Some of the major Indian airports like Delhi and Mumbai are struggling to handle the holiday traffic. Many people have complained about missing flights due to long queues. Watch this to know more.

Chaos at Indian airports ahead of holiday season

Indian tech giant Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been accused of discriminatory hiring practices in the United States. The company is facing a class action lawsuit in the US over allegations of favouring Indian and South Asian candidates during its hiring practices.

Indian tech giant TCS sued in US for favouring Indian candidates in hiring practices

With an unprecedented increase in holiday season travel, New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport has reported chaotic scenes. Passengers have taken to the social media to complain about the long queues at security check, lack of proper assistance from staff, overcrowding and congestion.

WION Dispatch: Overcrowding at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport

United Kingdom's Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch will be in Delhi from today as the 6th round of FTA negotiations between the UK and India begin. Both sides are working on an ambitious trade pact that aims to ease customs duties on goods.

WION Dispatch: UK, India hold sixth round of free trade agreement talks

Border tensions between India and China are escalating again. There has been yet another faceoff in Indian and Chinese troops this time. The incident has been reported in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh in the Eastern part of India.

India, China border tensions escalate, faceoff in Arunachal's Tawang sector

India-China Clash: Border tensions escalate, faceoff leads to minor injuries to a few personnel

Have you heard about Comic-Con India? The comic book convention was searched in popularity in the 1990s globally, is immensely popular in India too. The first such convention was hosted in New Delhi in 2011 and has since expanded to other major cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. This year the event made a resounding comeback after two years of Covid induced closures.

Inside Comic Con India 2022: More than 10 years of Comic Con Delhi

"On December 9, China's PLA troops encroached upon LAC in Yangtse, Tawang sector and attempted to change status quo. This was tackled by our troops in a determined manner. Our troops bravely stopped PLA from encroaching upon our territory and forced them to go back to their post," Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in Rajya Sabha.

'PLA troops tried to change status quo in Tawang', says Rajnath Singh

World Business Watch | UK trade Secretary Kemi in Delhi to hold sixth round of FTA talks

Skoda Auto, part of Volkswagen, is considering withdrawing from China and will make a final decision next year, said CEO Klaus Zellmer. He also added that Skoda wants to focus more in India at the moment.

World Business Watch: Volkswagen's Skoda considers withdrawing from China

In the latest,&nbsp;Indian and Chinese troops clashed along the&nbsp;Line of Actual Control in Arunachal Pradesh&nbsp;last week resulting in some jawans suffering minor injuries, the Army said on Monday. In Kabul,&nbsp;security forces killed three militants who raided a hotel in Kabul’s Shar-e-Naw, housing Chinese diplomats and investors on Monday, causing an explosion and gunfire.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines for more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-indian-soldiers-injured-in-clashes-with-chinese-army-in-arunchal-pradesh-report-542383">Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="18e3fdf1-049d-45ed-9105-a57dbdb2e887" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/clipboard-16-1171057-1670855631.jpg" />

A number of Indian soldiers were engaged in a clash with Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA)&nbsp;at Yangtse, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh on December 9. Sources claimed that few Indian soldiers were injured in the altercation and as a follow-up to the incident, the Indian Commander in the area held a Flag Meeting with his counterpart to discuss the issue in accordance with structured mechanisms.&nbsp;

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The European Union is faced with a major corruption scandal following an investigation into alleged illicit lobbying activities by Qatar. A top MEP has also been suspended from her party due to the ongoing probe that has led to four people being detained.&nbsp;

Belgian police searched 16 homes in and around Brussels on Friday as part of the inquiry. According to Belgian media outlet Knack, investigators are looking into whether Qatar tried to influence positions in the Parliament in ways that “go beyond classic lobbying". "Roughly €600,000 ($631,000) in cash,” cellphones and computer equipment were seized in the raids.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-loud-blast-gunfire-heard-near-building-housing-chinese-nationals-542327">Kabul: Attackers killed after blast and gunfire near building housing Chinese nationals</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f253f84d-bbf7-42c0-b603-6783b70000b8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/592ec55b96cf3_0.jpg" />

Gunmen opened fire on Monday (December 12) near a guest house popular with Chinese business visitors in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul, an eye witness told the news agency AFP and also stated that a loud explosion was heard.&nbsp;

The media reports mentioned that the guest house is situated in the Shahr-e-Naw area, which is in the centre of Kabul.&nbsp;

The Taliban have confirmed that the attack has ended and that all three&nbsp;attackers were killed. The authorities also said that at least&nbsp;two people were injured as a result of jumping out of the window.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-pay-people-to-have-babies-in-an-attempt-to-boost-declining-birth-rate-542318">Japan to pay people to have babies in an attempt to boost declining birth rate</a>

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The Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare in Japan&nbsp;is hoping that the promise of some more money in the bank would encourage more people to add a kid to their family. Japan has been attempting to boost its low and decreasing birth rate for some time.

A 420,000 yen Childbirth and Childcare Lump-Sum Grant is now given to new parents in Japan following the birth of their child. Katsunobu Kato, the minister of health, labour, and welfare, wants to increase that amount to 500,000 yen. He met with the prime minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida, last week to discuss the proposal, which is anticipated to be approved and implemented for the 2023 fiscal year, which begins in the spring, as reported by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-orion-capsule-returns-to-earth-following-a-record-voyage-around-the-moon-542120">Japan</a>&nbsp;Today.&nbsp;

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China has been gradually easing certain coronavirus measures but the nation still continues its fight against the pandemic of misinformation related to COVID-19.&nbsp;

Despite the sudden spike in positive Covid cases in the past couple of weeks, Beijing loosened some of the restrictions that were part of the "zero-Covid" policy.&nbsp;

The stringent Covid curbs caused a massive impact on the economy, and frustrated people also protested against the regime, demanding the removal of measures.&nbsp;

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For the second time in less than a week, the Islamic Republic of Iran has executed a man linked to the nation's anti-hijab protests.

Majid Reza Rahnavard was executed by hanging in public for "waging a war against God".

As per an agency report quoting the Iranian judiciary's news agency Mizan, Rahnavard was "sentenced to death on November 29 for killing two security guards with a knife and wounding four others".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-putin-to-not-hold-annual-year-end-press-conference-says-kremlin-542349">Russia: Putin to not hold annual year-end press conference, says Kremlin</a>

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The annual press conference held by Russian President Vladimir Putin, which has been dominated by Moscow's incursion in Ukraine, will not take place this year, the Kremlin announced on Monday. Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Kremlin, said: "There won't be (a press&nbsp;conference) before the New Year. Putin, he continued, "frequently speaks to the press, even on international tours."

Peskov gave&nbsp;no explanation for the deviation from protocol. In the majority of the years since he came to power in 2000, Putin has conducted a press conference in December.&nbsp;

WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak in trouble amid a fresh wave of revolt within the conservative party? | WION Originals

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In the latest, Indian and Chinese troops clashed along the Line of Actual Control in Arunachal Pradesh last week resulting in some jawans suffering minor injuries, the Army said on Monday.

In the latest, Indian and Chinese troops clashed along the Line of Actual Control in Arunachal Pradesh last week resulting in some jawans suffering minor injuries, the Army said on Monday. In Kabul, security forces killed three militants who raided a hotel in Kabul’s Shar-e-Naw, housing Chinese diplomats and investors on Monday, causing an explosion and gunfire. Click on the headlines for more. Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides A number of Indian soldiers were engaged in a clash with Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at Yangtse, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh on December 9. Sources claimed that few Indian soldiers were injured in the altercation and as a follow-up to the incident, the Indian Commander in the area held a Flag Meeting with his counterpart to discuss the issue in accordance with structured mechanisms. EU calls corruption charges 'very very worrisome' as Greece freezes Eva Kaili's assets The European Union is faced with a major corruption scandal following an investigation into alleged illicit lobbying activities by Qatar. A top MEP has also been suspended from her party due to the ongoing probe that has led to four people being detained. Belgian police searched 16 homes in and around Brussels on Friday as part of the inquiry. According to Belgian media outlet Knack, investigators are looking into whether Qatar tried to influence positions in the Parliament in ways that “go beyond classic lobbying". "Roughly €600,000 ($631,000) in cash,” cellphones and computer equipment were seized in the raids. Kabul: Attackers killed after blast and gunfire near building housing Chinese nationals Gunmen opened fire on Monday (December 12) near a guest house popular with Chinese business visitors in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul, an eye witness told the news agency AFP and also stated that a loud explosion was heard. The media reports mentioned that the guest house is situated in the Shahr-e-Naw area, which is in the centre of Kabul. The Taliban have confirmed that the attack has ended and that all three attackers were killed. The authorities also said that at least two people were injured as a result of jumping out of the window. Japan to pay people to have babies in an attempt to boost declining birth rate The Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare in Japan is hoping that the promise of some more money in the bank would encourage more people to add a kid to their family. Japan has been attempting to boost its low and decreasing birth rate for some time. A 420,000 yen Childbirth and Childcare Lump-Sum Grant is now given to new parents in Japan following the birth of their child. Katsunobu Kato, the minister of health, labour, and welfare, wants to increase that amount to 500,000 yen. He met with the prime minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida, last week to discuss the proposal, which is anticipated to be approved and implemented for the 2023 fiscal year, which begins in the spring, as reported by Japan Today. Fighting Covid misinformation is China's new worry amid stockpiling and panic-buying of drugs China has been gradually easing certain coronavirus measures but the nation still continues its fight against the pandemic of misinformation related to COVID-19. Despite the sudden spike in positive Covid cases in the past couple of weeks, Beijing loosened some of the restrictions that were part of the "zero-Covid" policy. The stringent Covid curbs caused a massive impact on the economy, and frustrated people also protested against the regime, demanding the removal of measures. Iran executes second protester in less than a week; rights group claims 450 killed in protests For the second time in less than a week, the Islamic Republic of Iran has executed a man linked to the nation's anti-hijab protests. Majid Reza Rahnavard was executed by hanging in public for "waging a war against God". As per an agency report quoting the Iranian judiciary's news agency Mizan, Rahnavard was "sentenced to death on November 29 for killing two security guards with a knife and wounding four others". Russia: Putin to not hold annual year-end press conference, says Kremlin The annual press conference held by Russian President Vladimir Putin, which has been dominated by Moscow's incursion in Ukraine, will not take place this year, the Kremlin announced on Monday. Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Kremlin, said: "There won't be (a press conference) before the New Year. Putin, he continued, "frequently speaks to the press, even on international tours." Peskov gave no explanation for the deviation from protocol. In the majority of the years since he came to power in 2000, Putin has conducted a press conference in December. WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak in trouble amid a fresh wave of revolt within the conservative party? | WION Originals WION Fineprint | Saudi: All bets off if Iran gets Nukes

Top 10 world news: Face-off between Indian and Chinese troops along LAC; Shootings at Kabul hotel, & more

A number of Indian soldiers were engaged in a clash with Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA)&nbsp;at Yangtse, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh on December 9. Sources claimed that few Indian soldiers were injured in the altercation and as a follow-up to the incident, the Indian Commander in the area held a Flag Meeting with his counterpart to discuss the issue in accordance with structured mechanisms.&nbsp;

This was the first altercation between India and China in Arunachal Pradesh since 2020 when 20 Indian soldiers were killed as a result of violent clashes with Chinese forces in the Galwan Valley.&nbsp;

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According to The Hindu, there were a few Indian soldiers who suffered fractured limbs and they were taken to a hospital in Guwahati. While no official statement was issued regarding the incident, a source told the publication that more than 600 PLA soldiers were present when the clashes happened.&nbsp;

The clashes between the two forces are not uncommon in Arunachal Pradesh. An altercation took place near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) back in 2021 when Chinese soldiers were detained for a few hours by the Indian army after minor clashes took place near the Yangtse. Government sources told NDTV that such clashes have been taking place since 2006 mainly due to the "differing perceptions" of the border.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-loud-blast-gunfire-heard-near-building-housing-chinese-nationals-542327">Kabul: Attackers killed after blast near building housing Chinese nationals</a>

"In certain areas along the LAC in the Tawang Sector in Arunachal Pradesh there are areas of differing perception, wherein both sides patrol the area up to their claim lines. This has been the trend since 2006. On 09 December 2022, Chinese troops contacted the LAC in Tawang Sector which was contested by own troops in a firm and resolute manner," said the sources.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A number of Indian soldiers were engaged in a clash with Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at Yangtse, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh on December 9. Sources claimed that few Indian soldiers were injured in the altercation and as a follow-up to the incident, the Indian Commander in the area held a Flag Meeting with his counterpart to discuss the issue in accordance with structured mechanisms.

A number of Indian soldiers were engaged in a clash with Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at Yangtse, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh on December 9. Sources claimed that few Indian soldiers were injured in the altercation and as a follow-up to the incident, the Indian Commander in the area held a Flag Meeting with his counterpart to discuss the issue in accordance with structured mechanisms. This was the first altercation between India and China in Arunachal Pradesh since 2020 when 20 Indian soldiers were killed as a result of violent clashes with Chinese forces in the Galwan Valley. Also read | EU calls corruption charges 'very worrisome' as Greece freezes Kaili's assets According to The Hindu, there were a few Indian soldiers who suffered fractured limbs and they were taken to a hospital in Guwahati. While no official statement was issued regarding the incident, a source told the publication that more than 600 PLA soldiers were present when the clashes happened. The clashes between the two forces are not uncommon in Arunachal Pradesh. An altercation took place near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) back in 2021 when Chinese soldiers were detained for a few hours by the Indian army after minor clashes took place near the Yangtse. Government sources told NDTV that such clashes have been taking place since 2006 mainly due to the "differing perceptions" of the border. Also read | Kabul: Attackers killed after blast near building housing Chinese nationals "In certain areas along the LAC in the Tawang Sector in Arunachal Pradesh there are areas of differing perception, wherein both sides patrol the area up to their claim lines. This has been the trend since 2006. On 09 December 2022, Chinese troops contacted the LAC in Tawang Sector which was contested by own troops in a firm and resolute manner," said the sources.

Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Bhupendra Patel has taken the oath of Chief Minister of Gujarat for a second consecutive time in Gandhinagar on Monday. 
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Patel was administered the oath as the 18th Chief Minister by Governor Acharya Devvrat at the Helipad Ground near the new Secretariat in Gandhinagar at 2 pm.

The ceremony will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Ministers of BJP-led states. 
As per sources, about 20 cabinet ministers will also take oath on the same day, along with Bhupendra Patel and will take charge of their respective offices, the very next day.

BJP swept the Gujarat Assembly election winning a whopping 156 seats, which is the highest number of seats any party has won after the formation of the state in the year 1960. 
The BJP's seventh consecutive Assembly poll win in Gujarat is its biggest since the founding of this state in 1960.

Patel was sworn in as the 17th Chief Minister of Gujarat on September 13, 2021. He was first elected as BJP legislative party leader on September 12, 2021. He began his political journey as a member in Memnagar municipality and got elected as MLA from Ghatlodia constituency (Ahmedabad) in the 2017 Gujarat assembly elections.

Breaking his own record, Patel once again won from Ghatlodia constituency by a staggering margin of 1,91,000 votes in the 2022 election.

This overwhelming majority of the BJP in Gujarat depicts the absolute faith of the people in Patel's leadership.

Patel has vast experience in administration, having served as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and as a Corporator for Thaltej ward from 2010 to 2015. He began his political career in 1995 when he was appointed as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of Memnagar municipality.

He served the municipality for over a decade, becoming Chairman of the local body during 1999-2000 and 2004-2006.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-executes-second-protester-in-less-than-a-week-rights-group-claim-450-killed-in-protests-542169">Iran executes second protester in less than a week</a>

He also served as the Vice Chairman of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation School Board between 2008 and 2010. Later on, he served as a Corporator from Thaltej ward from 2010 to 2015. During this tenure, he served as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC).

In 2015, he was appointed as the chairman of the Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA). In 2017, Patel became a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the first time, by winning the election from Ghatlodia constituency with a wide margin of 1,17,000 votes.

Born on July 15, 1962, in Ahmedabad, Patel holds a Diploma in Civil Engineering from Government Polytechnic, Ahmedabad. He is a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He is also an active member of Pandit Deendayal Library managed by RSS at Memnagar.

The BJP created history in Gujarat with a landslide victory in the 2022 election and its 7th consecutive win. It is the party's largest win in Gujarat since the state's formation in 1960. It is an important win for the BJP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-trying-to-create-pretext-to-conduct-another-round-of-military-exercises-says-taiwan-foreign-minister-542255">China looking to create 'pretext' to conduct more military exercises: Taiwan</a>

Notably, there has always been a strong contest between the BJP and Congress in Gujarat, but this time around, Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) entry made this election an interesting one. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal tried hard to woo the people of Gujarat with the promises of providing free electricity and water, Rs 1,000 per month for women and a loan waiver for farmers. On the other hand, Congress also tried to attract voters with all kinds of sops.

The BJP bagged 156 seats in the 182-member Assembly, its highest-ever poll tally in the state. The opposition Congress could manage only 17 seats while Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party had to be content with just 5 seats.

Three seats went to Independent candidates while the Samajwadi Party (SP) won a lone seat in the state.

The BJP, which has won its seventh straight election in Gujarat, not only improved its own best record of 127 seats in 2002-- the first election with Narendra Modi as Chief Minister -- but the Congress' tally of 149 seats in 1985.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Bhupendra Patel has taken the oath of Chief Minister of Gujarat for a second consecutive time in Gandhinagar on Monday. Advertisement Patel was administered the oath as the 18th Chief Minister by Governor Acharya Devvrat at the Helipad Ground near the new Secretariat in Gandhinagar at 2 pm.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Bhupendra Patel has taken the oath of Chief Minister of Gujarat for a second consecutive time in Gandhinagar on Monday. Advertisement Patel was administered the oath as the 18th Chief Minister by Governor Acharya Devvrat at the Helipad Ground near the new Secretariat in Gandhinagar at 2 pm. The ceremony will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Ministers of BJP-led states. As per sources, about 20 cabinet ministers will also take oath on the same day, along with Bhupendra Patel and will take charge of their respective offices, the very next day. BJP swept the Gujarat Assembly election winning a whopping 156 seats, which is the highest number of seats any party has won after the formation of the state in the year 1960. The BJP's seventh consecutive Assembly poll win in Gujarat is its biggest since the founding of this state in 1960. Patel was sworn in as the 17th Chief Minister of Gujarat on September 13, 2021. He was first elected as BJP legislative party leader on September 12, 2021. He began his political journey as a member in Memnagar municipality and got elected as MLA from Ghatlodia constituency (Ahmedabad) in the 2017 Gujarat assembly elections. Breaking his own record, Patel once again won from Ghatlodia constituency by a staggering margin of 1,91,000 votes in the 2022 election. This overwhelming majority of the BJP in Gujarat depicts the absolute faith of the people in Patel's leadership. Patel has vast experience in administration, having served as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and as a Corporator for Thaltej ward from 2010 to 2015. He began his political career in 1995 when he was appointed as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of Memnagar municipality. He served the municipality for over a decade, becoming Chairman of the local body during 1999-2000 and 2004-2006. Also read | Iran executes second protester in less than a week He also served as the Vice Chairman of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation School Board between 2008 and 2010. Later on, he served as a Corporator from Thaltej ward from 2010 to 2015. During this tenure, he served as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). In 2015, he was appointed as the chairman of the Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA). In 2017, Patel became a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the first time, by winning the election from Ghatlodia constituency with a wide margin of 1,17,000 votes. Born on July 15, 1962, in Ahmedabad, Patel holds a Diploma in Civil Engineering from Government Polytechnic, Ahmedabad. He is a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He is also an active member of Pandit Deendayal Library managed by RSS at Memnagar. The BJP created history in Gujarat with a landslide victory in the 2022 election and its 7th consecutive win. It is the party's largest win in Gujarat since the state's formation in 1960. It is an important win for the BJP. Also read | China looking to create 'pretext' to conduct more military exercises: Taiwan Notably, there has always been a strong contest between the BJP and Congress in Gujarat, but this time around, Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) entry made this election an interesting one. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal tried hard to woo the people of Gujarat with the promises of providing free electricity and water, Rs 1,000 per month for women and a loan waiver for farmers. On the other hand, Congress also tried to attract voters with all kinds of sops. The BJP bagged 156 seats in the 182-member Assembly, its highest-ever poll tally in the state. The opposition Congress could manage only 17 seats while Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party had to be content with just 5 seats. Three seats went to Independent candidates while the Samajwadi Party (SP) won a lone seat in the state. The BJP, which has won its seventh straight election in Gujarat, not only improved its own best record of 127 seats in 2002-- the first election with Narendra Modi as Chief Minister -- but the Congress' tally of 149 seats in 1985.

India: Bhupendra Patel takes oath as Gujarat chief minister

UK trade secretary arrives in Delhi to discuss Free Trade Agreement

Will student visa find a mention in the FTA talks?

In India, four people were killed in the Southern state of Tamil Nadu after Cyclone Mandous hit the Indian coast this Friday. The cyclone left behind a trail of destruction damaging about 200 homes. Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister MK Stalin inspected the cyclone-affected area and spoke to the fishermen community.

India: Cyclone Mandous hits Tamil Nadu, 4 killed

Why is Indian Prime Minister not going to Moscow for his annual summit with Putin? The Western media is pointing at Putin's nuclear remarks. Sources tell us it's a scheduling issue. Molly Gambhir has the details.

Gravitas: Why India's PM Modi is not meeting Putin for their annual summit

The United States has blacklisted six Pakistani firms. India and US have warned about nuclear activities. These firms' access to software and tech will now be restricted.

The Pakistani 'nuclear underworld': US blacklists six Pakistani firms

The Congress party has returned to power in&nbsp;Himachal Pradesh&nbsp;after securing 40 seats in the 68-member Legislative Assembly. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the other hand&nbsp;managed to secure only 25 seats and many of its ministers lost their seats, though Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur won from Seraj for the sixth time.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge congratulated the people of Himachal Pradesh and party workers for the massive&nbsp;electoral success. “I thank the people and voters of Himachal Pradesh for the victory. I also thank all the leaders and in-charge secretaries who worked hard for the success of the party,”&nbsp;Kharge told reporters.&nbsp;

He added that&nbsp;Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's campaign in the hill state&nbsp;and Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra helped the party inch closer to this victory.&nbsp;

Separately, three independent candidates also emerged victorious. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) which had contested on 67 seats, failed to secure even a single seat.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gujarat-himachal-election-results-counting-begins-in-high-stakes-polls-541068">As it happned: PM Modi's magic delivers in Gujarat, Congress all set to form govt in Himachal Pradesh</a>

CM Thakur accepted the defeat and submitted his resignation to the governor, who accepted it and then dissolved the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

The Indian state Himachal Pradesh registered an approximate&nbsp;polling percentage of 75.6 per cent, as per the&nbsp;Election Commission of India (ECI).

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Congress party has returned to power in Himachal Pradesh after securing 40 seats in the 68-member Legislative Assembly. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the other hand managed to secure only 25 seats and many of its ministers lost their seats, though Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur won from Seraj for the sixth time.

The Congress party has returned to power in Himachal Pradesh after securing 40 seats in the 68-member Legislative Assembly. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the other hand managed to secure only 25 seats and many of its ministers lost their seats, though Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur won from Seraj for the sixth time. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge congratulated the people of Himachal Pradesh and party workers for the massive electoral success. “I thank the people and voters of Himachal Pradesh for the victory. I also thank all the leaders and in-charge secretaries who worked hard for the success of the party,” Kharge told reporters. He added that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's campaign in the hill state and Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra helped the party inch closer to this victory. Separately, three independent candidates also emerged victorious. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) which had contested on 67 seats, failed to secure even a single seat. Also read | As it happned: PM Modi's magic delivers in Gujarat, Congress all set to form govt in Himachal Pradesh CM Thakur accepted the defeat and submitted his resignation to the governor, who accepted it and then dissolved the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on the advice of the Council of Ministers. The Indian state Himachal Pradesh registered an approximate polling percentage of 75.6 per cent, as per the Election Commission of India (ECI). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Himachal Pradesh election result: Congress wins assembly polls; CM Jai Ram Thakur accepts defeat

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan have backed the use&nbsp;of the India-built Chabahar port in Iran and said that it is ready to provide all the necessary "facilities".

A statement issued by the Taliban's foreign ministry "welcomed" the proposal to include&nbsp;Chabahar port in the North-South International Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow and passes via Iran and Azerbaijan. The statement highlighted that the regime stands "ready to provide all necessary protection and facilities in this regard."

India is developing the first phase of Shahid Behesti Port in Chabahar and has invested $85 million in the project as it provides larger connectivity across the region, especially to landlocked Central Asia. It has also supplied six Mobile Habour Cranes— with 140 tons and four 100 tons capacities—and other equipment worth $25 million.

The port has been used in the past for sending humanitarian consignments to Afghanistan. In 2020, India utilised the Chabahar port to ship 75,000 MTs of wheat as humanitarian food assistance to Afghanistan.

Since December 2018, when Indian company India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) took over the operations, the port has handled 215 vessels and 4 million tons of bulk and general cargo.

The Taliban’s comment on Chabahar port comes as it has been keen on Indian investment and revival of Indian infrastructure, and development projects in the country.

Taliban had also called for Indian investment in building a new Kabul city during a meeting between Afghanistan's minister for Urban Development and Housing (MUDH) Hamdullah Nomani and the head of India's technical team in the country, Bharat Kumar.

The Taliban’s statement came after the India-Central Asia National security advisors meet in Delhi this week, with a key focus on the situation in Afghanistan and connectivity.

The statement welcomed the meet and appreciated the joint communique of the meeting that expressed "support for a stable, peaceful, integrated and secure Afghanistan and the principle of non-interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs.

The Taliban assured that it "remains committed and will not allow anyone to pose a threat to the region and the world from Afghanistan’s soil or to interfere in other’s internal affairs".

There have been concerns over Afghanistan becoming a safe haven for international terror groups, and India is concerned that Pakistan-based UN-designated terror groups like JeM, LeT may find space in the war-ravaged country.

Delhi hosted the first ever India- Central Asia National Security Advisors (NSAs) meet on Tuesday. The meeting was one of the key outcomes of the India-Central Asia virtual summit that took place in January.

Taliban hoped that it will be invited to the next meeting which will take place in May 2023 in Kazakhstan where its presence "would help establish cooperation and confidence in security, prevention of human and drug trafficking, delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan, and particularly in the implementation of basic infrastructure projects."

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The Taliban regime in Afghanistan have backed the use of the India-built Chabahar port in Iran and said that it is ready to provide all the necessary "facilities".

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan have backed the use of the India-built Chabahar port in Iran and said that it is ready to provide all the necessary "facilities". A statement issued by the Taliban's foreign ministry "welcomed" the proposal to include Chabahar port in the North-South International Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow and passes via Iran and Azerbaijan. The statement highlighted that the regime stands "ready to provide all necessary protection and facilities in this regard." India is developing the first phase of Shahid Behesti Port in Chabahar and has invested $85 million in the project as it provides larger connectivity across the region, especially to landlocked Central Asia. It has also supplied six Mobile Habour Cranes— with 140 tons and four 100 tons capacities—and other equipment worth $25 million. The port has been used in the past for sending humanitarian consignments to Afghanistan. In 2020, India utilised the Chabahar port to ship 75,000 MTs of wheat as humanitarian food assistance to Afghanistan. Since December 2018, when Indian company India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) took over the operations, the port has handled 215 vessels and 4 million tons of bulk and general cargo. The Taliban’s comment on Chabahar port comes as it has been keen on Indian investment and revival of Indian infrastructure, and development projects in the country. Taliban had also called for Indian investment in building a new Kabul city during a meeting between Afghanistan's minister for Urban Development and Housing (MUDH) Hamdullah Nomani and the head of India's technical team in the country, Bharat Kumar. The Taliban’s statement came after the India-Central Asia National security advisors meet in Delhi this week, with a key focus on the situation in Afghanistan and connectivity. The statement welcomed the meet and appreciated the joint communique of the meeting that expressed "support for a stable, peaceful, integrated and secure Afghanistan and the principle of non-interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs. The Taliban assured that it "remains committed and will not allow anyone to pose a threat to the region and the world from Afghanistan’s soil or to interfere in other’s internal affairs". There have been concerns over Afghanistan becoming a safe haven for international terror groups, and India is concerned that Pakistan-based UN-designated terror groups like JeM, LeT may find space in the war-ravaged country. Delhi hosted the first ever India- Central Asia National Security Advisors (NSAs) meet on Tuesday. The meeting was one of the key outcomes of the India-Central Asia virtual summit that took place in January. Taliban hoped that it will be invited to the next meeting which will take place in May 2023 in Kazakhstan where its presence "would help establish cooperation and confidence in security, prevention of human and drug trafficking, delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan, and particularly in the implementation of basic infrastructure projects." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Taliban back usage of India-built Chabahar port, say ‘ready to provide facilities

A new axis is in the making between China, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Riyadh, Beijing have signed 34 agreements. Has India become collateral damage? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: A new axis between China, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan

The World Bank report said India is experiencing higher temperatures that arrive earlier and stay far longer. The report warned that rising heat across India can jeopardise economic productivity.

WION Climate Tracker | World Bank: India could experience heat waves beyond human survival limits

Iran has halted the imports of tea and basmati rice from India. It has stopped signing contracts for fresh imports. Why? Is it because of the ongoing anti-hijab protests or is there something else? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Iran halts imports of rice & tea from India

A massive rescue operation in&nbsp;India is underway to save Tanmay Sahu, an eight-year-old boy who has been stuck in a borewell for over a day.&nbsp;The incident took place in the central state of&nbsp;Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday (Dec 06) around 5 pm&nbsp;when Tanmay fell into the narrow well while playing with his&nbsp;friends.&nbsp; 
 
As per the rescue officials, the child is stuck at nearly 55 feet in the 400-feet deep well. The officials are pumping oxygen to the child but due to layers of mud, it's difficult for them to assess his&nbsp;condition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/google-told-to-stop-online-betting-ads-in-india-540869">Also read |&nbsp;India tells Google to stop direct or surrogate online advertisements from betting platforms</a>

The district magistrate told ANI news agency that it might take a few "more hours for the rescue." He said,&nbsp;"It is taking longer than expected because there are stones [inside the well]."

Currently, the state's disaster response is helping in the rescue efforts.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;machines have so far dug a nearly 25 feet-deep parallel tunnel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latvian-woman-murder-case-2018-two-indian-men-given-life-imprisonment-by-kerala-court-540572">Also read |&nbsp;Latvian woman murder case 2018: Two Indian men given life imprisonment by Kerala court</a>

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan took to Twitter to share&nbsp;his concern for the child and said that he is keeping constant touch with the local administration. He also said that he is praying for the child's well-being.

Several children in India have died due to suffocation after getting stuck in borewells.

These wells were set up to extract water for the irrigation process due to water shortages in the regions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A massive rescue operation in India is underway to save Tanmay Sahu, an eight-year-old boy who has been stuck in a borewell for over a day. The incident took place in the central state of Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday (Dec 06) around 5 pm when Tanmay fell into the narrow well while playing with his friends.

A massive rescue operation in India is underway to save Tanmay Sahu, an eight-year-old boy who has been stuck in a borewell for over a day. The incident took place in the central state of Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday (Dec 06) around 5 pm when Tanmay fell into the narrow well while playing with his friends. As per the rescue officials, the child is stuck at nearly 55 feet in the 400-feet deep well. The officials are pumping oxygen to the child but due to layers of mud, it's difficult for them to assess his condition. Also read | India tells Google to stop direct or surrogate online advertisements from betting platforms The district magistrate told ANI news agency that it might take a few "more hours for the rescue." He said, "It is taking longer than expected because there are stones [inside the well]." Currently, the state's disaster response is helping in the rescue efforts. The machines have so far dug a nearly 25 feet-deep parallel tunnel. Also read | Latvian woman murder case 2018: Two Indian men given life imprisonment by Kerala court Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan took to Twitter to share his concern for the child and said that he is keeping constant touch with the local administration. He also said that he is praying for the child's well-being. Several children in India have died due to suffocation after getting stuck in borewells. These wells were set up to extract water for the irrigation process due to water shortages in the regions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Rescue efforts continue for 8-year-old boy in Madhya Pradesh stuck in borewell

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