Gurugram
Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) is on track to mark its place in the electric vehicle space with the rollout of its eBorn electric SUV, the e VITARA. This production ready model would be showcased by the company at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. It is being designed as a global product and will be manufactured in India for export to international markets where it was recently unveiled by Suzuki Motor Corporation in Milan, Italy.  
The e VITARA was described as a landmark achievement for the company's commitment to sustainability and innovation by Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing &amp; Sales at MSIL. "We are committed to our focus on sustainable mobility and technological innovation and the e VITARA is a testament to this," Banerjee said. According to him, Maruti Suzuki has been focused on fusing the best of the cutting edge of electric technology and a customer first philosophy to provide users with a transformative EV experience.  
Maruti Suzuki understands that a major impediment to EV adoption is still the lack of charging infrastructure and is working towards a complete ecosystem for EV, which will address the needs for e VITARA. The lack of accessible charging is a critical barrier to EV adoption, Banerjee stressed. Maruti Suzuki is committed to introducing reliable home charging solutions as well as a nationwide fast charging network at Maruti Suzuki dealerships and service points. We want EVs to be accessible, easy to use, and appealing to a wider variety of people."  
The e VITARA is positioned as an 'Emotional Versatile Cruiser' leveraging the latest technology with modern design features to address the requirements of today's modern consumers. It offers next generation EV performance catering to the developing market dynamics and customer needs in India.  
As India’s EV sector gains momentum, the launch of the e VITARA reflects Maruti Suzuki’s strategic intent to lead this transition by making electric mobility more accessible and practical for Indian consumers. All eyes are now on Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, where Maruti Suzuki is expected to unveil this bold new offering.

The production-ready Maruti Suzuki e VITARA will be manufactured in India for export to international markets.

 



Gurugram Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) is on track to mark its place in the electric vehicle space with the rollout of its eBorn electric SUV, the e VITARA. This production ready model would be showcased by the company at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. It is being designed as a global product and will be manufactured in India for export to international markets where it was recently unveiled by Suzuki Motor Corporation in Milan, Italy. The e VITARA was described as a landmark achievement for the company's commitment to sustainability and innovation by Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales at MSIL. "We are committed to our focus on sustainable mobility and technological innovation and the e VITARA is a testament to this," Banerjee said. According to him, Maruti Suzuki has been focused on fusing the best of the cutting edge of electric technology and a customer first philosophy to provide users with a transformative EV experience. Maruti Suzuki understands that a major impediment to EV adoption is still the lack of charging infrastructure and is working towards a complete ecosystem for EV, which will address the needs for e VITARA. The lack of accessible charging is a critical barrier to EV adoption, Banerjee stressed. Maruti Suzuki is committed to introducing reliable home charging solutions as well as a nationwide fast charging network at Maruti Suzuki dealerships and service points. We want EVs to be accessible, easy to use, and appealing to a wider variety of people." The e VITARA is positioned as an 'Emotional Versatile Cruiser' leveraging the latest technology with modern design features to address the requirements of today's modern consumers. It offers next generation EV performance catering to the developing market dynamics and customer needs in India. As India’s EV sector gains momentum, the launch of the e VITARA reflects Maruti Suzuki’s strategic intent to lead this transition by making electric mobility more accessible and practical for Indian consumers. All eyes are now on Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, where Maruti Suzuki is expected to unveil this bold new offering.

Maruti Suzuki to showcase its first all-electric SUV, e VITARA, at Auto Expo 2025

CALIFORNIA
New vehicle sales in the United States are projected to increase by 7.3% in December, according to a joint report released Thursday by industry consultants J.D. Power and GlobalData. The growth comes despite ongoing market pressures, supported by enhanced discounting from manufacturers and dealerships.
The December sales forecast anticipates total new vehicle sales reaching 1,520,000 units, marking an increase from the previous year despite one fewer selling day in the month. The seasonally adjusted annualised rate for total new vehicle sales is expected to reach 17.2 million units, representing an increase of 1.1 million units from the prior period.
Thomas King, president of the data and analytics division at J.D. Power, noted that whilst per-unit vehicle profits are declining, consumer demand has remained steady. This resilience has been supported by increased inventory availability and enhanced leasing activity, contributing to robust year-end performance.
However, the projected 7.3% increase represents a significant moderation from the 13% growth forecast made by the consultants in December of the previous year, indicating a cooling in market momentum.
The electric vehicle sector faces particular challenges, with consumer interest showing signs of decline. Current data indicates that only 25% of new car buyers are considering an electric vehicle for their next purchase, marking a 2% decrease from the previous year. This shifting consumer sentiment has affected major electric vehicle manufacturers, including Tesla, which has experienced a reduction in its share of electric vehicle sales in 2024.
Looking ahead to 2025, S&amp;P Global Mobility projects US auto sales will reach 16.18 million units, representing a modest 1.2% increase from the current year. Chris Hopson, manager of North American light vehicle sales forecasting at S&amp;P Global Mobility, cautioned that the affordability challenges that constrained automotive demand throughout 2024 are likely to persist into 2025.
The current market dynamics reflect a complex interplay of factors affecting the automotive sector. Whilst sales continue to grow, the pace of expansion has moderated, influenced by high interest rates and ongoing affordability concerns. The declining interest in electric vehicles adds another layer of complexity to the market outlook, potentially affecting manufacturer strategies and investment decisions in the coming year.
The automotive industry's ability to maintain sales growth whilst managing declining per-unit profits highlights the delicate balance between volume and profitability in the current economic environment. The continued use of discounting strategies by manufacturers and dealers suggests ongoing efforts to stimulate demand despite market headwinds.

Industry report indicates growth in US vehicle sales for December, though at a slower pace than the previous year amid affordability concerns.

 



CALIFORNIA New vehicle sales in the United States are projected to increase by 7.3% in December, according to a joint report released Thursday by industry consultants J.D. Power and GlobalData. The growth comes despite ongoing market pressures, supported by enhanced discounting from manufacturers and dealerships. The December sales forecast anticipates total new vehicle sales reaching 1,520,000 units, marking an increase from the previous year despite one fewer selling day in the month. The seasonally adjusted annualised rate for total new vehicle sales is expected to reach 17.2 million units, representing an increase of 1.1 million units from the prior period. Thomas King, president of the data and analytics division at J.D. Power, noted that whilst per-unit vehicle profits are declining, consumer demand has remained steady. This resilience has been supported by increased inventory availability and enhanced leasing activity, contributing to robust year-end performance. However, the projected 7.3% increase represents a significant moderation from the 13% growth forecast made by the consultants in December of the previous year, indicating a cooling in market momentum. The electric vehicle sector faces particular challenges, with consumer interest showing signs of decline. Current data indicates that only 25% of new car buyers are considering an electric vehicle for their next purchase, marking a 2% decrease from the previous year. This shifting consumer sentiment has affected major electric vehicle manufacturers, including Tesla, which has experienced a reduction in its share of electric vehicle sales in 2024. Looking ahead to 2025, S&P Global Mobility projects US auto sales will reach 16.18 million units, representing a modest 1.2% increase from the current year. Chris Hopson, manager of North American light vehicle sales forecasting at S&P Global Mobility, cautioned that the affordability challenges that constrained automotive demand throughout 2024 are likely to persist into 2025. The current market dynamics reflect a complex interplay of factors affecting the automotive sector. Whilst sales continue to grow, the pace of expansion has moderated, influenced by high interest rates and ongoing affordability concerns. The declining interest in electric vehicles adds another layer of complexity to the market outlook, potentially affecting manufacturer strategies and investment decisions in the coming year. The automotive industry's ability to maintain sales growth whilst managing declining per-unit profits highlights the delicate balance between volume and profitability in the current economic environment. The continued use of discounting strategies by manufacturers and dealers suggests ongoing efforts to stimulate demand despite market headwinds.

US new vehicle sales are expected to rise 7.3% in December

New Delhi
India and Kuwait are set to firm up ties with the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a first by an Indian prime minister to the West Asian country in 43 years. The last visit to Kuwait was by the then Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1981.
Announcing the visit, India's Ministry of External Affairs earlier this week said, "India and Kuwait share traditionally close and friendly relations which are rooted in history and have been underpinned by economic and strong people to people linkages...The visit will provide an opportunity to further strengthen the multifaceted ties between India and Kuwait."
During the visit on 21st-2nd December, Modi will hold discussions with the leadership of Kuwait. 
Several pillars to the ties, from trade to history to diaspora, will be on focus. 
<h2>History of India-Kuwait relations</h2>
India and Kuwait formally established ties in 1961, but the relationship goes back in history. Pre-oil Kuwait had significant maritime trade with India which was the backbone of its economy.
Wooden dhows from Kuwait used to come to India, carrying with it pearls. Arabian horses and pearls were traded for wood, cereals, clothes and spices. The Indian rupee remained legal tender in Kuwait until 1961.
<h2>Political ties between India and Kuwait </h2>
Initially, after establishment of ties in 1961, Delhi was represented by a Trade Commissioner. From the Indian side, Vice President Dr Zakir Husain (1965), Prime Minister Indira Gandhi (1981) and Vice President Hamid Ansari (2009) visited the country.
From Kuwait, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah (1964), Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (1980) and again in 1983 (for the NAM Summit); Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (2006); Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah (2013) visited India.
The last high-level visit from either side was that of the Prime Minister of Kuwait to India in 2013.
PM Modi and Kuwait’s Crown Prince met on the sidelines of UNGA in September 2024.
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar travelled to Kuwait on 18 August 2024, while Kuwait FM Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya travelled to India earlier this month.
Watch:India: PM Modi Hits Back At Congress Over 'Emergency' In Parliament
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During Yahya's visit, he called on Modi as well, and it was during this visit that the Indian PM was invited to the country.
Both foreign ministers also met on the sidelines of first India-GCC Strategic Dialogue Committee meeting in Riyadh on 9 September 2024.
<h2>Trade ties between India and Kuwait</h2>
Kuwait is among India’s top trading partners, with bilateral trade valued at USD 10.47 billion in FY 2023-24.
Kuwait is India’s 6th largest crude supplier, meeting 3 per cent of the country’s energy needs.
Indian exports to Kuwait reached USD 2 billion for the first time, while investments by the Kuwait Investment Authority in India exceed USD 10 billion.
<h2>Indian diaspora in Kuwait</h2>
Indians form the largest expatriate community in Kuwait, numbering around 1 million and  present across various sectors.
The Indian community is the ‘living bridge’ between the two countries. Kuwait's national radio in April this year launched a weekly Hindi radio programme. A Hindi Chair at the Gulf University for Science and Technology was established in September of this year.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjYnazV6LWKAxUkZ_UHHQ_BBRIQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-to-visit-kuwait-from-dec-21-22-marking-first-indian-pm-trip-to-west-asian-nation-in-43-years-785106" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-to-visit-kuwait-from-dec-21-22-marking-first-indian-pm-trip-to-west-asian-nation-in-43-years-785106&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjYnazV6LWKAxUkZ_UHHQ_BBRIQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Modi to visit Kuwait from Dec 21-22, marking first trip of Indian PM to nation in 43 years</a>
Over 200 Indian associations actively organise socio-cultural and humanitarian initiatives.
There are 26 CBSE-affiliated schools serving over 60,000 students, predominantly of Indian origin.
The two nations signed an MoU on recruitment of domestic workers in 2021, which would streamline their recruitment process and provide them with legal protections.
Cultural events like ‘Splendors of India’ and ‘Namaste Kuwait’ (2022), ‘Festival of India’ (2023) have taken place in the country. 
During the visit, PM Modi will be addressing the diaspora.
<h2>Energy ties between India and Kuwait</h2>
Kuwait is one of India's top suppliers of crude oil and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). During FY 2023-24, Kuwait was the 9th largest oil supplier with about 3 per cent of India’s total energy needs.
The two sides have a Joint Working Group on Hydrocarbons, a mechanism to ensure a stable energy partnership.
There's an ongoing interest from Kuwait to invest in India's energy sector and Strategic Petroleum Reserves.
<h2>Geopolitical impact</h2>
The upcoming visit of PM Modi to Kuwait will be closely watched since it comes at a time when West Asia has been in turmoil.
India is expected to restate its policy on Palestine. Delhi has supported a negotiated two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine issue. This refers to  the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel.
Modi's visit is also the first vby an Indian PM to the country since Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in 1990. The stance of Delhi back then had irked Kuwait.
<h2>PM Modi's visit to West Asia since 2014</h2>
PM Modi has already travelled to several West Asian countries since 2014, when he first took charge.
These include UAE to which he travelled the maximum number of times in the region: 2015, 2018, 2019, 2022 and 2024.
Other places he has travelled in the region include, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Jordan, Israel and Palestinian territories.
Several of these have conferred PM Modi their highest awards, which include Saudi Arabia in 2016, UAE in 2019 and Palestine in 2018.

India and Kuwait formally established ties in 1961, but the relationship goes back in history. Pre-oil Kuwait had significant maritime trade with India which was the backbone of its economy



New Delhi India and Kuwait are set to firm up ties with the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a first by an Indian prime minister to the West Asian country in 43 years. The last visit to Kuwait was by the then Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1981. Announcing the visit, India's Ministry of External Affairs earlier this week said, "India and Kuwait share traditionally close and friendly relations which are rooted in history and have been underpinned by economic and strong people to people linkages...The visit will provide an opportunity to further strengthen the multifaceted ties between India and Kuwait." During the visit on 21st-2nd December, Modi will hold discussions with the leadership of Kuwait. Several pillars to the ties, from trade to history to diaspora, will be on focus. History of India-Kuwait relations India and Kuwait formally established ties in 1961, but the relationship goes back in history. Pre-oil Kuwait had significant maritime trade with India which was the backbone of its economy. Wooden dhows from Kuwait used to come to India, carrying with it pearls. Arabian horses and pearls were traded for wood, cereals, clothes and spices. The Indian rupee remained legal tender in Kuwait until 1961. Political ties between India and Kuwait Initially, after establishment of ties in 1961, Delhi was represented by a Trade Commissioner. From the Indian side, Vice President Dr Zakir Husain (1965), Prime Minister Indira Gandhi (1981) and Vice President Hamid Ansari (2009) visited the country. From Kuwait, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah (1964), Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (1980) and again in 1983 (for the NAM Summit); Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (2006); Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah (2013) visited India. The last high-level visit from either side was that of the Prime Minister of Kuwait to India in 2013. PM Modi and Kuwait’s Crown Prince met on the sidelines of UNGA in September 2024. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar travelled to Kuwait on 18 August 2024, while Kuwait FM Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya travelled to India earlier this month. Watch:India: PM Modi Hits Back At Congress Over 'Emergency' In Parliament × During Yahya's visit, he called on Modi as well, and it was during this visit that the Indian PM was invited to the country. Both foreign ministers also met on the sidelines of first India-GCC Strategic Dialogue Committee meeting in Riyadh on 9 September 2024. Trade ties between India and Kuwait Kuwait is among India’s top trading partners, with bilateral trade valued at USD 10.47 billion in FY 2023-24. Kuwait is India’s 6th largest crude supplier, meeting 3 per cent of the country’s energy needs. Indian exports to Kuwait reached USD 2 billion for the first time, while investments by the Kuwait Investment Authority in India exceed USD 10 billion. Indian diaspora in Kuwait Indians form the largest expatriate community in Kuwait, numbering around 1 million and present across various sectors. The Indian community is the ‘living bridge’ between the two countries. Kuwait's national radio in April this year launched a weekly Hindi radio programme. A Hindi Chair at the Gulf University for Science and Technology was established in September of this year. Also read: Modi to visit Kuwait from Dec 21-22, marking first trip of Indian PM to nation in 43 years Over 200 Indian associations actively organise socio-cultural and humanitarian initiatives. There are 26 CBSE-affiliated schools serving over 60,000 students, predominantly of Indian origin. The two nations signed an MoU on recruitment of domestic workers in 2021, which would streamline their recruitment process and provide them with legal protections. Cultural events like ‘Splendors of India’ and ‘Namaste Kuwait’ (2022), ‘Festival of India’ (2023) have taken place in the country. During the visit, PM Modi will be addressing the diaspora. Energy ties between India and Kuwait Kuwait is one of India's top suppliers of crude oil and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). During FY 2023-24, Kuwait was the 9th largest oil supplier with about 3 per cent of India’s total energy needs. The two sides have a Joint Working Group on Hydrocarbons, a mechanism to ensure a stable energy partnership. There's an ongoing interest from Kuwait to invest in India's energy sector and Strategic Petroleum Reserves. Geopolitical impact The upcoming visit of PM Modi to Kuwait will be closely watched since it comes at a time when West Asia has been in turmoil. India is expected to restate its policy on Palestine. Delhi has supported a negotiated two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine issue. This refers to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel. Modi's visit is also the first vby an Indian PM to the country since Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in 1990. The stance of Delhi back then had irked Kuwait. PM Modi's visit to West Asia since 2014 PM Modi has already travelled to several West Asian countries since 2014, when he first took charge. These include UAE to which he travelled the maximum number of times in the region: 2015, 2018, 2019, 2022 and 2024. Other places he has travelled in the region include, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Jordan, Israel and Palestinian territories. Several of these have conferred PM Modi their highest awards, which include Saudi Arabia in 2016, UAE in 2019 and Palestine in 2018.

Explainer: India, Kuwait to boost ties with PM Modi's visit - Why it is significant

BEIJING
Former self-driving truck developer TuSimple Holdings has announced its transformation into CreateAI, marking a strategic departure from autonomous vehicles to focus on AI gaming technology. The announcement, made on Thursday, signals the company's bid to revitalise its business following a period of significant challenges.
Chief Executive Officer Cheng Lu characterised the transition to gaming and animation technology as a natural progression of the company's existing capabilities. This strategic shift follows two years of considerable difficulties and increased regulatory scrutiny.
TuSimple, established in 2015, initially attracted substantial investment from major industry players, including Chinese technology firm Sina Corp and global corporations such as Nvidia, Volkswagen and UPS. However, the company's trajectory changed dramatically in 2022 when American regulators initiated investigations into its Chinese connections, leading to significant internal disputes.
The company recently announced its intention to withdraw from the Nasdaq stock exchange, a decision coming less than three years after its successful initial public offering in April 2021, which raised £1.1 billion. This delisting represents a significant reversal for the formerly promising startup.
Currently, TuSimple faces substantial legal challenges, including a significant lawsuit from its former CEO, Xiaodi Hou. This legal action has resulted in court-imposed restrictions on financial transfers between the United States and China, limiting them to "normal business operations". Additionally, the company is engaged in a separate dispute regarding its American assets, which include approximately £355 million in cash reserves.
Whilst current CEO Lu confirmed the board's approval of the March proposal to transition into AI gaming, this decision has met with opposition. Representatives for Hou and other shareholders have challenged the move, asserting that investments in Chinese gaming and animation development proceeded without proper shareholder authorisation.
According to business planning documents, the company references third-party reports that value the global gaming market at £158 billion in 2023. Under its new identity as CreateAI, the organisation plans to concentrate on video game and anime production and publishing, utilising its newly developed Ruyi image-to-video AI model for content creation.
The rebranded company maintains a workforce of 270 employees globally, with research and content production teams operating across facilities in China, Japan and the United States.

Former autonomous vehicle company TuSimple announces major strategic shift to AI gaming technology while battling internal conflicts and regulatory challenges.

 



BEIJING Former self-driving truck developer TuSimple Holdings has announced its transformation into CreateAI, marking a strategic departure from autonomous vehicles to focus on AI gaming technology. The announcement, made on Thursday, signals the company's bid to revitalise its business following a period of significant challenges. Chief Executive Officer Cheng Lu characterised the transition to gaming and animation technology as a natural progression of the company's existing capabilities. This strategic shift follows two years of considerable difficulties and increased regulatory scrutiny. TuSimple, established in 2015, initially attracted substantial investment from major industry players, including Chinese technology firm Sina Corp and global corporations such as Nvidia, Volkswagen and UPS. However, the company's trajectory changed dramatically in 2022 when American regulators initiated investigations into its Chinese connections, leading to significant internal disputes. The company recently announced its intention to withdraw from the Nasdaq stock exchange, a decision coming less than three years after its successful initial public offering in April 2021, which raised £1.1 billion. This delisting represents a significant reversal for the formerly promising startup. Currently, TuSimple faces substantial legal challenges, including a significant lawsuit from its former CEO, Xiaodi Hou. This legal action has resulted in court-imposed restrictions on financial transfers between the United States and China, limiting them to "normal business operations". Additionally, the company is engaged in a separate dispute regarding its American assets, which include approximately £355 million in cash reserves. Whilst current CEO Lu confirmed the board's approval of the March proposal to transition into AI gaming, this decision has met with opposition. Representatives for Hou and other shareholders have challenged the move, asserting that investments in Chinese gaming and animation development proceeded without proper shareholder authorisation. According to business planning documents, the company references third-party reports that value the global gaming market at £158 billion in 2023. Under its new identity as CreateAI, the organisation plans to concentrate on video game and anime production and publishing, utilising its newly developed Ruyi image-to-video AI model for content creation. The rebranded company maintains a workforce of 270 employees globally, with research and content production teams operating across facilities in China, Japan and the United States.

TuSimple pivots to the gaming industry as CreateAI amidst legal disputes

Tokyo, Japan
The fact that Honda and Nissan, Japan's second- and third-largest automakers, are teetering on the brink of becoming a marriage speaks volumes about an existential threat growing from Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) to Japan's car manufacturing industry as dominant as it once was.
The two automakers have begun talks aimed at strengthening their collaboration, with sources familiar with the matter saying that a possible holding company or merger could even be on the table. The move follows a surge in Chinese EV brands, notably BYD, who have been winning over market share in China, the world's top automotive market, with the innovative electric vehicles and software.
Slumping sales in China contributed to Honda's recent 15 percent drop in quarterly profit because the company has laid off workers in China. And for Nissan, which has struggled with sales, it has announced plans to reduce capacity by 20% and cut 9,000 jobs worldwide. These challenges highlight tough competition from Chinese firms which are catching up to automotive stalwarts with cutting edge EV technology.
But experts like Sanshiro Fukao, executive fellow at the Itochu Research Institute in Tokyo, warned that even companies Honda and Nissan have very little time to maintain competitiveness. He stressed the urgent and transformational such shifts in the industry, and that the era of 'churning out profits through economies of scale' is over.
For Japan in particular, the automotive sector has long constituted the lifeblood of the economy. The auto industry is one of the main pillars for Japan’s manufacturing dominance, so anything anywhere near significant decline here could have far reaching effects. Throughout Japanese manufacturing, Takumi Tsunoda, senior economist at the Shinkin Central Bank Research Institute, predicts that "The whole of Japanese manufacturing will not get better if the auto industry doesn't."
As the talks unfold, the future of Honda and Nissan — and Japan’s automotive industry at large — hinges on their ability to respond to the sweeping changes driven by Chinese EV innovation.

 The move follows a surge in Chinese EV brands, notably BYD, who have been winning over market share in China.

 



Tokyo, Japan The fact that Honda and Nissan, Japan's second- and third-largest automakers, are teetering on the brink of becoming a marriage speaks volumes about an existential threat growing from Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) to Japan's car manufacturing industry as dominant as it once was. The two automakers have begun talks aimed at strengthening their collaboration, with sources familiar with the matter saying that a possible holding company or merger could even be on the table. The move follows a surge in Chinese EV brands, notably BYD, who have been winning over market share in China, the world's top automotive market, with the innovative electric vehicles and software. Slumping sales in China contributed to Honda's recent 15 percent drop in quarterly profit because the company has laid off workers in China. And for Nissan, which has struggled with sales, it has announced plans to reduce capacity by 20% and cut 9,000 jobs worldwide. These challenges highlight tough competition from Chinese firms which are catching up to automotive stalwarts with cutting edge EV technology. But experts like Sanshiro Fukao, executive fellow at the Itochu Research Institute in Tokyo, warned that even companies Honda and Nissan have very little time to maintain competitiveness. He stressed the urgent and transformational such shifts in the industry, and that the era of 'churning out profits through economies of scale' is over. For Japan in particular, the automotive sector has long constituted the lifeblood of the economy. The auto industry is one of the main pillars for Japan’s manufacturing dominance, so anything anywhere near significant decline here could have far reaching effects. Throughout Japanese manufacturing, Takumi Tsunoda, senior economist at the Shinkin Central Bank Research Institute, predicts that "The whole of Japanese manufacturing will not get better if the auto industry doesn't." As the talks unfold, the future of Honda and Nissan — and Japan’s automotive industry at large — hinges on their ability to respond to the sweeping changes driven by Chinese EV innovation.

Honda-Nissan merger talks highlight threat of Chinese EVs to Japan's auto industry

TAIPEI
Taiwan's leading contract manufacturer Foxconn has dispatched a senior executive to France for negotiations regarding a potential acquisition of Nissan Motor shares from Renault, according to Taiwan's Central News Agency. The development marks a significant move in the ongoing restructuring of global automotive alliances.
Jun Seki, who previously held an executive position at Nissan and currently heads Foxconn's electric vehicle operations, is reportedly meeting with Renault officials in France. Sources familiar with the discussions have confirmed that Foxconn is actively pursuing talks to acquire at least a portion of Renault's shareholding in Nissan.
The timing of these discussions is particularly noteworthy as Nissan is simultaneously engaged in separate talks with Honda, its longtime Japanese competitor, regarding potential enhanced cooperation that could extend to a merger. These parallel negotiations come as Nissan grapples with significant financial and strategic challenges, which recently led to the announcement of a substantial £2.1 billion cost reduction programme.
The potential stake sale to Foxconn could represent a pivotal shift in the automotive industry's landscape, particularly as traditional manufacturers navigate the transition towards electric vehicles and new technology integration. Foxconn, primarily known for manufacturing consumer electronics including Apple's iPhone, has been actively expanding its presence in the electric vehicle sector.
When approached for comment, Foxconn did not provide an immediate response to the reports. Similarly, attempts to reach Renault for comment were unsuccessful, whilst Nissan declined to offer any statement regarding the ongoing discussions.
The current talks underscore the broader transformation occurring within the global automotive sector, where traditional industry boundaries are increasingly blurred by the entry of technology companies into vehicle manufacturing. Foxconn's interest in acquiring a stake in Nissan through Renault suggests a strategic move to strengthen its position in the automotive industry.
This development could potentially reshape one of the automotive industry's most significant alliances, as Renault has historically been Nissan's largest shareholder. Any change in this ownership structure could have far-reaching implications for both companies' strategic directions and their existing partnership.
The concurrent discussions between Nissan and Honda further emphasise the complex nature of the automotive industry's current state, where manufacturers are increasingly seeking partnerships and consolidation to address technological challenges and market pressures. These parallel negotiations highlight the industry's ongoing evolution and the strategic importance of forming new alliances to remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven market.

Senior Foxconn executive enters discussions with Renault regarding possible acquisition of Nissan shares amidst automotive industry reshaping.

 



TAIPEI Taiwan's leading contract manufacturer Foxconn has dispatched a senior executive to France for negotiations regarding a potential acquisition of Nissan Motor shares from Renault, according to Taiwan's Central News Agency. The development marks a significant move in the ongoing restructuring of global automotive alliances. Jun Seki, who previously held an executive position at Nissan and currently heads Foxconn's electric vehicle operations, is reportedly meeting with Renault officials in France. Sources familiar with the discussions have confirmed that Foxconn is actively pursuing talks to acquire at least a portion of Renault's shareholding in Nissan. The timing of these discussions is particularly noteworthy as Nissan is simultaneously engaged in separate talks with Honda, its longtime Japanese competitor, regarding potential enhanced cooperation that could extend to a merger. These parallel negotiations come as Nissan grapples with significant financial and strategic challenges, which recently led to the announcement of a substantial £2.1 billion cost reduction programme. The potential stake sale to Foxconn could represent a pivotal shift in the automotive industry's landscape, particularly as traditional manufacturers navigate the transition towards electric vehicles and new technology integration. Foxconn, primarily known for manufacturing consumer electronics including Apple's iPhone, has been actively expanding its presence in the electric vehicle sector. When approached for comment, Foxconn did not provide an immediate response to the reports. Similarly, attempts to reach Renault for comment were unsuccessful, whilst Nissan declined to offer any statement regarding the ongoing discussions. The current talks underscore the broader transformation occurring within the global automotive sector, where traditional industry boundaries are increasingly blurred by the entry of technology companies into vehicle manufacturing. Foxconn's interest in acquiring a stake in Nissan through Renault suggests a strategic move to strengthen its position in the automotive industry. This development could potentially reshape one of the automotive industry's most significant alliances, as Renault has historically been Nissan's largest shareholder. Any change in this ownership structure could have far-reaching implications for both companies' strategic directions and their existing partnership. The concurrent discussions between Nissan and Honda further emphasise the complex nature of the automotive industry's current state, where manufacturers are increasingly seeking partnerships and consolidation to address technological challenges and market pressures. These parallel negotiations highlight the industry's ongoing evolution and the strategic importance of forming new alliances to remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven market.

Foxconn Executive in France for potential Nissan stake acquisition talks with Renault

HANOVER
Tensions have escalated in the ongoing negotiations between Volkswagen and Germany's IG Metall union, as both parties struggle to reach an agreement over crucial workforce and manufacturing decisions. The union has levelled accusations at Europe's largest automaker for deliberately stalling vital decisions regarding pay and job security, with the possibility of talks breaking down entirely.
The negotiations, which have now surpassed 60 hours, aim to prevent industrial action across Volkswagen's German operations. The automotive giant has acknowledged the complexity of the discussions but has refrained from addressing the union's criticism directly.
The current round of talks, which began in September, has already witnessed unprecedented worker mobilisation. Two separate strikes, involving approximately 100,000 workers, marked the largest industrial action in Volkswagen's history. These demonstrations were organised in response to management proposals to reduce wages, decrease production capacity, and potentially close German manufacturing facilities for the first time.
Sources close to the negotiations indicate that whilst considerable progress has been achieved regarding wage-related matters, the future of certain facilities, particularly the Osnabrueck and Dresden plants, remains uncertain. The discussions are scheduled to continue into Friday, with IG Metall demanding swift clarity from the company's management.
The dispute occurs against a backdrop of broader economic challenges in Germany, Europe's largest economy, and coincides with widespread upheaval in the automotive sector. The matter has gained political significance, emerging as a key campaign issue ahead of February's snap election, as politicians grapple with strategies to reinvigorate Germany's sluggish economic growth.
Volkswagen's unique corporate structure adds another layer of complexity to the negotiations. The company's decision-making process requires a two-thirds majority approval from its 20-member supervisory board for any changes to production facilities. This arrangement gives the ten members representing German labour unions effective veto power over significant operational changes affecting factories.
The management's target of achieving €4 billion in cost reductions is driven by predictions of structurally weaker demand in Europe. Whilst workers steadfastly oppose plant closures, alternative scenarios under consideration include capacity reductions rather than complete shutdowns. One proposal involves relocating Golf model production from the main Wolfsburg plant to Mexico.
The challenges facing Volkswagen extend beyond internal restructuring. The company must contend with increasing competition from more agile and cost-effective Chinese manufacturers, whilst simultaneously managing slower-than-anticipated electric vehicle adoption rates.
Recent reports from Bloomberg, citing anonymous sources, suggest that Volkswagen and union representatives may be approaching a compromise. The proposed arrangement would maintain German factory operations and extend job security guarantees until 2030, in exchange for workers forgoing certain bonus payments.

Marathon talks between Volkswagen and IG Metall union over cost-cutting measures and job security enter critical phase amidst growing tensions.

 



HANOVER Tensions have escalated in the ongoing negotiations between Volkswagen and Germany's IG Metall union, as both parties struggle to reach an agreement over crucial workforce and manufacturing decisions. The union has levelled accusations at Europe's largest automaker for deliberately stalling vital decisions regarding pay and job security, with the possibility of talks breaking down entirely. The negotiations, which have now surpassed 60 hours, aim to prevent industrial action across Volkswagen's German operations. The automotive giant has acknowledged the complexity of the discussions but has refrained from addressing the union's criticism directly. The current round of talks, which began in September, has already witnessed unprecedented worker mobilisation. Two separate strikes, involving approximately 100,000 workers, marked the largest industrial action in Volkswagen's history. These demonstrations were organised in response to management proposals to reduce wages, decrease production capacity, and potentially close German manufacturing facilities for the first time. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that whilst considerable progress has been achieved regarding wage-related matters, the future of certain facilities, particularly the Osnabrueck and Dresden plants, remains uncertain. The discussions are scheduled to continue into Friday, with IG Metall demanding swift clarity from the company's management. The dispute occurs against a backdrop of broader economic challenges in Germany, Europe's largest economy, and coincides with widespread upheaval in the automotive sector. The matter has gained political significance, emerging as a key campaign issue ahead of February's snap election, as politicians grapple with strategies to reinvigorate Germany's sluggish economic growth. Volkswagen's unique corporate structure adds another layer of complexity to the negotiations. The company's decision-making process requires a two-thirds majority approval from its 20-member supervisory board for any changes to production facilities. This arrangement gives the ten members representing German labour unions effective veto power over significant operational changes affecting factories. The management's target of achieving €4 billion in cost reductions is driven by predictions of structurally weaker demand in Europe. Whilst workers steadfastly oppose plant closures, alternative scenarios under consideration include capacity reductions rather than complete shutdowns. One proposal involves relocating Golf model production from the main Wolfsburg plant to Mexico. The challenges facing Volkswagen extend beyond internal restructuring. The company must contend with increasing competition from more agile and cost-effective Chinese manufacturers, whilst simultaneously managing slower-than-anticipated electric vehicle adoption rates. Recent reports from Bloomberg, citing anonymous sources, suggest that Volkswagen and union representatives may be approaching a compromise. The proposed arrangement would maintain German factory operations and extend job security guarantees until 2030, in exchange for workers forgoing certain bonus payments.

Volkswagen-Union negotiations deadlocked over German plant restructuring

Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh
A woman from Andhra Pradesh's West Godavari district was horrified to receive a parcel containing a decomposing dead body and a letter demanding ₹1.3 crore (USD 0.15 million)
As per media reports, the woman, identified as Naga Tulsi had been constructing a house on land sanctioned by the government and had sought financial help from the Kshatriya Seva Samithi. 
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The organisation had initially sent her tiles for the construction. Later, Tulsi requested additional support for electrical appliances. In response, she received a WhatsApp message confirming that items such as lights, fans, and switches would be sent.
However, on Thursday (December 19) night, Tulsi was handed a package by a delivery person who claimed it contained the promised appliances. To her shock, upon opening the parcel, she discovered the decaying body of an unidentified man along with a letter threatening severe consequences if ₹1.3 crore (USD 0.15 million) was not paid. It remains unclear whether the letter was directed at Tulsi or someone in her family.
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The police were immediately informed, and officers, including West Godavari Superintendent of Police Nayeem Asmi, visited the scene. The body was sent to a government hospital for a post-mortem examination. 
Preliminary results indicate that the man had been dead for four to five days. Authorities are working to identify the deceased, determine the cause of death, and uncover how the body ended up in the package. As part of the probe, representatives from the Kshatriya Seva Samithi have also been called in for questioning.
(With inputs from agencies)

As per media reports, the woman, identified as Naga Tulsi had been constructing a house on land sanctioned by the government and had sought financial help from the Kshatriya Seva Samithi. 



Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh A woman from Andhra Pradesh's West Godavari district was horrified to receive a parcel containing a decomposing dead body and a letter demanding ₹1.3 crore (USD 0.15 million) As per media reports, the woman, identified as Naga Tulsi had been constructing a house on land sanctioned by the government and had sought financial help from the Kshatriya Seva Samithi. Also read: Jaipur truck collision: Shocking video shows massive explosion The organisation had initially sent her tiles for the construction. Later, Tulsi requested additional support for electrical appliances. In response, she received a WhatsApp message confirming that items such as lights, fans, and switches would be sent. However, on Thursday (December 19) night, Tulsi was handed a package by a delivery person who claimed it contained the promised appliances. To her shock, upon opening the parcel, she discovered the decaying body of an unidentified man along with a letter threatening severe consequences if ₹1.3 crore (USD 0.15 million) was not paid. It remains unclear whether the letter was directed at Tulsi or someone in her family. Also read: ‘How can this be allowed?’ RSS slams resurgence of temple-mosque disputes The police were immediately informed, and officers, including West Godavari Superintendent of Police Nayeem Asmi, visited the scene. The body was sent to a government hospital for a post-mortem examination. Preliminary results indicate that the man had been dead for four to five days. Authorities are working to identify the deceased, determine the cause of death, and uncover how the body ended up in the package. As part of the probe, representatives from the Kshatriya Seva Samithi have also been called in for questioning. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Woman opens parcel expecting appliances, finds dead body and ransom note inside

Chicago, US
Chaos in public places in the United States (US) has almost become a trend, and every now and then, a video of a chaotic scene goes viral. In that series, a recent video of four men fighting at the Chicago O'Hare International Airport has been shared on the internet. 
The incident, which looked like straight out of a WWE match, occurred on Thursday (Dec 12) and left people on social media laughing hard. 
<h2>'WWE Match'</h2>
Watch | Joe Biden Declares Tougher 2035 Emissions Targets
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The chaotic scene happened in the American Airlines ticketing area at Terminal 3 when four men caught into a fight attacking each other with  "Wet Floor" signs as makeshift weapons. The video went viral and showed the men hitting each other with the improvised weapon and pulling each other's hair. The sound of plastic slapping on heads and bodies filled the terminal as one man, wearing a white shirt, pulled a handful of hair from another's head. 
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Three men attacked a single male inside O’hare airport . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chicago?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chicago</a> <a href="https://t.co/UrCART6HU6">pic.twitter.com/UrCART6HU6</a>
— Goofies Of Chicago (@Chicago_Goofies) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chicago_Goofies/status/1867382927811653796?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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People on the internet reshared the video, calling it a real-life "WWE match". Some even speculated that the fight was staged as some sort of promotional stunt. Others questioned the safety and security at the airport. 
<h2>No Case Filed</h2>
It was later found that the men fighting in the video were not the airport employees but workers at concession stands. 
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Police said no action was taken into the incident as no official case was filed and there were no disruptions in passenger services. 
(With inputs from agencies)

The incident, which looked like straight out of a WWE match, occurred on Thursday (Dec 12) and left people on social media laughing hard. 



Chicago, US Chaos in public places in the United States (US) has almost become a trend, and every now and then, a video of a chaotic scene goes viral. In that series, a recent video of four men fighting at the Chicago O'Hare International Airport has been shared on the internet. The incident, which looked like straight out of a WWE match, occurred on Thursday (Dec 12) and left people on social media laughing hard. 'WWE Match' Watch | Joe Biden Declares Tougher 2035 Emissions Targets The chaotic scene happened in the American Airlines ticketing area at Terminal 3 when four men caught into a fight attacking each other with "Wet Floor" signs as makeshift weapons. The video went viral and showed the men hitting each other with the improvised weapon and pulling each other's hair. The sound of plastic slapping on heads and bodies filled the terminal as one man, wearing a white shirt, pulled a handful of hair from another's head. Three men attacked a single male inside O’hare airport . #Chicago pic.twitter.com/UrCART6HU6 — Goofies Of Chicago (@Chicago_Goofies) December 13, 2024 People on the internet reshared the video, calling it a real-life "WWE match". Some even speculated that the fight was staged as some sort of promotional stunt. Others questioned the safety and security at the airport. No Case Filed It was later found that the men fighting in the video were not the airport employees but workers at concession stands. Also read | US diplomats arrive in Syria to meet leaders of new govt Police said no action was taken into the incident as no official case was filed and there were no disruptions in passenger services. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: 'WWE fight' among four men at Chicago airport with 'wet floor' sign boards

London
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Thursday (Dec 19) threw his weight behind Treasury Minister Tulip Siddiq after she was named in an anti-graft probe in Bangladesh. Dhaka is investigating a 2013 deal brokered by Siddiq between Bangladesh and Russia regarding setting up a nuclear power plant.
There are allegations that large sums of cash, approximately worth up to $4 billion, were embezzled in major infrastructure deals in Bangladesh, struck by the former government of Sheikh Hasina, the aunt of the UK minister.
The ongoing probe is part of a wider investigation against Hasina’s activities by Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
<h2>Who is Tulip Siddiq?</h2>
Tulip Siddiq is Sheikh Hasina’s niece. Hasina’s government was overthrown by student protestors earlier this year after violent demonstrations.
Serving as Treasury’s Economic Secretary, Siddiq is entrusted with dealing with corruption allegations inside UK financial market. She was appointed as anti-corruption minister by UK Labour Party following July victory.
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According to a BBC report, Siddiq’s father was a university professor in Dhaka. Hasina’s younger sister, Siddiq’s mother, was granted political asylum in UK. Her parents settled in Hampstead with their three children – Siddiq herself, her elder brother, and her younger sister. Siddiq was raised in a Muslim household.
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s first president, was Siddiq’s maternal grandfather. He was assassinated in 1975, along with most of his family during a military coup.
Watch:Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accuses Yunus Of Leading An 'Undemocratic Group'
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Siddiq got the opportunity to meet influential world leaders of the world as a child. She met leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Bill Clinton, and Mother Teresa, and her family was once invited to the White House as well. She was just 16 when she entered politics and joined the Labour Party. Later, Siddiq was selected as Labour’s candidate for the Hampstead and Kilburn constituency following the retirement of Glenda Jackson, an Oscar-winning actress turned MP.
(With inputs from agencies)

The ongoing probe is a part of wider investigation against Hasina’s activities by Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).



London UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Thursday (Dec 19) threw his weight behind Treasury Minister Tulip Siddiq after she was named in an anti-graft probe in Bangladesh. Dhaka is investigating a 2013 deal brokered by Siddiq between Bangladesh and Russia regarding setting up a nuclear power plant. There are allegations that large sums of cash, approximately worth up to $4 billion, were embezzled in major infrastructure deals in Bangladesh, struck by the former government of Sheikh Hasina, the aunt of the UK minister. The ongoing probe is part of a wider investigation against Hasina’s activities by Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). Who is Tulip Siddiq? Tulip Siddiq is Sheikh Hasina’s niece. Hasina’s government was overthrown by student protestors earlier this year after violent demonstrations. Serving as Treasury’s Economic Secretary, Siddiq is entrusted with dealing with corruption allegations inside UK financial market. She was appointed as anti-corruption minister by UK Labour Party following July victory. Also read: Sheikh Hasina involved as `instructor` in enforced disappearances, alleges Bangladesh`s inquiry commission According to a BBC report, Siddiq’s father was a university professor in Dhaka. Hasina’s younger sister, Siddiq’s mother, was granted political asylum in UK. Her parents settled in Hampstead with their three children – Siddiq herself, her elder brother, and her younger sister. Siddiq was raised in a Muslim household. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s first president, was Siddiq’s maternal grandfather. He was assassinated in 1975, along with most of his family during a military coup. Watch:Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accuses Yunus Of Leading An 'Undemocratic Group' × Siddiq got the opportunity to meet influential world leaders of the world as a child. She met leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Bill Clinton, and Mother Teresa, and her family was once invited to the White House as well. She was just 16 when she entered politics and joined the Labour Party. Later, Siddiq was selected as Labour’s candidate for the Hampstead and Kilburn constituency following the retirement of Glenda Jackson, an Oscar-winning actress turned MP. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Tulip Siddiq, UK anti-corruption minister facing graft probe in Bangladesh?

New Delhi, India 
Prithvi Shaw, who went unsold in the two-day IPL 2025 mega auction, was dropped from Mumbai's squad for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. After the snub, Shaw took to his Instagram story and wrote, "Tell me God, what more do I have to see? If 65 innings, 3399 runs at an average of 55.7 with a strike rate of 126, I'm not good enough. But I will keep my faith in you and, hopefully, people still believe in me, because I will come back for sure. Om Sai Ram." However, an MCA official has lashed out at Shaw, blaming him for his downfall due to fitness and disciplinary issues.
The official said, speaking anonymously to the news agency PTI, "The ball would pass near him, and he would barely make an effort to reach it. Even while batting, he struggled to reach the ball. His fitness, discipline, and attitude are lacking, and we cannot have different rules for different players."
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The official also opened up on Shaw's frustrations, which he vented out on social media. In this regard, the MCA official said, "Social media posts will not sway the Mumbai selectors or the MCA. Shaw needs to focus on his game, not on gaining sympathy."
The 25-year-old Shaw's career has taken a huge fall in recent times. Reportedly, there were several concerns regarding him before Mumbai omitted him from the Vijay Hazare squad. It is believed that the dashing batter missed training sessions at regular intervals and frequently returned to the team hotel at odd hours, irking his senior team members. 
Mumbai's Vijay Hazare Trophy squad doesn't include all-rounder Shams Mulani and veteran Ajinkya Rahane, who asked for rest due to personal reasons. 
Mumbai squad: Shreyas Iyer, Ayush Mhatre, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Jay Bista, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Siddhesh Lad, Hardik Tamore, Prasad Pawar, Atharva Ankolekar, Tanush Kotian, Shardul Thakur, Royston Dias, Juned Khan, Harsh Tanna, Vinayak Bhoir.

The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) official slammed Prithvi Shaw's dramatic outburst following his Vijay Hazare Trophy snub. 



New Delhi, India Prithvi Shaw, who went unsold in the two-day IPL 2025 mega auction, was dropped from Mumbai's squad for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. After the snub, Shaw took to his Instagram story and wrote, "Tell me God, what more do I have to see? If 65 innings, 3399 runs at an average of 55.7 with a strike rate of 126, I'm not good enough. But I will keep my faith in you and, hopefully, people still believe in me, because I will come back for sure. Om Sai Ram." However, an MCA official has lashed out at Shaw, blaming him for his downfall due to fitness and disciplinary issues. The official said, speaking anonymously to the news agency PTI, "The ball would pass near him, and he would barely make an effort to reach it. Even while batting, he struggled to reach the ball. His fitness, discipline, and attitude are lacking, and we cannot have different rules for different players." Also read: BGT: 'We want to provide...,' Australia selector on dropping Nathan McSweeney for final two Tests The official also opened up on Shaw's frustrations, which he vented out on social media. In this regard, the MCA official said, "Social media posts will not sway the Mumbai selectors or the MCA. Shaw needs to focus on his game, not on gaining sympathy." The 25-year-old Shaw's career has taken a huge fall in recent times. Reportedly, there were several concerns regarding him before Mumbai omitted him from the Vijay Hazare squad. It is believed that the dashing batter missed training sessions at regular intervals and frequently returned to the team hotel at odd hours, irking his senior team members. Mumbai's Vijay Hazare Trophy squad doesn't include all-rounder Shams Mulani and veteran Ajinkya Rahane, who asked for rest due to personal reasons. Mumbai squad: Shreyas Iyer, Ayush Mhatre, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Jay Bista, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Siddhesh Lad, Hardik Tamore, Prasad Pawar, Atharva Ankolekar, Tanush Kotian, Shardul Thakur, Royston Dias, Juned Khan, Harsh Tanna, Vinayak Bhoir.

He is his enemy: MCA SLAMS Prithvi Shaw for dramatic outburst after Vijay Hazare Trophy snub

Jaipur, India
At least 11 people were killed and more than 40 injured in the Jaipur city of northern Indian state of Rajasthan Friday (Dec 20) following a collision between a goods truck and an LPG tanker. The incident happened on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway, causing a major fire incident at a fuel pump in the Bhankrota area. The goods truck was reportedly carrying chemicals.
Over 40 vehicles parked in the vicinity were also gutted in the fire.
More than 20 fire engines were rushed to the site to put out the fire.
Police helped the injured reach nearby hospitals.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Jaipur, Rajasthan | 4 dead and several injured in a major accident and fire incident in the Bhankrota area.
A fire broke out due to the collision of many vehicles one after the other. Efforts are being made to douse the fire. <a href="https://t.co/3WHwok5u8W">pic.twitter.com/3WHwok5u8W</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1869938373454070057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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VIDEO | Rajasthan: A gas tanker caught fire on Ajmer Road in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jaipur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jaipur</a> earlier today. Several vehicles were also gutted in fire. More details are awaited.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JaipurNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JaipurNews</a>
(Full video available on PTI videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a>) <a href="https://t.co/kIJcm3AQRJ">pic.twitter.com/kIJcm3AQRJ</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1869931231774945667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The chief minister of Rajasthan, Bhajanlal Sharma, directed officials to ensure best treatment is offered to victims. He also visited the hospital where the injured had been admitted.
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"I am deeply saddened to hear the sad news of casualties of citizens in the gas tanker fire incident on Jaipur-Ajmer National Highway. As soon as the information about the incident was received, I went to SMS Hospital and directed the doctors to provide immediate necessary medical facilities and take proper care of the injured. Rescue work by the administration is continuing. The local administration and emergency services are working with full readiness. I pray to God to grant the departed souls a place in his supreme abode, give the bereaved families strength to bear this immense loss and provide speedy recovery to the injured," Sharma said in a post on X.
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Jaipur's District Magistrate (DM) Jitendra Soni in a statement said some 40 vehicles caught fire in the accident.
"Around 40 vehicles caught fire. Fire brigade and ambulances have reached the spot. The relief work is underway. The fire has been doused and only one to two vehicles are left. Around 23–24 people have been injured in the incident. A fire broke out due to the collision of many vehicles one after the other. Efforts are being made to douse the fire," the Jaipur official said.
(With inputs from agencies)

More than 20 fire engines were rushed to the site to put out the fire. Police helped the injured reach nearby hospitals.



Jaipur, India At least 11 people were killed and more than 40 injured in the Jaipur city of northern Indian state of Rajasthan Friday (Dec 20) following a collision between a goods truck and an LPG tanker. The incident happened on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway, causing a major fire incident at a fuel pump in the Bhankrota area. The goods truck was reportedly carrying chemicals. Over 40 vehicles parked in the vicinity were also gutted in the fire. More than 20 fire engines were rushed to the site to put out the fire. Police helped the injured reach nearby hospitals. #WATCH | Jaipur, Rajasthan | 4 dead and several injured in a major accident and fire incident in the Bhankrota area. A fire broke out due to the collision of many vehicles one after the other. Efforts are being made to douse the fire. pic.twitter.com/3WHwok5u8W — ANI (@ANI) December 20, 2024 × VIDEO | Rajasthan: A gas tanker caught fire on Ajmer Road in #Jaipur earlier today. Several vehicles were also gutted in fire. More details are awaited.#JaipurNews (Full video available on PTI videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/kIJcm3AQRJ — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 20, 2024 × The chief minister of Rajasthan, Bhajanlal Sharma, directed officials to ensure best treatment is offered to victims. He also visited the hospital where the injured had been admitted. Watch: Cyclist Champion Rohan Dennis Pleads Guilty Over Car Crash That Killed Wife Melissa Hoskins × "I am deeply saddened to hear the sad news of casualties of citizens in the gas tanker fire incident on Jaipur-Ajmer National Highway. As soon as the information about the incident was received, I went to SMS Hospital and directed the doctors to provide immediate necessary medical facilities and take proper care of the injured. Rescue work by the administration is continuing. The local administration and emergency services are working with full readiness. I pray to God to grant the departed souls a place in his supreme abode, give the bereaved families strength to bear this immense loss and provide speedy recovery to the injured," Sharma said in a post on X. Also read: Video: Six dead in Mumbai bus crash, detained driver blames brake failure Jaipur's District Magistrate (DM) Jitendra Soni in a statement said some 40 vehicles caught fire in the accident. "Around 40 vehicles caught fire. Fire brigade and ambulances have reached the spot. The relief work is underway. The fire has been doused and only one to two vehicles are left. Around 23–24 people have been injured in the incident. A fire broke out due to the collision of many vehicles one after the other. Efforts are being made to douse the fire," the Jaipur official said. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: 11 dead, dozens injured in India's Jaipur after collision between truck, LNG tanker

Sydney, Australia
Tactical timeouts will be allowed in mixed-doubles matches at the ATP-WTA season-opening United Cup, organisers said Friday, calling it a world first for tennis. The new rule will permit a player or captain to call a 60-second timeout to confer on strategy by pressing a large red buzzer in the team zone courtside. It can only be used while on serve, and not between first and second serves, with a maximum of one per team allowed during a match.
They will not be used during singles clashes. "Timeouts initiate a pause in play, it's a time for teams to discuss tactics and strategy and potentially change the momentum of a match," said United Cup tournament director Stephen Farrow. "We're excited to see how the best tennis players in the world and their teams utilise this new tool."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-chicago-bulls-stun-boston-celtics-117-108-lebron-james-sets-nba-minutes-played-record-785502">Chicago Bulls stun Boston Celtics 117-108, LeBron James sets NBA minutes-played record</a>
The 18-team United Cup kicks off the 2025 season from December 27-January 5 in Perth and Sydney ahead of the Australian Open Grand Slam in Melbourne. Each team features three men and three women, with ties comprising one men's and one women's singles and an often decisive mixed-doubles clash.
A host of the world's top players have signed up, including Iga Swiatek and Alexander Zverev.
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.

The new rule will permit a player or captain to call a 60-second timeout to confer on strategy by pressing a large red buzzer in the team zone courtside. It can only be used while on serve, and not between first and second serves, with a maximum of one per team allowed during a match.



Sydney, Australia Tactical timeouts will be allowed in mixed-doubles matches at the ATP-WTA season-opening United Cup, organisers said Friday, calling it a world first for tennis. The new rule will permit a player or captain to call a 60-second timeout to confer on strategy by pressing a large red buzzer in the team zone courtside. It can only be used while on serve, and not between first and second serves, with a maximum of one per team allowed during a match. They will not be used during singles clashes. "Timeouts initiate a pause in play, it's a time for teams to discuss tactics and strategy and potentially change the momentum of a match," said United Cup tournament director Stephen Farrow. "We're excited to see how the best tennis players in the world and their teams utilise this new tool." Also read: Chicago Bulls stun Boston Celtics 117-108, LeBron James sets NBA minutes-played record The 18-team United Cup kicks off the 2025 season from December 27-January 5 in Perth and Sydney ahead of the Australian Open Grand Slam in Melbourne. Each team features three men and three women, with ties comprising one men's and one women's singles and an often decisive mixed-doubles clash. A host of the world's top players have signed up, including Iga Swiatek and Alexander Zverev. 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.

Tennis season-opening United Cup to include tactical timeouts

New York
Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the December 4 shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, appeared in a Manhattan federal court Thursday (Dec 20), facing charges that include murder, stalking, and firearms offences. The 26-year-old was extradited from Pennsylvania earlier in the day after being arrested at a McDonald's restaurant last week. 
<h2>Legal proceedings and charges</h2>
As per the US Department of Justice, Mangione, an Ivy League graduate, faces federal charges that could lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty.
This comes alongside separate New York state charges, including second-degree murder classified as "an act of terrorism."  
Karen Friedman Agnifilo, Mangione's attorney, called the simultaneous federal and state charges "highly unusual."
According to a CNN report, she also noted that her team is not seeking bail at this time.  
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luigi-mangione-suspect-in-unitedhealthcare-ceos-murder-agrees-to-return-to-new-york-for-trial-785373">Luigi Mangione, suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder, agrees to return to New York for trial</a>
The Department of Justice alleges that Mangione meticulously planned the attack, checking into a Manhattan hostel under false identification and conducting reconnaissance near the victim's hotel and conference venue.
Authorities claim Mangione tracked Thompson, approached him, and fired multiple shots using a silencer-equipped pistol before fleeing on a bicycle.  
<h2>Why did Luigi Mangione kill the CEO?</h2>
Law enforcement has speculated that Mangione's actions were motivated by grievances linked to the US healthcare system, exacerbated by a back injury that profoundly affected his life.
However, there is no evidence to suggest Mangione was directly associated with UnitedHealthcare as a client.  
During his arrest, authorities discovered a three-page handwritten critique of the health care system and a notebook with an entry describing the target as "insurance" because it "checks every box." Additionally, reports suggest that the casings of the bullets used in the attack were inscribed with the phrases "depose, deny, delay".
Watch | Luigi Mangione: Who Is The Man Accused Of Killing UnitedHealthcare’s CEO?
<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/11/470723-org-2-1.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1112_WION_CEO_SHOOTING_ORG_GK_WEB.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=190&tags=luigi mangione,unitedhealthcare ceo,murder,crime,nypd" width="560"></iframe>
<h2>Internet's favourite CEO killer</h2>
Mangione's alleged actions have drawn national attention, stirring public discourse about the state of the US healthcare system. Supporters outside the courthouse were even seen carrying signs such as "Health over wealth," in his support.
Social media platforms have also been flooded with criticism of the US healthcare system, with many lionising Mangione as a symbol of frustration against costly and opaque medical practices.  
Also read | <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjEnt6_nLWKAxUFa_UHHefILNMQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alleged-unitedhealthcare-ceo-killer-luigi-mangione-charged-with-murder-terrorism-for-brian-thompson-murder-784812" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Luigi Mangione, suspect in Brian Thompson's shooting, charged with CEO's murder, terrorism</a>
<h2>Mangione's high-profile extradition  </h2>
Mangione's transfer from Pennsylvania to New York happened on December 19 and was broadcast live on television. Escorted by police vehicles and tactical officers, Mangione was transported by a New York Police Department (NYPD) helicopter, with New York Mayor Eric Adams personally overseeing the operation.  
Adams condemned the act as terrorism, vowing that such violence "will not be tolerated" in New York City.
Acting US Attorney Edward Kim reinforced this sentiment, calling the killing a "grossly misguided attempt to broadcast Mangione's views across the country".  
(With inputs from agencies)

Luigi Mangione appeared in a Manhattan federal court Thursday (Dec 20), facing charges that include murder, stalking and firearms offences



New York Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the December 4 shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, appeared in a Manhattan federal court Thursday (Dec 20), facing charges that include murder, stalking, and firearms offences. The 26-year-old was extradited from Pennsylvania earlier in the day after being arrested at a McDonald's restaurant last week. Legal proceedings and charges As per the US Department of Justice, Mangione, an Ivy League graduate, faces federal charges that could lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty. This comes alongside separate New York state charges, including second-degree murder classified as "an act of terrorism." Karen Friedman Agnifilo, Mangione's attorney, called the simultaneous federal and state charges "highly unusual." According to a CNN report, she also noted that her team is not seeking bail at this time. Also read | Luigi Mangione, suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder, agrees to return to New York for trial The Department of Justice alleges that Mangione meticulously planned the attack, checking into a Manhattan hostel under false identification and conducting reconnaissance near the victim's hotel and conference venue. Authorities claim Mangione tracked Thompson, approached him, and fired multiple shots using a silencer-equipped pistol before fleeing on a bicycle. Why did Luigi Mangione kill the CEO? Law enforcement has speculated that Mangione's actions were motivated by grievances linked to the US healthcare system, exacerbated by a back injury that profoundly affected his life. However, there is no evidence to suggest Mangione was directly associated with UnitedHealthcare as a client. During his arrest, authorities discovered a three-page handwritten critique of the health care system and a notebook with an entry describing the target as "insurance" because it "checks every box." Additionally, reports suggest that the casings of the bullets used in the attack were inscribed with the phrases "depose, deny, delay". Watch | Luigi Mangione: Who Is The Man Accused Of Killing UnitedHealthcare’s CEO? Internet's favourite CEO killer Mangione's alleged actions have drawn national attention, stirring public discourse about the state of the US healthcare system. Supporters outside the courthouse were even seen carrying signs such as "Health over wealth," in his support. Social media platforms have also been flooded with criticism of the US healthcare system, with many lionising Mangione as a symbol of frustration against costly and opaque medical practices. Also read | Luigi Mangione, suspect in Brian Thompson's shooting, charged with CEO's murder, terrorism Mangione's high-profile extradition Mangione's transfer from Pennsylvania to New York happened on December 19 and was broadcast live on television. Escorted by police vehicles and tactical officers, Mangione was transported by a New York Police Department (NYPD) helicopter, with New York Mayor Eric Adams personally overseeing the operation. Adams condemned the act as terrorism, vowing that such violence "will not be tolerated" in New York City. Acting US Attorney Edward Kim reinforced this sentiment, calling the killing a "grossly misguided attempt to broadcast Mangione's views across the country". (With inputs from agencies)

Luigi Mangione appears in New York court, faces murder charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting

Pune, India
The chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), widely regarded as the parent organisation of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has slammed the recent surge in temple-mosque disputes in the country in a rare rebuke of the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Mohan Bhagwat said that following the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Temple, some individuals were trying to rake up such sensitive issues, believing it could help them become “leaders of Hindus”.
"We have been living in harmony for a long time. If we want to provide this harmony to the world, we need to create a model of it. After the construction of the Ram Mandir, some people think they can become leaders of Hindus by raking up similar issues in new places. This is not acceptable," said the RSS chief at an event in the Pune city of the Western Indian state of Maharashtra.
Bhagwat also hailed India’s pluralistic society, referring to forthcoming Christmas celebrations in Ramakrishna Mission, saying, “only we can do this because we are Hindus".
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The RSS chief said that the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was built because it was a matter of high significance for all Hindus. He added that new disputes between the Hindu and Muslim communities shouldn’t be allowed to dominate the discourse in society. "Every day a new matter (dispute) is being raked up. How can this be allowed? This cannot continue. India needs to show that we can live together," he added, without naming any ongoing dispute.
Bhagwat’s words of caution come weeks after the northern city of Sambhal was rocked by communal riots in November over the survey of a mosque.
Five people died in the violence, leading to multiple arrests and police cases. Not just that, courts have witnessed surge in pleas and petitions asking for surveys of mosques, claiming they were built after destroying temples.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwiCkZGO37WKAxUMZvUHHYeeNrQQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-cong-and-its-rotten-ecosystem-indian-pm-modi-responds-to-oppn-criticising-shah-for-remarks-on-ambedkar-784953" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-cong-and-its-rotten-ecosystem-indian-pm-modi-responds-to-oppn-criticising-shah-for-remarks-on-ambedkar-784953&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiCkZGO37WKAxUMZvUHHYeeNrQQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">If Cong and its rotten ecosystem...: Indian PM Modi responds to oppn criticising Shah`s remarks on Ambedkar</a>
"But now the country runs as per the Constitution. In this setup, people choose their representatives, who run the government. The days of hegemony are gone," the RSS chief asserted.
(With inputs from agencies)

Mohan Bhagwat also hailed India’s pluralistic society, referring to forthcoming Christmas celebrations in Ramakrishna Mission, saying, “only we can do this because we are Hindus".



Pune, India The chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), widely regarded as the parent organisation of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has slammed the recent surge in temple-mosque disputes in the country in a rare rebuke of the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mohan Bhagwat said that following the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Temple, some individuals were trying to rake up such sensitive issues, believing it could help them become “leaders of Hindus”. "We have been living in harmony for a long time. If we want to provide this harmony to the world, we need to create a model of it. After the construction of the Ram Mandir, some people think they can become leaders of Hindus by raking up similar issues in new places. This is not acceptable," said the RSS chief at an event in the Pune city of the Western Indian state of Maharashtra. Bhagwat also hailed India’s pluralistic society, referring to forthcoming Christmas celebrations in Ramakrishna Mission, saying, “only we can do this because we are Hindus". Also read: Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’ The RSS chief said that the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was built because it was a matter of high significance for all Hindus. He added that new disputes between the Hindu and Muslim communities shouldn’t be allowed to dominate the discourse in society. "Every day a new matter (dispute) is being raked up. How can this be allowed? This cannot continue. India needs to show that we can live together," he added, without naming any ongoing dispute. Bhagwat’s words of caution come weeks after the northern city of Sambhal was rocked by communal riots in November over the survey of a mosque. Five people died in the violence, leading to multiple arrests and police cases. Not just that, courts have witnessed surge in pleas and petitions asking for surveys of mosques, claiming they were built after destroying temples. Also read: If Cong and its rotten ecosystem...: Indian PM Modi responds to oppn criticising Shah`s remarks on Ambedkar "But now the country runs as per the Constitution. In this setup, people choose their representatives, who run the government. The days of hegemony are gone," the RSS chief asserted. (With inputs from agencies)

‘How can this be allowed?’ RSS chief slams resurgence of temple-mosque disputes in India

California, USA 
<meta content="uuidmZHRRV0BhgEW" name="uuid"/>
In an era of chatbots, Character.AI, a chatbot platform backed by Google, is under review and facing criticism for engaging users in disturbing and graphic violent content inclusive of shootings in school. A chatbot puts users in a fake shooting scenario depicting some horrifying moments. Such incidents have caused outrage as the platform allows minors to use such content.
<h2>What Is Character.AI?</h2>
Character.AI made its way in 2022, with founders Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas. It lets the users create and interact with chatbots. The users can personalise their bot's personality and voice.
The platform has been designed in a way that the users can design characters for their chats, brainstorming, and even gaming.
However, the platform has been brought to light as it lacks effective safety, which ultimately made it a hotspot for some harmful and inappropriate content. Users as young as 13 can register, but there is no way to authenticate the age verification to prevent younger children from lying about their age.
Watch | Dark side of Artificial Intelligence
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<h2>Lack of moderation</h2>
The platform failed to implement safe guidance even though the policies were against such violent content.
&gt; It allos the users to interact with chatbots describing real-life school shooters or victims, at times extolling acts of violence or leveraging real tragic incidents.
&gt; Certain bots imitated offenders such as those who committed crimes like Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas depicting them as benevolent characters.
&gt; Some users have reported bots personating those victims of school shootings.
&gt; These bots are described as “ghosts” or “angels,” often including personal details about the victims and their deaths.
&gt; Mental health experts warn to be cautious about the interactions since it can lower psychological barriers for individuals who struggle with violent thoughts.
The platform is being charged with many lawsuits over its failure to protect its users from harmful content.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/urgent-actions-needed-to-stop-spread-of-ai-generated-child-sexual-abuse-images-internet-651564">Urgent actions needed to stop spread of AI-generated child sexual abuse images on internet</a>
<h2>Safety concern</h2>
The platform has rules stating that users must be 13+ (16+ in the EU), although these rules are easy to deviate from. The app is further rated for parental guidance on Google Play and 17+ on Apple's app store. But this comes as a state of worry because there is no strict way to adhere, which lets the minors access some harmful content.
<h2>Response to criticism</h2>
In response to criticism, Character.AI has removed some complicated bots and promised new safety features. The company has also promised to work with online safety experts to highlight these issues. At the same time, many problematic bots remain active, and critics argue that the platform’s efforts are insufficient.
Many are calling for stricter age verification, improved content moderation, and ethical guidelines to prevent the exploitation of real-world tragedies. As the investigation intensifies, the future of Character.AI remains to be seen, seeking some meaningful and safe changes within the platform. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Character.AI made its way in 2022, with founders Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas. It lets the users create and interact with chatbots. The users can personalise their bot's personality and voice.



California, USA In an era of chatbots, Character.AI, a chatbot platform backed by Google, is under review and facing criticism for engaging users in disturbing and graphic violent content inclusive of shootings in school. A chatbot puts users in a fake shooting scenario depicting some horrifying moments. Such incidents have caused outrage as the platform allows minors to use such content. What Is Character.AI? Character.AI made its way in 2022, with founders Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas. It lets the users create and interact with chatbots. The users can personalise their bot's personality and voice. The platform has been designed in a way that the users can design characters for their chats, brainstorming, and even gaming. However, the platform has been brought to light as it lacks effective safety, which ultimately made it a hotspot for some harmful and inappropriate content. Users as young as 13 can register, but there is no way to authenticate the age verification to prevent younger children from lying about their age. Watch | Dark side of Artificial Intelligence Lack of moderation The platform failed to implement safe guidance even though the policies were against such violent content. > It allos the users to interact with chatbots describing real-life school shooters or victims, at times extolling acts of violence or leveraging real tragic incidents. > Certain bots imitated offenders such as those who committed crimes like Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas depicting them as benevolent characters. > Some users have reported bots personating those victims of school shootings. > These bots are described as “ghosts” or “angels,” often including personal details about the victims and their deaths. > Mental health experts warn to be cautious about the interactions since it can lower psychological barriers for individuals who struggle with violent thoughts. The platform is being charged with many lawsuits over its failure to protect its users from harmful content. Also Read: Urgent actions needed to stop spread of AI-generated child sexual abuse images on internet Safety concern The platform has rules stating that users must be 13+ (16+ in the EU), although these rules are easy to deviate from. The app is further rated for parental guidance on Google Play and 17+ on Apple's app store. But this comes as a state of worry because there is no strict way to adhere, which lets the minors access some harmful content. Response to criticism In response to criticism, Character.AI has removed some complicated bots and promised new safety features. The company has also promised to work with online safety experts to highlight these issues. At the same time, many problematic bots remain active, and critics argue that the platform’s efforts are insufficient. Many are calling for stricter age verification, improved content moderation, and ethical guidelines to prevent the exploitation of real-world tragedies. As the investigation intensifies, the future of Character.AI remains to be seen, seeking some meaningful and safe changes within the platform. (With inputs from agencies)

Character.AI facing criticism over lack of moderation and violent content in their chatbot

Chandigarh, India
Om Prakash Chautala, the former chief minister of Haryana and leader of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) party, died on Friday (Dec 20) at the age of 89. Chautala reportedly suffered cardiac arrest at his Gurugram home and was rushed to hospital but he couldn't be saved.
<h2>Who was Om Prakash Chautala?</h2>
Om Prakash Chautala served as the seventh CM of Haryana. He was the son of the sixth deputy prime minister of India, Chaudhary Devi Lal. 
The Indian politician held in his name the record for being the oldest prisoner of the Tihar Jail of Delhi (aged 87), when he was sent to jail in 2022.
Chautala is hailed as one of the major stalwarts of Indian politics; however, his career was also marked by controversies, including a recruitment scam that led to his imprisonment.
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In 2013, Chautala was awarded 10 years of jail time for a scam involving the appointment of junior teachers during 1999-2000.
His INLD party was once a part of the National Democratic Alliance, led by the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). Later, he shifted his allegiance to a third front, involving parties other than BJP and Congress.
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Chautala was also sentenced to four years in jail in a 16-year-old disproportionate assets case on 27 May 2022 by a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Court.
<h2>Om Prakash Chautala's family</h2>
Om Prakash Chautala's wife, Sneh Lata, died in August 2019. The politician is survived by his three daughters and two sons, Abhay Singh Chautala and Ajay Singh Chautala.
(With inputs from agencies)

Om Prakash Chautala served as the seventh chief minister of Haryana. He was the son of sixth Deputy prime minister of India, Chaudhary Devi Lal. 



Chandigarh, India Om Prakash Chautala, the former chief minister of Haryana and leader of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) party, died on Friday (Dec 20) at the age of 89. Chautala reportedly suffered cardiac arrest at his Gurugram home and was rushed to hospital but he couldn't be saved. Who was Om Prakash Chautala? Om Prakash Chautala served as the seventh CM of Haryana. He was the son of the sixth deputy prime minister of India, Chaudhary Devi Lal. The Indian politician held in his name the record for being the oldest prisoner of the Tihar Jail of Delhi (aged 87), when he was sent to jail in 2022. Chautala is hailed as one of the major stalwarts of Indian politics; however, his career was also marked by controversies, including a recruitment scam that led to his imprisonment. Also read: ‘Nothing is happening,’ SC rebukes Haryana, Punjab over Delhi’s pollution problem In 2013, Chautala was awarded 10 years of jail time for a scam involving the appointment of junior teachers during 1999-2000. His INLD party was once a part of the National Democratic Alliance, led by the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). Later, he shifted his allegiance to a third front, involving parties other than BJP and Congress. Also read: India’s poll body rejects Opposition’s ‘baseless’ allegations of irregularities in Haryana polls Chautala was also sentenced to four years in jail in a 16-year-old disproportionate assets case on 27 May 2022 by a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Court. Om Prakash Chautala's family Om Prakash Chautala's wife, Sneh Lata, died in August 2019. The politician is survived by his three daughters and two sons, Abhay Singh Chautala and Ajay Singh Chautala. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was Om Prakash Chautala? Former Haryana CM dies at 89 in Gurugram

New Delhi, India
A private school in Delhi's Dwarka area received a bomb threat on Friday, police said.
In response to the threat, emergency response teams have been dispatched to the school and classes have been shifted to online mode, Delhi Police said.
Further details are awaited.
This is not the first instance of such threats disrupting schools in the national capital.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-parliament-scuffle-bjp-files-attempt-to-murder-case-on-congress-rahul-gandhi-785288">Parliament scuffle: Delhi Police register FIR against Rahul Gandhi, Congress lodges counter plaint</a>
On December 14, the Delhi Police Special Cell identified a student of a private school as the person who had sent a bomb threat email to the Paschim Vihar school.
According to police, the student had sent the threat email to his school, and after tracing the IP address, the police team traced his home. Upon questioning, the child admitted to the act and was later counselled. He was let off with a warning to his parents to keep a watch on his behaviour.
On December 14 and 17, several schools in Delhi received bomb threat emails. Furthermore, on December 13, a total of 30 schools across Delhi were targeted with hoax bomb threat emails.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-five-dead-dozens-injured-in-jaipur-after-collision-between-truck-lng-tanker-785454">Video: Six dead, dozens injured in India's Jaipur after collision between truck, LNG tanker</a>
South East Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Ravi Kumar Singh speaking about the December 13 bomb threat said that an investigation into the fake threats revealed that the e-mails sent to the schools had been generated outside the country.
On December 13, Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Friday voiced serious concerns about recurring bomb threats targeting schools in the national capital. Kejriwal questioned the potential psychological and academic impact on children, saying such incidents could disrupt their studies and well-being if they continue unabated.
On November 19, the Delhi High Court instructed the Delhi Government and Police to develop a comprehensive action plan, including a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to address bomb threats and related emergencies. The court set a deadline of eight weeks for the completion of these directives.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience

In response to the threat, emergency response teams have been dispatched to the school and classes have been shifted to online mode, Delhi Police said



New Delhi, India A private school in Delhi's Dwarka area received a bomb threat on Friday, police said. In response to the threat, emergency response teams have been dispatched to the school and classes have been shifted to online mode, Delhi Police said. Further details are awaited. This is not the first instance of such threats disrupting schools in the national capital. Also read | Parliament scuffle: Delhi Police register FIR against Rahul Gandhi, Congress lodges counter plaint On December 14, the Delhi Police Special Cell identified a student of a private school as the person who had sent a bomb threat email to the Paschim Vihar school. According to police, the student had sent the threat email to his school, and after tracing the IP address, the police team traced his home. Upon questioning, the child admitted to the act and was later counselled. He was let off with a warning to his parents to keep a watch on his behaviour. On December 14 and 17, several schools in Delhi received bomb threat emails. Furthermore, on December 13, a total of 30 schools across Delhi were targeted with hoax bomb threat emails. Also read | Video: Six dead, dozens injured in India's Jaipur after collision between truck, LNG tanker South East Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Ravi Kumar Singh speaking about the December 13 bomb threat said that an investigation into the fake threats revealed that the e-mails sent to the schools had been generated outside the country. On December 13, Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Friday voiced serious concerns about recurring bomb threats targeting schools in the national capital. Kejriwal questioned the potential psychological and academic impact on children, saying such incidents could disrupt their studies and well-being if they continue unabated. On November 19, the Delhi High Court instructed the Delhi Government and Police to develop a comprehensive action plan, including a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to address bomb threats and related emergencies. The court set a deadline of eight weeks for the completion of these directives. 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

Delhi school receives bomb threat, classes shifted to online mode

Paris, France
Caroline Darian, the daughter of French rape survivor Gisèle Pélicot and convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot on Tuesday (Dec 17) yelled at her father saying he would "die in lies" as the biggest rape trial ended with the conviction of 51 defendants.  
The trial lasted three months and was widely covered by global media. Details of the abuse Gisele bore at the hands of her former spouse shocked the world by its sheer depravity.
Darian, who has previously told the court that she feels like a "forgotten victim" as there was no record of the abuse she is convinced was inflicted on her, yelled at her father, "You will die in lies".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-very-difficult-ordeal-gisele-pelicots-first-words-after-verdict-in-france-mass-rape-trial-785338">A very difficult ordeal: Gisele Pelicot's first words after verdict in France mass rape trial</a>
<h2>Did Dominique Pelicot abuse Caroline Darian?</h2>
In spite of some damning photos that were discovered on his computer, Dominique Pélicot continues to insist that he had never abused his daughter Caroline.
He is accused of drugging Caroline Darian when she was 20 years old and clicking semi-naked photos of her in lingerie on a bed. These images were found years later on his computer.
Dominique, however, insists he "did nothing" to his daughter. 
Watch | France Mass Rape Trial: Gisèle Pelicot's Ex-Husband Dominique Sentenced To 20 Years In Prison
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In court, during the close statements, Dominique said that he is not going to "try to convince" his daughter with "perverse answers" and claimed he didn't remember taking the photos.
"I tell her straight in the eyes that I never touched her," he insisted.
Turning to Caroline, he reiterated "I have never done anything to you," but was interrupted by her saying, "You lie, you don't have the courage to tell the truth! Even about your ex-wife!" 
"You will die in lies! Alone, alone in lies Dominique Pélicot!" she exclaimed.
Previously, in November, she had yelled at Dominique, "I'll never see you again! You’ll die alone like a dog".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-trial-who-are-the-51-men-accused-of-raping-gisele-pelicot-785329">France mass rape trial: Who are the 51 men accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot?</a>
<h2>Dominique Pelicot's perverse crimes</h2>
For almost a decade starting in 2011, Dominique drugged his wife and recruited dozens of men online to have sex with her while unconscious. In the closing statements, accepting his crimes, Dominique Pélicot said that his "motive" behind the disturbing crimes was wanting to satisfy a "fantasy".
"I came to do what I did through people who willingly accepted what I proposed," he told the court.
(With inputs from agencies)

Darian, who has previously told the court that she feels like a "forgotten victim" yelled at her father, "You will die in lies".



Paris, France Caroline Darian, the daughter of French rape survivor Gisèle Pélicot and convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot on Tuesday (Dec 17) yelled at her father saying he would "die in lies" as the biggest rape trial ended with the conviction of 51 defendants. The trial lasted three months and was widely covered by global media. Details of the abuse Gisele bore at the hands of her former spouse shocked the world by its sheer depravity. Darian, who has previously told the court that she feels like a "forgotten victim" as there was no record of the abuse she is convinced was inflicted on her, yelled at her father, "You will die in lies". Also read | A very difficult ordeal: Gisele Pelicot's first words after verdict in France mass rape trial Did Dominique Pelicot abuse Caroline Darian? In spite of some damning photos that were discovered on his computer, Dominique Pélicot continues to insist that he had never abused his daughter Caroline. He is accused of drugging Caroline Darian when she was 20 years old and clicking semi-naked photos of her in lingerie on a bed. These images were found years later on his computer. Dominique, however, insists he "did nothing" to his daughter. Watch | France Mass Rape Trial: Gisèle Pelicot's Ex-Husband Dominique Sentenced To 20 Years In Prison × In court, during the close statements, Dominique said that he is not going to "try to convince" his daughter with "perverse answers" and claimed he didn't remember taking the photos. "I tell her straight in the eyes that I never touched her," he insisted. Turning to Caroline, he reiterated "I have never done anything to you," but was interrupted by her saying, "You lie, you don't have the courage to tell the truth! Even about your ex-wife!" "You will die in lies! Alone, alone in lies Dominique Pélicot!" she exclaimed. Previously, in November, she had yelled at Dominique, "I'll never see you again! You’ll die alone like a dog". Also read | France mass rape trial: Who are the 51 men accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot? Dominique Pelicot's perverse crimes For almost a decade starting in 2011, Dominique drugged his wife and recruited dozens of men online to have sex with her while unconscious. In the closing statements, accepting his crimes, Dominique Pélicot said that his "motive" behind the disturbing crimes was wanting to satisfy a "fantasy". "I came to do what I did through people who willingly accepted what I proposed," he told the court. (With inputs from agencies)

France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot

Washington, United States
Zach LaVine scored a season-high 36 points to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 117-108 upset victory at defending NBA champion Boston on Thursday while LeBron James once again made history. LaVine went 11-of-19 from the floor and made six 3-pointers while adding six rebounds and four assists for the Bulls, who improved to 13-15 on the season. "We're a good team," LaVine said. "We're competitive and we're a resilient group." Ayo Dosunmu contributed 17 points for the Bulls while Nikola Vucevic had 16 points and 14 rebounds for Chicago.
The Bulls outscored Boston 35-22 in the fourth quarter to rally past the Celtics, who had 31 points and 10 rebounds from Jason Tatum, 20 points from Kristaps Porzingis and 19 from Jaylen Brown in a losing cause as Boston fell to 21-6 on the season. James broke the NBA all-time minutes played record that had belonged to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar when he was on the court for his 57,447th minute of NBA competition and 10th of the game in helping the Los Angeles Lakers beat Sacramento 113-100.
James, who passed Abdul-Jabbar for the NBA all-time scoring record earlier this year, scored 19 points while Austin Reaves had 25 points and Anthony Davis added 21 points and 20 rebounds. "It's just a commitment to the craft and to the passion and love I have for the game," James said. "I don't take much time in the off-season, a little bit more time now."
French star Victor Wembanyama scored 42 points to power the San Antonio Spurs to a 133-126 overtime triumph over visiting Atlanta. De'Andre Hunter, who led the Hawks with 27 points off the bench, slammed in a dunk with 11 seconds remaining to lift Atlanta level at 120-120 and force the overtime, in which Wemby had a dunk and two 3-pointers to outscore Atlanta on his own.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 35 points to spark the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder to a 105-99 triumph at Orlando. Anthony Black led the Magic with 23 points off the bench. Memphis routed the visiting Golden State Warriors 144-93 but lost guard Ja Morant to back soreness following a fall after playing just 17 minutes.
Spanish forward Santi Aldama had 21 points and 14 rebounds off the bench to lead the Grizzlies, who made a club-record 27 3-pointers in 48 attempts, Aldama and Luke Kennard each hitting five to lead the way.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/tottenham-hotspur-survive-man-utd-comeback-to-reach-league-cup-semi-finals-785429">Tottenham Hotspur survive Man Utd comeback to reach League Cup semi-finals</a>
<h2>- Towns wins in return -</h2>
New York's Karl-Anthony Towns, given an ovation by fans on his return from Minnesota after being traded away, scored 32 points and grabbed 20 rebounds to spark the Knicks over the host Timberwolves 133-107. "I'm just happy I was able to have the game I had," Towns said.  "I'm just happy our team could get a win. I called this place home for nine seasons. This place means a lot to me... I didn't want to let my emotions overcome the game. I wasn't playing for myself. I was playing for the win."
At Houston, Jalen Green scored 34 points and Dillon Brooks added 26 to lead the host Rockets over New Orleans 133-113. At Dallas, Norman Powell scored 29 points and James Harden added 24 to spark the Los Angeles Clippers over the host Mavericks 118-95. 
At Indianapolis, Pascal Siakam had 25 points and 18 rebounds to lead the Indiana Pacers over Phoenix 120-111 despite a 37-point performance by Kevin Durant in a losing cause. At Portland, Anfernee Simons scored 28 points and made a layup at the buzzer to give the host Trail Blazers a 126-124 victory over Denver despite 34 points by Nikola Jokic for the Nuggets.
Brooklyn's Cameron Johnson had 33 points, 10 rebounds and six assists to pace the Nets in a 101-94 victory at Toronto. Utah's Collin Sexton scored 30 points and Keyonte George added 28 to lead the Jazz to a 126-119 victory at Detroit.
Jordan Poole scored 27 points and reserve Malcolm Brogdon added 25 to lead the Washington Wizards over visiting Charlotte 123-114. LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with 34 points.
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.

The Bulls outscored Boston 35-22 in the fourth quarter to rally past the Celtics, who had 31 points and 10 rebounds from Jason Tatum, 20 points from Kristaps Porzingis and 19 from Jaylen Brown in a losing cause as Boston fell to 21-6 on the season. James broke the NBA all-time minutes played record that had belonged to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar when he was on the court for his 57,447th minute of NBA competition and 10th of the game in helping the Los Angeles Lakers beat Sacramento 113-100.



Washington, United States Zach LaVine scored a season-high 36 points to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 117-108 upset victory at defending NBA champion Boston on Thursday while LeBron James once again made history. LaVine went 11-of-19 from the floor and made six 3-pointers while adding six rebounds and four assists for the Bulls, who improved to 13-15 on the season. "We're a good team," LaVine said. "We're competitive and we're a resilient group." Ayo Dosunmu contributed 17 points for the Bulls while Nikola Vucevic had 16 points and 14 rebounds for Chicago. The Bulls outscored Boston 35-22 in the fourth quarter to rally past the Celtics, who had 31 points and 10 rebounds from Jason Tatum, 20 points from Kristaps Porzingis and 19 from Jaylen Brown in a losing cause as Boston fell to 21-6 on the season. James broke the NBA all-time minutes played record that had belonged to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar when he was on the court for his 57,447th minute of NBA competition and 10th of the game in helping the Los Angeles Lakers beat Sacramento 113-100. James, who passed Abdul-Jabbar for the NBA all-time scoring record earlier this year, scored 19 points while Austin Reaves had 25 points and Anthony Davis added 21 points and 20 rebounds. "It's just a commitment to the craft and to the passion and love I have for the game," James said. "I don't take much time in the off-season, a little bit more time now." French star Victor Wembanyama scored 42 points to power the San Antonio Spurs to a 133-126 overtime triumph over visiting Atlanta. De'Andre Hunter, who led the Hawks with 27 points off the bench, slammed in a dunk with 11 seconds remaining to lift Atlanta level at 120-120 and force the overtime, in which Wemby had a dunk and two 3-pointers to outscore Atlanta on his own. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 35 points to spark the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder to a 105-99 triumph at Orlando. Anthony Black led the Magic with 23 points off the bench. Memphis routed the visiting Golden State Warriors 144-93 but lost guard Ja Morant to back soreness following a fall after playing just 17 minutes. Spanish forward Santi Aldama had 21 points and 14 rebounds off the bench to lead the Grizzlies, who made a club-record 27 3-pointers in 48 attempts, Aldama and Luke Kennard each hitting five to lead the way. Also read: Tottenham Hotspur survive Man Utd comeback to reach League Cup semi-finals - Towns wins in return - New York's Karl-Anthony Towns, given an ovation by fans on his return from Minnesota after being traded away, scored 32 points and grabbed 20 rebounds to spark the Knicks over the host Timberwolves 133-107. "I'm just happy I was able to have the game I had," Towns said. "I'm just happy our team could get a win. I called this place home for nine seasons. This place means a lot to me... I didn't want to let my emotions overcome the game. I wasn't playing for myself. I was playing for the win." At Houston, Jalen Green scored 34 points and Dillon Brooks added 26 to lead the host Rockets over New Orleans 133-113. At Dallas, Norman Powell scored 29 points and James Harden added 24 to spark the Los Angeles Clippers over the host Mavericks 118-95. At Indianapolis, Pascal Siakam had 25 points and 18 rebounds to lead the Indiana Pacers over Phoenix 120-111 despite a 37-point performance by Kevin Durant in a losing cause. At Portland, Anfernee Simons scored 28 points and made a layup at the buzzer to give the host Trail Blazers a 126-124 victory over Denver despite 34 points by Nikola Jokic for the Nuggets. Brooklyn's Cameron Johnson had 33 points, 10 rebounds and six assists to pace the Nets in a 101-94 victory at Toronto. Utah's Collin Sexton scored 30 points and Keyonte George added 28 to lead the Jazz to a 126-119 victory at Detroit. Jordan Poole scored 27 points and reserve Malcolm Brogdon added 25 to lead the Washington Wizards over visiting Charlotte 123-114. LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with 34 points. 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.

Chicago Bulls stun Boston Celtics 117-108, LeBron James sets NBA minutes-played record

New Delhi, India 
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Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process.
Amidst concerns over the rising rates of cancer and dementia, this study is the light at the end of the tunnel. It further shows that today's elderly population faces more intense levels of physical and mental balance than the previous generations did at the same age.
<h2>Research highlights </h2>
According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier.
John Beard, a professor of ageing at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, said, “We were surprised by just how large these improvements were, particularly when comparing people born after World War Two with earlier-born groups.”
The researchers observed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, noting those born between 1920 and 1959, aged 65 to 104 today. They measured “cognitive, locomotor, psychological, and sensory capacities” rather than specific diseases.
<h2>Globally shining 'through'</h2>
The health improvements are a result of education, good nutrition, better sanitation, and advancement in medical treatments like for high blood pressure and joint replacement.
At a global level, these findings resonate well. An analysis using data from the China Health and Retirement Study said, “Our research suggests there have been significant improvements in functioning in more recent cohorts of older people in both England and China.”
Professor Jay Olshansky of the University of Illinois, who wasn’t part of the study, described it as powerful. "It’s an optimistic message for the future.”
Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/drastic-signs-of-ageing-show-up-twice-in-a-lifetime-once-around-44-and-then-at-777696">Drastic signs of ageing show up twice in a lifetime. Once around 44, and then at...</a>
<h2>Risk warnings</h2>
Though the findings are good, Beard warned against believing that the trend will continue.
“There is nothing to say we will continue to see the same improvements moving forward,” he warned.
Factors like increasing obesity could even reverse these trends.
Watch | The Curious Case Of The Prematurely Ageing Space Heart
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<h2>Optimistic conclusion</h2>
The research ends with a hopeful note.
“Increasing life expectancy is being accompanied by large increases in health expectancy among more recent cohorts. This has positive implications for all of us, both as individuals and for society more broadly.”
For many individuals, it looks like 70 no longer is about slowing down but rather enjoying life with the high-spiritedness of someone much younger.
(With inputs from agencies)

According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier.



New Delhi, India Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process. Amidst concerns over the rising rates of cancer and dementia, this study is the light at the end of the tunnel. It further shows that today's elderly population faces more intense levels of physical and mental balance than the previous generations did at the same age. Research highlights According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier. John Beard, a professor of ageing at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, said, “We were surprised by just how large these improvements were, particularly when comparing people born after World War Two with earlier-born groups.” The researchers observed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, noting those born between 1920 and 1959, aged 65 to 104 today. They measured “cognitive, locomotor, psychological, and sensory capacities” rather than specific diseases. Globally shining 'through' The health improvements are a result of education, good nutrition, better sanitation, and advancement in medical treatments like for high blood pressure and joint replacement. At a global level, these findings resonate well. An analysis using data from the China Health and Retirement Study said, “Our research suggests there have been significant improvements in functioning in more recent cohorts of older people in both England and China.” Professor Jay Olshansky of the University of Illinois, who wasn’t part of the study, described it as powerful. "It’s an optimistic message for the future.” Read More: Drastic signs of ageing show up twice in a lifetime. Once around 44, and then at... Risk warnings Though the findings are good, Beard warned against believing that the trend will continue. “There is nothing to say we will continue to see the same improvements moving forward,” he warned. Factors like increasing obesity could even reverse these trends. Watch | The Curious Case Of The Prematurely Ageing Space Heart Optimistic conclusion The research ends with a hopeful note. “Increasing life expectancy is being accompanied by large increases in health expectancy among more recent cohorts. This has positive implications for all of us, both as individuals and for society more broadly.” For many individuals, it looks like 70 no longer is about slowing down but rather enjoying life with the high-spiritedness of someone much younger. (With inputs from agencies)

Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because...

New Delhi, India
American premium cable network HBO has given a second season order for "Dune: Prophecy", the prequel series to Denis Villeneuve's blockbuster “Dune” movies.
Also featuring Bollywood star Tabu in a pivotal role, the six-episode series is set 10,000 years before the events of Frank Herbert's seminal novel “Dune”, which was recently adapted by Villeneuve in two parts.
The show's renewal for season two comes ahead of the premiere of the final episode, which will air on HBO on December 22. The show streams on JioCinema in India.
"'Dune: Prophecy' has captivated audiences around the globe thanks to the visionary leadership of showrunner and executive producer Alison Schapker, who will continue to guide this grand tale of truth and power.
"We are incredibly grateful to our partners at Legendary and to our extraordinary cast and crew for their service to the Imperium. We're excited to collaborate with this team again to see what they have in store," Sarah Aubrey, Head of Max Original Programming, said in a statement.
“Dune: Prophecy” promises a rich narrative filled with intrigue and power struggles within the “Dune” universe.
The show features an ensemble cast of Emily Watson, Olivia Williams, Travis Fimmel, Jodhi May, Mark Strong, Sarah-Sofie Boussnina, Josh Heuston, Chloe Lea, Jade Anouka, Faoileann Cunningham, Edward Davis, Aoife Hinds, Chris Mason, Shalom Brune-Franklin, Camilla Beeput, Jihae, Charithra Chandran, Jessica Barden, Emma Canning, and Yerin Ha.
As per official logline, the show follows two Harkonnen sisters as they combat forces that threaten the future of humankind, and establish the fabled sect that will become known as the Bene Gesserit.
Dune: Prophecy is based on the novel ”Sisterhood of Dune” by Brian Herbert and Kevin J Anderson.
In the show, Tabu plays the role of Sister Francesca, described as a ”strong, intelligent, and alluring” character, who leaves a lasting impression in her wake.
“Once a great love of the Emperor, her return to the palace strains the balance of power in the capital,” the character description read.
Alison Schapker is the showrunner and executive producer with Diane Ademu-John, who co-developed the series. It is co-produced by HBO and Legendary Television.
(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.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.)

Dune: Prophecy is based on the novel ”Sisterhood of Dune” by Brian Herbert and Kevin J Anderson.



New Delhi, India American premium cable network HBO has given a second season order for "Dune: Prophecy", the prequel series to Denis Villeneuve's blockbuster “Dune” movies. Also featuring Bollywood star Tabu in a pivotal role, the six-episode series is set 10,000 years before the events of Frank Herbert's seminal novel “Dune”, which was recently adapted by Villeneuve in two parts. The show's renewal for season two comes ahead of the premiere of the final episode, which will air on HBO on December 22. The show streams on JioCinema in India. "'Dune: Prophecy' has captivated audiences around the globe thanks to the visionary leadership of showrunner and executive producer Alison Schapker, who will continue to guide this grand tale of truth and power. "We are incredibly grateful to our partners at Legendary and to our extraordinary cast and crew for their service to the Imperium. We're excited to collaborate with this team again to see what they have in store," Sarah Aubrey, Head of Max Original Programming, said in a statement. “Dune: Prophecy” promises a rich narrative filled with intrigue and power struggles within the “Dune” universe. The show features an ensemble cast of Emily Watson, Olivia Williams, Travis Fimmel, Jodhi May, Mark Strong, Sarah-Sofie Boussnina, Josh Heuston, Chloe Lea, Jade Anouka, Faoileann Cunningham, Edward Davis, Aoife Hinds, Chris Mason, Shalom Brune-Franklin, Camilla Beeput, Jihae, Charithra Chandran, Jessica Barden, Emma Canning, and Yerin Ha. As per official logline, the show follows two Harkonnen sisters as they combat forces that threaten the future of humankind, and establish the fabled sect that will become known as the Bene Gesserit. Dune: Prophecy is based on the novel ”Sisterhood of Dune” by Brian Herbert and Kevin J Anderson. In the show, Tabu plays the role of Sister Francesca, described as a ”strong, intelligent, and alluring” character, who leaves a lasting impression in her wake. “Once a great love of the Emperor, her return to the palace strains the balance of power in the capital,” the character description read. Alison Schapker is the showrunner and executive producer with Diane Ademu-John, who co-developed the series. It is co-produced by HBO and Legendary Television. (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.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.)

Dune: Prophecy renewed for season 2 at HBO days ahead of season 1 finale

Harare, Zimbabawe
ZIM vs AFG 3rd ODI Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: Afghanistan will look to earn a statement series win against Zimbabwe as they play the hosts in the third ODI on Saturday (Dec 21). With the Champions Trophy now less than two months away, Afghanistan will see at the series as perfect warm-up while Zimbabawe will search for redemption having lost the T20I series earlier. Ahead of the third ODI contest between hosts Zimbabwe and Afghanistan, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads and others.
<h2>When is the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match?</h2>
The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will be played on Saturday (Dec 21).
<h2>Which stadium will host the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match?</h2>
The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will be played at the Harare Sports Club in Harare.
<h2>What time will the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match start?</h2>
The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will start at 1:00 PM local time (4:30 PM IST) with toss taking place at 12:30 PM local time (4:00 PM IST).
<h2>Where to watch the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match on TV?</h2>
The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will not be telecast in India.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/heres-how-india-australia-and-other-teams-can-reach-world-test-championship-final-782873">Here's how India, Australia and other teams can reach World Test Championship final</a>
<h2>Where to watch the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI LIVE Streaming online on OTT?</h2>
The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will be live-streamed on the FanCode App and website in India.
<h2>Squads:</h2>
Zimbabwe: Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, Craig Ervine (c), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Tinotenda Maposa, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava, Trevor Gwandu, Blessing Muzarabani, Joylord Gumbie, Wellington Masakadza, Tashinga Musekiwa, Victor Nyauchi
Afghanistan: Sediqullah Atal, Abdul Malik, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Rashid Khan, Naveed Zadran, AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Darwish Rasooli, Gulbadin Naib, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Mohammad Ishaq, Bilal Sami, Nangeyalia Kharote

With the Champions Trophy now less than two months away, Afghanistan will see at the series as perfect warm-up while Zimbabawe will search for redemption having lost the T20I series earlier. Ahead of the third ODI contest between hosts Zimbabwe and Afghanistan, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads and others.



Harare, Zimbabawe ZIM vs AFG 3rd ODI Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: Afghanistan will look to earn a statement series win against Zimbabwe as they play the hosts in the third ODI on Saturday (Dec 21). With the Champions Trophy now less than two months away, Afghanistan will see at the series as perfect warm-up while Zimbabawe will search for redemption having lost the T20I series earlier. Ahead of the third ODI contest between hosts Zimbabwe and Afghanistan, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads and others. When is the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match? The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will be played on Saturday (Dec 21). Which stadium will host the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match? The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will be played at the Harare Sports Club in Harare. What time will the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match start? The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will start at 1:00 PM local time (4:30 PM IST) with toss taking place at 12:30 PM local time (4:00 PM IST). Where to watch the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match on TV? The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will not be telecast in India. ALSO READ | Here's how India, Australia and other teams can reach World Test Championship final Where to watch the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI LIVE Streaming online on OTT? The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI match will be live-streamed on the FanCode App and website in India. Squads: Zimbabwe: Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, Craig Ervine (c), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Tinotenda Maposa, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava, Trevor Gwandu, Blessing Muzarabani, Joylord Gumbie, Wellington Masakadza, Tashinga Musekiwa, Victor Nyauchi Afghanistan: Sediqullah Atal, Abdul Malik, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Rashid Khan, Naveed Zadran, AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Darwish Rasooli, Gulbadin Naib, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Mohammad Ishaq, Bilal Sami, Nangeyalia Kharote

ZIM vs AFG 3rd ODI live streaming: When & where to watch Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan live on laptop, TV

Ottawa, Canada
Canada's embattled Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will announce a major cabinet shuffle on Friday, government sources told AFP, days after the surprise resignation of his longtime number two shocked the nation.
It will be a "significant shakeup," one source said. Chrystia Freeland, after nearly a decade at Trudeau's side, announced on Monday she was quitting her dual roles as deputy prime minister and finance minister after disagreeing with her boss over US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats.

The move marked the first open dissent against Trudeau from within his cabinet and has emboldened critics.
As many as a dozen new ministers could be appointed to replace those in the current 35-member cabinet who have signaled they will not seek re-election in 2025 and to relieve others of their double or triple duties in government.
Freeland said she would seek re-election next year.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pm-justin-trudeau-tries-to-downplay-freelands-resignation-challenge-to-leadership-as-family-spat-784898">Canada PM Justin Trudeau tries to downplay Freeland's resignation, challenge to leadership as 'family' spat</a>

Dominic LeBlanc, the public safety minister, has already been sworn in as the new finance minister and took over the reins from Freeland on negotiating with the incoming Trump administration.
He is expected to give up the public safety portfolio in Friday's shuffle.
Anita Anand, who is both the Treasury Board president and transport minister, and Ginette Petitpas Taylor, who has been juggling three jobs, are likely to also see their loads lightened.
On Monday, the housing minister announced he was quitting politics after six others said in recent months they would not be seeking reelection.
Watch | Canada News: Trudeau Faces Calls To Resign
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Asked at a news conference Thursday if Trudeau still has the confidence of his team amid a growing revolt by backbenchers, LeBlanc said, "Yes."
As much as one-third of Trudeau's caucus has been urging him to resign and make way for a fresh face to lead the Liberals into the next election, which is scheduled for October 2025 but expected sooner.
In public opinion polls, Trudeau trails by 20 points his main rival, Conservative Pierre Poilievre, who has tried three times since September to topple the government.
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.

After nearly a decade at Trudeau's side, announced on Monday she was quitting her dual roles as deputy prime minister and finance minister after disagreeing with her boss over US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats.



Ottawa, Canada Canada's embattled Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will announce a major cabinet shuffle on Friday, government sources told AFP, days after the surprise resignation of his longtime number two shocked the nation. It will be a "significant shakeup," one source said. Chrystia Freeland, after nearly a decade at Trudeau's side, announced on Monday she was quitting her dual roles as deputy prime minister and finance minister after disagreeing with her boss over US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats. The move marked the first open dissent against Trudeau from within his cabinet and has emboldened critics. As many as a dozen new ministers could be appointed to replace those in the current 35-member cabinet who have signaled they will not seek re-election in 2025 and to relieve others of their double or triple duties in government. Freeland said she would seek re-election next year. Also Read: Canada PM Justin Trudeau tries to downplay Freeland's resignation, challenge to leadership as 'family' spat Dominic LeBlanc, the public safety minister, has already been sworn in as the new finance minister and took over the reins from Freeland on negotiating with the incoming Trump administration. He is expected to give up the public safety portfolio in Friday's shuffle. Anita Anand, who is both the Treasury Board president and transport minister, and Ginette Petitpas Taylor, who has been juggling three jobs, are likely to also see their loads lightened. On Monday, the housing minister announced he was quitting politics after six others said in recent months they would not be seeking reelection. Watch | Canada News: Trudeau Faces Calls To Resign Asked at a news conference Thursday if Trudeau still has the confidence of his team amid a growing revolt by backbenchers, LeBlanc said, "Yes." As much as one-third of Trudeau's caucus has been urging him to resign and make way for a fresh face to lead the Liberals into the next election, which is scheduled for October 2025 but expected sooner. In public opinion polls, Trudeau trails by 20 points his main rival, Conservative Pierre Poilievre, who has tried three times since September to topple the government. 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.

Canada's Trudeau to reshuffle cabinet amid political turmoil

New Delhi, India
A major accident happened on India's Jaipur-Ajmer highway on Friday (Dec 20) when a goods truck and an LPG tanker collided, killing at least five people.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea of possibly sending Western troops to Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, appeared in a Manhattan federal court facing charges that include murder and stalking. 
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-five-dead-dozens-injured-in-jaipur-after-collision-between-truck-lng-tanker-785454">Video: Five dead, dozens injured in Jaipur after collision between truck, LNG tanker</a>
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At least five people were killed and dozens injured in Jaipur city of the northern Indian state of Rajasthan on Friday (Dec 20) following a collision between a goods truck and an LPG tanker. The incident happened on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway, causing a major fire incident at a fuel pump in the Bhankrota area.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com//world/zelensky-voices-support-for-western-troop-deployment-in-ukraine-says-we-need-effective-mechanisms-785458">Zelensky voices support for western troop deployment in Ukraine, says we need 'effective mechanisms'</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/20/472203-new-wion-2024-12-20t094635373.jpg"/>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luigi-mangione-appears-in-new-york-court-faces-federal-murder-charges-in-unitedhealthcare-ceo-shooting-785426">Luigi Mangione appears in New York court, faces federal murder charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting</a>
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Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the December 4 shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, appeared in a Manhattan federal court Thursday (Dec 20), facing charges that include murder, stalking, and firearms offences. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-rejects-republican-funding-bill-government-shutdown-looms-785424">US house rejects Trump-backed Republican funding bill, government shutdown looms</a>
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The US House of Representatives on Thursday (Dec 19) rejected a Republican-led funding bill with overwhelming numbers. This rejection increases the likelihood of a government shutdown as federal agencies run out of cash and begin closing down starting the weekend. 
Watch | Israel War: 9 Civilians Killed in IDF Strike, Says Yemen's Houthi
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Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief.



New Delhi, India A major accident happened on India's Jaipur-Ajmer highway on Friday (Dec 20) when a goods truck and an LPG tanker collided, killing at least five people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea of possibly sending Western troops to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, appeared in a Manhattan federal court facing charges that include murder and stalking. Click on the headlines for more Video: Five dead, dozens injured in Jaipur after collision between truck, LNG tanker At least five people were killed and dozens injured in Jaipur city of the northern Indian state of Rajasthan on Friday (Dec 20) following a collision between a goods truck and an LPG tanker. The incident happened on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway, causing a major fire incident at a fuel pump in the Bhankrota area. Zelensky voices support for western troop deployment in Ukraine, says we need 'effective mechanisms' Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out. Luigi Mangione appears in New York court, faces federal murder charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the December 4 shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, appeared in a Manhattan federal court Thursday (Dec 20), facing charges that include murder, stalking, and firearms offences. US house rejects Trump-backed Republican funding bill, government shutdown looms The US House of Representatives on Thursday (Dec 19) rejected a Republican-led funding bill with overwhelming numbers. This rejection increases the likelihood of a government shutdown as federal agencies run out of cash and begin closing down starting the weekend. Watch | Israel War: 9 Civilians Killed in IDF Strike, Says Yemen's Houthi

Morning news brief: Jaipur truck collision kills five; Zelensky backs EU troop deployment idea, and more

Melbourne, Australia
Former Australia head coach Justin Langer has heaped praise on Jasprit Bumrah as he continues to impress in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Down Under. Bumrah has been in centre of India’s success so far, helping them with both ball and bat at times. The pacer was named Player of the Match in Perth for his match-winning performance and is the leading wicket-taker in the series, with 21 scalps.
<h2>Langer in awe of Bumrah</h2>
“I would hate to face him. He is like Wasim Akram. For me, he is a right-hand version of Wasim Akram, and every time I am asked the question ‘Who is the best bowler you have ever faced’, I say, Wasim Akram," Justin Langer told The Nightly on Thursday (Dec 19).
So far in the series, Bumrah has been the most reliable asset for India with 21 wickets and few cameos with the bat.
In the opening Test in Perth, Bumrah scalped eight wickets, helping the side clinch a record-breaking 295-run win. Interestingly, he was also the captain of the side in Perth with Rohit Sharma out on paternity leave.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-nathan-mcsweeney-likely-to-be-axed-from-boxing-day-test-sam-konstas-in-frame-for-australia-785445">BGT 2024/25: Nathan McSweeney axed from Boxing Day Test; Sam Konstas roped in for Australia</a>
With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final spot up for grabs, Bumrah will have to roll in his sleeves to help India reach the summit clash. India currently sit third in the WTC standings and will need to win at least one or if not two matches to guarantee a spot in the summit clash.
<h2>India look to continue impressive run at MCG</h2>
With the Boxing Day Test starting on December 26, India will look to continue their impressive run at the venue. Australia have not beaten India since December 2011, when Michael Clarke’s side got the better of MS Dhoni’s side. In 2014, the Boxing Day Test ended in a draw while India won the same in 2018 and 2020 under the captaincy of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively.
(Inputs from Agencies)

So far in the series, Jasprit Bumrah has been the most reliable asset for India with 21 wickets and few cameos with the bat. In the opening Test in Perth, Bumrah scalped eight wickets, helping the side clinch a record-breaking 295-run win. Interestingly, he was also the captain of the side in Perth with Rohit Sharma out on paternity leave



Melbourne, Australia Former Australia head coach Justin Langer has heaped praise on Jasprit Bumrah as he continues to impress in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Down Under. Bumrah has been in centre of India’s success so far, helping them with both ball and bat at times. The pacer was named Player of the Match in Perth for his match-winning performance and is the leading wicket-taker in the series, with 21 scalps. Langer in awe of Bumrah “I would hate to face him. He is like Wasim Akram. For me, he is a right-hand version of Wasim Akram, and every time I am asked the question ‘Who is the best bowler you have ever faced’, I say, Wasim Akram," Justin Langer told The Nightly on Thursday (Dec 19). So far in the series, Bumrah has been the most reliable asset for India with 21 wickets and few cameos with the bat. In the opening Test in Perth, Bumrah scalped eight wickets, helping the side clinch a record-breaking 295-run win. Interestingly, he was also the captain of the side in Perth with Rohit Sharma out on paternity leave. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Nathan McSweeney axed from Boxing Day Test; Sam Konstas roped in for Australia With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final spot up for grabs, Bumrah will have to roll in his sleeves to help India reach the summit clash. India currently sit third in the WTC standings and will need to win at least one or if not two matches to guarantee a spot in the summit clash. India look to continue impressive run at MCG With the Boxing Day Test starting on December 26, India will look to continue their impressive run at the venue. Australia have not beaten India since December 2011, when Michael Clarke’s side got the better of MS Dhoni’s side. In 2014, the Boxing Day Test ended in a draw while India won the same in 2018 and 2020 under the captaincy of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. (Inputs from Agencies)

BGT 2024/25: Former Australia coach in awe of Jasprit Bumrah, compares him with Pakistan great Wasim Akram

Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Jaker Ali's blistering unbeaten 72 highlighted a dominant Bangladesh effort as the visitors thrashed the West Indies by 80 runs in the third and final T20 International to sweep the series 3-0 at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent on Thursday.
Benefiting from a huge reprieve when he thought he had been run out on 18, the attacking right-hander took heavy toll of an uninspired Caribbean team, belting six sixes and three fours off just 41 balls to pace his side to a challenging 189 for seven after skipper Litton Das opted to bat first.
Beaten in the first two low-scoring matches at the same venue, the West Indies were never in the hunt for a consolation victory after losing Brandon King to the second delivery of their reply and were eventually bundled out for 109 off 16.4 overs.
All-rounder Romario Shepherd top-scored with 33.
Wrist-spinner Rishad Hossain led the rout with three for 21 while there were two wickets each for fellow spinner Mahedi Hasan, the "Man of the Series," and seamer Taskin Ahmed, who had the distinction of starting the slide when the trapped King leg-before and then sealed victory by bowling local hero Obed McCoy.
Debutant opener Parvez Hossain Emon, playing in the absence of the injured Soumya Sarkar, set the tone for the Bangladesh innings with 39 off 21 balls before "Man of the Match" Jaker took over the show with a display typical of his uninhibited batting style.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-josh-hazlewood-frustrated-with-random-side-strain-for-missing-melbourne-sydney-tests-785414">BGT - Josh Hazlewood ‘frustrated’ with ‘random side strain’ for missing Melbourne, Sydney Tests</a>
However, it could all have been very different had the on-field run out decision against him stood following a terrible mix-up with Shamim Hossain. A fuming Jaker, believing that a second run was always on, could not disguise his rage when Shamim opted to return to the striker's end and bowler Roston Chase effected the dismissal.
Yet even as he continued to vent his frustration in the dressing room, television replays showed he had made his ground at the striker's end just before his partner returned to safety, meaning that Shamim was the man eventually on his way back to the pavilion.
All was forgiven at the end of the innings, though, as Shamim was first to embrace his teammate after his power-hitting drained any enthusiasm left in a deflated West Indies side.
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.

Benefiting from a huge reprieve when he thought he had been run out on 18, the attacking right-hander took heavy toll of an uninspired Caribbean team, belting six sixes and three fours off just 41 balls to pace his side to a challenging 189 for seven after skipper Litton Das opted to bat first.



Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Jaker Ali's blistering unbeaten 72 highlighted a dominant Bangladesh effort as the visitors thrashed the West Indies by 80 runs in the third and final T20 International to sweep the series 3-0 at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent on Thursday. Benefiting from a huge reprieve when he thought he had been run out on 18, the attacking right-hander took heavy toll of an uninspired Caribbean team, belting six sixes and three fours off just 41 balls to pace his side to a challenging 189 for seven after skipper Litton Das opted to bat first. Beaten in the first two low-scoring matches at the same venue, the West Indies were never in the hunt for a consolation victory after losing Brandon King to the second delivery of their reply and were eventually bundled out for 109 off 16.4 overs. All-rounder Romario Shepherd top-scored with 33. Wrist-spinner Rishad Hossain led the rout with three for 21 while there were two wickets each for fellow spinner Mahedi Hasan, the "Man of the Series," and seamer Taskin Ahmed, who had the distinction of starting the slide when the trapped King leg-before and then sealed victory by bowling local hero Obed McCoy. Debutant opener Parvez Hossain Emon, playing in the absence of the injured Soumya Sarkar, set the tone for the Bangladesh innings with 39 off 21 balls before "Man of the Match" Jaker took over the show with a display typical of his uninhibited batting style. ALSO READ | BGT - Josh Hazlewood ‘frustrated’ with ‘random side strain’ for missing Melbourne, Sydney Tests However, it could all have been very different had the on-field run out decision against him stood following a terrible mix-up with Shamim Hossain. A fuming Jaker, believing that a second run was always on, could not disguise his rage when Shamim opted to return to the striker's end and bowler Roston Chase effected the dismissal. Yet even as he continued to vent his frustration in the dressing room, television replays showed he had made his ground at the striker's end just before his partner returned to safety, meaning that Shamim was the man eventually on his way back to the pavilion. All was forgiven at the end of the innings, though, as Shamim was first to embrace his teammate after his power-hitting drained any enthusiasm left in a deflated West Indies side. 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.

WI vs BAN: Bangladesh complete whitewash after 80-run win in third T20I against West Indies

Cape Town, South Africa
Pakistan veterans Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan laid the foundation for a convincing, series-clinching 81-run win over South Africa in the second one-day international at Newlands on Thursday.
Pakistan's total of 329 all out was set up by Babar (73) and captain Rizwan (80), who put on 115 off 142 balls for the third wicket.
Heinrich Klaasen made 97 for South Africa but the hosts were bowled out for 248.
Fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi (four for 47) and Naseem Shah (three for 37) were the main destroyers.
The win gave Pakistan an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. 
It was their fifth successive series win – and the third for the Champions Trophy hosts in the southern hemisphere season, following victories in Australia and Zimbabwe.
"It's a team game, from beginning to end all of the guys are involved and contributing," said Rizwan.  
Babar and Rizwan, whose combined 204 one-day caps exceeded the total of the rest of the team, batted soundly and sensibly before Babar was out with the total on 192 in the 33rd over.
Rizwan followed three overs later to a sensational diving catch off his own bowling by 18-year-old one-day debutant Kwena Maphaka.
But the stage had been set for some power hitting by the batsmen who followed, notably player of the match Kamran Ghulam, who hit five sixes in making 63 off 32 balls.
With a licence to go for their shots, Pakistan scored 161 runs in the last 17 overs while losing their remaining six wickets.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-josh-hazlewood-frustrated-with-random-side-strain-for-missing-melbourne-sydney-tests-785414">BGT - Josh Hazlewood ‘frustrated’ with ‘random side strain’ for missing Melbourne, Sydney Tests</a>
"Me and Babar started slowly. We were looking for 300 but we got 320-plus. I have never seen Kamran Ghulam play an innings like that," said Rizwan.
Left-arm fast-bowler Maphaka took heavy punishment but picked up four wickets while conceding 72 runs.
South Africa scored more briskly than Pakistan for most of their innings but although all of their first six batsmen made starts, only Klaasen made a significant score.
Klaasen, who made 86 in a losing cause in the first match in Paarl on Tuesday, hit eight fours and four sixes off 74 balls. He was the last man out, caught on the deep midwicket boundary. 
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.

Pakistan's total of 329 all out was set up by Babar (73) and captain Rizwan (80), who put on 115 off 142 balls for the third wicket.



Cape Town, South Africa Pakistan veterans Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan laid the foundation for a convincing, series-clinching 81-run win over South Africa in the second one-day international at Newlands on Thursday. Pakistan's total of 329 all out was set up by Babar (73) and captain Rizwan (80), who put on 115 off 142 balls for the third wicket. Heinrich Klaasen made 97 for South Africa but the hosts were bowled out for 248. Fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi (four for 47) and Naseem Shah (three for 37) were the main destroyers. The win gave Pakistan an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. It was their fifth successive series win – and the third for the Champions Trophy hosts in the southern hemisphere season, following victories in Australia and Zimbabwe. "It's a team game, from beginning to end all of the guys are involved and contributing," said Rizwan. Babar and Rizwan, whose combined 204 one-day caps exceeded the total of the rest of the team, batted soundly and sensibly before Babar was out with the total on 192 in the 33rd over. Rizwan followed three overs later to a sensational diving catch off his own bowling by 18-year-old one-day debutant Kwena Maphaka. But the stage had been set for some power hitting by the batsmen who followed, notably player of the match Kamran Ghulam, who hit five sixes in making 63 off 32 balls. With a licence to go for their shots, Pakistan scored 161 runs in the last 17 overs while losing their remaining six wickets. ALSO READ | BGT - Josh Hazlewood ‘frustrated’ with ‘random side strain’ for missing Melbourne, Sydney Tests "Me and Babar started slowly. We were looking for 300 but we got 320-plus. I have never seen Kamran Ghulam play an innings like that," said Rizwan. Left-arm fast-bowler Maphaka took heavy punishment but picked up four wickets while conceding 72 runs. South Africa scored more briskly than Pakistan for most of their innings but although all of their first six batsmen made starts, only Klaasen made a significant score. Klaasen, who made 86 in a losing cause in the first match in Paarl on Tuesday, hit eight fours and four sixes off 74 balls. He was the last man out, caught on the deep midwicket boundary. 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.

SA vs PAK: Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam steer Pakistan to ODI series win over South Africa

London, United Kingdom
Tottenham survived two calamitous errors from stand-in goalkeeper Fraser Forster on Thursday to beat Manchester United 4-3 and set up a League Cup semi-final against Liverpool, staying on track for their first trophy since 2008.
The home side were cruising at 3-0 in the 54th minute of a captivating tie in London after two goals from Dominic Solanke and one from Dejan Kulusevski.
But Forster's mistakes allowed substitutes Joshua Zirkzee and Amad Diallo to pull the score back to 3-2 with 20 minutes to go.
It was one-way traffic after that, with United totally on top, but Spurs scored a fourth as Son Heung-min found the net from a corner and they held on despite a late Jonny Evans goal.
Tottenham will face Premier League leaders Liverpool in the two-legged semi-finals, with Arsenal taking on Newcastle.
Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou said his injury-hit team inflicted pain on themselves but gave a passionate defence of his gung-ho approach.
"It should have been a lot more comfortable there, but having said that, I still can't get away from the fact that this group of players have done an unbelievable job at the moment to get us through this," he said.
The Australian added: "I know people will say, "Well, don't take any risks' and all that sort of stuff, but we wouldn't be scoring four goals and five goals.
"It's the hardest thing in the game to do, score goals, and we're doing it with bare bones."
Tottenham, 10th in the Premier League, have not won silverware for 16 years, when they lifted the League Cup under Juande Ramos.
But they are now just one stage away from a Wembley final in March, with Postecoglou still on track to deliver on his bold statement that he always wins a trophy in his second season at a club.
New United boss Ruben Amorim is back down to earth with a bump after his side's dramatic 2-1 Premier League win at Manchester City on Sunday.
Amorim made five changes from the team that beat City while Spurs had six academy players on their bench.
Marcus Rashford was left out of United's squad for the second consecutive game but Alejandro Garnacho, also absent on Sunday, was on the bench and came on as a second-half substitute.
<h2>Solanke double</h2>
Tottenham opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Solanke reacted quickest after United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, in for Andre Onana, parried a shot from distance into his path.
Kulusevski doubled Tottenham's lead moments after the restart, finishing unerringly when Lisandro Martinez failed to deal with a James Maddison cut-back, only succeeding in diverting the ball into the Sweden international's path.
Spurs were 3-0 up when Solanke ran onto a long ball over the top, drifting inside Martinez and Evans and finishing with confidence.
But control turned to chaos just after the hour mark following some incredible goalkeeping errors from Forster, deputising for the injured Guglielmo Vicario.
Forster, being closed down by Zirkzee, passed straight to Bruno Fernandes, whose ball found Zirkzee and the Dutchman slotted the ball into an empty net in the 63rd minute.
Minutes later United scored again when Forster dithered after receiving a back pass.
Diallo closed him down in a flash and slid in as Forster tried to clear, with the ball hitting Diallo and ending up in the net.
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United had further chances but instead Son gave Tottenham a cushion in the 88th minute.
Even then United had time to find another, with Evans heading in from a corner, but they ran out of time.
"We were not the best team in all of the game, but most of the parts I think we were the best team," said Amorim.
"I think we disconnected for eight minutes. It was really hard to recover from that, but then the lads did a great job."
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.

The home side were cruising at 3-0 in the 54th minute of a captivating tie in London after two goals from Dominic Solanke and one from Dejan Kulusevski.



London, United Kingdom Tottenham survived two calamitous errors from stand-in goalkeeper Fraser Forster on Thursday to beat Manchester United 4-3 and set up a League Cup semi-final against Liverpool, staying on track for their first trophy since 2008. The home side were cruising at 3-0 in the 54th minute of a captivating tie in London after two goals from Dominic Solanke and one from Dejan Kulusevski. But Forster's mistakes allowed substitutes Joshua Zirkzee and Amad Diallo to pull the score back to 3-2 with 20 minutes to go. It was one-way traffic after that, with United totally on top, but Spurs scored a fourth as Son Heung-min found the net from a corner and they held on despite a late Jonny Evans goal. Tottenham will face Premier League leaders Liverpool in the two-legged semi-finals, with Arsenal taking on Newcastle. Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou said his injury-hit team inflicted pain on themselves but gave a passionate defence of his gung-ho approach. "It should have been a lot more comfortable there, but having said that, I still can't get away from the fact that this group of players have done an unbelievable job at the moment to get us through this," he said. The Australian added: "I know people will say, "Well, don't take any risks' and all that sort of stuff, but we wouldn't be scoring four goals and five goals. "It's the hardest thing in the game to do, score goals, and we're doing it with bare bones." Tottenham, 10th in the Premier League, have not won silverware for 16 years, when they lifted the League Cup under Juande Ramos. But they are now just one stage away from a Wembley final in March, with Postecoglou still on track to deliver on his bold statement that he always wins a trophy in his second season at a club. New United boss Ruben Amorim is back down to earth with a bump after his side's dramatic 2-1 Premier League win at Manchester City on Sunday. Amorim made five changes from the team that beat City while Spurs had six academy players on their bench. Marcus Rashford was left out of United's squad for the second consecutive game but Alejandro Garnacho, also absent on Sunday, was on the bench and came on as a second-half substitute. Solanke double Tottenham opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Solanke reacted quickest after United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, in for Andre Onana, parried a shot from distance into his path. Kulusevski doubled Tottenham's lead moments after the restart, finishing unerringly when Lisandro Martinez failed to deal with a James Maddison cut-back, only succeeding in diverting the ball into the Sweden international's path. Spurs were 3-0 up when Solanke ran onto a long ball over the top, drifting inside Martinez and Evans and finishing with confidence. But control turned to chaos just after the hour mark following some incredible goalkeeping errors from Forster, deputising for the injured Guglielmo Vicario. Forster, being closed down by Zirkzee, passed straight to Bruno Fernandes, whose ball found Zirkzee and the Dutchman slotted the ball into an empty net in the 63rd minute. Minutes later United scored again when Forster dithered after receiving a back pass. Diallo closed him down in a flash and slid in as Forster tried to clear, with the ball hitting Diallo and ending up in the net. ALSO READ | Mathias, French footballer Paul Pogba’s brother, sentenced in extortion case United had further chances but instead Son gave Tottenham a cushion in the 88th minute. Even then United had time to find another, with Evans heading in from a corner, but they ran out of time. "We were not the best team in all of the game, but most of the parts I think we were the best team," said Amorim. "I think we disconnected for eight minutes. It was really hard to recover from that, but then the lads did a great job." 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.

Tottenham Hotspur survive Man Utd comeback to reach League Cup semi-finals

Belo Horizonte
Lacador, a small bar in the Brazilian city of Belo Horizonte, has got its uptown funk on following a surprise visit by US pop hitmaker Bruno Mars.
"Bruno was here!" reads a proud sign in front of the modest establishment, which has turned Mars's November drop-in into a lucrative tourist draw.
Certainly, for the bar's owner, Ronaldo Teixeira, the unexpected appearance of the multi-Grammy-award winner on November 5 was something he will never forget.
"It was a Tuesday morning and we were at the door, just talking with friends, when a dark car pulled up and three big guys got out," Teixeira, 62, told AFP.
They asked if I had beer... and that's when Bruno then walked into my place," he said.
"The only thing Bruno said when he sat down, in rough Portuguese, was 'Call over the boys'."
The owner didn't hesitate. 
"I shouted to everyone, 'Come here guys! He's calling people in for a picture.' Then people arrived, we sat in the entrance and he started dancing in that way he has, so cool... It was sensational."
Mars later highlighted his bar visit on social media, quickly lending fame to Lacador (which is pronounced "lass-a-door" and means "lassoer" -- someone who throws a lasso), and to its owner.
Belo Horizonte, Brazil | AFP | Friday 12/20/2024 - 07:11 UTC+5 | 519 words
by Douglas MAGNO, with Facundo FERNANDEZ BARRIO in Sao Paulo
Lacador, a small bar in the Brazilian city of Belo Horizonte, has got its uptown funk on following a surprise visit by US pop hitmaker Bruno Mars.
"Bruno was here!" reads a proud sign in front of the modest establishment, which has turned Mars's November drop-in into a lucrative tourist draw.
Certainly, for the bar's owner, Ronaldo Teixeira, the unexpected appearance of the multi-Grammy-award winner on November 5 was something he will never forget.
"It was a Tuesday morning and we were at the door, just talking with friends, when a dark car pulled up and three big guys got out," Teixeira, 62, told AFP.
"They asked if I had beer... and that's when Bruno then walked into my place," he said.
"The only thing Bruno said when he sat down, in rough Portuguese, was 'Call over the boys'."
The owner didn't hesitate. 
"I shouted to everyone, 'Come here guys! He's calling people in for a picture.' Then people arrived, we sat in the entrance and he started dancing in that way he has, so cool... It was sensational."
Mars later highlighted his bar visit on social media, quickly lending fame to Lacador (which is pronounced "lass-a-door" and means "lassoer" -- someone who throws a lasso), and to its owner.
"It's as if I'm a pop star... this place has become a tourist spot, with new people always coming in, including from other cities, people of all ages who are fans of Bruno," said Teixeira.
- Untouched beer -
Even though Mars's entourage was thirsty, the 39-year-old singer himself did not open the can of beer he was served -- and which now has pride of place in the bar, as a memento of the momentous occasion.
On top of the booming trade, the bar has also had a makeover, with the company behind the beer's label capitalizing on the Mars aura by paying for a renovation.
The once nondescript bar now boasts a new refrigerator, tables and chairs, and a poster -- all of them printed with the likeness of Mars. There is also a large framed photo of Teixeira with the singer on the wall.
The American artist already has a history with Brazil, having performed there on tour four times -- the last in November, when he made his Belo Horizonte stop, in a venue just five kilometers (three miles) from the bar. 
In some of his shows, he spoke a little Portuguese, and on his last tour Mars was presented with an honorary Brazilian taxpayer's identity card in his name.
A Belo Horizonte bricklayer who lives next door to Lacador, Adilson Machado, said he was among those who met the star.
"When they said that 'Bruninho' ("little Bruno" as Mars is affectionately called in Brazil) was here, I shook his hand and he greeted everyone. He is a very humble person," he said.
Raphaela Resende, a social projects analyst living in the city, said: "It's great that an international celebrity has chosen a street that is not so well-known or central to have a beer."
Teixeira himself has adopted his body language to match the local legend growing up around his bar.
"Now, whenever I celebrate, it will be with 'Bruninho's' signature move, pointing to the sky -- to thank God for bringing him to my doorstep."
(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.)

Lacador, a small bar in the Brazilian city of Belo Horizonte, has got its uptown funk on following a surprise visit by US pop hitmaker Bruno Mars.



Belo Horizonte Lacador, a small bar in the Brazilian city of Belo Horizonte, has got its uptown funk on following a surprise visit by US pop hitmaker Bruno Mars. "Bruno was here!" reads a proud sign in front of the modest establishment, which has turned Mars's November drop-in into a lucrative tourist draw. Certainly, for the bar's owner, Ronaldo Teixeira, the unexpected appearance of the multi-Grammy-award winner on November 5 was something he will never forget. "It was a Tuesday morning and we were at the door, just talking with friends, when a dark car pulled up and three big guys got out," Teixeira, 62, told AFP. They asked if I had beer... and that's when Bruno then walked into my place," he said. "The only thing Bruno said when he sat down, in rough Portuguese, was 'Call over the boys'." The owner didn't hesitate. "I shouted to everyone, 'Come here guys! He's calling people in for a picture.' Then people arrived, we sat in the entrance and he started dancing in that way he has, so cool... It was sensational." Mars later highlighted his bar visit on social media, quickly lending fame to Lacador (which is pronounced "lass-a-door" and means "lassoer" -- someone who throws a lasso), and to its owner. Belo Horizonte, Brazil | AFP | Friday 12/20/2024 - 07:11 UTC+5 | 519 words by Douglas MAGNO, with Facundo FERNANDEZ BARRIO in Sao Paulo Lacador, a small bar in the Brazilian city of Belo Horizonte, has got its uptown funk on following a surprise visit by US pop hitmaker Bruno Mars. "Bruno was here!" reads a proud sign in front of the modest establishment, which has turned Mars's November drop-in into a lucrative tourist draw. Certainly, for the bar's owner, Ronaldo Teixeira, the unexpected appearance of the multi-Grammy-award winner on November 5 was something he will never forget. "It was a Tuesday morning and we were at the door, just talking with friends, when a dark car pulled up and three big guys got out," Teixeira, 62, told AFP. "They asked if I had beer... and that's when Bruno then walked into my place," he said. "The only thing Bruno said when he sat down, in rough Portuguese, was 'Call over the boys'." The owner didn't hesitate. "I shouted to everyone, 'Come here guys! He's calling people in for a picture.' Then people arrived, we sat in the entrance and he started dancing in that way he has, so cool... It was sensational." Mars later highlighted his bar visit on social media, quickly lending fame to Lacador (which is pronounced "lass-a-door" and means "lassoer" -- someone who throws a lasso), and to its owner. "It's as if I'm a pop star... this place has become a tourist spot, with new people always coming in, including from other cities, people of all ages who are fans of Bruno," said Teixeira. - Untouched beer - Even though Mars's entourage was thirsty, the 39-year-old singer himself did not open the can of beer he was served -- and which now has pride of place in the bar, as a memento of the momentous occasion. On top of the booming trade, the bar has also had a makeover, with the company behind the beer's label capitalizing on the Mars aura by paying for a renovation. The once nondescript bar now boasts a new refrigerator, tables and chairs, and a poster -- all of them printed with the likeness of Mars. There is also a large framed photo of Teixeira with the singer on the wall. The American artist already has a history with Brazil, having performed there on tour four times -- the last in November, when he made his Belo Horizonte stop, in a venue just five kilometers (three miles) from the bar. In some of his shows, he spoke a little Portuguese, and on his last tour Mars was presented with an honorary Brazilian taxpayer's identity card in his name. A Belo Horizonte bricklayer who lives next door to Lacador, Adilson Machado, said he was among those who met the star. "When they said that 'Bruninho' ("little Bruno" as Mars is affectionately called in Brazil) was here, I shook his hand and he greeted everyone. He is a very humble person," he said. Raphaela Resende, a social projects analyst living in the city, said: "It's great that an international celebrity has chosen a street that is not so well-known or central to have a beer." Teixeira himself has adopted his body language to match the local legend growing up around his bar. "Now, whenever I celebrate, it will be with 'Bruninho's' signature move, pointing to the sky -- to thank God for bringing him to my doorstep." (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.)

Brazil bar gets 24K Magic moment with Bruno Mars visit

New Delhi, India
It's time for a new Superman! After a much wait, the highly anticipated teaser trailer for Superman is finally here and it's all things exciting. Directed by James Gunn, the movie features David Corenswet as Clark Kent, aka Superman. 
The two-minute teaser takes us into the colourful world of Superman where he has to fight many battles. 
Superman teaser trailer:
The teaser trailer released on Thursday (Dec 19) stars David Corenswet as Man of Steel falling from the sky into the snow with blood wounds on his mouth. Further, we see Superman's alter ego, Clark Kent, who is a reporter for the newspaper The Daily Planet. 
Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), Kent's colleague, also makes an appearance. We also see a brief romance scene between Lois and Kent. Superman's arch nemesis, Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) makes a villainous appearance with a gun. 
However, the highlight of the trailer was Superman's dog Krypto. The only dialogue he says in the trailer is, "Krypto, take me home." 
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While Supes and his bond with his canine companion may warm your heart. But, that's not all. During the teaser premiere event in Los Angeles on Monday, Gunn told reporters, via EW, "He's not nearly the best dog as he seems. There's a lot more to Krypto than what you see in this trailer." Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner (Green Lantern) also appears in the teaser.
Earlier this week, Gunn shared the first poster of the upcoming movie featuring David as the Man of Steel.
Written and directed by Gunn, the movie boasts an impressive cast of actors: Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner the Green Lantern, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, and more.
Superman will be released in theatres on July 11, 2025.

Superman will hit the theatres on July 11. 



New Delhi, India It's time for a new Superman! After a much wait, the highly anticipated teaser trailer for Superman is finally here and it's all things exciting. Directed by James Gunn, the movie features David Corenswet as Clark Kent, aka Superman. The two-minute teaser takes us into the colourful world of Superman where he has to fight many battles. Superman teaser trailer: The teaser trailer released on Thursday (Dec 19) stars David Corenswet as Man of Steel falling from the sky into the snow with blood wounds on his mouth. Further, we see Superman's alter ego, Clark Kent, who is a reporter for the newspaper The Daily Planet. Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), Kent's colleague, also makes an appearance. We also see a brief romance scene between Lois and Kent. Superman's arch nemesis, Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) makes a villainous appearance with a gun. However, the highlight of the trailer was Superman's dog Krypto. The only dialogue he says in the trailer is, "Krypto, take me home." × While Supes and his bond with his canine companion may warm your heart. But, that's not all. During the teaser premiere event in Los Angeles on Monday, Gunn told reporters, via EW, "He's not nearly the best dog as he seems. There's a lot more to Krypto than what you see in this trailer." Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner (Green Lantern) also appears in the teaser. Earlier this week, Gunn shared the first poster of the upcoming movie featuring David as the Man of Steel. Written and directed by Gunn, the movie boasts an impressive cast of actors: Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner the Green Lantern, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, and more. Superman will be released in theatres on July 11, 2025.

Superman teaser: James Gunn gives his own spin and thrill to Clark Kent's story

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