US President-elect Donald Trump appeared to side with ally and tech billionaire Elon Musk over the ongoing H-1B row and said America needs "smart people" coming into our country.
Sides With Elon Musk
FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022
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"Hell-Bent On Carnage": 10 Killed As Pickup Truck Rams Crowd In New Orleans
At least 10 people were killed and 30 suffered injuries after a pickup truck ploughed into a crowd in the southern US city of New Orleans on New Year's Day. Witnesses said the driver of the truck also fired at the crowd and exchanged gunfire with the police.
Officials said a crowd was celebrating when the pickup truck drove into it at high speed at the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Street in a part of the city known as the French Quarter.
While the police said the driver of the pickup truck was "hell-bent on creating carnage", the FBI - which has taken operational command of the investigation - said a suspected explosive
FBI finds largest explosive cache on a Virginia farm
The FBI says it has discovered more than 150 bombs during a raid on a farm in Virginia – thought to be the largest such cache seized by the law-enforcement agency in its history.
Brad Spafford was arrested on 17 December in Isle of Wight County, 180 miles (290km) south of Washington DC, after a tip-off that he was stockpiling weapons and homemade ammunition on the property he shares with his wife and two young children.
Investigators say some of the devices were found in a bedroom in an unsecured backpack labelled "#nolivesmatter" - an apparent reference to a far-right, antigovernment movement.
A lawyer for Mr Spafford denied he is a danger to the community and is seeking his client's release from pretrial detention.The suspect has so far only been charged with possessing an unregistered short-barrelled rifle, though investigators say more charges are likely.
device has been found on the scene.
"The 8th District is currently working a mass casualty incident involving a vehicle that drove into a large crowd on Canal and Bourbon Street. There are 30 injured patients that have been transported by NOEMS and 10 fatalities.
Public safety partners are responding on scene," New Orleans' emergency preparedness campaign NOLA Ready said on its website.
Police said the driver tried to hit "as many people" as possible and two police personnel were also shot and wounded.
"This man, this perpetrator, he fired on our officers from his vehicle when he crashed his vehicle. Two of our officers have been shot. They are stable... He was hell-bent on creating the carnage
'This man was trying to run over as many people as he could,' Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick said
and the damage that he did," Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. Although the incident was not being treated as a terror attack, Ms Kirkpatrick said the truck had been driven at "very high speed" and in a "very intentional" manner.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry described the incident as a "horrific act of violence."
Emergency authorities said the incident took place at approximately 3:15 am local
Puerto Rico left in dark by New Year's Eve blackout
Puerto Rico was plunged into darkness on New Year's Eve by a nearly islandwide blackout.
About 90% of almost 1.5 million customers had no electricity, said Luma Energy, the island's main power distributor. By late Tuesday night, more than 700,000 clients, including Puerto Rico's water and sewer company and 16 hospitals, had power back, said Luma.
The blackout prompted renewed calls to address the unincorporated US territory's power issues, which have persisted since Hurricane Maria in 2017.
A failure in an electric line at one of the main power plants, Costa Sur, caused cascading issues across the island, Luma spokesman Hugo Sorrentini said.
US President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation and Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm has spoken with Puerto Rico's governor to offer assistance, the White House said.
"We can't keep relying on an energy system that fails our people," Jenniffer González-Colon, Puerto Rico's current US congressional representative and the incoming governor of Puerto Rico, wrote on X."Today's blackout and the uncertainty around restoration continue to impact our economy and quality of life," she said.
time. At that hour, the French Quarter, renowned for its bars, restaurants and jazz history, would have been packed with revellers.
CBS News reported witnesses saying the truck rammed into the crowd before its driver jumped out and started exchanging gunfire with police.
A white truck crashed through a barricade "at a high rate of speed," witnesses Jim and Nicole Mowrer said. "Once it was past us, we did hear gunfire, saw police running that direction... Once the gunfire stopped, we stayed in the alcove until the gunfire stopped, came out into the street, and came across a lot of -- several people who had been hit, (we) wanted to see what we could do to help," Nicole Mowrer was quoted as saying in the AFP report.
Donald Trump To Attend Jimmy Carter State Funeral
Washington, United States:
US President-elect
Donald Trump said Tuesday he plans to attend the state funeral of former president Jimmy Carter, who died Sunday aged 100.
Trump shared his intentions with reporters during New Year's Eve celebrations at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.
"I'll be there. We were invited," Trump said. When asked a follow-up question about whether he had spoken to any of Carter's family members, the Republican demurred, responding: "I'd rather not say." Carter, a Democrat who served one term as US president from 1977 to 1981, voted by mail in the 2024 US presidential election, with family members saying he planned to vote for Trump's opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris.
State funeral plans for Carter, a one-time peanut farmer who worked his way to the White House, begin Saturday in his home state of Georgia and will conclude January 9 at the Washington National Cathedral, where Trump is expected to attend along with other dignitaries.
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"US Need Smart People": Trump Sides With Elon Musk On H-1B Visa Row
Washington DC:
US President-elect Donald Trump appeared to side with ally and tech billionaire Elon Musk over the ongoing H-1B row and said America needs "smart people" coming into our country. Mr Musk sparked political turmoil in the Republican camp recently after he vowed to "go to war" to defend the H-1B visa programme.
"I always felt we have to have the most competent people in our country. We need competent people. We need smart people coming into our country. We need a lot of people coming in. We're going to have jobs like we've never had before," Mr Trump said while talking to the media on New Year's Eve.
Donald Trump has picked Elon Musk, along with IndianAmerican tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, to lead his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Last week, Mr Musk argued that foreign workers were needed for tech companies like his SpaceX and Tesla.
"We need smart people coming into our country. We need a lot of people coming in. We're going to have jobs like we've never had before," Mr Trump said while talking to the media on New Year's Eve.
"The reason I'm in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla and hundreds of other companies that made America strong
is because of H-1B," Musk wrote on X.
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to
OpenAI Whistleblower Suchir Balaji's Parents Say Autopsy Points To Murder
New Delhi: The parents of Suchir Balaji, a former employee ChatGPT maker OpenAI, have alleged that his autopsy had shown signs of struggle such as a head injury. Twenty-six-year-old Balaji, who had flagged ethical concerns about OpenAI's functioning after he left the Artificial Intelligence giant, was found dead at his San Francisco flat earlier this month. Authorities have said he had died by suicide.
Balaji's parents Balaji Ramamurthy and Purnima Ramarao spoke to NDTV about their son's tragic death and their fight for justice.
"We read the second autopsy, there are signs of struggle such as head injury, more details from the autopsy reveal it is murder," his mother said.
Recounting his last conversation with his son, Mr Ramamurthy said, "He was returning from a birthday trip from Los Angeles where he went with his friends, he was happy. He told me he wanted to go to Las Vegas for CES (a tech show) in January. At the end, he said he was going for dinner," he said.
Born and raised in California, Suchir Balaji worked with OpenAI for nearly four years as a researcher. He quit in August, protesting against the AI giant's business practices. Suchir alleged that OpenAI had violated US copyright law and voiced his concern in a report in The New York Times, titled 'Former
OpenAI Researcher Says the Company Broke Copyright Law'.
Ms Ramarao said Suchir was among the top 10 in the artificial intelligence industry. "Why would he quit OpenAI and leave the AI industry, he was planning to start something in neuroscience and machine learning. Our suspicion is was he threatened by OpenAI, did they suppress him? he didn't pick up another job, maybe they threatened him," she said. Suchir, his mother said, had consulted a copyright attorney and figured out he was not doing anything wrong and they were just suppressing him. That's what made him go for The New York Times interview," she said. She said Suchir
had told her he was working on some research and would publish it when ready. "In his publication, he explains with mathematical basis that the modulated answer is not exactly as per the information fed to ChatGPT."
Ms Ramarao said Suchir had told her that the "work of artistes and journalists are stolen (by ChatGPT) and that's very unethical". "I concurred with him. He was not fighting against OpenAI, he was standing for humanity, he says in his article that he thought AI would be good for humanity but it is more harm," she said. Suchir's mother said she had advised him to build up support for his cause and he was working on that.
employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise.
US States To Roll Out New Gun Laws Starting Today
New York: US states have taken steps to pass their own gun regulations to effect on January 1, as related violence kept on ravaging the nation with nearly 500 mass shootings occurring in 2024, media reported.
In September 2024, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a series of laws aimed at strengthening gun safety regulations. Those include requiring schools to implement safety programs and plans and establishing an Office of Gun Violence Prevention, which has deadlines in the coming years. Some of those laws go into effect on January 1. As of January 1, any handgun stored inside an unoccupied vehicle in Colorado must be in a locked, hardsided container that is out of plain view, and the vehicle also must be locked, with some exceptions. Later in 2025, Coloradans who want to apply for a concealed carry permit will be required to complete an eight-hour training class, which includes a written exam and a live-fire exercise.
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In pictures: From Times Square to Burj Khalifa, how the world welcomed 2025
Glimpses of New Year's celebrations in different countries as Sydney, London, Dubai, Mumbai light up the sky with dazzling fireworks and light shows
Fireworks explode over the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, during the New Year's celebration in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, January 1, 2025.
Fireworks explode over the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year's Eve celebrations in Sydney, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. (AP/PTI)
Fireworks explode over Vienna's Prater during New Year celebrations in Vienna, Austria, January 1, 2025. (Reuters)
Fireworks explode as "2025" is projected onto The Arc de Triomphe during the New Year's celebrations on the Champs Elysees avenue in Paris, France, January 1, 2025.
Fireworks explode during a pyrotechnic show to celebrate the new year in the coastal city of Vina del Mar, Chile January 1, 2025.
Fireworks burst over the Brandenburg Gate during New Year's celebrations in Berlin, Germany, January 1, 2025. (Reuters)
Fireworks explode during the New Year celebrations in Bangkok, Thailand, January 1, 2025. (Reuters)
Fireworks explode during the New Year celebration, in Mumbai, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. (PTI)
A woman uses her mobile phone as confetti falls after the ball drop at Times Square on New Year's eve in New York City, U.S., December 31, 2024. (Reuters)
Fireworks explode over Vienna's Prater during New Year celebrations in Vienna, Austria, January 1, 2025. (Reuters)
Foreign fighters in Syria army as Damascus tries to shape rebel groups into professional military
Thousands of Sunni Muslim foreigners joined Syria’s rebels early in 13-year civil war to fight against Bashar al-Assad and Iran-backed Shi’ite militias who supported him, giving the conflict a sectarian overtone
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Syria’s new rulers have installed some foreign fighters including Uyghurs, a Jordanian and a Turk in the country’s armed forces as Damascus tries to shape a patchwork of rebel groups into a professional military, two Syrian sources said.
The move to give official roles, including senior ones, to several jihadists may alarm some foreign governments and Syrian citizens fearful about the new administration’s intentions, despite its pledges not to export Islamic revolution and to rule with tolerance towards Syria’s large minority groups.
A Syrian government spokesperson did not reply to a request for comment on the thinking behind the appointments.
The sources said that out of a total of almost 50 military roles announced by the defence ministry on Sunday, at
UK special forces face possible Syria war crimes charges
Nine members of UK special forces could face prosecution over alleged war crimes linked to at least two separate incidents in Syria, according to Ministry of Defence (MoD) data seen by the BBC. The data, which was originally obtained via a Freedom of Information request by The Times newspaper, shows that two cases are being reviewed by the Service Prosecuting Authority (Spa), the military equivalent of the Crown Prosecution Service.
Pre-flight checks found 'no issues' before S Korea air crash
A pre-flight inspection of a Jeju Air passenger plane hours before it crashed in South Korea, killing 179 people, found "no issues", the airline has said.
"Nothing abnormal was noted with the landing gear," the airline's CEO
Kim Yi-bae told a news conference in Seoul, as investigations continue into why the wheels were not down when it performed an emergency landing.
The plane was travelling from Bangkok
when it crash-landed at Muan International Airport on Sunday and slid into a wall off the end of the runway, bursting into flames and killing everyone on board except two crew members.
Investigators are still working to identify victims and establish what caused South Korea's deadliest ever air crash. Many question remain unanswered and investigators are looking at the role a bird strike or weather conditions may have played.
They are also focusing on why the Boeing 737-800 did not have its landing gear down when it hit the runway shortly after 09:00 local time (00:00 GMT) on Sunday.
Hundreds of grieving relatives have been camping out at the airport in Muan, furious that they have not yet seen the bodies of their loved ones.
UN says Israeli attacks pushing Gaza healthcare towards total collapse
The UN Human Rights Office says Israeli attacks on and around hospitals have pushed Gaza's healthcare system to "the brink of total collapse" and raised serious concerns about war crimes and crimes against humanity.
A new report describes a pattern in which Israeli forces struck, besieged and forcibly evacuated hospitals, leading to patients dying or being killed.
It acknowledges Israel's allegations that hospitals have been used by Palestinian armed groups, but says the evidence is "vague".
Israel's mission in Geneva said the report was an expression of what it called the UN Human Rights Office’s
“politically-driven obsession with Israel“ and that it “relied on information from Hamas health authorities". It stressed that Israeli forces operated in accordance with international law and would "never target innocent civilians". "It is the murderous terrorist organisation Hamas that uses civilians as human shields, and uses hospitals for terror activity," it added.
It comes days after the last functioning hospital in besieged northern Gaza was raided by the Israeli military, which said it was being used as Hamas command centre.
Israel launched a campaign to destroy Hamas in response to the group's unprecedented attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.
More than 45,500 people have been killed and 108,300 injured in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry. "The protection of hospitals during warfare is paramount and must be respected by all sides, at all times."
rule of Bashar al-Assad and the Iranbacked Shi’ite militias who supported him, giving the conflict a sectarian overtone.
Some foreign fighters formed their own armed groups while others joined established formations such as Islamic State as it rampaged across Iraq and Syria, briefly declaring a so-called caliphate before being routed by US and Iran-backed forces.
Other groups of foreign jihadists joined Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which disavowed previous links to al Qaeda and Islamic State and fought bloody battles against them before going on to spearhead the lightning advance that toppled Assad on December 8.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the HTS-leaderturned de facto ruler of Syria, has purged dozens of foreign jihadi fighters as part of a campaign to Syrianise and moderate his group.
WHO appeals for end to attacks on Gaza's hospitals
The head of the World Health Organization has called for an end to attacks on hospitals in Gaza.
"Hospitals in Gaza have once again become battlegrounds and the health system is under severe threat," Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. His warning came after the last functioning hospital in besieged northern Gaza, Kamal Adwan, was raided and forcibly evacuated by the Israeli military on Friday and two hospitals in Gaza City were attacked on Sunday.
Ivory Coast says French troops to leave West African nation
Ivory Coast has announced that French troops will withdraw from the West African nation, further reducing the military influence of the former colonial power in the region. In an end-ofyear address, Ivory Coast's President, Alassane Ouattara, said the move was a reflection of the modernisation of the country's armed forces.
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least six had gone to foreigners. Reuters was not able to independently verify the nationalities of the individuals
appointed. Thousands of Sunni Muslim foreigners joined Syria’s rebels early in the 13-year civil war to fight against the
Trump 'will end Putin's aggression': Zelenskiy says US will force Russia into 'peace'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said late on Tuesday that no one would give peace to his country as a gift, but he believed the United States would stand alongside Kyiv as it fights to stop Russia's 34-month invasion.
Zelenskiy, in a slick 21-minute New Year video greeting to his compatriots, also said only a strong Ukraine could secure peace and earn worldwide respect.
"We know that peace will not be given to us as a gift, but we will do everything to stop Russia and end the war, something each of us desires," Zelenskiy said against a backdrop of the blue-and-yellow national flag, battlefield scenes and pictures of children.
He recalled conversations with outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden, President-elect Donald Trump and "everyone who supports us in the United States".
Close Player "I have no doubt that the new American president wants and will be able to bring peace and end (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's aggression," Zelenskiy said. "He understands that the former is impossible without the latter. Because this is not a street brawl where the two sides need to be pacified. This is a fullscale aggression by a deranged state against a civilised one. And I believe that, together with the United States, we are capable of the strength to force Russia into a just peace."
Korean Air Crash: Black Box Data Retrieved
Grieving relatives of the victims of the South Korea plane crash gathered at the site to pay respects to their loved ones on New Year's Day, as officials said they've extracted data from one of the retrieved black boxes to find the exact cause of the crash.
All but two of the 181 passengers and crew on board the Boeing 737-800 operated by Jeju Air died when it crashed at Muan International Airport, in southern South Korea, on Sunday.
Russia, Zelenskiy said, was not to be trusted either in battle or in talks.
"If today Russia shakes your hand, it doesn't mean that tomorrow the same hand will not start killing you," he said. "Russians fear those who are free. What they don't understand. They
Russians 'fear freedom', says the Ukrainian President, who believes the war is a conflict between a 'deranged state' and a 'civilised one'
fear freedom." Biden's administration has provided by far the most military support for Ukraine among Western nations since the February 2022 fullscale invasion.
Ukraine has been wary of Trump's criticism of aid to Kyiv and his pledge, during the U.S. election campaign, to bring a quick end to the war, but Zelenskiy has expressed optimism about ensuring continuing U.S. support.
Ukraine has endured a difficult year, with Russian forces taking village after village in a quicker advance on the eastern front than since the beginning of the invasion. In recent months, Zelenskiy has said that any settlement to the conflict is predicated on receiving security guarantees from Western nations and Kyiv securing an invitation to join the NATO alliance, a notion Russia rejects out of hand.
Russian gas exports to Europe through Ukraine stopped after transit deal expires
Russian natural gas exports via Sovietera pipelines running through Ukraine to Europe were halted in the early hours of New Year's Day as a transit deal expired and warring Moscow and Kyiv have failed to reach an agreement to continue the flows.
The shutdown of Russia's oldest gas route to Europe ends a decade of fraught relations sparked by Russia's seizure of Crimea in 2014. Ukraine stopped buying Russian gas the following year.
"We stopped the transit of Russian gas.
This is a historic event. Russia is losing its markets, it will suffer financial losses. Europe has already made the decision to abandon Russian gas," Ukraine's Energy Minister German Galushchenko said in a statement.
The stoppage of gas flows was expected amid the war, which started in February
The shutdown of Russia's oldest gas route to Europe ends a decade of fraught relations sparked by Russia's seizure of Crimea in 2014
2022. Ukraine has been adamant it would not extend the deal amid the military conflict.
According to an industry source, Gazprom last year assumed the absence
of the gas transit via Ukraine, which accounted for roughly half of Russia's total pipeline gas exports to Europe. Russia still exports gas via the TurkStream pipeline on the bed of the Black Sea. TurkStream has two lines - one for the Turkish domestic market and the other supplying central European customers including Hungary and Serbia.
The European Union redoubled its efforts to reduce its dependence on Russian energy after the outbreak of the military conflict in Ukraine in 2022 by seeking alternative sources.
The remaining buyers of Russian gas via Ukraine such as Slovakia and Austria have also arranged alternative supply. Moldova, once part of the Soviet Union, is among the countries worst affected. It says it will now need to introduce measures to reduce its gas use by a third.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell says New Year's Day mass casualty incident a 'terrorist attack'
The FBI is investigating what occurred early Wednesday, when a vehicle drove into a crowd on New Orleans' famed Canal and Bourbon Street
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell is calling the New Year's Day mass casualty incident that killed 10 people and injured 30 a “terrorist attack.” The FBI is investigating what occurred early Wednesday, when a vehicle drove into a crowd on New Orleans' famed Canal and Bourbon Street in the first hours of New Year's Day. Alethea Duncan, an assistant special agent in charge of the FBI's New Orleans field office, said officials were investigating the discovery of at least one suspected improvised explosive device at the scene. 1 Earlier, the New Orleans Police Department said it was responding to a mass casualty incident Wednesday that included fatalities. NOLA Ready advised people to stay away from the area. It said the injured had been taken to five local hospitals. The incident came at 3.15 am toward the end of New Year's celebrations in New Orleans and hours before the kickoff of the Sugar Bowl, a college football quarterfinal held in the city's Superdome, with thousands expected to be in attendance.
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"Storms Of 2024 Augmented Our Spirit": Gautam Adani's New Year Message
New Delhi: Gautam Adani today extended his warm wishes for the New Year to the Adani Group employees. "As we step into 2025, I extend my warm wishes to each of you and your families for a year filled with prosperity, health, and remarkable achievements," the Adani Group chairman said.
Reflecting on the past year, Mr Adani said that 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary, emphasising "the journey to success is rarely linear".
"At our core, we are fearless fighters, and it is through these battles that we continue to evolve and excel. The storms of 2024 further augmented our spirit. And today, we stand taller because of your unwavering dedication and relentless passion," he said.
Gautam Adani said that even though the group's financial position has never been more robust, his focus was not on numbers but on the foundation we are laying for the future.
Mr Adani said the group's "true challenge lies in deploying our capital effectively". "To overcome this, we must prioritise the two Ts that serve as the most sustainable differentiators in today's world - Technology and Talent," he added. Explaining the role of technology and
talent, The Adani Group chairman said, "In today's fast-evolving landscape, every company must think and act as a technology company - or risk irrelevance. Scaling effectively demands more than just implementing software tools - it requires embedding a technology-first mindset into the very fabric of our organisation. This is not optional - it
Ayodhya and Varanasi witness unprecedented rush of devotees on New Year Day
The temple towns of Ayodhya and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday witnessed an unprecedented rush of devotees on the first day of the New Year. The Ram temple at Ayodhya was consecrated on January 22 last year.
According to local administration estimates, over two lakh devotees had already set up camps in Ayodhya on New Year Eve. On Wednesday morning, approximately three lakh more people arrived to pay homage to the deity of Ram Lalla.
The eagerness of devotees was palpable as they lined up for 'darshan' of the idol which was unveiled at sunrise on the first day of the year.
In Varanasi, a massive crowd of devotees thronged the sacred premises of Baba Shri Kashi Vishwanath temple from 3
am on Wednesday. The rush continued till late evening as part of New Year celebrations.
The temple administration reported that by 4 pm, a whopping 3.5 lakh devotees had visited the temple to offer
In a statement, Ram Temple Trust general secretary Champat Rai said the entire world is celebrating the New Year according to the Gregorian calendar.
8 Pakistanis, Caught With 232-Kg Drugs
Off Gujarat Coast, Jailed For 20 Years
Mumbai: A special court here on Wednesday sentenced eight Pakistani nationals to 20 years imprisonment in a 2015 case of seizure of more than 200 kg of drugs valued at nearly Rs 7 crore. Special judge for NDPS Act cases, Shashikant Bangar, convicted the eight persons for offences committed under the anti-drug law. They were handed a 20-year jail term, maximum under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The court also imposed a fine of Rs
2 lakh on each of the convicts.
In 2015, the Indian Coast Guard apprehended the accused from a boat carrying 232 kg of heroin valued at Rs 6.96 crore off the Gujarat coast. As per the prosecution, there were
11 drums on the boat with 20 plastic pouches containing a wheatish brown colour powder.
The contents of each packet were tested, which revealed it to be heroin, it said.
The eight Pakistan nationals were also found in possession of three satellite phones, and GPS navigation charts, among other electronic devices.
They were later handed over to the Yellow Gate police in south Mumbai.
Special Public Prosecutor Sumesh Punjwani sought maximum punishment for the accused, saying it could be a lesson for other drug traffickers.
Reflecting on the past year, Gautam Adani said that 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary, emphasising "the journey to success is rarely linear".
is essential. And it begins with our top 100 leaders setting the tone." he added.
Gautam Adani, urging each member of the group to become "technologically fluent", said, "In the race of relevance, technology is the racetrack, and leadership is the stride that ensures we finish first". "I challenge each of you to embrace technology as a lever to innovate, disrupt and set new standards of excellence. Your career growth depends on it. Our collective success depends on it," he added.Talking about the role of talent, he said, "Talent is not about mere resumes or credentials - it is about the drive to adapt, innovate and lead.
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.
2024: India's Hottest Year Since 1901
New Delhi: The year 2024 was the warmest on record in India since 1901, with the average minimum temperature settling 0.90 degrees Celsius above the long-period average.
The annual mean land surface air temperature across India in 2024 was 0.65 degrees Celsius above the longterm average (1991-2020 period), Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, director general of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), said at a virtual press briefing.
The year 2024 now ranks as the warmest year on record since 1901, surpassing 2016, which had recorded a mean land surface air temperature 0.54 degrees Celsius above normal.
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prayers and seek the blessings of Baba Shri Kashi Vishwanath.
Air India's global coverage will further increase in the years ahead
CEO Campbell Wilson
Kejriwal questions Bhagwat on RSS backing BJP
AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday wrote to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and alleged deletion of votes and money distribution by the BJP in Delhi. Kejriwal raised several questions in his letter to the RSS chief which comes ahead of the Delhi Assembly polls. The former Delhi chief minister asked Bhagwat if the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) endorsed the "wrongdoings" committed by the BJP. He asked if the RSS supported money being openly distributed by the BJP leaders to buy votes and "largescale" deletion of Purvanchali and Dalit votes by the saffron party.
Diljit Dosanjh Faces Legal Action Over Alcohol Songs
Ludhiana: Singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh's highly anticipated New Year's Eve concert in Ludhiana was marred by legal controversy following a complaint filed by Punditrao Dharenavar, an assistant professor from Chandigarh. The complaint prompted the Deputy Director of the Women and Child Department, Government of Punjab, to issue a formal notice to Ludhiana's District Commissioner, urging them to prevent the singer from performing certain songs during his live show on December 31, 2024.
"Saved Honour": UP man kills mother, 4 sisters
Lucknow: The 24-year-old man accused of murdering his mother and four sisters at a hotel in Lucknow has said in a chilling video that he committed the killings because he did not want his "sisters to be sold". In the video, which emerged hours after the shocking crime, Arshad alleges that neighbours and land mafia in their hometown Budaun captured their house and planned to traffick his sisters.
In the video, Arshad said he killed his mother and three sisters and the fourth was about to die. He also showed the bodies and said he choked them and slit their wrists and that his father helped him. The victims have been identified as his mother Asma and sisters Alia (9), Alshia (19), Aksa (16) and Rahmeen (18).
"Our family has taken this step due to harassment by people in the neighbourhood. I have killed my mother and sisters. When police get this video, they must know that the locals are responsible. They harassed us to capture our house. We raised our voice, but no one heard. It has been 15 days that we have been sleeping on the footpath, wandering in the cold. We don't want the children to wander in the cold. They have
Xi Jinping ends 2024 with Taiwan threat: "No one can stop..."
New Delhi: Chinese President Xi Jinping has ended the year with a threat over Taiwan, saying "no one can stop the reunification" with China. He said this while addressing the nation on New Year's eve. Beijing has, for long, stated that the entire nation of Taiwan is part of China. It has also shown an overt and muscular posturing by carrying out air force and naval drills around the island
Beijing and Taipei represent two diametrically opposite ways of life. While Taiwan is a democracy, China is a communist country.
nation. Beijing and Taipei represent two diametrically opposite ways of life. While Taiwan is a democracy, China is a communist country. In recent times, Beijing has intensified pressure on Taipei and has made all possible efforts to isolate the island nation from the rest of the world. China has also carried out three rounds of major military drills since Taiwan's democratic election saw President Lai Ching-te come to power in May. Irked by the latest election, Beijing has said it will not renounce the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control.
Congress questions PM; CM responds on Manipur
New Delhi: In a sharp counter to senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's question on why Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not visited violence-hit Manipur, Chief Minister N Biren Singh has asked why former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao did not travel to the Northeastern state during the turmoil in 1992-93.
Addressing the media on the last day of 2024, Chief Minister Singh yesterday said it had been an unfortunate year for Manipur and hoped peace would be restored this year.
"This entire year has been very unfortunate. I want to say sorry to the people of the state for what's happening till today since last May 3. Many people lost their loved ones. Many people left their homes. I feel regret. I apologise. But now, I hope after seeing the last three to four months progress towards the peace, I believe by 2025, the normalcy will be restored in the state," he said.
The victims have been identified as Arshad's mother Asma and sisters Alia (9), Alshia (19), Aksa (16) and Rahmeen (18)
captured our house. The documents are with us," says Arshad, who was arrested at the crime scene.
He also named several people allegedly responsible for the deaths: Ranu, Aftab, Aleem Khan, Salim, Arif, Ahmad and Azhar. "They are land mafia, they also sell girls. They planned to frame the two of us (him and his father) in a false case and sell our sisters. We did not want that. So I was forced to kill my sisters by choking them and slitting their wrists."
Rohit to continue as captain in Sydney: Report
Rohit Sharma faces mounting pressure over poor form and ineffective captaincy as India fights to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in the final Test. Speculation about his retirement mid-series, similar to MS Dhoni in 2014-15, has been dismissed. According to Cricbuzz, chief selector Ajit Agarkar plans to discuss Rohit's future only after the series concludes.
US sanctions Iran, Russia entities for election meddling
Washington DC: The United States on Tuesday imposed sanctions on entities in Iran and Russia, accusing them of attempting to interfere in the 2024 US election. The US Treasury Department said in a statement the entities - a subsidiary of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and an organization affiliated with Russia's military intelligence agency (GRU) - aimed to "stoke socio-political tensions and influence the U.S. electorate during the 2024 U.S. election". "The Governments of Iran and Russia have targeted our election processes and institutions and sought to divide the American people through targeted disinformation campaigns," Treasury's Acting Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Bradley Smith, said in the statement.
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Cracks In MAGA Camp
Elon Musk vs Trump Supporters Over Indian Immigrants
Fissures within the MAGA camp appeared following the appointment of Sriram Krishnan, an Indian-origin venture capitalist, to lead AI policy in the incoming Trump administration.
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Supporters of US President-elect Donald Trump have clashed with Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy and their tech allies. At the centre of the clash lies a polarising issue: immigration. On one side stand Mr Musk and his Silicon Valley allies, advocating for merit-based immigration reforms. On the other, diehard Trump supporters, committed to an anti-immigration stance, see Mr Musk's positions as a betrayal of their populist ideals.
The fissures within the MAGA camp appeared following the appointment of Sriram Krishnan, an Indian-origin venture capitalist and Musk ally, to lead artificial intelligence policy in the incoming Trump administration. Mr Krishnan's previous statements advocating for the removal of country caps on green cards for skilled immigrants were dredged up by Trump supporters, triggering a social media firestorm. Laura Loomer, a far-right social media commentator, labelled Mr Krishnan's appointment as "deeply disturbing." Her criticism, amplified by verified accounts on Mr Musk's social media platform X, set
the stage for a confrontation between the two factions. Musk And The Silicon Valley Vision
Musk, who immigrated to the United States on an H-1B visa himself, has consistently championed the idea of attracting top global talent. He argues that America's technological and economic dominance depends on its ability to recruit the best minds worldwide. "If you want your TEAM to win the championship, you need to recruit top talent wherever they may be," Mr Musk posted on X.
Vivek Ramaswamy, Trump's newly appointed cochair of the Department of Government Efficiency, echoed Mr Musk's sentiments. Mr Ramaswamy, the son of Indian immigrants, argued that the US culture has long celebrated mediocrity over excellence. "A culture that celebrates the prom queen over the math olympiad champ... will not produce the best engineers," he posted on X.
MAGA's Populist Backlash
These positions, however, have provoked a backlash
from Trump's most loyal supporters. Loomer, along with far-right figures like Ann Coulter and former Congressman Matt Gaetz, accused Mr Musk and Mr Ramaswamy of undermining American workers. One viral post on X accused Mr Krishnan as an "India First" operative whose goal was to "replace American workers."
Nikki Haley, former US Ambassador to the United Nations, also entered the fray, insisting that the US should prioritise investing in American talent. "There is nothing wrong with American workers or American culture," she posted, challenging Mr Ramaswamy's critique.
Adding to the confusion is Trump's own inconsistent stance on immigration. While his first administration imposed significant restrictions on H-1B visas, his recent statements have signalled a softer approach.
During a podcast interview earlier this year, Trump expressed support for granting green cards to foreign graduates of US universities. This shift has left many in his base uncertain about the future direction of his immigration policies.
"Always In Favour": Trump Backs Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy In H-1B Visa Debate
Washington: Former President Donald Trump expressed support for the H1-B visa program, fueling tensions within his base. Speaking to the New York Post, Trump stated, “I’ve always liked the [H1-B] visas... that’s why we have them” at
Trump-owned properties.
This comes amid a heated debate between Trump’s anti-immigration supporters and tech moguls like Elon Musk. While Trump campaigned on limiting immigration, Musk and others, including entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, champion the H1-B program, arguing it addresses a shortage of skilled U.S. workers. Musk, who migrated to the U.S. via an H1-B visa, called attracting global talent “essential for America to keep winning” on his platform X. Ramaswamy, co-chairing a cost-cutting panel under Trump, criticized a culture of mediocrity in the U.S., warning of competition from China. This sparked outrage among conservatives, including Laura Loomer, a far-right Trump ally, who accused Musk of undermining Trump’s pro-American worker stance. Musk fired back, warning of a “MAGA civil war” and vowing to “go to war” over H1-B visas. Steve Bannon, a Trump strategist, accused Musk of promoting a system that exploits immigrants as “indentured servants.”
Some Republicans fear Trump is aligning with big tech donors like Musk, straying from his original campaign promises. It remains unclear if Trump’s remarks will ease divisions or deepen the intraparty conflict as he prepares to take office in January.
When old age starts depend on where you live in the world. But it may also partly depend on how you view ageing. Can you delay it with a positive attitude?
What age do you think counts as middle age?
Forty to 60? Fifty to 70? Somewhere in between? It probably won't surprise you to learn that the answer people give to this question depends on how old they are at the time they are asked it. When half a million people completed an online questionnaire in 2018 the participants who were in their 20s and 30s said on average that middle age began at 40, while old age started at 62. By contrast, the over-65s didn't think old age began until the age of 71. It's fairly obvious what is going on here. No one really likes to think of themselves as getting older, so if you are 40 you relish articles that proclaim that 40 is the new 30. Likewise, people in their 70s are buoyed by suggestions that with advances in nutrition and health care they are barely out of middle age. Also, we tend to want to disassociate ourselves from any group that is stigmatised. This means we resist being designated as old, when we see elderly people portrayed as frail, sedentary, ill and even a burden on society.
Can you delay ageing by refusing to act your age?
participants asked a whole bank of questions. This meant that Kuper and Marmot could establish that other factors such as employment grade couldn't account for the differences in health outcomes.
So how could the number you give to old age starting possibly have this great an impact on your health?
One idea is that the answer to the simple question of when old age starts actually provides a lot more information about a person than you
Of course, old age is a reality and older people should be treated with respect and dignity. So are people simply deluding themselves if they refuse to consider themselves to be old? In fact, it turns out it might be a sensible strategy, one that can be self-fulfilling and life enhancing.
In 2003, the researchers Hannah Kuper and Sir Michael Marmot (famous for demonstrating the impact that socio-economic status in life can have on our health and life expectancy) carried out a wideranging study in which participants were again asked the question: when does old age start?
Answers varied of course, but what Kuper and Marmot found was that those people who thought old age began earlier were more likely to have had a heart attack, to be suffering from heart disease or be in poor physical health generally when they were followed up six to nine years later. The participants in this study were taking part in the so-called Whitehall II study, a longitudinal study of more than 10,000 civil servants working in London. The research is robust, with
might think. It might be, for instance, that the question prompts people to think about their own physical health, and if they have underlying health issues or a poor lifestyle, they might not feel that well and are moved to think old age is coming sooner. People who say that old age sets in at an earlier age may also be more fatalistic and less likely to seek help for medical conditions or to adopt healthier routines, believing that decline is inevitable. They may, for instance, assume that older people are frail and so deliberately start walking more slowly and taking it easy when this is exactly what they shouldn't be doing for the sake of their physical and mental health. They might expect to forget things due to their age, so they stop relying on their memories. It's even possible that the stress of holding negative ideas about ageing contributes to chronic inflammation and more health problems in the long term. So living up to the stereotype of an older person might increase the very problems they fear.
And all of this may be true the other way round too of course. People who think old age starts later in life may be more conscious about their health and fitness and therefore take active steps to stay in better shape. They think they are younger and so behave in younger ways, creating a virtuous circle.
Whatever the explanation, the Kuper and Marmot study is not the only research to demonstrate measurable
Old age is a reality and older people should be treated with respect and dignity. So are people simply deluding themselves if they refuse to consider themselves to be old? In fact, it turns out it might be a sensible strategy, one that can be self-fulfilling and life enhancing.
who saw old age more positively, as a time to learn new things and make new plans, for example, lived longer on average.
In this study, it didn't matter as much what people thought about the physical implications of ageing, what mattered was whether they believed they would still develop and grow mentally.
Aleksandar Nakic/Getty Images
Thinking younger may help people keep themselves open to new experiences for long, with positive effects (Credit: Aleksandar Nakic/ Getty Images)Aleksandar Nakic/Getty Images
Thinking younger may help people keep themselves open to new experiences for long, with positive
benefits of thinking positively about ageing. Becca Levy from the Yale School of Public Health, using data from the Ohio Longitudinal Study of Aging and Retirement, also produced some extraordinary findings. The Ohio study had followed imore than a thousand people who were at least 50 at the time.
She found that people who had positive ideas about their own ageing (who agreed with comments such as "I have as much pep as last year" and who disagreed that as you get older you get less useful) lived for an average of 22.6 years after they first participated in the study, while the people who felt less positively about ageing lived for just 15 years more on average.
Then along comes a new study conducted by Susanne Wurm from the University of Greifswald in northern Germany, which might pin down the problem more precisely. And her findings provide some good news for people who think more negatively about the onset of old age. They weren't any more likely than average to die early. But again, people
effects (Credit: Aleksandar Nakic/ Getty Images)
None of this research means we can magically halt or reverse the ageing process. Eyesight, hearing, memory, muscle mass, bone strength, healing processes: you name it, they all decline. And older people are of course more vulnerable to a whole ranges of illnesses.
These big studies are all based on averages, so saying you're not middle aged isn't going to stop everyone getting ill. But in his book The Expectation Effect, science journalist David Robson has some tips for us. He suggests that instead of mourning the loss of youth, we should focus on the experiences and knowledge we gain as we get older and notice how much better we get at dealing with things. When older people are unwell, they shouldn't assume that's all due to old age. Above all, as we age, we should never give up on trying to be healthier and believing that there are many things we can still do. If we adopt this attitude, we are likely both to live longer and to enjoy those years.
Thinking of your advancing years may make people more likely to be less active, affecting their health (Credit: LumiNola/Getty Images)
People who think old age starts later in life may be more conscious about their health and fitness (Credit: Thomas Barwick/Getty Images)
India Assists Kerala Nurse on Yemen Death Sentence
New Delhi: Yemeni President Rashad al-Alimi has approved the death sentence for Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, convicted in 2018 for murdering Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mahdi in 2017.
Reports state the execution will occur within a month.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed awareness of the case, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirming ongoing efforts to assist Priya.
“The government is extending all possible help,” he said.
Priya’s family has been fighting for her release since her conviction.
Her mother, Prema Kumari, 57, has been in Yemen’s capital, Sana’a, negotiating a waiver of the death penalty and arranging blood money for the victim’s family. However, talks stalled in September after Abdullah Ameer, the Indian Embassy-appointed lawyer, demanded a prenegotiation fee of $20,000 (approx. Rs.16.6 lakh).
The Indian government provided $19,871 to Ameer in July, but he requested $40,000 in total, payable in two installments, before resuming negotiations. The Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council crowdfunded the first installment but later faced donor transparency issues. Priya’s release now depends on securing forgiveness from the victim’s family and tribal leaders. The family remains hopeful as diplomatic and financial efforts continue.
India's First Glass Bridge Inaugurated In Tamil Nadu
Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu): A 77-meter-long and 10-metre wide glass bridge connecting the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the 133-feet high Thiruvalluvar statue off the coast of Kanyakumari was inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Monday evening. The glass bridge, said to be the first such one in the country, offers tourists an enchanting view of the monuments of the two savants and the sea around. "It provides a thrilling experience of walking above the sea," a tourist official said.
ISRO's SpaDeX Mission Today A First Step For India To Set Up Its Own Space Station
New Delhi: Only three countries in the world - United States, Russia, and China - have the ability to carry out docking of two spacecraft or satellites in outer space. India is now on the cusp of achieving that feat as ISRO's last mission of 2024 - named SpaDeX - liftoff from Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota at 2200 hrs (10 pm) IST.
SpaDex is short for Space Docking Experiment. This involves an experimental docking, subsequent interlocking and pressure checks, and undocking of two satellites. The mission is important for ISRO's future moon missions, including Chandrayaan 4. It
is also particularly important for India's plan to set up its own space station.
In October this year, the government had announced that India will have its own Space Station called the Bharatiya Antriksh Station by 2035.
So far, there are two other space stations
Setback For Trump As US Court Upholds $5 Million Verdict In Sexual Abuse Case
Washington: A federal appeals court on Monday upheld a jury verdict ordering President-elect Donald Trump to pay $5 million for sexually abusing and defaming writer E. Jean Carroll.
A New York jury found after a nineday civil trial last year that the former president had sexually abused Carroll at a Manhattan department store in 1996. Trump was ordered to pay $2 million for sexual abuse and another $3 million
for defaming Carroll, a former advice columnist for Elle magazine.
Trump denied the allegations and appealed the verdict on the grounds that two other women who said Trump had sexually assaulted them too should not have been allowed to testify.
The three-judge panel of the Second US Circuit Court of Appeals disagreed.
"We conclude that Mr. Trump has not demonstrated that the district court erred in any of the challenged rulings," they said.
US Treasury Says Was Targeted By China State-Sponsored Cyberattack
Washington:
The US Treasury Department said Monday that a China state-sponsored actor was behind a cyber breach resulting in access to some of its workstations, according to a letter to Congress seen by AFP.
The incident happened earlier this month, when the actor compromised a third-party cybersecurity service provider and was able to remotely access the Treasury workstations and some unclassified documents, a Treasury spokesperson added.
- the International Space Station, built by the United States (NASA) and Russia (Roscosmos). The US side of the ISS is built by NASA and European Space Agency or ESA. The second space station is being built by China, and is called the Tiangong Space Station. India aims to set up the third.
Every time astronauts or cosmonauts are sent to space, especially the International Space Station, the shuttle or capsule they travel in needs to perform a docking manoeuvre. Only after the docking procedure is complete, and the two objects are securely interlocked, can the astronauts get into the pressurised cabin of the space station.
Sundar Pichai Warns Google Staff: "High Stakes for 2025"
Google CEO Sundar Pichai has called 2025 a pivotal year for the company, emphasizing the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI). At a strategy meeting in California, he urged employees to “internalize the urgency of this moment” and move faster to unlock AI’s potential.
“The stakes are high,” Pichai said, as reported by CNBC. “In 2025, we need to focus relentlessly on solving real user problems with this technology.” Google’s ambitious AI initiative centers around its Gemini app, a suite of generative AI tools. Pichai highlighted recent momentum but stressed the need for further work to establish Gemini as an industry leader. The company aims to scale the app to 500 million users, making it a flagship product alongside Google’s core offerings.
Jolie, Pitt Settle
Divorce After 8 Years
Treasury contacted the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency after it was alerted of the situation by its provider BeyondTrust, and has been working with law enforcement partners to ascertain the impact.
"The compromised BeyondTrust service has been taken offline and there is no evidence indicating the threat actor has continued access to Treasury systems or information," the department's spokesperson said.
In its letter to the leadership of the Senate Banking Committee, the Treasury said:
"Based on available indicators, the incident has been attributed to a China state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actor."
An APT refers to a cyberattack where an intruder establishes and maintains unauthorized access to a target, remaining undetected for a sustained period of time.
Hollywood stars Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have reached a divorce settlement after eight years, her lawyer has told media. There was no immediate comment from Mr Pitt's attorney when they were approached for comment, the Associated Press reports.
The couple got married in 2014 and they have six children.
Ms Jolie filed for divorce in 2016, citing "irreconcilable differences".The pair became embroiled in a bitter child custody battle in the months following the announcement.
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Adani Wilmar shares tank nearly 8% as Adani Group announces exit from FMCG joint venture
Shares of Adani Wilmar tumbled nearly 8 per cent on Tuesday after billionaire Gautam Adani's group announced its exit from the FMCG joint venture by selling its entire stake to the Singaporean partner in the open market for over USD 2 billion.
The stock tanked 7.95 per cent to Rs 303.30 on the BSE.
At the NSE, it tumbled 7.80 per cent to Rs 303.10.
In a statement on Monday, Adani Enterprises Ltd -- which held 43.94 per cent stake in Fortune brand cooking oil, wheat flour and other food product maker Adani Wilmar Ltd -- said it will sell 31.06 per cent stake to Wilmar International. The remaining about 13 per cent holding will be sold in the open market to meet minimum public shareholding requirements.
Adani will sell up to 40.37 crore shares (31.06 per cent stake) to Wilmar at no more than Rs 305 apiece to net Rs 12,314
Thomas Cook India hit by cyber attack
Travel services provider Thomas Cook (India) Ltd on Tuesday said there has been a cyber attack on its IT infrastructure and it is working with security experts to support its investigation and take remedial action. In a regulatory filing, the company said,"...there has been an incident involving a cyber attack on our IT infrastructure." Without disclosing the exact timelines, it said, "Immediately upon becoming aware of the incident, we have taken the necessary steps to investigate and respond to the incident, including shutting down affected systems."
Thomas Cook (India) added, "We are working with leading cyber security experts to support our investigation and identify the extent of the issue and take remedial action as necessary."
crore. Adding the share sale through OFS, whose price will be determined on the day of sales, the total proceeds will exceed USD 2 billion (about Rs 17,100 crore).
"With this, AEL (Adani Enterprises Limited) will fully exit Adani Wilmar Ltd," it said. "Adani's nominee directors will step down from the board of Adani Wilmar Ltd." Pranav V Adani, director
Gold Prices Poised to Hit Rs. 90,000 in 2025 Amid Global Trends
Gold is projected to extend its recordbreaking performance in 2025, potentially reaching Rs. 85,000–Rs. 90,000 per 10 grams in domestic markets if geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties persist. Currently priced at Rs. 79,350 per 10 grams in spot markets, gold saw its best performance in 2024, delivering 23% returns and peaking at Rs. 82,400 per 10 grams in October. Global Comex gold futures also surged, reaching $2,790 per ounce, yielding 28% returns in 2024. Analysts attribute this bullish trend to geopolitical instability, central bank purchases, and a shift towards lower interest rates. Central banks
Gold price is hovering at Rs 79,350 per 10 grams in spot markets at present, and Rs 76,600 per 10 grams in futures trade on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX)
purchased over 500 tonnes of gold in 2024, bolstering prices amid currency concerns. In India, a 6% import duty cut in July 2024 triggered a sharp price correction, spurring physical gold demand during the festive season. Gold jewellery consumption rose by 17% year-on-year, driven by affordability and increased rural demand. However, experts note challenges ahead. A cautious U.S. Federal Reserve approach to rate cuts and fading geopolitical uncertainty premiums may temper gains. Domestically, the rupee's depreciation could support prices despite global pressures. Silver mirrored gold's rally, gaining 30% and surpassing Rs. 1 lakh per kg in 2024. It is expected to climb further, with a target of Rs. 1.25 lakh per kg.
Madoff victims get $4.3B payout
A fund created by the US government to help compensate victims of the late fraudster Bernard Madoff has begun making its final round of payments, according to a statement by the Department of Justice (DoJ).
The payouts being made by the Madoff Victim Fund (MVF) are worth $131.4m (£104.6m) and will bring the total amount it has returned to 40,930 claimants to $4.3bn. Madoff, a Wall Street financier disgraced after he admitted to one of the biggest frauds in US financial history, died in prison in 2021.
He had been serving a 150-year sentence after pleading guilty in 2009 to running a so-called Ponzi scheme, which paid investors with money from new clients rather than actual profits.
"MVF's distributions offset one of the most monstrous financial crimes ever
committed," said Richard C Breeden, who runs the MVF.
Mr Breeden is a former chairman of the US financial regulator, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
"We have brought tens of thousands of victims to the greatest recovery we could achieve," he added.
Madoff's victims were a mixture of wealthy individuals, less well-off people and companies - both large and smallas well as schools, charities and pension funds.
The MFV estimates it will have recovered nearly 94% of the victims' proven losses when it completes its mission in 2025.
The stock tanked 7.95% to Rs 303.30 on the BSE; at the NSE, it tumbled 7.80% to Rs 303.10
of AEL and nephew of group founder and chairman Gautam Adani, and Malay Mahadevia will resign from the board upon execution of the agreement. The transaction is expected to conclude before March 31, 2025.
Proceeds from the stake sale will be used to turbocharge the growth of AEL in core infrastructure businesses.
Adani Wilmar is an equal joint venture between Adani Enterprises and Wilmar Group, both holding 43.94 per cent stake each as of September 30, 2024.
The firm got listed on stock exchanges in February 2022 after raising Rs 3,600 crore through an initial share sale.
Adani Wilmar Limited (AWL) was established in January 1999 as a joint venture.
Crypto fugitive Do Kwon extradited to US over $40bn crash
A South Korean man accused of being responsible for a cryptocurrency crisis which cost investors $40bn (£31.8bn) has finally been extradited to the United States. Do Kwon was the boss of Terraform, which operated two cryptocurrencies - TerraUSD and Luna - both of which collapsed in 2022, sparking a wider sell-off in the crypto market.
The US says he was responsible for the coins' failure, accusing him of "orchestrating a multi-billion dollar crypto asset securities fraud".
Kwon fled South Korea after a warrant for his arrest was issued, eventually ending up in Montenegro where he has now been extradited from, following a lengthy legal battle.
He was previously found guilty of forging documents by a Montenegro court, having been arrested as he was attempting to board a plane to Dubai in March 2023.
It had been unclear whether he would face criminal proceedings in the US, however, as Montenegro does not have extradition treaties with the US or South Korea, which has also been seeking his extradition.
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Internet Hails Sikandar Teaser as "Mass Bonanza"
The much-awaited teaser of Salman Khan's upcoming film Sikandar dropped on Saturday. Highoctane action, Salman's trademark style, Salman's larger-than-life persona in fighting the bad guys - the teaser has it all!
The teaser was initially scheduled to drop on December 27 on the occasion of Salman's 59th birthday, but it had to be postponed due to former Prime Minister of India Manmohan Singh's death. The makers then announced that it will be dropped on Saturday at 4:07 PM, which led fans to wait in excitement and anticipation.
Malaika Arora
on 2024 After Arjun Split
Malaika Arora, on Monday, opened up about the lessons that 2024 taught her, with its several challenges and changes. But the one thing she has learnt this year is to trust herself more.
The actress reshared a note on her Instagram Stories reflecting on the challenges and growth she has experienced over the year. This comes just days after she responded to her ex, Arjun Kapoor's public comment about being "single."
Responding to Arjun's comment during an interview, Malaika said, "I will never choose a public platform to talk about my personal life. So, whatever Arjun has said is entirely his prerogative."
The note read, "I don't hate you, 2024, but you were a difficult year, full of challenges, changes, and learning. You showed me that life can change in the blink of an eye and taught me to trust myself more. But, above all, you made me understand that my health-whether physical, emotional, or mental-is what really matters. There are things I still can't understand, but I believe that with time, I will understand the reasons and purposes of everything that happened."
For the unversed, 2024 was a difficult year for Malaika for two reasons - her father Anil Arora died this year, and her seven-year relationship with Arjun Kapoor with ended too.
At the Diwali bash hosted by Raj Thackeray, Arjun had said, "Nahin ab main single hoon, relax karo (No, I am now single. Relax)," while interacting with media. Malaika Arora and Arjun Kapoor began dating in 2018, a year after Malaika's divorce from Arbaaz Khan. Their relationship ended just before Malaika lost her father. Despite their breakup, Arjun stood by her and offered his support during this challenging time.
Karan Johar, Kartik Aaryan Team Up for "Tu Meri Main Tera"
New Delhi: Guys, Kartik Aaryan is in a Karan Johar film. Oh yes. You read that right. On Wednesday (December 25), KJo presented fans with the best Christmas gift. The filmmaker shared an announcement video on Instagram confirming his collaboration with Kartik. Titled Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri, the film is touted to be a romantic comedy. It will open to theatres in 2026. The video begins with Kartik Aaryan's voice in the background ranting about his love life. He talks about three break-ups which led the women to feel miserable. Determined not to make his fourth girlfriend suffer like that, he promises to give his all. “Mujhse bichadne ka FOMO mai usse hone nahi dunga. Mummy kasam khayi hai maine aur mummy ki khayi hui har kasam yeh mama's boy puri karke hi rehta hai. (I won't let her experience the FOMO of losing me. I've sworn on my mother, and this mama's boy fulfills every oath taken on his mother.) The 1991 hit track Saat Samundar Paar playing in the background adds an extra dose of flair.
Allu Arjun-starrer sees sharp jump, mints Rs 1141.35 crore
Allu Arjun‘s Pushpa 2: The Rule continues its unstoppable run even in its fourth week, achieving remarkable box office milestones. The film witnessed a sharp 42 per cent jump in its Saturday collections, minting Rs 12.5 crore, according to Sacnilk. This has elevated its total domestic collection to an impressive Rs 1141.35 crore. The Hindi version of Pushpa 2 has played a significant role in boosting its weekend collections with an estimated Rs 741.15 crore earned so far. The Telugu version follows closely with Rs 322.23 crore, while the Tamil version has contributed Rs 56.3 crore over the past 24 days. Meanwhile, the Kannada and Malayalam versions accounted for Rs 7.57 crore and Rs 14.1 crore, respectively.
Recap 2024: Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan To Ranbir Kapoor, Bollywood Stars We Missed On Big Screen
In 2024, new actors ruled Bollywood with unconventional, massy, and entertaining films. As we wrap the year, let's look back at the stars who remained missing from the big screen.
From the three Khans, Shah Rukh, Salman and Aamir, to Ranbir Kapoor and Ayushmann Khurrana, these celebs had no major films in 2024.
This year was a mixed bag at the box office. Small and mid-scale films rose to shine whereas some of the biggest titles failed to ignite fire. New stars emerged, marking the beginning of a contemporary wave of Indian cinema. Despite the new wave, changing box office patterns, and
Salman Khan
Bollywood’s Bhaijaan, Salman Khan, had cameos in Singham Again and Baby John this year. His fans will have to wait till Eid 2025 to watch him in the lead role. Salman’s upcoming film is Sikandar with Rashmika Mandanna. The Sajid Nadiadwala-produced film releases on Eid 2025.
dynamics, the Hindi film industry did miss its OG superstars. The three Khans of Bollywood – Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan – had no releases in 2024. 2024 comes to an end. As we wrap the year, let’s look back and find out which superstar remained absent from the big screen.
Shah Rukh Khan
After three back-to-back films in his comeback year (2023), Shah Rukh had no releases in 2024. He is currently preparing to take King on floors with his daughter Suhana Khan, Abhishek Bachchan and Abhay Verma. Siddharth Anand, who directed Shah Rukh’s comeback film, Pathaan, has reportedly taken over the project. He is directing and co-producing the action spectacle. As per reports, King will release in 2026.
Ranbir Kapoor
Ranbir Kapoor had no films in 2024 because he’s gearing up for the two biggest releases of 2026. The actor is working on the Ramayana franchise as well as Love And War. The first part of the mythological magnum opus releases in Diwali 2026 and the sequel hits silver screen in 2027. Love And War by Sanjay Leela Bhansali is scheduled to release on March 20, 2026.
Aamir Khan
It’s been two years since Aamir Khan had no releases. The unexpected failure of Laal Singh Chaddha prompted him to take an indefinite break. In 2025, Aamir will end his hiatus with Sitare Zameen Par. Aamir is also producing Sunny Deol and Preity Zintastarrer Lahore 1947.
Ayushmann Khurrana
Ayushmann Khurrana remained missing from the big screen this year. As per reports, the actor has been reading multiple scripts. He joins the Maddock Supernatural Universe with Thama in 2025. Rashmika Mandanna is his co-star. Reportedly, Sooraj Barjatya has locked him as the new Prem in his upcoming film.
Diljit Dedicates Guwahati Concert to Manmohan Singh
Mumbai: Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh, who has been scooping adulation across the world courtesy his live shows, dedicated his recent show in Guwahati to the former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
The actor-singer took to his Instagram on Sunday, and shared a video from his show. In the video, Diljit paid a moving tribute to the former PM, and said that MMS was a man of grace, who always conducted himself in a sophisticated manner, and never answered anyone in an uncivilised manner.
He said, "Today's concert is dedicated to former late Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He led a very simple life. He never used to answer back or talk ill which is quite immpossible in a profession like politics".
Manoj Bajpayee Wraps Family Man 3, Asks Fans to Wait
Manoj Bajpayee has shared an update on The Family Man 3. The actor has wrapped up the shoot for the third season of the Prime Video series. Oh boy, we cannot wait for it to arrive on the OTT platform now.
On Saturday (December 28), Manoj Bajpayee announced the happy news on his Instagram Stories. A picture of the clapperboard featured in the post. The words, “It's a wrap” can be seen scribbled on it. Manoj Bajpayee celebrated the occasion by relishing a nutty-flavoured chocolate cake. “2024 shoot wrap” is written with white icing on two chocolate bars kept atop the dessert. The side note read, “Shooting wrapped. For The Family Man 3. Aur thoda intezaar (Just a little more wait.” Back in September, Manoj Bajpayee flew to Nagaland for the filming of The Family Man 3. Alongside the crew members, he was accompanied by his co-stars Shreya Dhanwanthary, Sharib Hashmi and Dalip Tahil.
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Rohit Sharma To Quit Test Cricket, Says Report. Announcement Likely After...
Indian cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma is all set to announce his retirement after the end of the ongoing five-match Test series against Australia, according to a report by Times Of India. The report claimed that the BCCI top brass and selectors have already spoken about the decision and it is highly unlikely that Rohit will be changing his mind. While the exact time of the announcement is not determined, the report said that it will happen after the final Test match in Sydney. However, if India qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, Rohit may try to convince the selectors to allow him to stay.
India skipper Rohit Sharma looked shattered as he confessed to being "disturbed" after the heavy loss to Australia in the fourth Test here, saying there are "things" that he needs to address at a personal level apart from the team's collective problems amid intense focus on his form. With 31 runs in six innings across
Gambhir, Rohit to face BCCI grilling
The year 2024 ended on a strange note for the Indian cricket team, with a string of poor results hurting World Test Championship final qualification chances. First the home whitewash against New Zealand and then the twin defeats in Adelaide and Melbourne leaving the team's fate hanging in balance. While tough talks are unlikely to be held, with one match still to go in the series, the coach-captain duo of Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma are reportedly set to be grilled by the BCCI top management over the recent results.
three Tests, the Indian skipper's tally is just one more than Jasprit Bumrah's series wicket-haul of 30. The clamour for Test retirement have reached a crescendo and Sydney could be his final port of call in whites but he
doesn't want to go out without a fight. Where does he stand as a batter and as a captain? What is his frame of mind? The questions are many but the answers are not so simple.
"I stand where I am standing today.
Bumrah nominated for ICC Test Cricketer award
India's peerless fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was on Monday nominated along with England duo Joe Root and Harry Brook and Sri Lanka's Kamindu Mendis for the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year award.
Bumrah has been the best bowler in Test cricket in 2024 with 71 wickets from
13 matches at an average of 14.92 and a strike rate of 30.16, the best figures for any bowler in the traditional format. The right-arm pacer has also been the best bowler in the ongoing BorderGavaskar Trophy with 30 wickets in a mere four Tests Down Under.
"Having returned to the Test arena following his recovery from a recurring back injury in 2023, Bumrah dominated the bowling charts in 2024. Featuring across 13 Tests in the calendar year, Bumrah delivered his best-ever annual tally — 71 wickets — finishing the year with more Test wickets than any of his counterparts," the ICC said on its website. The ICC rated Bumrah's match-defining spells at Perth, to guide India to a 295-run win, among his most memorable performances.
Indian cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma is all set to announce his retirement after the end of the ongoing fivematch Test series against Australia, according to a report.
There is nothing to think about what has happened in the past. Obviously, few results have not gone our way. As a captain, yes, that is disappointing," he tried to conceal his disappointment after the 184-run defeat but then revealed what has become obvious. He is not in a happy place.
"You know, a lot of the things that I am trying to do is not falling in the place that I would want to. But mentally, look, you know, it is disturbing without a doubt. If you have come here and try and do successfully what you're supposed to and if those things don't fall in place, that is a big disappointment. But as of now, that is where it is," Rohit explained.
Sumit Nagal Refuses National Duty Again
Sumit Nagal has yet again refused to play for the country in the Davis Cup, putting "unreasonable conditions" for his return even as Sasikumar Mukund on Friday came back to the national squad for the tie against Togo after his suspension was revoked by the AITA Executive Committee. Nagal, who has been struggling on the ATP tour, had pulled out of the tie against Sweden in September citing a back strain. He had also refused to travel to Islamabad .
"I've Had Enough": Furious Gautam Gambhir
Lashes Out At India Stars, Issues Stern Warning
The Indian cricket team faces internal discord as it trails Australia 2-1 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with just one Test remaining in Sydney. Head coach Gautam Gambhir is under pressure as India's hopes of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final hang by a thread. Despite earlier successes against Sri Lanka and New Zealand, Gambhir's strategies are being questioned following the team’s dismal performance in Melbourne. Gambhir reportedly expressed
head coach
defeat against Australia in Melbourne.
frustration at players' poor decisions during the fourth Test, citing reckless dismissals as the turning point.
According to Indian Express, Gambhir told the team, "Bahut ho gaya (I’ve had enough)," and emphasized that players must adhere to his plans moving forward or face exclusion.
The tension stems from a growing conflict between Gambhir’s strategies and the players’ on-field decisions. In Melbourne, Rishabh Pant’s reckless shot, Virat Kohli’s unnecessary edge chasing a wide delivery, and skipper Rohit Sharma’s inability to convert a start
into a big score exemplified the team's lack of discipline.
Gambhir had previously given players six months to play their way but now insists on stricter adherence to his strategies. The head coach’s ultimatum reflects a deep dissatisfaction with the team’s inconsistent performances.
With the final Test in Sydney looming, the Indian team must resolve its internal issues quickly to salvage the series and keep its WTC final hopes alive. Serious action may be taken if players fail to align with Gambhir’s vision.
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Gautam Gambhir is said to have lost his cool in the dressing room after the team's defeat
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Jimmy Carter, Former US President, Dies At 100
Washington, United States: Jimmy Carter, the 100-yearold former US president and Nobel peace laureate who rose from humble beginnings in rural Georgia to lead the nation from 1977 to 1981, has died, his nonprofit foundation said Sunday. Carter had been in hospice care since mid-February 2023 at his home in Plains, Georgia -- the same small town where he was born and once ran a peanut farm before becoming governor of the Peach State and running for the White House.
Hits All-New Low
Australia Media
Insults Virat Kohli Again
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Virat Kohli's love affair with Australian media isn't something new. Over the years, Kohli has had several battles with Australian media during India's tours Down Under. Be it Kohli's altercation with journalists at the Melbourne airport or his heated exchange with Sam Konstas prompting media backlash, Kohli has been making headlines in local papers since the start of the 4th Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. After being branded a 'joker' over his clash with Konstas, Kohli has been targeted in the local papers again.
On Sunday, an Australian tabloid came up with the headline "Virat, I am your father", referring to Sam Konstas, who hit a half-century in his debut Test innings. The description of the article further read: "Young star who rattled down Kohli and his Indians primed to get Aussies back on track".
Punjab Bandh: Farmers Block Roads At Many Places, Traffic Hit
Chandigarh: Farmers blocked roads at many places across the state on Monday as part of their Punjab bandh call, hamstringing the commuter traffic.
A call for a shutdown was given last week by Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Nonpolitical) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha over the Centre not accepting the demands of protesting farmers.
The bandh will be observed from 7 am to 4 pm. Farmers observed a sit-in at Dhareri Jattan Toll Plaza which affected vehicular movement on the PatialaChandigarh National Highway.
At Amritsar's Golden Gate, farmers started to assemble near the city's entry point while in Bathinda's Rampura Phul, they blocked roads.
A call for a shutdown was given last week by Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha over the Centre not accepting the demands of protesting farmers.
Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday said though there will be a complete bandh, emergency services will be allowed to operate.
India Not "Lucky" On Security Front: Rajnath Singh Calls For Vigilance
Bhopal: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said today that India a "not a very lucky nation in terms of security and urged soldiers to keep a sharp eye on internal and external foes. Addressing army personnel at the two-plus Century old Mhow cantonment in the Indore district of Madhya Pradesh, he said, this is because "our northern border and western border continuously face challenges". "We also face challenges on the internal
front," said the minister, who is on a tour of the state.
"In the backdrop of this, we can't sit quiet, unconcerned. Our enemies, whether internal or external, remain active always. In these circumstances, we must keep a close eye on their activities and take appropriate and timely effective steps against them," the minister told the soldiers.
To make Bharat a developed and selfreliant country by 2017, the role of the army is very crucial, he added.
"As the country's defence minister, I would like to tell you that we should be alert always. This patch of time, though often referred to as peacetime, struck me deeply when I arrived and witnessed the discipline and dedication with which you are undergoing training. Your regimen is no less than that of a war," he told the gathering.
Elon Musk Calls -1B System "Broken"
After "War" Vow
Elon Musk and Indian-American tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy have recently clashed with supporters of Donald Trump over the issue of immigration.
Days after vowing to "go to war" to defend the H-1B visas, tech billionaire Elon Musk on Sunday said the system, which is used to bring skilled foreign workers to the US, is "broken" and needs a "major reform". Mr Musk and Indian-American tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy have recently clashed with supporters of US President-elect Donald Trump over the polarising issue of immigration.
Mr Musk and Mr Ramaswamy, who are set to be part of the incoming Trump administration, have backed the H-1B program.
Posting on X, the social media site he owns, Mr Musk, who himself migrated from South Africa on an H-1B, said he has "been very clear" that the H-1B program is "broken" and "needs major reform". He was responding to a user who said the US needs to be a destination for the "world's most elite talent", but the H-1B program "isn't the way to do that".
"The bandh will be observed from 7 am to 4 pm. However, emergency services will remain operational. Anyone travelling to the airport to catch a flight or anyone going to attend a job interview, or anyone needs to attend a wedding... all these things have been kept out of our bandh call," he said.
Meanwhile, 70-year-old farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's hunger strike entered its 35th day on Monday.
Mr Dallewal has so far refused medical treatment.
Hundreds of farmers have been protesting at the Punjab-Haryana border demanding a legal guarantee of a minimum support price (MSP) for crops.
Students Clash with Cops in Bihar; Prashant Kishor Booked
New Delhi: A police case has been filed against election strategist-turned political leader Prashant Kishore, leaders of his Jan Suraaj party, a few coaching centre owners and 700 unknown protesters over the massive student protests in Bihar held on Sunday. They have been accused of "unauthorisedly" gathering people, instigating them and creating a law and order problem.
Azerbaijan Claims Plane Shot by Russia
Baku: The Azerbaijan Airlines plane that crashed in Kazakhstan this week killing 38 people, was damaged due to a shooting from the ground in Russia, the Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said on Sunday. He also accused Moscow of having tried to hide the cause of a deadly jet crash and called for Russia to admit "guilt" in the disaster.
President Aliyev said he regretted that "some circles" in Russia had tried to hush up the truth about the crash, in which 38 of the 67 people on board were killed, by sowing false narratives about the causes of the crash, the Azerbaijan state television reported.
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Trump Asks Supreme Court to Halt TikTok Ban Law
Washington:
US President-elect Donald Trump filed a brief Friday urging the Supreme Court to pause a law that would ban TikTok the day before his January 20 inauguration if it is not sold by its Chinese owner ByteDance.
"In light of the novelty and difficulty of this case, the court should consider staying the statutory deadline to grant more breathing space to address these issues," Trump's legal team wrote, to give him "the opportunity to pursue a political resolution."
Trump was fiercely opposed to TikTok during his 2017-21 first term, and tried in vain to ban the video app on national security grounds.
Biden Praises Manmohan Singh for US-India Ties
Mourning the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, US President Joe Biden has called him “a true statesman” and credited his strategic vision and political courage for the unprecedented level of bilateral cooperation.
Singh, who was India’s prime minister for 10 years from 2004 to 2014 died in New Delhi on Thursday night. He was 92.
"The unprecedented level of cooperation between the United States and India today would not have been possible without the Prime Minister’s strategic vision and political courage,” Biden said in a statement as he and the First Lady, Jill Biden, joined the people of India in grieving the loss of the former prime minister.
“From forging the US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement to helping launch the first Quad between Indo-Pacific partners, he charted path-breaking progress that will continue to strengthen our nations— and the world—for generations to come. He was a true statesman.
A dedicated public servant. And above all, he was a kind and humble person,” Biden said. The outgoing US President said he had the chance to meet Prime Minister Singh as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 2008 and as Vice President during his Official State Visit to the United States in 2009.
Farewell, Manmohan Singh. Last Rites With State Honours, Nation Pays Tribute
Dr Manmohan Singh, known as the 'architect of India's economic reforms', was Prime Minister for two terms in the Congress-led UPA government from 2004 to 2014.
the next seven days and will resume on January 3. A row erupted between the Centre and Congress over the allotment of space for Dr Singh's memorial on Friday. The Congress condemned the allocation of the Nigambodh Ghat for the final rituals instead of a location where a memorial
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi about exploring the possibility of building a memorial for Dr Singh at the same site where the last rites would be held. "Apropos our telephonic conversation this morning, wherein I made a request to hold Dr Manmohan Singh's last rites, which will take place tomorrow i.e. 28th December 2024, at his final resting place that would be a sacrosanct venue for a memorial of the great son of India. This is in keeping with such tradition of having memorials of statesmen and former prime ministers at the very place of their funerals," Mr Kharge wrote in a letter on Friday.
US Issues over 1Million Nonimmigrant Visas to Indians Again
New Delhi: The US mission in India on Friday said it issued more than one million nonimmigrant visas for the second year in a row, including a record number of visitor visas, underscoring the huge demand of Indians for travel to the US.
Washington is also working to formally establish a US-based to renew H-1B
visas in that country in 2025 that is expected to benefit a significant number of Indians. In the past four years, visitor numbers from India have increased by five times, and more than two million Indians travelled to the US in the first 11 months of 2024, a 26 per cent increase over the same period in 2023, it said.
Over five million Indians already have a nonimmigrant visa to visit the US and each day the mission issues thousands more, the embassy said.
"The US mission to India issued more than one million nonimmigrant visas for the second year in a row, including a record number of visitor visas, underscoring the huge demand of Indians for travel to the United States for tourism, business, and education," it said in a readout.
Nitish Reddy: Youngest Indian Centurion in Australia at No.8
Nitish Kumar Reddy became the first Indian batter to score a century in Australia while batting at No.8 on Saturday. The young all-rounder got to his maiden century in international cricket with a boundary off long on off Scott Boland in the final session of Day 3 in the fourth Test. The close to 80000 crowd at the iconic MCG stood up to applaud as Nitish took his helmet off, got down on one knee and placed it on top of the handle to throw a salute to the heavens. His father, who was present at the MCG when his son, 21, became the third youngest Indian to score a maiden Test century in Australia;
Homelessness In US Hits New Record, 23 In Every 10,000 Without A Home: Report
Washington, United States:
The number of people in the United States experiencing homelessness reached a new record this year, with lingering inflation and high housing prices among likely drivers, a government report said Friday.
An estimated 771,480 people were homeless on a single night in January 2024, rising 18 percent from 2023, said the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in an annual assessment.
This translates to about 23 in every 10,000 people in the country, home to the world's biggest economy. The uptick came as households felt the pressure from housing costs, with the median rent for January 2024 being
20 percent higher than that in January 2021, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. Apart from housing costs, the HUD report flagged "stagnating wages among middle- and lower-income households, and the persisting effects of systemic racism" as other factors.
Other contributing issues included natural disasters that displaced people, rising immigration and an end to homelessness prevention programs introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Australian Media Calls Virat Kohli "Clown" Over Konstas Incident
'The West Australian' humiliated the former India captain by using the headline - 'Clown Kohli.' Kohli was also called a sook (crybaby or coward) over his act.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) match referee Andy Pycroft might have announced his verdict on the Virat Kohli-Sam Konstas incident on Day 1 of the 4th Test in Melbourne but Australian media isn't. Kohli and Konsts had a heated clash in the middle, with the India star seemingly deliberately pushing the Aussie opener with his shoulder. The incident prompted plenty of backlash, both on the field and off it, with several former cricketers sharing their views on the topic.
“Dr Singh was one of the greatest champions of the US-India strategic partnership, and his work laid the foundation for much of what our countries have accomplished together in the past two decades,” US Secretary of State Tony Blinken said. The US has offered its condolences on the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling him "one of the greatest champions of the bilateral strategic partnership." Singh, the architect of India's economic reforms, died at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences on Thursday night. He was 92. He is survived by his wife Gursharan Kaur, a history professor, and three daughters.
"Wise,
Manmohan Singh, Ex-PM, Dies at 92
Former Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh has died at the age of 92. Singh was one of India's longestserving prime ministers and he was considered the architect of key liberalising economic reforms, as premier from 2004-2014 and before that as finance minister. He had been admitted to a hospital in the capital Delhi after his health condition deteriorated, reports say.
'Manmohan Singh's contribution to country's development, progress will be remembered': Modi
"Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride."
Thoughtful, Honest": When Obama Praised Manmohan Singh In His Memoir
Former US President Barack Obama, in his memoir "A Promised Land," paid tribute to Dr. Singh's exceptional leadership, describing him as a "man with uncommon wisdom". Obama praised Dr. Singh's commitment to economic reform, his dedication to the well-being of the Indian people, and his unwavering integrity. Mr Obama wrote that Dr. Singh, an eminent economist, had managed to lift millions of people from poverty and that the markings of his Sikh faith made him look "holy" in the eyes of the West. He further added that Dr Singh's tenure as a Prime Minister proved that he was "wise, thoughtful, and scrupulously honest". Dr. Singh's impact on India's economic landscape is undeniable. He implemented policies that encouraged growth, reduced poverty, and increased access to education and healthcare.
Plane Crash: Speculation Links Russian Air Defence
Azerbaijan on Thursday observed a nationwide day of mourning for the victims of the air crash that killed 38 people and left all 29 survivors injured as speculation mounted about a possible
cause of the crash that remained unknown. Azerbaijan Airlines’ Embraer 190 was en route from Azerbaijan’s capital of Baku to the Russian city of Grozny in the North Caucasus on Wednesday when it was diverted for reasons yet unclear and crashed while making an attempt to land in Aktau in Kazakhstan after flying east across the Caspian Sea.
The plane went down about 3km from Aktau. Cellphone footage circulating online appeared to show the aircraft making a steep descent before smashing into the ground in a fireball.
Mumbai terror attacks plotter Abdul Rehman Makki dies
Mumbai terror attack plotter and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) deputy chief Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki died on Friday, December 27, in Pakistan after suffering a heart attack, sources told.
in Pakistan
Makki had been ill for the past few days and was undergoing treatment for high sugar levels at a private hospital in Lahore.
In May 2019, Makki was arrested by the Pakistan government and was put under house arrest in Lahore. In 2020, a Pakistani court also convicted him in cases linked to terror financing and sentenced him to life imprisonment.
â€ïIn January 2023, Makki was also declared a "global terrorist" by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
UN health chief at Yemen airport during Israeli strikes
The head of the World Health Organization (WHO) and other UN staff were at Yemen's international airport in Sanaa on Thursday during Israeli air strikes which are reported to have killed at least six people.
WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said they were about to board a plane when the attacks began.
Houthi-run Saba news agency said three people were killed at the airport and 30 injured. It said another three people were killed and 10 wounded in the western Hodeidah province.
The Iran-backed rebel group described the attacks - which also hit power stations and ports - as "barbaric". Israel's military said it carried out "intelligencebased strikes on military targets".
It is unclear whether the fatalities were civilians or Houthi rebels.
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California Officials Warned by America First Legal Over Interfering With Immigration Enforcement
The warnings coincide with remarks from Tom Homan, President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming “border czar,” who suggested that city officials could face charges for obstructing federal immigration efforts.
LOS ANGELES, CA- California
officials, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Attorney General Rob Bonta, received letters this week from America First Legal, a nonprofit founded by Stephen Miller, warning against impeding federal immigration enforcement. The letters, dated Dec. 23, assert that sanctuary poli-cies violate federal law and expose officials to potential criminal and civil liability. The letters highlight that individuals living in the U.S. illegally are subject to removal and warn officials
of consequences for concealing or harboring them. Addressing Bonta specifically, the letter claims his statements encourage defiance of federal immigration laws, branding California’s
stance as “lawless.”
The warnings coincide with remarks from Tom Homan, President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming “border czar,” who suggested that city officials could face charges for obstructing federal immigration efforts.
California Attorney General Bonta dismissed the letters as “scare tactics” and reaffirmed the state’s com-mitment to Senate Bill 54, a 2017 law limiting local involvement in federal immigration enforcement. Bon-ta emphasized that SB 54, upheld by courts during Trump’s first term, does not prevent federal
USCIS Scraps Proposed Changes to U.S. Citizenship Test After Public Backlash
WASHINGTON, DC- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced it would not move forward with a proposed redesign of the naturalization test. A Federal Register notice published Monday cited widespread public concerns that the changes could create unnecessary barriers for applicants.
The agency had unveiled plans in 2022 to trial a new version of the test, aiming to improve efficiency and accessibility. However, feedback from over 1,300 public comments revealed concerns that the proposed changes would increase burdens instead.
The naturalization test, a key step in obtaining U.S. citizenship, currently includes an English test and a civ-ics test. Proposed changes for the Englishspeaking portion included requiring applicants to describe three photographs depicting everyday scenarios, such as weather or food. Critics argued this added preparation burdens and did not effectively assess language skills.
For the civics test, USCIS suggested a multiple-choice format displayed on a tablet, requiring applicants to select correct answers from four options. Critics noted this demanded higherlevel reading comprehension and testtaking skills, potentially disadvantaging adult learners and those without formal education.
Acknowledging the concerns, USCIS stated, “The majority of the feedback received revealed concerns that the trial version of the test may increase burdens on applicants.”
As a result, USCIS will continue using the 2008 version of the naturalization test, ensuring a consistent and fair process for citizenship applicants.
Congressman Thanedar Faces Racist Backlash for Supporting H-1B Reform
WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Shri Thanedar (D-MI) faced a wave of hateful rhetoric after advocating for expanding the H-1B visa program and streamlining legal immigration processes to bolster U.S. innova-tion. Thanedar, originally from Karnataka, India, criticized the backlash as fueled by "MAGA racism and xenophobia." He emphasized the importance of reform, stating, “By increasing H-1B visas and streamlining the green card process, America maintains its edge on innovation and discovery.” His stance led to an outpouring of racist comments, including calls for him to "go back to India" and suggestions he should be "denaturalized and deported."
Speaking out against the attacks,
Thanedar highlighted the persistent racism faced by Indian Americans, particularly around immigration debates. “Racism in America is still alive and well,” he said, urging unity against such hatred.
In response, Thanedar introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Hinduphobia, linking it to the broader issue of discrimination against Indian Americans. The H-1B program, often criticized by MAGA supporters for allegedly undercutting U.S. wages, predominantly benefits Indian professionals, making them a frequent target in immigration debates.
agencies from conducting enforcement.
Los Angeles Mayor Bass and San Diego County Supervisor Nora Vargas also defended their jurisdictions’ sanctuary policies, arguing these laws foster trust and protect local resources. Bass affirmed the city’s support for its immigrant population, while Vargas stated that immigration enforcement remains a federal responsibility.
The debate underscores the ongoing tension between federal and local authorities over immigration enforcement in sanctuary jurisdictions.
Mass Layoffs Hit Inland Empire's Warehousing Sector
INLAND EMPIRE, CA - By early February, 1,173 workers in the Inland Empire’s logistics and warehousing sectors will lose their jobs, according to California’s Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) filings.
DMSI, a Charlotte-based provider of industrial staffing, will lay off 1,106 workers across its three Moreno Valley locations and Perris facility by January 26. Additionally, 537 employees at its Shafter facility in Kern County face layoffs on the same date.
GXO Logistics Supply Chain Inc., headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, will cut 25 employees at its Colton facility, closing the site by February 7. GXO operates over 970 facilities globally, positioning itself as a major contract logistics provider. Mountain Valley Express LLC will lay off 42 workers at its Jurupa Valley and Ontario locations by January 23. Additional cuts include 19 jobs in Manteca, seven in Visalia, and six in Hayward. The company operates in warehousing and transportation across California, Arizona, and Nevada.
The logistics sector, driven by e-commerce growth, faces transformative changes with automation and tech advancements reducing labor demand. Global economic shifts and operational strategies significantly influence employment trends in this industry. The Inland Empire, a major logistics hub, reflects these broader market dynamics.
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U.S. Border Patrol Warns Against Winter Border Crossings
“El Paso Sector saw 176 migrant deaths due to illegal smuggling in FY 2024,” said Chief Patrol Agent An-thony Scott Good. “Crossing the border illegally is always dangerous, but winter amplifies these risks.”
EL PASO, TX — The U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector, in coordination with federal, state, and local law enforcement, is warning about the severe dangers of illegal border crossings during winter. Freezing temper-atures, combined with the region’s harsh deserts, mountains, and remote wilderness, pose life-threatening risks such as hypothermia and frostbite. Migrants also face increased dangers from heavy
holiday highway traffic.
“El Paso Sector saw 176 migrant deaths due to illegal smuggling in FY 2024,” said Chief Patrol Agent An-thony Scott Good. “Crossing the border illegally is always dangerous, but winter amplifies these risks.”
Authorities stress that transnational criminal organizations exploit vulnerable migrants, often abandoning them in perilous situations. Bernalillo
County District Attorney Sam Bregman noted, “Criminals exploit mi-grants seeking safety, leaving them victims of human trafficking and at even greater risk.”
Jason T. Stevens of Homeland Security Investigations emphasized, “Migrants trusting smugglers often face tragic consequences. We’re committed to partnerships that save lives and disrupt these criminal net-works.”
Musk and Ramaswamy Spark MAGA Divide Over Immigration Policy
WASHINGTON, DC- Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, tapped by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have ignited controversy within the MAGA move-ment with their proposal to expand immigration visas for high-skill workers.
Citing a shortage of top engineering talent, Musk argued on X that the U.S. tech industry needs to "double" its engineering workforce, emphasizing the
importance of recruiting global talent to ensure collective suc-cess. Ramaswamy supported Musk, criticizing American culture for prioritizing mediocrity over excellence and pointing out societal
biases against academic achievements. However, their comments have drawn sharp criticism from Trump loyalists, including Ann Coulter, Matt Gaetz, and Nikki Haley, who argue that expanding visas undermines Trump’s "America First" agenda. Haley rebuked their stance, stating, “We should be investing in Americans, not foreign workers.” Gaetz criticized the “tech bros” for overstepping their bounds on immigration policy, while Laura Loomer labeled the proposal a betrayal of MAGA principles, advocating for stricter visa restrictions.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai Joins the Festivities with an Ugly Sweater Contest for Holiday Fun
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA – Sundar Pichai joined in on the holiday fun by donning a cricket-themed ugly sweater for Google’s inaugural company-wide contest.
The black sweater, featuring cricket bats, a ball, Christmas trees, and snowflakes, perfectly reflected his well-known passion for the sport while embracing the festive spirit.
Sundar Pichai, who often shares glimpses of his love for cricket on social media, wore the sweater as part of a celebration that blended tradition with a modern tech twist. Google added a unique touch to the
usual holiday tradition by having its AI assistant, Gemini, judge the contest. This move brought a tech-savvy edge to the event, showcasing the company’s ongoing efforts to incorporate AI into everyday experiences.
Sundar Pichai, who often shares glimpses of his love for cricket on social media, wore the sweater as part of a celebration that blended tradition with a modern tech twist.
Sundar Pichai shared his excitement about the event on Instagram, saying, “We closed out 2024 with our first-ever Google-wide ugly sweater holiday contest last week. Gemini was the judge, and I have to say, it has good taste. Congrats to the winners, and thanks to everyone for the fun end of the year.”
FBI Special Agent John S. Morales added, “Organized crime preys on vulnerable individuals, exposing migrants to violence and abuse. We must work together to prevent these tragedies.” Officials urge migrants to use lawful pathways and seek assistance from appropriate organizations to avoid falling victim to dangerous smuggling schemes.
Teen Student Empowers Women with
Tote Bag Initiative
SAN RAMON, CA - Spoorthi Bedadam, a junior at Dougherty Valley High School, is making waves with her nonprofit, EmpowHer. The organization sells reusable tote bags with hand-painted designs to raise funds for hygiene products benefiting women in local shelters.
Since founding EmpowHer as a freshman, Bedadam has raised approximately $2,000, enabling her to do-nate over 10,000 essential items like sanitary pads, soaps, and body creams to shelters such as Tri-Valley Haven and Shepherd's Gate. Combining environmental awareness with social impact, Bedadam addresses a critical need in underserved communities.
“For many women, accessing sanitary products is a constant struggle,” Bedadam shared. “Knowing we are helping women meet their basic needs is incredibly rewarding.”
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed— she earned the Presidential Service Award in 2020, 2021, and 2022. Looking ahead, Bedadam plans to expand EmpowHer to reach even more women in need.
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"Doesn't Look Like Suicide": Elon Musk
To Indian-American Techie's Mother
a former employee at ChatGPT-parent OpenAI who accused the company of violating copyright laws, was found dead in his San Francisco apartment in November.
The mother of Suchir Balaji, a former employee at ChatGPT-parent OpenAI who accused the company of violating copyright laws in October and was found dead a month later, has demanded an FBI investigation into his death.
The 26-year-old techie was found dead in his San Francisco apartment in California on November 26. Officials had ruled Mr Balaji's death a suicide.
In a post on X on Sunday, his mother, Poornima Ramarao, said they hired a private investigator and did a second autopsy to throw light on the cause of death.
The private autopsy "doesn't confirm" the cause of death stated by police, she said.
Ms Ramarao also alleged that Mr Balaji's apartment - which was reportedly on the Buchanan Street - was "ransacked".
"There was a sign of struggle in the bathroom and it looks like someone hit him in the bathroom based on blood spots," she said.
"It's a cold-blooded murder declared by authorities as suicide. Lobbying in SF city doesn't stop us from getting justice," Ms Ramarao said while demanding an FBI probe.
In her post, she tagged billionaire Elon Musk and Indian-American tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who are set to be part of the incoming Donald Trump administration. Mr Musk, who has a long-standing feud with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, responded to her post, saying "This doesn't seem like a suicide".
According to media reports, Mr Balaji's father, Balaji Ramamurthy, while speaking at a vigil held for his son in Milpitas, California, said he was the last person to talk to him on November 22. During the 15-minute call, he said they talked about his Los Angeles trip which was part of his birthday celebration.
"He was in LA and having a good time. So he sent us all the pictures," Guardian quoted Mr Ramamurthy as saying. "He
Aries
Ganesha asays that the people of Aries will get good news related to career business, exam competition, etc. by the end of this week. If you have been looking for a job for a long time, then your wish can be fulfilled this week. At the beginning of the week, there will be an opportunity to participate in religious and social programs.
Taurus
was in a good mood."
What Suchir Balaji Said About OpenAI
Suchir Balaji had alleged that OpenAI's AI models were trained on copyrighted material scraped from the internet without authorisation, a practice he argued was harmful.
"If you believe what I believe, you have to just leave the company," Mr Balaji told the New York Times in an interview this year. He quit the company in October 2023 after spending nearly four years in the company. At OpenAI, he contributed to data collection for the company's flagship product, ChatGPT.
Mr Balaji explained his concerns further on his personal website, claiming that the company's process of copying data for model training amounted to potential copyright infringement.
He noted that while generative models rarely produce outputs identical to their training data, the act of replicating copyrighted material during training could violate laws if not protected under "fair use."
"This is not a sustainable model for the internet ecosystem as a whole," he told the New York Times in October.
OpenAI, however, disputed his claims, insisting that their data use adhered to fair use principles and legal precedents.
"We build our AI models using publicly available data, in a manner protected by fair use and related principles, and supported by longstanding and widely accepted legal precedents. We view this principle as fair to creators, necessary for innovators, and critical for US competitiveness," the company said in a statement.
After its release in 2022, he began questioning the legal and ethical implications of OpenAI's practices. By mid-2023, he concluded that such AI technologies were damaging to the internet and society, prompting his resignation.
Ganesha says that at the beginning of the week for the people of the Taurus zodiac, enthusiasm and enthusiasm will remain within you regarding your work and business, etc. During this time you will be able to achieve desired success in your field of work.
Gemini
Ganesha says that at the beginning of the week for the people of Gemini, you should avoid any kind of negligence in your workplace. At the same time be careful with your opponents, as they may try to disrupt your plans. In the middle of the week, some domestic problem can cause you stress, in solving which an influential person can play a big role.
Cancer
Ganesha says that the people of the Cancer zodiac should rely on their strength and capability instead of relying on others this week. At the beginning of the week, the mind will be a little upset due to not getting the help of colleagues or dear ones on time. However, by the middle of the week, the solution to your problems will slowly emerge.
Leo
Ganesha says that this week has brought auspiciousness and good fortune for the Leo zodiac sign, but don't try to lose consciousness by getting excited, otherwise your work may get spoiled. Take care of decorum even while joking with close friends and dear ones and do not insult anyone even by mistake, otherwise, there may be a rift in the relationship made.
Virgo
Ganesha says that the people of Virgo will need to manage their time and energy this week. At the beginning of the week, you may have an extra work burden. Along with
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this, domestic problems can also trouble you.
Libra
Ganeshasays that the people of the Libra zodiac will get full support of good luck at the beginning of the week. During this, enthusiasm and confidence will remain within you, with the help of which you will be able to complete your work properly and on time.
Scorpio
Ganeshasays that the people of the Scorpio zodiac will have a lot of need to control their speech and behavior this week. Bear in mind that you are the only one who can make things or break them. In such a situation, avoid getting angry and take any decision very carefully.
Sagittarius
Ganesha says that this week has brought a lot of auspiciousness and good luck for the people of Sagittarius. This week, the mind will be happy if the planned work is completed on time. Good news will be received in the job and business. There are chances of profit from money investments made in the past.
Capricorn
Ganesha ays that this week the natives of Capricorn will have to take full care not to do any work in haste. In such a situation, this week, avoid making any decision related to your career or business in haste or by getting carried away by emotions, otherwise, your work may also get spoiled.
Aquarius
Ganesha says that at the beginning of the week when additional sources of income will be created for the people of Aquarius, more money can be spent on the purchase of things related to material comforts.
Pisces
Ganesha says that this week is auspicious for the people of Pisces. At the beginning of the week, you will be seen getting the full support of luck. During this time harmony will be established with your higher officials and you will be able to get a transfer or promotion at your desired place.
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( Celebrity Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla)
Suchir Balaji was 26
Suchir Balaji,
Indian American Selected for USA Women’s U-19 World Cup Team
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NORTH CAROLINA- Nikhar Doshi has achieved a remarkable milestone by being selected to represent Team USA in the Women’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup. A passionate cricketer, Nikhar is an 11th-grade student who lives in North Carolina with her family. Her journey in cricket has been inspired and nurtured by her father and brother, who have been her coaches since childhood. Her father, Pinku Doshi, is an IT professional and a veteran at Cisco. Driven by a vision for both his children to excel in international cricket, he dedicated much of his time to coaching and mentoring Nikhar. Pinku also actively plays cricket for a local team. Nikhar’s older brother, Smit Doshi,
Illinois Flag Redesign Sparks Debate as Voting Begins
SPRINGFIELD, IL — Voting opens next month for the Illinois Secretary of State's non-binding poll on potential new state flags, with a slate of 10 finalists chosen from 4,844 public submissions. The process has faced scrutiny, with many questioning whether the selected designs truly represent the best options.
The Illinois Flag Commission, chaired by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, missed deadlines mandated by state law before convening and held only three meetings to finalize the candidates. The selection pro-cess, which included numerous submissions from schoolchildren and accidental duplicates, has drawn pub-lic indifference and criticism.
Illinois Patch, after reviewing all submissions via public records, identified several overlooked designs that rival or surpass the selected finalists in quality. However, the Secretary of State’s Office provided low-resolution images, citing resource limitations for retrieving original formats. The current Illinois flag, often ranked among the worst in North America, has its defenders, including Gov-ernor JB Pritzker. “I really like our current flag,” Pritzker said, while praising the effort behind the redesign process. Despite public input through the upcoming six-week voting period, there is no guarantee of adopting a new flag or holding an advisory referendum. The public remains uncertain about the impact of their votes, as the final decision rests with state officials. Showcased both standout and subpar submissions to shed light on the process, inviting further public en-gagement in shaping Illinois' visual identity.
shares a similar passion for the sport. He was previously selected for the USA Under-19 Men’s cricket team before the
Guided by Family: How Nikhar Doshi's Passion for Cricket Was Shaped by Her Father and Brother family relocated to Australia. Smit now runs his own cricket coaching practice in Australia and plays first-class cricket. The family’s love for cricket extends to Nikhar’s mother, Bindi Doshi, who is also an IT professional. Bindi enjoys playing cricket locally, making cricket a unifying passion for the entire family. Nikhar’s selection for the U-19 World Cup team marks a significant achievement, not just for her, but for the entire Doshi family. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and family support in pursuing dreams.
Philadelphia CBP Officers Seizes 22,000 Fake Vehiicle Stickers Decals from
Israel
PHILADELPHIA, PA - CBP Seizes
22,000 Counterfeit Vehicle Inspection
Stickers in Philadelphia
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Philadelphia confiscated 22,000 counterfeit Pennsylvania vehicle inspection stickers, valued at $1.4 million if authentic. The stickers, shipped from Israel, were seized on December 16, 2024.
The fake stickers were discovered in two shipments—10,000 stickers arriving on November 26 and 12,000 on December 9. CBP officers suspected fraud and detained the shipments, which were later confirmed counterfeit by Pennsylvania authorities. Pennsylvania law mandates annual vehicle inspections for compliance with safety and emissions standards. Counterfeit stickers enable unsafe vehicles to bypass inspections, posing significant risks to motorists. Ve-hicle owners caught using fake stickers face penalties of up to $500 and potential jail time.
“Unscrupulous actors peddling
USCIS to Release Revised Form I-129 on January 17, 2025
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WASHINGTON, DC- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will publish a revised edition of Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, on January 17, 2025 (edition date: 01/17/25). This update aligns with the H-1B modernization final rule and the H-2 modernization final rule announced earlier.
The 01/17/25 edition of Form I-129 will replace the 04/01/24 edition without any grace period. Effective January 17, 2025, USCIS will reject petitions submitted using the 04/01/24 edition.
Key Details:
Preview Availability: A preview version of the 01/17/25 edition of Form I-129 (PDF, 2.19 MB) and its instruc-tions are available.
Filing Restrictions:
• Do not file the 01/17/25 edition before January 17, 2025.
• USCIS will accept the 01/17/25 edition only if received on or after January 17, 2025.
• For Paper-Based Submissions:
• USCIS will accept the 04/01/24 edition if received before January 17, 2025.
• USCIS will not accept the 04/01/24 edition if received on or after January 17, 2025.
• Only the 01/17/25 edition will be accepted for petitions received on or after January 17, 2025. For additional details and access to the preview version, visit the USCIS website.
The fake stickers were discovered in two shipments—10,000 stickers arriving on November 26 and 12,000 on December 9. CBP officers suspected fraud and detained the shipments, which were later confirmed counterfeit by Pennsylvania authorities.
fraudulent vehicle inspection stickers create a very serious public safety concern," said Cleatus P. Hunt, Jr., CBP’s Area Port Director in Philadelphia. "Customs and Border Protec-tion officers will continue to seize illicit products that could harm consumers and public safety."
CBP officers, tasked with securing U.S. Ports of Entry, screen travelers and cargo to intercept illicit goods, including counterfeit consumer items, narcotics, and prohibited agricultural products. This seizure high-lights CBP's commitment to safeguarding public safety and maintaining economic integrity.
No arrests have been reported in connection with the counterfeit stickers.
California
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LOS ANGELES, CA- Los Angeles Police Department officials are investigating a violent home invasion robbery that occurred early Saturday morning at an apartment complex on Wilshire Boulevard near Ver-mont Avenue. According to authorities, three masked suspects dressed in police-style clothing broke into the residence just before 3 a.m. Once inside, they assaulted the resident and stole cash and jewelry. Police reported that one of the suspects was armed with a semi-automatic handgun. Paramedics treated the victim at the scene for non-lifethreatening injuries, and he is expected to recover. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to identify and apprehend the suspects.
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Fake Cops Robbery, Assault in
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Federal Court Authorizes IRS to Probe Gig Economy Tax Compliance
WASHINGTON, DC -A federal court in California has authorized the IRS to serve a John Doe summons on JustAnswer LLC, seeking records of U.S. taxpayers paid for answering questions as “experts” on the plat-form between 2017 and 2020. JustAnswer, headquartered in Covina, California, connects professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and engineers with users seeking answers, enabling gig-based income.
The IRS aims to identify individuals potentially failing to comply with federal tax laws. U.S. District Judge Dolly M. Gee found reasonable grounds to believe some taxpayers earning through JustAnswer may have underreported income. The order does not imply wrongdoing by JustAnswer itself but enables the IRS to investigate unknown
SoCal Sikhs Honor 10th Guru's Legacy
OMONA, CA – Thousands Celebrate the 358th Birth Anniversary of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Dar-bar-E-Khalsa Thousands gathered at Fairplex to honor the 358th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. Organized by the International Institute of Gurmat Studies (IIGS), the event began with Asa Ki Vaar recitation, followed by soulful Kirtan, free food prepared by Sikh volunteers, and a vibrant Khalsa Ba-zaar showcasing Sikh art, Punjabi clothing, and more. Attendees, including long-time participant Navjit Bedi, cherished the day’s spiritual and cultural offerings. “It’s a wonderful way to honor Guru Sahib’s legacy and connect with friends,” Bedi remarked. Youth from local Gurdwaras performed Kirtan alongside international raagi jathas, culminating in a spectacular joint performance.
U.S. District Judge Dolly M. Gee found reasonable grounds to believe some taxpayers earning through JustAnswer may have underreported income.
individuals earning income through its platform.
This action highlights growing concerns about tax compliance in the gig economy, which encompasses platforms like Uber, Etsy, and DoorDash. Deputy Assistant Attorney General David Hubbert emphasized the IRS's commitment to using all available tools to ensure taxpayers accurately report and pay taxes, regard-less of how income is earned. IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel echoed the sentiment, noting the agency’s resolve to close gaps for “tax cheats.”
The Justice Department and IRS remind gig workers of their obligation to report all income, including from part-time or side jobs. Guidance is available for both gig workers and digital platform providers on fulfilling tax obligations.
The IRS warns taxpayers to remain vigilant, as global enforcement of tax compliance tightens.
IOCUSA Pays Homage to Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh
"India has lost a great statesman, a man of immense intellect with incredible humility," said George Abra-ham, ViceChair of the Indian Overseas Congress, USA, expressing his condolences on the passing of for-mer Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. "He will be fondly remembered for his outstanding contributions to India's economic and social development."
Dr. Manmohan Singh, celebrated as
the Chief Architect of India's economic transformation, played a pivot-al role in reshaping the nation's economy. Under his visionary leadership, he transitioned India from a cen-trally planned, inwardlooking, public sector-driven economy to a liberalized, globally integrated one. His contributions are nothing short of revolutionary.
"If India has confidently entered the 21st century as a global economic player, Dr. Manmohan Singh's ef-forts have been a cornerstone of this transformation," added Abraham.
During his tenure as Prime Minister, Dr. Singh spearheaded policies that, according to the World Bank, lifted over 200 million people out of poverty. His legacy as a reformer and compassionate leader will continue to inspire future generations.
Healthcare Providers to Pay $10M to Resolve
Fraud Allegations
Party City to Shut Down Operations, Close All Stores Nationwide
NEW YORK, NY- Party City, the iconic party supply retailer, is officially going out of business, ending its 40-year legacy as the go-to destination for celebrations.
CEO Barry Litwin announced the closure during a company-wide video conference on Friday, marking the final day for corporate employees.
“This is without question the most difficult message I’ve ever had to deliver,” Litwin said, citing the company’s inability to overcome its financial struggles despite significant efforts.
The New Jersey-based chain, which operates 25 stores in the state, including in Bridgewater, Clark, and Jersey City, has faced mounting challenges. Party City filed for bankruptcy for the second time in two years after emerging from its first in 2023 burdened with $800 million in debt.
The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow as gatherings diminished, while inflation, supply chain issues, and a helium shortage exacerbated the situation. Competition from big-box retailers like Walmart and pop-up chains such as Spirit Halloween further strained the company.
USA names squad for U19 Women’s T20 WC
WASHINGTON –
Mohammad Rasekhi M.D., Sheila Busheri, Southern California Medical Center (SCMC), and R & B Medical Group Inc., operating as Universal Diagnostic Laboratories (UDL), have agreed to a $10 mil-lion settlement over allegations of submitting false claims to Medicare and California's Medi-Cal program. Accusations include paying kickbacks, self-referrals, and violating the Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) and Stark Law.
SCMC operates six clinics in Southern California, while UDL is a laboratory specializing in esoteric tests. Allegations state the defendants paid kickbacks to marketers and clinics to secure patient
referrals and re-ferred patients to UDL for lab services in violation of federal laws. The AKS prohibits financial incentives for patient referrals, and the Stark Act bars physician self-referrals for services reimbursed by federal pro-grams. Brian M. Boynton of the Justice Department emphasized the importance of untainted care, while
U.S. At-torney Martin Estrada reaffirmed commitment to healthcare program integrity. The settlement also bene-fits California’s Medicaid program, recovering approximately $4 million.
The case originated from a whistleblower complaint under the False Claims Act.
Relators Ferzad Abdi, Julia Butler, Jameese Smit, and Karla Solis, former employees of SCMC and UDL, will share in the recovery. A separate $5 million settlement resolved additional claims brought by the whistleblowers.
The settlement underscores federal efforts to combat healthcare fraud, led by the Department of Justice, HHS Office of Inspector General, and other agencies. Allegations remain unproven, with no admission of liability.
LOS ANGELES, CA – USA Cricket has unveiled its 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia, and one standout feature has caught everyone’s attention: all players, including the reserves, are of Indian American descent. The team, which blends experienced players with emerging talent, aims to build on their strong debut per-formance in the 2023 U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, according to the organization. Anika Kolan will continue as captain after leading the team successfully during their West Indies tour. She will be supported by Vice-Captain Aditiba Chudasama, whose experience will be invaluable for the squad.
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El Paso Border Patrol Agents Intercept 37 Undocumented Migrants in Tractor-Trailer
United Airlines Reacts to Body Found in Wheel Well
EL PASO, TX – El Paso Sector Border Patrol agents from the Las Cruces Station apprehended 37 undocumented migrants hidden in a tractortrailer during a routine inspection at the Interstate-25 checkpoint on Sunday. Agents detected movement near the rear door of the trailer and found individuals crouching be-hind freight.
The migrants, originating from Guatemala, Mexico, Cuba, El Salvador, and Ecuador, were transported to the Central Processing Center under Title 8 authority.
El Paso Sector has disrupted 24 tractortrailer smuggling attempts involving 387 migrants in Fiscal Year 2024. In FY 2025, agents have already intercepted four major smuggling events, resulting in 97 apprehen-sions.
Migrants smuggled in commercial vehicles face severe risks, including confined spaces, lack of seat belts,
Prof. Shamkant
Navathe: Inspiring Generations at Georgia Tech
ATLANTA, GA – Georgia Tech Honors
Prof. Shamkant B. Navathe for 50 Years of Academic Excellence
Georgia Tech celebrated Prof. Shamkant B. Navathe’s five decades of academic contributions, including 34 years at the university, with a luncheon and the inauguration of “The Shamkant B. Navathe Distinguished Lecture Series.” Navathe was also inducted into the College of Computing Hall of Fame during the event.
Renowned for his pioneering work in database systems, Navathe expressed gratitude for the honor and highlighted his passion for collaboration and learning. He is best known as the coauthor of Fundamentals of Database Systems, a global textbook standard since 1989, now in its seventh edition and translated into 12 languages.
The migrants, originating from Guatemala, Mexico, Cuba, El Salvador, and Ecuador, were transported to the Central Processing Center under Title 8 authority. and inadequate ventilation or climate control, leading to extreme temperatures. These conditions are ex-ploited by transnational criminal organizations, who lure individuals with false promises
of safe passage.
“Smuggling organizations endanger lives with deceptive tactics that violate U.S. immigration laws,” said El Paso Sector Chief Anthony Scott Good. “We’re committed to enforcing laws, holding smugglers accounta-ble, and protecting lives.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection encourages citizens to report suspicious activity anonymously at 1-800-6352509.
Nationwide Recall of Eye Drops Due to Fungal Contamination Risk, FDA Warns
NEW JERSEY — A major eye drop brand has issued a nationwide recall over concerns of fungal contamination, which could lead to serious eye infections and potentially threaten users' vision, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Alcon Laboratories, a Texas-based pharmaceutical company, is voluntarily recalling one lot of its Systane Lubricant Eye Drops Ultra PF, packaged in Single Vials On-the-Go (25-count). The
product is widely used for relieving dry eyes. The recall follows a customer complaint about foreign material discovered inside a sealed vial, which was later identified as fungal in nature.
The FDA warned that if the contaminated eye drops are used, they could cause fungal eye infections.
For some users, particularly those who are immunocompromised, such infections could pose severe health risks, including vision loss and lifethreatening complications.
As of now, no cases of infection have been reported, according to the FDA's recall notice. Users are urged to discontinue use of the affected product immediately and consult their healthcare provider if they expe-rience any unusual symptoms. For further details, including how to identify the recalled product, visit the FDA's website or contact Alcon Laboratories directly.
FDA Approves Generic Victoza for Diabetes
WASHINGTON, DC- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first generic version of Victoza (liraglutide injection) 18 mg/3 mL. This GLP-1 receptor agonist improves glycemic control in adults and children aged 10 and older with type 2 diabetes when combined with diet and exercise. This follows the FDA’s approval of a generic referencing Byetta (exenatide) last month. Currently, liraglutide and other GLP-1 medications face shortages. The FDA prioritizes generic drug applications for such drugs to improve patient access. Generic medications, which are typically more affordable, provide additional treatment options for patients.
Type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition impacting over 38 million Americans, occurs when the body struggles to manage blood sugar levels due to insulin inefficiency. Liraglutide mimics GLP1 effects in the pancreas, enhancing blood sugar regulation. However, the medication carries a Boxed Warning for increased thyroid C-cell tumor risks, making it unsuitable for patients with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multi-ple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Serious risks involve pancreatitis, kidney impairment, and hypoglycemia when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas.
The FDA emphasizes facilitating generic drug development, particularly for complex drugs like liraglutide, to increase competition and patient access. Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. manufactures the approved generic. For availability, contact the manufacturer directly.
CHICAGO, IL- United Airlines has issued a statement following the discovery of a body in the wheel well of a flight that departed from Chicago's O'Hare International Airport on Christmas Eve.
Flight 202, a Boeing 787-10, left Chicago at 9:31 a.m. CT on Tuesday and arrived at Kahului Airport in Maui, Hawaii, at 2:12 p.m. local time, according to FlightAware.com. The body was found upon the aircraft's ar-rival in Maui. "Upon arrival at Kahului Airport in Maui on Tuesday, a body was found in the wheel well of one of the main landing gears on a United aircraft," the airline said in a statement. "United is working with law enforce-ment authorities on the investigation."
United Airlines noted that the area where the body was discovered is only accessible from outside the air-craft. Hawaii News reported that the body belonged to an unidentified man. The circumstances of how or when the individual accessed the wheel well remain under investigation.
Trump, Musk Support H-1B Amid MAGA Debate
WASHINGTON, DC- President-elect Donald Trump expressed support for H-1B visas, aligning with tech leaders like Elon Musk in a heated intra-MAGA debate. “I’ve always liked the visas; that’s why we have them,” Trump said, emphasizing the program’s role in hiring foreign workers for specialized roles. Trump, who previously restricted such visas during his presidency, acknowledged using them extensively on his properties, calling the program “great.” Musk and other tech leaders argue H-1B visas are vital for sourcing talent unavailable in the U.S., urging expansion. MAGA hardliners, however, demand stricter immigration policies, accusing the program of displacing American workers. Musk’s advocacy turned fiery after online criticism. Responding to an X user who mocked his stance, Musk passionately defended H-1B visas, crediting them for America’s technological leadership and his companies’ success. “Take a big step back and F*** YOURSELF,” Musk retorted, vowing to “go to war” over the issue.
