Times of India

Manipur CM N Biren Singh emphasized the BJP's commitment to unity and peace in the state amidst ethnic violence. He highlighted government efforts to aid internally displaced people and urged calm between communities. Singh asserted that only BJP's dedication to nationalism and social justice could save Manipur, referencing various inclusive projects like the Unity Mall.

Pope Francis, in his Christmas "Urbi et Orbi" message, urged the end of conflicts worldwide, including those in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan. Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, he called for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Speaking to thousands in St. Peter's Square, the pontiff emphasised the need for dialogue and peace negotiations.

MS Dhoni celebrated Christmas with his family, dressed as Santa Claus. Photos shared by his wife Sakshi captured the festive setting with a decorated tree and gifts. Dhoni remains a cricket legend, being the only captain to win all three ICC trophies and leading Chennai Super Kings to multiple IPL championships. He retired from international cricket in 2020.

A man attempted suicide near the Parliament building in New Delhi by setting himself on fire. He has been hospitalized at RML Hospital. Delhi police identified the man as Jitendra from Uttar Pradesh. The incident is suspected to be related to personal enmity. An investigation is ongoing.

Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin decodes Travis Head's technique against Jasprit Bumrah, highlighting his clever use of the crease and stance adjustments. Head's adaptability and fearless stroke play have been pivotal in Australia's performances, especially during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite his success, Head's vulnerability against round-the-wicket bowling is noted.

Salman Rushdie's banned book "The Satanic Verses" is now available in limited stock at a Delhi bookstore. The ban, imposed in 1988, ended as the Delhi High Court noted the absence of the notification. Rushdie's controversial novel remains highly debated globally, and its release has reignited discussions on free speech and artistic expression.

At least four individuals lost their lives and several others were injured when a roadways bus with around 25 passengers fell into a gorge near Bhimtal in Nainital district, Uttarakhand. The bus was en route to Haldwani when the driver lost control, prompting a rescue operation. Injured persons are being treated at nearby hospitals.

Arjun Tendulkar reached a significant milestone by completing 50 wickets in his white-ball career during the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Representing Goa, the left-arm pacer has taken 51 wickets in 41 white-ball matches after debuting in T20s for Mumbai in 2021.

The Congress party's camaraderie with AAP during the Delhi Lok Sabha polls has turned to rivalry, with Congress leader Ajay Maken criticizing the alliance as a mistake. Maken condemned Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, describing him as 'Farziwal' for failing to establish the Janlokpal anti-corruption ombudsman and for the plight of Delhi under AAP's rule.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized Congress-led governments for delaying development projects and neglecting water conservation, while emphasizing BJP's initiatives like the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana and river-linking projects. He highlighted the lasting impact of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision, particularly in rural development, and praised BJP's governance as trusted by the people.

Pancreatitis in children, often mistaken for minor digestive issues, can cause severe abdominal pain and requires timely treatment. Common symptoms include inflammation, fever, vomiting, and sharp pain. Prevention involves a healthy diet, maintaining weight, cautious medication use, prompt infection treatment, and hydration. Early diagnosis and medical attention are critical for managing and recovering from this condition.

Two assailants attacked and sexually assaulted a female college student while her boyfriend was also attacked at Anna University campus. The incident occurred early Wednesday after the couple returned from a midnight church mass. Police are investigating the case, reviewing CCTV footage, and suspect the attackers followed the couple from the church.

A Taliban spokesman reported that Pakistani air strikes in Afghanistan's Paktika province killed 46 people, mostly women and children. The Taliban condemned the attack as 'barbaric' and vowed defense. This strike follows recent tensions and accusations between the Taliban and Pakistan regarding militant activities.

A passenger plane en route from Baku to Grozny crashed near Kazakhstan’s Aktau airport after requesting an emergency landing. The aircraft belonging to Azerbaijan Airlines was diverted due to heavy fog and circled the airport multiple times before the crash. Initial reports indicate survivors, with emergency personnel responding to the scene.

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy will lead the newly established Department of Government Efficiency under President-elect Trump, aiming to cut federal spending and eliminate waste. Their effort is compared to Mao Zedong’s Cultural Revolution, emphasizing the need to avoid ideological purges, factionalism, and short-term chaos that led to long-term damage in China.

Shiv Sena has pledged support for former cricketer Vinod Kambli, who is receiving treatment in Thane. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's OSD, Mangesh Chivate, assured Kambli of a Rs 5 lakh aid from the Shrikant Shinde Foundation. MP Shrikant and Deputy CM Shinde will visit Kambli soon to offer further assistance.

Boosting India's blue-water combat, the Navy will commission two indigenous warships and a submarine in the coming month, bolstering capabilities to counter China's influence. This includes the AI-enabled destroyer Surat, stealth frigate Nilgiri, and submarine Vagsheer, all equipped with advanced sensors and weaponry for enhanced operational readiness.

Australia's strategy of selecting fast tracks early in the Border Gavaskar Trophy to disrupt India hasn't entirely worked. Jasprit Bumrah has excelled, keeping India competitive. However, Australia's pace attack has not let Indian batters settle, and they are now eager for the more batting-friendly conditions in Melbourne and Sydney to regain form and support Bumrah's efforts.

A 72-hour strike in Katra initiated by pony wallas, shopkeepers, and business owners begins on Wednesday to protest a proposed ropeway project. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti organized the bandh to oppose the Rs 250-crore ropeway which aims to assist senior citizens and others in accessing the temple.