Times of India

A fire erupted at the Jungle Jamboree Restaurant in Delhi's Rajouri Garden market, prompting a swift response from 10 fire tenders. Over 20 people were present when the fire broke out, leading to dramatic escapes and one injury during the rescue. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and authorities have secured the area.

India and Bangladesh held high-level talks in Dhaka, addressing concerns over minority safety and attacks on properties. Foreign Secretary Misri reiterated India's commitment to the interim government and discussed strengthening bilateral ties across trade, connectivity, and cultural cooperation.

Air India, back with Tata Group, is expanding its fleet significantly. The airline has ordered an additional 100 Airbus aircraft, including 10 A350s and 90 A320 Family aircraft. This adds to their previous order of 470 aircraft, bringing the total to 570. This expansion aims to meet growing passenger demand and establish Air India as a world-class airline.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee urged calm amidst provocative remarks from Bangladeshi politicians claiming rights over Indian territories. She emphasized unity and condemned attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, cautioning against escalating tensions and advocating responsible discussion of the situation.

An Indian-American family, subjected to racist harassment on a United Airlines bus, plans to press charges against the identified perpetrator, Arlene Consuela. The family received support and the perpetrator's identity from her own family and friends after the video of the incident went viral.

20-year-old Thai folk singer Chayada Prao-hom died on December 8th from complications arising from neck massages at a parlour in Udon Thani. She experienced escalating paralysis after multiple sessions involving neck-twisting techniques. An investigation revealed that several masseuses at the parlour were unlicensed, raising concerns about improper practices. Authorities are investigating the parlour's compliance with regulations.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained the team's decision to ban fans from net sessions in Australia. He emphasized the private nature of practice discussions and the need to avoid public interference. The team's net sessions became a talking point after reports of insensitive comments from spectators.

Former Indian captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth criticised Mohammed Siraj's send-off to Travis Head during the second Test in Adelaide which was played under lights. Srikkanth believed Siraj's reaction was unwarranted, especially after Head's dominant 140-run innings. He emphasised performance over aggression, suggesting Siraj should have acknowledged Head's brilliant run-a-ball knock instead of confronting him.

Kapil Dev expressed concern over Vinod Kambli's struggles, urging him to prioritize his well-being. Kambli's recent appearance at a memorial event highlighted his difficulties, prompting support from the cricketing fraternity, including the 1983 World Cup-winning team and Sunil Gavaskar, who pledged to help him recover.

South Africa beat Sri Lanka in the second Test. They won by 109 runs. South Africa swept the series 2-0. They now lead the World Test Championship. Keshav Maharaj took five wickets in the final innings. South Africa's win keeps their hopes of reaching the WTC final alive. They will play Pakistan next at home.

HDFC Bank has raised its Marginal Cost of Funds-Based Lending Rate (MCLR) by up to 5 basis points for short-term loans. The overnight MCLR now stands at 9.20%, effective December 7, 2024.

Syrian rebels ousted President Bashar al-Assad, ending his family's rule. The rebel coalition, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, captured Aleppo and Damascus. Assad's military was weakened by corruption. Hezbollah fighters were absent due to conflict in Lebanon. Russia's support waned due to its focus on Ukraine. This event reshapes Middle Eastern power dynamics and raises concerns about Iran's nuclear ambitions.

A Chennai-Kochi flight with 90 people on board made an emergency landing back in Chennai due to a mechanical failure shortly after takeoff. The pilot's quick thinking ensured the safe return of all passengers and crew. The aircraft is currently undergoing repairs, and passengers are awaiting the rescheduled departure. An investigation into the mechanical issue is underway.

Following India's significant loss to Australia in the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test, cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar lauded Virat Kohli's dedication. Despite a recent slump in form, Kohli was spotted practicing in the nets right after the match. Gavaskar praised Kohli's commitment and urged his teammates to emulate his work ethic.

Noida International Airport conducted its first successful flight test on Monday, a crucial step towards its April 2025 opening. An IndiGo aircraft performed takeoff and landing maneuvers as part of the validation process. Data collected will be submitted to the DGCA for licensing approval.

India's Test captain Rohit Sharma faced criticism for his subdued leadership and poor batting performance following a heavy defeat against Australia in the second Test at Adelaide. Experts, including Ravi Shastri and Sunil Gavaskar, urged Rohit to return to his opening position to regain his aggressive approach.

Syrian rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, seized control of Bashar al-Assad's palace after he fled to Russia, ending his 13-year rule. The rebels discovered Assad's extravagant car collection, sparking online outrage. The collection included luxury brands like Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Rolls-Royce, highlighting the stark contrast between Assad's lavish lifestyle and the suffering of Syrian citizens.

Mohammed Shami, the Indian fast bowler, unleashed a blistering unbeaten 32 off just 17 balls, smashing three fours and two sixes in a Syed Mushtaq Ali pre-quarter-final against Chandigarh. His late-innings blitz propelled Bengal from a struggling 114/8 to a respectable 159/9. Shami's aggressive knock came at a strike rate of 188.24, making him the second-highest scorer for Bengal.

Adam Gilchrist believes India's supporting bowlers need to step up their game to match Jasprit Bumrah's level. He praised Bumrah's performance but pointed out Siraj and Rana's struggles in Adelaide. Gilchrist also advocated for Josh Hazlewood's return to the Australian XI for the Brisbane Test, highlighting Australia's bowling depth with Scott Boland as a reliable backup option.

Elon Musk criticized US funding of opposing sides in the Syrian conflict, highlighting a 2016 report of CIA-backed and Pentagon-backed militias clashing. Syrian rebels claimed control of Homs, celebrating Assad's reported departure to Russia after 24 years in power.