
Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna Recuses Himself from IOA and AIFF Constitution Cases
On Monday, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna recused himself from hearing two significant pleas regarding the finalisation of the constitutions for the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF). These constitutions were drafted by former Supreme Court judge Justice L. Nageswara Rao. CJI Khanna informed the bench, which included Justice Sanjay Kumar, that he would not participate in the proceedings because of his prior involvement with the case in t
Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna Recuses Himself from IOA and AIFF Constitution Cases
On Monday, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna recused himself from hearing two significant pleas regarding the finalisation of the constitutions for the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF). These constitutions were drafted by former Supreme Court judge Justice L. Nageswara Rao. CJI Khanna informed the bench, which included Justice Sanjay Kumar, that he would not participate in the proceedings because of his prior involvement with the case in t

Is This the End of Rohit Sharma’s Test Career? Sunil Gavaskar Weighs In
Rohit Sharma’s future in Test cricket has come under scrutiny after the Indian opener was left out of the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney. Officially, Rohit "opted to rest" from the game, but this decision has raised questions about his long-term role in the format. Sunil Gavaskar, one of India's cricketing legends, speculated that this might signal the end of Rohit's Test career, suggesting that the selection committee may look to younger players who can lead t
Is This the End of Rohit Sharma’s Test Career? Sunil Gavaskar Weighs In
Rohit Sharma’s future in Test cricket has come under scrutiny after the Indian opener was left out of the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney. Officially, Rohit "opted to rest" from the game, but this decision has raised questions about his long-term role in the format. Sunil Gavaskar, one of India's cricketing legends, speculated that this might signal the end of Rohit's Test career, suggesting that the selection committee may look to younger players who can lead t

Indian Travelers Boost US Tourism Recovery
As the US tourism industry struggles to return to pre-pandemic levels, the hospitality sector has found hope in the rising number of Indian visitors. In 2024, nearly 1.9 million Indians traveled to the US, marking a 48% increase from 2019, driven by a rise in business and leisure visas. This influx is supporting the recovery of US tourism, with hotels and travel companies adjusting their offerings to cater to Indian tastes, such as providing chai and samosas in hotel lobbies and airing popula
Indian Travelers Boost US Tourism Recovery
As the US tourism industry struggles to return to pre-pandemic levels, the hospitality sector has found hope in the rising number of Indian visitors. In 2024, nearly 1.9 million Indians traveled to the US, marking a 48% increase from 2019, driven by a rise in business and leisure visas. This influx is supporting the recovery of US tourism, with hotels and travel companies adjusting their offerings to cater to Indian tastes, such as providing chai and samosas in hotel lobbies and airing popula

India Launches Probe into Chinese Nylon and TDQ Imports
India has initiated anti-dumping investigations into two Chinese products—nylon filament yarn and trimethyl dihydroquinoline (TDQ). The investigations were triggered by petitions from domestic companies, such as Century Enka Ltd., Gujarat Polyfilms Ltd., and Oriilon India Ltd., for nylon filament yarn, and NOCIL Ltd. for TDQ. The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) is looking into whether these cheap imports from China and Vietnam have caused material harm to local industries.
India Launches Probe into Chinese Nylon and TDQ Imports
India has initiated anti-dumping investigations into two Chinese products—nylon filament yarn and trimethyl dihydroquinoline (TDQ). The investigations were triggered by petitions from domestic companies, such as Century Enka Ltd., Gujarat Polyfilms Ltd., and Oriilon India Ltd., for nylon filament yarn, and NOCIL Ltd. for TDQ. The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) is looking into whether these cheap imports from China and Vietnam have caused material harm to local industries.

Azerbaijan Airlines Crash in Kazakhstan: Missile Speculation and External Interference
On Christmas, an Embraer 190 aircraft operated by Azerbaijan Airlines crashed near Aktau city in Kazakhstan, leading to the deaths of 38 people out of the 67 on board. The flight had originally departed from Baku, Azerbaijan, headed for Grozny, Russia, but was diverted when it was unable to land in Grozny due to dense fog. The aircraft, rerouted over the Caspian Sea, crashed in an open field near Aktau after encountering difficulties. 29 passengers survived the crash. Azerbaijan Airlines, in
Azerbaijan Airlines Crash in Kazakhstan: Missile Speculation and External Interference
On Christmas, an Embraer 190 aircraft operated by Azerbaijan Airlines crashed near Aktau city in Kazakhstan, leading to the deaths of 38 people out of the 67 on board. The flight had originally departed from Baku, Azerbaijan, headed for Grozny, Russia, but was diverted when it was unable to land in Grozny due to dense fog. The aircraft, rerouted over the Caspian Sea, crashed in an open field near Aktau after encountering difficulties. 29 passengers survived the crash. Azerbaijan Airlines, in

India's Pharma Industry Set for Major Growth and Innovation in 2025
In 2025, the Indian pharmaceutical industry is set for a profound transformation driven by innovation, research excellence, and expanded global access. With the industry projected to reach USD 130 billion by 2030, India aims to become a global hub for high-quality, affordable pharmaceuticals, focusing on areas like CAR-T cell therapy, mRNA vaccines, and biosimilars. Technological advancements like AI, machine learning, and precision medicine are expected to revolutionize drug discovery, manuf
India's Pharma Industry Set for Major Growth and Innovation in 2025
In 2025, the Indian pharmaceutical industry is set for a profound transformation driven by innovation, research excellence, and expanded global access. With the industry projected to reach USD 130 billion by 2030, India aims to become a global hub for high-quality, affordable pharmaceuticals, focusing on areas like CAR-T cell therapy, mRNA vaccines, and biosimilars. Technological advancements like AI, machine learning, and precision medicine are expected to revolutionize drug discovery, manuf

Manu Bhaker's Khel Ratna Nomination Missing: Shooter Responds Amid Criticism
Manu Bhaker, the double Olympic medallist shooter, recently made headlines after reports revealed her name was missing from the list of athletes nominated for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Bhaker, the first Indian athlete to win two Olympic medals in a single edition of the Games, expressed surprise over the omission, but clarified that it could be due to a lapse on her part while filing the nomination. She emphasized that awards motivate her but are not her ultimate goa
Manu Bhaker's Khel Ratna Nomination Missing: Shooter Responds Amid Criticism
Manu Bhaker, the double Olympic medallist shooter, recently made headlines after reports revealed her name was missing from the list of athletes nominated for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Bhaker, the first Indian athlete to win two Olympic medals in a single edition of the Games, expressed surprise over the omission, but clarified that it could be due to a lapse on her part while filing the nomination. She emphasized that awards motivate her but are not her ultimate goa

Indian Rupee Hits Record Low of 85.12 Against US Dollar
The Indian rupee weakened by 10 paise to a record low of 85.12 against the US dollar on Monday, marking a significant decline in its value. The domestic currency opened at 84.85, according to Bloomberg data, and had closed at 85.02 on Friday. This continued depreciation comes amid rising global pressures, including an increase in Brent crude prices, which rose 0.41% to $73.24 per barrel. The rise in crude prices was partly driven by easing concerns about a potential US government shutdown and
Indian Rupee Hits Record Low of 85.12 Against US Dollar
The Indian rupee weakened by 10 paise to a record low of 85.12 against the US dollar on Monday, marking a significant decline in its value. The domestic currency opened at 84.85, according to Bloomberg data, and had closed at 85.02 on Friday. This continued depreciation comes amid rising global pressures, including an increase in Brent crude prices, which rose 0.41% to $73.24 per barrel. The rise in crude prices was partly driven by easing concerns about a potential US government shutdown and

Harmanpreet and Praveen Nominated for Khel Ratna, Manu Bhaker Missing
The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for Indian sports, with several athletes bringing laurels to the country, including India's T20 World Cup win and Manu Bhaker's double medal victory at the Paris Olympics. The Indian government has revealed the nominees for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India's highest sporting honor. Among the nominees are Harmanpreet Singh, captain of the Indian men's hockey team, who led the team to a bronze medal at th
Harmanpreet and Praveen Nominated for Khel Ratna, Manu Bhaker Missing
The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for Indian sports, with several athletes bringing laurels to the country, including India's T20 World Cup win and Manu Bhaker's double medal victory at the Paris Olympics. The Indian government has revealed the nominees for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India's highest sporting honor. Among the nominees are Harmanpreet Singh, captain of the Indian men's hockey team, who led the team to a bronze medal at th

Rajan Blames UPA Corruption for Bank NPAs, Praises Modi Cleanup
Raghuram Rajan, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has linked corruption under the UPA government as the primary cause of non-performing assets (NPAs) in Indian banks. In a recent interview, Rajan explained that following the global financial crisis, several projects began facing severe delays due to corruption scandals, land acquisition issues, and other regulatory obstacles. These factors, he argued, significantly contributed to the rise of NPAs. Rajan praised the
Rajan Blames UPA Corruption for Bank NPAs, Praises Modi Cleanup
Raghuram Rajan, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has linked corruption under the UPA government as the primary cause of non-performing assets (NPAs) in Indian banks. In a recent interview, Rajan explained that following the global financial crisis, several projects began facing severe delays due to corruption scandals, land acquisition issues, and other regulatory obstacles. These factors, he argued, significantly contributed to the rise of NPAs. Rajan praised the

New Study Abroad Destinations Gain Popularity Among Indian Students
Indian students are increasingly looking beyond traditional study destinations like the US and UK to explore new opportunities in countries such as Malta, Singapore, Dubai, Italy, and various European nations. These countries have simplified their visa regulations, and their competitive living and tuition fees, along with diverse academic programmes, are attracting a growing number of students. The ease of access and affordable education options are key factors driving this trend. Many expert
New Study Abroad Destinations Gain Popularity Among Indian Students
Indian students are increasingly looking beyond traditional study destinations like the US and UK to explore new opportunities in countries such as Malta, Singapore, Dubai, Italy, and various European nations. These countries have simplified their visa regulations, and their competitive living and tuition fees, along with diverse academic programmes, are attracting a growing number of students. The ease of access and affordable education options are key factors driving this trend. Many expert

Army and Police Seize Drugs and Arms Near LoC in Jammu and Kashmir
A significant drug and arms seizure took place in Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir, as a result of a joint operation conducted by the Indian Army and local police. The operation, based on specific intelligence inputs, was carried out in the Chinotra area of the Tangdhar sector near the Line of Control (LoC). The search led to the recovery of approximately four kilograms of narcotics, including heroin-like substances, along with four pistols, six magazines, and other ‘war-like stores.
Army and Police Seize Drugs and Arms Near LoC in Jammu and Kashmir
A significant drug and arms seizure took place in Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir, as a result of a joint operation conducted by the Indian Army and local police. The operation, based on specific intelligence inputs, was carried out in the Chinotra area of the Tangdhar sector near the Line of Control (LoC). The search led to the recovery of approximately four kilograms of narcotics, including heroin-like substances, along with four pistols, six magazines, and other ‘war-like stores.

Pakistan Issues 84 Visas for Indian Pilgrims to Visit Katas Raj Temples
The Pakistan High Commission announced on Wednesday that it has issued 84 visas to Indian pilgrims for a visit to the Shree Katas Raj temples in Chakwal district, Punjab, Pakistan. The pilgrimage, scheduled from December 19 to 25, will allow Hindu pilgrims to visit this sacred complex of temples, also known as Qila Katas. The temples are a significant religious site for Hindus and are linked by walkways. These visits are part of the long-standing Pakistan-India bilateral protocol on
Pakistan Issues 84 Visas for Indian Pilgrims to Visit Katas Raj Temples
The Pakistan High Commission announced on Wednesday that it has issued 84 visas to Indian pilgrims for a visit to the Shree Katas Raj temples in Chakwal district, Punjab, Pakistan. The pilgrimage, scheduled from December 19 to 25, will allow Hindu pilgrims to visit this sacred complex of temples, also known as Qila Katas. The temples are a significant religious site for Hindus and are linked by walkways. These visits are part of the long-standing Pakistan-India bilateral protocol on

Speedboat Collides with Ferry off Mumbai Coast, 1 Dead, 4 Critical, 5 Missing
A tragic incident occurred off the coast of Mumbai when a speedboat carrying four men zig-zagged in the sea and rammed into a ferry carrying 80 passengers. The collision, captured on video, led to one death, with four others in critical condition and five missing. The ferry, which had sailed from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, began to tilt and take on water, triggering a large-scale rescue operation. The video surfaced over two hours after the incident, showing the rescu
Speedboat Collides with Ferry off Mumbai Coast, 1 Dead, 4 Critical, 5 Missing
A tragic incident occurred off the coast of Mumbai when a speedboat carrying four men zig-zagged in the sea and rammed into a ferry carrying 80 passengers. The collision, captured on video, led to one death, with four others in critical condition and five missing. The ferry, which had sailed from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, began to tilt and take on water, triggering a large-scale rescue operation. The video surfaced over two hours after the incident, showing the rescu

R. Ashwin Announces Retirement from International Cricket
Indian cricket team spinner R. Ashwin has announced his retirement from international cricket after the third Test match against Australia in Brisbane on Wednesday. Ashwin, who played a pivotal role in India’s rise to the top of Test cricket, made the announcement during a joint press conference with captain Rohit Sharma, after the game ended in a draw. Ashwin, with 537 wickets in 106 Test matches, is the second-highest wicket-taker for India, following only Anil Kumble's record of
R. Ashwin Announces Retirement from International Cricket
Indian cricket team spinner R. Ashwin has announced his retirement from international cricket after the third Test match against Australia in Brisbane on Wednesday. Ashwin, who played a pivotal role in India’s rise to the top of Test cricket, made the announcement during a joint press conference with captain Rohit Sharma, after the game ended in a draw. Ashwin, with 537 wickets in 106 Test matches, is the second-highest wicket-taker for India, following only Anil Kumble's record of

Sitharaman Calls GDP Dip a Temporary Blip, Sees Strong Growth Ahead
Finance Minister’s View on GDP Growth: In a recent statement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the lower-than-expected growth in India’s GDP for the September quarter, calling it a "temporary blip." She emphasized her confidence that India’s economy will regain strong growth in the upcoming quarters. Despite the slowdown in the second quarter, she highligh
Sitharaman Calls GDP Dip a Temporary Blip, Sees Strong Growth Ahead
Finance Minister’s View on GDP Growth: In a recent statement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the lower-than-expected growth in India’s GDP for the September quarter, calling it a "temporary blip." She emphasized her confidence that India’s economy will regain strong growth in the upcoming quarters. Despite the slowdown in the second quarter, she highligh

India and Russia Plan Visa-Free Travel for Indian Tourists by 2025
Indian tourists may soon enjoy visa-free travel to Russia, with the new arrangement expected by spring 2025. Since August 2023, Indian travelers have already been eligible for e-visas, which are processed within four days. The upcoming visa-free travel agreement will further strengthen tourism ties between India and Russia. In 2023, Russia granted 9,500 e-visas to Indian visitors, placing India among the top five countries for easy travel access to Russia. Consultations between Mosc
India and Russia Plan Visa-Free Travel for Indian Tourists by 2025
Indian tourists may soon enjoy visa-free travel to Russia, with the new arrangement expected by spring 2025. Since August 2023, Indian travelers have already been eligible for e-visas, which are processed within four days. The upcoming visa-free travel agreement will further strengthen tourism ties between India and Russia. In 2023, Russia granted 9,500 e-visas to Indian visitors, placing India among the top five countries for easy travel access to Russia. Consultations between Mosc

PM Modi Pays Tribute to Soldiers on Vijay Diwas, Honoring 1971 Victory
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday honored the soldiers who played a pivotal role in India's victory during the 1971 war, known as Vijay Diwas. The day commemorates the surrender of Pakistani forces to the Indian Army, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. In a post shared on X, PM Modi paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers who contributed to this historic victory. Modi emphasized the selfless dedication and determination of the Indian soldiers, notin
PM Modi Pays Tribute to Soldiers on Vijay Diwas, Honoring 1971 Victory
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday honored the soldiers who played a pivotal role in India's victory during the 1971 war, known as Vijay Diwas. The day commemorates the surrender of Pakistani forces to the Indian Army, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. In a post shared on X, PM Modi paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers who contributed to this historic victory. Modi emphasized the selfless dedication and determination of the Indian soldiers, notin

Indian Rupee Weakens Amid RBI Leadership Change and Central Bank Decisions
The Indian rupee opened at 84.83 against the US dollar on Monday, a depreciation of 4 paise compared to the previous close of 84.79. The decline in the rupee is largely attributed to the uncertainty following the announcement of a leadership transition at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Shaktikanta Das will be succeeded by Sanjay Malhotra, sparking initial concerns in the market. However, markets quickly adjusted to the news, with experts noting that the RBI is closely monitoring banking sys
Indian Rupee Weakens Amid RBI Leadership Change and Central Bank Decisions
The Indian rupee opened at 84.83 against the US dollar on Monday, a depreciation of 4 paise compared to the previous close of 84.79. The decline in the rupee is largely attributed to the uncertainty following the announcement of a leadership transition at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Shaktikanta Das will be succeeded by Sanjay Malhotra, sparking initial concerns in the market. However, markets quickly adjusted to the news, with experts noting that the RBI is closely monitoring banking sys

Switzerland Suspends MFN Status for India, Raising Taxes on Indian Companies
Switzerland has decided to suspend the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) status granted to India, which could result in higher taxes for Indian companies operating in the country. Starting January 1, 2025, Indian companies will face increased withholding tax rates on income such as dividends and royalties generated in Switzerland. The new tax rules will impose a 10% tax on dividends earned by Indian entities. This move follows a ruling by the Indian Supreme Court in October 2023, which sta
Switzerland Suspends MFN Status for India, Raising Taxes on Indian Companies
Switzerland has decided to suspend the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) status granted to India, which could result in higher taxes for Indian companies operating in the country. Starting January 1, 2025, Indian companies will face increased withholding tax rates on income such as dividends and royalties generated in Switzerland. The new tax rules will impose a 10% tax on dividends earned by Indian entities. This move follows a ruling by the Indian Supreme Court in October 2023, which sta