Times of India

The Israel Defense Forces launched a military operation around Gaza's Kamal Adwan Hospital based on intelligence about terrorist activities. The operation aims to target threats while ensuring patient care and supplies continue. The hospital is alleged to be a Hamas stronghold, violating international law.

From Jan 1, 2025, women prisoners in Madhya Pradesh will receive hair removal cream and shampoo regularly to maintain hygiene. All prisoners will also get a salad with meals, and improved food portions. New prison laws will focus on tech upgrades and addressing overcrowding in jails.

*Pushpa 2: The Rule*, featuring Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna, saw its lowest single-day collection on the fourth Friday, earning Rs 8.75 crore across all languages. Despite the dip, the film has crossed Rs 1,128 crore globally. With Rs 731.15 crore from its Hindi version alone, it continues to lead in box office collections, setting a new Hindi film benchmark.

MMS, renowned for his integrity in Indian politics, remained honorable despite a coal scam accusation during his tenure as Prime Minister. Admirable for his simplicity, candor, and dedication, he kept his family away from public life. Known for valuing education, his legacy is profoundly respected, and his character is cherished.

Manmohan Singh's career is highlighted by his vision, courage, and humility. His reforms in the 1990s and tenure as PM reflect his blend of ideas and execution. Notably, he prioritized national benefit over personal gain, demonstrated during the rupee devaluation. Singh's leadership, combining ethical integrity and economic efficiency, made a significant impact on India's growth.

Dr Manmohan Singh's passing is a personal and significant loss for many. He played a crucial role in shaping India's economy through the 1991 reforms, which set the country on a new developmental path. His legacies include dedication to economic reform, building consensus in a diverse nation, and his simplicity, honesty, and decency.

A 44-year-old nursing staff member from a New Delhi hospital was arrested for harassing a 22-year-old US woman at a wedding in Jaipur's Chomu Palace Hotel. The accuser, identified as Ashish Mohan Das, fled after the incident on December 21. He was apprehended through CCTV and digital evidence, and is currently being interrogated by police.

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim honored Dr Manmohan Singh on 'X', highlighting Singh's contributions to India's economic rise and his unwavering integrity. Recalling Singh's support during Anwar's incarceration, including offering scholarships for Anwar's children, Anwar celebrated Singh's humanity and kindness. This heartfelt tribute reflected their shared commitment to fighting corruption and Singh's inspiring legacy.

Former PM Manmohan Singh will be cremated with full state honours at Nigambodh Ghat. Congress requested a more befitting memorial site. Union government revealed plans to allocate space for a memorial later, causing Congress to claim disrespect. State funeral arrangements and a half-day central government holiday have been declared.

A declassified document found at Osama bin Laden's Abbottabad hideout calls the 2008 Mumbai attacks a "heroic Fidai operation". Al-Qaida and Lashkar-e-Taiba figures orchestrated the incident, with Hafiz Abdul Rehman Makki playing a crucial role. Makki maintained alliances with high-profile terrorists, contributing to significant attacks. His recent death closes a dark chapter in global terrorism.

The rupee fell to a record low of 85.53 against the dollar, driven by panic dollar buying and increased demand from the month-end, leading RBI to intervene by selling dollars. Despite RBI's intervention, higher US Treasury yields, crude oil prices, and foreign fund outflows kept the rupee under pressure.

In 2025, HR will be shaped by hybrid work models, mental health focus, DEI advancements, and AI integration. Demand for specialized talent and rising CXO salaries will be notable trends, with green energy and AI-driven sectors leading in compensation. Skill development remains crucial for workforce competitiveness.

Osamu Suzuki, a key figure behind Maruti 800, was instrumental in introducing the small car to India in 1983. His vision and risk-taking attitude significantly shaped the Indian automobile industry, making it a robust economic sector. His efforts modernized industrial practices and created a strong supplier ecosystem in India.

Urban FMCG demand is not expected to fully recover until mid-2025, despite companies focusing on premium products. Inflation is constraining urban spending, while rural areas show recovery. High commodity prices impact discretionary spending. E-commerce is growing for brands like Nestle. Industry executives call for policy measures to stimulate mass consumption and manage inflation.

A joint team of police and administrative officials in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district attached properties of three Pakistan-based terrorists under CrPC in connection with an FIR. The action involved properties worth approximately Rs 18.5 lakhs, following the orders from the Court of Judicial Magistrate 1st Class, Kotranka.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned BRS working president KT Rama Rao and other officials concerning financial irregularities in the Formula E race case. The probe under PMLA investigates unauthorized fund transfers, with potential FEMA violations also being examined. Summons have been issued for January 2024.