National News

PM Narendra Modi celebrated the rise in rural consumption and the drop in poverty levels, highlighting the recent household consumption expenditure survey and SBI study. The rural poverty rate decreased significantly from 26% in 2011-12 to less than 5% in 2023-24. Modi emphasized the importance of empowering rural India for a developed nation.

Divers discovered the wreck of a probable European warship near Kalpeni island, Lakshadweep on Saturday. The ship, dating back to the 17th or 18th centuries, includes a cannon and anchor, suggesting historic maritime battles. Further underwater archaeological research is needed to uncover more details and confirm its origins, as the coral growth obscures precise identification.

Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav states the govt will address public concerns over the Bhopal gas tragedy waste incineration in Pithampur, awaiting further court orders. Protests, including attempted self-immolation, erupted in response to waste transport, demanding transparent actions to ensure safety.

Ahead of the Delhi assembly elections, BJP has announced its first list of 29 candidates, featuring notable figures like Parvesh Verma and Ramesh Bidhuri. The elections, set for February, will see key contests, particularly in the New Delhi and Kalkaji constituencies, involving prominent candidates from AAP, BJP, and Congress.

The Delhi assembly polls are shaping up to be a fierce battle as BJP, Congress, and AAP field heavyweight candidates. Notable contests include Arvind Kejriwal against Sandeep Dikshit and Parvesh Verma in New Delhi, Atishi in Kalkaji facing Congress and BJP rivals, and Manish Sisodia contending in Jangpura. The outcomes will significantly impact political dynamics.

Police in Beed arrested three suspects involved in the abduction-murder of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. Two suspects were caught in Pune, while another was arrested in Kalyan. The Maharashtra CID is investigating the case, which may be linked to attempts of extortion and assaults on a renewable energy firm. Further arrests are expected.

Delhi experienced its worst fog of the season starting from late Friday night, causing widespread disruptions. The zero visibility condition lasted up to 12 hours, impacting flights, trains, and road traffic. The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for continuing dense fog and predicts poor air quality in the coming days.

China has assured India that the construction of a mega dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo river in Tibet will not harm the lower riparian states. The project aims to develop clean energy and has been studied for decades to ensure environmental safety. US NSA Jake Sullivan will discuss the issue during his visit to India.

On New Year’s Eve, the USS Harry S. Truman conducted precision missile strikes targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen. The operation, part of a broader series of attacks, aimed to neutralize command centers and weapon facilities. This was a response to recent militant missile launches in Israel.

Private universities lead in fee-related complaints in India, with over 4,250 issues resolved and refunds of Rs 25.5 crore in the past five years, according to UGC's Fee Nivaran Cell. Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Rajasthan are the top states with the highest number of complaints.

William Dalrymple criticizes the demolition of Agra's historic Mubarak Manzil, attributing such actions to India's struggles in attracting international tourists despite its rich cultural heritage. Former politicians and local historians have also protested against the demolition, citing broader neglect of heritage sites.

The farm leader, who is on a ‘fast-unto-death’ protest, says he is ready to sacrifice his life for the cause of the farming community

Rajasthan police arrested RPSC member Katara for leaking 2021 SI exam papers to a commission colleague and govt accountant. The SIT report revealed the leak had reached coaching centres and recommended cancelling the results. The state's BJP govt and courts are yet to decide.

Hollywood star Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson received over $41 million in TKO stock after joining WWE and UFC's board of directors. Signing a new contract, he secured rights to 'The Rock' name. The grant includes 96,557 shares vesting initially in December 2024, with the remainder throughout 2025. His WrestleMania 41 appearance remains uncertain due to Hollywood commitments.

On the 40th day of his indefinite fast, farmer union representative Jagjit Singh Dallewal called for nationwide farmer mobilisation to ensure demands, including legal MSP rights. Dallewal urged villages to send tractor-trolleys to protest sites, insisting this fight is not his alone but concerns everyone.

Three tigers and a sub-adult leopard died from H5N1 avian flu at Gorewada Rescue Centre, prompting a red alert in Maharashtra's zoos. The death toll marked a significant instance of the virus impacting captive wildlife. Containment measures and screenings were implemented, and other animals in the center were declared healthy.

Congress is set to organize district-level "chaupals" demanding Home Minister Amit Shah's resignation over his remarks on B R Ambedkar. The month-long campaign, "Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan", will highlight BJP-RSS's alleged disrespect towards Ambedkar and the Constitution. The campaign will culminate on Jan 26 with a rally in Mhow, marking 75 years of the Constitution.