Times of India

Extreme weather events in 2025 inflicted over $122 billion in global damages, with India and Pakistan's devastating monsoon floods alone costing $5.6 billion and claiming 1,860 lives. While the US faced the highest financial toll from wildfires, poorer nations bore a disproportionate human cost. Experts warn continued fossil fuel use fuels this escalating crisis.

US President Donald Trump asserted that any Ukraine-Russia peace deal requires his approval, ahead of talks with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Trump expressed skepticism about Zelenskyy's peace proposal, emphasizing his ultimate decision-making power. He anticipates constructive discussions with both Zelenskyy and Putin, while also confirming meetings with Israeli PM Netanyahu.

Ranveer Singh's 'Dhurandhar' has shattered box office records, crossing Rs 1000 crore worldwide in just 22 days. The film's impressive run, bolstered by strong overseas collections, makes it the ninth Indian film to achieve this feat and the first of 2025. Despite an 'A' rating, its success is a significant achievement.

A shocking incident unfolded in Kanpur where a woman, Veerangana, allegedly attacked her husband, Ravishankar Savita, with an axe multiple times following a drunken argument. Their young son was present during the brutal altercation. Veerangana was apprehended by authorities after initially reporting an accident. Investigators are continuing their probe into the violent domestic dispute.

Ajinkya Rahane's century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 27, 2020, was a pivotal moment for Indian Test cricket. Following a humiliating defeat, Rahane's resilient innings, marked by calm determination, restored belief and set the stage for a historic series victory against Australia. His performance showcased his ability to deliver under immense pressure.

The CBI has approached the Supreme Court seeking a stay on the Delhi high court's order suspending the sentence of expelled BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the Unnao rape case. The High Court had ruled that Sengar, convicted for raping a minor, was wrongly classified as a public servant.

A Class 10 student died by suicide after allegedly being reprimanded by teachers and the principal at a Greater Noida West school for using AI on her mobile phone during pre-Board exams. Her father has filed a police complaint accusing the school of abetment to suicide and mental harassment.

'Hindu's killing a matter of grave concern'

After two decades of battling a tarnished reputation, a 72-year-old retired CISF officer has won a decisive victory, as the Delhi High Court exonerates him from long-standing sexual harassment allegations.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a young cricketer, made headlines in the past year. He received the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, India's highest civilian honor for young achievers. Sooryavanshi broke several cricket records, including the youngest player to score a century in List A cricket. He also achieved a T20 century at a young age.

Resident doctors in Himachal Pradesh have launched an indefinite strike, demanding the reinstatement of a doctor sacked for assaulting a patient. Despite a promise of a fresh inquiry, doctors deem the termination unjust, citing a lack of consideration for the doctor's perspective. The protest has disrupted routine medical services across the state.

Patrick Mahomes' 15 and the Mahomies Foundation is making a significant community impact, with partner Youth Volunteer Corps reporting over 92,000 volunteer hours and $3.2 million in community benefit. Brittany Mahomes actively supports these efforts, highlighting the foundation's growing influence beyond football. The foundation's initiatives, like Read for 15 and Volunteer for 15, foster positive development in young people.

India has introduced quality standards for incense sticks, prohibiting harmful insecticidal chemicals and synthetic fragrance intermediates. These new norms, aimed at improving safety and sustainability, classify agarbattis and set requirements for raw materials and burning quality. The voluntary standard, IS 19412:2025, seeks to protect public health and the environment from potentially hazardous substances.

Government prepares for strong action against IndiGo after a major schedule collapse. A DGCA report has been submitted to the civil aviation ministry. This report details the reasons behind the widespread flight disruptions. The government aims to ensure IndiGo improves its operations. Steep fines and regulatory scrutiny are anticipated for the airline and some officials.

India is determined to bring back all fugitives wanted for prosecution. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed ongoing talks with multiple governments for extradition. Delays in cases like Vijay Mallya and Lalit Modi are due to complex legalities. India remains committed to ensuring these individuals face trial in Indian courts.

Amidst persecution, Bangladesh Minority Janta Party (BMJP) is set to contest 91 seats in the upcoming polls, targeting Hindu and minority votes. The party president seeks alliances with mainstream parties like BNP to ensure minority safety and urges India to shift its support from Awami League to champion the cause of persecuted Hindus.

President Murmu honored 20 young achievers with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar for their bravery, social service, and talent. Stories like Shavan Singh's support for soldiers and Vansh Tayal's care for an abandoned child highlight remarkable courage and compassion. The awards celebrated exceptional achievements across various fields, inspiring a nation.

Uttar Pradesh faces a significant challenge with 2.89 crore voters deemed 'uncollectable' during a special revision. This includes those who have shifted, passed away, or are untraceable. Lucknow alone saw 12 lakh voters uncollectable. The state aims for a clean electoral roll by February 2026, with draft lists due December 31, 2025.

Over 24,600 sent back from 81 countries: MEA

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a statesman and former Prime Minister, is remembered for his blend of courage, compassion, and inclusiveness. His legacy of effective, corruption-free governance and concern for the common man continues to inspire transformative changes. Vajpayee's simplicity, sensitivity, and poetic nature endeared him to all, leaving an indelible mark on India's democratic journey.