India has finalized a significant deal with France, procuring 26 Rafale-Marine jets for approximately Euro 7 billion. Deliveries are scheduled from mid-2028 to 2030, enhancing the Indian Navy's capabilities, especially for aircraft carrier operations. This acquisition aims to counter China's growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean, providing a substantial boost to India's maritime air power.
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Congressman Shashi Tharoor declined to comment on internal party criticism about his praise for Kerala's LDF government and PM Modi. He diverted attention to the India-Pakistan cricket match. Tharoor shared concerns about Congress's electoral prospects in Kerala, suggesting a leadership vacuum and hinting at alternative career options if not required by the party.
President-elect Donald Trump reiterated plans to control the Panama Canal and Greenland, refusing to rule out military or economic coercion to achieve these goals. He described the Panama Canal as a “vital national asset†and criticised its management under Panama and China. Trump also signalled interest in pardoning January 6 rioters, including those charged with violent offences, and expressed concerns about Russia's war in Ukraine.
Japan is using cow dung to create fuel for vehicles, reducing carbon emissions and managing agricultural waste. In Shikaoi, cow manure is converted into hydrogen for farm equipment and local businesses. This innovative process has caught global attention, with similar projects already being implemented in other regions. This technology presents a promising future for clean, renewable energy.
Dr Mehmet Oz's swearing-in ceremony as CMS administrator was abruptly halted when a young girl, later identified as a family member, collapsed during a White House press briefing. The incident occurred shortly after Oz took the oath of office, administered by Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, with President Trump in attendance.
Parliament is scheduled to discuss the Indian Constitution on its 75th anniversary, but political sparring is expected. The opposition, led by Rahul Gandhi, aims to raise issues like the Adani controversy and caste census, while the BJP plans to target Congress's alleged links to George Soros and past actions.
The India Meteorological Department issued health risk warnings due to a heatwave affecting Konkan, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, and southwest Rajasthan. Temperatures have soared above normal, with Pune reaching 40.2°C. Vulnerable populations are advised to avoid heat exposure and stay hydrated. Some regions might see a temperature decline from Thursday, as Maharashtra's Akola reached 41.3°C, the state's highest.
A joint operation by Gujarat ATS and the Indian Coast Guard led to the seizure of over 300kg of methamphetamine, valued at Rs 1,800 crore, from the Arabian Sea. Smugglers, attempting to deliver the drugs to Tamil Nadu from Pakistan, dumped contraband into the sea when approached by the Coast Guard.
Karnataka's Congress government has launched a probe into DGP Ramachandra Rao's potential involvement in a gold-smuggling racket linked to his daughter, actress Ranya Rao. An inquiry led by ACS Gaurav Gupta will investigate allegations that Rao directed a constable to escort Ranya with 14.2kg of gold from Bengaluru's airport. Other aspects being probed include possible links to a bitcoin scam.
The first Vande Bharat sleeper train prototype has been dispatched for field trials after undergoing quality checks. Manufactured by BEML and ICF, it boasts a 160 kmph top speed, enhanced safety features, and improved passenger comfort, aiming to surpass Rajdhani Express.
Indian tech companies are rolling out innovative perks to attract and retain millennial and Gen Z employees. These include unlimited sick leave, pet-friendly policies, and "well-being days" to combat burnout and boost productivity. Companies are also focusing on skill development, diversity, and flexible work arrangements to cater to the evolving needs of the younger workforce.