations amid unrest The Act provides a statutory guarantee of not less than 125 days of wage employment per rural household in each financial year to households whose adult members volunteer to undertake unskilled manual work (Section 5(1)), said the statement. Meanwhile, the Congress national president, Mallikarjun Kharge, condemned the new law, criticising the lack of empathy for rural labourers and the reduction in the Centre's contribution to rural employment. "MGNREGA is a lifeline for the poor. They are purposely destroying that, and they want to make the poor villagers and farm labourers slaves of the rich. That's why we fought to retain the MNREGA law, and all its provisions should remain as they are," he told to ANI. Opposition leaders had staged a 12-hour protest on the steps of the parliament, arguing the bill was hurried through both houses without proper debate.

The bill will replace the current rural employment scheme, MGNREGA, raising the guaranteed employment to 125 days per household annually.

VB-G RAM G bill becomes law with President Murmu’s assent, set to replace MGNREGA

Afghanistan’s Minister of Public Health, Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, has praised India’s long standing support for Afghan healthcare, highlighting medical visas as a “vital humanitarian channel” during a visit to New Delhi. Speaking exclusively to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Jalali noted, “Afghans have been regularly traveling to India for medical treatment for a long time.”&nbsp;India has established a thalassaemia centre and a modern diagnostic centre and replaced the heating system at Kabul’s Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health. It will also construct a 30-bed hospital in Kabul’s Bagrami district, including an oncology centre, a trauma centre, and five maternity health clinics.Jalali welcomed India’s contributions to Afghan health infrastructure, describing the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health in Kabul as “one of the major paediatric hospitals in Afghanistan.” He said Afghanistan had “previously requested [the] honourable Indian Chargé d'affaires... regarding strengthening the infrastructure,” and received promises of a CT scan machine and further support.&nbsp;Around 75 prosthetic limbs (Jaipur foot) have been fitted for Afghan nationals, with India continuing to provide medical assistance and treatment. During Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit, India gifted 20 ambulances to Afghanistan. Full interview:&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>India Ties</h2> Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India ties Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: I would like to convey my regards to viewers and listeners of WION. I've travelled to India for health issues and discussions. Afghanistan values its long standing and constructive relationship with India. Our engagement with India has traditionally been people centric, particularly in health, education and humanitarian assistance. We see India as an important regional partner and our current interaction reflects a mutual interest in pragmatic cooperation based on respect, humanitarian consideration and shared responsibility.&nbsp;<h2>Meeting with Indian Health Minister &nbsp;</h2>Sidhant Sibal: Following your recent visit to India and meetings with Union Health Minister JP Nadda, what specific new areas of cooperation in healthcare infrastructure and medical supplies have been agreed upon between Afghanistan and India?Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: First of all, I would like to state that this was my first visit to India since the establishment of the Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan, I was the first health minister to travel to India. The discussions with His Excellency, the Minister of Health and Family Welfare, were focused on strengthening cooperation and health infrastructure, medical equipment support, regulatory coordination and capacity building.&nbsp;Both sides explored collaboration in hospital development,&nbsp;medical supply, pharmaceutical regulation and training of health professionals in India. Additionally, I've received promises on supply of oncological and cancer treatment medicines, which will be supplied on the immediate basis.&nbsp;<h2>Medical visas</h2>&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: India continues to facilitate medical visas for Afghan patients in Indian hospitals. What are your views on expanding this program, and how many Afghan patients have benefited from it in 2025?&nbsp;Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: Afghans have been&nbsp;regularly traveling to India for medical treatment for a long time. Medical visas have been a vital humanitarian channel. We have recently seen many visas issued for Afghan nationals seeking medical treatment in India. While exact figures vary, thousands of&nbsp;Afghan patients have benefited from this channel in recent years.<h2> India's support to Afghan healthcare infra</h2> Sidhant Sibal: Projects like the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health in Kabul, thalassemia centers, and diagnostic facilities have been supported by India. What further infrastructure projects would Afghanistan prioritize in collaboration with India?Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: Indira Gandhi hospital is one of the major pediatric hospitals in Afghanistan. We have previously requested honorable Indian Chargé d'affaires to Afghanistan regarding strengthening the infrastructure. We have received a promise&nbsp;of CT scan machine and infrastructure strengthening support to Indira Gandhi pediatric hospital. When it comes to overall infrastructure cooperation with India, Afghanistan would prioritize tertiary health projects, including specialized hospital diagnostic centers, cancer treatment facilities and mother and child health care services with India.&nbsp;<h2>Capacity building</h2>&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: Capacity-building initiatives, such as training Afghan doctors and organizing medical camps like the Jaipur Foot Camp, have been discussed. What plans are in place to send Indian medical teams to Afghanistan or train more Afghan health professionals in India? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: Afghanistan has been suffering in war and instability for 45 years. We have previously received medical support from India. The capacity building remains a top priority for Afghanistan, including training of conductors in India and travel of the Indian doctor delegation to Afghanistan to establish medical support camps and joint working groups.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Ayurveda</h2> Sidhant Sibal: India and Afghanistan have explored cooperation in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Unani. How do you envision integrating these with Afghanistan's health system? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: India has been engaged in multiple projects in Afghanistan. Some of these projects were incomplete projects from the past that India vowed to complete. When it comes to our cooperation with India in traditional medicine and Ayurveda, the cooperation with India can support research, regulation, safe integration of traditional medicine into our modern healthcare system. The meeting with India's counterpart, the Minister of Ayush, was very fruitful. We have received a lot of commitments from them. Some of them were establishing a Traditional Medicine Institute and Research Center in Afghanistan, also providing us technical support and the Indian curriculum to be replicated in our curriculum under the Minister of Public Health.<h2> Diversification</h2> Sidhant Sibal: Afghanistan has historically relied on multiple routes for medical imports. With recent disruptions in supplies from Pakistan, how has India stepped in to ensure uninterrupted access to essential pharmaceuticals? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: As you might be aware, Afghanistan is a landlocked country. Our market was controlled by six or seven countries, where Pakistan had a major market share. Due to the recent deterioration of our relationship, we were struggling with pharmaceutical supply to our market. India has helped to ensure continuity of essential supplies, alternatives routes, and solutions, and it has helped us to reduce dependency on a single corridor. During our visit to India, we have managed to meet several pharmaceutical production companies to work with them, filling the gap of pharmaceuticals and the Afghanistan market.&nbsp;<h2>Pakistan</h2> Sidhant Sibal: How is Afghanistan delinking itself from Pakistan on health care.Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: Afghanistan has been through lots of hardship. However, we still do have good infrastructure in Afghanistan, we do have good doctors. But when it comes to the capacity building of our doctors and the supply of pharmaceuticals and equipment, we are trying to diversify our partnership with several countries. As we speak, my deputy minister for Food and Drug has traveled to another country. I have traveled here to India. So we are relying on India and other partners to fill in the gap that's there in our market.&nbsp;<h2>Fake Drug Issue</h2> Sidhant Sibal: Fake or low-quality pharmaceutical products entering Afghanistan, how big it is a worry Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: It is a serious concern, indeed, trying to strengthen regulation, inspection and laboratory testing to tackle this problem. Additionally, my deputy minister has had a trip to India previously, where we have spoken about mutual cooperation and tackling the fake and low quality medicine supply to our market. Since I've taken over the stewardship of the Ministry of Public Health, we have given this issue serious attention, and we have established a comprehensive structure within our food and drug authority to tackle this problem.<h2> Women's health care</h2> Sidhant Sibal: What is your take on women's access to health services? Reports say restrictions are present on women health care workers? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: When it comes to&nbsp;women's reach to the health services, I want to state that the Afghan nation is made of both women and men. Women also fall sick and they need health service. In&nbsp;Afghanistan's health sector, we have recruited a huge number of female health workers, starting right from midwives to specialist doctors. We are working on expanding the health coverage or outreach to both women and children in remote areas of Afghanistan. We are also trying to adjust health services according to our necessity, Afghan culture and Islamic principles&nbsp;<h2>India-Afghanistan ties</h2>&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: Lets hope, India, Afghanistan have strong ties in future, and firm it upMawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: My&nbsp;visit to India, as I mentioned earlier, was the first visit of the Health Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. I'm here to resolve the problems of my nation, and our relationship with India has resulted in outcomes beyond our expectations. I'm looking forward to expanding this partnership, because the relationship between India and Afghanistan is deep-rooted and people-centric, and it's based on humanitarian factors. I'm looking forward to expanding on this cooperation when it comes to pharmaceutical supplies to capacity building, and hospital infrastructure.

India has established a thalassaemia centre and a modern diagnostic centre at Kabul’s Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health. It will also construct a 30-bed hospital in Kabul’s Bagrami district, including an oncology centre, a trauma centre, and five maternity health clinics.

Afghanistan’s Minister of Public Health, Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, has praised India’s long standing support for Afghan healthcare, highlighting medical visas as a “vital humanitarian channel” during a visit to New Delhi. Speaking exclusively to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Jalali noted, “Afghans have been regularly traveling to India for medical treatment for a long time.” India has established a thalassaemia centre and a modern diagnostic centre and replaced the heating system at Kabul’s Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health. It will also construct a 30-bed hospital in Kabul’s Bagrami district, including an oncology centre, a trauma centre, and five maternity health clinics. Jalali welcomed India’s contributions to Afghan health infrastructure, describing the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health in Kabul as “one of the major paediatric hospitals in Afghanistan.” He said Afghanistan had “previously requested [the] honourable Indian Chargé d'affaires... regarding strengthening the infrastructure,” and received promises of a CT scan machine and further support. Around 75 prosthetic limbs (Jaipur foot) have been fitted for Afghan nationals, with India continuing to provide medical assistance and treatment. During Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit, India gifted 20 ambulances to Afghanistan. Full interview: India Ties Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India ties Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: I would like to convey my regards to viewers and listeners of WION. I've travelled to India for health issues and discussions. Afghanistan values its long standing and constructive relationship with India. Our engagement with India has traditionally been people centric, particularly in health, education and humanitarian assistance. We see India as an important regional partner and our current interaction reflects a mutual interest in pragmatic cooperation based on respect, humanitarian consideration and shared responsibility. Meeting with Indian Health Minister Sidhant Sibal: Following your recent visit to India and meetings with Union Health Minister JP Nadda, what specific new areas of cooperation in healthcare infrastructure and medical supplies have been agreed upon between Afghanistan and India? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: First of all, I would like to state that this was my first visit to India since the establishment of the Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan, I was the first health minister to travel to India. The discussions with His Excellency, the Minister of Health and Family Welfare, were focused on strengthening cooperation and health infrastructure, medical equipment support, regulatory coordination and capacity building. Both sides explored collaboration in hospital development, medical supply, pharmaceutical regulation and training of health professionals in India. Additionally, I've received promises on supply of oncological and cancer treatment medicines, which will be supplied on the immediate basis. Medical visas Sidhant Sibal: India continues to facilitate medical visas for Afghan patients in Indian hospitals. What are your views on expanding this program, and how many Afghan patients have benefited from it in 2025? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: Afghans have been regularly traveling to India for medical treatment for a long time. Medical visas have been a vital humanitarian channel. We have recently seen many visas issued for Afghan nationals seeking medical treatment in India. While exact figures vary, thousands of Afghan patients have benefited from this channel in recent years. India's support to Afghan healthcare infra Sidhant Sibal: Projects like the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health in Kabul, thalassemia centers, and diagnostic facilities have been supported by India. What further infrastructure projects would Afghanistan prioritize in collaboration with India? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: Indira Gandhi hospital is one of the major pediatric hospitals in Afghanistan. We have previously requested honorable Indian Chargé d'affaires to Afghanistan regarding strengthening the infrastructure. We have received a promise of CT scan machine and infrastructure strengthening support to Indira Gandhi pediatric hospital. When it comes to overall infrastructure cooperation with India, Afghanistan would prioritize tertiary health projects, including specialized hospital diagnostic centers, cancer treatment facilities and mother and child health care services with India. Capacity building Sidhant Sibal: Capacity-building initiatives, such as training Afghan doctors and organizing medical camps like the Jaipur Foot Camp, have been discussed. What plans are in place to send Indian medical teams to Afghanistan or train more Afghan health professionals in India? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: Afghanistan has been suffering in war and instability for 45 years. We have previously received medical support from India. The capacity building remains a top priority for Afghanistan, including training of conductors in India and travel of the Indian doctor delegation to Afghanistan to establish medical support camps and joint working groups. Ayurveda Sidhant Sibal: India and Afghanistan have explored cooperation in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Unani. How do you envision integrating these with Afghanistan's health system? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: India has been engaged in multiple projects in Afghanistan. Some of these projects were incomplete projects from the past that India vowed to complete. When it comes to our cooperation with India in traditional medicine and Ayurveda, the cooperation with India can support research, regulation, safe integration of traditional medicine into our modern healthcare system. The meeting with India's counterpart, the Minister of Ayush, was very fruitful. We have received a lot of commitments from them. Some of them were establishing a Traditional Medicine Institute and Research Center in Afghanistan, also providing us technical support and the Indian curriculum to be replicated in our curriculum under the Minister of Public Health. Diversification Sidhant Sibal: Afghanistan has historically relied on multiple routes for medical imports. With recent disruptions in supplies from Pakistan, how has India stepped in to ensure uninterrupted access to essential pharmaceuticals? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: As you might be aware, Afghanistan is a landlocked country. Our market was controlled by six or seven countries, where Pakistan had a major market share. Due to the recent deterioration of our relationship, we were struggling with pharmaceutical supply to our market. India has helped to ensure continuity of essential supplies, alternatives routes, and solutions, and it has helped us to reduce dependency on a single corridor. During our visit to India, we have managed to meet several pharmaceutical production companies to work with them, filling the gap of pharmaceuticals and the Afghanistan market. Pakistan Sidhant Sibal: How is Afghanistan delinking itself from Pakistan on health care. Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: Afghanistan has been through lots of hardship. However, we still do have good infrastructure in Afghanistan, we do have good doctors. But when it comes to the capacity building of our doctors and the supply of pharmaceuticals and equipment, we are trying to diversify our partnership with several countries. As we speak, my deputy minister for Food and Drug has traveled to another country. I have traveled here to India. So we are relying on India and other partners to fill in the gap that's there in our market. Fake Drug Issue Sidhant Sibal: Fake or low-quality pharmaceutical products entering Afghanistan, how big it is a worry Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: It is a serious concern, indeed, trying to strengthen regulation, inspection and laboratory testing to tackle this problem. Additionally, my deputy minister has had a trip to India previously, where we have spoken about mutual cooperation and tackling the fake and low quality medicine supply to our market. Since I've taken over the stewardship of the Ministry of Public Health, we have given this issue serious attention, and we have established a comprehensive structure within our food and drug authority to tackle this problem. Women's health care Sidhant Sibal: What is your take on women's access to health services? Reports say restrictions are present on women health care workers? Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: When it comes to women's reach to the health services, I want to state that the Afghan nation is made of both women and men. Women also fall sick and they need health service. In Afghanistan's health sector, we have recruited a huge number of female health workers, starting right from midwives to specialist doctors. We are working on expanding the health coverage or outreach to both women and children in remote areas of Afghanistan. We are also trying to adjust health services according to our necessity, Afghan culture and Islamic principles India-Afghanistan ties Sidhant Sibal: Lets hope, India, Afghanistan have strong ties in future, and firm it up Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali: My visit to India, as I mentioned earlier, was the first visit of the Health Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. I'm here to resolve the problems of my nation, and our relationship with India has resulted in outcomes beyond our expectations. I'm looking forward to expanding this partnership, because the relationship between India and Afghanistan is deep-rooted and people-centric, and it's based on humanitarian factors. I'm looking forward to expanding on this cooperation when it comes to pharmaceutical supplies to capacity building, and hospital infrastructure.

India has established a thalassaemia centre and a modern diagnostic centre at Kabul’s Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health. It will also construct a 30-bed hospital in Kabul’s Bagrami district, including an oncology centre, a trauma centre, and five maternity health clinics.

Afghan Health Minister Noor Jalal Jalali praises India’s ‘long-standing’ healthcare support

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced on Sunday that his government has made the recitation of verses from the Bhagavad Gita compulsory in all the schools across the state. The initiative is to connect students with Indian culture, moral values, and philosophy of life, ushering for their over all development.&nbsp;In a post on social media platform X, Uttarakhand CM Dhami said, “Our government has made the recitation of verses from the Gita mandatory in the schools of the state. This initiative is paving the way for the all-round development of students by connecting them with Indian culture, moral values, and philosophy of life.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">हमारी सरकार द्वारा प्रदेश के स्कूलों में गीता के श्लोकों के पाठ को अनिवार्य किया गया है। यह पहल विद्यार्थियों को भारतीय संस्कृति, नैतिक मूल्यों और जीवन-दर्शन से जोड़ते हुए उनके सर्वांगीण विकास का मार्ग प्रशस्त कर रही है। <a href="https://t.co/RbL7UE3E5w">pic.twitter.com/RbL7UE3E5w</a>&mdash; Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) <a href="https://twitter.com/pushkardhami/status/2002589765313691884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Uttarakhand Chief Minister took to social media on Sunday to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the state. In the post, he highlighted the historic Kattarmal Sun Temple, which is situated in the Almora district, dedicated to Lord Suryadev, who is a testament to the excellent architecture and profound devotion of the Katyuri era.<h3>CM Dhami highlights the temple's importance</h3>CM Dhami highlighted the importance of the temple, saying it stands as a symbol of Uttarakhand’s rich history and lively cultural legacy. He also urged tourists and devotees to visit the ancient site and experience its heritage.&nbsp;CM Dhami also said in a post on X, "The historic Kattarmal Sun Temple, located in Almora district, is a vibrant example of the excellent architecture and profound devotion of the Katyuri era. This ancient heritage dedicated to Lord Suryadev reflects Uttarakhand's rich cultural tradition and glorious history. During your winter journey, be sure to visit this sacred site."&nbsp;Earlier, the Chief Minister noted that cultural programmes such as Mahakauthig are vital for safeguarding the state’s traditions while bringing together Uttarakhandis living outside the hill state on a shared platform. Speaking at the seven-day Mahakauthig organised by the Parvatiya Cultural Society at Noida Stadium in Gautam Buddh Nagar, Dhami said it was a proud moment that people from Uttarakhand continue to preserve their folk culture and traditions even while living elsewhere. He called migrant Uttarakhandis associated with the society the state’s “true brand ambassadors.”

In the post, he highlighted the historic Kattarmal Sun Temple, which is situated in the Almora district, dedicated to Lord Suryadev, who is a testament to the excellent architecture and profound devotion of the Katyuri era.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced on Sunday that his government has made the recitation of verses from the Bhagavad Gita compulsory in all the schools across the state. The initiative is to connect students with Indian culture, moral values, and philosophy of life, ushering for their over all development. In a post on social media platform X, Uttarakhand CM Dhami said, “Our government has made the recitation of verses from the Gita mandatory in the schools of the state. This initiative is paving the way for the all-round development of students by connecting them with Indian culture, moral values, and philosophy of life.”

In the post, he highlighted the historic Kattarmal Sun Temple, which is situated in the Almora district, dedicated to Lord Suryadev, who is a testament to the excellent architecture and profound devotion of the Katyuri era.

Bhagavad Gita's verses to be mandatory in Uttarakhand schools, announces CM Dhami

The 40-day period of severe winter cold in Jammu and Kashmir, known locally as Chillai Kalan, has commenced with rain and snow in many areas. Chillai Kalan started on December 21 and will end on January 31. It is a period marked by sub-zero temperatures, frozen water bodies, and landscapes covered in frost and snow. The region typically experiences significant snowfall, disrupting daily life. During this time, temperatures often drop to extremely low levels, leading to the freezing of water bodies, including parts of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar. Along with Srinagar, Anantnag is another area in J&amp;K which experienced the first rainfall of the season, marking the beginning of Chillai Kalan. In Sonamarg, Ganderbal district, residents and tourists enjoyed a winter wonderland as snow settled on vehicles, buildings, and roads. Sonamarg in the Kashmir Valley witnessed the first snowfall of the season on Sunday, covering the region in a thick blanket of white. At the same time, Srinagar continues to experience a persistent cold wave with foggy mornings. Srinagar recorded a dip in temperature, with a -4°C change from December 20, as the cold wave continues in the city, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Heavy fog is visible in the visuals near Dal Lake, with boat rides and sightseeing still operating. Dense fog has been reported over areas like Dal Lake, although boat rides and sightseeing continue, giving the city a picturesque winter ambience. Authorities have advised residents and visitors to take precautions against the cold and monitor weather updates, especially in areas prone to sudden&nbsp;

In Sonamarg, Ganderbal district, residents and tourists enjoyed a winter wonderland as snow settled on vehicles, buildings, and roads.

The 40-day period of severe winter cold in Jammu and Kashmir, known locally as Chillai Kalan, has commenced with rain and snow in many areas. Chillai Kalan started on December 21 and will end on January 31. It is a period marked by sub-zero temperatures, frozen water bodies, and landscapes covered in frost and snow. The region typically experiences significant snowfall, disrupting daily life. During this time, temperatures often drop to extremely low levels, leading to the freezing of water bodies, including parts of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar. Along with Srinagar, Anantnag is another area in J&K which experienced the first rainfall of the season, marking the beginning of Chillai Kalan. In Sonamarg, Ganderbal district, residents and tourists enjoyed a winter wonderland as snow settled on vehicles, buildings, and roads. Sonamarg in the Kashmir Valley witnessed the first snowfall of the season on Sunday, covering the region in a thick blanket of white. At the same time, Srinagar continues to experience a persistent cold wave with foggy mornings. Srinagar recorded a dip in temperature, with a -4°C change from December 20, as the cold wave continues in the city, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Heavy fog is visible in the visuals near Dal Lake, with boat rides and sightseeing still operating. Dense fog has been reported over areas like Dal Lake, although boat rides and sightseeing continue, giving the city a picturesque winter ambience. Authorities have advised residents and visitors to take precautions against the cold and monitor weather updates, especially in areas prone to sudden

In Sonamarg, Ganderbal district, residents and tourists enjoyed a winter wonderland as snow settled on vehicles, buildings, and roads.

Chillai Kalan starts with rainfall and snow in Kashmir Valley

Travelling by train for longer distances in India is going to be costlier, as the Railways has announced a fare hike that will come into effect from December 26, though the cost of travel up to 215 kilometres has not been increased. As a result, longer journeys would cost more. The fare for suburban trains has also not been raised at all. The cost of general class tickets up to a distance of 215 kilometres will not change. But distances more than 215 km would cost an additional 1 paisa per km. For non-air-conditioned coaches on mail or express trains, the hike will be 2 paise per km. The cost of travel in air-conditioned coaches has also been hiked by 2 paise per km.&nbsp;The new fare hike means that a 500-kilometre journey in non-air-conditioned coaches will cost ₹10 more after the new rates take effect. The same additional cost will be borne by those travelling in AC compartments.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Railway has announced a new fare structure effective from December 26, 2025, with no fare increase for journeys under 215 km in Ordinary Class. For journeys beyond 215 km, there will be a fare hike of 1 paise per km in Ordinary Class, and 2 paise per km for Mail/Express… <a href="https://t.co/lD4fUQ8eeK">pic.twitter.com/lD4fUQ8eeK</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2002632444533747859?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 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/india-news/-after-all-shri-hanuman-finally-serves-replies-eam-when-asked-if-india-needs-more-than-one-jaishankar-1766243874365">‘After all, Shri Hanuman finally serves…,’ replies EAM when asked if India needs more than one Jaishankar? WATCH</a>&nbsp;Railways, which is a lifeline for the majority of Indians, has said that it has expanded its network and operations significantly over the past decade and is also increasing its manpower. As a result of the new fare hike, the earnings of Railways are projected to go up by Rs 600 crore annually.&nbsp;The Railways said its manpower cost has increased to Rs 1,15,000 crore and pension cost to Rs 60,000 crore, while the total cost of operations increased to Rs 2,63,000 crore in the 2024-25 financial year.Railways has said it is focusing on increasing cargo loading besides passenger fare hike to meet its manpower cost hike.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trinamool-shielding-illegal-immigrants-time-to-end-maha-jungle-raj-in-bengal-pm-modi-1766239038996">Trinamool shielding illegal immigrants, time to end ‘maha jungle raj’ in Bengal: PM Modi</a>&nbsp;Earlier, the Railways hiked fares in July. The fare in non-air-conditioned class in Mail and Express trains was hiked by 1 paisa per km and travel in air-conditioned classes became dearer by 2 paise per km.Before that, train fare was hiked on January 1, 2020.&nbsp;In 2020, second-class fare for ordinary and mail/express trains increased by 1 paisa/km and 2 paise/km, respectively. Fares in sleeper classes and all AC classes went up by 2 paise/km and 4 paise/km, respectively.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/osman-hadi-buried-next-to-kazi-nazrul-islam-un-calls-for-protection-of-electoral-freedom-ahead-of-bangladesh-polls-1766233589079">Osman Hadi buried next to Kazi Nazrul Islam; UN calls for protection of electoral freedom ahead of Bangladesh polls</a>

Railways, which is a lifeline for the majority of Indians, has said that it has expanded its network and operations significantly over the past decade and is also increasing its manpower. As a result of the fare hike, the earnings of Railways are projected to go up by Rs 600 crore annually.

Travelling by train for longer distances in India is going to be costlier, as the Railways has announced a fare hike that will come into effect from December 26, though the cost of travel up to 215 kilometres has not been increased. As a result, longer journeys would cost more. The fare for suburban trains has also not been raised at all. The cost of general class tickets up to a distance of 215 kilometres will not change. But distances more than 215 km would cost an additional 1 paisa per km. For non-air-conditioned coaches on mail or express trains, the hike will be 2 paise per km. The cost of travel in air-conditioned coaches has also been hiked by 2 paise per km. The new fare hike means that a 500-kilometre journey in non-air-conditioned coaches will cost ₹10 more after the new rates take effect. The same additional cost will be borne by those travelling in AC compartments.

Railways, which is a lifeline for the majority of Indians, has said that it has expanded its network and operations significantly over the past decade and is also increasing its manpower. As a result of the fare hike, the earnings of Railways are projected to go up by Rs 600 crore annually.

Train travel to get costlier as Railways hikes fares. Check new fare structure

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Train travel to get costlier as Railways hikes fares. Check new fare structure