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Los Angeles Wildfire: State Of Emergency Declared As 5 Dead In California
Los Angeles is grappling with the largest wildfire in its history, claiming at least five lives and forcing the evacuation of over 70,000 residents. High winds are driving multiple fires across areas such as Pacific Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst, leaving them uncontained and causing unprecedented destruction.
A state of emergency has been declared as the city faces severe water shortages and an overwhelmed firefighting capacity. Retired firefighters have been called back to assist, and federal aid is being dispatched to manage the crisis. Over 1,000 buildings have already been reduced to ashes, and a thick blanket of smoke covers the region.
Firefighters Struggling Against the Odds Hurricane-force winds have intensified
A state of emergency has been declared in the area, with Washington sending help to bring the situation under control. Retired firefighters with experience in firefighting, have been called for help.
the fires, creating fireballs that leap from house to house.
Embers carried by gusts ignite new spot fires faster than firefighters can respond.
Pacific Palisades, home to many celebrities, has been particularly hard-hit, with approximately 16,000 acres burned and 1,000 structures destroyed. Another major fire in Altadena, spanning 10,600 acres, has ravaged suburban streets.
Fire Chief Anthony Marrone admitted the scale of the disaster has left crews overwhelmed.
"We don't have enough personnel across LA County to handle this," he said. Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed
Germany and France warn Trump over threat to take over Greenland
Germany and France have warned Donald Trump against threatening Greenland, after the US presidentelect refused to rule out using military force to seize Denmark's autonomous territory.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said "the principle of the inviolability of borders applies to every country... no matter whether it's a very small one or a very powerful one".
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said "there is obviously no question that the European Union would let other nations of the world attack its sovereign borders".
On Tuesday, Trump reiterated his desire
to acquire Greenland, saying that the Arctic island was "critical" for national and economic security.
He has repeatedly expressed an interest in buying Greenland, having mooted the idea in 2019, during his first term as president.
Denmark, a long-time US ally, has made clear that Greenland is not for sale and that it belongs to its inhabitants.
Greenland's prime minister, Mute Egede, is pushing for independence from Denmark, but he too has made clear the territory is not for sale. He was visiting Copenhagen on Wednesday.
Chancellor Scholz said there was a "certain incomprehension" about statements coming from the incoming US administration.
five fatalities, warning that more casualties are likely as the fires spread.
Water Shortages Hamper Efforts
As hydrants in key areas run dry, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power chief Janisse Quinones urged residents to conserve water.
"We’re fighting a wildfire with urban water systems, and that is really challenging," she said.
President Joe Biden, visiting the city with California Governor Gavin Newsom, described the situation as "astounding" and pledged ongoing federal support to combat the fires.
Hollywood Disrupted
The wildfires have upended Hollywood, forcing the cancellation of events such as a glitzy awards show and a Pamela Anderson film premiere. Celebrities including Mandy Moore, James Woods, Mark Hamill, and Jamie Lee Curtis have evacuated their homes, with some reporting complete losses. Mandy Moore shared footage of her destroyed Altadena neighborhood, calling the experience "devastating." Mark Hamill and Jamie Lee Curtis described their escapes, expressing heartbreak over the widespread devastation. The Oscars nomination announcement has been delayed to January 19 to accommodate Academy members affected by the fires. With no containment in sight and thousands displaced, Los Angeles continues to battle an unprecedented and tragic wildfire crisis.
"Why Don't We Call US 'Mexican America'": Mexican President To Trump
Mexico City: Mexico's president took a swipe at Donald Trump on Wednesday, saying that the United States should be called "Mexican America," after Trump's vow to rename the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America." At her regular morning press conference, Claudia Sheinbaum displayed a 17th-century world map showing North America as "Mexican America."
Pointing out that the Gulf of Mexico was the name recognized by the United Nations, she turned the tables on Trump, saying: "Why don't we call it (the United States) Mexican America?" "It sounds nice, doesn't it?" "He talked about name, we too are talking about the name," she
said, while assuring that she expected to have "good relations" with the incoming US president. Trump, who will be sworn in for a second term on January 20, said Tuesday he planned to rename the Gulf of Mexico "the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring." "It's appropriate. And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country," he said. He also claimed that Mexico was run by drug cartels, to which Sheinbaum responded that "in Mexico, the people rule."In the run-up to his return to office, Trump has repeatedly lashed out at Mexico, threatening to impose stiff tariffs on imports from one of the United States' biggest trading partners unless it halted the flow of illegal migrants and drugs across the border.
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Maldives Seeks to Rebuild Defence Ties with India
New Delhi: Eight months after New Delhi was made to withdraw its military personnel from Maldives leading to frayed ties between the south Asian neighbours, a visit by the Maldivian defence minister to New Delhi aims to resume defence cooperaion.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday met his Maldivian counterpart Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon in New Delhi for high-level talks, including on boosting the defence preparedness of the Indian Ocean archipelago. During the meeting Mr Singh conveyed India's readiness to enhance defence ties with Maldives. According to the press statement, the bilateral talks between the two leaders were wide-ranging, but revolved around the core resolve to work closely in realising the joint vision for IndiaMaldives comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership. It further stated that the two ministers reviewed in all aspects of bilateral defence and security cooperation in great detail. "During the talks, both sides reasserted the firm commitment to work closely in realising the joint vision for IndiaMaldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership," the Defence Ministry said.
India, Taliban Discuss Chabahar Port
Dubai, United Arab Emirates:
A high-level meeting between the Afghan Taliban leadership and senior Indian officials was organised is Dubai on Wednesday. From India, foreign secretary Vikram Misri attended the meeting, while from Afghanistan the acting foreign minister of the Taliban government Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi was present. The meeting assumes significance as New Delhi and Kabul aim to foster ties in order to enhance cooperation between the two countries. Though New Delhi has continued aiding Afghanistan in a limited capacity, much of its bilateral ties has remained dormant since the Taliban's takeover in 2021.
The agenda for the meeting in Dubai was to boost bilateral ties between the two nations across varied sectors, including
humanitarian aid, developmental assistance, trade, commerce, sports, cultural ties, regional security, and projects of national interest, such as the Chabahar Port in Iran, which acts as a key supply route for goods to reach Afghanistan. India and Afghanistan share a land border too, but that has remained cut-off by Pakistan-occupied Kashmir or PoK since 1947.
In the meeting India pledged further humanitarian support to Afghanistan. This included priority assistance in the healthcare sector, supply of medicines, and rehabilitation of refugees.
Cold snap grips UK as -20C possible overnight
Wintry weather is tightening its grip in many parts of the UK, with subzero temperatures expected to plunge even lower overnight and more snow forecast in places.
Forecasters predict the coldest nights of the year over the next two days, and temperatures are expected to fall as low as -20C in some places that endured heavy snowfall at the weekend.
A fresh amber warning for snow covered parts of the South West until 21:00 GMT on Wednesday, with yellow snow and ice warnings also in place for other parts of the UK into Thursday. There were more than 60 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, and 130 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible, in place across England on Wednesday evening. Three flood alerts were in force in Wales.There were no severe flood warnings in place, which indicate a danger to life or significant disruption. Looking ahead, the flooding and warnings are expected to reduce with no significant rain predicted in the areas experiencing flooding.
Elon Musk Reacts To Projection Of Drastic Population Decline In India, China
Elon Musk recently voiced his concerns about the global population decline, calling it one of the world's most pressing challenges. Sharing a post on X (formerly Twitter), Musk highlighted a graph originally posted by the Tesla Owners Silicon Valley account. The graph illustrated projected population changes between 2018 and 2100 for key nations, including Nigeria, the United States, Indonesia, and Pakistan, underscoring the looming demographic shifts. The account posted: "Population collapse is humanity's greatest threat... Elon Musk."
Musk retweeted the statement and wrote: "Yes."
For years, experts have recognised that the world is heading toward population decline, though there is an ongoing debate about the speed of this trend and which countries will be most impacted. Key factors contributing to population decline include declining fertility rates, emigration, and ageing populations. In many nations, the average number of children per woman is below 2.1-the threshold required to sustain a stable population. In 2023, the average number of children per woman in England and Wales dropped to 1.44, the lowest ever
recorded, according to the Office for National Statistics. Globally, fertility rates have declined significantly, falling from an average of 5.3 children per
woman in 1963 to less than half that figure today, the Daily Express reported.
A graph first published in 2020 illustrates that while both India and China had populations of around 1.5 billion in 2018, their trajectories are expected to diverge sharply. By 2100, India's population is projected to decline to just under 1.1 billion, a
reduction of about 400 million. China's population, however, is expected to fall dramatically to 731.9 million-a staggering drop of 731 million. This would position Nigeria, with a projected
Elon Musk has taken to X, to share his agreement in a post that population decline now stands as the world's biggest problem.
population of 790.1 million, as the world's second most populous country by the end of the century.
The 2020 report by researchers at the University of Washington suggested that population decline, particularly in China and India, might occur more rapidly than previously anticipated. Despite fertility rates below replacement levels, the United States is projected to remain the fourth-largest nation in 2100, with population stability supported by positive net migration. Similarly, Canada and Australia are expected to maintain semi-stable populations through migration. By 2100, current growth nations such as Indonesia and Pakistan are predicted to experience slight population declines, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Ethiopia are expected to surpass them in population size around the turn of the century. Elon Musk has frequently voiced concerns about global population decline, warning that "population collapse is coming."
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From India, foreign secretary Vikram Misri attended the meeting, while from Afghanistan the acting foreign minister of the Taliban government Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi was present.
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"First 40 Tejas Still Not...": Air Force Chief As China Tests 6th Gen Jets
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh talked about the emphasis on R&D and how it "loses its relevance if it is not able to meet the timeline."
Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, flagged delays in the delivery of the Tejas fighter aircraft into service, calling for increased private partnership in developing defence products and providing more funds for Research and Development (R&D).
Speaking at the 21st Subroto Mukherjee Seminar on 'Atmanirbharta in Aerospace: Way Ahead', yesterday, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh talked about the emphasis on R&D and how it "loses its relevance if it is not able to meet the timeline." Air Chief Marshal Singh also flagged the
Mumbai Airport Achieves Level 5 Accreditation
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has become the first airport in India to have received the prestigious Level 5 accreditation from the globally acclaimed Airports Council International (ACI), Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani said on Wednesday. Gautam Adani stated that CSMIA, managed by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL), is not only the first airport in India but also the third in the world to attain Level 5 accreditation from ACI for 'Customer Experience'.
delay in procurement of the first batch of the Tejas fighter jet ordered by the Indian Air Force. "Capacity building is important, we may not need it every time but we need to be flexible and production agencies have to invest in their advanced manufacturing processes to increase
speed and upskill their manpower," Air Chief Marshal Singh said at the seminar. "Tejas, we started inducting it in 2016...We should go back to 1984 when the project was conceived. The aircraft flew 17 years later in 2001. Then, the induction started another 16 years later in 2016. Today we are in 2024 and I (Indian Air Force) do not have the first 40 aircraft...This is the production capability. We need to do something and I'm very convinced that we need to have competition, we need to have multiple sources available so that people are wary of losing their orders, otherwise, things won't change," he added.
Seven-Layered Security In UP's Prayagraj Ahead Of Mahakumbh Mela
Prayagraj, UP: Days before the commencement of the Mahakumbh festival, Inspector General of Police, Prayagraj Tarun Gaba said that a 7-layer security scheme is being implemented to avert any untoward incident in the
mass religious gathering. Talking to ANI on Wednesday, Tarun Gaba said, "Mahakumbh 2025 is the biggest gathering of humanity... We are committed to providing good arrangements here and the Mahakumbh festival should be celebrated in a very safe and orderly manner... We are ensuring impenetrable and foolproof security here. We have implemented a 7-layer security scheme in which people will be checked and suspicious persons will be identified at different levels. We are also coordinating with different agencies including state and centre agencies."
Modi to Inaugurate J&K's
Z-Morh Tunnel
Next Week
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to next week inaugurate the 6.4km-long Z-Morh tunnel, where a militant attack killed seven people in October last year. The attack failed to deter authorities from halting work on the tunnel and the government seems to be sending a message to militants by planning the inauguration by the Prime Minister. A local doctor and six migrant workers were killed in the attack at Gagangir in Ganderbal on a camp housing workers of APCO Infratech, a private company hired for the tunnelling. It was the first major attack on a key infrastructure project in a long time.
The tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg but the larger plan is to provide round-the-year connectivity to Ladakh through it and another larger 13.1km-long Zojila tunnel, which is slated for completion by December 2026. Heavy snowfall cuts Sonamarg and Ladakh from the rest of the country for some winter months.
Sources said the tunnel would be inaugurated on January 13. “The PM is expected to address officers and workers on the occasion,” a source said.
Modi ‘PR’ trumps scholarships as government spends Rs 62 crore on Pariksha Pe Charcha
Had the National Talent Search scholarship been continued, the total expenditure on it across these three years would have come to less than Rs 40 crore, going by spending patterns
The government has spent over Rs. 62 crore in the past three years on Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC), an annual event where Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers advice to schoolchildren on exam preparedness. The event, which involves students from various states, has sparked criticism for being a repetitive public relations exercise, especially when the government suspended the National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) scholarships for schoolchildren. The NTSE, which provided scholarships to students from high school to their doctoral programs, was halted to cut costs. If the scholarship had continued, the expenditure over three years would have amounted to less than Rs. 40 crore, based on previous spending patterns.
The PPC is held annually in Delhi, where pre-screened students ask questions to the Prime Minister. The education ministry bears the
costs of organizing the event, which includes expenses like printing and sending appreciation letters to the millions of participants. In 202223, the government spent Rs. 28 crore on sending letters to around 38 lakh participants, in addition to Rs. 10 crore for the event itself. For 2023-24, online letters were sent, reducing some costs, but expenses
still reached Rs. 16 crore. Many critics, including parents and academics, have questioned the government's priorities, arguing that the NTSE scholarship was a more impactful initiative.
Rajesh Jha, a faculty member at Delhi University, emphasized that the scholarship encouraged higher education and boosted students’ confidence. It has been in place since 1963 and provides financial support
to successful candidates, who receive stipends up to Rs. 37,500 per month for PhD studies.
The NTSE exam is held in two stages, with 2,000 students selected for the scholarship each year. The government’s suspension of the NTSE has raised concerns about reducing educational excellence and innovation. Some parents have also criticized the government for using PPC as a platform for self-glorification, while neglecting infrastructure issues in schools.
In 2021, the government directed the NCERT to review the NTSE, and a committee suggested reforms, including rural and urban quotas to address urban bias. The review report was submitted in September 2022, but there has been no further update on the status of the NTSE. The education ministry has yet to respond to inquiries about the increased spending on PPC and the continued suspension of the NTSE.
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"Not A Chance In Hell"
"There isn't a snowball's chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States,"
Trudeau
Anita Anand Might Replace Justin Trudeau As Canadian PM
"All Hell Will Break Out"
Trump Sets Ultimatum for Hamas to Release Hostages
"I tell this, I don't want to hurt the negotiation. If the deal isn't done before I take office, which is now going to be two weeks, all hell will break out in the Middle East," Trump said.
US President-elect Donald Trump warned that "all hell will break out" if Hamas does not release hostages before his inauguration on January 20. Speaking at a press conference in Mar-a-Lago, Trump made it clear that if the hostages are not returned by the time he takes office, the situation in the Middle East would escalate dramatically.
Trump's comments came in response to questions about ongoing negotiations for the release of American hostages held by Hamas. His Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steven Charles Witkoff, expressed optimism about the progress in talks, stating that significant strides had been made and that he was hopeful for positive developments before Trump's swearing-in.
Witkoff emphasized that Trump's leadership and the red lines he set were crucial to driving the negotiation forward, with progress being made in Doha. Despite the optimism, Trump maintained his firm stance, warning that failure to release the hostages would have severe consequences for Hamas and the broader region.
Trump also highlighted the human toll, recalling heartbreaking stories from families of the victims, including those who had lost loved ones during the October 7th attacks. He concluded by stressing that the negotiations must be concluded before his inauguration, or the situation would worsen.
"We'll Be Changing Name Of Gulf Of Mexico To Gulf Of America": Trump
Palm Beach, Florida: Donald Trump threatened military action to secure the Panama Canal and economic force against neighboring Canada, in a meandering press conference Tuesday a day after Congress certified his election victory.
to the post.
Anita Anand, Canada's Minister of Transport, is emerging as a strong contender to succeed Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister after his resignation announcement on Monday. Trudeau’s resignation paves the way for a new leader to be elected by March 24. Anand, a senior member of the Liberal Party of Canada, has held key portfolios, including Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Minister of National Defence, and President of the Treasury Board. She became the Transport Minister in 2024.
Born on May 20, 1967, in Kentville, Nova Scotia, Anand’s parents immigrated from India in the early 1960s. She pursued an academic path in political science, followed by degrees in law from Oxford University, Dalhousie University, and the University of Toronto. Early in her career, she taught at Yale Law School and the University of Toronto.
The Republican president-elect had gathered reporters at his home in southern Florida to announce a $20 billion Emirati investment in US technology, but his remarks quickly became a rally-style rant as he returned
"We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring," Trump told reporters.
at length to familiar campaign themes. "Since we won the election, the whole perception of the whole world is different. People from other countries have called me. They said, 'Thank you, thank you,'" Trump said as he set out his agenda for the coming four years.
The billionaire announced he was going to rename the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America" and threatened the US's southern neighbour again with massive tariffs if it does not halt illegal border crossings. "We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring," he told reporters, adding that "It's appropriate. And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country."
30,000 Evacuated as LA Wildfire Rages, city declares emergency
A wildfire raged across an upscale section of Los Angeles on Tuesday, destroying homes and creating traffic jams as 30,000 people evacuated beneath huge plumes of smoke that covered much of the metropolitan area. At least 1,262 acres (510 hectares) of the Pacific Palisades area between Santa Monica and Malibu had burned, officials said, after they had already warned of extreme fire danger from powerful winds that arrived following extended dry weather.
The fire grew rapidly in a matter of hours as officials warned the worst wind conditions were expected to come overnight, leading to concerns that more neighborhoods could be forced to flee
IIT Alumnus V Narayanan To Lead ISRO
New Delhi: Rocket scientist V Narayanan will take over the mantle from current Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath on January 14. His elevation was announced by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.
Mr Narayanan completed his M Tech in Cryogenic Engineering and PhD in Aerospace Engineering from IIT, Kharagpur, where he was awarded a Silver Medal for achieving the first rank in the M Tech programme.
Amit Shah Launches Bharatpol to Nab Fugitives
Union home minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched a new portal, Bharatpol, to streamline the process for law enforcement agencies in India seeking international assistance through the global police body, Interpol, against fugitives wanted for crimes in India.
The new portal, developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), is designed to help catch criminals who flee abroad and improve cooperation between Indian authorities and international law enforcement.
Shah said that through Bharatpol, every agency and police force in India can connect seamlessly with Interpol, thereby expediting investigations. The portal’s primary objective is to help law enforcement agencies across India swiftly address crimes that cross national borders, facilitating real-time access to critical international crime-fighting resources.
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Mr
Anita Anand is one of the front runners to becoming the Prime Minister of Canada. If she gets elected, she will become the first woman of colour and of Indian descent to become the prime minister of Canada. She will take over from Justin Trudeau should her Liberal Party appoint her
Difficult Transition
Joe Biden is doing everything possible to make the transition as difficult as possible
Trump
Five dead as huge winter storm grips swathe of US
At least five people have died in a winter storm that has seized a swathe of the US in its icy grip, leading to mass school closures, travel chaos and power cuts. Seven US states declared emergencies: Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky and Arkansas.
More than 2,300 flights have been cancelled, with nearly 9,000 delays also reported owing to the extreme weather caused by the polar vortex of icy cold air that usually circles the North Pole. Around 190,000 people had no power early on Tuesday across states in the storm's path, according to Poweroutage.us. Snow and sleet is forecast to continue through the day in much of the north-eastern US, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
TOP STORIES OF THE WEEK
H-1B Visa Renewal Eases in 2025
Indians To Benefit Most
Highly-skilled professionals in the US, including hundreds of thousands of Indians, will soon be able to renew their H-1B visas without leaving the country. This change resolves a longstanding issue for visa holders, who previously had to travel to their home countries for renewal stamps.
A pilot program launched by the US Department of State a year ago tested the new process with 20,000 eligible participants.
Listed in the US Federal Register, the program was highly successful, showing significant efficiency improvements. The current system requires visa holders to endure long wait times, delays, and substantial expenses for international travel and visa appointments. The new system aims to eliminate these challenges, making the renewal process faster and more convenient. In a year-end statement, the US Department of State confirmed plans to establish a formal US-based renewal program in 2025. The pilot program already streamlined the process for thousands of applicants, mainly Indian professionals in specialized fields. While the initiative is set to begin this year, the exact launch date remains unannounced. The update promises reduced inconvenience and costs for H-1B visa holders.
Justin Trudeau Ends NineYear Run Over 'Internal Battles'
Justin Trudeau's resignation comes as the Liberal Party grapples with sinking poll numbers, internal discord, and a resurgent Conservative opposition led by Pierre Poilievre.
Under growing pressure from his own party, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced he will step down and end his nine-year stretch as leader.
Trudeau said he would stay on in office until his Liberal Party can choose a new leader, and that parliament would be prorogued - or suspended - until 24 March.
53 Dead In Huge Quake Near Mount Everest, Tremors Also Felt In Parts Of India
New Delhi: Fifty-three people were killed after an earthquake of magnitude 7.1 hit Tibet near the Nepalese border today, news agency AFP said quoting Chinese media Xinhua. The tremors of the earthquake were felt in several parts of India, including Bihar, Assam and West Bengal. The epicentre of the earthquake was in Tingri county in Shigatse city. Tingri is about 400 km southwest of Tibet's capital Lhasa and is on the border with Nepal. It is a tourism hub for those visiting Mount Everest.
Rape Convict Asaram Bapu Gets Interim Bail
New Delhi:
A week after self-styled godman Asaram Bapu returned to Rajasthan's Jodhpur jail after being released on a 17-day parole, the Supreme Court today granted him interim bail on medical grounds. The 83-year-old, whose real name is Asumal Sirumalani Harpalani, was arrested for raping a teenage girl in his ashram in Jodhpur in 2013 and is lodged in a central jail there. A bench of Justices MM Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal granted him interim bail till March 31 and directed that he can't meet his followers after he is released.
Trump Calls For US-Canada "Merger", Hours After Trudeau Resignation
Donald Trump has been floating the idea of making Canada the 51st state of the United States ever since he met Justin Trudeau after his November 5 electoral victory.
Washington: Hours after the resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, US President-elect Donald Trump on Monday renewed his offer of making Canada the 51st state of the United States.
Trudeau, 53, announced to resign Monday as he was forced by his ruling Liberal Party amidst his growing unpopularity. General elections are scheduled this year.
The Canadian prime minister said that he would stay on as prime minister till the party elected a new leader.
Trump, 78, who never had a good relationship with Trudeau even during his first term from 2017-2021, has been floating the idea of making Canada the 51st state of the United States ever since he met Trudeau after his November 5
electoral victory in Mar-a-Lago. Thereafter, he has been mentioning this on his social media posts several times.
“Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned,” Trump said on Truth Social.
“If Canada merged with the US, there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!” said the presidentelect after the resignation of Trudeau on Monday.
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500 On Bumble, 200 On Snapchat: Delhi Man Scams 700 Women As "US Model"
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New Delhi: During the day, he works as a recruiter at a private company in Uttar Pradesh's Noida. At night he turns into a US-based model on a soul-searching trip to India. His day job offered him security, and his nocturnal activities brought in the money through manipulation and blackmail. Tushar Singh Bisht, 23, was arrested from the Shakarpur area of East Delhi on Friday for defrauding over 700 women by posing as a model on dating platforms. A resident of Delhi, Tushar has a bachelor's degree in business administration (BBA). For the past three years, he had been employed as a technical recruiter at a private company in Noida.
His father works as a driver, his mother is a homemaker, and his sister is employed in Gurugram. Tushar, despite holding on to a stable job, descended into the world of cybercrime, largely motivated by greed and lust for women.
Modus Operandi
Using a virtual international mobile number procured through an app, Tushar created fake profiles on popular dating and social media platforms such as Bumble and Snapchat. He posed as a US-based freelance model visiting India, using a fabricated persona with photos and stories stolen from an actual Brazilian model. His targets were primarily women aged 18-30, whom he befriended through these platforms. Once he gained their trust, Tushar
Tushar created fake profiles on popular dating and social media platforms such as Bumble and Snapchat
would request their phone numbers and intimate photos or videos under the guise of friendship. Unbeknownst to his victims, he saved the visuals on his phone. Initially, these activities were conducted for personal amusement, but over time, they evolved into a systematic scheme of extortion, police said.
According to the police, Tushar used these visuals to blackmail women into giving him money. If a victim refused his demands for money, he would threaten to upload their explicit content online or sell it on the dark web.
The Victims
According to police findings, Tushar engaged with more than 500 women on Bumble and over 200 on Snapchat and WhatsApp. He accumulated a trove
of intimate content, which he used to blackmail his victims. One such case came to light when a second-year Delhi University student filed a complaint with the Cyber Police Station on December 13, 2024. Her ordeal began in January of the same year when she connected with Tushar on Bumble. He introduced himself as a US-based model and initiated a friendship that later transitioned to private chats on WhatsApp and Snapchat. During their exchanges, the victim shared personal photos and videos with him. When she requested to meet in person, he consistently avoided her under various pretexts. Soon after, he sent her one of her private videos and demanded money, threatening to leak or sell the material if she did not comply. Initially, the student succumbed to the
Tushar Singh Bisht, 23, was arrested from the Shakarpur area of East Delhi on Friday for defrauding over 700 women by posing as a model on dating platforms.
pressure, paying a small amount while explaining her financial constraints as a student. However, Tushar's incessant demands pushed her to confide in her family and lodge a formal complaint.
The Investigation
The Cyber Police Station of West Delhi formed a team under the supervision of ACP Arvind Yadav. A combination of technical analysis and intelligence gathering helped the team trace Tushar's activities and identify him as the accused. A swift raid in Shakarpur led to his arrest.
During the operation, the police recovered a mobile phone containing incriminating data, a virtual international mobile number linked to his criminal activities, and 13 credit cards from various banks. The police also retrieved over 60 WhatsApp chat records with women from Delhi and nearby regions. Preliminary findings revealed that apart from the complainant, at least four other women had been similarly extorted by Tushar. The investigation uncovered two bank accounts linked to Tushar. One account contained entries of payments made by his victims, while details of the second account are still under probe.
99% Indians Won't Work With Sustenance Money: CEO
In his post, he said that the sole reason why Indian employees return to offices every day is for financial security and sustenance.
Shantanu Deshpande, the head of Bombay Shaving Company, made an intriguing observation on LinkedIn that most Indian employees are not content with their jobs. He further speculated that many would opt out of work entirely if their financial needs were met.
In his post, he said that the sole reason why Indian employees return to offices every day is for financial security and sustenance.
"One of the tragic and late realisations I've had is - most people don't like their jobs. If everyone in India was given sustenance money and financial security their current jobs give them, 99 percent won't show up to work the next day," Mr Deshpande wrote. "From blue collar workforce to govt employees to gig workers to factories to insurance salesmen to banks to small business owners to even 'fun and employee-friendly startups' like BSC (my HR is gonna kill me) - the story is the same. 19-20 ka farak (There's hardly a difference)."
Deshpande likened the country's work culture to chasing a dangling carrot. He said, "To usurp someone away from their homes and families all day from morning to night, sometimes for days and weeks, with a hanging carrot of a paycheck - we just assume it's alright to do that cos that's what's been happening for 250+ years. That's how nations have been built. So we do it."
The Bombay Shaving Company CEO also addressed the wealth disparity in the country, pointing out that only 2,000 families control a significant portion of the nation's wealth. While the precise figures remain unclear, Mr Deshpande emphasised that these families pay less than 1.8 percent of the taxes.
Mr Deshpande concluded his post by sharing his personal reflections on the inequality inherent in such a work culture and urged those with resources to "be kind and generous, and help lift as many people up as possible."
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Shantanu Deshpande, the head of Bombay Shaving Company
Are superfoods really all that super?
There’s a belief that superfoods alone can transform your health. Nothing could be a bigger myth
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Superfoods have become a buzzword in the health industry and it’s easy to see why. These foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that are often linked to a variety of health benefits, from improving heart health to enhancing skin appearance. They also seem to take the effort away from planning a diet through the day and take care of your deficiencies at one shot as a quick fix. While these foods can certainly be part of a healthy diet, the notion that simply eating them will automatically transform your health is a myth. Health is not solely dependent on eating a single category of food, no matter how nutrient-dense it may be. True health is the result of a balanced, varied diet, regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, and other lifestyle factors such as stress management. Eating a superfood in isolation, while ignoring other aspects of nutrition or general well-being, will not lead to
miraculous changes in your health.
Our bodies require a variety of nutrients to function optimally, and no single food can provide all of them. Superfoods may offer a high concentration of specific nutrients — such as antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids or fibre — but they need to be incorporated into a diverse and balanced eating plan to make a real difference. For example, while blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage, they cannot replace other important nutrients like protein, healthy fats and vitamins that are required for bodily functions. That’s why we insist on various food groups, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
Similarly, incorporating leafy greens like spinach or kale can help boost your intake of vitamins A, C, and K, while nuts and seeds provide heart-healthy fats and protein. But for them to be processed and absorbed,
your body has to be in shape too with exercise and sleep hygiene. Another myth surrounding superfoods is that they can replace medication. While some superfoods, like turmeric and ginger, have antiinflammatory properties and may support the immune system, they are not substitutes for medical treatment. For those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease, relying solely on superfoods without following proper medical advice is not recommended. Nutrition is a complement to medical treatments, not a replacement. The third perception is that superfoods are costly and difficult to find, which might discourage many from including them in their diet. Yet local fruits and vegetables, like spinach, carrots and apples, are also considered superfoods due to their high nutrient content and affordability. The nutrition profile is more important than how it is packaged by marketing labels.
How to prevent heart attacks in winter? Keep your BP at 120/80 mmHg or even lower
As the temperature drops with winter, our blood pressure tends to go up. A normal blood pressure for most adults is less than 120/80 millimetres of mercury (mmHg), where the first number is the systolic pressure (the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats) and the second is the diastolic (the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats). Considering Indians have multiple co-morbidities — obesity, diabetes, cholesterol, genetic history — which can amplify your BP, they need to keep readings within this range or even lower.
Why BP goes up in winter
Cold weather constricts blood vessels to conserve body heat. This makes it harder for the blood to flow and increases blood pressure. Pollutants like PM2.5 and PM 10 have the same narrowing effect. People tend to eat more, exercise less and gain some weight in winter, which can elevate blood pressure. Vitamin D deficiency, because of poor sunlight exposure, can increase the risk of hypertension. Also, since you sweat less in colder temperatures, you retain salt, which in turn makes your body retain water. This increases blood volume and consequently blood pressure. Why is even the smallest BP rise bad for your heart? If your BP is even slightly higher than 120/80 mmHg, and you have another risk factor
like diabetes (Indians usually do), then the risk of heart attack goes up by two-fold. If you have multiple risk factors like obesity or cholesterol, then the combined risk goes up by up eight-fold. High BP makes the heart work harder to pump blood, which can thicken and enlarge the left ventricle or lower chamber. It can damage blood vessel walls, triggering tears and blood clots. Cholesterol and fats build up over the tears, forming plaque. This buildup can narrow arteries and block blood flow to the heart. Or high blood pressure may just dislodge the plaques that block blood flow, triggering a heart attack. How to manage your bp levels in winter
Manage other conditions like diabetes and keep them in range. Focus on sleep hygiene and other lifestyle course correctives like diet (watch that salt) and exercise (try increasing the quota to avoid calorie and fat buildup). If your BP is elevated, go in for daily monitoring. Record readings twice a day for a week, once in the morning without medication and again in the evening after it. Once your BP has stabilised, a weekly check is ideal. Do not take tea or coffee half an hour before measuring your BP. Take three readings after lying down and work out an average. Consult a doctor if the reading is high. Sometimes, you may have to increase the dosage of a BP pill in winter.
India’s Cricket Stars Avoid Domestic Red-Ball Games
Key Test players have been on years-long break from domestic red-ball cricket; Speaking on condition of anonymity, a team management member said that while playing domestic cricket cannot fix all the flaws, it can certainly help Test players get into the rhythm needed to play the longest format.
Indian cricket faces a red-ball crisis, with senior players avoiding domestic cricket, leading to declining Test performances. The Rohit Sharma-led team recently lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to Australia after a decade, following a historic whitewash by New Zealand at home, which also cost them a spot in the World Test Championship final. Former captain Sunil Gavaskar criticized India’s stars for skipping domestic cricket, urging them to play Ranji Trophy matches to regain rhythm and commitment. “Without game time, players stagnate,” said a team management member, emphasizing the importance of domestic cricket in maintaining Test readiness. Despite BCCI Secretary Jay Shah warning players of “severe implications” for prioritizing the IPL over domestic cricket, senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma haven’t played redball domestic matches since 2012 and 2016, respectively. In contrast, mid-tier players Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan lost central contracts for similar neglect. The lack of domestic participation reflects in India’s Test struggles: poor shot selection, lack of temperament, and bowlers unable to sustain
Bumrah Nominated for ICC Player of the Month
A month of riveting Test match action to cap off 2024 has come to an end, with some notable standout performances during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the Test series between South Africa and Pakistan. Australia skipper Pat Cummins, star India bowler Jasprit Bumrah, and South Africa right-arm seamer Dane Paterson have been nominated for the December's Player of the Month award on Tuesday following their exceptional performance for the national team throughout the month.
Jasprit Bumrah was India's best performer in Australia, also winning the Player of the Series award for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. These remarkable performances also earned Bumrah the highest rating points by any Indian bowler in the ICC Test Player Rankings.
Despite BCCI Secretary Jay Shah warning players of “severe implications” for prioritizing the IPL over domestic cricket, senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma haven’t played redball domestic matches since 2012 and 2016, respectively
intensity. During the BGT, only Yashasvi Jaiswal faced over 200 balls
Pant
anchor innings. Former player Irfan Pathan called for a “cultural change,” pointing out how legends like Sachin Tendulkar prioritized domestic cricket to stay sharp. However, consistent domestic performers like Sarfaraz Khan and Abhimanyu Easwaran remain overlooked, signaling a disconnect between domestic toil and national rewards. With diminishing consistency in domestic cricket, experts believe reviving the stars' participation in Ranji Trophy could benefit both the players and Indian cricket.
BCCI to Review Debacle: Gambhir Stays, Kohli & Rohit Under Scrutiny
India’s 1-3 loss to Australia in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy has raised questions about senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma after their poor performances. Head coach Gautam Gambhir and his support staff also came under scrutiny, but BCCI sources confirmed all three would continue in their roles. Kohli and Rohit remain in contention for the Champions Trophy and the fiveTest series against England in June. Rohit and Kohli, pivotal to India’s successes over the past decade, including their T20 World Cup win in June, have struggled since. Kohli scored a century in the opening Test in Perth but ended the series with just 190 runs, repeatedly dismissed chasing balls outside off-
stump. Rohit, who missed the Perth Test for personal reasons, managed only 31 runs across three matches before opting out of the Sydney Test. Despite criticism, Gambhir defended the duo, emphasizing their hunger and passion for representing India. "They are tough people and can still take Indian cricket forward," he said. Since Gambhir’s appointment, India has excelled in T20 cricket but struggled in Tests, including a 0-3 home series loss to New Zealand, their first in 12 years. This and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy defeat eliminated India from the World Test Championship final contention. India will now host England for a limited-overs series in January before heading to Dubai for the Champions Trophy.
Rohit Sharma has a future in stand-up comedy: Simon Katich
Former Australia cricketer Simon Katich takes a cheeky jibe at Rohit Sharma, saying Rohit Sharma will have a great future in stand-up comedy.
“Well, if you look at the numbers, they are damning. We saw it in this Test. It was very selfless of him to opt out of the Test,” Katich told Star Sports.
“I saw in that interview, very wellspoken. There’s no doubt he has a future after he is done playing cricket in stand-up comedy because his humor was very good,” he added.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy: 8.37 Lakh Attendees
A total of 8,37,879 people attended the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Cricket Australia said in a statement.
The five-match Test series between Australia and India also had the fourth most highest crowd and it was also registered the most number of crowd for any non-Ashes series.
“Congratulations to the Australian and Indian teams on producing one of the most fiercely contested and captivating Test series in Australian cricket history and to Pat Cummins and his team on winning the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in ten years,” said Nick Hockley, Cricket Australia Chief Executive.
“We knew this would be an extraordinary series but the size of the crowds, viewing audiences and the digital engagement across all CA channels has exceeded our highest expectations.
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in a knock, while stalwarts like Kohli and
failed to
US launches probe of Tesla's 'smart summon' driverless tech
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US safety regulators have opened an investigation of a Tesla feature that allows drivers to summon parked cars without being in the vehicle after numerous accidents were reported linked to the technology.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said the Tesla cars operating in the "Actually Smart Summon" mode were reported to be unable to detect posts or parked cars. The feature is in place on nearly 2.6 million cars made by Tesla since 2016, including its Model S sports car, Model 3 sedan, and Model X and Y sports utility vehicles.
Tesla did not immediately comment.
Boss Elon Musk has previously been an outspoken defender of Tesla's push into self-driving, arguing that it is more safe than regular driving and represents the future of transportation.
NHTSA said in this case, at least four crashes had been reported involving the Actually Smart Summon technology, which the company released in September and allows drivers to move their cars using their phones.
Facebook and Instagram get rid of fact checkers
Meta is abandoning the use of independent fact checkers on Facebook and Instagram, replacing them with X-style "community notes" where commenting on the accuracy of posts is left to users.
In a video posted alongside a blog post by the company on Tuesday, chief executive Mark Zuckerberg said thirdparty moderators were "too politically biased" and it was "time to get back to our roots around free expression".
The move comes as Zuckerberg and other tech executives seek to improve relations with US President-elect Donald Trump before he takes office later this month.
Trump and his Republican allies have criticised Meta for its fact-checking policy, calling it censorship of rightwing voices.
Speaking after the changes were announced, Trump told a news conference he was impressed by Zuckerberg's decision and that Meta had "come a long way".
Asked whether Zuckerberg was "directly responding" to threats Trump had made to him in the past, the incoming US president responded: "Probably".
The agency said it was also aware of about a dozen other incidents involving its predecessor "Smart Summon".
None of the accidents that sparked this investigation led to injuries, NHTSA said.But the probe is likely to raise new questions about the automated driving technology Tesla has made available to drivers across its fleet.
The electric car company is also facing NHTSA investigations of its wider autopilot features sparked by accidents, some of them fatal.
This probe is the first step in a process
that can lead to a recall.
NHTSA said it would look into how fast cars can go while the Actually Smart Summon feature is in use and what restrictions are in place to prevent drivers from using it on public roads, among other issues.
Tesla's manual advises drivers that Actually Smart Summon is intended for use in private, familiar areas, like driveways and recommends a clear line of sight between the driver and the car. It also says that Actually Smart Summon will be disabled on public roads.
Microsoft plans to invest $3 billion on AI, cloud infrastructure in India
Microsoft chairman and CEO Satya Nadella said that the company will invest $3 billion in India in cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and skilling over the next two years, including the establishment of new data centers.
The company will also help train 10 million people over the next five years with AI skills in the country.
ready to go live in 2026. In a blog post, the company said the new investment aims to develop a scalable AI computing ecosystem to meet the growing demands of India’s rapidly expanding AI start-ups and research community.
The company will also help train 10 million people over the next five years with AI skills in the country.
“India is rapidly becoming a leader in AI innovation, unlocking new opportunity across the country. The investments in infrastructure and skilling we are announcing today reaffirm our commitment to making India AIfirst, and will help ensure people and organisations across the country benefit broadly,” Nadella, who is currently visiting India, said at the Bengaluru leg of Microsoft AI Tour.
Microsoft already has three datacenter regions in the market, and the fourth
Getty Acquires Shutterstock for $3.7B
Getty Images is buying Shutterstock to create a $3.7 billion visual content company. The merger comes at a time when companies that use still images are facing increased competition from images generated by artificial intelligence.
The companies said Tuesday that they have complementary portfolios and that a merger will provide customers with a broader array still imagery, video, music, 3D and other media.
“With the rapid rise in demand for compelling visual content across industries, there has never been a better time for our two businesses to come together,” Getty Images CEO Craig Peters said in a prepared statement. Peters will serve as CEO of the combined business.
Emirates Launches Airbus A350 on DubaiEdinburgh Route
Emirates celebrated the commercial debut of its first Airbus A350-900 with a maiden flight from Dubai to Edinburgh on January 4, 2025. The A350 is the first of 65 such aircraft joining Emirates’ fleet, showcasing advanced technology, improved fuel efficiency, and a nextgeneration cabin design.
The inaugural flight, EK23, departed Dubai at 14.50 and landed in Edinburgh at 19.05 local time. Passengers enjoyed specially curated Scottish-inspired menus and received commemorative certificates to mark the occasion.
“As the nature of jobs evolves, AI is becoming an essential skill for professionals. Indian professionals are leading the way in learning and skill-building on LinkedIn, spending nearly 50 per cent more time on learning per week than the average professional. They have been early adopters of AI, with a 122 per cent year-over-year increase in Indian members adding AI skills to their profiles, compared to 71 per cent globally,” the company said.
MSR Lab also announced an AI Innovation Network, under which it will build new collaborations to accelerate the transition from research to real, usable business solutions.
Rolls-Royce factory to expand for more bespoke cars
Luxury carmaker Rolls-Royce will expand its Goodwood factory and global headquarters to meet the growing demand for bespoke models.
It will invest more than £300 million so it can build more highly-customised versions of its cars for its super-rich clientele. The 120-year old British brand came under full control of German carmaker BMW in 2003 and officially opened the site in West Sussex the same year. Rolls Royce says this expansion secures its future in the UK.
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Allu Arjun's Film Nears Rs.1770 Cr, Set to Surpass Baahubali 2
Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna’s latest film Pushpa 2 has created history at the box office. With its 32-day-long trajectory at the box office, the film is now on a streak to break records. In India, Pushpa 2: The Rule has already become the highest grosser after it overtook Baahubali 2 and created a 1200-crore club. On its 5th Sunday, Pushpa 2 has earned Rs 1206 crores nett in India. With this, it surpassed Baahubali 2’s nett India collection which was Rs 1030 crores back in 2017. Pushpa 2’s gross collection in India stood at Rs 1429.50 crores on Saturday.
Ram Kapoor on 55 Kg Weight Loss: 'Does It Matter How?'
Actor Ram Kapoor recently revealed his remarkable weight loss journey, shedding 55 kg in 18 months. In December 2024, he announced losing 42 kg, leaving fans stunned. Discussing his transformation on a podcast, Ram dismissed rumors of using Ozempic or undergoing bariatric surgery, stating, “Does it matter? People use these methods to better themselves, and there’s nothing wrong with that.”
Ram shared that his journey began a year and a half ago. Despite progress in the first six months, a severe shoulder injury required surgery and eight months of physiotherapy, halting his efforts temporarily. He highlighted his earlier five-year attempt to lose 30 kg and regain it, which taught him valuable lessons.
Critiquing the dieting industry, Ram called it a "$20 billion trap designed to make you fail." He emphasized that true success comes from changing one’s mindset and focusing on factors like fat percentage and BMI instead of just weight loss.
Ram credited his routine, which includes eating twice daily, intermittent fasting, 45 minutes of cardio and strength training, and prioritizing hydration and sleep. He added, “Athletes never focus on weight loss alone; it’s about holistic health and discipline.”
Payal Kapadia on Golden Globes Loss:
‘We Had So Much Fun’
Stree 3 Update: Akshay Kumar Joins Third Instalment: Dinesh Vijan
Filmmaker Payal Kapadia has reacted to her film All We Imagine As Light not bagging any award at the 82nd Golden Globes, after securing two nominations earlier.
Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light has been making waves globally since last year, especially after its world premiere at the main competition of the 77th Cannes Film Festival last year, where it won the Grand Prix award. It was the first film from India to compete in the main competition since Swaham in 1994. However, it was a disappointing moment for all the cinema lovers when the film didn’t bag an award at the Golden Globes recently, after securing two nominations, including in the Best Director and the Best Non-English film category. Now, the filmmaker has reacted to the loss.
Taking to her Instagram handle, Payal shared her first reaction to the same, taking the snub in her stride. Sharing a mirror selfie with All We Imagine As Light producers Thomas Hakim, Julien Graff, and Ranabir Das, on her Instagram Stories, she wrote, “We didn’t win anything but had so much fun.” She also gave a special shout-out to the designers who helped with her look in a jumpsuit. She thanked them for making her feel confident with their styling. Evidently, the director didn’t leave with a heavy heart and only expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
At the 82nd Golden Globes, it was nominated in two categories – Best Non-English Language Motion Picture award and Best Director for Payal.
If you've loved Akshay Kumar's brief cameo in Stree 2, then there's some good news to celebrate! The actor is returning as the villain in the film's third installment Stree 3. Dinesh Vijan, the producer behind the beloved horror-comedy universe, has confirmed it.
On Sunday (January 5), Akshay Kumar attended the trailer launch of his upcoming film Sky Force in Mumbai. The million-dollar question from the event was whether the actor will be a part of Dinesh Vijan's horror-comedy universe, again.
In conversation with News18, he replied, “What can I say? Dinesh and Jyoti (producer) will have to decide that. They're the ones to pump in the money. Aur Amar Kaushik ko direct karna hai. (And Amar Kaushik will have to direct the film).”
That's when Dinesh Vijan chimed in, saying, “Of course, he's a part of the universe! He's our Thanos." Dinesh Vijan donned the producer's cap for Sky Force too. Movies like Stree, Stree 2 Bhediya, Munjya, and Roohi are backed by Dinesh Vijan's Maddock Films.
Sunita Ahuja, wife of Govinda, claimed their daughter Tina’s Bollywood career suffered due to nepotism and fears of Govinda’s interference on sets. She urged the industry to give outsiders opportunities, criticizing the preference for a select group of star kids. Tina, who debuted in Second Hand Husband (2015), remains open to work. Tina Ahuja marked her Bollywood debut with the romantic comedy Second Hand Husband in 2015. In an interview with Hindi Rush, Govinda’s wife Sunita talked about their daughter Tina’s desire to work and how people were scared that her father would come on her film’s sets to boss everyone.
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Singham Again Rohit Shetty’s Cop Universe Implodes
There is an early scene in Singham Again where Ajay Devgn’s titular super-cop barges into his teenage son’s party along with a couple of cronies, embarrasses him in public, and hauls him back home. He does it, it seems, only to give director Rohit Shetty another opportunity to shoot him in stylised slow-motion. At home, Singham and his wife, Avni (Kareena Kapoor Khan) lecture their son about how out of touch he is with Indian values. It’s a deeply melodramatic moment; you can almost imagine them turning into Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini from Baghban in a couple of decades. But one thing is made absolutely clear by this early domestic drama: Shetty and Devgn don’t think too highly of the nation’s youth. This became a recurring theme even in their pre-release press interviews. They would both proudly declare that they barely resonate with the kids these days, and how, back in their day, they were roughing it out in the real world. This is a bizarre stance to take, for multiple reasons. For one, it’s always a good idea to understand younger generations. You might just learn something; just ask Javed Akhtar. But second, Singham Again is aimed at the very demographic that Shetty and Devgn have decided to
Post Credits Scene: Replete with tired plot tropes and outdated ideas, Rohit Shetty's Singham Again has plenty of stars, but not an ounce of the values that its target audience might resonate with.
infantilise.
The latest instalment in Shetty’s Cop Universe, the movie borrows brazenly from the franchise model orchestrated by Marvel; the film’s action, for instance, owes a greater creative debt to Hollywood hits than the South Indian imports that are becoming so popular in Bollywood these days. Teenagers adore the Marvel movies, and it makes sense for Shetty and his team to speak to them in a language they understand, instead of alienating them with outdated Hindi film techniques. However, the tone that Shetty takes in Singham Again is that of an uncle whose siesta has been interrupted by a bunch of boys playing cricket in the street.
At numerous points in Singham Again, Avni gives TED talks about the Ramayana. She insists that the religious epic is a piece of history, and not mythology. She even mumbles something about electromagnetic fields in a corner of Sri Lanka, and declares that they are ‘proof’ that the Ramayana is rooted in reality. Her big gripe with her son, Shaurya, is that he doesn’t take her seriously. But not once does she pause to wonder why he doesn’t share her beliefs. Perhaps he has the ability to tell the difference between fact and fiction. Who knows? Instead of having a conversation as equals, she takes a position of superiority in her interactions with him. And so does the film with its audience. In its attempts to woo the youth, the movie ends up disrespecting their intelligence. It doesn’t help that Shaurya, at least in the early scenes, is projected as a petulant and privileged brat, while his parents are basically shown to be saints. This reveals Shetty’s reluctance to gaze inwards as a storyteller — it’s obvious, for instance, that Singham and Avni are meant to reflect his own values — and contemplate his own flaws.
on 2024 Flops:
‘Not the First Time’
Akshay Kumar is one of the busiest actors in the Hindi film industry. Despite having many releases, 2024 was a dull year for Akshay as many of his movies failed at the box office. Now, Akshay is gearing up for his first release in 2025, Sky Force. At the film’s trailer launch, Akshay was asked about not having a great 2024, and he said this is not the first time that he has had a bad year. Talking about his flops in 2024, Akshay said, “It’s not like this has happened for the first time. The best thing to do is keep on working hard. I keep telling myself this, and talk about it to others too, you have to keep on working hard. Lots of people come and tell me to do a maximum of two films in a year. But if I can work more, why shouldn’t I? My entire career has been made at this pace with dedication and hard work. I have also been told not to take up content-based films, but I don’t want to do that. Even though the film didn’t work, I was very proud that I made a film like Sarfira. It is one of my best films.”
Akshay Kumar’s upcoming film Sky Force is directed by Sandeep Kewlani and Abhishek Kapur. The movie, also starring Sara Ali Khan and Veer Pahariya, is produced by Dinesh Vijan, Jyoti Deshpande, and Amar Kaushik, and will be released in theatres on January 24, 2025. Other this this, Akshay Kumar has Jolly LLB 3, Welcome To The Jungle, Housefull 5, Hera Pheri 3, and Bhoot Bangala in the pipeline.
At the trailer launch of Sky Force, Akshay Kumar revealed what was his biggest takeaway from 2024 when most of his films failed at the box office.
Salman Khan Boosts Security After Threats
Salman Khan's residence, Galaxy Apartments, is reportedly undergoing structural changes to amp up security. On Sunday, a video surfaced on the internet which showed workers
installing some security gadgets on the outer wall of Salman's building. A Times of India report stated that the workers were not only installing security gadgets, but they were also turning up the security in the widows of the building and changing the structure of the balcony. For the unversed, this comes amid the multiple death threats for the actor from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. In April 2024, gunshots were fired outside Galaxy Apartments in Mumbai.
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"What Do We Know?"
"What do we know about cricket? We do not have any idea about cricket. We just say these things for the television. Who will listen to us? We just say these things. Actually, there is no point in listening to what we say. Whatever I have said even now, please just let it go over your head,"
Biden Condemns
Trump's Plan to End Birthright Citizenship Gavaskar
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U.S. President Joe Biden said on Sunday he thought it was awful that President-elect Donald Trump was trying to do away with birthright citizenship in the United States.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Biden said the transition to Trump's government seemed to be going smoothly.
Asked ahead of the anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol whether he still thought Trump was a threat to democracy, Biden said he thought what Trump did was a "genuine threat to democracy."
Trump falsely claimed he had won the 2020 election and urged his supporters to go to the Capitol that day.
HMPV Spreading in India: ICMR
New Delhi: Amid the rising Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) scare, the top medical body - the Indian Council of Medical Research or ICMR - on Monday alerted that the virus is already in "circulation" globally, including India. However, it noted that India is wellequipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses.
The ICMR's statement came as Bengaluru reported two cases of HMPV - a 3-monthold baby who has been discharged and an 8-month-old who is recovering. The health department ruled out exposure
Elon
ICMR noted that India is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses, triggered by HPMV.
from other regions or countries, saying that the infected infants and their families have no recent travel history. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, it said. "It is emphasized that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries. Furthermore, based on current data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network, there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country," the ICMR said.
Musk, Pakistani Grooming Gangs: World's Richest Man Sparks UK Row
India Hit by Bumrah Blow Ahead of England Series
What is HMPV?
HMPV, first discovered in 2001, is a part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The symptoms commonly associated with the virus include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. HMPV can occasionally trigger pneumonia or chronic respiratory conditions. It can spread from an infected individual to others through coughing, sneezing or personal contact.
Young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing severe illness due to HMPV.
Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, has ignited a political storm in the UK by accusing Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour government of mishandling grooming gang cases. Musk alleged that Starmer, during his tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions (2008–2013), failed to address systemic issues, enabling "rape gangs" to exploit vulnerable girls. Musk also criticized safeguarding minister Jess Phillips for rejecting calls for a public inquiry into alleged grooming failures in Oldham, accusing her of shielding Starmer. He demanded a new national inquiry and called for immediate elections, labeling Phillips a "rape genocide apologist."
Labour dismissed Musk's claims as baseless, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting calling them "misinformed." Starmer’s supporters highlighted reforms he introduced in 2013 to address child exploitation.
The grooming gang scandals, involving widespread abuse by predominantly South Asian men in towns like Rotherham and Rochdale, remain a divisive issue in UK politics. While inquiries revealed systemic failures, far-right figures, including Tommy Robinson, have used these cases to fuel anti-immigrant rhetoric. Musk’s comments sparked further controversy when he questioned Robinson's imprisonment for contempt of court, drawing criticism for amplifying far-right narratives. Meanwhile, Musk distanced himself from Nigel Farage, leader of the antiimmigration Reform UK party, calling for new leadership despite previous signs of support.
Farage, rebuking Musk's stance on Robinson, insisted his imprisonment was lawful, emphasizing, “I never sell out my principles.” Musk's remarks have reignited contentious debates over grooming scandals and political accountability in the UK.
Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who sustained back spasms, is likely to be rested for the majority of India's home white-ball series against England, keeping an eye on the ICC Champions Trophy, starting from February 19. Bumrah, who was India's stand out player with 32 wickets in their 1-3 thrashing at the hands of Australia in the just-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy, couldn't bowl in the final innings of the series here after suffering back spasms. The 30-year-old Bumrah bowled
more than 150 overs in the series. The injury has a direct link to his excessive workload in the series, and the BCCI medical team will try to ensure the new Test captain is ready for the ICC showpiece where his presence is mandatory to India's fortunes. According to sources privy to the development, the grade of Bumrah's back spasm has not yet been ascertained. India will open their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai.
Michael Holding believes that Jasprit Bumrah's bowling action makes him more injury prone.
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Creation of new counties will not lend legitimacy to China’s illegal and forcible occupation
China downplays flu outbreak, declares travel safe
China on Friday played down reports of a massive outbreak of flu in the country overwhelming hospitals, saying that cases of the respiratory diseases which occur during the winter were less severe this year compared to last year.
The Foreign Ministry here said it is safe for foreigners to travel to China.
India Protests China's New "Counties" in Ladakh
New Delhi: India has conveyed its objection and protest via diplomatic channels to China after the neighbouring country set up two counties, parts of which come under the Union Territory Ladakh, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said today. Chinese state media Xinhua on December 27 reported the government of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region announced the establishment of two new counties in the region - He'an County, and Hekang County. The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, and the State Council approved the two new counties, which will be administered by Hotan Prefecture, Xinhua reported. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said parts of the "so-called counties" fall under Ladakh, and India "never accepted illegal Chinese occupation of Indian territory in this area".
H-1B Visa Debate Unites U.S. Left and Right
Bernie Sanders emphasised that the U.S. needs a highly skilled and well-educated workforce, but this should be achieved by hiring qualified American workers and investing in education, rather than relying on cheap labour from abroad.
Senator Bernie Sanders has reignited the H-1B visa debate, accusing Elon Musk of backing the program for cheap labor rather than skilled talent. Sanders argued the program replaces good-paying American jobs with low-wage foreign workers, describing it as “indentured servitude.”
Highlighting Tesla’s layoffs of 7,500 American workers while hiring H-1B employees for roles like engineers and accountants, Sanders called for investing in American education and workforce development instead of relying on cheaper foreign labor. Musk defended the program, claiming H-1B visas bring critical talent that fuels U.S. innovation, including contributions to SpaceX and Tesla. He vowed to “go to war” over the issue, emphasizing foreign workers' role in strengthening America.
The H-1B program, designed to fill specialized roles, faces criticism for allegedly prioritizing costcutting over talent. Sanders stated, “It should never be cheaper to hire a guest worker than an American.”
The debate has revealed bipartisan rifts. MAGA figures like Laura Loomer and Steve Bannon oppose the program, accusing it of undermining American workers. Meanwhile, others highlight its importance to the tech industry.
Not Retiring
Rohit Sharma said during a lunch-time interview
Rohit said his decision to sit out of Sydney was difficult but sensible, but that doesn’t change anything for his future. “Like I told you this decision is not a retirement decision nor am I going to step aside from the game, there is no such decision. I am out of the game because bat nahi chal raha hai,” Rohit said. “There is no guarantee that the bat will not work after five months, there is no guarantee that the bat will not work after two months. We have seen a lot in cricket, every minute. every second, everyday life changes. So I have this belief in myself that things will change but at the same time you know I have to be realistic as well.”
RSS 'Lathi' Training for Bravery, Not Combat: Bhagwat
Trump, the first former president ever convicted of a crime, can appear either in person or virtually at his January 10 sentencing.
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Ajudge has ordered that Donald Trump will be sentenced on 10 January in his hush-money case in New York - less than two weeks before he is set to be sworn in as president.
New York Justice Juan Merchan signalled he would not sentence Trump to jail time, probation or a fine, but instead give him an "unconditional discharge", and wrote in his order that the president-elect could appear in person or virtually for the hearing. Trump had attempted to use his
Indore: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) does not train its cadres to use the 'lathi' or stick for fighting or public display, but because it instills bravery and teaches one to be steadfast, the organisation's chief Mohan Bhagwat said on Friday. "A person who wields the lathi develops 'veer vritthi' (sense of bravery) and he is not afraid. The lathi training teaches steadfastness in crises and inspires one to walk on the path with resolve, patience and unwavering strength," the RSS chief asserted.
Mr Bhagwat was speaking at the 'Swar Shatak Malwa' programme in Indore city where 870 Sangh volunteers played traditional musical instruments in a group performance. Indian and traditional music teaches harmony, goodwill and discipline, and frees one of useless attractions, leading the person to the righteous path, he further said.
Trump sentencing
No jail for hush money case
presidential election victory to have the case against him dismissed.
The president-elect has posted on social media dismissing the judge's order as an "illegitimate political attack" and calling the case "nothing but a rigged charade".
Trump was convicted in May of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records
related to a $130,000 (£105,000) payment to adult-film star Stormy Daniels. The charges related to attempts to cover up reimbursements to his ex-lawyer, Michael Cohen, who in the final days of the 2016 election campaign paid off the adult-film star to remain silent about an alleged sexual encounter with Trump.
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When you (Vinod Kambli) are better and come out, I will come to meet you. Look after yourself
PM Modi's Initiative Praised by Shah Rukh, Akshay
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's latest initiative - under 'Create in India' - to take Indian cinema and content global at a faster pace and greater scale - has earned praise from industry stalwarts Shah Rukh Khan and Akshay Kumar. In 2024's last 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address to the nation on December 29, PM Modi announced that India will host the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit or WAVES for the first time in February.
Gambhir: Rohit's Spot Depends on Pitch Conditions
Speculations over the future of Indian captain Rohit Sharma intensified on the eve of the final BGT Test at Sydney. Coach Gautam Gambhir, turning up for the pre-match press conference, said Rohit’s place in the playing XI will be decided after having a look at the pitch on the morning of the match.
When asked if Rohit was playing the Sydney Test, Gambhir said: “We shall look at the pitch and take a call tomorrow”. The Indian skipper is averaging 6.20 in the ongoing series. Rohit’s long run slump and a series of lame dismissals in the first four Tests of the BGT have been the reasons, his place in the side has been questioned in the media. After the press conference, Gambhir would resume his discussion with Bumrah, who led the team at Perth, the only Test that India won.
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"Anna University Sexual Assault Case Being Politicised": Madras High Court
Chennai: The Madras High Court today said that the alleged sexual assault case at Anna University is "being politicised". The remark came during a hearing where Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK)'s counsel raised concerns about the denial of police permission for a planned protest in Chennai over the incident.
"Anna University sexual assault case is being politicised. There is no genuine concentration on women's safety," the High Court observed.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has formed a two-member factfinding committee including retired IPS officer Praveen Dixit. Over a two-day investigation, the committee visited the university, met with the victim, her family, authorities, and NGOs, and assessed campus security. In a post on X, the NCW stated: "To ensure accountability, the NCW assessed security at Anna
The incident occurred on December 23, when a 19-year-old engineering student was allegedly sexually assaulted on the Anna University campus.
University, met the SIT, and engaged stakeholders... A detailed report with actionable recommendations was
prepared."
The incident occurred on December 23, when a 19-year-old engineering student was allegedly sexually assaulted on the Anna University campus. The victim, in her complaint, said that the assailant had attacked her and her male friend, brutally assaulting the latter before dragging her into nearby shrubs where the assault occurred.
The accused, identified as Gnanasekaran, a roadside biryani vendor, was arrested shortly after the complaint was filed. According to police, Gnanasekaran has a long criminal record.
In response to the public and political outcry, the Madras High Court directed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising three senior IPS officers to probe the case.
Andhra CM Naidu on Adani Contract: 'No Action Without Clear Proof'
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Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has said that the Solar Energy Corporation of India’s agreement to purchase power from the Adani Group was an advantage for the state government and any action on the bribery charges would be taken only after a thorough examination of the records.
“We will move ahead as per the provisions of law after examining the records,” Naidu said on Wednesday while speaking with the media at the TDP’s headquarters at Mangalagiri.
On Tuesday, speaking at Vijayawada,
the CM said that the state government cannot scrap contracts unless there is adequate proof of irregularities. “We have to pay high penalties if we scrap the contracts. Unless there is clear proof, we cannot take action,” he said.
The development comes more than a
New Orleans Army Vet's Tesla in Vegas Found with Fireworks, Fuel Cans
Law enforcement is investigating whether the New Orleans truck attack in which at least 15 people were killed was connected to the Tesla truck fire in front of the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, in which one person was killed, US President Joe Biden said.
Biden said Wednesday evening that the FBI had found videos that the New Orleans driver had posted to social media hours before the attack, in which he said he was inspired by the Islamic State group and expressed a desire to kill.
In Nevada, firework mortars and camp fuel canisters were found stuffed into the back of the Tesla Cybertruck that exploded outside US President-elect
US President Joe Biden says investigators probing if the two attacks on New Year’s Day that killed a total of 16 people are related
Donald Trump's Las Vegas hotel early Wednesday, killing a suspect inside the vehicle and sparking an intense investigation into possible terrorism.
Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the 42-year-old Texas man accused of crashing the truck into New Year's Day revelers in New Orleans, served in the US Army for 13 years including a deployment to Afghanistan, the army said. Federal officials and local law enforcement in New Orleans said that Jabbar did not act alone and that they are looking for accomplices.
The FBI said Jabbar had an Islamic State flag on his truck. The Islamic State, or ISIS, is a Sunni Muslim militant group which has carried out attacks throughout the world.
Jabbar died at the scene in a shootout with police, officials said.
month after Gautam Adani’s indictment in the United States over allegations of bribing Indian government officials for securing “lucrative solar energy supply contracts”. Speaking in the Legislative Assembly on November 22, Naidu had said that his government was in possession of the US indictment reports, and action would be taken if irregularities are found.
On Wednesday, Naidu made it clear that he will never resort to vindictive politics, but emphasised that he will not leave those who commit blunders. “However big one may be, he or she is equal before the law,” he said.
Attack
15 were killed and dozens wounded when Jabbar allegedly drove a truck at high speed into a crowd.
New Orleans, United States: The New Orleans attack suspect, identified by the FBI as 42-year-old US citizen Shamsud-Din Jabbar, appeared to be a real estate agent from Texas who served for years in the military but experienced financial difficulties and divorce. In a video posted on YouTube four years ago, Jabbar -- speaking with a southern US accent -- boasted of his skills as a "fierce negotiator" as he advertised his property management services to potential clients. The Pentagon said Jabbar had served in the army as a human resource specialist and an IT specialist from 2007 to 2015, and then in the army reserve until 2020.
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Shamsud-Din Jabbar: Vet Suspect in New Orleans
"I think it probably means that (if) India don't qualify for the WTC final, the Melbourne Test will be Rohit Sharma's last game," Gavaskar
New Orleans Attacker Supported ISIS: Biden
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Washington:
New Orleans attacker ShamsudDin Jabbar acted alone even though there are indications that he had strong support for ISIS, US President Joe Biden has said. At least 14 people were killed and 35 others were injured after Jabbar drove his pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street early Wednesday.
The FBI is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism. Jabbar, 42, a former veteran, also died in a shootout with the local police. A resident of Houston, he drove to New Orleans.
“Today, the FBI briefed me that, as of now, we have no information that anyone else is involved in the attack. They've established that the attacker was the same person who planted the explosives in those ice coolers in two nearby locations in the French Quarter just a few hours before he rammed into the crowd with his vehicle,” Biden told reporters at the White House on Thursday.
Jake Sullivan to Visit India
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is set to visit India early next week to take stock of the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET).
The iCET represents a landmark initiative between the two countries in areas of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, biotech, and defence innovation.
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1,675 Flats, 2 Urban Redevelopment Projects: PM Modi's Big Infra Push In Delhi
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New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 1,675 flats for 'Jhuggi
- Jhopri' (JJ) clusters and two urban redevelopment projects in the national capital today.
"Today, India has become a symbol of political and economic stability. This role of India will strengthen even more in 2025. This year will be the year to strengthen India's position in the world. It will be the year of making India one of the biggest manufacturing centres in the world..." PM Modi said at the inauguration event at Ashok Vihar's Ramlila Ground.
marked the completion of the second successful In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA).
PM Modi handed over the keys to eligible beneficiaries of EWS flats at Swabhiman Apartments in the Ashok Vihar area.
Taking to his X handle, PM Modi earlier said this was an important day for Delhi's development.
"Today is an important day for Delhi's development. At a programme in Ashok Vihar, will be inaugurating and laying the foundation stones for
The inauguration of newly constructed flats marked the completion of the second successful In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation Project by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA).
a wide range of development works which will boost 'Ease of Living' for the people of Delhi," he said. The inauguration of newly constructed flats
China Faces New Virus Outbreak Five Years After Covid
China is dealing with an outbreak of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), five years after the Covid-19 pandemic. Reports and social media posts suggest that the virus is spreading rapidly, with some claiming that hospitals and crematories are overwhelmed.
Videos shared online show crowded hospitals, with some users saying that multiple viruses, including influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and
Crisis
China is facing a new virus outbreak, with the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) spreading rapidly, causing flulike and COVID-19-like symptoms.
Covid-19, are circulating. There are even claims that China has declared a state of emergency, though this has not been confirmed. HMPV is known to cause flu-like symptoms and can also present symptoms similar to Covid-19. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation as the virus spreads.
A social media post by an X handle known as 'SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19)' wrote in a post: "China is facing a surge in multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19, overwhelming hospitals and crematoriums. Children's hospitals are particularly strained by rising pneumonia and "white lung" cases."
For every Rs 25 lakh spent on the construction of a flat by the central government, the eligible beneficiaries pay less than seven per cent of the total amount, comprising Rs 1.42 lakh as a nominal contribution and Rs 30,000 for five years of maintenance. The development push from the BJP-led central government comes ahead of assembly polls in Delhi, expected in February. PM Modi also inaugurated two urban redevelopment projects -- the World Trade Centre at Nauroji Nagar and the General Pool Residential Accommodation (GPRA) Type-II quarters at Sarojini Nagar.
Delhi Fog Disrupts Flights and Trains
New Delhi: Dense fog enveloped various parts of North India, bringing visibility and temperatures down and impacting train and flight operations. At Delhi's India Gandhi International Airport, 202 flights were delayed as visibility came down to zero. As per the past 24 hours data of the IMD, Delhi witnessed a maximum temperature of 16 degrees Celsius, a departure of three degrees below normal and and minimum of 7.6 degrees Celsius. Delhi is expected to witness fog till January 8, with light rain likely on January 6. The temperature in Delhi as of Friday morning was 9.6 degrees Celsius, making it the fifth cold day in a row for the National Capital.
US Seeks To End Work Permits For International Students, May Impact Indians
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, which allows international students, including those from India, to gain work experience in the US after graduation, is facing scrutiny amid growing concerns over foreign worker programmes. The OPT programme has been criticised for being exploited to fill American jobs, with some arguing it's being used as a long-term immigration pathway, bypassing traditional channels. Originally designed for temporary skill development, the OPT programme permits foreign students on F-1 visas to work in the US for up to three years if they have a STEM degree. Critics claim it operates without Congressional approval and competes with US graduates for job opportunities, calling it a "backdoor"
The OPT program has been criticised for being exploited to fill American jobs, with some arguing it's being used as a long-term immigration pathway, bypassing traditional channels.
entry into the US job market. US Tech Workers group has opposed the programme and said "The OPT programme is a guest worker scheme
disguised as an internship for foreign students. Universities are selling work permits instead of education. Created illegally like DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), Trump should end OPT to protect American college grads from unfair competition," on X. Moreover, Indian students rely on the programme for professional opportunities and H-1B visas. The Washington Alliance of Technology Workers (WashTech) took the programme to court in 2023, declaring that it harms American workers. However, a lower court's ruling was upholded, which validated the programme. Eliminating OPT could impact the appeal of US universities for international students, affecting the financial and academic resources they provide.
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Rohit chose to sit out
Pravasi Divas Honors 3 Indian Americans for Global Impact and Leadership
The Government of India has announced the recipients of the prestigious 2025 Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards (PBSA) on January 3. Among the honorees are three distinguished Indian Americans: Dr. Sharad Lakhanpal, Sharmila Ford, and Ravi Kumar S., along with 24 other eminent members of the global Indian diaspora. The awards, celebrating outstanding contributions by overseas Indians in various fields, will be presented during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, scheduled to take place in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, 2025.
Kumar S., Tech, CA
Indian American Honorees:
Dr. Sharad Lakhanpal, Medical Science, TX
A leading rheumatologist based in Dallas, Dr. Lakhanpal is being honored for his exceptional contributions to rheumatology. As a Clinical Professor of Internal Medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, he has significantly advanced medical research and clinical trials. His influence extends globally through his tenure as the President of the American College of Rheumatology, and his lectures
Congressman Shri Thanedar Calls for National Decriminalization of Sex Work
WASHINGTON, DC- Democratic Congressman Shri Thanedar has called for the nationwide decriminaliza-tion of sex work, emphasizing the need for legal protections for sex workers. On January 2, Thanedar took to Twitter to argue that decriminalization would enable sex workers to report abuse and crimes without fear of prosecution, thereby enhancing their safety and rights.
Thanedar highlighted that such a move could also help prevent the trafficking and exploitation of minors. “Decriminalization and regulation would prevent trafficking and exploitation of minors while maximizing sex workers’ legal protection and access to justice, unionization, and health care,” he tweeted. Currently, sex work is only legal in Nevada, where it is heavily regulated. Thanedar’s comments come in response to a House Ethics Committee report alleging that Republican Representative Matt Gaetz violated state statutory rape laws and paid women for sex during his time in office. The report includes testimony from a woman who claimed she had sex with Gaetz at age 17 and was paid $400. Thanedar’s stance adds momentum to the broader debate on how best to protect sex workers' rights while combating exploitation and abuse.
worldwide have furthered the field of rheumatology.
Sharmila Ford, Community Service, MI
A dedicated advocate for preserving Bengali culture and spirituality, Sharmila Ford has worked tirelessly as a prominent member of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Married to Alfred Ford, the great-grandson of Henry Ford, she has supported the development of the Chandrodaya Temple in Mayapur, West Bengal, and advanced ISKCON’s global initiatives.
As the CEO of Cognizant Technology Solutions, Ravi Kumar S. is recognized for his transformative leader-ship in the IT and consulting industries. His contributions have not only driven excellence in the tech sector but have also strengthened the U.S.-India relationship through strategic and impactful initiatives. The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards are the highest honor conferred on overseas Indians, acknowledg-ing their achievements and contributions to their respective fields and to India's global outreach.
Dr. Amarjit Singh Marwah, Iconic Sikh Leader and Philanthropist, Dies at 99
MALIBU, CA – Dr. Amarjit Singh Marwah, a distinguished philanthropist and community leader, passed away peacefully on January 7 at 99. Renowned for his contributions to arts, culture, education, and humanitari-an efforts, Dr. Marwah's legacy resonates across diverse communities.
Arriving in the U.S. on a Fulbright
scholarship in 1950, he settled in California in 1962, becoming a prominent dentist for Hollywood celebrities and a successful real estate investor. Beyond his professional suc-cess, Dr. Marwah’s enduring impact came from his commitment to uplifting others.
In 1969, he established the Hollywood Sikh Temple, the first Sikh temple in the U.S., donating the building and land. His role in supporting Dalip Singh Saund’s historic congressional campaign in the 1950s under-scored his advocacy for Sikh and Indian American representation.
Dr. Marwah championed education by founding KK Marwah Girls College in Faridkot and building an audito-rium at Mahindra College in Patiala, honoring his late wife, Kuljit K. Marwah. He adopted two villages in Punjab, Guru Ki Dhab and Guru Nanak Basti.
U.S. to Refund $55 Million in Application Fees to Immigrants After Court Blocks Program
WASHINGTON, DC- The U.S. government will refund nearly $55 million in application fees to about 94,000 unauthorized immigrants who sought benefits through a Biden administration program struck down by a federal court. Each applicant, who paid $580, will receive a full refund, according to internal documents obtained by CBS News.
The program, announced in June as part of the Keeping Families Together initiative, aimed to grant tem-porary
The program aimed to help undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens
legal status and a path to permanent residency for certain undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens. Applicants had to meet specific criteria, including over 10 years of U.S. residency and no se-rious criminal records. The policy also offered protections for undocumented stepchildren of U.S. citizens, providing work authorization
and residency pathways without triggering reentry bans.
However, the program was halted after a Texas federal judge ruled it exceeded executive authority, siding with Republican-led states. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) was ordered to stop pro-cessing applications and accepting new ones.
In response, USCIS confirmed plans to refund fees to all applicants, stating, “It is in the public interest to refund fees paid by applicants who sought benefits in good faith.” Refunds will be processed automatically.
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Dr. Amarjit Singh Marwah
India-Based Chemical Companies and Executive Charged in Fentanyl Trafficking Conspiracy
founder of Raxuter Chemicals arrested on Jan 4th in New York
NEW YORK, NY- Two India-based companies, Raxuter Chemicals and Athos Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., along with Bhavesh Lathiya, a founder of Raxuter Chemicals, face federal charges for allegedly distributing and im-porting fentanyl precursor chemicals into the U.S. Lathiya was arrested on Jan. 4 in New York City and is detained pending trial.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized the Justice Department's commitment to dismantling fentanyl supply chains, holding companies and individuals accountable.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas underscored the international reach of fentanyl trafficking and pledged continued efforts to combat it.
The indictments allege that the defendants knowingly distributed
Raja Krishnamoorthi Recites Gita at Interfaith Service
and
WASHINGTON, DC – On the first day of the 119th Congress, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi spoke at the Bipartisan Interfaith Prayer Service, where he read a passage from the Bhagavad-Gita. The purpose of the bipartisan service is to bless the new Congress before it is officially constituted for another two-year term.
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi was the only speaker to represent the Hindu faith. Other speakers at the widely attended service included Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Democratic Leader Ha-keem Jeffries (D-NY).
“Years ago, Hindu Americans were not included at prayer services in our nation’s capital,” said Congress-man Raja Krishnamoorthi. “I’m grateful that we now have a seat at the table and that I can play a part in spreading the beautiful blessings of the Hindu faith to my colleagues, both Republican and Democrat. To-gether we prayed for peace and prosperity, and in doing so are better equipped to tackle our nation’s toughest challenges ahead.”
fentanyl precursors, including 1-boc4-piperidone, to the U.S. and Mexico, often using deceptive practices like
mislabeling packages. For example, a package shipped in June 2024 was falsely labeled as Vitamin C.
Mohamed Diarra Admits Guilt in Sextortion, Money Laundering Scheme
DELAWARE- A Delaware man, Mohamed Diarra, 33, of Wilmington, pleaded guilty to his role in an international sextortion and money laundering conspiracy spanning from May 2020 to December 2022.
Court documents reveal that Diarra collaborated with co-conspirators in Côte d’Ivoire to extort victims by fraudulently obtaining their sexual content, threatening its dissemination, and demanding payment to pre-vent it. Diarra operated as a “money mule,” laundering victims’ payments through his financial accounts and those of others under his control. He also recruited additional individuals to participate in the scheme. The conspiracy utilized various methods
to collect and launder funds, including peer-to-peer (P2P) payment services, linked U.S. bank accounts, and cash withdrawals. Funds were ultimately transferred to co-conspirators in Côte d’Ivoire and other international locations. Diarra pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in money laundering, a charge carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. His sentencing will be scheduled at a later date, with the court considering U.S. Sen-tencing Guidelines and statutory factors.
The case is led by the FBI, with support from the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and Côte d’Ivoire authorities. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brent S. Wible, U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss, and FBI Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough announced the plea.
Prosecutors include Trial Attorney Austin M. Berry, Senior Trial Attorney Mona Sedky, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Briana Knox.
Two Bodies Found in JetBlue Airplane's Landing Gear Compartment
The discovery was made after 11 p.m. during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection, according to a statement released by JetBlue.
"At this time, the identities of the individuals and the circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation," JetBlue stated. The airline described the incident as a "heartbreaking situation" and pledged full cooperation with authorities to determine how this occurred.
As of Tuesday, the names of the deceased had not been released, and further details regarding the incident were unavailable.
Undercover operations revealed Lathiya’s direct involvement in negotiating sales, with shipments misdeclared as antacids.
Athos Chemicals is accused of supplying 100 kilograms of fentanyl precursors to a Mexican drug trafficker linked to a major cartel. These precursors reportedly facilitated large-scale fentanyl production in clandes-tine labs in Mexico, fueling the opioid epidemic in the U.S.
If convicted, Lathiya faces up to 53 years in prison. Authorities continue their global efforts to disrupt the fentanyl supply chain. An indictment is not a conviction, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
SACRAMENTO, CA – The Sacramento Suvidha International Foundation, in collaboration with the Rotary E-Club of Silicon Valley Health & Wellness and the Rotary Club of Rancho Cordova, distributed over 500 winter clothing items to students and families in need at Kinney High School, Rancho Cordova. Held in December, the initiative provided jackets, sweaters, socks, jeans, and scarves to those facing eco-nomic challenges. Many recipients at Kinney High come from underprivileged backgrounds, making this drive a vital resource.
Initially organized by the Rotary Club of Rancho Cordova, the campaign gained momentum under Suvidha Foundation’s leadership at the request of Mayor Siri Pulipati. Supported by 22 youth volunteers and Rotary members, the drive exceeded expectations, collecting far more than the original goal of 100 jackets.
Emma Falcon, Community Schools Facilitator, expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting its impact on fostering community care. Suvidha Foundation President Bhaskar Vempati credited the collective ef-forts of volunteers and partners for the success. This initiative not only met immediate needs but also strengthened community bonds, exemplifying the power of collaboration in addressing local challenges.
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Bhavesh Lathiya, a founder of Raxuter Chemicals
Bhavesh Lathiya, a
Congressman Krishnamoorthi, his son,
his parents outside Saint Peter’s Church on Capitol Hill before the Congressman’s reading from the Bhagavad-Gita.
NEW YORK, NY- Authorities discovered two bodies inside the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue airplane that arrived at Fort LauderdaleHollywood International Airport from JFK Airport on Monday night.
Indian American Owners Rebuild, Sell $1.22B Ticket
LOS ANGELES, CA – Jaspal Singh and his son, Ishar Gill, owners of Sunshine Food and Gas in Cottonwood, Shasta County, have overcome immense challenges and found incredible success. After a devastating fire destroyed their Circle K convenience store in August 2021, the family rebuilt from scratch, reopening in March 2023. Reflecting on their journey, they shared on Facebook, “We were determined to come back stronger.”
Their perseverance paid off in a remarkable way. On December 27, their store sold a winning Mega Mil-lions ticket worth $1.22 billion, the fifth-largest jackpot in U.S. history. The winning numbers—3, 7, 37, 49, 55, and the Mega Ball 6—brought hope and joy to the small community of Cottonwood, with a population of 6,000, located 150 miles north of Sacramento. Gill, the store’s operations director, called the win “a blessing” for their family and the town. Recalling the moment, he said, “I had to read it two, three times,” before sharing the news with his father, who was equally stunned. Although the store's share of the jackpot is capped at $1 million, the family plans to reinvest in Cotton-wood, aiming to uplift their resilient community. The jackpot winner has yet to come forward, and details about the ticket purchase remain unknown. “We aren’t going anywhere,” Singh and Gill emphasized, expressing excitement about their town's new-found recognition and commitment to its future.
U.S. Surgeon General Advocates Cancer Warnings on Alcohol Labels
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has proposed that alcoholic beverages carry cancer risk warnings, emphasizing that alcohol consumption increases the likelihood of at least seven types of cancer, including breast, colon, and liver cancers. Speaking on December 3, Murthy called for updated guidelines on alcohol consumption to help the public make informed decisions. Currently, U.S. dietary guidelines recommend a maximum of two drinks per day for men and one for women.
Murthy highlighted that alcohol is the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the U.S., after tobacco and obesity. Existing warnings on alcohol packaging, introduced in 1988, focus on risks like birth defects and impaired judgment but do not address cancer. The Surgeon General's call for enhanced labels mirrors early tobacco regulations,
which began with warning labels in the 1960s.
The announcement caused alcohol company shares, including Diageo and Heineken, to dip. Analysts sug-gest the move may not immediately harm the industry but could contribute to longterm challenges, in-cluding competition from cannabis and growing interest in low- or no-alcohol beverages.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also intensified its focus on alcohol, stating that no level of consumption is safe. In the U.S., alcohol contributes to 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 deaths annually, surpassing the 13,500 deaths caused by alcohol-related traffic accidents.
The ultimate decision on labeling changes rests with Congress, as Murthy’s advisory echoes growing public health concerns around alcohol’s societal impact.
LIFESTYLE
Aries
Author Bio:
Chirag Daruwalla is the best celebrity astrologer who is one of the most famous names in the astrology world. Chirag Daruwalla has more than 18+ years of experience. You can ask for any advice related to career, health, finance, business, money, and love marriage. He has complete knowledge, solutions, and guidance to all the problems related to life. If you want to avail his astrological services then you can visit his website chiragdaruwalla.com. For guidance on problems related to your life, you can talk to Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla on Call/ Whatsapp: +91 8141566266 or also mail: info@ chiragdaruwalla.com
10th Januaryr 2024 to 16th January 2025
Ganesha says that this week is going to be very busy for the people of Aries zodiac sign. At the beginning of the week, you may have to travel long or short distances in connection with career business. The journey will be very tiring and less fruitful than expected. This week you will need to pay a lot of attention to your health and relationships.
Taurus
Ganesha says that this week will bring auspiciousness and good fortune for the people of the Taurus zodiac sign. Efforts made for a career or business at the beginning of the week will be successful. This time will prove to be very auspicious for people associated with business.
Gemini
Ganesha says that the people of the Gemini zodiac will remain depressed this week due to not getting timely help from their colleagues and wellwishers. Opponents in the workplace may create obstacles in your work to humiliate you.
Cancer
Ganesha says that this week brings good luck for people of the Cancer zodiac sign. At the beginning of the week, with the help of well-wishers, the planned tasks will be completed on time. Both seniors and juniors will be completely kind to you in the workplace.
Leo
Ganesha says that people of the Leo zodiac sign will get full support of good luck this week. In such a situation, whether your loved ones support you or not, you will be accepted only after proving your strength in front of everyone on the basis of your ability. This week you will get an opportunity to work on a big project.
Virgo Ganesha says that this week will bring auspiciousness and success for the people of the Virgo zodiac sign. Travel undertaken in connection with career and business at the beginning of the week will prove to be auspicious and beneficial. With the help of an influential person, you will get opportunities to take the business forward.
Ganesha says that this week is going to be a bit hectic for the people of the Libra zodiac. At the beginning of the week, you may have to visit courts to resolve disputes related to land and buildings or to get ancestral property. Your opponents may conspire to spoil your work, but you will be successful in thwarting them with the help of your wellwishers.
Scorpio
Ganesha says that people of Scorpio zodiac this week will be successful in doing all their work better and on time with the help of their intelligence and discretion. This week you will get full support of good luck, with the help of which you will get desired success in any endeavor you make in any field and your respect in society will increase.
Sagittarius
Ganesha says that Sagittarius people will have to manage both their time and money this week. This week, do not make the mistake of postponing any important work till tomorrow, otherwise, your finished work may get spoiled.
Capricorn
Ganesha says that this week is going to be a mixed one for the people of Capricorn. At the beginning of the week, employed people may face some difficulties in the workplace. Your hard work and efforts may be ignored, due to which you will feel a little sad.
Aquarius
Ganesha says that if the people of the Aquarius sign use their intelligence and discretion properly this week, then they can achieve more success than expected in their careers and business.
Pisces
Ganesha says that people of the Pisces sign should think ten times before taking any big step related to life this week. Avoid doing any work in a hurry, otherwise, you may have to suffer loss instead of profit.
HiIndia Newsdesk
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( Celebrity Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla)
Libra
The Hindu Mandir of Lake County Welcomes 2025 with Devotion and Joy
GRAYSLAKE, IL – The Hindu Mandir of Lake County organized a grand Welcome 2025 program on the morning of Tuesday, December 31, 2024. The temple priests—Pt. Anil Joshi Ji, Pt. Balaji Gopal, and Pt. Ra-dha Krishna— performed the Ganesh Puja, Shri Ram Parivar Puja, and Navagraha Puja with great devotion. Following the sponsors’ Sankalpam, Vyasa Pith and Ramayana Puja were conducted with adherence to Ve-dic rituals, showcasing deep reverence and admiration.
The program featured a 24hour Ramayana recitation initiated by Madhup Dhoan and Avinash, accompanied by a team of dedicated chanters. As the clock struck midnight, the temple resonated with the sounds of conch shells and puja bells, marking the arrival of 2025. The event concluded with a Maha Mangalarati and distribution of Prasadam to all devotees, who gathered in large numbers to welcome the New Year with fervor and joy.
On January 1, 2025, around noon, the Ramayana recitation concluded with great reverence. The event continued with soul-stirring Bhajans by Rita Patel and Kamalesh Desai. Pt. Anil Joshi Ji delivered a thought-provoking
Temple President Manoj Adhikhari shared the joyous news that the temple is now mortgage-free, expressing gratitude to all the devotees for their support in achieving this milestone.
discourse on “Lord Rama’s Nija Dharma,” highlighting His divine virtues and unwavering commitment to upholding Dharma in every action. Pt. Joshi Ji emphasized the importance of fulfilling
Traffic Deaths Increased in New Jersey in 2024
NEW JERSEY — New Jersey witnessed a sharp rise in traffic-related fatalities in 2024, with pedestrian deaths reaching their highest levels since 1988, according to data from the New Jersey State Police (NJSP).
In 2024, 650 fatal crashes resulted in 687 deaths, marking a 13.4% increase from 2023. Pedestrian fatalities surged to 221, compared to 171 in 2023, nearing the record high of 239 deaths in 1988.
The rise in fatalities coincides with broader trends observed over recent years. Between 2019 and 2022, New Jersey experienced a 26% increase in traffic deaths, driven in part by reckless driving and substance use. While alcohol-related fatalities decreased by 18% in 2023, NJSP data shows drugs or alcohol were present in 31% of crashes where testing was conducted. Matthew Reilly, spokesperson for the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, highlighted speeding and dis-tracted driving as major contributors. "Every life lost on our roads is a profound loss for families and com-munities," Reilly said, urging drivers to prioritize safety through slower speeds, focused attention, and so-ber driving.
In response, New Jersey intensified enforcement efforts with the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" cam-paign, distributing $732,400 in grants to local law enforcement.
one’s responsibilities towards family, community, religious institutions, nature, and the nation.
In a heartwarming announcement, Temple President Manoj Adhikhari shared the joyous news that the temple is now mortgagefree, expressing gratitude to all the devotees for their support in achieving this milestone. Devotees lined up to offer prayers and participate in the Maha Mangal Aarati, marking the New Year with piety. The temple’s kitchen committee, led by Pramila Dutta and her team, prepared and distrib-uted Maha Prasadam to all attendees.
The celebrations concluded in the afternoon with the Poolangi Seva for Lord Balaji. In this special Seva, Lord Balaji was adorned with exquisite flower garlands, sourced fresh from India, decorating Him from head to toe. Hundreds of devotees gathered to witness this mesmerizing Alankaram and receive His divine blessings. The Welcome 2025 program was a resounding success, bringing the community together in devotion, gratitude, and joy to usher in the New Year.
Ajit Pai Backs TikTok Ban, Challenges Trump
WASHINGTON, DCAjit Pai, former FCC chairman under Donald Trump, is urging the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold legislation forcing TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell the platform or halt U.S. operations. In a recent brief co-authored with former Treasury official Thomas Feddo, Pai emphasized national security concerns linked to Chinese-controlled companies.
This stance contrasts with Trump’s current efforts to delay ByteDance’s compliance deadline. Despite the divergence, Pai’s advocacy aligns with Trump-era policies targeting perceived security risks from Chinese entities.
As FCC chairman, Pai spearheaded actions against Chinese telecom firms Huawei and ZTE, labeling them security threats.
The FCC barred U.S. telecom providers from using government funds to purchase their equipment, citing espionage risks linked to the Chinese government. Pai now compares these efforts to the proposed TikTok ban, arguing the Protecting Americans from For-eign Adversary Controlled Applications Act parallels prior crackdowns. He described Congress and execu-tive actions identifying Chinese-controlled firms as national security threats as “extremely similar.” While Trump initially pursued a TikTok ban in 2020, his current opposition to the enforcement deadline marks a strategic shift.
New Jersey Minimum Wage to Increase in 2025
NEW JERSEY — Starting January 1, 2025, New Jersey’s minimum wage will rise to $15.49 per hour, up by 36 cents, under a 2019 law tying increases to inflation or the Consumer Price Index. While the increase aims to help workers offset rising costs, analysts argue it falls short of a "living wage."
For full-time workers, this adjustment adds $14.40 weekly, bringing annual earnings to $31,595—well be-low the $84,278 living wage calculated by MIT or the $64,463 suggested by GoBankingRates. Seasonal and small employers, exempt until 2026, will see their minimum wage rise to $14.53. Agricultural workers, set to hit $15 by 2027, will earn $13.40 per hour in 2025. Tipped employees’ base wage will rise from $5.26 to $5.62, while direct care staff in long-term care facilities will see a modest increase to $18.49.
Advocacy group New Jersey Policy Perspective (NJPP) calls for a $20 minimum wage and eliminating ex-emptions for tipped workers, farmworkers, and others. NJPP highlights that the minimum wage's purchas-ing power has declined, with $15 in 2018 worth nearly $19 today. Raising wages and closing exemptions, they argue, would reduce inequality and improve life for New Jersey families.
CHP Warns of Scammers Posing as AMBER Alert Representatives
CALIFORNIA- The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is cautioning the public about a new scam involving indi-viduals pretending to be "AMBER Alert representatives" and offering to "register" children. According to a statement posted by the CHP on Saturday, these fraudsters request confidential information and even propose home visits. The CHP emphasized, “This is not how the AMBER Alert system works.”
The agency clarified that no registration is ever required for the AMBER Alert system.
AMBER, which stands for America's Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response, is a tool activated solely by law enforcement agencies when investigating cases of abducted or missing children. The alerts are de-signed to provide the public with immediate information to help locate a child in danger.
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Pickup Truck Attack in New Orleans Investigated as Terrorism
NEW ORLEAN-A driver rammed a pickup truck into a crowd in New Orleans’ French Quarter on New Year’s Day, killing 15 people and injuring over 30 in what the FBI is investigating as an act of terrorism. The attack occurred around 3:15 a.m. on Bourbon Street. The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, was killed in a firefight with police.
Law enforcement reported that Jabbar rented the truck through Turo, a vehiclesharing app. FBI agents discovered weapons and potential IEDs in the truck, alongside an Islamic State group flag. Additional ex-plosives were found nearby. Officials said Jabbar posted videos on social media hours before the attack, expressing allegiance to ISIS and intent to kill.
Jabbar, a former Army staff sergeant, served from 2007 to 2020, including a deployment to Afghanistan. His
Google CEO Sundar Pichai Sets
Bold Vision for AI Leadership in 2025
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA – Google CEO Sundar Pichai has outlined an ambitious roadmap for 2025, emphasizing artificial intelligence (AI) as the company's top priority. In a recent strategy meeting, Pichai urged employees to embrace the urgency of the moment as Google navigates a pivotal period in the AI space.
"The stakes are high," Pichai stated, highlighting the disruptive potential of AI technologies. Central to this strategy is Google’s Gemini app, which has shown significant progress in generative AI but still requires work to solidify its leadership position. Pichai announced plans to scale Gemini, aiming to attract 500 mil-lion users by 2025, positioning it alongside Google’s flagship products. The meeting also showcased upcoming AI tools, including the Jules coding assistant and NotebookLM, an AI-powered notetaking product. Despite increased competition and legal scrutiny over Google’s alleged monopoly practices, Pichai stressed the importance of maintaining focus.
“Success doesn’t require being first,” Pichai noted. “It’s about executing well and delivering the best prod-uct.” With a bold vision for AI and a commitment to societal impact, Google is poised for a transformative year, tackling challenges while driving innovation in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
military background is under scrutiny as investigators probe his motives and possible accomplices.
President Joe Biden confirmed the FBI is examining Jabbar’s potential connections to ISIS, noting that vid-eos suggest the attack was inspired by the terrorist
42-Year-Old Shamsud-Din Jabbar rammed a truck into New Orleans revelers, killing 15, 30+ injured, he was killed in police shootout
organization. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage of individuals suspected of aiding Jabbar in placing explosives.
Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick condemned Jabbar’s actions, describing him as “hell-bent on creat-ing carnage.”
Two police officers were shot during the incident but remain in stable condition.
Turo expressed heartbreak over the incident, stating their commitment to cooperating with law enforce-ment. The investigation continues, with the FBI actively seeking potential associates of Jabbar. This tragedy underscores the ongoing threat of terrorism and has prompted calls for heightened security measures nationwide.
Hindus Advocate for Dedicated Prayer Room at Brown University
RHODE ISLAND, NY- Hindus are urging Brown University, a prestigious Ivy League institution in Providence, Rhode Island, to establish a permanent and dedicated Hindu Prayer Room on campus. The university cur-rently provides designated spaces for Catholic, Muslim, and Jewish communities.
In a statement issued from Nevada, Rajan Zed, President of the Universal Society of Hinduism, emphasized the need for a designated prayer and meditation space to accommodate the spiritual practices of Hindu students.
Such a space would support personal growth through rituals, quiet reflection, festivals, and spir-itual exercises.
Zed highlighted the significance of this request, citing the presence of a substantial Hindu student popula-tion at Brown. "Meeting the spiritual needs of these students with a dedicated Hindu Prayer Room would be a step in the right direction," he stated. Similar facilities are already available at several universities across the United States.
Zed proposed that the room include a shrine with murtis (statues) of key
Virginia Schools Limit Classroom Phone Use
The statewide guidance requires students to turn off and store cell phones during the school day, from the first to the last bell.
Hindu deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, Krishna, Durga, Lakshmi, and Hanuman. It should also feature items like a ghanta (hanging bell), dholak (hand drum), and Shiva-linga to create an environment conducive to Hindu worship and meditation. He called on Brown University President Christina H. Paxson and Chancellor Brian T. Moynihan to address the issue, urging the institution to honor its mission to "serve the community" and to uphold inclusivity for all religious groups.
“Discrimination against any faith undermines Brown’s esteemed reputation,” Zed add-ed.
As one of the oldest universities in the United States, founded in 1764, Brown boasts a diverse student body of over 11,000 students from more than 113 countries. With a commitment to serving students from all religious affiliations, Brown has the opportunity to set a precedent by accommodating Hindu spiritual needs. Hinduism, the world’s oldest and third-largest religion with 1.2 billion adherents globally and 3.5 million in the U.S., emphasizes the integration of spirituality and education. Zed concluded by noting that providing such a space aligns with the principles of respect and equity for all faiths.
VIRGINIA — By Jan. 1, 2025, all K-12 schools in Virginia must enforce stricter cell phone policies as man-dated by the Virginia Department of Education. This initiative, backed by Governor Glenn Youngkin's execu-tive order, aims to minimize distractions and enhance learning environments. The statewide guidance requires students to turn off and store cell phones during the school day, from the first to the last bell. High school students may use phones before and after school hours, with middle school policies varying by district. Exceptions are allowed for medical needs outlined in IEPs, 504 plans, or health-care plans. School boards across Northern Virginia have adopted tailored policies:
• • Arlington Public Schools: Phones must remain off and stored throughout the day starting Jan. 6, 2025. Emergency access is permitted, and accommodations are available for medical needs.
• • Alexandria City Public Schools: Policies now restrict elementary students to turning off and storing phones, while middle and high school students face stricter storage rules, including for smartwatches.
• • Fairfax County Public Schools: Pilot programs in select schools test storage pouches and other strategies to reduce distractions. Feedback will shape future policies.
• • Loudoun County Public Schools: High school students must store phones in classrooms, while elementary and middle school students keep them silent and stored in lockers.
• • Prince William County Public Schools: A pilot at 33 schools bans phones during instructional times, with stricter rules across all schools planned by August 2025. These changes aim to foster focused learning while accommodating essential communication and health needs. For details, parents are encouraged to consult their local school district's policies.
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Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42
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FIA Chicago Brings Warmth and Hope Through Its Third Annual Coat Drive
CHICAGO, IL- The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), Chicago, held its third annual Coat Drive, deliv-ering over 400 coats and blankets to Illinois shelters. This compassionate initiative, spearheaded by Found-er Chairman Sunil Shah, President Pratibha Jairath, and President-Elect Anu Malhotra, provided warmth and hope to hundreds facing harsh winter conditions.
Donations were distributed to Hesed House Shelter in Aurora and the Humanitarian Service Project Shelter in Carol Stream, both pivotal in supporting individuals battling homelessness and poverty. The event com-menced at Hesed House, a model for combating homelessness, where volunteers delivered coats and winter essentials, ensuring comfort for the shelter’s residents. Later in the day, the team extended their efforts to the Humanitarian Service Project Shelter,
Grand New Year’s Eve Celebration by Bharatiya Senior Citizens of Chicago
On December 31, 2024, a grand New Year’s Eve celebration was held at the Rana Regan Center in Carol Stream, near Chicago. The event saw an enthusiastic gathering of over 1,500 attendees. BSC President Haribhai Patel extended a warm welcome to the senior members and invited guests, wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous New Year 2025. The evening began with a cocktail hour from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by a sumptuous dinner enjoyed by all. At precisely 8:30 PM, the entertainment program kicked off with live music. Renowned Chicago singer Kosha
Pandya enthralled the audience with a mix of new and classic Bollywood songs. Adding to the evening’s excitement were captivating performances by special GO GO dancers, belly danc-ers, and a ROBOT with digital lighting effects. These unique acts mesmerized the crowd and brought an energetic vibe to the celebrations. At the stroke of midnight, the venue erupted with joy as balloons were released, and attendees exchanged New Year greetings.
BSC President Haribhai Patel concluded the event by thanking the executive members, stating that the program’s success was a testament to their collective efforts.
aiding families and senior citizens in DuPage and Kane counties. Executive Vice President Chandini Duvvuri played a key role in coordinating the initiative, supported by a dedicated volunteer team. Leaders like Karen Swandby (Hesed House) and Kristine Senne (HSP) facilitated the seamless distribution of donations.
“This effort wasn’t just about coats; it was about kindness,” said President-Elect Anu Malhotra. Founder Chairman Sunil Shah emphasized the symbolic message of care and solidarity, while President Pratibha Jairath expressed pride in FIA’s dedication. The success of the Coat Drive highlights FIA’s commitment to community welfare, made possible by its volunteers and donors, who exemplified the spirit of service despite challenging weather conditions.
Man Arrested After Bomb Threat Shuts Down Interstate in South Carolina
HiIndia Newsdesk
SOUTH CAROLINA - An Oak Lawn resident is in custody following a bomb threat during a traffic stop, which led to the closure of Interstate 85 in Greenville County, South Carolina, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m. on Thursday Jan 2nd, when South Carolina State Transport Police stopped a tractor-trailer for lacking a license plate on its trailer.
The driver, identified as Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi, 28, of Oak Lawn, informed officers that there was an explosive device inside the commercial
The incident occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m. on Thursday Jan 2nd, when South Carolina State Transport Police stopped a tractor-trailer for lacking a license plate on its trailer.
vehicle, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.
In response, all six lanes of I-85 were shut down while law enforcement, including the FBI, investigated the potential threat.
The area was declared safe, and the interstate reopened at 7:40 p.m., nearly five hours after the initial in-cident, officials stated.
Alhendi was arrested and is facing multiple charges, including:
• Breach of peace of a high and aggravated nature
• Conveying false information regarding a bomb threat
• Operating or permitting an unregistered vehicle
The tractor-trailer is reportedly registered to Globe Transportation, a company based in Illinois. Authorities have not disclosed additional details about the motive or circumstances surrounding the inci-dent.
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FIA Team and Team from Hesed House Shelter, Aurora, IL
