Times of India

RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav signals a possible reunion with Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, hinting at political changes in the state. Despite Lalu's invitation, Nitish remains non-committal. JD(U) allies with BJP in NDA, which faces challenges after the Lok Sabha polls, making Nitish Kumar a pivotal figure. Tejashwi Yadav predicts the end of Nitish's tenure, urging government renewal.

Indian cricket saw iconic players retire and young talent rise in 2024. Veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli stepped away from various formats. The team faced rebuilding while maintaining its winning momentum. Ten players debuted across formats, showcasing a promising future. Their performances symbolised a promising path forward for Indian cricket.

Rishabh Pant has struggled in the current Australia tour, with just 154 runs in seven innings, and has faced criticism for poor shot selection. Sydney offers a final chance for redemption. Pant has a strong track record at Sydney Cricket Ground, where he previously scored 292 runs in three innings. India needs a win to level the series and retain the Border Gavaskar Trophy.

Congress leader V D Satheesan criticizes Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan's statement on Sanatana Dharma, arguing it’s part of cultural heritage and not exclusive to the Sangh Parivar. Vijayan had linked Sanatana Dharma to casteism, which Satheesan and KPCC chief K Sudhakaran counter by defending its broader, non-communal essence.

A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu on 17 December 2024, causing significant damage and loss of life. India expressed condolences and extended a relief assistance of USD 500,000 to support recovery efforts, emphasizing the strong relationship under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). India's commitment to humanitarian aid and disaster response is reaffirmed in this gesture.

India aims to end a 46-year wait for a Test match victory at the Sydney Cricket Ground, needing a win in the final match of the series to retain the Border Gavaskar Trophy. Ravindra Jadeja will spearhead the spin attack, in place of retired Ravichandran Ashwin, with off-spinner Washington Sundar to most probably also be part of the playing eleven.

Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu has emphasized the need for substantial evidence before taking action on the US bribery allegations involving the Adani Group and the previous Y S Jaganmohan Reddy government.

John Capodice, known for his roles in 'General Hospital' and 'Ace Ventura: Pet Detective', has died at 83. He portrayed Carmine Cerullo in 'General Hospital' and appeared in films like 'Wall Street' and 'Independence Day'. He also featured in commercials, including one for Polly-O String Cheese.

The Supreme Court criticizes officials and farmer leaders for making statements complicating the farmers' protest situation. The court demands compliance from Punjab in providing medical aid to Jagjit Singh Dallewal, without breaking his fast. The court denies involving the Centre in MSP negotiations, focusing on Dallewal's health and the state's responsibilities.

Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi criticized Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for being among the richest chief ministers in India while Assam ranks low on the Human Development Index. Gogoi highlighted the wealth disparity as Sarma's assets are valued at Rs 17 crore. The report by the Association for Democratic Reforms shows significant contrasts between leaders' wealth and state development.

A 40-year-old businessman, Puneet Khurana, died by suicide in Delhi, alleging mental torture by his wife and in-laws. He documented the harassment in a 59-minute video. The couple, married in 2016, had ongoing divorce and property disputes. Police are investigating, examining Khurana's phone and considering the allegations against his wife's family.

Jasprit Bumrah has achieved a significant milestone in 2024 by breaking Waqar Younis's record for the best strike rate and average by a fast bowler in international cricket across formats in a calendar year. With 86 wickets in 21 matches, Bumrah's impressive performance places him as the leading wicket-taker, which he continues to carry Indian bowling on his shoulder as a modern-day great.

Gold price in 2025: Experts recommend maintaining gold in investment portfolios for 2025 due to its diversification benefits and potential for continued gains. Gold prices hit record highs in 2024 due to global political tensions, US interest rate changes, and central bank activities.

The Supreme Court will hear Asaduddin Owaisi's plea on February 17, which calls for the enforcement of the 1991 Places of Worship Act. This act maintains religious site status as of August 15, 1947. Owaisi's petition followed a Supreme Court directive pausing any new or ongoing litigation aimed at reclaiming religious places until a final decision.

The political conflict between BJP and AAP intensifies with both parties accusing each other of voter fraud ahead of the Delhi Assembly polls. BJP alleges AAP leader Kejriwal of electoral manipulation, while AAP counters by accusing BJP of undermining democracy and tampering with voter lists.

Female students at CMR Engineering College, Medchal, protested after alleging that hostel cooking staff secretly recorded them in bathrooms. Joined by student unions, they demanded justice and raised slogans like “We want justice.” Police assured swift action, promising to register a case and conduct a thorough investigation into the privacy breach.

A Bangladesh court denied bail to Iskcon priest Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, who is accused of disrespecting the national flag. Das advocates for minority rights and was arrested after a sedition case was filed against him. His arrest prompted significant outrage and calls for his release, with his legal team anticipating further legal battles.

Two asteroids, 2024 YF7 and 2024 YR9, are set to pass near Earth in early January. NASA confirms no immediate threat but emphasizes the importance of tracking such objects for solar system insights and planetary defense. These events help scientists understand early solar system conditions and prepare for potential future risks.

Ten people, mostly teenagers, were injured in Queens, New York, as men fired over 30 shots into a crowd outside Amazura nightclub. Police are searching for a light-colored sedan linked to the attack. The victims, aged 16 to 20, are expected to recover. No suspects have been identified.

Generation Beta, born from 2025 to 2039, is expected to be highly influenced by unpredictable technological advancements and climate crises. This generation will have significant impacts from AI technology, social media, and tighter tech regulations. With a focus on sustainability and resilience, Gen Beta will witness demographic shifts, emphasizing population sustainability rather than overpopulation.