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As part of efforts to further strengthen its long-range artillery capabilities post Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army is looking to induct 120 km strike range Pinaka rockets in a proposal worth around Rs 2500 crore.&nbsp;The rockets with the capability to strike targets at 120 kilometres would be developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, and the first trials are planned to be carried out in the near future, and then it would be developed with the Development-cum-Production Partners who would be chosen after a bidding process, defence officials told ANI. The Army's proposal for approval for the project is set to be taken up for clearance by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) very soon, sources said.&nbsp;The Rajnath Singh-led Defence Ministry has been pushing the case for developing the indigenous multi-barrel rocket launchers which have also been exported to friendly foreign countries in the recent past.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-we-want-made-in-india-aircraft-aviation-minister-tells-lok-sabha-says-govt-can-cap-airfares-only-in-extraordinary-situations-1765550757769">‘We want Made-in-India aircraft’: Aviation Minister tells Lok Sabha, says govt can cap airfares only in extraordinary situations</a>&nbsp;The new 120 km strike range rockets of the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system would be capable of being launched from the same launcher, which at present can hit targets at 40 km and 75 plus km, the officials said.&nbsp;The Indian Army is also looking at strengthening the existing Pinaka regiments and had recently placed orders for buying the area denial ammunition for these rocket regiments.Earlier this year, the Ministry of Defence inked contracts with Economic Explosive Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL) for the procurement of Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 (DPICM) and High Explosive Pre Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-1 (Enhanced) rockets respectively for PINAKA Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) at a total cost of Rs 10,147 crore.&nbsp;In addition, a contract for upgrades in SHAKTI Software has also been signed with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.&nbsp;The Pinaka Multiple Launcher Rocket System (MLRS) is a long-range artillery weapon developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).&nbsp;Known for its rapid response and precision, the Pinaka system enhances the Indian Army's capability in modern warfare. The DRDO is already in the advanced stages of developing a 120-km strike version of the Pinaka rocket and is expected to conduct its first test in the next financial year.&nbsp;One of the biggest success stories among Indigenous weapon systems, the Army is fully backing the missiles, as Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi has already made clear that, as soon as longer-range versions of the Pinaka are ready, the force might drop plans for other alternate weapons.&nbsp;The Pinaka has been a major success story in the export sector as it has been bought by Armenia, while many European countries, including France, are showing interest in it.

The new 120 km strike range rockets of the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system would be capable of being launched from the same launcher, which at present can hit targets at 40 km and 75 plus km.

As part of efforts to further strengthen its long-range artillery capabilities post Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army is looking to induct 120 km strike range Pinaka rockets in a proposal worth around Rs 2500 crore. The rockets with the capability to strike targets at 120 kilometres would be developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, and the first trials are planned to be carried out in the near future, and then it would be developed with the Development-cum-Production Partners who would be chosen after a bidding process, defence officials told ANI. The Army's proposal for approval for the project is set to be taken up for clearance by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) very soon, sources said. The Rajnath Singh-led Defence Ministry has been pushing the case for developing the indigenous multi-barrel rocket launchers which have also been exported to friendly foreign countries in the recent past. Also Read: ‘We want Made-in-India aircraft’: Aviation Minister tells Lok Sabha, says govt can cap airfares only in extraordinary situations The new 120 km strike range rockets of the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system would be capable of being launched from the same launcher, which at present can hit targets at 40 km and 75 plus km, the officials said. The Indian Army is also looking at strengthening the existing Pinaka regiments and had recently placed orders for buying the area denial ammunition for these rocket regiments. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Defence inked contracts with Economic Explosive Limited (EEL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL) for the procurement of Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 (DPICM) and High Explosive Pre Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-1 (Enhanced) rockets respectively for PINAKA Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) at a total cost of Rs 10,147 crore. In addition, a contract for upgrades in SHAKTI Software has also been signed with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The Pinaka Multiple Launcher Rocket System (MLRS) is a long-range artillery weapon developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Known for its rapid response and precision, the Pinaka system enhances the Indian Army's capability in modern warfare. The DRDO is already in the advanced stages of developing a 120-km strike version of the Pinaka rocket and is expected to conduct its first test in the next financial year. One of the biggest success stories among Indigenous weapon systems, the Army is fully backing the missiles, as Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi has already made clear that, as soon as longer-range versions of the Pinaka are ready, the force might drop plans for other alternate weapons. The Pinaka has been a major success story in the export sector as it has been bought by Armenia, while many European countries, including France, are showing interest in it.

The new 120 km strike range rockets of the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system would be capable of being launched from the same launcher, which at present can hit targets at 40 km and 75 plus km.

Indian Army submits proposal to acquire 120-km long-range guided Pinaka rockets

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Friday (Dec 12) said that the government will roll out a programme to make aircraft in the country, stressing that India needs domestically manufactured aircraft to fulfil the growing demands of the aviation sector. He informed the parliament that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is exploring the possibility with the Russian Aircraft Company Sukhoi SJ 100 to get the technologies to make the aircraft in the country.&nbsp;Responding to a private member resolution, Appropriate Measures to Regulate Airfare in the Country, the minister stressed that the availability of aircraft is a serious issue, as few global players are manufacturing these aircraft.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rs-7500-up-to-500-km-centre-caps-ticket-prices-as-indigo-crisis-deepens-airlines-airfares-airindia-1765022186442">Rs 7500 up to 500 KM: Centre caps ticket prices as IndiGo crisis deepens</a>&nbsp;On the subject of the government's mechanism to regulate airfare, Naidu said that while India's aviation operates in a deregulated environment, the government retains authority to cap airfares during extraordinary circumstances under the Aircraft Act.&nbsp;"While India’s aviation market is deregulated, the government retains powers under the Aircraft Act to cap fares in extraordinary situations. Examples include COVID-19, Mahakumbh, Pahalgam-Srinagar crises, and the recent Indigo disruption."&nbsp;On December 6, the Centre had put an upper limit on the ticket prices for economy-class domestic travel, fixing maximum airfares based on stage length to prevent overcharging during the IndiGo crisis. For routes up to 500 km, the fare cap is set at Rs 7,500, while flights between 500 and 1,000 km cannot exceed Rs 12,000. Routes covering 1,000 to 1,500 km have a maximum limit of Rs 15,000, and any journey beyond 1,500 km is capped at Rs 18,000.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-pax-silica-initiative-the-us-led-grouping-that-excluded-india-china-us-modi-trump-jinping-trade-war-tariffs-semiconductor-us-hegemony-1765541403919">What is Pax Silica Initiative? The US-led grouping that excluded India</a>&nbsp;He further said the government intervenes only to protect passengers' interests while making sure that competition in the market remains unaffected and new players can enter the market. “We have seen that multiple airlines have come in, and multiple challenges for airlines. But the idea still remains that if the civil aviation and aviation sector if it needs to grow, the first and foremost thing is to keep it deregulated, so that the competition survives and more players can come in,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-ready-to-discuss-delhi-air-pollution-in-parliament-something-concrete-should-come-out-of-it-says-priyanka-gandhi-rahul-gandhi-1765547093801">Centre ‘ready to discuss’ Delhi air pollution in Parliament; 'Something concrete should come out of it,' says Priyanka Gandhi</a>&nbsp;Naidu's comments in the Lok Sabha came following a massive disruption in airline operations in the country triggered by the dominant domestic player IndiGo cancelling over thousands of flights between December 2 to 9, leading to crowding of airports and thousands of travellers being stranded across the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On the subject of the government's mechanism to regulate airfare, Naidu said that while India's aviation operates in a deregulated environment, the government retains authority to cap airfares during extraordinary circumstances under the Aircraft Act.



Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Friday (Dec 12) said that the government will roll out a programme to make aircraft in the country, stressing that India needs domestically manufactured aircraft to fulfil the growing demands of the aviation sector. He informed the parliament that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is exploring the possibility with the Russian Aircraft Company Sukhoi SJ 100 to get the technologies to make the aircraft in the country. Responding to a private member resolution, Appropriate Measures to Regulate Airfare in the Country, the minister stressed that the availability of aircraft is a serious issue, as few global players are manufacturing these aircraft. Also Read: Rs 7500 up to 500 KM: Centre caps ticket prices as IndiGo crisis deepens On the subject of the government's mechanism to regulate airfare, Naidu said that while India's aviation operates in a deregulated environment, the government retains authority to cap airfares during extraordinary circumstances under the Aircraft Act. "While India’s aviation market is deregulated, the government retains powers under the Aircraft Act to cap fares in extraordinary situations. Examples include COVID-19, Mahakumbh, Pahalgam-Srinagar crises, and the recent Indigo disruption." On December 6, the Centre had put an upper limit on the ticket prices for economy-class domestic travel, fixing maximum airfares based on stage length to prevent overcharging during the IndiGo crisis. For routes up to 500 km, the fare cap is set at Rs 7,500, while flights between 500 and 1,000 km cannot exceed Rs 12,000. Routes covering 1,000 to 1,500 km have a maximum limit of Rs 15,000, and any journey beyond 1,500 km is capped at Rs 18,000. Also Read: What is Pax Silica Initiative? The US-led grouping that excluded India He further said the government intervenes only to protect passengers' interests while making sure that competition in the market remains unaffected and new players can enter the market. “We have seen that multiple airlines have come in, and multiple challenges for airlines. But the idea still remains that if the civil aviation and aviation sector if it needs to grow, the first and foremost thing is to keep it deregulated, so that the competition survives and more players can come in,” he said. Also Read: Centre ‘ready to discuss’ Delhi air pollution in Parliament; 'Something concrete should come out of it,' says Priyanka Gandhi Naidu's comments in the Lok Sabha came following a massive disruption in airline operations in the country triggered by the dominant domestic player IndiGo cancelling over thousands of flights between December 2 to 9, leading to crowding of airports and thousands of travellers being stranded across the country.

The Minister stressed that the country needs made-in-India aircraft to address the growing demands of the aviation sector.&nbsp;

‘We want Made-in-India aircraft’: Aviation Minister tells Lok Sabha, says govt can cap airfares only in extraordinary situations

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday (Dec 12) said that the centre is ready to debate the Delhi air pollution crisis in the parliament, as the national capital is finding it difficult to catch a breath under a dense layer of smog with the air quality hovering in the 'very poor' category. Rijiju's statement marked a rare occasion of agreement between the treasury benches.&nbsp;Responding to demands raised during Zero Hour, Rijiju stressed that the government had “from day one" maintained its willingness to discuss all important matters and incorporate suggestions from all members, including the principal opposition party.“The government, from day one, had made our position very clear that on all important matters, the government is ready to discuss and also to find a solution, taking along the suggestions from all the members, including the principal opposition party led by Rahul Gandhi ji," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-pax-silica-initiative-the-us-led-grouping-that-excluded-india-china-us-modi-trump-jinping-trade-war-tariffs-semiconductor-us-hegemony-1765541403919">What is Pax Silica Initiative? The US-led grouping that excluded India</a>&nbsp;Rijiju’s statement came after Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi called for an in-depth, forward-looking discussion on the air pollution crisis, calling on all parties to avoid a blame game and instead work jointly toward solutions.&nbsp;“Most of our major cities are living under a blanket of poisonous air. Millions of children are getting lung disease. Their future is being destroyed. People are getting cancer. Older people are struggling to breathe," Gandhi said.&nbsp;Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed Rahul Gandhi's demand seeking an extensive debate in Parliament on the air pollution issue, saying that the issue needed to be addressed urgently and that the government should come up with a good action plan.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengal-sir-over-5-mn-voters-identified-for-likely-exclusion-from-voter-list-election-bjp-congress-tmc-rahul-gandhi-modi-1765537185482">West Bengal SIR: Over 5 million voters identified for likely exclusion from voter list</a>&nbsp;"I completely agree, and I think everyone agrees. The government also said we should all discuss it and develop an action plan. It is increasing every year. We discuss all other topics, so this should also be discussed, and something concrete should come out of it. If the government makes a good action plan and takes it forward, it will be great," she said.

Rijiju’s remarks followed Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s call for an in-depth, forward-looking debate on the air pollution crisis. Gandhi urged all parties to steer clear of blame games and work together to find effective solutions.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday (Dec 12) said that the centre is ready to debate the Delhi air pollution crisis in the parliament, as the national capital is finding it difficult to catch a breath under a dense layer of smog with the air quality hovering in the 'very poor' category. Rijiju's statement marked a rare occasion of agreement between the treasury benches. Responding to demands raised during Zero Hour, Rijiju stressed that the government had “from day one" maintained its willingness to discuss all important matters and incorporate suggestions from all members, including the principal opposition party. “The government, from day one, had made our position very clear that on all important matters, the government is ready to discuss and also to find a solution, taking along the suggestions from all the members, including the principal opposition party led by Rahul Gandhi ji," he said. Also Read: What is Pax Silica Initiative? The US-led grouping that excluded India Rijiju’s statement came after Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi called for an in-depth, forward-looking discussion on the air pollution crisis, calling on all parties to avoid a blame game and instead work jointly toward solutions. “Most of our major cities are living under a blanket of poisonous air. Millions of children are getting lung disease. Their future is being destroyed. People are getting cancer. Older people are struggling to breathe," Gandhi said. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed Rahul Gandhi's demand seeking an extensive debate in Parliament on the air pollution issue, saying that the issue needed to be addressed urgently and that the government should come up with a good action plan. Also Read: West Bengal SIR: Over 5 million voters identified for likely exclusion from voter list "I completely agree, and I think everyone agrees. The government also said we should all discuss it and develop an action plan. It is increasing every year. We discuss all other topics, so this should also be discussed, and something concrete should come out of it. If the government makes a good action plan and takes it forward, it will be great," she said.

Rijiju’s remarks followed Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s call for an in-depth, forward-looking debate on the air pollution crisis. Gandhi urged all parties to steer clear of blame games and work together to find effective solutions.

Centre ‘ready to discuss’ Delhi air pollution in Parliament; 'Something concrete should come out of it,' says Priyanka Gandhi

BJP MP Anurag Thakur on Friday criticised the Tamil Nadu government over the Karthigai Deepam row and defying the high court ruling on the issue and alleged that it has adopted an “anti-Sanatan” stance. Raising the issue in the Lok Sabha, Thakur said, “I want to raise a very important issue where one state in India has become a symbol of anti-Sanatan Dharma. Their ministers are making statements against Sanatan Dharma,” and added that the situation was such that the devotees had been compelled to seek judicial intervention to access the temple. The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court had recently pulled up the state government and accused officials of ignoring its order on lighting the Karthigai Deepam lamp at Madurai’s Thiruparankundram temple. The court maintained that its directions do not affect the rights of the adjacent dargah and upheld the petitioners’ right to perform the ritual at the designated Deepathoon site.&nbsp;He further alleged that devotees faced police action during the episode. “Hindus are lathi-charged... Why are Hindus stopped,” he asked the Tamil Nadu government over the treatment meted out to worshippers at the temple.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-brazen-attempt-to-browbeat-56-ex-judges-slam-opposition-move-to-impeach-justice-swaminathan-1765538768334">‘Brazen attempt to browbeat’: 56 ex-judges slam opposition move to impeach Justice Swaminathan</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Today in Zero Hour, I strongly raised the issue of anti-Sanatan Dharma statements in Tamil Nadu, insult of Lord Ram and the brutal lathi-charge on Hindus taking out a peaceful procession for Madurai Thiruparankundram Karthigai Deepam Insult to Sanatan Dharma will not be… <a href="https://t.co/IsOXvAAbw6">pic.twitter.com/IsOXvAAbw6</a>&mdash; Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur/status/1999396749908275397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>TN govt declined to comply with Madras High Court order</h2>&nbsp;The Karthigai Deepam row escalated sharply after the Tamil Nadu government again declined to comply with a Madras High Court order permitting the lighting of the ceremonial lamp at the Deepathoon stone pillar atop Thiruparankundram hills. It was the second defiance, as a division bench rejected the state’s appeal against contempt proceedings initiated for non-compliance.&nbsp;Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagendran and several party workers were detained in Madurai during protests against the state government. Over 1,000 police personnel were deployed to stop petitioners and supporters from reaching the hilltop despite the court’s direction.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-remove-a-single-name-from-voter-list-face-dharna-bengal-cm-mamata-banerjee-warns-on-sir-1765448347692">‘Remove a single name from voter list, face dharna’: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee warns on SIR</a><h2>High Court bench dismissed state govt’s appeal</h2>&nbsp;The bench of Justices G Jayachandran and K K Ramakrishnan dismissed the state government’s appeal, calling it an attempt to pre-empt contempt action. The bench also upheld single-judge Justice G R Swaminathan’s order allowing petitioners to light the lamp at Deepathoon under CISF protection. The single bench had initiated contempt proceedings after officials facilitated lighting the lamp at Uchi Pillaiyar Temple instead of at Deepathoon as directed on December 1.&nbsp;The High Court division bench observed that executive orders under Section 162 of the BNSS cannot override judicial directions and said the timing of the prohibitory orders is indicative of a “well-designed act” to avoid compliance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-one-h-1b-worker-equals-10-illegal-aliens-send-indian-techies-back-says-us-pollster-slams-trump-admin-1765474555216">‘One H-1B worker equals 10 illegal aliens, send Indian techies back’, says US pollster, slams Trump admin</a>&nbsp;After the appeal’s dismissal, Justice Swaminathan resumed contempt hearings and set aside the prohibitory orders issued by the Madurai district administration. He again permitted the lighting of the lamp at the hilltop, this time under the protection of Madurai city police, and warned that “harsh consequences will ensue” if officials continued to ignore the order.&nbsp;However, officials again blocked access, citing public order concerns while the Tamil Nadu government approached the Supreme Court seeking an urgent hearing on its appeal against the High Court’s orders.

The court maintained that its directions on lighting the Karthigai Deepam lamp at Madurai’s Thiruparankundram temple do not affect the rights of the adjacent dargah and upheld the petitioners’ right to perform the ritual at the designated Deepathoon site.

BJP MP Anurag Thakur on Friday criticised the Tamil Nadu government over the Karthigai Deepam row and defying the high court ruling on the issue and alleged that it has adopted an “anti-Sanatan” stance. Raising the issue in the Lok Sabha, Thakur said, “I want to raise a very important issue where one state in India has become a symbol of anti-Sanatan Dharma. Their ministers are making statements against Sanatan Dharma,” and added that the situation was such that the devotees had been compelled to seek judicial intervention to access the temple. The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court had recently pulled up the state government and accused officials of ignoring its order on lighting the Karthigai Deepam lamp at Madurai’s Thiruparankundram temple. The court maintained that its directions do not affect the rights of the adjacent dargah and upheld the petitioners’ right to perform the ritual at the designated Deepathoon site. He further alleged that devotees faced police action during the episode. “Hindus are lathi-charged... Why are Hindus stopped,” he asked the Tamil Nadu government over the treatment meted out to worshippers at the temple. Also Read: ‘Brazen attempt to browbeat’: 56 ex-judges slam opposition move to impeach Justice Swaminathan

The court maintained that its directions on lighting the Karthigai Deepam lamp at Madurai’s Thiruparankundram temple do not affect the rights of the adjacent dargah and upheld the petitioners’ right to perform the ritual at the designated Deepathoon site.

‘Anti-Sanatan’: BJP MP Anurag Thakur attacks Tamil Nadu govt over lathicharge on devotees amid Karthigai Deepam row

A new US-led strategic initiative, Pax Silica, which aims to create a secure supply chain in areas of critical minerals, emerging technologies, advanced manufacturing and semiconductors, does not include India. The development comes at a time when the teams from Washington are engaged in high-level trade talks in New Delhi with Indian counterparts, as they have already completed five rounds of technical negotiations.&nbsp; The alliance seeks to strengthen supply security for rare minerals and other resources vital for advanced AI technologies, reducing reliance on China, which currently controls nearly 70% of global rare earth mining.&nbsp;The Trump administration's initiative features the United States and eight partner countries, which include Singapore, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Israel as founding members.<h2>What is Pax Sillica initiative?</h2>As the name suggests, Pax comes from Latin pax, meaning peace and stability, and silica, the base compound refined into silicon for computer chips.&nbsp;Pax Silica is a new kind of international grouping and partnership – one that aims to unite the countries that host the world’s most advanced technology companies to unleash the economic potential of the new AI age, a US Department of State statement said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengal-sir-over-5-mn-voters-identified-for-likely-exclusion-from-voter-list-election-bjp-congress-tmc-rahul-gandhi-modi-1765537185482">West Bengal SIR: Over 5 million voters identified for likely exclusion from voter list</a>&nbsp;As per the statement, the effort stems from advancing US President Donald J Trump’s call for a new era of economic statecraft that produces peace and security for America and its allies through the power of private investment, free enterprise, and economics.<h2>First of its kind</h2>The US government highlighted that this is the first time countries are organising around compute, silicon, minerals, and energy as shared strategic assets. This is American AI diplomacy at its best: building coalitions, shaping markets, and advancing our national interests.&nbsp;According to the state department, the inaugural summit in Washington, DC, on December 12 will see Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg and representatives from Japan, Israel, Australia, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea signing the Pax Silica Declaration.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-order-on-marijuana-will-reclassify-it-for-first-time-in-50-years-say-reports-what-will-change-1765526113813">Trump order on marijuana will reclassify it for first time in 50 years, say reports. What will change?</a>&nbsp;Describing the move as new era of American Statecraft the statement said that following the singing of declaration the United States, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, the Netherlands, Israel, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, and the European Union will gather to discuss "jointly pursuing multilayered partnerships that strengthen supply chain security, address coercive dependencies and single points of failure, and advance the adoption of trusted technology ecosystems".

The US-led Pax Silica initiative, designed to secure critical mineral and tech supply chains and curb China’s dominance, excludes India, as Washington and New Delhi remain locked in trade negotiations following President Trump’s tariffs on Indian exports.

A new US-led strategic initiative, Pax Silica, which aims to create a secure supply chain in areas of critical minerals, emerging technologies, advanced manufacturing and semiconductors, does not include India. The development comes at a time when the teams from Washington are engaged in high-level trade talks in New Delhi with Indian counterparts, as they have already completed five rounds of technical negotiations. The alliance seeks to strengthen supply security for rare minerals and other resources vital for advanced AI technologies, reducing reliance on China, which currently controls nearly 70% of global rare earth mining. The Trump administration's initiative features the United States and eight partner countries, which include Singapore, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Israel as founding members. What is Pax Sillica initiative? As the name suggests, Pax comes from Latin pax, meaning peace and stability, and silica, the base compound refined into silicon for computer chips. Pax Silica is a new kind of international grouping and partnership – one that aims to unite the countries that host the world’s most advanced technology companies to unleash the economic potential of the new AI age, a US Department of State statement said. Also Read: West Bengal SIR: Over 5 million voters identified for likely exclusion from voter list As per the statement, the effort stems from advancing US President Donald J Trump’s call for a new era of economic statecraft that produces peace and security for America and its allies through the power of private investment, free enterprise, and economics. First of its kind The US government highlighted that this is the first time countries are organising around compute, silicon, minerals, and energy as shared strategic assets. This is American AI diplomacy at its best: building coalitions, shaping markets, and advancing our national interests. According to the state department, the inaugural summit in Washington, DC, on December 12 will see Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg and representatives from Japan, Israel, Australia, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea signing the Pax Silica Declaration. Also Read: Trump order on marijuana will reclassify it for first time in 50 years, say reports. What will change? Describing the move as new era of American Statecraft the statement said that following the singing of declaration the United States, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, the Netherlands, Israel, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, and the European Union will gather to discuss "jointly pursuing multilayered partnerships that strengthen supply chain security, address coercive dependencies and single points of failure, and advance the adoption of trusted technology ecosystems".

The US-led Pax Silica initiative, designed to secure critical mineral and tech supply chains and curb China’s dominance, excludes India, as Washington and New Delhi remain locked in trade negotiations following President Trump’s tariffs on Indian exports.

What is Pax Silica Initiative? The US-led grouping that excluded India

Fifty-six former judges, including those who served in the Supreme Court, have issued a statement criticising the move to impeach the Madras High Court’s Justice GR Swaminathan and expressed “serious exception” to the impeachment motion while calling it a “brazen attempt to browbeat judges”. The former judges came out in support of Justice GR Swaminathan, who ruled recently on the Thirupparankundram Subramaniaswamy temple case. The 56 judges, including retired Supreme Court judges and former Chief Justices of several High Courts, called the impeachment motion a “brazen attempt to browbeat judges who do not fall in line with ideological and political expectations of a particular section of society”. The judges warned, “If this is allowed to continue, it will cut at the very roots of our democracy and the independence of the judiciary.”&nbsp;“Even if the reasons mentioned by the signatory Member(s) of Parliament are taken at face value, they are wholly inadequate to justify resorting to such a rare, exceptional and serious constitutional measure as impeachment.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-remove-a-single-name-from-voter-list-face-dharna-bengal-cm-mamata-banerjee-warns-on-sir-1765448347692">‘Remove a single name from voter list, face dharna’: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee warns on SIR</a>&nbsp;The judges also referenced the Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.“It may be recalled that even during the dark period of the Emergency, the then-government adopted various mechanisms, including supersessions to penalise judges who refused to ‘toe the line’,” the judges said, pointing to three notable judgements, including the 1973 Kesavananda Bharati case that established the ‘basic structure doctrine’ limiting Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution of India.These are “sobering reminders of how political overreach can damage judicial independence”.&nbsp;<h2>‘Approach is anti-democratic and anti-constitutional’</h2>&nbsp;The 56 former judges also criticised attempts to “defame” senior members when passing decisions not favourable to “certain political interests”, referencing three ex-Chief Justices of India—Deepak Mishra, Ranjan Gogoi, SA Bobde, DY Chandrachud, and the current CJI, Surya Kant.&nbsp;“The very purpose of the impeachment mechanism is to uphold the integrity of the judiciary, not to convert it into a tool of arm-twisting, signalling and retaliation. To wield the threat of removal as a means of compelling judges to conform to political expectations is to turn a constitutional safeguard into an instrument of intimidation. Such an approach is anti-democratic (and) anti-constitutional...”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-one-h-1b-worker-equals-10-illegal-aliens-send-indian-techies-back-says-us-pollster-slams-trump-admin-1765474555216">‘One H-1B worker equals 10 illegal aliens, send Indian techies back’, says US pollster, slams Trump admin</a>&nbsp;<h2>100 INDIA bloc MPs filed impeachment motion</h2>&nbsp;Earlier this week over 100 INDIA bloc MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, presented the motion to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.The move was strongly criticised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who accused the opposition of ‘appeasement’ politics. “This has never happened (since) independence that a judge is facing impeachment for a judgment. They brought this to appease their vote bank,” Shah said.&nbsp;<h2>The Madurai temple lamp row, and the high court verdict</h2>&nbsp;The Thirupparankundram Subramaniaswamy temple case revolves around the lighting of a festival lamp on one of two ancient pillars, called ‘deepathon’, on a hill in Tamil Nadu’s Madurai. The hill is home to both a sixth-century temple and a 14th-century dargah.&nbsp;On December 1, Justice Swaminathan overruled protests by the state government and temple officials, and ordered the lamp to be lit on the pillar built halfway up the hill instead of the one at the foot of it, which has been the tradition for over a 100 years.Justice Swaminathan reasoned that the upper pillar is also temple property and must, therefore, be included in the ritual. The court emphasised the necessity of assertion of possession.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-denies-anticipatory-bail-to-luthra-brothers-ahead-of-deportation-from-thailand-in-goa-club-fire-case-1765458823728">Court denies anticipatory bail to Luthra brothers ahead of deportation from Thailand in Goa club fire case</a>&nbsp;However, the DMK said that such an order could inflame communal tensions, particularly with an Assembly election less than six months away.The temple did not comply with the court’s order and on December 3, the day of the festival, the lamp was lit at the traditional spot on the lower pillar.An irked judge, citing non-compliance, then ordered the lamp be lit on the upper pillar also, leading to unruly scenes as hundreds tried to march up the hill to light the lamp—backed by armed central security forces—prompting district officials to issue orders banning large gatherings.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tariff-war-widens-after-us-mexico-announces-up-to-50-tariffs-on-imports-from-india-other-asian-countries-1765454197194">Tariff war widens: After US, Mexico announces up to 50% tariffs on imports from India, other Asian countries</a><h2>Tamil Nadu govt moves Supreme Court&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;On December 4, appeals by the Tamil Nadu government were heard by a two-judge bench of the Madras High Court. The court decided against the Tamil Nadu government. Subsequently, on December 5, the state moved the Supreme Court, which has not yet fixed a date for the hearing.The developments are being seen as a political setback for the ruling DMK, particularly ahead of the Assembly election next year, as it is already facing accusations of having an ‘anti-Hindu’ stance to appease Muslim voters.Chief Minister MK Stalin targeted the BJP without naming it and said the lighting of the lamp had been conducted in line with a century-long tradition. “... some parties have a riot mindset...,” he remarked.

The very purpose of the impeachment mechanism is to uphold the integrity of the judiciary, not to convert it into a tool of arm-twisting, signalling and retaliation, the 56 former judges said in a statement, while calling the move a “brazen attempt to browbeat judges”.

Fifty-six former judges, including those who served in the Supreme Court, have issued a statement criticising the move to impeach the Madras High Court’s Justice GR Swaminathan and expressed “serious exception” to the impeachment motion while calling it a “brazen attempt to browbeat judges”. The former judges came out in support of Justice GR Swaminathan, who ruled recently on the Thirupparankundram Subramaniaswamy temple case. The 56 judges, including retired Supreme Court judges and former Chief Justices of several High Courts, called the impeachment motion a “brazen attempt to browbeat judges who do not fall in line with ideological and political expectations of a particular section of society”. The judges warned, “If this is allowed to continue, it will cut at the very roots of our democracy and the independence of the judiciary.” “Even if the reasons mentioned by the signatory Member(s) of Parliament are taken at face value, they are wholly inadequate to justify resorting to such a rare, exceptional and serious constitutional measure as impeachment.” Also Read: ‘Remove a single name from voter list, face dharna’: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee warns on SIR The judges also referenced the Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975. “It may be recalled that even during the dark period of the Emergency, the then-government adopted various mechanisms, including supersessions to penalise judges who refused to ‘toe the line’,” the judges said, pointing to three notable judgements, including the 1973 Kesavananda Bharati case that established the ‘basic structure doctrine’ limiting Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution of India. These are “sobering reminders of how political overreach can damage judicial independence”. ‘Approach is anti-democratic and anti-constitutional’ The 56 former judges also criticised attempts to “defame” senior members when passing decisions not favourable to “certain political interests”, referencing three ex-Chief Justices of India—Deepak Mishra, Ranjan Gogoi, SA Bobde, DY Chandrachud, and the current CJI, Surya Kant. “The very purpose of the impeachment mechanism is to uphold the integrity of the judiciary, not to convert it into a tool of arm-twisting, signalling and retaliation. To wield the threat of removal as a means of compelling judges to conform to political expectations is to turn a constitutional safeguard into an instrument of intimidation. Such an approach is anti-democratic (and) anti-constitutional...” Also Read: ‘One H-1B worker equals 10 illegal aliens, send Indian techies back’, says US pollster, slams Trump admin 100 INDIA bloc MPs filed impeachment motion Earlier this week over 100 INDIA bloc MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, presented the motion to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The move was strongly criticised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who accused the opposition of ‘appeasement’ politics. “This has never happened (since) independence that a judge is facing impeachment for a judgment. They brought this to appease their vote bank,” Shah said. The Madurai temple lamp row, and the high court verdict The Thirupparankundram Subramaniaswamy temple case revolves around the lighting of a festival lamp on one of two ancient pillars, called ‘deepathon’, on a hill in Tamil Nadu’s Madurai. The hill is home to both a sixth-century temple and a 14th-century dargah. On December 1, Justice Swaminathan overruled protests by the state government and temple officials, and ordered the lamp to be lit on the pillar built halfway up the hill instead of the one at the foot of it, which has been the tradition for over a 100 years. Justice Swaminathan reasoned that the upper pillar is also temple property and must, therefore, be included in the ritual. The court emphasised the necessity of assertion of possession. Also Read: Court denies anticipatory bail to Luthra brothers ahead of deportation from Thailand in Goa club fire case However, the DMK said that such an order could inflame communal tensions, particularly with an Assembly election less than six months away. The temple did not comply with the court’s order and on December 3, the day of the festival, the lamp was lit at the traditional spot on the lower pillar. An irked judge, citing non-compliance, then ordered the lamp be lit on the upper pillar also, leading to unruly scenes as hundreds tried to march up the hill to light the lamp—backed by armed central security forces—prompting district officials to issue orders banning large gatherings. Also Read: Tariff war widens: After US, Mexico announces up to 50% tariffs on imports from India, other Asian countries Tamil Nadu govt moves Supreme Court On December 4, appeals by the Tamil Nadu government were heard by a two-judge bench of the Madras High Court. The court decided against the Tamil Nadu government. Subsequently, on December 5, the state moved the Supreme Court, which has not yet fixed a date for the hearing. The developments are being seen as a political setback for the ruling DMK, particularly ahead of the Assembly election next year, as it is already facing accusations of having an ‘anti-Hindu’ stance to appease Muslim voters. Chief Minister MK Stalin targeted the BJP without naming it and said the lighting of the lamp had been conducted in line with a century-long tradition. “... some parties have a riot mindset...,” he remarked.

The very purpose of the impeachment mechanism is to uphold the integrity of the judiciary, not to convert it into a tool of arm-twisting, signalling and retaliation, the 56 former judges said in a statement, while calling the move a “brazen attempt to browbeat judges”.&nbsp;

‘Brazen attempt to browbeat’: 56 ex-judges slam opposition move to impeach Justice Swaminathan

The Election Commission of India flagged 58,08,202 (around 6 million) names as potentially eligible for exclusion from the electoral rolls following completion of its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in West Bengal. The poll body on Friday (Dec 12) extended the duration of the ongoing electoral clean-up drive for five states and a union territory, including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while in Rajasthan, West Bengal and Goa, it marked the completion of enumeration.&nbsp;According to the Election Commission, officials said that the figures represent the count of deceased, missing, relocated, bogus and other disqualified voters identified during the enumeration process in the state. The commission expected he final figure to be similar to the draft rolls with minor adjustments after considering complaints and anomalies flagged by the voters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-ukraine-of-targeting-chemical-facilities-risking-exposure-to-civilians-1765528782940">Russia accuses Ukraine of targeting chemical facilities, risking exposure to civilians</a>&nbsp;West Bengal's electoral roll, last certified on 27 October 2025, records 7,66,37,529 registered voters. In this context, the provisional figure of 50 lakh represents a sizeable share of the electorate. Election officials and the Chief Electoral Officer’s office have repeatedly emphasised that this number is only a preliminary outcome of the digitisation process. They clarified that it must be viewed within the administrative sequence that follows: publication of the draft roll, issuance of notices, hearings, resolution of claims and objections, and finally, the Election Commission of India’s scrutiny and approval of the final list.&nbsp;The poll body classified 1,35,575 voters as bogus, while another 57,509 voters are placed under the "other" category, all of whom are slated for removal from the draft list. It will publish the draft electoral roll on December 6, following which voters can raise objections, report errors or submit missing information.&nbsp;The Election Commission launched the second phase of the SIR drive across 12 states and Union Territories with preparatory printing and training from 28–30 October 2025, followed by house-to-house enumeration from 4 November to 11 December 2025. Draft electoral rolls were published on 16 December 2025, with the claims and objections window open until 15 January 2026, and the final voter list set for publication by mid-February 2026.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/venture-capital-leaders-pranav-sharma-blue-gold-s-sameer-salgar-join-kyvex-1765534750547">Venture Capital Leaders Pranav Sharma &amp; Blue Gold’s Sameer Salgar Join Kyvex to lead Global Business Development and accelerate global expansion of India’s Sovereign AI Platform</a>&nbsp;However, the exercise became a point of contention between the ruling NDA alliance led by the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Opposition Bloc, with Congress describing it as a move aimed at vote theft. In contrast, the BJP described it as a routine exercise to clean up electoral rolls in the country.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Amid the row over the Special Intensive Revision, the Election Commission identified 58,08,202 names potentially eligible for deletion on the grounds of deceased, missing, relocated and bogus voters.

The Election Commission of India flagged 58,08,202 (around 6 million) names as potentially eligible for exclusion from the electoral rolls following completion of its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in West Bengal. The poll body on Friday (Dec 12) extended the duration of the ongoing electoral clean-up drive for five states and a union territory, including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while in Rajasthan, West Bengal and Goa, it marked the completion of enumeration. According to the Election Commission, officials said that the figures represent the count of deceased, missing, relocated, bogus and other disqualified voters identified during the enumeration process in the state. The commission expected he final figure to be similar to the draft rolls with minor adjustments after considering complaints and anomalies flagged by the voters. Also Read: Russia accuses Ukraine of targeting chemical facilities, risking exposure to civilians West Bengal's electoral roll, last certified on 27 October 2025, records 7,66,37,529 registered voters. In this context, the provisional figure of 50 lakh represents a sizeable share of the electorate. Election officials and the Chief Electoral Officer’s office have repeatedly emphasised that this number is only a preliminary outcome of the digitisation process. They clarified that it must be viewed within the administrative sequence that follows: publication of the draft roll, issuance of notices, hearings, resolution of claims and objections, and finally, the Election Commission of India’s scrutiny and approval of the final list. The poll body classified 1,35,575 voters as bogus, while another 57,509 voters are placed under the "other" category, all of whom are slated for removal from the draft list. It will publish the draft electoral roll on December 6, following which voters can raise objections, report errors or submit missing information. The Election Commission launched the second phase of the SIR drive across 12 states and Union Territories with preparatory printing and training from 28–30 October 2025, followed by house-to-house enumeration from 4 November to 11 December 2025. Draft electoral rolls were published on 16 December 2025, with the claims and objections window open until 15 January 2026, and the final voter list set for publication by mid-February 2026. Also Read: Venture Capital Leaders Pranav Sharma & Blue Gold’s Sameer Salgar Join Kyvex to lead Global Business Development and accelerate global expansion of India’s Sovereign AI Platform However, the exercise became a point of contention between the ruling NDA alliance led by the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Opposition Bloc, with Congress describing it as a move aimed at vote theft. In contrast, the BJP described it as a routine exercise to clean up electoral rolls in the country.

Amid the row over the Special Intensive Revision, the Election Commission identified 58,08,202 names potentially eligible for deletion on the grounds of deceased, missing, relocated and bogus voters.

West Bengal SIR: Over 5 million voters identified for likely exclusion from voter list

"Kyvex, a pioneering sovereign AI company founded by Indian billionaire Pearl Kapur, is proud to announce the appointment of venture capital leaders Pranav Sharma and Sameer Salgar to its team. As strategic business development representatives, Sharma and Salgar will drive Kyvex's global expansion and growth, further establishing the company as a leader in the sovereign AI space. With a strong foundation in India and a vision to serve the world, Kyvex is redefining the AI landscape with its innovative approach to data sovereignty, transparency, and customization."&nbsp;Kyvex is the most rapidly expanding sovereign Indian artificial intelligence company, this time with the addition of two key board members and a detailed product expansion plan which makes Kyvex the most reliable substitute of US-centric artificial intelligence platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity in the world.&nbsp;Kyvex has Pranav Sharma, the Founder of Woodstock VC Fund, and Sameer Salgar, the Advisor at Nasdaq-listed Blue Gold Ltd, who have joined Kyvex as strategic business development representatives - a strong endorsement of Kyvex by leaders in venture capital, enterprise strategy, and world financial markets.&nbsp;Founder Pearl Kapur has announced the roadmap of Kyvex with the next releases Kyvex in the near future Mobile apps (iOS,Android), desktop apps (macOS), ai-powered Web browser to be released soon Kyvex is now free to use, and can be accessed in any major web browser (desktop or mobile ), no installation required at all <a href="https://kyvex.ai">https://kyvex.ai</a>&nbsp;Kyvex: Rediscovering AI to a Sovereign, Transparent Future&nbsp;Kyvex is creating AI infrastructure to governments, enterprises, and the public optimized around data sovereignty, ethical governance, and complete customization, which the global players have failed to do historically.&nbsp;We are constructing trusted, nation-sovereign, mission-driven AI that cannot be used by the countries and organizations that do not have access to the black-box systems.&nbsp;Platform of Kyvex (Dual powered). A single Integrated Sovereign AI Ecosystem.&nbsp;1. Kyvex Gov: National and State Governments AI Portals.&nbsp;Kyvex Gov will provide a solution to fragmented citizen-services and misinformation by making available:&nbsp;Жe-authenticated, safe access.&nbsp;&gt; Proprietary LLMs were only trained on government data.·&nbsp;&gt; Live API connections with official sources.&nbsp;Zero The sharing of data with commercial AI providers.&nbsp;&gt; Multilingual assistance such as Hindi and leading Indian regional languages.&nbsp;ChatGPT/Perplexity is created ad hoc, whereas Kyvex Gov is designed to be accurate, transparent, and trusted by the government.&nbsp;2. Kyvex Research and Browser Platform: Free AI-powered answer engine and browsing platform to enterprises, developers, Researchers, Students and Public.

The consumer and developer facing platform at Kyvex consists of:&gt;·Elaborated Q&amp;A, content generation, image generation, encoding, summarization, deep research.&nbsp;Obvious, documented answers.&nbsp;OBS Sovereign Indian LLMs lessening the dependence on foreign AI.&nbsp;The Kyvex Case Analysis: Why it is Important in the Present AI World.&nbsp;Centralized and opaque systems are becoming more and more dominant in the global AI industry. Kyvex responds to this by:"]["Data sovereignty - No insidious training consumption.&nbsp;&gt;·Zero vendor lock-in — Complete domination of deployment surroundings.&nbsp;&gt;·Geopolitical independence - Kyvex Proprietary LLM in house, AI infrastructural out of US system control.&nbsp;&gt;·Domain-trained models that are specialized -Eliminating the risk of misinformation in important areas.&nbsp;&gt;·Open architecture - transparent data provenance and citation trails.&nbsp;Kyvex comes in as a structurally safer, more predictable, and more responsible substitute to mainstream AI platforms.Additions to Strategic Boards: Speeding up Market Penetration around the World.&nbsp;This cross-platform launching makes Kyvex an omnipresent, seamless AI-based alternative, as opposed to siloed systems provided by the competitors.&nbsp;Long-Term Vision:&nbsp;Kyvex will be a world-operating Indo-based AI company that will operate at the cutting edge of AI-human -machine interaction.&nbsp;About Kyvex&nbsp;India Kyvex is the fastest-growing sovereign artificial intelligence company, based in India, which is dedicated to sovereign, customizable, and transparent AI systems to governments, enterprises, and the people, founded by Pearl Kapur. Proprietary Indian LLM and government-grade data protection is redefining the AI-world.Kyvex is open source and free and found at <a href="https://kyvex.ai">https://kyvex.ai</a>&nbsp;

Kyvex is the most rapidly expanding sovereign Indian artificial intelligence company, this time with the addition of two key board members and a detailed product expansion plan which makes Kyvex the most reliable substitute of US-centric artificial intelligence platforms

"Kyvex, a pioneering sovereign AI company founded by Indian billionaire Pearl Kapur, is proud to announce the appointment of venture capital leaders Pranav Sharma and Sameer Salgar to its team. As strategic business development representatives, Sharma and Salgar will drive Kyvex's global expansion and growth, further establishing the company as a leader in the sovereign AI space. With a strong foundation in India and a vision to serve the world, Kyvex is redefining the AI landscape with its innovative approach to data sovereignty, transparency, and customization." Kyvex is the most rapidly expanding sovereign Indian artificial intelligence company, this time with the addition of two key board members and a detailed product expansion plan which makes Kyvex the most reliable substitute of US-centric artificial intelligence platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity in the world. Kyvex has Pranav Sharma, the Founder of Woodstock VC Fund, and Sameer Salgar, the Advisor at Nasdaq-listed Blue Gold Ltd, who have joined Kyvex as strategic business development representatives - a strong endorsement of Kyvex by leaders in venture capital, enterprise strategy, and world financial markets. Founder Pearl Kapur has announced the roadmap of Kyvex with the next releases Kyvex in the near future Mobile apps (iOS,Android), desktop apps (macOS), ai-powered Web browser to be released soon Kyvex is now free to use, and can be accessed in any major web browser (desktop or mobile ), no installation required at all https://kyvex.ai Kyvex: Rediscovering AI to a Sovereign, Transparent Future Kyvex is creating AI infrastructure to governments, enterprises, and the public optimized around data sovereignty, ethical governance, and complete customization, which the global players have failed to do historically. We are constructing trusted, nation-sovereign, mission-driven AI that cannot be used by the countries and organizations that do not have access to the black-box systems. Platform of Kyvex (Dual powered). A single Integrated Sovereign AI Ecosystem. 1. Kyvex Gov: National and State Governments AI Portals. Kyvex Gov will provide a solution to fragmented citizen-services and misinformation by making available: Жe-authenticated, safe access. > Proprietary LLMs were only trained on government data.· > Live API connections with official sources. Zero The sharing of data with commercial AI providers. > Multilingual assistance such as Hindi and leading Indian regional languages. ChatGPT/Perplexity is created ad hoc, whereas Kyvex Gov is designed to be accurate, transparent, and trusted by the government. 2. Kyvex Research and Browser Platform: Free AI-powered answer engine and browsing platform to enterprises, developers, Researchers, Students and Public.

Kyvex is the most rapidly expanding sovereign Indian artificial intelligence company, this time with the addition of two key board members and a detailed product expansion plan which makes Kyvex the most reliable substitute of US-centric artificial intelligence platforms

Venture Capital Leaders Pranav Sharma & Blue Gold’s Sameer Salgar Join Kyvex to lead Global Business Development and accelerate global expansion of India’s Sovereign AI Platform

Swedish and Indian business leaders have pledged closer collaboration on decarbonising heavy industry, with Stockholm positioning itself as a key technology partner for India’s long-term shift to a low-carbon economy. The third India-Sweden Sustainability Day, organised by Business Sweden and hosted at the Swedish Consulate in Mumbai, focused on “Enabling Conditions for Industrial Net-Zero”. The event emphasised Sweden's continuing appeal for those looking for proven solutions in green steel, smart manufacturing and circular-economy models.Sweden retained second place in both the 2025 Global Innovation Index and the UN Sustainable Development Report, reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s most advanced sustainable economies. “India–Sweden Sustainability Day stands as a testament to the shared vision of both nations to turn ambition into action and to deliver long-term value,” said Sofia Högman, Trade and Invest Commissioner of Sweden to India. “Through forward-looking initiatives such as the India–Sweden Green Transition Partnership, we are building an ecosystem where innovation takes centre stage, and sustainability is embedded into every industrial process", she said.India has committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2070 and is actively seeking foreign expertise to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors such as steel, cement and chemicals while maintaining industrial competitiveness. Sven Östberg, Consul General of Sweden in Mumbai, told delegates: “The Sweden-India collaboration is rooted in trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to shaping a greener, more equitable future. Through these efforts, the partnership is setting new global benchmarks in advancing shared sustainability and development goals.”Agnes Julin, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Sweden in New Delhi, added: “Sweden has stood with India, stands with India today, and will continue to stand with every stakeholder committed to meaningful, sustainable change. As we look ahead, let us continue to invest, to innovate… and to build the technological, commercial, and cultural bridges that will shape the next chapter of this journey.” Business Sweden, which has supported Swedish companies in India for over 25 years, this year opened a new office in Mumbai to be closer to the financial capital and the industrial cluster around Pune, where dozens of Swedish firms already operate.The Sweden-India Business Guide 2025 has been launched at the event, with fresh pledges to expand cooperation in circular economy practices, resource efficiency and clean-energy deployment. For Swedish companies, India’s combination of rapid industrial growth and ambitious climate targets represents one of the world’s largest green-market opportunities. For New Delhi, Sweden offers battle-tested technologies and financing models that can help meet sustainability goals without sacrificing economic expansion.

Sweden retained second place in both the 2025 Global Innovation Index and the UN Sustainable Development Report, reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s most advanced sustainable economies.

Swedish and Indian business leaders have pledged closer collaboration on decarbonising heavy industry, with Stockholm positioning itself as a key technology partner for India’s long-term shift to a low-carbon economy. The third India-Sweden Sustainability Day, organised by Business Sweden and hosted at the Swedish Consulate in Mumbai, focused on “Enabling Conditions for Industrial Net-Zero”. The event emphasised Sweden's continuing appeal for those looking for proven solutions in green steel, smart manufacturing and circular-economy models. Sweden retained second place in both the 2025 Global Innovation Index and the UN Sustainable Development Report, reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s most advanced sustainable economies. “India–Sweden Sustainability Day stands as a testament to the shared vision of both nations to turn ambition into action and to deliver long-term value,” said Sofia Högman, Trade and Invest Commissioner of Sweden to India. “Through forward-looking initiatives such as the India–Sweden Green Transition Partnership, we are building an ecosystem where innovation takes centre stage, and sustainability is embedded into every industrial process", she said. India has committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2070 and is actively seeking foreign expertise to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors such as steel, cement and chemicals while maintaining industrial competitiveness. Sven Östberg, Consul General of Sweden in Mumbai, told delegates: “The Sweden-India collaboration is rooted in trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to shaping a greener, more equitable future. Through these efforts, the partnership is setting new global benchmarks in advancing shared sustainability and development goals.” Agnes Julin, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Sweden in New Delhi, added: “Sweden has stood with India, stands with India today, and will continue to stand with every stakeholder committed to meaningful, sustainable change. As we look ahead, let us continue to invest, to innovate… and to build the technological, commercial, and cultural bridges that will shape the next chapter of this journey.” Business Sweden, which has supported Swedish companies in India for over 25 years, this year opened a new office in Mumbai to be closer to the financial capital and the industrial cluster around Pune, where dozens of Swedish firms already operate. The Sweden-India Business Guide 2025 has been launched at the event, with fresh pledges to expand cooperation in circular economy practices, resource efficiency and clean-energy deployment. For Swedish companies, India’s combination of rapid industrial growth and ambitious climate targets represents one of the world’s largest green-market opportunities. For New Delhi, Sweden offers battle-tested technologies and financing models that can help meet sustainability goals without sacrificing economic expansion.

Sweden retained second place in both the 2025 Global Innovation Index and the UN Sustainable Development Report, reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s most advanced sustainable economies.

India and Sweden look to deepen green industrial ties as Delhi eyes net-zero by 2070

In India's Andhra Pradesh, a tragic bus accident has claimed at least 9 lives. The accident happened in Andhra Pradesh’s Alluri Sitarama Raju district when a private bus, carrying a full load of passengers from Chittoor district, veered off a ghat road and plunged into a valley. The vehicle was travelling from Chittoor toward Maredumilli and had reportedly been returning from Bhadrachalam after a temple visit, with Annavaram as its next destination. Witnesses said they heard passengers screaming for help as the bus tumbled down the slope.Police and local residents rushed to the scene moments after the crash and began rescue efforts. Further details on the number of survivors and the cause of the accident awaited. The injured have been shifted to Bhadrachalam Hospital for treatment, said ASR District Collector Dinesh Kumar.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-aviation-minister-says-will-fire-indigo-chief-if-needed-can-government-sack-the-ceo-of-private-business-what-the-law-actually-allows-1765350448545">Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows</a><h2>The government will stand by the families of victims</h2>In a statement on X, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed his grief over the bus accident and vowed that his government "will stand by the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.”He said, “The accident involving a private bus carrying passengers near Chittoor district in Alluri Sitarama Raju has deeply shaken us. It is heartbreaking that several lives were lost in this accident."Naidu added that he had spoken with the officials regarding the accident and gathered "details about the assistance being provided to the affected individuals. I have instructed the officials to take all necessary measures to ensure that the injured receive better medical aid. The government will stand by the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-nightclub-fire-luthra-brothers-arrested-in-thailand-extradition-to-india-underway-reports-1765425190444">Goa nightclub fire: Luthra brothers arrested in Thailand, extradition to India underway</a>President Droupadi Murmu has shared her condolences. "Pained to know about the loss of lives in a tragic bus accident in Alluri Sitharama Raju District of Andhra Pradesh. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for quick recovery of those injured," she said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Pained to know about the loss of lives in a tragic bus accident in Alluri Sitharama Raju District of Andhra Pradesh. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for quick recovery of those injured.&mdash; President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1999323373978157067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Private bus</h2>According to reports, the bus belongs to a private company called Sree Vigneshwara Travels. The bus owner is A.K. Ramamurthy, and the travel agent is Vajramurthy. The pilgrims were travelling from Chittoor to Kotappakonda, Amaravati, Mangalagiri, Vijayawada, Dwaraka Tirumala, Palakollu, Bhimavaram, Penugonda, Antarvedi, Draksharamam, Samarlakota, Simhachalam, Arasavilli, Srikurmam and then onward to Bhadrachalam. Twelve of the passengers were from Bengaluru, and the remaining were from Chittoor.&nbsp;

A packed private bus returning from a temple trip plunged into a valley in Andhra Pradesh, killing at least 9 people. Scroll for full story.

In India's Andhra Pradesh, a tragic bus accident has claimed at least 9 lives. The accident happened in Andhra Pradesh’s Alluri Sitarama Raju district when a private bus, carrying a full load of passengers from Chittoor district, veered off a ghat road and plunged into a valley. The vehicle was travelling from Chittoor toward Maredumilli and had reportedly been returning from Bhadrachalam after a temple visit, with Annavaram as its next destination. Witnesses said they heard passengers screaming for help as the bus tumbled down the slope. Police and local residents rushed to the scene moments after the crash and began rescue efforts. Further details on the number of survivors and the cause of the accident awaited. The injured have been shifted to Bhadrachalam Hospital for treatment, said ASR District Collector Dinesh Kumar. Also read | Indian aviation minister says will fire IndiGo chief if needed. Can government sack the CEO of private business? What the law actually allows The government will stand by the families of victims In a statement on X, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed his grief over the bus accident and vowed that his government "will stand by the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.” He said, “The accident involving a private bus carrying passengers near Chittoor district in Alluri Sitarama Raju has deeply shaken us. It is heartbreaking that several lives were lost in this accident." Naidu added that he had spoken with the officials regarding the accident and gathered "details about the assistance being provided to the affected individuals. I have instructed the officials to take all necessary measures to ensure that the injured receive better medical aid. The government will stand by the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.” Also read | Goa nightclub fire: Luthra brothers arrested in Thailand, extradition to India underway President Droupadi Murmu has shared her condolences. "Pained to know about the loss of lives in a tragic bus accident in Alluri Sitharama Raju District of Andhra Pradesh. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for quick recovery of those injured," she said.

A packed private bus returning from a temple trip plunged into a valley in Andhra Pradesh, killing at least 9 people. Scroll for full story.

Andhra Pradesh horror: At least 9 dead as packed bus plunges into valley in Alluri Sitarama Raju district; President Murmu shares condolences

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday (Dec 12) sacked four flight operations inspectors (FOIs) amid an investigation into massive flight cancellations by IndiGo airline, which left thousands of passengers stranded at airports. The officials relieved from duty were responsible for operational oversight on the airline. Meanwhile, the aviation watchdog has summoned CEO Pieter Elbers again on Friday afternoon. This comes days after the nationwide flight disruption of IndiGo flights that led to over 5,000 cancellations in recent days.&nbsp;In the notice, DGCA states, “Consequent upon approval of the Competent Authority, the following FOls under various categories, on contract basis, in DGCA are hereby relieved from DGCA with immediate effect to join their respective parent organizations.”&nbsp;According to the DGCA order, the officials relieved include Rish Raj Chatterjee, consultant (deputy chief FOI); Seema Jhamnani, senior FOI; Anil Kumar Pokhariyal, consultant (FOI); and Priyam Kaushik, consultant FOI.&nbsp;<h2>DGCA oversight team stationed in Gurugram office</h2>

As the airlines work to restore flight operations, more than 50 flights were cancelled on Friday. A day earlier, over 200 flights were disrupted across India. &nbsp;Earlier, DGCA announced stationing a dedicated Oversight Team at the airline’s corporate office in Gurugram to monitor operations. In an internal order issued on Thursday (Dec 12), the aviation regulator said that the move was taken “in view of passenger inconvenience caused due to large-scale disruptions in the operations of IndiGo Airlines at various airports across the country.”&nbsp;<h2>IndiGo announces Rs 10,000 vouchers to affected passengers</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, IndiGo has announced that it will offer travel vouchers worth Rs 10,000 to each passenger whose flights were cancelled or delayed for long during December 3-5. The compensation would be in addition to the amount that needs to be provided to passengers for flight cancellations under DGCA norms. The travel voucher can be used for any future IndiGo journey and will be valid for 12 months, the airline said on Thursday.

This comes days after the nationwide flight disruption of IndiGo flights that led to over 1,600 cancellations in a single day last week.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Friday (Dec 12) sacked four flight operations inspectors (FOIs) amid an investigation into massive flight cancellations by IndiGo airline, which left thousands of passengers stranded at airports. The officials relieved from duty were responsible for operational oversight on the airline. Meanwhile, the aviation watchdog has summoned CEO Pieter Elbers again on Friday afternoon. This comes days after the nationwide flight disruption of IndiGo flights that led to over 5,000 cancellations in recent days. In the notice, DGCA states, “Consequent upon approval of the Competent Authority, the following FOls under various categories, on contract basis, in DGCA are hereby relieved from DGCA with immediate effect to join their respective parent organizations.” According to the DGCA order, the officials relieved include Rish Raj Chatterjee, consultant (deputy chief FOI); Seema Jhamnani, senior FOI; Anil Kumar Pokhariyal, consultant (FOI); and Priyam Kaushik, consultant FOI. DGCA oversight team stationed in Gurugram office

This comes days after the nationwide flight disruption of IndiGo flights that led to over 1,600 cancellations in a single day last week.

IndiGo crisis: DGCA sacks 4 flight inspectors; CEO Pieter Elbers summoned again

Two days after the Uttar Pradesh government formed a three-member high-level Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by an IG-rank officer to probe the illegal sale, storage, and trafficking of codeine-based cough syrup, the Enforcement Directorate (ED)conducted raids at multiple locations across the states of Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gujarat on Friday.&nbsp;Twenty five locations that include Lucknow, Varanasi, Jaunpur, Saharanpur, Ranchi and Ahmedabad are being searched in the illegal cough syrup case related to the main accused, Shubham Jaiswal, associates Alok singh, Amit singh and other cough syrup manufacturers who fraudulently provided supplies of cough syrup for illegal trading, and CA Vishnu Aggarwal. The searches at the premises began at 7: 30 am by the ED.<h2>Main accused absconding</h2>&nbsp;Shubham Jaiswal , the main accused in the case is absconding and is believed to be hiding in Dubai. His father Bhola Prasad has been arrested, including 32 other people by Uttar Pradesh Police.&nbsp;Enforcement Case Information Report, an internal document for money laundering investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) was registered on the basis of more than 30 FIR recorded in previous two months in various districts of Uttar Pradesh, including Lucknow Varanasi, Sonbhadra Saharanpur, Ghaziabad.<h2>Earlier case of contaminated syrup</h2>&nbsp;Earlier in October, 24 children had lost their lives after consuming toxic cough syrups in Madhya Pradesh's Chhindwara district.&nbsp;Three contaminated cough syrups manufactured in India were linked to the deaths. The cough syrups in question were Coldrif (Sresan Pharmaceutical), Respifresh TR (Rednex Pharmaceuticals), and ReLife (Shape Pharma).&nbsp;The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global health advisory after the incident came to light.&nbsp;The WHO in its health advisory said that the three cough syrups contained toxic levels of diethylene glycol — nearly 500 times the permissible limit — and warned that the products posed significant, potentially life-threatening risks&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate (ED)conducted raids at multiple locations across the states of Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gujarat on Friday in the cough syrup case.

Two days after the Uttar Pradesh government formed a three-member high-level Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by an IG-rank officer to probe the illegal sale, storage, and trafficking of codeine-based cough syrup, the Enforcement Directorate (ED)conducted raids at multiple locations across the states of Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gujarat on Friday. Twenty five locations that include Lucknow, Varanasi, Jaunpur, Saharanpur, Ranchi and Ahmedabad are being searched in the illegal cough syrup case related to the main accused, Shubham Jaiswal, associates Alok singh, Amit singh and other cough syrup manufacturers who fraudulently provided supplies of cough syrup for illegal trading, and CA Vishnu Aggarwal. The searches at the premises began at 7: 30 am by the ED. Main accused absconding Shubham Jaiswal , the main accused in the case is absconding and is believed to be hiding in Dubai. His father Bhola Prasad has been arrested, including 32 other people by Uttar Pradesh Police. Enforcement Case Information Report, an internal document for money laundering investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) was registered on the basis of more than 30 FIR recorded in previous two months in various districts of Uttar Pradesh, including Lucknow Varanasi, Sonbhadra Saharanpur, Ghaziabad. Earlier case of contaminated syrup Earlier in October, 24 children had lost their lives after consuming toxic cough syrups in Madhya Pradesh's Chhindwara district. Three contaminated cough syrups manufactured in India were linked to the deaths. The cough syrups in question were Coldrif (Sresan Pharmaceutical), Respifresh TR (Rednex Pharmaceuticals), and ReLife (Shape Pharma). The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global health advisory after the incident came to light. The WHO in its health advisory said that the three cough syrups contained toxic levels of diethylene glycol — nearly 500 times the permissible limit — and warned that the products posed significant, potentially life-threatening risks

&nbsp;The Enforcement Directorate (ED)conducted raids at multiple locations across the states of Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gujarat on Friday in the cough syrup case.

Uttar Pradesh cough syrup case: ED conducts raids at 25 locations across three states, main accused on run

Senior Congress Leader Shivraj Singh Patil, who served in the upper echelon of Indian politics, passed away in Maharashtra. He died at the age of 90 at his residence in Latur, due to an old-age-related ailment. His passing marks the end of a political journey which spanned more than four decades and covered several key offices.&nbsp;<h2>Shivraj Singh Patil's Career and Public Life</h2>Shivraj Singh Patil was elected from the Latur city of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly for two terms from 1972 to 1978 and 1978 to 1980, holding various offices such as Deputy Minister, Law &amp; Judiciary, Irrigation and Protocol. He was first elected to the Lok Sabha from the Latur constituency in 1980. &nbsp;From 1980 to 1999, he won seven consecutive Lok Sabha elections. Patil's prominence rose quickly as he was handed the Minister for Personnel, Defence production and later held independent charge of Civil Aviation and Tourism in Rajiv Gandhi's government. He served as the 10th speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996, a role that placed him at the centre of the debates and parliamentary procedures. He became the Union Minister of Home Affairs in 2004 and served until 2008, &nbsp;but the 2006 Malegaon bombings, at a Muslim graveyard, and the 2008 26/11 Mumbai attack led to increased calls for his resignation. Taking moral responsibility for the attack, he resigned in 2008 from the Home Minister position. From 2010 to 2015, he served as Governor of Punjab and Chief Administrator of Chandigarh.<h2>Controversies around Shivraj Singh Patil</h2>Often referred to as the Nero of India by critics and the media. He was accused of not sending the Central Reserve Police Force to stop the Nandigram violence, even after repeated calls from the West Bengal Government, which resulted in the death of civilians in Police firing. He was repeatedly criticised for changing his appearance while the country was under a terror attack, drawing a similarity with the Roman emperor Nero, who played the fiddle as the city was burning. In 2007, Patil was being considered for the Presidency, but after stern opposition from the Left parties, Pratibha Patil was selected as the President candidate.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Shivraj Singh Patil passed away at 90 at his home in Latur. His political career spanned over four decades, from MLA and seven-time MP to Lok Sabha Speaker, Home Minister, and Governor of Punjab. Here’s a detailed look at his public life and controversies.

Senior Congress Leader Shivraj Singh Patil, who served in the upper echelon of Indian politics, passed away in Maharashtra. He died at the age of 90 at his residence in Latur, due to an old-age-related ailment. His passing marks the end of a political journey which spanned more than four decades and covered several key offices. Shivraj Singh Patil's Career and Public Life Shivraj Singh Patil was elected from the Latur city of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly for two terms from 1972 to 1978 and 1978 to 1980, holding various offices such as Deputy Minister, Law & Judiciary, Irrigation and Protocol. He was first elected to the Lok Sabha from the Latur constituency in 1980. From 1980 to 1999, he won seven consecutive Lok Sabha elections. Patil's prominence rose quickly as he was handed the Minister for Personnel, Defence production and later held independent charge of Civil Aviation and Tourism in Rajiv Gandhi's government. He served as the 10th speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996, a role that placed him at the centre of the debates and parliamentary procedures. He became the Union Minister of Home Affairs in 2004 and served until 2008, but the 2006 Malegaon bombings, at a Muslim graveyard, and the 2008 26/11 Mumbai attack led to increased calls for his resignation. Taking moral responsibility for the attack, he resigned in 2008 from the Home Minister position. From 2010 to 2015, he served as Governor of Punjab and Chief Administrator of Chandigarh. Controversies around Shivraj Singh Patil Often referred to as the Nero of India by critics and the media. He was accused of not sending the Central Reserve Police Force to stop the Nandigram violence, even after repeated calls from the West Bengal Government, which resulted in the death of civilians in Police firing. He was repeatedly criticised for changing his appearance while the country was under a terror attack, drawing a similarity with the Roman emperor Nero, who played the fiddle as the city was burning. In 2007, Patil was being considered for the Presidency, but after stern opposition from the Left parties, Pratibha Patil was selected as the President candidate.

Senior Congress leader Shivraj Singh Patil passed away at 90 at his home in Latur. His political career spanned over four decades, from MLA and seven-time MP to Lok Sabha Speaker, Home Minister, and Governor of Punjab. Here’s a detailed look at his public life and controversies.

Shivraj Singh Patil death: A look back at his career, controversies and public life

Thailand on Thursday (Dec 11) cancelled the visas of Luthra brothers, the two siblings linked to the Goa nightclub fire that killed 25 people. The duo was apprehended in Thailand earlier in the day. The procedure to extradite them to India for trial has commenced, with deportation expected next week. The brothers, Gaurav and Saurav Luthra, had absconded to Thailand after the tragic fire at their ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in Arpora, North Goa. The nightclub owners, who had been hiding in Phuket, have now been transferred to a Bangkok detention centre awaiting deportation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-nightclub-fire-luthra-brothers-arrested-in-thailand-extradition-to-india-underway-reports-1765425190444">Goa nightclub fire: Luthra brothers arrested in Thailand, extradition to India underway</a><h2>What is causing the delay?</h2>Citing sources in the Indian government, CNN-News18 reported that the delay stems from mandatory steps under Thai law. Since India has suspended the Luthra brothers' passports, emergency travel documents must be issued before they can be placed on a flight. While the Indian embassy is expected to expedite those papers, other legal formalities must still be completed.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-horror-at-least-15-dead-as-packed-bus-plunges-into-valley-in-alluri-sitarama-raju-district-1765506456135">Andhra Pradesh horror: At least 15 dead as packed bus plunges into valley</a><h2>Why did Thailand cancel their visa?</h2>Thai immigration officials cancelled the pair's visas on the grounds that they misled authorities about the purpose of their visit. Tourist visas are meant only for legitimate tourism, but the Interpol Blue Notice confirmed the Luthras were fugitives who fled India within hours of the December 6 blaze that killed 25 people.The brothers were tracked down at Hotel Indigo in Patong, Phuket, earlier on Thursday after Thai police acted on the Interpol alert. Meanwhile, the Goa Police revealed that their investigation into the recent fire incident found that the Luthra brothers booked flight tickets to Thailand just as emergency teams were struggling to contain the blaze and rescue those trapped inside.

Thailand has cancelled the visas of Gaurav and Saurav Luthra, the owners of ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in Goa, where a fire killed 25 on Dec 6th. The brothers were caught in Phuket but are yet to be extradited to India. What is the reason for the delay in their deportation? Deets inside

Thailand on Thursday (Dec 11) cancelled the visas of Luthra brothers, the two siblings linked to the Goa nightclub fire that killed 25 people. The duo was apprehended in Thailand earlier in the day. The procedure to extradite them to India for trial has commenced, with deportation expected next week. The brothers, Gaurav and Saurav Luthra, had absconded to Thailand after the tragic fire at their ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in Arpora, North Goa. The nightclub owners, who had been hiding in Phuket, have now been transferred to a Bangkok detention centre awaiting deportation. Also read | Goa nightclub fire: Luthra brothers arrested in Thailand, extradition to India underway What is causing the delay? Citing sources in the Indian government, CNN-News18 reported that the delay stems from mandatory steps under Thai law. Since India has suspended the Luthra brothers' passports, emergency travel documents must be issued before they can be placed on a flight. While the Indian embassy is expected to expedite those papers, other legal formalities must still be completed. Also read | Andhra Pradesh horror: At least 15 dead as packed bus plunges into valley Why did Thailand cancel their visa? Thai immigration officials cancelled the pair's visas on the grounds that they misled authorities about the purpose of their visit. Tourist visas are meant only for legitimate tourism, but the Interpol Blue Notice confirmed the Luthras were fugitives who fled India within hours of the December 6 blaze that killed 25 people. The brothers were tracked down at Hotel Indigo in Patong, Phuket, earlier on Thursday after Thai police acted on the Interpol alert. Meanwhile, the Goa Police revealed that their investigation into the recent fire incident found that the Luthra brothers booked flight tickets to Thailand just as emergency teams were struggling to contain the blaze and rescue those trapped inside.

Thailand has cancelled the visas of Gaurav and Saurav Luthra, the owners of ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in Goa, where a fire killed 25 on Dec 6th. The brothers were caught in Phuket but are yet to be extradited to India. What is the reason for the delay in their deportation? Deets inside

Thailand cancels Luthra brothers’ visas: ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ owners' deportation to India delayed. Here's why

Congress leader and former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil passed away at his residence in Latur on Friday morning. He was 90. Patil breathed his last at his home earlier in the day. He had been ill for the past few days. Shivraj Patil was born on October 12, 1935, in the village of Chakur in the Latur district, Maharashtra and was a towering figure in Indian politics, remembered for his long and distinguished career marked by several key responsibilities in Parliament, the Union government and state legislatures. A senior leader of the Indian National Congress, he served as the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha and held numerous significant positions over more than four decades in public life. Patil entered national politics in 1980 when he was first elected to the 7th Lok Sabha, and went on to retain the seat for seven consecutive terms until 2004. During the 1980-1990 period, he served on the Joint Committee on Salaries and Allowances of Members of Parliament, later becoming its Chairperson. His tenure in Parliament was marked by extensive work across ministries, serving as Minister of State for a wide range of departments, including Defence, Commerce, Science and Technology, Atomic Energy, Electronics, Space and Ocean Development, Bio-Technology, Personnel and Training, Public Grievances and Pensions, Administrative Reforms, Defence Production, Civil Aviation, and Tourism. In addition to his role as a MP, he was appointed Union Minister of Home Affairs (2004-2008). Following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, he gave his resignation on November 30, 2008, taking moral responsibility for the security lapses. Between 2010 and 2015, Patil served as the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh, further extending his contribution to public administration. He is also credited with introducing the Outstanding Parliamentarian Award, a recognition aimed at honouring exemplary parliamentary performance. Before rising to prominence in national politics, Patil was a two-term member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (1972-1979), during which he held important positions including Chairman of the Public Undertakings Committee, Deputy Minister for Law and Judiciary, Irrigation, and Protocol, and later Deputy Speaker and Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.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 senior leader of the Indian National Congress, he served as the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha and held numerous significant positions over more than four decades in public life.

Congress leader and former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil passed away at his residence in Latur on Friday morning. He was 90. Patil breathed his last at his home earlier in the day. He had been ill for the past few days. Shivraj Patil was born on October 12, 1935, in the village of Chakur in the Latur district, Maharashtra and was a towering figure in Indian politics, remembered for his long and distinguished career marked by several key responsibilities in Parliament, the Union government and state legislatures. A senior leader of the Indian National Congress, he served as the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha and held numerous significant positions over more than four decades in public life. Patil entered national politics in 1980 when he was first elected to the 7th Lok Sabha, and went on to retain the seat for seven consecutive terms until 2004. During the 1980-1990 period, he served on the Joint Committee on Salaries and Allowances of Members of Parliament, later becoming its Chairperson. His tenure in Parliament was marked by extensive work across ministries, serving as Minister of State for a wide range of departments, including Defence, Commerce, Science and Technology, Atomic Energy, Electronics, Space and Ocean Development, Bio-Technology, Personnel and Training, Public Grievances and Pensions, Administrative Reforms, Defence Production, Civil Aviation, and Tourism. In addition to his role as a MP, he was appointed Union Minister of Home Affairs (2004-2008). Following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, he gave his resignation on November 30, 2008, taking moral responsibility for the security lapses. Between 2010 and 2015, Patil served as the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh, further extending his contribution to public administration. He is also credited with introducing the Outstanding Parliamentarian Award, a recognition aimed at honouring exemplary parliamentary performance. Before rising to prominence in national politics, Patil was a two-term member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (1972-1979), during which he held important positions including Chairman of the Public Undertakings Committee, Deputy Minister for Law and Judiciary, Irrigation, and Protocol, and later Deputy Speaker and Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. 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 senior leader of the Indian National Congress, Patil served as the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha and held numerous significant positions over more than four decades in public life.

Congress leader and ex-home minister Shivraj Patil passes away at 90

US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on a phone call on Thursday (Dec 11), US Ambassador Sergio Gor confirmed. The US diplomat added that PM Modi reiterated his support for Trump’s efforts to end the war in Ukraine. This comes amid trade tension between the two countries after Trump announced 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods earlier this year, citing Russian oil imports.&nbsp;“President Trump spoke with Prime Minister Modi this morning. A GREAT call between two friends. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his support for the President’s efforts to bring peace to Ukraine,” Sergio Gor wrote on X.&nbsp;Earlier, PM Modi said that he had a “very warm and engaging” conversation with Trump. He added that the two leaders discussed bilateral relations between the nations and discussed regional and international developments. The Indian prime minister added that India and the US continue to work together for global peace.&nbsp;“Had a very warm and engaging conversation with President Trump. We reviewed the progress in our bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments. India and the U.S. will continue to work together for global peace, stability and prosperity,” PM Modi wrote on X.&nbsp;Following trade talks between the two countries in New Delhi earlier this week, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said that India’s proposal is “the best we’ve ever received as a country”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Responding to Greer’s remarks, India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that if Washington is happy with New Delhi’s proposal, they should sign the bilateral trade agreement.&nbsp;“His happiness is very much welcome. And, I do believe that if they are very happy, they should be signing on the dotted lines,” Goyal said.&nbsp;The India-US relations soured after Trump imposed additional tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil and “unfair” trade practices. The Trump administration has claimed that New Delhi’s crude imports are funding Russia’s war in Ukraine.

This comes amid trade tension between the two countries after Trump announced 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods earlier this year, citing Russian oil imports.

US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on a phone call on Thursday (Dec 11), US Ambassador Sergio Gor confirmed. The US diplomat added that PM Modi reiterated his support for Trump’s efforts to end the war in Ukraine. This comes amid trade tension between the two countries after Trump announced 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods earlier this year, citing Russian oil imports. “President Trump spoke with Prime Minister Modi this morning. A GREAT call between two friends. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his support for the President’s efforts to bring peace to Ukraine,” Sergio Gor wrote on X. Earlier, PM Modi said that he had a “very warm and engaging” conversation with Trump. He added that the two leaders discussed bilateral relations between the nations and discussed regional and international developments. The Indian prime minister added that India and the US continue to work together for global peace. “Had a very warm and engaging conversation with President Trump. We reviewed the progress in our bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments. India and the U.S. will continue to work together for global peace, stability and prosperity,” PM Modi wrote on X. Following trade talks between the two countries in New Delhi earlier this week, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said that India’s proposal is “the best we’ve ever received as a country”. Responding to Greer’s remarks, India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that if Washington is happy with New Delhi’s proposal, they should sign the bilateral trade agreement. “His happiness is very much welcome. And, I do believe that if they are very happy, they should be signing on the dotted lines,” Goyal said. The India-US relations soured after Trump imposed additional tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil and “unfair” trade practices. The Trump administration has claimed that New Delhi’s crude imports are funding Russia’s war in Ukraine.

This comes amid trade tension between the two countries after Trump announced 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods earlier this year, citing Russian oil imports.

‘GREAT call between two friends’: US envoy says PM Modi supports Trump’s peace efforts in Ukraine

The University of Western Australia (UWA), an Australian Government-established entity, is investing Rs. 500 crore (approx. $55 million USD) to set up campuses in the Indian cities of Chennai and Mumbai. This is a result of the Indian University Grants Commission (UGC) having approved UWA’s application to establish campuses in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;The UWA is looking to open these campuses at pre-existing private properties in two Indian cities, with the goal of commencing academic courses in August 2026. The UWA is among the world’s Top 100 Universities and a member of Australia’s Group of Eight, the country’s leading research-intensive institutions. By establishing a physical presence in India, UWA aims to deepen educational and economic relationships, create new research and industry partnerships, and foster opportunities for collaboration that benefit both regions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-denies-anticipatory-bail-to-luthra-brothers-ahead-of-deportation-from-thailand-in-goa-club-fire-case-1765458823728">Court denies anticipatory bail to Luthra brothers ahead of deportation from Thailand in Goa club fire case</a>&nbsp;According to UWA’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Amit Chakma, the upcoming India campuses would offer a diverse portfolio of Undergraduate and Master’s degree programmes, with a strong focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Business and Commerce courses. We are looking to enrol a total of 600 students as part of the first batch at the Chennai and Mumbai campuses, he said.&nbsp;He elaborated that over 90 per cent of the $55 million investment would be made in India, which involves hiring of local staff, Chief Academic Officer, Professors, Building leasing costs, among others.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tariff-war-widens-after-us-mexico-announces-up-to-50-tariffs-on-imports-from-india-other-asian-countries-1765454197194">Tariff war widens: After US, Mexico announces up to 50% tariffs on imports from India, other Asian countries</a>&nbsp;Speaking about the long-term vision, he said that the UWA looks to have a total of 5,000-6,000 students at both their Indian campuses by the time they enter their fifth year of operations in the country. He added that they would like to double this number when they complete a decade of operations in India. Further, they would also be working towards enrolling students from neighbouring South Asian and African nations to study at their Indian campuses, where about 30 per cent of the student intake would be International (non-Indian students).&nbsp;Queried about the rationale behind having two campuses in India, when a large number of Indian students already travel to Australia and other countries for higher education, the Vice Chancellor said that many Indian students cannot afford to visit Australia and study there, and that the country’s capacity to absorb International students is very small, when compared to the Indians aspiring to go there. He added that the efforts to establish campuses in India were undertaken in close coordination with the relevant Indian government authorities and the respective State governments.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-offers-travel-vouchers-of-10-000-to-passengers-stranded-between-dec-3-and-5-1765463688954">IndiGo offers travel vouchers of ₹10,000 to passengers stranded between Dec 3 and 5</a>&nbsp;“The annual fee structure for courses in our India campuses would be similar to what domestic students in Australia pay for their college education. Therefore, it would be significantly more affordable than what International (Indian) students pay to stay and study in our Australian campuses,” Amit Chakma told WION.&nbsp;&nbsp;On the aspect of partnerships with Indian academia and industry, he said that the UWA is working with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Indian Institute of Management (IIM) campuses, besides private Universities and industries on various aspects of collaboration.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-remove-a-single-name-from-voter-list-face-dharna-bengal-cm-mamata-banerjee-warns-on-sir-1765448347692">‘Remove a single name from voter list, face dharna’: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee warns on SIR</a>&nbsp;“UWA’s collaboration with Indian IT firm HCLTech will deliver first-of-its kind global micro-credentials in AI, cybersecurity, digital engineering and technology leadership, co-developed by UWA and HCLTech. This partnership will link India’s advanced tech ecosystem with UWA’s global expertise and create employability pipelines across both regions,” UWA announced. This initiative would culminate in the Indo-Pacific Hackathon delivered with the Indo-Australian Chamber of Commerce and the Indian Ministry of Electronics, Information Technology (MEITY), allowing students to solve real-world problems in emerging technologies.

By establishing a physical presence in India, the University of Western Australia aims to deepen educational and economic relationships, create new research and industry partnerships, and foster opportunities for collaboration that benefit both regions.

The University of Western Australia (UWA), an Australian Government-established entity, is investing Rs. 500 crore (approx. $55 million USD) to set up campuses in the Indian cities of Chennai and Mumbai. This is a result of the Indian University Grants Commission (UGC) having approved UWA’s application to establish campuses in the country. The UWA is looking to open these campuses at pre-existing private properties in two Indian cities, with the goal of commencing academic courses in August 2026. The UWA is among the world’s Top 100 Universities and a member of Australia’s Group of Eight, the country’s leading research-intensive institutions. By establishing a physical presence in India, UWA aims to deepen educational and economic relationships, create new research and industry partnerships, and foster opportunities for collaboration that benefit both regions. Also Read: Court denies anticipatory bail to Luthra brothers ahead of deportation from Thailand in Goa club fire case According to UWA’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Amit Chakma, the upcoming India campuses would offer a diverse portfolio of Undergraduate and Master’s degree programmes, with a strong focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Business and Commerce courses. We are looking to enrol a total of 600 students as part of the first batch at the Chennai and Mumbai campuses, he said. He elaborated that over 90 per cent of the $55 million investment would be made in India, which involves hiring of local staff, Chief Academic Officer, Professors, Building leasing costs, among others. Also Read: Tariff war widens: After US, Mexico announces up to 50% tariffs on imports from India, other Asian countries Speaking about the long-term vision, he said that the UWA looks to have a total of 5,000-6,000 students at both their Indian campuses by the time they enter their fifth year of operations in the country. He added that they would like to double this number when they complete a decade of operations in India. Further, they would also be working towards enrolling students from neighbouring South Asian and African nations to study at their Indian campuses, where about 30 per cent of the student intake would be International (non-Indian students). Queried about the rationale behind having two campuses in India, when a large number of Indian students already travel to Australia and other countries for higher education, the Vice Chancellor said that many Indian students cannot afford to visit Australia and study there, and that the country’s capacity to absorb International students is very small, when compared to the Indians aspiring to go there. He added that the efforts to establish campuses in India were undertaken in close coordination with the relevant Indian government authorities and the respective State governments. Also Read: IndiGo offers travel vouchers of ₹10,000 to passengers stranded between Dec 3 and 5 “The annual fee structure for courses in our India campuses would be similar to what domestic students in Australia pay for their college education. Therefore, it would be significantly more affordable than what International (Indian) students pay to stay and study in our Australian campuses,” Amit Chakma told WION. On the aspect of partnerships with Indian academia and industry, he said that the UWA is working with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Indian Institute of Management (IIM) campuses, besides private Universities and industries on various aspects of collaboration. Also Read: ‘Remove a single name from voter list, face dharna’: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee warns on SIR “UWA’s collaboration with Indian IT firm HCLTech will deliver first-of-its kind global micro-credentials in AI, cybersecurity, digital engineering and technology leadership, co-developed by UWA and HCLTech. This partnership will link India’s advanced tech ecosystem with UWA’s global expertise and create employability pipelines across both regions,” UWA announced. This initiative would culminate in the Indo-Pacific Hackathon delivered with the Indo-Australian Chamber of Commerce and the Indian Ministry of Electronics, Information Technology (MEITY), allowing students to solve real-world problems in emerging technologies.

By establishing a physical presence in India, the University of Western Australia aims to deepen educational and economic relationships, create new research and industry partnerships, and foster opportunities for collaboration that benefit both regions.

University of Western Australia to invest $55mn, set up campuses in Chennai, Mumbai

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a "warm and engaging" telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 11). PM Modi said they reviewed the progress in US-India bilateral relations during the call. “Had a very warm and engaging conversation with President Trump. We reviewed the progress in our bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments. India and the US will continue to work together for global peace, stability, and prosperity,” the Indian PM wrote on X.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-russia-recruiting-africans-to-fight-in-ukraine-war-ex-south-african-president-s-daughter-accused-of-luring-17-men-for-this-1764938371858">Is Russia recruiting Africans to fight in Ukraine war? Ex-South African president’s daughter accused of luring 17 men for this</a>&nbsp;Both leaders exchanged views on expanding cooperation in trade, critical technologies, energy, defence, and security. According to an official statement, the two leaders discussed ways to sustain momentum in efforts to enhance bilateral trade.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had a very warm and engaging conversation with President Trump. We reviewed the progress in our bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments. India and the U.S. will continue to work together for global peace, stability and prosperity.…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1999117745426952581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This came after the US representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove slammed Trump for his policy towards India.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wants-revenge-virologist-who-claimed-covid-was-developed-in-wuhan-says-beijing-is-using-her-family-to-lure-her-back-from-us-1765204872566">China wants REVENGE? Virologist, who claimed coronavirus was developed in Wuhan, says Beijing is using her family to 'lure' her back from US</a>&nbsp;"Trump's policies towards India can only be described as cutting our nose to spite our face... Being a coercive partner has a cost. And this poster is worth a thousand words," she said.&nbsp;"We must move with incredible urgency to mitigate the damage that this administration has done to the US-India partnership and return to the cooperation that is essential to US prosperity, security, and global leadership," she added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-imran-khan-mentally-ill-pakistan-military-slams-former-pm-accuses-him-of-building-anti-islamabad-narrative-1764935781999">Is Imran Khan mentally ill? Pakistan military slams former PM, accuses him of building anti-Islamabad narrative</a>&nbsp;

According to an official statement, the two leaders discussed ways to sustain momentum in efforts to enhance bilateral trade. This came after the US representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove slammed Trump for his policy towards India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a "warm and engaging" telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 11). PM Modi said they reviewed the progress in US-India bilateral relations during the call. “Had a very warm and engaging conversation with President Trump. We reviewed the progress in our bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments. India and the US will continue to work together for global peace, stability, and prosperity,” the Indian PM wrote on X. Also read: Is Russia recruiting Africans to fight in Ukraine war? Ex-South African president’s daughter accused of luring 17 men for this Both leaders exchanged views on expanding cooperation in trade, critical technologies, energy, defence, and security. According to an official statement, the two leaders discussed ways to sustain momentum in efforts to enhance bilateral trade.

According to an official statement, the two leaders discussed ways to sustain momentum in efforts to enhance bilateral trade. This came after the US representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove slammed Trump for his policy towards India.

PM Modi-Trump hold ‘warm and engaging’ telephonic conversation, discuss regional and international developments

IndiGo Airlines, which is in the dock after its flight cancellations led to a massive aviation crisis for days, announced on Thursday that it will offer travel vouchers worth ₹10,000 to each passenger whose flights were cancelled or delayed for long during December 3-5. The compensation would be in addition to the amount that needs to be provided to passengers for flight cancellations under DGCA norms. The travel voucher can be used for any future IndiGo journey and will be valid for 12 months, the airline said on Thursday.&nbsp;The travel voucher is in addition to the compensation of ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the block time of the flight, for customers whose flights were cancelled within 24 hours of departure time.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-denies-anticipatory-bail-to-luthra-brothers-ahead-of-deportation-from-thailand-in-goa-club-fire-case-1765458823728">Court denies anticipatory bail to Luthra brothers ahead of deportation from Thailand in Goa club fire case</a>&nbsp;“IndiGo regrettably acknowledges that part of our customers travelling on 3/4/5 December 2025 were stranded for many hours at certain airports, and a number of them were severely impacted due to congestion. We will offer travel vouchers worth INR 10,000 to such severely impacted customers. These travel vouchers can be used for any future IndiGo journey for the next 12 months,” the airlines said.&nbsp;The crisis-hit airlines also said that most of the refunds have been cleared and the remaining will be done soon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dgca-orders-urgent-inspections-at-11-airports-to-ensure-smooth-operations-after-indigo-chaos-1765367066081">DGCA orders urgent inspections at 11 airports to ensure smooth operations after IndiGo chaos</a>&nbsp;IndiGo Airlines was pushed into crisis last week after operational disruptions led to cancellation and delays of thousands of flights across the country. Thousands of passengers were left stranded after the disruption of flight operations.&nbsp;The airline is facing regulatory heat, and authorities have directed it to reduce winter schedule flights by 10 per cent to stabilise its operations. The carrier was operating around 2,300 flights a day before the disruptions started on December 2.&nbsp;On Wednesday, IndiGo chairman Vikram Singh Mehta dismissed the allegations that the airline “engineered the crisis” and “tried to influence government rules”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tariff-war-widens-after-us-mexico-announces-up-to-50-tariffs-on-imports-from-india-other-asian-countries-1765454197194">Tariff war widens: After US, Mexico announces up to 50% tariffs on imports from India, other Asian countries</a>

The travel voucher is in addition to the compensation of ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the block time of the flight, for customers whose flights were cancelled within 24 hours of departure time. Thousands of passengers were left stranded after the disruption of flight operations.

IndiGo Airlines, which is in the dock after its flight cancellations led to a massive aviation crisis for days, announced on Thursday that it will offer travel vouchers worth ₹10,000 to each passenger whose flights were cancelled or delayed for long during December 3-5. The compensation would be in addition to the amount that needs to be provided to passengers for flight cancellations under DGCA norms. The travel voucher can be used for any future IndiGo journey and will be valid for 12 months, the airline said on Thursday. The travel voucher is in addition to the compensation of ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the block time of the flight, for customers whose flights were cancelled within 24 hours of departure time. Also Read: Court denies anticipatory bail to Luthra brothers ahead of deportation from Thailand in Goa club fire case “IndiGo regrettably acknowledges that part of our customers travelling on 3/4/5 December 2025 were stranded for many hours at certain airports, and a number of them were severely impacted due to congestion. We will offer travel vouchers worth INR 10,000 to such severely impacted customers. These travel vouchers can be used for any future IndiGo journey for the next 12 months,” the airlines said. The crisis-hit airlines also said that most of the refunds have been cleared and the remaining will be done soon. Also Read: DGCA orders urgent inspections at 11 airports to ensure smooth operations after IndiGo chaos IndiGo Airlines was pushed into crisis last week after operational disruptions led to cancellation and delays of thousands of flights across the country. Thousands of passengers were left stranded after the disruption of flight operations. The airline is facing regulatory heat, and authorities have directed it to reduce winter schedule flights by 10 per cent to stabilise its operations. The carrier was operating around 2,300 flights a day before the disruptions started on December 2. On Wednesday, IndiGo chairman Vikram Singh Mehta dismissed the allegations that the airline “engineered the crisis” and “tried to influence government rules”. Also Read: Tariff war widens: After US, Mexico announces up to 50% tariffs on imports from India, other Asian countries

The travel voucher is in addition to the compensation of ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the block time of the flight, for customers whose flights were cancelled within 24 hours of departure time. Thousands of passengers were left stranded after the disruption of flight operations.

IndiGo offers travel vouchers of ₹10,000 to passengers stranded between Dec 3 and 5

A Delhi court on Thursday dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the Goa nightclub where at least 25 people died in a fire incident on December 6, 2025. During the hearing, Goa Police told the court that the Luthra brothers had shown no cooperation during the probe and had also misled the authorities about when they left India. “There is no cooperation on the part of Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, which disentitled them for extraordinary protection by this court. They have no business in Thailand. They left the country on December 7 but said that they had left on the night of December 6. Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra misled the court, misled the authorities and left the country,” Goa Police told the court.&nbsp;In their bail petition, the Luthras had claimed that they were in Thailand for a business meeting, had no intention of evading authorities, and were not present at the club when the fire broke out. They had sought four weeks of transit anticipatory bail so they would not be arrested immediately upon their return.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tariff-war-widens-after-us-mexico-announces-up-to-50-tariffs-on-imports-from-india-other-asian-countries-1765454197194">Tariff war widens: After US, Mexico announces up to 50% tariffs on imports from India, other Asian countries</a><h2>Luthra brothers detained, to be deported soon</h2>&nbsp;Both Saurabh and Gaurav have been detained in Thailand and are expected to be deported soon. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has said that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Goa Police are working to ensure that the accused Luthra brothers are brought to India at the earliest.&nbsp;The two brothers are accused of injury causing death, manslaughter, and murder by organising a fire show “without taking proper care and caution and without providing fire safety equipment, other safety gadgets”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-remove-a-single-name-from-voter-list-face-dharna-bengal-cm-mamata-banerjee-warns-on-sir-1765448347692">‘Remove a single name from voter list, face dharna’: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee warns on SIR</a><h2>Duo booked flights even as emergency teams were battling blaze: Probe</h2>&nbsp;The Goa Police investigation revealed that the brothers booked flight tickets to Thailand even as emergency teams were battling the blaze.According to reports, the Luthras made an immediate attempt to evade arrest and booked their air tickets for Phuket through a travel portal at 1:17 am on December 7, a little over an hour after learning about the fire at their nightclub.&nbsp;Earlier on Wednesday, a New Delhi court declined to grant interim protection from arrest to the brothers. Their lawyers argued that the Luthras had not fled the country but were on a business trip and maintained that they were licensees, not owners, of the nightclub.&nbsp;They further contended that day-to-day operations were managed by the club’s staff, absolving the brothers of direct responsibility.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-to-seek-five-year-social-media-history-of-foreign-tourists-before-entry-1765384997336">US plans to seek five-year social media history of foreign tourists before entry</a>&nbsp;Goa Police have arrested five managers and staff members in connection with the deadly fire.

The Goa Police investigation revealed that the brothers booked flight tickets to Thailand even as emergency teams were battling the blaze. According to reports, the Luthras took immediate steps to evade arrest and booked air tickets for Phuket through a travel portal at 1:17 am on December 7.

A Delhi court on Thursday dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the Goa nightclub where at least 25 people died in a fire incident on December 6, 2025. During the hearing, Goa Police told the court that the Luthra brothers had shown no cooperation during the probe and had also misled the authorities about when they left India. “There is no cooperation on the part of Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, which disentitled them for extraordinary protection by this court. They have no business in Thailand. They left the country on December 7 but said that they had left on the night of December 6. Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra misled the court, misled the authorities and left the country,” Goa Police told the court. In their bail petition, the Luthras had claimed that they were in Thailand for a business meeting, had no intention of evading authorities, and were not present at the club when the fire broke out. They had sought four weeks of transit anticipatory bail so they would not be arrested immediately upon their return. Also Read: Tariff war widens: After US, Mexico announces up to 50% tariffs on imports from India, other Asian countries Luthra brothers detained, to be deported soon Both Saurabh and Gaurav have been detained in Thailand and are expected to be deported soon. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has said that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Goa Police are working to ensure that the accused Luthra brothers are brought to India at the earliest. The two brothers are accused of injury causing death, manslaughter, and murder by organising a fire show “without taking proper care and caution and without providing fire safety equipment, other safety gadgets”. Also Read: ‘Remove a single name from voter list, face dharna’: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee warns on SIR Duo booked flights even as emergency teams were battling blaze: Probe The Goa Police investigation revealed that the brothers booked flight tickets to Thailand even as emergency teams were battling the blaze. According to reports, the Luthras made an immediate attempt to evade arrest and booked their air tickets for Phuket through a travel portal at 1:17 am on December 7, a little over an hour after learning about the fire at their nightclub. Earlier on Wednesday, a New Delhi court declined to grant interim protection from arrest to the brothers. Their lawyers argued that the Luthras had not fled the country but were on a business trip and maintained that they were licensees, not owners, of the nightclub. They further contended that day-to-day operations were managed by the club’s staff, absolving the brothers of direct responsibility. Also Read: US plans to seek five-year social media history of foreign tourists before entry Goa Police have arrested five managers and staff members in connection with the deadly fire.

The Goa Police investigation revealed that the brothers booked flight tickets to Thailand even as emergency teams were battling the blaze. According to reports, the Luthras took immediate steps to evade arrest and booked air tickets for Phuket through a travel portal at 1:17 am on December 7.

Court denies anticipatory bail to Luthra brothers ahead of deportation from Thailand in Goa club fire case

Indigo announces Rs 10,000 voucher for those passengers who were "severely impacted" during the operation meltdown between December 5-7. The airlines mentioned in a press release on December 11 (Thursday), and it also added that it had already processed the refunds."IndiGo sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused to customers travelling on December 3, 4, and 5, 2025, many of whom were waiting for several hours to get through the airport due to their being congested. Passengers filtered by a vortex will get endowed with travel coupons worth ₹10,000, which will be valid for a period of one year," read the press release.&nbsp;<h2>Who is eligible for Indigo’s 10,000 travel voucher?</h2>The airlines have mentioned that the Rs 10000 voucher will be for those customers who were “severely impacted” during the disruption of December 5-7. However, Indigo has not specified the criteria for the same, but it has requested affected customers to reach out directly.&nbsp;<h2>How to claim Indigo’s 10,000 voucher for December flight cancellations?&nbsp;</h2>Indigo has requested customers to reach out via <a href="mailto:customer.experience@goindigo.in">customer.experience@goindigo.in</a> for their voucher. If the booking was done by a third-party application, the passenger is still requested to connect directly for assistance related to the mail and vouchers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Is Indigo giving the 10,000 voucher in addition to refunds?</h2>The airline has mentioned in its statement that it has already initiated the refund for the customers whose flights were cancelled, and most have already been processed. The voucher is in addition to the refunds for those customers who were stranded for a long time or otherwise impacted. Apart from these, the airline, as per the DGCA compensation structure, will provide compensation to passengers whose flights were cancelled within 24 hours of departure with Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000.<h2>How long will the vouchers be valid?</h2>The voucher will be valid for 12 months at most. Moreover the &nbsp;DGCA-guided compulsory compensation will depend on the block time of the flight.<h2>&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

IndiGo is offering a 10,000 travel voucher to passengers severely impacted during the Dec 5-7 operational meltdown. Check eligibility, claim steps, and validity.

Indigo announces Rs 10,000 voucher for those passengers who were "severely impacted" during the operation meltdown between December 5-7. The airlines mentioned in a press release on December 11 (Thursday), and it also added that it had already processed the refunds. "IndiGo sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused to customers travelling on December 3, 4, and 5, 2025, many of whom were waiting for several hours to get through the airport due to their being congested. Passengers filtered by a vortex will get endowed with travel coupons worth ₹10,000, which will be valid for a period of one year," read the press release. Who is eligible for Indigo’s 10,000 travel voucher? The airlines have mentioned that the Rs 10000 voucher will be for those customers who were “severely impacted” during the disruption of December 5-7. However, Indigo has not specified the criteria for the same, but it has requested affected customers to reach out directly. How to claim Indigo’s 10,000 voucher for December flight cancellations? Indigo has requested customers to reach out via customer.experience@goindigo.in for their voucher. If the booking was done by a third-party application, the passenger is still requested to connect directly for assistance related to the mail and vouchers. Is Indigo giving the 10,000 voucher in addition to refunds? The airline has mentioned in its statement that it has already initiated the refund for the customers whose flights were cancelled, and most have already been processed. The voucher is in addition to the refunds for those customers who were stranded for a long time or otherwise impacted. Apart from these, the airline, as per the DGCA compensation structure, will provide compensation to passengers whose flights were cancelled within 24 hours of departure with Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. How long will the vouchers be valid? The voucher will be valid for 12 months at most. Moreover the DGCA-guided compulsory compensation will depend on the block time of the flight.

IndiGo is offering a 10,000 travel voucher to passengers severely impacted during the December 5–7 operational meltdown. Check eligibility, claim steps, and validity.

Who gets 10,000 from IndiGo? Airline announces travel vouchers for passengers stranded between December 5 -7: Full details inside

Jailed JNU student Umar Khalid was granted an interim bail by a Delhi court on Thursday (Dec 11) to attend his sister's wedding. He is one of the accused in the 2020 Delhi riots. He will be out of jail from December 16 to 29. According to a report in Bar and Bench, the court has ordered Khalid not to use social media and to meet only his family members, relatives, and friends.&nbsp;This came a month after the &nbsp;Indian Supreme Court, while listening to the bail plea of Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and others accused, was told that the Delhi riots in 2020 were "pre planned". Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Additional Solicitor General SV Raju appeared for the Delhi Police in the court on Tuesday (Nov 18) and argued that the riots were “pre-planned". They claimed that the accused had delayed the trial; hence, the five years in jail should not be the grounds for their bail.&nbsp;The Delhi police also argued on October 30 that Khalid and his co-accused had used “sponsored” anti-CAA protests as a disguise and a “radicalising catalyst” to trigger nationwide communal riots. The apex court scheduled the next hearing for November 20. Mehta said in his argument, “First of all, that myth to be busted. This was not a spontaneous riot. It was a well designed, well crafted, well orchestrated, pre-planned riot. That will emerge from the evidence collected."&nbsp;“Speech after speech, statement after statement, there was attempt to divide the society on communal lines. It was not merely an agitation against some act," he added.&nbsp;The apex court scheduled the next hearing for November 20. Mehta said in his argument, “First of all, that myth to be busted. This was not a spontaneous riot. It was a well designed, well crafted, well orchestrated, pre-planned riot. That will emerge from the evidence collected."&nbsp;“Speech after speech, statement after statement, there was attempt to divide the society on communal lines. It was not merely an agitation against some act," he added. &nbsp;

Jailed JNU student Umar Khalid was granted an interim bail by a Delhi court on Thursday (Dec 11) to attend his sister wedding. He is one of the accused in the 2020 Delhi riots. He will be out of jail from December 16 to 29.

Jailed JNU student Umar Khalid was granted an interim bail by a Delhi court on Thursday (Dec 11) to attend his sister's wedding. He is one of the accused in the 2020 Delhi riots. He will be out of jail from December 16 to 29. According to a report in Bar and Bench, the court has ordered Khalid not to use social media and to meet only his family members, relatives, and friends. This came a month after the Indian Supreme Court, while listening to the bail plea of Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and others accused, was told that the Delhi riots in 2020 were "pre planned". Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Additional Solicitor General SV Raju appeared for the Delhi Police in the court on Tuesday (Nov 18) and argued that the riots were “pre-planned". They claimed that the accused had delayed the trial; hence, the five years in jail should not be the grounds for their bail. The Delhi police also argued on October 30 that Khalid and his co-accused had used “sponsored” anti-CAA protests as a disguise and a “radicalising catalyst” to trigger nationwide communal riots. The apex court scheduled the next hearing for November 20. Mehta said in his argument, “First of all, that myth to be busted. This was not a spontaneous riot. It was a well designed, well crafted, well orchestrated, pre-planned riot. That will emerge from the evidence collected." “Speech after speech, statement after statement, there was attempt to divide the society on communal lines. It was not merely an agitation against some act," he added. The apex court scheduled the next hearing for November 20. Mehta said in his argument, “First of all, that myth to be busted. This was not a spontaneous riot. It was a well designed, well crafted, well orchestrated, pre-planned riot. That will emerge from the evidence collected." “Speech after speech, statement after statement, there was attempt to divide the society on communal lines. It was not merely an agitation against some act," he added.

Jailed JNU student Umar Khalid was granted an interim bail by a Delhi court on Thursday (Dec 11) to attend his sister's wedding. He is one of the accused in the 2020 Delhi riots. He will be out of jail from December 16 to 29.

Umar Khalid gets bail for sister's wedding, not allowed to use social media, will only meet...

The Indian Embassy in Thailand has advised Indian travellers to check official updates before visiting areas near the Thailand-Cambodia border, where tensions have escalated in recent days. "In view of the situation near the Thailand-Cambodia border, Indian travellers who plan to visit these areas are advised to check updates from Thai official sources," the Embassy said. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand Newsroom, travel across the country continues normally and restrictions are limited to selected border areas. "Travel across Thailand remains normal. Security measures are in place only in selected border areas near Cambodia," the agency said. Rail services to Ban Khlong Luek have been suspended, while buses to Kantharalak are being diverted through the Karnchang Intersection. Travellers have also been advised to avoid Route 348 in Buri Ram. Major tourist destinations, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Samui, Krabi, Pattaya and Ayutthaya, remain open and continue to receive visitors as usual. UNESCO has raised strong concern over the renewed tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, including around the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In a statement, UNESCO called for urgent protection of cultural heritage in "all its forms" and reminded both countries of their obligations under the 1954 Hague Convention and the 1972 World Heritage Convention. "UNESCO will continue to monitor the situation of cultural heritage in the region, with a view to ensuring its protection," the organisation said. It added that it is ready to provide technical assistance and emergency protection measures "as soon as conditions allow." The statement comes amidst reports of escalating tensions between Thailand and Cambodia on the border that began on December 10 with artillery and rocket attacks against civilians. As per local media reports, each side has blamed the other for the attacks. Earlier this year in May, a Cambodian soldier was killed and Thai troops were injured in a landmine blast near the disputed area. That incident was followed by rocket strikes and cross-border fighting, resulting in at least nine civilian deaths, including women and children, by July 2025. Following this the US President Donald Trump's administration and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim helped broker a truce between the two countries that was sealed on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur. On Thursday morning, Cambodia's Defence Ministry said that Thai F-16 aircraft dropped munitions on five provinces. The ministry described the attacks on both military and civilian areas as a serious violation of international humanitarian law. It said Cambodian forces remain in defensive positions and continue to resist Thai advances. Cambodia's Ministry of the Interior on December 10 said homes, schools, roads, Buddhist pagodas and ancient temples had been damaged by "Thailand's intensified shelling and F-16 air strikes targeting villages and civilian population centres up to 30km [18.6 miles] inside Cambodian territory". "It should be noted that ... these brutal acts of aggression of the Thai military indiscriminately opened fire targeting civilian areas, especially schools, and further destroyed Ta Krabey and Preah Vihear temples, the highly sacred cultural sites of Cambodia and the world cultural heritage," it said. As per a report in the Bangkok Post, the Thai Ministry of Defence said on Thursday that nine soldiers have been killed and 120 injured after five straight days of attacks. Cambodian officials said 10 civilians have perished and around 60 have been seriously hurt. It has not disclosed military casualties but unconfirmed reports have said at least eight soldiers had died. The US president said he expected to speak on Thursday with the leaders of Thailand and Cambodia to demand a halt to their renewed clashes. The call would likely take place late Thursday night Thailand time. "I think I'm scheduled to speak to them tomorrow," Trump told reporters at the White House on Wednesday. "They've been fighting for a very long time, many, many, many decades," he said. "But I got along great with both. I found they were two great leaders, two great people, and I settled it once. I think I can do it pretty quickly. I think, I think I can get them to stop fighting. Who else can do that? Think of it." Trump said as reported in the Bangkok Post. Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim took to his official Facebook page today to post that he had spoken last night with the prime ministers of both Cambodia and Thailand about the ongoing tensions, but said no complete resolution has yet been reached. He added that Malaysia will continue to support peaceful dialogue based on international law and regional cooperation to safeguard stability and security. Cambodia and Thailand have been locked in a decades-long disagreement over the jurisdiction of various non-demarcated areas along their shared land border, which stretches more than 800 kilometres. The two countries have disputed their land border ever since the colonial era map was drawn in 1907 by France, then the colonial administrator in Cambodia. As per the map the temple was placed in Cambodia. Although the International Court of Justice in 1962 ruled that Preah Vihear belongs to Cambodia, tensions flared again in 2008 when Cambodia sought UNESCO World Heritage status for the temple, leading to years of sporadic clashes. Cambodia went to court in 2011, following several military clashes that killed about 20 people. The court reaffirmed the ruling in 2013.&nbsp;&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.

Rail services to Ban Khlong Luek have been suspended, while buses to Kantharalak are being diverted through the Karnchang Intersection. Travellers have also been advised to avoid Route 348 in Buri Ram.

The Indian Embassy in Thailand has advised Indian travellers to check official updates before visiting areas near the Thailand-Cambodia border, where tensions have escalated in recent days. "In view of the situation near the Thailand-Cambodia border, Indian travellers who plan to visit these areas are advised to check updates from Thai official sources," the Embassy said. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand Newsroom, travel across the country continues normally and restrictions are limited to selected border areas. "Travel across Thailand remains normal. Security measures are in place only in selected border areas near Cambodia," the agency said. Rail services to Ban Khlong Luek have been suspended, while buses to Kantharalak are being diverted through the Karnchang Intersection. Travellers have also been advised to avoid Route 348 in Buri Ram. Major tourist destinations, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Samui, Krabi, Pattaya and Ayutthaya, remain open and continue to receive visitors as usual. UNESCO has raised strong concern over the renewed tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, including around the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In a statement, UNESCO called for urgent protection of cultural heritage in "all its forms" and reminded both countries of their obligations under the 1954 Hague Convention and the 1972 World Heritage Convention. "UNESCO will continue to monitor the situation of cultural heritage in the region, with a view to ensuring its protection," the organisation said. It added that it is ready to provide technical assistance and emergency protection measures "as soon as conditions allow." The statement comes amidst reports of escalating tensions between Thailand and Cambodia on the border that began on December 10 with artillery and rocket attacks against civilians. As per local media reports, each side has blamed the other for the attacks. Earlier this year in May, a Cambodian soldier was killed and Thai troops were injured in a landmine blast near the disputed area. That incident was followed by rocket strikes and cross-border fighting, resulting in at least nine civilian deaths, including women and children, by July 2025. Following this the US President Donald Trump's administration and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim helped broker a truce between the two countries that was sealed on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur. On Thursday morning, Cambodia's Defence Ministry said that Thai F-16 aircraft dropped munitions on five provinces. The ministry described the attacks on both military and civilian areas as a serious violation of international humanitarian law. It said Cambodian forces remain in defensive positions and continue to resist Thai advances. Cambodia's Ministry of the Interior on December 10 said homes, schools, roads, Buddhist pagodas and ancient temples had been damaged by "Thailand's intensified shelling and F-16 air strikes targeting villages and civilian population centres up to 30km [18.6 miles] inside Cambodian territory". "It should be noted that ... these brutal acts of aggression of the Thai military indiscriminately opened fire targeting civilian areas, especially schools, and further destroyed Ta Krabey and Preah Vihear temples, the highly sacred cultural sites of Cambodia and the world cultural heritage," it said. As per a report in the Bangkok Post, the Thai Ministry of Defence said on Thursday that nine soldiers have been killed and 120 injured after five straight days of attacks. Cambodian officials said 10 civilians have perished and around 60 have been seriously hurt. It has not disclosed military casualties but unconfirmed reports have said at least eight soldiers had died. The US president said he expected to speak on Thursday with the leaders of Thailand and Cambodia to demand a halt to their renewed clashes. The call would likely take place late Thursday night Thailand time. "I think I'm scheduled to speak to them tomorrow," Trump told reporters at the White House on Wednesday. "They've been fighting for a very long time, many, many, many decades," he said. "But I got along great with both. I found they were two great leaders, two great people, and I settled it once. I think I can do it pretty quickly. I think, I think I can get them to stop fighting. Who else can do that? Think of it." Trump said as reported in the Bangkok Post. Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim took to his official Facebook page today to post that he had spoken last night with the prime ministers of both Cambodia and Thailand about the ongoing tensions, but said no complete resolution has yet been reached. He added that Malaysia will continue to support peaceful dialogue based on international law and regional cooperation to safeguard stability and security. Cambodia and Thailand have been locked in a decades-long disagreement over the jurisdiction of various non-demarcated areas along their shared land border, which stretches more than 800 kilometres. The two countries have disputed their land border ever since the colonial era map was drawn in 1907 by France, then the colonial administrator in Cambodia. As per the map the temple was placed in Cambodia. Although the International Court of Justice in 1962 ruled that Preah Vihear belongs to Cambodia, tensions flared again in 2008 when Cambodia sought UNESCO World Heritage status for the temple, leading to years of sporadic clashes. Cambodia went to court in 2011, following several military clashes that killed about 20 people. The court reaffirmed the ruling in 2013. 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.

Rail services to Ban Khlong Luek have been suspended, while buses to Kantharalak are being diverted through the Karnchang Intersection. Travellers have also been advised to avoid Route 348 in Buri Ram.

India issues advisory for travellers as Thailand-Cambodia border tensions escalate

Two young men found a diamond worth over Rs 50 lakh in a small pit on a 40-gaj plot leased for Rs 200 just 20 days ago in the Panna district of Madhya Pradesh. They discovered a 15.34-carat diamond in their small mining plot after they began work. In response to the finding, officials confirmed that the rare stone, marked as “jam quality”, was dug out from the Krishna Kalyanpur belt, and it is likely to fetch a price of over Rs 50 lakh in the auction.&nbsp;According to a report in the ET, the diamond was found by 24-year-old Satish Khatik and 23-year-old Sajid Mohammad, both from the Rani Ganj locality. As per the Panna diamond officer, Satish had taken a 6 x 6 metre diamond pit on lease in Krishna Kalyanpur in the Patti area by paying a deposit of Rs 200.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Duo in India&#39;s Madhya Pradesh unearth 15.34 carat diamond worth over Rs 50 lakh. How did they make the discovery? <a href="https://twitter.com/BislaDiksha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BislaDiksha</a> has more. <a href="https://t.co/TDNg8YfGwk">pic.twitter.com/TDNg8YfGwk</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1999052500805226748?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The duo had secured the lease just three weeks earlier to support their families and raise money for their sisters’ weddings. Satish runs a small shop, while Sajid sells fruits. Although Sajid’s father and grandfather spent years working in the local mines, they never came across a high-value gem. Hoping for a change in fortune, the friends decided to try their luck.&nbsp;While digging in the shallow pit, they unearthed a sparkling 15.34-carat diamond, which they immediately submitted to the district diamond office. Officials inspected the stone and classified it as one of the finest finds.<h3>Officials say diamond may go for more than Rs 50 lakh&nbsp;</h3>Diamond officer Ravi Patel confirmed that its weight, clarity and brilliance place it among the top-grade stones discovered in 2025. Expert Anupam Singh also described it as the highest-quality diamond recovered from Panna this year.&nbsp;Officials indicated that the value of the diamond may go for more than Rs 50 lakh once it enters the auction. The amount after selling the diamond will be divided equally between the friends. Speaking to the news agency IANS, he said, “I discovered the diamond yesterday, which is 15.34 carats in weight. I will soon place it in the district auction office.”

The diamond was found by 24-year-old Satish Khatik and 23-year-old Sajid Mohammad, both from the Rani Ganj locality. As per the Panna diamond officer, Satish had taken a 6 x 6 metre diamond pit on lease in Krishna Kalyanpur in the Patti area by paying a deposit of Rs 200.

Two young men found a diamond worth over Rs 50 lakh in a small pit on a 40-gaj plot leased for Rs 200 just 20 days ago in the Panna district of Madhya Pradesh. They discovered a 15.34-carat diamond in their small mining plot after they began work. In response to the finding, officials confirmed that the rare stone, marked as “jam quality”, was dug out from the Krishna Kalyanpur belt, and it is likely to fetch a price of over Rs 50 lakh in the auction. According to a report in the ET, the diamond was found by 24-year-old Satish Khatik and 23-year-old Sajid Mohammad, both from the Rani Ganj locality. As per the Panna diamond officer, Satish had taken a 6 x 6 metre diamond pit on lease in Krishna Kalyanpur in the Patti area by paying a deposit of Rs 200.

The diamond was found by 24-year-old Satish Khatik and 23-year-old Sajid Mohammad, both from the Rani Ganj locality. As per the Panna diamond officer, Satish had taken a 6 x 6 metre diamond pit on lease in Krishna Kalyanpur in the Patti area by paying a deposit of Rs 200.

WATCH | Two friends in Madhya Pradesh find Rs 50 lakh diamond on plot leased for Rs 200

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee alleged on Thursday that the Election Commission is sending BJP-inclined officials for Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bengal and warned that she will sit on a ‘dharna’ if even one eligible person’s name is struck off the voter list. Addressing a rally in at Krishnanagar, Mamata claimed that she has not filled her enumeration form till now, asking, “Do I need to prove my citizenship to party of rioters”. “Union home minister can do anything to label all Bengalis as Bangladeshis and send them to detention camps,” she alleged.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-rajiv-gandhi-brought-evms-sir-done-several-times-under-nehru-indira-also-shah-slams-opposition-1765377338762">‘Rajiv Gandhi brought EVMs, SIR done several times under Nehru, Indira also’: Shah slams Opposition</a><h2>‘There will be no detention camps in West Bengal’</h2>&nbsp;Claiming that the SIR was being used as a political weapon prior to the 2026 Bengal assembly polls, Banerjee said, “If even a single eligible voter’s name is struck off, I will sit on a dharna. There will be no detention camps in West Bengal. They are so hungry for votes that they are conducting the SIR just two months before elections.”&nbsp;“The Election Commission is sending BJP-inclined officials from Delhi to oversee DMs’ work during SIR hearing,” news agency PTI quoted Banerjee as saying.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-to-seek-five-year-social-media-history-of-foreign-tourists-before-entry-1765384997336">US plans to seek five-year social media history of foreign tourists before entry</a><h2>‘Fight back using kitchen tools’: Mamata exhorts women</h2>&nbsp;The Bengal CM exhorted the women of the state to be prepared with kitchen tools if their names are deleted during the voter list review.“You will snatch the rights of mothers and sisters in the name of SIR? They will bring police from Delhi during the election and intimidate mothers and sisters. Mothers and sisters, if your names are struck off, you have the tools, right? The tools you use during cooking. You have strength, right? You won’t let it pass if your names are cut, right? The women will fight in the front, and the men will be behind them,” Banerjee said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-chairman-apologises-for-chaos-denies-charges-of-engineering-crisis-to-circumvent-rules-1765391153738">IndiGo chairman apologises for chaos, denies charges of ‘engineering’ crisis to circumvent rules</a>&nbsp;The second phase of SIR is being held across 12 states and UTs, including West Bengal, where the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led state government is opposing the move saying it is being done to benefit the BJP.Assembly elections in West Bengal are due in the first half of 2026.

Claiming that the SIR was being used as a political weapon prior to the 2026 Bengal assembly polls, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that the Election Commission is sending BJP-inclined officials for Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bengal.

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee alleged on Thursday that the Election Commission is sending BJP-inclined officials for Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bengal and warned that she will sit on a ‘dharna’ if even one eligible person’s name is struck off the voter list. Addressing a rally in at Krishnanagar, Mamata claimed that she has not filled her enumeration form till now, asking, “Do I need to prove my citizenship to party of rioters”. “Union home minister can do anything to label all Bengalis as Bangladeshis and send them to detention camps,” she alleged. Also Read: ‘Rajiv Gandhi brought EVMs, SIR done several times under Nehru, Indira also’: Shah slams Opposition ‘There will be no detention camps in West Bengal’ Claiming that the SIR was being used as a political weapon prior to the 2026 Bengal assembly polls, Banerjee said, “If even a single eligible voter’s name is struck off, I will sit on a dharna. There will be no detention camps in West Bengal. They are so hungry for votes that they are conducting the SIR just two months before elections.” “The Election Commission is sending BJP-inclined officials from Delhi to oversee DMs’ work during SIR hearing,” news agency PTI quoted Banerjee as saying. Also Read: US plans to seek five-year social media history of foreign tourists before entry ‘Fight back using kitchen tools’: Mamata exhorts women The Bengal CM exhorted the women of the state to be prepared with kitchen tools if their names are deleted during the voter list review. “You will snatch the rights of mothers and sisters in the name of SIR? They will bring police from Delhi during the election and intimidate mothers and sisters. Mothers and sisters, if your names are struck off, you have the tools, right? The tools you use during cooking. You have strength, right? You won’t let it pass if your names are cut, right? The women will fight in the front, and the men will be behind them,” Banerjee said. Also Read: IndiGo chairman apologises for chaos, denies charges of ‘engineering’ crisis to circumvent rules The second phase of SIR is being held across 12 states and UTs, including West Bengal, where the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led state government is opposing the move saying it is being done to benefit the BJP. Assembly elections in West Bengal are due in the first half of 2026.

Claiming that the SIR was being used as a political weapon prior to the 2026 Bengal assembly polls, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that the Election Commission is sending BJP-inclined officials for Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bengal.

‘Remove a single name from voter list, face dharna’: Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee warns on SIR

The owners of the Goa nightclub in which 25 people were killed after fire engulfed the club, have been arrested in Thailand. The Luthra brothers, Gaurav and Saurav Luthra will now be extradited to India for which the process has begun. The brothers were absconding after the fire incident at the Birch by Romeo Lane venue in Arpora, North Goa.&nbsp;Immediately after the arrest, the Luthra brother came out with their statement through their law firm which reads, “We, Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra, shall arrive in India on 11.12.2025 and submit ourselves to the jurisdiction of the police authorities and the judicial system of our country. We undertake to co-operate with the police authorities. We are law abiding citizens of our great country and we repose utmost faith and trust in the judicial system. We never intended to evade the process of law, as has been erroneously portrayed."&nbsp;"Our decision to return to our country is unrelated and uninfluenced by the legal remedies we have already availed or shall avail in future", the statement added.<h2>How the Luthras were nabbed in Thailand</h2>Thai officials said that Indian investigative agencies, in coordination with the Indian Embassy in Bangkok, had alerted Thai immigration and law enforcement after tracking the absconding brothers' movements to Thailand. Subsequently, a joint operation was conducted, leading to the suspects being located and detained at a hotel in Bangkok.&nbsp;According to the Goa Police, the Luthra brothers made the booking on the MakeMyTrip (MMT) platform at 1:17 am on December 7, a time when both the Goa Police and the Goa Fire Services were engaged in firefighting operations at the site. "Even as the Goa Police and Goa Fire Services were battling to douse the fire and rescue the people trapped inside, the Luthra brothers were preparing to flee the country," said officials.&nbsp;

The Luthra brothers, Gaurav and Saurav Luthra will now be extradited to India from Thailand for which the process has begun, said police officials.

The owners of the Goa nightclub in which 25 people were killed after fire engulfed the club, have been arrested in Thailand. The Luthra brothers, Gaurav and Saurav Luthra will now be extradited to India for which the process has begun. The brothers were absconding after the fire incident at the Birch by Romeo Lane venue in Arpora, North Goa. Immediately after the arrest, the Luthra brother came out with their statement through their law firm which reads, “We, Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra, shall arrive in India on 11.12.2025 and submit ourselves to the jurisdiction of the police authorities and the judicial system of our country. We undertake to co-operate with the police authorities. We are law abiding citizens of our great country and we repose utmost faith and trust in the judicial system. We never intended to evade the process of law, as has been erroneously portrayed." "Our decision to return to our country is unrelated and uninfluenced by the legal remedies we have already availed or shall avail in future", the statement added. How the Luthras were nabbed in Thailand Thai officials said that Indian investigative agencies, in coordination with the Indian Embassy in Bangkok, had alerted Thai immigration and law enforcement after tracking the absconding brothers' movements to Thailand. Subsequently, a joint operation was conducted, leading to the suspects being located and detained at a hotel in Bangkok. According to the Goa Police, the Luthra brothers made the booking on the MakeMyTrip (MMT) platform at 1:17 am on December 7, a time when both the Goa Police and the Goa Fire Services were engaged in firefighting operations at the site. "Even as the Goa Police and Goa Fire Services were battling to douse the fire and rescue the people trapped inside, the Luthra brothers were preparing to flee the country," said officials.

The Luthra brothers, Gaurav and Saurav Luthra will now be extradited to India from Thailand for which the process has begun, said police officials.

Goa nightclub fire: 'We never intended to evade law' say Luthra brothers after arrest

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