Foreign secretary Vikram Misri met Afghanistan's acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai, discussing India's readiness to support Afghan development needs and receiving assurance on security concerns. The meeting, amid strained Afghan-Pakistani relations, focused on humanitarian aid, health sector support, and strengthening diplomatic and trade ties, including using Chabahar port for humanitarian purposes.
Related news
Senior IPS officer DGP Ramachandra Rao has distanced himself from his stepdaughter, Kannada actress Ranya Rao, following her arrest in a gold smuggling case. Ranya was caught at Bengaluru Airport with 14.8 kg of gold worth Rs 12.56 crore. Authorities suspect her involvement in a larger smuggling network. DGP Rao asserted his lack of knowledge of her actions.
US President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports will start on Tuesday, dismissing hopes for exemptions. He cited concerns over illegal drug trafficking and migration. Additionally, tariffs on Chinese imports will be increased from 10% to 20%, addressing Beijing's failure to curb illicit fentanyl trade. Trump also commented on Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's response to US support.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin felicitated 18-year-old D. Gukesh, the world's youngest chess champion, with ₹5 crore and announced the establishment of a chess academy. Stalin praised Gukesh's achievement, calling him an inspiration for aspiring youth. Gukesh expressed gratitude for the government's support and acknowledged Viswanathan Anand as his role model.
In a thrilling IPL 2025 encounter, Delhi Capitals secured a dramatic Super Over victory against Rajasthan Royals. Mitchell Starc's composed bowling in the final over and Super Over restricted Rajasthan, while Tristan Stubbs sealed the win with a six. Sandeep Sharma struggled under pressure, faltering in both the final over and Super Over.
Makar Sankranti, celebrated across India in mid-January, marks the Sun's transition into Capricorn. This festival honors the Sun God, signifies the end of the winter solstice, and celebrates the harvest. Traditions include flying kites, sharing sweets, and regional customs like Lohri in Punjab and Pongal in Tamil Nadu, promoting joy and family bonds.
Force Motors has secured an order to supply 2,978 Force Gurkha units to the Indian Defence Forces, marking a significant milestone. The Gurkha, available in three-door and five-door versions and powered by a 2.6-litre diesel engine, offers updated features and a best-in-class ground clearance, making it suitable for military operations and rough terrains.
China is experiencing deflation, with consumer prices dropping by 0.7% and producer prices decreasing by 2.2%. The surplus industrial capacity and reduced consumer spending are contributing to this downturn. Analysts worry that without government intervention, deflationary pressures might persist, impacting business earnings and economic growth.
India's bowling coach Morne Morkel on Sunday admitted struggles containing Travis Head's century in the Brisbane Test. Head and Smith's 171-run partnership propelled Australia to 405/7 on Day 2. Morkel highlighted the need to improve bowling with the older ball, particularly between overs 50 and 80, and execute planned strategies more effectively.
Only Gujarat, Odisha, West Bengal, and Maharashtra have reduced their debt-to-GSDP ratios, while Punjab and Tamil Nadu have seen significant increases. Economists propose enhanced fiscal oversight and debt relief for heavily indebted states in exchange for more central oversight. Recommendations include better revenue mobilization, tax base broadening, and capacity-enhancing investments.
Uttarakhand Waqf Board chairman Shadab Shams criticized the opposition for opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. He emphasized that PM Modi aims to mainstream poor Muslims and accused the opposition of misusing Waqf resources over the past 70 years.