Times of India

Former Indian coach Ravi Shastri believes India's gritty final day stand in the Brisbane Test, particularly the last-wicket resistance, has instilled crucial psychological momentum heading into the Boxing Day Test. He compared it to similar rearguard actions, like Bumrah and Shami's partnership at Lord's and the Ashwin-Vihari stand in Sydney, highlighting how such resilience elevates the team's morale.

The government has increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for copra for the 2025 season. Milling copra's MSP is set at Rs 11,582 per quintal, while ball copra's is Rs 12,100. This represents a substantial increase of over 120% since 2014. The hike aims to benefit coconut growers, boost copra production, and meet growing market demands.

India has accused Canada of supporting anti-India separatist agendas through unsubstantiated criminal allegations against Indian citizens. The Indian government has requested Canada to act against anti-India elements operating within its borders, while also investigating US-shared intelligence regarding organized crime and terrorism linked to Indian nationals. India assures its citizens abroad that their safety is a top priority.

A 39-member Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), chaired by BJP MP PP Chaudhary, has been formed to review the bills enabling 'One Nation, One Election.' The committee, comprising members from various parties, including prominent BJP and opposition leaders, will analyze the feasibility of simultaneous elections and submit its report by the next parliamentary session's last week.

Delhi Police Crime Branch will now investigate the Parliament scuffle after complaints from both BJP and Congress. BJP accused Rahul Gandhi of assault and filed an FIR, citing injuries to two MPs. Congress countered, alleging BJP MPs pushed Mallikarjun Kharge and manhandled Gandhi. The incident stemmed from a clash over alleged insults to Dr BR Ambedkar.

BJP leader Navya Haridas has filed a petition in the Kerala High Court challenging Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's Wayanad Lok Sabha seat victory. Haridas alleges that Vadra provided false information about her family's assets in her nomination papers, influencing voters and violating the Model Code of Conduct. A hearing is expected in January 2025. Vadra won the seat on November 13th.

President-elect Trump pressed the EU to reduce its trade deficit with the US by buying more American oil and gas, threatening tariffs otherwise. The EU responded with a willingness to discuss strengthening trade relations, particularly in energy, while acknowledging the existing trade imbalance.

Virat Kohli's new haircut has created buzz ahead of the Boxing Day Test, as India seeks to level the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at 2-1. Following a mixed series performance, Kohli's resurgence is crucial for India's middle order. With the WTC final spot hanging in the balance, India must address top-order inconsistencies and reduce reliance on Bumrah.

Tech leaders, once opposed to Donald Trump, are now flocking to Mar-a-Lago for private dinners. Zuckerberg, Brin, Bezos, and Musk have all met with the president-elect, seeking influence and aiming to protect their companies from potential political backlash. This marks a significant shift from the 2016 election, when many kept their distance.

A housekeeping employee at a Delhi government hospital was arrested for secretly filming inside the women's washroom. A woman discovered a hidden phone recording, leading to the arrest. The accused confessed to filming for a month. This incident follows a similar case in Bengaluru where a coffee shop employee hid a phone in the restroom dustbin, raising privacy concerns.

India's World Test Championship (WTC) Final hopes hang in the balance as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy reaches its climax. Level at 1-1, any series loss eliminates India from contention. Sri Lanka could even leapfrog them with a 2-0 victory against Australia. India must secure at least a draw to keep their WTC Final dream alive.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticised Prime Minister Modi's handling of the ongoing farmers' protests, citing the farmer leader's hunger strike and unfulfilled promises regarding Minimum Support Price (MSP). Kharge urged the government to engage in dialogue and address the farmers' concerns, emphasizing their importance to the nation.

Bollywood buzzed with star-studded events! Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan united for Aaradhya's school performance, dispelling divorce rumors. Virat Kohli defended his children's privacy from paparazzi. Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor's reunion at their kids' school sparked Jab We Met nostalgia. Sonu Sood reminisced about Aishwarya comparing him to Amitabh Bachchan. Govind Namdev clarified dating rumors.

Indian equity markets suffered a five-day losing streak, shedding ₹18.43 lakh crore in market value. The Sensex plummeted nearly 5%, driven by foreign fund outflows and global uncertainties. The US Federal Reserve's hawkish stance further dampened investor sentiment, impacting various sectors like IT, financials, and realty.

Elon Musk endorsed Germany's far-right AfD party, calling them the country's savior ahead of the February 23rd election. The AfD, currently second in polls, has been labeled a suspected extremist group. Mainstream parties refuse to collaborate with them. Musk's endorsement followed criticism of the leading conservative candidate by a right-wing influencer. AfD leaders celebrated Musk's support.

A family in Andhra Pradesh received a parcel containing a decomposing body and an extortion letter demanding Rs 1.36 crore. The letter linked the demand to a loan allegedly taken by the recipient's missing husband. Suspicion has fallen on the recipient's brother-in-law, who has disappeared. Police are investigating the complex case, suspecting internal family disputes are connected to the crime.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar shared a video showcasing the impressive bowling action of Sushila Meena, a young talent from rural Rajasthan. Tendulkar likened her smooth left-arm pace to that of Zaheer Khan, sparking widespread praise and highlighting the untapped potential in India's grassroots cricket. This recognition could open doors to a brighter future for young talents like Sushila.

Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad jokingly blamed Royal Challengers Bangalore for a microphone malfunction during an event in Bengaluru. Gaikwad, retained by CSK for Rs 18 crore, will be next seen leading Maharashtra in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy.