Times of India

Barcelona convincingly beat Real Madrid 5-2 in the Spanish Super Cup final in Saudi Arabia, marking their first title under Hansi Flick. Despite an early lead by Kylian Mbappe, Barcelona's goals from Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Alejandro Balde ensured their victory. Wojciech Szczesny received a red card, adding to the intensity.

Cricket Australia has revealed its 15-man squad for the ICC Champions Trophy, featuring Matt Short and Aaron Hardie. The squad highlights all-round capabilities, with notable players like Nathan Ellis included. Captain Pat Cummins faces uncertainty due to an injury, and Steve Smith may lead in his place. Australia aim to secure their first Champions Trophy since 2009.

In a thrilling finish at the Dubai International Stadium, Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s unbeaten 83 guided Sharjah Warriorz to a three-wicket victory over the Gulf Giants. Chasing 175, Kohler-Cadmore and Rohan Mustafa's 45 helped stabilise the innings after an early wobble. Tim Southee's 3/30 restricted the Giants to 174/7. The win highlighted Warriorz's resilience under pressure.

American billionaire and philanthropist Laurene Powell Jobs visited the ashram of her guru, Swami Kailashnand Giri, in Prayagraj to participate in the Maha Kumbh mela. Accompanied by her 40-member team, she will stay until January 15 before returning to the US.

V Narayanan will become the new chairman of Isro on January 14. Rising from humble beginnings, the son of a farmer, he has been pivotal in developing cryogenic engines vital for India's Chandrayaan missions. A rocket and spacecraft propulsion expert with an M.Tech and Ph.D., Narayanan aims to elevate Isro further.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized focusing on improving infrastructure, amenities, and transportation networks in naturally growing urban zones. He suggests prioritizing vertical development over creating new cities to better manage growth and decongestion. The housing ministry aims to develop a framework for transit-oriented development while collaborating with states.

Sanyukt Kisan Morcha postponed its unity meeting with two farmer groups to Jan 13 as Jagjit Singh Dallewal's health deteriorated during his fast unto death. An elderly protester died at the site. SKM requested PM Modi to engage in dialogue with farmer organizations.

Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin criticized Governor RN Ravi for walking out of the assembly due to the playing of the Tamil anthem instead of the national anthem. The governor claimed that Stalin disrespects the nation and constitution, while the assembly followed its tradition of starting with the Tamil anthem.

India is set to finalize four major defense deals worth over Rs 1.5 lakh crore, including contracts with France for 26 Rafale-Marine fighters and three Scorpene submarines. The deals also cover 156 Prachand light combat helicopters and 307 advanced towed artillery gun systems, significantly enhancing India's military capabilities.

Total annual groundwater recharge in India slightly declined in 2024 due to higher extraction, with significant contributions from northwest states like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi. Increase in 'critical' and 'over-exploited' units raises concerns about water scarcity, despite improvement in some areas.

Bangladesh's foreign ministry summoned Indian high commissioner Pranay Verma to address concerns over BSF's unauthorized construction of barbed wire fencing along the border, causing tensions. Bangladesh also raised issues of border killings and urged India to stop such incidents and ensure enquiries and actions against those responsible.

Karnataka High Court ruled that mediclaim reimbursements must be deducted from accident compensation under medical expenses. Justice Hanchate Sanjeevkumar directed Oriental Insurance to pay Rs 4.93 lakh to the family of S Hanumanthappa after deducting Rs 1.8 lakh received from mediclaim. Hanumanthappa was awarded Rs 6.7 lakh by a tribunal, but the insurer challenged the medical expenses.

Over 1 crore devotees congregated at the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati for the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, braving the cold for a holy dip. The spiritual event, including significant 'amrit snan' days, will run until February 26. Extensive preparations include 8 permanent ghats, 1.6 lakh tents, and 13,000 trains to facilitate pilgrims.

A seven-ring security plan has been implemented for the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, anticipating four crore devotees. Enhanced security measures include AI-driven surveillance, 2,751 CCTV cameras, anti-drone systems, and 40,000 personnel to ensure safety. A dedicated police team monitors the event, with 57 temporary stations and 20 hi-tech drones deployed.

Eight people died and several others were injured when a tempo collided with a truck near Dwarka Circle in Nashik, Maharashtra. The accident occurred around 7:30 PM, with the tempo carrying 16 passengers returning from a religious event. Immediate rescue operations were conducted, and the injured are being treated at hospitals. The death toll may rise due to critical injuries.

Indian professionals in the US are facing difficulties due to expected H1B visa reforms under the Trump administration. Many have experienced job offer withdrawals, visa delays, and potential layoffs. With new policies likely to prioritize American workers and increase visa thresholds, the uncertainty is affecting both job security and future employment prospects for Indian immigrants.

Malala Yousafzai condemned the Taliban for their oppressive treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan, describing it as 'gender apartheid.' Speaking at an education summit in Islamabad, she urged Muslim leaders to oppose the Taliban's policies, which she stated have no basis in Islamic teachings. She also criticized Israel for decimating Gaza's education system.

UK PM Keir Starmer is facing calls to sack Labour minister Tulip Siddiq amid allegations she benefited from properties gifted by allies of Bangladesh's former regime. Interim leader Muhammad Yunus has condemned these actions and wants an investigation. Siddiq, who denies wrongdoing, has referred herself to the independent adviser on ministerial standards.

The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, from January 13 to February 26, is set to be the world's largest gathering, with cultural and tourism ministries collaborating to enhance visitor experience. With expected attendance of 40 crore, preparations include enhanced connectivity, cultural showcases, and multilingual toll-free assistance for tourists.