Times of India

India has declared 2025 as the 'year of reforms' in the defence sector, focusing on modernizing the armed forces and establishing integrated theatre commands. Defence minister Rajnath Singh aims to boost defence exports to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029, promoting R&D and international partnerships.

Fiery pacer Jasprit Bumrah on Wednesday achieved the highest rating points ever by an Indian bowler, leading the ICC Men's Test Bowling Rankings with 907 points. Pat Cummins reached career-best third position as an all-rounder. Steve Smith and several other cricketers progressed in the batting and bowling rankings after recent performances.

A 21-year-old Noida youth, Dheeraj, was attacked by a woman named Priya after declining her marriage proposal. Dheeraj, currently treated at Yatharth Hospital, was drugged and assaulted in a car by Priya and her accomplices. Rabupura police have registered a case against Priya and her unidentified friends for attempted murder, with an ongoing investigation.

Diljit Dosanjh's New Year's Eve concert in Ludhiana faced legal challenges due to a complaint about songs promoting alcohol. Punjab officials urged a ban on specific tracks, citing their potential negative impact on youth. Despite controversies, Dosanjh's Dil-Luminati India Tour had significant audience success.

Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni expresses satisfaction with his decision to retire from international cricket and enjoys his post-cricket life filled with friends, motorcycle rides, and family time. Although his international career ended in 2019, he continues to impact the IPL, leading Chennai Super Kings. Dhoni remains content with his career accomplishments.

Elon Musk and his son X-Æ-12 celebrated New Year's Eve with Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Musk posted a photo with his son, expressing optimism for 2025. Videos and photos of the event went viral, showing the duo enjoying the festivities. Social media users responded enthusiastically.

Comedian Kunal Kamra questions Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa about the average wages paid to delivery partners in 2024. Kamra criticizes quick commerce platforms for exploiting gig workers, describing platform owners as landlords without land, who offer unaffordable freedom and inadequate wages.

Australia's Alex Carey dispelled rumors of conflict between Sam Konstas and Virat Kohli after their brief clash during the Boxing Day Test. Carey praised Konstas' impressive debut performance, noting his aggressive start and confident 60-run innings. While acknowledging the refreshing energy Konstas brought, Carey suggested it might not always be his playing style.

Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with heartfelt wishes, messages, and quotes for family, friends, partners, and colleagues. This article offers over 30 suggestions to spread love, positivity, and motivational thoughts as you welcome the new year and look forward to new beginnings and endless possibilities.

The world welcomed 2025 with grand celebrations. China showcased a spectacular drone show, London had mesmerizing fireworks despite stormy weather, and UAE’s Abu Dhabi and Dubai lit up the sky. Singapore’s Marina Bay and New Zealand’s Auckland hosted stunning displays. Sydney impressed with its iconic fireworks, while New York, Pasadena, Nashville, and Mumbai celebrated with traditional and vibrant festivities.

Arvind Kejriwal has questioned Mohan Bhagwat about BJP's practices affecting democracy, including vote-buying and voter manipulation. Kejriwal doubted if the RSS supports these actions. AAP spokesperson accused BJP leaders of deleting voters' names and offering money for votes in various constituencies, amidst escalating accusations as both parties gear up for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections.

US President-elect Donald Trump reaffirmed his stance on H-1B visas, emphasizing the need for competent and smart individuals in the country. He denied changing his opinion on the visas and highlighted their importance in bringing skilled workers to the US. Trump aligned with Elon Musk and commented on the necessity for visa holders amidst upcoming job growth.

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc is expected to play the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar series despite a rib injury, according to teammate Alex Carey. Starc's fitness will be evaluated closer to the match, with Jhye Richardson ready to step in if needed.

A business owner in Delhi, Puneet Khurana, allegedly died by suicide amid an ongoing divorce case with his wife. The incident occurred in the Model Town area. Puneet's family claims he was upset over the dispute, fueled by a conversation about their bakery business. Police are investigating the allegations and have questioned Puneet's wife.

Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath praised Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah for his instrumental role in keeping the Border-Gavaskar Trophy competitive, citing his adaptability and control. McGrath highlighted Bumrah's unique hyper-extension and short run-up while emphasizing the talent pool in Indian cricket, including prospects like Prasidh Krishna and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

In a historic decision, Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi chose to share the 2024 World Blitz Championship title after a series of intense and closely-fought games in New York. Following a tie in the sudden death rounds, FIDE and both players agreed on the unprecedented outcome, marking the first dual winners in the championship's history.

Indian chess prodigy Vaishali Rameshbabu secured a bronze medal at the 2024 World Blitz Championship in New York, praised by her mentor Viswanathan Anand. China's Ju Wenjun triumphed over Lei Tingjie, while the Open section title was shared by Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi after a tie in the finals.

India welcomed 2025 with New Year's Eve house parties, driving high demand for snacks, beverages, and party supplies on Blinkit and Swiggy Instamart. Highlights included record orders for aloo bhujia, chips, and ice cubes. BigBasket noted significant spikes in ice cube and beverage sales, while top cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad led in delivery tips.

Stock market today: Indian equity benchmark indices, BSE Sensex and Nifty50, opened in green on Wednesday, the first trading day of the New Year 2025. While BSE Sensex rose 100 points, Nifty50 was above 23,600.