January 1, 2026

Marathi Groups Demand 80% Job Reservation, Marathi Candidates in Mumbai Elections

Over a dozen Marathi socio-cultural organizations released the 'Marathinama' manifesto demanding 80% job reservation for Maharashtra domiciles and Marathi candidates in upcoming Mumbai municipal elections. They criticized Congress for a separate north Indian manifesto and seek political support for Marathi rights.

January 1, 2026

APERC Approves ₹4,498 Crore Net True-Up Charges; DISCOMs to Claim From Govt

APERC has approved ₹4,498 crore net true-up charges for Andhra Pradesh DISCOMs for FY 2019-20 to FY 2023-24. The commission asked DISCOMs to claim this from the government, shielding consumers from extra electricity costs.

January 1, 2026

Huge Fire Destroys Three-Storey Plastic Recycling Unit in Thamarassery, Kerala

A big fire broke out early Thursday at a plastic recycling factory in Thamarassery, Kozhikode. Flames took three hours to control. No one was hurt. A pickup van was lost. The cause is still under probe.

January 1, 2026

Fresh Snowfall in Kashmir Resorts Brightens New Year, Weather to Improve Today

Kashmir rings in 2026 with fresh snow at tourist spots like Gulmarg and Pahalgam. Snow fell overnight and into morning. Officials forecast better weather by evening and warn light snow or rain may return on January 2.

January 1, 2026

Maharashtra's Savannas Are 750 Years Old, Not Degraded Forests: New Study

A study uncovers Maharashtra savannas date back 750 years. Using medieval Marathi texts and traditions, it calls for conserving savannas as vital ecosystems tied to local culture.

January 1, 2026

Government Hikes Tobacco Duty, Shares of Godfrey Phillips and ITC Fall Sharply

From February 1, the government will charge higher excise and health cess on tobacco and pan masala. Shares of Godfrey Phillips dropped 10%, ITC down 6.11% on BSE following the announcement.

January 1, 2026

Hyderabad Records 5% Drop in Drunk Driving Cases on New Year’s Eve with 2,731 Bookings

Hyderabad police booked 2,731 drunk drivers on New Year’s Eve, down 5% from last year. Two fatal accidents occurred but were not linked to celebrations. Special enforcement and heavy police presence helped curb violations.

January 1, 2026

UAE Welcomes First Babies of 2026 at Midnight Across Emirates Hospitals

At midnight on January 1, 2026, UAE hospitals celebrated newborns including Saeed, the first baby of 2026. Families and staff shared joy as new lives began the year.

January 1, 2026

Deadly Explosion Hits Bar in Swiss Ski Resort Crans-Montana on New Year

A powerful explosion at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana kills and injures many. The blast struck just after midnight as tourists celebrated the New Year.

January 1, 2026

Opposition Charges Bias in Thane Election Nomination Rejections

Opposition parties slam returning officer for allegedly favoring Shiv Sena in Thane Municipal elections. Several nominations rejected, sparking protests and hunger strike plans.