India and Bangladesh agreed to a mutual exchange of 185 fishermen and their vessels amid discord in ties. Dhaka will hand over 95 Indian fishermen, while India will release 90 Bangladeshi fishermen. The exchange, focusing on humanitarian concerns, involves two Bangladeshi and six Indian boats, concluding on January 6.
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The Centre plans to revamp Delhi zoo's entrance with a modern multi-utility plaza featuring a food court, cloakroom, security infrastructure, queue management area, souvenir shop, visitor center, and parking. The development aligns with site needs, accommodating 16,000 sq m multi-level parking and 11,000 sq m for future expansion.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen experienced India's advanced UPI digital payments system during her visit. She was impressed by its efficiency. PM Modi had earlier highlighted UPI's significance by comparing daily transactions in India to the EU's population. The visit underscored strengthening India-EU ties.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the disparity between Indian and Chinese startups, emphasizing that while Indian startups focus on food delivery and fantasy sports apps, Chinese startups concentrate on advanced technologies like EVs, AI, and semiconductors. He called for more domestic investment and innovation in the Indian startup ecosystem.
Karnataka deputy CM DK Shivakumar dismissed rumours of a power struggle within the Congress-led government and affirmed his commitment to serving the full five-year term alongside CM Siddaramaiah. Despite speculation about a rotational chief minister formula, Shivakumar stressed that party directives would guide their actions, quashing any talk of imminent leadership changes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party for its alleged appeasement politics and for prioritizing family interests. He highlighted instances of freedom suppression during the Emergency and accused Congress of neglecting BR Ambedkar. Modi praised his government’s policies as more inclusive and focused on 'nation first'.
Bhaskar Das, a visionary and mentor, influenced the media industry with his innovative ideas and passion. Fondly known as BhaskarDa, he inspired many through his guidance and enthusiasm for teaching. His legacy continues to impact those who were privileged to know him.
Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Mauritius Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful attended the funeral of former Indian PM Manmohan Singh in Delhi. Bhutan held prayer ceremonies, flew its national flag at half-mast, and lit a thousand butter lamps in respect. The king, PM Tshering Tobgay, and Indian ambassador Sudhakar Dalela participated in the solemn event in Thimphu.
In a coordinated effort, the CBI helped arrest two fugitives wanted in massive fraud cases. Janarthanan Sundaram was deported from Thailand and intercepted in Kolkata, while Virendrabhai Manibhai Patel was detained in Ahmedabad after returning from the US. Both were handed over to their respective state police.
Indian Oil Chairman Arvinder Singh Sahney states that US sanctions on Russia will have limited impact on India's energy supplies, citing multiple global sources. He forecasts crude prices to remain within a USD 75-80 per barrel range, leaning towards USD 75. IOC plans no new acquisitions and anticipates Panipat's green hydrogen plant commissioning within 2 years.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized previous governments for neglecting the poor and using the 'Garibi Hatao' slogan as a mere electoral gimmick. He highlighted the BJP-led NDA government's efforts in lifting 25 crore people out of poverty through various welfare schemes and reforms, including cleaning up the bogus ration card system.