India and the UK resumed their FTA talks to boost the GBP 42 billion annual bilateral trade. The discussions, paused due to elections, aim to address key issues such as business visas, duty cuts, and fair treatment of spirits. The deal seeks to support exports, particularly in labour-intensive sectors like textiles.
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The Embassy of India in Bangkok has issued an emergency helpline for Indian nationals in Thailand following a powerful earthquake in Myanmar that impacted the region. The embassy is coordinating with Thai authorities and no incidents involving Indian citizens have been reported yet. Prime Minister Modi expressed readiness to assist affected nations.
Actor Allu Arjun was granted interim bail by the Telangana High Court after being arrested in connection with a deadly stampede at a movie theatre. While supporting Allu Arjun, fellow actor Kangana Ranaut emphasized the importance of accountability for all, regardless of status.
Allu Arjun's 'Pushpa 2' dominates the Indian box office, raking ₹647.31 crore in just seven days. The film, starring Rashmika Mandanna, is projected to surpass ₹1000 crore globally. Its success continues despite weekday screenings, proving its mass appeal. ETimes praises the film's blend of action, drama, and social commentary.
A study presented in Copenhagen reveals a potential increased risk of autism and developmental delays in children born to mothers who had COVID-19 during pregnancy. The study found 11% of such children screened positive for autism spectrum disorder, compared to the expected prevalence of 1-2%. Other studies, however, report varying results.
A police sub-inspector, Kishore, his parents, and brother-in-law have been booked for threatening Kishore's wife with a service revolver over dowry demands. Kishore allegedly beat her regularly and demanded Rs 10 lakh for better posting and monthly payments of Rs 50,000 from her parents.
Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar reaffirms commitment to secular and progressive politics, warns against divisiveness and corruption, and urges higher-income beneficiaries to opt out of the Ladki Bahin Yojana. He emphasizes transparency in party membership and criticizes opposition complaints about EVMs when they lose elections.
A Nagpur psychologist was arrested for sexually exploiting and blackmailing around 50 students over 15 years. Police discovered compromising photographs used for blackmail. Assisted by his wife and a friend, they recruited children for his courses. After a victim reported the abuse, multiple cases have been filed under the Posco Act and SC/ST Act.
Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar stated Israel can learn from India's soft power approach in conflict narratives. Azar highlighted India's support for Israel's core interests while acknowledging differences on UNRWA aid and UN resolutions. He suggested potential progress in hostage negotiations and emphasized Israel's goal to dismantle Hamas' military capabilities in Gaza.
Two asteroids, 2024 YF7 and 2024 YR9, are set to pass near Earth in early January. NASA confirms no immediate threat but emphasizes the importance of tracking such objects for solar system insights and planetary defense. These events help scientists understand early solar system conditions and prepare for potential future risks.
Ricky Gill, Saurabh Sharma, and Kush Desai are appointed to significant roles in President Donald Trump's administration. Gill is the senior director for South and Central Asia in the NSC, Sharma is joining the Presidential personnel office, and Desai is the deputy press secretary in the White House communications team.