The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is poised to win the German election, with Friedrich Merz set to become the new chancellor. The ruling Social Democrats are seeing a decline, while the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is gaining ground. Merz, known for his firm stance on asylum-seekers and business background, aims to strengthen Europe's security.
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Canada announced changes to its Express Entry program, impacting IT professionals seeking permanent residency. The removal of extra points for LMIA-backed job offers will increase competition, requiring higher CRS scores based on factors like age, education, and language proficiency. The changes follow recent revisions to broader immigration policies aimed at addressing housing and infrastructure challenges.
A cargo ship at Istanbul port capsized due to imbalanced cargo loading, leading to a rescue operation for the crew. Ten crew members were rescued quickly, while five others escaped by jumping into the water. One crew member was slightly injured and taken to a hospital.
Srinagar's Dal Lake froze over on Monday as a severe cold wave gripped Kashmir, forcing boat operators to break ice to navigate. Temperatures plummeted to -7°C, with the intense cold expected to continue. Despite the frigid conditions, residents await snowfall. Kashmir's harsh winter period, 'Chillai Kalan,' will last until January 31, followed by 'Chillai-Khurd' and 'Chillai-Bachha'.
Delhi experienced a sudden weather shift with dusty storms bringing down temperatures after a warm night. The weather department forecasts rain and thunderstorms. The minimum temperature reached 25.9 degrees Celsius, the highest in three years for April, categorized as a 'warm night' by the IMD. Air quality is currently in the 'poor' category with an AQI of 243.
Seth Meyers criticized Elon Musk's influence on Donald Trump and his stance on the government shutdown, comparing it to a dystopian "Christmas Carol." The House passed a funding bill despite opposition from Trump and Musk, with Trump's team asserting his continued leadership within the Republican party.
Mohammed Siraj continued his on-field theatrics during the Brisbane Test, playfully flipping the bails at Marnus Labuschagne's end on day two of the match at the Gabba. This followed a previous incident in Adelaide where Siraj and Labuschagne clashed during the beer-snake incident, followed by the Indian pacer's face-off with Travis Head.
World-renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, 73, passed away in San Francisco due to complications from pulmonary fibrosis. His family confirmed the news, prompting tributes from figures like Sachin Tendulkar, who recalled Hussain's humility and musical genius. Hussain, son of Ustad Alla Rakha, collaborated with both Indian and Western music icons, leaving a vast legacy.
Hardik Pandya is highlighted as a crucial player for India's ICC Champions Trophy campaign by former Pakistani wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal and former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina. His all-round capabilities in batting and bowling are deemed essential for the team's success. The tournament will be held in Pakistan and the UAE from February 19 to March 9.
Imarat Shariah, a major Muslim organisation in Bihar, has refused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's Iftaar invitation, protesting his support for the Waqf Bill. They allege the bill will harm Muslims’ economic and educational status. Accusing Kumar of betraying his secular promises, the group deems his actions as tokenism. JD(U) has yet to respond.
Pakistan rebukes a US official's comments on its missile program, calling the allegations unfounded and harmful to bilateral relations. The Foreign Office defends Pakistan's right to maintain a credible minimum deterrence, emphasizing it poses no threat to the US and its missile development is purely defensive.