US President-elect Donald Trump plans to visit China and India early in his second term to improve relations, aiming to address trade issues and other bilateral concerns. He communicated with Chinese President Xi Jinping, hoping to resolve various problems collaboratively. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in preliminary talks during his Washington DC visit.
Related news
The Central government introduced bills in Lok Sabha for simultaneous elections, facing opposition uproar. Critics argued it undermines federalism, while the government defended it as a long-standing recommendation. The bills were referred to a joint parliamentary committee for scrutiny, highlighting the significant challenge of achieving the two-thirds majority required for constitutional amendments.
With the Delhi Assembly elections approaching, BJP released its second manifesto promising free education for underprivileged students, financial support for competitive exam preparations, welfare measures for auto and taxi drivers, and domestic helpers. The party also aims to tackle corruption, promising a Special Investigation Team to investigate irregularities. These promises aim to provide practical relief and strengthen ongoing welfare schemes.
A near-collision incident at LAX involving a Delta flight and Gonzaga men's basketball team's charter plane is under investigation by the FAA. An air traffic controller's urgent warning prevented the disaster. Delta claims no knowledge of the investigation, while cooperation continues. This event follows the tragic Jeju Air crash in South Korea, which resulted in 179 fatalities.
The Tamil Nadu Assembly's resolution urging the central government to revisit the Indo-Lankan agreement and reclaim Katchatheevu was unanimously passed. The resolution highlighted the ongoing hardships faced by fishermen and demanded negotiations for their release during PM Modi's visit to Sri Lanka.
Gurmeet Ram Rahim, head of Dera Sacha Sauda and convicted for rape and murder, was released on a 30-day parole from Sunaria jail. His release coincides with the upcoming Haryana civic elections and Delhi polls. Ram Rahim has been out of jail for a total of 305 days since October 2020, often around election periods.
Putin declared Russia's readiness for a "missile duel" with the US, showcasing the Oreshnik hypersonic missile. He confirmed plans to meet Assad and expressed willingness to engage with Trump. Putin also addressed Russia's economic overheating, supporting the central bank's measures to curb inflation and projecting slower growth in 2025.
Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy has requested an appointment with PM Narendra Modi to discuss two bills proposing 42% reservation for backward classes in education, employment, and local bodies. Reddy seeks support from leaders of various political parties, all of whom backed the proposal in the assembly debate.
Fans were disappointed when police stopped Ed Sheeran’s surprise performance on Church Street in Bengaluru. Many felt it was unnecessary and cited the city's vibrant music culture. The incident sparked an online debate about the flexibility of authorities towards spontaneous artistic expressions. Some believed the authorities acted appropriately to prevent potential chaos.
CBSE plans to conduct two Class X Board exams annually, starting in 2026, in February and May. This schedule gives students flexibility to choose their preferred exam date and subjects. The best score from either exam will be recorded on the certificate.
Walmart is facing a week-long boycott, "Walmart Blackout," organized by People’s Union USA over DEI rollbacks and tax policies. Walmart defends its community contributions and economic impact, citing significant tax payments and charitable donations. Data suggests Walmart is more resilient to boycotts compared to Target, which experienced a larger impact from similar protests.