Times of India

Maharashtra government forms a 10-member SIT to probe the murder of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. The CID-led team aims to expedite the arrest of the remaining suspects. Villagers staged a protest for swift action. Three accused are arrested; others remain at large. Investigation includes extortion allegations tied to a windmill company.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday humorously suggested introducing a law to counter Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah's dominance. During a New Year's Day reception ahead of the Sydney Test, the PM praised Bumrah’s exceptional performance in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which includes 30 wickets at an average of 12.83.

Eyewitnesses have recalled the chilling moments of a deadly attack in New Orleans' French Quarter on New Year's Day. A pickup truck ploughed into a crowd on Bourbon Street, killing at least 10 and injuring over 30. The driver, described as “hell-bent on carnage,” aimed to hit as many people as possible before opening fire on police officers. The attack, which occurred at 3.15am, left bystanders in shock, with some offering help to victims after the gunfire ceased.

Elon Musk played a pivotal role in Trump’s 2024 election success and is now influencing Germany's elections by endorsing the far-right AfD, impacting Germany's political stability and the European Union's cohesion. This endorsement has sparked significant political turmoil and criticism in Germany.

Airlines should not seat passengers inside planes for over 90 minutes during fog delays, and must cancel flights delayed beyond three hours. The aviation ministry has directed airlines to enhance communication with passengers, deploy adequate staff, and implement advanced weather systems to minimize inconvenience. Real-time visibility updates and improved coordination at fog-affected airports are also emphasized.

An intoxicated man climbed an electric pole and lay on the wires in M Singapuram village after his mother refused to give him her social security pension money. Villagers quickly turned off the power supply, preventing a disaster. Authorities later charged him for his dangerous actions.

Top brands, including Google, Xiaomi, Zomato, and Flipkart, ushered in the New Year with creative and engaging social media posts. These greetings blended humour, emotion, and product highlights, reinforcing their connection with customers.

India experienced its highest temperatures since 1901 in 2024, with the average minimum temperature rising by 0.90 degrees Celsius above the long-period average, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The annual mean temperature reached 25.75 degrees Celsius. Global temperatures consistently exceeded the 1.5-degree threshold, attributed to increased greenhouse gases.

Early Wednesday morning, a vehicle drove into a crowd on Bourbon Street in New Orleans' French Quarter, resulting in multiple fatalities. Witnesses reported the driver exited and began firing a weapon, prompting police to return fire. Authorities previously issued a warning to avoid the area due to a potential incident.

Air India will introduce Wi-Fi connectivity on domestic flights from January 1, 2025. The service will be available on A350, B787-9, and selected A321neo aircraft. Passengers will enjoy complimentary access during the initial phase. The service supports various devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Connectivity depends on factors like satellite connectivity and government restrictions.

Gautam Gambhir's role as India's head coach is under scrutiny amid declining performances from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Communication issues and selection disagreements are reported, with Gambhir's approach questioned. If improvements aren't seen in the upcoming Test and Champions Trophy, his position might be in jeopardy.

Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey defended the third umpire's decision to dismiss Indian batter Yashasvi Jaiswal on Day 5 of the Melbourne Test, stating the visual evidence was clear despite inconsistencies with the Snickometer. Jaiswal's wicket was crucial as Australia's 184-run win over India ended India's chances for the WTC Final, leading to heated debates.

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.