December 17, 2025

Karnataka Revenue Deficit to Rise Amid GST Impact, Mines Tax Delay; FDI Soars

Karnataka's revenue deficit could widen in 2025-26 due to GST rate cuts and delayed mine tax approval. Despite this, FDI inflows jumped 149%, reaching $5.6 billion in Q1.

December 17, 2025

Lok Sabha Passes SHANTI Bill to Boost Private Role in Nuclear Energy with Cap on Liability

The Lok Sabha passed the SHANTI Bill 2025 on December 17, opening India's nuclear sector to private players and capping liability at ₹3,000 crore. The Bill moves to Rajya Sabha next. Opposition raised concerns over liability limits and private participation but the government said nuclear risks and technology have changed.

December 17, 2025

Rajya Sabha Approves 100% FDI in Insurance Through Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha Bill

Rajya Sabha passed the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha Bill, allowing 100% FDI in insurance. The Repealing and Amending Bill that removes 71 old laws was also cleared. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the move will boost foreign investment and lower premiums.

December 17, 2025

Warner Bros Picks Netflix’s $72bn Deal Over Paramount’s $108bn Bid

Warner Bros Discovery told shareholders to reject Paramount Skydance’s $108.4bn bid. Instead, the board backs Netflix’s $72bn offer for its film and streaming units. Netflix’s clearer funding and lower regulatory risk persuaded Warner Bros. The takeover fight for this Hollywood giant continues.

December 18, 2025

Russian Intelligence Targets Belgium Over €185bn Frozen Assets Amid EU Funding Debate for Ukraine

Russian intelligence is pressuring Belgian politicians and finance leaders to block EU plans using €185bn frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine. EU leaders debate a €90bn loan to support Kyiv’s war effort through 2027. Belgium demands legal safeguards amid threats to Euroclear executives and politicians.

December 17, 2025

New Viksit Bharat Guarantee Bill Faces Sharp Opposition in Parliament, Raising State Burden Concerns

The Viksit Bharat Guarantee Bill to repeal MGNREGA faces strong backlash in Parliament and outside. Critics warn it centralises control, raises costs for states, and weakens rural job guarantees.

December 17, 2025

Karnataka Revenue Deficit to Rise Amid GST Impact, Mines Tax Delay; FDI Soars

Karnataka's revenue deficit could widen in 2025-26 due to GST rate cuts and delayed mine tax approval. Despite this, FDI inflows jumped 149%, reaching $5.6 billion in Q1.

December 17, 2025

Karnataka High Court Cuts Interest on Delayed Leave Encashment for NWKRTC Retirees to 6%

The Karnataka High Court has ordered NWKRTC to pay 6% interest on delayed leave encashment to retired employees. The decision comes as public transport corporations face financial losses due to pandemic impact and government policies.

December 17, 2025

Suspect in Kabaddi Player Murder Shot Dead by Punjab Police in Encounter

Harpinder alias Middu, accused in the Mohali kabaddi player Kanwar Digvijay Singh's killing, was shot dead by police in a firing exchange. Two officers were injured. The victim was shot at a private tournament.

December 16, 2025

West Bengal Govt Issues Notices Over Chaos at Messi Event; Probe Underway

West Bengal government has issued show-cause notices to top officials following mismanagement at the Lionel Messi event. A special investigation team has been set up after chaos at Salt Lake Stadium caused nearly ₹2 crore in damages.

December 16, 2025

Nagapattinam Launches Sailing Training for Fishermen's Children Ahead of Deputy CM Visit

Nagapattinam district sets up sailing training inside its port for children of fishermen. Royal Madras Yacht Club supports this new eco-friendly sport initiative to nurture local talent. Velankanni beach water sports also planned to boost tourism and provide jobs.

December 15, 2025

Calcutta High Court to Hear PILs Seeking CBI Probe into Messi Event Violence

Three PILs demand central probe into chaos and vandalism at Lionel Messi's Salt Lake Stadium event. Arrests made; court debate on investigation underway.

December 18, 2025

Supreme Court Defers Decision on School Closure Amid Delhi's Air Pollution Crisis

The Supreme Court avoided ruling on whether primary school kids should attend school or stay home during severe air pollution in Delhi. The court cited the approaching winter break and hoped pollution will ease before classes resume.

December 18, 2025

TN Allocates ₹113 Crore for Menstrual Hygiene; No Essential Commodity Status for Sanitary Napkins

Tamil Nadu government plans ₹113.10 crore for menstrual hygiene programs despite sanitary napkins not being declared essential. Court seeks info to widen benefits.

December 18, 2025

Russian Intelligence Targets Belgium Over €185bn Frozen Assets Amid EU Funding Debate for Ukraine

Russian intelligence is pressuring Belgian politicians and finance leaders to block EU plans using €185bn frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine. EU leaders debate a €90bn loan to support Kyiv’s war effort through 2027. Belgium demands legal safeguards amid threats to Euroclear executives and politicians.

December 17, 2025

IUML Workers Booked for Vandalism and Caste Slur in Kerala Panchayat Office

Police have filed a case against IUML workers for vandalising Changarooth panchayat office and humiliating an SC leader with caste slurs after local elections.

December 17, 2025

Delhi HC Stops Pirated Software Use at Udyog Bhawan Surveillance System

Delhi High Court orders stop to pirated Mirasys software used in Udyog Bhawan’s security system. The move protects official property from illegal software misuse.

December 17, 2025

Prasar Bharati Unveils Draft Content Syndication Policy 2025 for Public Feedback

Prasar Bharati has shared its draft Content Syndication Policy 2025 for public feedback. The policy aims to monetise content and boost cultural outreach through strategic partnerships and flexible licensing.

December 17, 2025

UCIL Donates Drone Cameras to Boost Policing and Crime Control

UCIL donated two drone cameras worth ₹3 lakh to police in Pulivendula. Police will use them to improve crime control, traffic management, and VIP security with tech.

December 17, 2025

Solapur Division Dismantles 103-Year-Old Road Overbridge in Record Time

Solapur Division of Central Railway completed dismantling a 103-year-old road overbridge in under 13 hours with minimal train disruption. This upgrade removes safety risks and speed limits on a key Mumbai-Chennai route.

December 17, 2025

Study Links Problematic Pornography Use to Anxiety and Stress Among Indian Adults

A NIMHANS study reveals that anxiety and stress are key predictors of problematic pornography use among Indian adults. Early exposure and psychological distress lead to compulsive patterns harming mental health.

December 17, 2025

Rare Female Polar Bear Adopts New Cub in Arctic – A Curious Behaviour Unveiled

In a rare event, a female polar bear in Western Hudson Bay adopted a new cub, raising two healthy youngsters. This unusual behaviour shows polar bears' strong maternal instincts and boosts the orphan cub’s survival chances.

December 17, 2025

Lok Sabha Passes SHANTI Bill to Boost Private Role in Nuclear Energy with Cap on Liability

The Lok Sabha passed the SHANTI Bill 2025 on December 17, opening India's nuclear sector to private players and capping liability at ₹3,000 crore. The Bill moves to Rajya Sabha next. Opposition raised concerns over liability limits and private participation but the government said nuclear risks and technology have changed.

December 17, 2025

Rare Polar Bear Adoption Caught on Camera in Canada

In an extraordinary sight, a mother polar bear in northern Canada adopted a cub not her own. This rare event, only the 13th in 50 years, gives hope for polar bears facing tough survival odds.

December 18, 2025

Woman Arrested for Hiding Razor Blades in Walmart Bread in Biloxi

Camille Benson, 33, was arrested after razor blades were found inside bread at two Walmart stores in Biloxi, Mississippi. Customers reported the dangerous items, leading to a swift police probe and Walmart removing all suspect bread from shelves.

December 18, 2025

Supreme Court Defers Decision on School Closure Amid Delhi's Air Pollution Crisis

The Supreme Court avoided ruling on whether primary school kids should attend school or stay home during severe air pollution in Delhi. The court cited the approaching winter break and hoped pollution will ease before classes resume.

December 18, 2025

TN Allocates ₹113 Crore for Menstrual Hygiene; No Essential Commodity Status for Sanitary Napkins

Tamil Nadu government plans ₹113.10 crore for menstrual hygiene programs despite sanitary napkins not being declared essential. Court seeks info to widen benefits.

December 17, 2025

Study Links Problematic Pornography Use to Anxiety and Stress Among Indian Adults

A NIMHANS study reveals that anxiety and stress are key predictors of problematic pornography use among Indian adults. Early exposure and psychological distress lead to compulsive patterns harming mental health.

December 18, 2025

Woman Arrested for Hiding Razor Blades in Walmart Bread in Biloxi

Camille Benson, 33, was arrested after razor blades were found inside bread at two Walmart stores in Biloxi, Mississippi. Customers reported the dangerous items, leading to a swift police probe and Walmart removing all suspect bread from shelves.

December 17, 2025

IUML Workers Booked for Vandalism and Caste Slur in Kerala Panchayat Office

Police have filed a case against IUML workers for vandalising Changarooth panchayat office and humiliating an SC leader with caste slurs after local elections.

December 17, 2025

Delhi HC Stops Pirated Software Use at Udyog Bhawan Surveillance System

Delhi High Court orders stop to pirated Mirasys software used in Udyog Bhawan’s security system. The move protects official property from illegal software misuse.

December 17, 2025

NIA Arrests Key Accused in Multi-State Illegal Arms Trafficking Case

NIA arrested Kamalkant Verma alias ‘Uncle Ji’, a main accused in a multi-State illegal arms case. The syndicate smuggled ammunition from Haryana to Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

December 18, 2025

Supreme Court Defers Decision on School Closure Amid Delhi's Air Pollution Crisis

The Supreme Court avoided ruling on whether primary school kids should attend school or stay home during severe air pollution in Delhi. The court cited the approaching winter break and hoped pollution will ease before classes resume.

December 17, 2025

New Viksit Bharat Guarantee Bill Faces Sharp Opposition in Parliament, Raising State Burden Concerns

The Viksit Bharat Guarantee Bill to repeal MGNREGA faces strong backlash in Parliament and outside. Critics warn it centralises control, raises costs for states, and weakens rural job guarantees.

December 17, 2025

MP Govt Cancels Ujjain Land Pooling Scheme After Farmer Protests

Madhya Pradesh cancels its Ujjain land pooling plan for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela after farmer protests and political pressure. The scheme affected thousands of farmers and aimed to build permanent infrastructure for 2028's event.

December 17, 2025

Maris Stella College Hosts Flori Expo to Celebrate National Farmers’ Day

Maris Stella College held Flori Expo with student projects, organic stalls, and fun contests to mark National Farmers’ Day and boost farming awareness.

December 17, 2025

Prasar Bharati Unveils Draft Content Syndication Policy 2025 for Public Feedback

Prasar Bharati has shared its draft Content Syndication Policy 2025 for public feedback. The policy aims to monetise content and boost cultural outreach through strategic partnerships and flexible licensing.

December 17, 2025

Kerala Film Festival Faces Heat Over Chairperson Resul Pookutty’s Absence

Kerala’s International Film Festival met criticism due to chairperson Resul Pookutty’s absence at the Open Forum. Organisers say he is busy and will arrive soon.

December 17, 2025

Warner Bros Picks Netflix’s $72bn Deal Over Paramount’s $108bn Bid

Warner Bros Discovery told shareholders to reject Paramount Skydance’s $108.4bn bid. Instead, the board backs Netflix’s $72bn offer for its film and streaming units. Netflix’s clearer funding and lower regulatory risk persuaded Warner Bros. The takeover fight for this Hollywood giant continues.

December 17, 2025

Mysuru Palace Flower Show 2025 to Light Up December with Floral Art and Culture

The Mysuru Palace Flower Show 2025 runs from December 21 to 31. See 25,000 flower pots, grand floral creations, cultural shows, and eco-friendly celebrations. This 10-day festival blends art, heritage, and nature, attracting tourists for Christmas and New Year fun.

December 18, 2025

Russian Intelligence Targets Belgium Over €185bn Frozen Assets Amid EU Funding Debate for Ukraine

Russian intelligence is pressuring Belgian politicians and finance leaders to block EU plans using €185bn frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine. EU leaders debate a €90bn loan to support Kyiv’s war effort through 2027. Belgium demands legal safeguards amid threats to Euroclear executives and politicians.

December 17, 2025

Trump Orders Total Blockade on Venezuelan Oil, Raising Global Market Concerns

Donald Trump has ordered a full blockade of Venezuelan oil tankers, escalating tensions with Maduro’s government. The US military presence in the region grows as oil prices jump globally.

December 17, 2025

EU to Decide on Using €210bn Frozen Russian Assets to Fund Ukraine

EU leaders meet Thursday to decide if they will use €210bn Russian frozen assets to fund Ukraine. The plan includes a €90bn loan, repayable if Russia pays reparations. Belgium opposes, fearing legal risks. Ukraine urgently needs funds to avoid bankruptcy amid stalled US aid and economic pressure.

December 17, 2025

Bondi Attack Suspects Lived Quietly in Davao City for 4 Weeks, No Proof of Terror Training

The Bondi terror suspects, Sajid and Naveed Akram, stayed mostly inside a Davao City hotel for a month, avoiding contact. Philippine officials found no evidence they trained with Islamist militant groups during their November visit.

December 17, 2025

MP Govt Cancels Ujjain Land Pooling Scheme After Farmer Protests

Madhya Pradesh cancels its Ujjain land pooling plan for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela after farmer protests and political pressure. The scheme affected thousands of farmers and aimed to build permanent infrastructure for 2028's event.

December 17, 2025

Maris Stella College Hosts Flori Expo to Celebrate National Farmers’ Day

Maris Stella College held Flori Expo with student projects, organic stalls, and fun contests to mark National Farmers’ Day and boost farming awareness.

December 17, 2025

Karnataka HC Orders Railways Not to Cut Trees Without Permission at Cantonment Railway Colony

Karnataka High Court stops Railways from cutting trees at Bengaluru's Cantonment Railway Colony. The decision follows a PIL challenging state’s withdrawal of biodiversity site status.

December 17, 2025

Pilots Allege Corruption in Civil Aviation Ministry Amid IndiGo Flight Chaos

Pilot bodies accused the DGCA and Civil Aviation Ministry of deep corruption at a parliamentary panel meeting. Over 5,000 IndiGo flights were canceled since December, affecting 12.5 lakh passengers. The panel has called for proof and launched an inquiry into the crisis.