Times of India

MAGA hardliners are targeting the OPT program which allows foreign students, especially from India, to gain work experience in the US, arguing it unfairly replaces American jobs. The OPT program, seen as a pathway to H1-B visas, faces scrutiny, which may impact the influx of foreign students and overall academic and economic contributions.

January 1st marks a fresh start for 2025, filled with new beginnings, traditions, and resolutions. People celebrate with fireworks, gatherings, and symbolic foods, emphasizing love, family, and optimism. The article offers a range of New Year wishes, messages, and quotes to share with loved ones, alongside inspirational reflections on starting anew.

Delhi CM Atishi has urged Lieutenant Governor Saxena to reconsider orders for demolishing religious structures, including those significant to Dalit communities. She stressed the need for consultation with the elected government. The LG's office has dismissed her claims as political tactics, asserting no such demolitions are planned. Political tensions between Atishi and the LG continue to rise.

Hemant Jain's 23-year struggle to claim a property linked to Dawood Ibrahim highlights his resilience against bureaucratic hurdles and the underworld's hold. Despite inflated costs and missing documents, Jain succeeds in registering the property, but he still faces the challenge of evicting current occupants allegedly connected to Dawood.

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams and her team on the ISS will welcome 2025 with 16 sunrises and sunsets, extending their mission due to technical issues. They will celebrate with special meals, video calls with loved ones, and continue vital scientific research while in space.

US defense secretary Lloyd Ausin has lost the bid to block the plea deal reached by 9/11 attacks accused Khalid Sheikh Mohammad and two others which allows them to escape death penalty by pleading guilty to the crime. Austin had issued a brief order nullifying the plea, within two days of the plea deal.

In the 2024 election season, slogans became powerful tools for shaping public opinion and influencing voter behavior, reflecting both the aspirations and anxieties of the electorate. Parties like BJP and Congress utilized impactful slogans to convey their core messages, promote unity, and address key issues.

In 2024, the nation faced multiple violent crimes, ranging from mob attacks in Sandeshkhali to tragic murders and terrorist acts. These incidents highlighted ongoing challenges in public safety, law enforcement, and social justice, sparking national outrage and urgent calls for reform.

India achieved considerable progress in its defence sector in 2024, including record-breaking indigenous production and exports, strategic international collaborations, and the addition of new military assets. Key developments include the commissioning of indigenous aircraft and ships, high-value contracts for advanced drones, the launch of new surveillance satellites, and successful military collaborations with countries like the US, Spain, and France.

In 2024, the Supreme Court of India delivered numerous landmark judgments, addressing significant legal issues such as election-related bail, child pornography under POCSO, UAPA arrests, and the Electoral Bonds Scheme. The court also tackled contentious topics like EVM reliability, habeas corpus petitions, unlawful demolitions, and minority status for Aligarh Muslim University.

In 2024, global political landscapes saw dramatic changes with pivotal elections in prominent countries. Key highlights include India’s coalition government after a decade of BJP dominance, Trump’s return to White House in US, Labour’s UK victory, Sheikh Hasina's win and subsequent ouster Bangladesh, and reformist wins in Iran, Sri Lanka, Mexico, Taiwan, South Africa, and Indonesia.

College football star Travis Hunter, who recently won the Heisman Trophy, was criticized for ignoring a young fan after losing at the 2024 Alamo Bowl. The video shows him walking hand in hand with his fiancée, Leanna Lenee. This incident, coupled with ongoing trolling about his relationship, raises concerns about his future in the NFL.

The year 2024 saw extreme weather conditions with the hottest month on record, intense wildfires, numerous hurricanes and typhoons, and devastating floods and cyclones impacting various regions worldwide. Agriculture, food production, and infrastructure were severely affected, highlighting the urgent need for immediate climate action to mitigate these disastrous effects.

In 2024, India saw protests from various groups including laborers demanding the repeal of new labor codes, Muslims opposing property demolitions, Ladakh locals striving for greater autonomy, and citizens advocating for clean air. These movements underscored calls for better governance, fair treatment, and environmental protection.

Mumbai's Ayush Mhatre, at 17 years and 168 days, set a new world record for the youngest player to score 150+ runs in List A cricket during the Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Nagaland on Tuesday. His 181-run performance surpassed Yashasvi Jaiswal's record and showcased his promising talent for the future of Indian cricket.