Thousands of Muslim pilgrims face disappointment as 42,000 applicants are unable to perform Haj this year, prompting calls for PM Modi's intervention. The minority affairs ministry attributes the issue to delays by private tour operators, while operators cite problems with the Saudi portal's payment system.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude towards US President Donald Trump and Americans for their support during the three years of full-scale invasion. This followed a tense meeting where Trump and VP Vance accused Zelenskyy of not being sufficiently thankful for the aid provided by the US.
Bengaluru's BWSSB has banned borewell drilling due to the drastic fall in groundwater levels and an IISc red alert. Although Cauvery water will now supply areas, exceptions for government agencies will be verified. The board had previously granted permits due to lack of Cauvery water. Strict legal action awaits violators.
Meta plans to lay off around 3,600 employees to improve performance management, focusing on removing underperforming staff sooner. The move aims for 10% non-regrettable attrition, sparking concerns over the accuracy of performance reviews and timing following recent changes within the company.
Nitish Kumar Reddy emerges as a standout talent during India's Australian tour, impressing with a maiden international century. Sunil Gavaskar praises Reddy's cricketing intelligence and consistent performances, considering him a better batter than Hardik Pandya.
Ravi Shastri and Ricky Ponting are disappointed with India's decision not to include Mohammed Shami for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. They believe Shami's presence would have improved India's chances. Despite showing readiness, Shami was ruled out due to knee swelling. They argue that Shami's experience and fitness management could have been crucial.
In 2024, the top 10 climate disasters inflicted over $288 billion in damages and claimed over 2,000 lives globally, with the US bearing nearly half the financial burden. South-east Asia accounted for over 40% of the casualties. The report highlights the disproportionate impact on lower-income countries and underscores the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels.
Indian athletes made history in 2024, achieving Olympic triumphs, cricket glory with the T20 World Cup, and groundbreaking accomplishments in badminton, chess, and para-athletics. Iconic retirements marked the year's end as legends like Chhetri, Sreejesh, and Karmakar departed, while young talents in squash and tennis shone brightly.
India has lodged a strong protest with China over the creation of two counties in Hotan prefecture, which include areas in Ladakh. India has also raised concerns about China's hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo river in Tibet, emphasizing transparency and consultation with downstream states.
Eli Lilly has launched Mounjaro in India, a new once-weekly injectable drug for type 2 diabetes and weight management. Approved by CDSCO, it targets GIP and GLP-1 receptors, aiming to improve blood sugar control and aid in weight loss. Clinical trials showed significant results, underlining its potential in treating diabetes and obesity.
Tata Motors shares fell by 6.31% following President Trump's announcement of a 25% tariff on imported cars. The United States, a significant market for Jaguar Land Rover, contributes 22% of its total sales. The impending tariffs could necessitate price adjustments and efficiency measures.