December 31, 2025

The Missing Inaugural Plaque at Victoria Public Hall and Lord Connemara’s Scandal

Victoria Public Hall’s inaugural plaque from 1888 is missing. Rumors link its absence to Governor Lord Connemara’s scandal and messy divorce. The foundation stone remains intact, but no record of the opening plaque survives.

December 31, 2025

Nine LTTE Militants Escape Madras Central Prison in 1995 Shock

On February 27, 1995, nine LTTE prisoners escaped Madras Central Prison, causing a huge security alert in Tamil Nadu. Some were caught, others died, shaking the Jayalalitha government.

December 31, 2025

US Imposes Visa Restrictions on Tonga and 20+ Countries Over Security Claims

From January 1, the US has tightened visa rules on Tonga and more than 20 nations, citing security and visa overstay concerns. The move affects travel, work, and students, drawing backlash from Pacific communities and officials.

December 31, 2025

Israel to Cancel Licenses of 37 Aid Groups in Gaza Over Registration Issues

Israel will revoke licenses of 37 aid organizations in Gaza and the West Bank for failing registration rules. Groups like ActionAid and Norwegian Refugee Council will stop operations by March. Foreign ministers from 10 nations called the move 'unacceptable' amid Gaza's worsening humanitarian crisis.

December 31, 2025

US to Reject Asylum Seekers on Health Risk Grounds Starting Dec 31, 2025

The US will enforce a new rule from December 31, 2025, that can deny asylum to migrants posing health risks. The rule was drafted in 2020 but updated to remove Covid-19-specific parts. It mainly applies during pandemics or for those with serious diseases refusing treatment.

December 31, 2025

Post Challenges DeSantis' 'Invaders' Claim on H-1B Workers Amid Florida Labour Shortages

A social media post disputes Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ call of H-1B workers as “invaders.” It highlights their key role in filling skilled jobs amid Florida’s labour shortages, backed by data showing they are a small, regulated workforce in sectors like healthcare and software.

December 31, 2025

TOI World Desk Brings Round-the-Clock Global News with Privacy Promise

TOI World Desk's expert team works nonstop to deliver accurate, fresh global news with deep insights. They promise not to share your personal data, keeping your privacy safe.

December 31, 2025

Bihar to Run Two Sugar Mills Under Cooperative Dept; PACS Procures 9.53 Lakh MT Paddy

Bihar plans to revive two sugar mills through the Cooperative Department. PACS has procured 9.53 lakh MT of paddy, paying Rs 1755 crore to farmers. The move is part of the state's Saat Nischay programme.

December 31, 2025

US Sanctions 10 Iran and Venezuela Firms Over Drone and Missile Links

The US Treasury sanctioned 10 Iranian and Venezuelan individuals and companies for aiding Iran's drone and ballistic missile programs, tightening pressure amid nuclear disputes.

December 31, 2025

India Urges Open Access to AI Infrastructure to Boost Innovation and Sustainability

India's Principal Scientific Advisor calls for wider access to AI tools and resources beyond big firms. The move aims to empower startups and researchers with foundational AI infrastructure while focusing on sustainable energy use.