Maoists in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region abducted three tribal villagers from Hallur in Bijapur, killed one suspecting him as a police informer, and freed the other two after thrashing them. This incident followed an operation where security forces killed 12 Maoists. Additionally, two BSF personnel were injured in a blast in Narayanpur.
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Sunita Williams, Nasa astronaut, returned to Earth after a nine-month stay on the International Space Station. She arrived with fellow astronauts Butch Wilmore and Nick Hague, and cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov. Williams' mission was extended due to issues with Boeing’s Starliner capsule. She set a record for the most spacewalking time for a female astronaut.
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.
US President Donald Trump offered condolences and praised first responders after a mid-air collision between a passenger jet and an army helicopter near Washington DC. The crash resulted in multiple fatalities, and no survivors have been found. The accident involved American Airlines Flight 5342 and a Black Hawk helicopter on a training mission. Investigations are ongoing.
China has strongly condemned growing US pressure on its trading partners, pledging to retaliate against actions harming its interests. Washington is reportedly urging allies to reduce trade with Beijing for tariff exemptions, which China views as coercive. Beijing insists on equality in trade talks and warns against protectionism, emphasizing its resolve to defend its rights amidst escalating tariffs.
In 2024, the US issued over one million visas to Indians, who became the top international students. Visa renewals and processing efficiency improved, alongside the removal of the two-year residency requirement for Indian exchange visitors. The enhanced Smart Traveler Enrollment Program was launched to improve emergency communication for US citizens in India.
As California wildfires rage, the use of private firefighting services by wealthy homeowners sparks debate over fairness and accessibility. While demand for these costly services rises, insurance companies and developers are offering proactive fire protection measures like fire-resistant construction and personal hydrants to mitigate risks.
In response to US President Donald Trump's recent tariff increases on Chinese imports, Beijing announced it will impose additional tariffs on a range of US agricultural products starting next week. The new measures, affecting items like chicken, wheat, soybeans, and pork, aim to protect China's economic interests amid escalating trade tensions.
Ravichandran Ashwin, India's second-most successful Test bowler, announced his retirement from international cricket after the drawn Brisbane Test against Australia at the Gabba on Wednesday. The 38-year-old, with 537 Test wickets and six centuries, will continue playing franchise cricket, notably for Chennai Super Kings in the next edition of the IPL in 2025.
Jasprit Bumrah has emerged as one of India's top fast bowlers across all formats since his debut in 2016. Former bowling coach Paras Mhambrey praised Bumrah's focus, constant need to improve, and his effective leadership skills. Despite concerns about his unique bowling action, Mhambrey hopes Bumrah’s body supports him for at least the next five years.
Union Minister Chirag Paswan criticized the administrative meat ban during Navratri and Eid-ul-Fitr, labeling it divisive and unnecessary. At a National Democratic Alliance meeting, he urged political parties to avoid commenting on religious matters, emphasizing the importance of personal faith and unity. Paswan argued that resolving interference by religious and political organizations could address many existing issues.