National News

Millions of rural Indian women are transforming their lives and communities by becoming 'Lakhpati Didis,' surpassing Rs 1 lakh in annual household income through self-help groups. This initiative, backed by government schemes, fosters financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and community influence, making these women a significant political constituency. Their economic empowerment is reshaping rural India's landscape.

China's economic momentum is faltering as November figures show a notable dip in retail sales and manufacturing output. Additionally, fixed-asset and property investments have taken a hit, reflecting domestic struggles. With growing global barriers against China's trade surplus, the country faces an uphill battle, even as it strives to meet official growth benchmarks.

Gabrielle Union once advised a young Stephen and Ayesha Curry to break up, believing their relationship wouldn't last. During a COVID-era Instagram Live, she humorously recalled telling them to "enjoy life" and "have s*x with other people." However, Union now praises their enduring and consistent bond, calling them "unicorns" in relationships.

The Trump administration's 2025 National Security Strategy redefines global power dynamics, placing India at a critical juncture. The document emphasizes unilateral action and self-interest, urging India to contribute more to Indo-Pacific security through initiatives like the Quad, signaling a shift towards transactional alliances.

Kannada filmmaker Prakash Veer talks to The Hindu about making ‘The Devil’, starring Darshan, fondly called ‘D Boss’ by his fans.

West Bengal government issues show cause to Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar and Commissionerate of Bidhannagar City Police Mukesh Kumar

Once the bidding crossed the Rs 25 crore mark, Cameron Green surpassed the previous overseas record held by his Australia teammate Mitchell Starc, who was bought by KKR for Rs 24.75 crore at the IPL 2024 auction. Overall, Green now stands as the third costliest player in IPL auction history, behind Rishabh Pant and Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer.

Congress leader and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra mounted a strong protest in Parliament against the Centre’s proposed Bill to replace MGNREGA, warning that it weakens the legal right to employment.

Venkatesh Iyer saw a significant drop in his IPL 2026 auction price, moving from Rs 23.75 crore to Rs 7 crore after Royal Challengers Bengaluru outbid Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite a recent strong domestic performance, Iyer's previous IPL season was disappointing, leading to this substantial pay cut.

Petition alleges illegal land deals, stamp duty exemptions and misuse of public resources; names Pawar family members

Vishnu Deo Sai-led BJP Government working for the benefit of industrialists and capitalists: Opposition

Surya Dey, the Trinamool councillor of Dankuni Municipality’s Ward 18, said that while checking the lists linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, he claimed his name figured among the “dead”, though he had filled and submitted his enumeration form to the booth-level officer

The Indian Rupee hit a new record low against the US Dollar on Tuesday. This decline is driven by foreign investors selling Indian assets and stalled trade negotiations between India and the US. Traders anticipate further depreciation, with the Rupee potentially crossing 92 against the Dollar this month. The currency has seen a significant drop in recent trading sessions.

Chennai Super Kings made a significant investment at the IPL 2026 auction, securing young all-rounder Prashant Veer for Rs 14.20 crore. Veer's impressive performances in domestic tournaments caught CSK's eye, and he is expected to fill the void left by Ravindra Jadeja's departure. This strategic acquisition underscores CSK's commitment to rebuilding with promising young talent.

In a four-way battle, Jammu and Kashmir seamer Auqib Nabi was bagged by Delhi Capitals for a whopping ₹8.40 crore — 28 times his base price of ₹30 lakh. Nabi’s distant dream is to open a cricket academy in Baramulla, where he can nurture more Auqibs. Now, he will finally have the means to fulfil it.

Rajasthan Police has released the Constable (General) final exam result for District Churu, following the PET and PMT. Selected candidates must report for pre-appointment formalities, including medical and verification, on December 23, 2025, at Reserve Police Line, Churu. All original and photocopied documents, along with admit cards and photos, are required.

The chairpersons and Mayors of municipalities and corporations, respectively, will be elected at 10.30 a.m. on December 26. Deputy chairpersons of municipalities and Deputy Mayors of Corporations will be elected at 2.30 p.m. on the same day.

Goa authorities sealed The Cape Goa hotel for severe safety and regulatory violations, including fire hazards and structural issues. This action follows a nightclub blaze, prompting a statewide audit of tourism establishments. The upscale hotel, operating with a temporary license, posed an imminent threat to life and property, leading to its closure until compliance.