Times of India

India has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Venezuela due to escalating tensions and volatility. This follows similar high-level warnings from the US, Canada, and Australia, highlighting significant security and humanitarian concerns, including crime, political instability, and shortages of essential goods.

Yuvraj Singh reveals the distinct paths of Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, nurtured under his guidance. Gill's exceptional dedication and adaptability propelled his rapid ascent, while Sharma's rise followed a structured four-year plan focused on national selection. Yuvraj highlights their contrasting styles: Sharma's fearless T20 aggression versus Gill's patient, consistent approach, creating a potent duo for Indian cricket.

An Uber driver, Rahemath Pasha, recounted his harrowing experience during the Bondi Beach mass shooting on December 14. Despite his fear, he chose to help an elderly woman and others, demonstrating profound humanity amidst the violence. His actions highlight courage and compassion in the face of tragedy.

Thalapathy Vijay's film 'Jana Nayagan' faces a censor row. The Madras High Court questioned the January 9 release date. The court postponed the hearing to January 7. Producers stated the film is eligible for a U/A certificate. The delay is administrative. The court directed a formal complaint filing regarding religious sentiments. The film's release remains uncertain.

European leaders, including Denmark's Prime Minister, jointly stated that Greenland "belongs to its people," pushing back against US President Trump's threats of a takeover. They emphasised that Arctic security as a key Nato priority, asserting that any decisions regarding Greenland must be made collectively by Denmark and Greenland, respecting sovereignty and international law.

From a winding journey that began in Sialkot to creating history in the SA20, Sikandar Raza’s career is a testament to resilience and reinvention. Overcoming personal tragedy, health scares and early international struggles, the Zimbabwe all-rounder has emerged as a global T20 freelancer, hoping his trailblazing path inspires the next generation of cricketers back home.

China has banned exports of dual-use goods to Japan, citing national security concerns amid heightened tensions over Taiwan. The move prohibits items that could enhance Japan's military power, with Beijing warning of legal consequences for violations. This action follows recent critical remarks from Japan regarding potential military intervention in the Taiwan Strait.

Haryana is preparing for India's first hydrogen-powered train. The pilot project on the Jind to Sonipat route is in its final stages. A dedicated hydrogen plant is ready to fuel the train. This advanced train will offer a longer travel distance and a silent, comfortable journey for passengers. Preparations are complete, awaiting the final launch date from higher authorities.

On January 6, 1984, Australian cricket legends Greg Chappell, Dennis Lillee, and Rod Marsh played their final Test together at the SCG. Chappell retired as Australia's highest run-scorer, Lillee as the world's leading wicket-taker, and Marsh with a then-world record for dismissals. Their simultaneous farewell marked the end of a golden era.

Indian investors navigated a turbulent 2025, with gold outperforming equities and SIP inflows soaring. As macro signals shift towards growth, 2026 demands disciplined processes over prediction. The focus is on formalizing asset allocation, scaling contributions, and protecting against behavioral mistakes to anchor wealth.

Former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan linked US trade tensions and tariffs on India to the alleged CIA-led operation in Venezuela, questioning if President Trump would kidnap India's Prime Minister. He criticised the government's silence on Venezuela and its perceived fear of the US, highlighting India's need to find alternative export markets due to the 50% US tariff.

The order was passed on a group of petitions alleging that Supreme Court norms governing sports body elections were violated and that favouritism was shown while adding names to the voters’ list released on December 25, 2025. The petitioners, including former India cricketer Kedar Jadhav, claimed that several of the newly inducted members had no link with cricket.

Kashmir's harshest winter period, Chillai Kalan, has arrived, transforming the valley into a snow-draped spectacle. This year, the region is experiencing a remarkable surge in tourism, with hotels fully booked and events planned across popular destinations. The season also brings vital snowfall for agriculture and refuge for migratory birds, while the Army maintains a proactive counter-terror posture.

The Supreme Court has criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its inaction on Delhi's worsening air quality, which remains in the 'poor' category. The court has directed the CAQM to convene an expert meeting within two weeks to identify pollution causes and long-term solutions, rejecting a request for a two-month adjournment on key measures.

Sanjay Manjrekar expressed disappointment over Virat Kohli's Test retirement, especially after Joe Root's recent century. He believes Kohli should have fought harder to overcome his lean patch in red-ball cricket, finding his decision to continue in ODIs more perplexing. Manjrekar feels Kohli's fitness suggested a comeback was possible, lamenting the loss of a great Test player.

Tech giants, including Apple, are reportedly camping out in South Korean hotels to secure crucial memory chip supplies. A global shortage, driven by AI demand, has sent RAM prices soaring, forcing companies to negotiate long-term contracts. This situation could lead to higher iPhone prices or reduced memory in future models.

Maharashtra gears up for crucial local body elections on January 15, marking the first electoral test of 2026. These polls, delayed by legal battles, will see alliances like the Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi vying for control of key urban centers, including the financially significant Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.

Stock market recommendations: Somil Mehta of Mirae Asset Sharekhan recommends buying Prestige, Great Eastern Shipping Company, and Nuvama. Let’s take a look: