Source: Trump greenlights Greenland grab: US prez names special envoy; what it means

Source: 'Local-level confusion': How Kharge's remark adds twist to Sidda vs DKS power tussle in K'taka

India and New Zealand have finalized a Free Trade Agreement, promising duty-free entry for Indian goods and $20 billion in New Zealand investments over 15 years. The pact aims to double bilateral trade within five years, though New Zealand's foreign minister expressed opposition, deeming it 'neither free nor fair'.

Source: India-NZ FTA: Faced with Trump tariffs, why new trade deals are important - explained

As Christmas approaches, the festive spirit is palpable with decorations and a shopping frenzy. The article offers a curated collection of around 60 messages for friends, family, and colleagues, categorized into short, moving, spiritual, cheerful, and reflective wishes. These greetings aim to spread joy, love, and gratitude during the holiday season, encouraging connection and cherished moments.

Source: Christmas 2025: Top 50 wishes, messages & quotes to share

Former India captain Virat Kohli is set to play for Delhi in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, marking a return to domestic cricket. His presence, alongside experienced players like Ishant Sharma and Navdeep Saini, adds significant buzz to Delhi's campaign. Kohli enters the tournament in strong ODI form, aiming to reconnect with the domestic grind and lead by example.

Source: Watch: Virat Kohli spotted at Mumbai airport; returns to Vijay Hazare Trophy

Source: 'Unavoidable': B'desh halts visa services in Delhi; move follows Dhaka's 'scale back' remark

A 20-year-old woman, Manya Patil, has died from injuries sustained in an alleged honour killing in Dharwad. Three individuals, identified as Prakash, Veeran, and Arun, have been arrested for the assault, which reportedly involved a pipe. Manya's mother-in-law, father-in-law, and sister also suffered injuries during the incident. Investigations are continuing.

Source: K'taka honour killing: Pregnant woman beaten to death over inter-caste marriage; 3 held

Spinner Amit Mishra reflects positively on his relationship with former captain MS Dhoni, refuting claims that Dhoni hindered his career. Mishra credits Dhoni for his consistent comebacks and support, recalling a specific instance where Dhoni's advice led to a game-changing five-wicket haul. He emphasizes Dhoni's understanding of the game and his role in maximizing opportunities.

Source: 'People say MS Dhoni hurt my career': Ex-India cricketer's honest take goes viral - watch

BJP emerged as the single largest party in Maharashtra's local body polls, securing 117 president posts and doubling its councillors since 2017. Despite challenges, the Mahayuti alliance, including Shiv Sena and NCP factions, celebrated a significant win, seen as a precursor to upcoming municipal corporation elections.

Source: Maharashtra local body polls: Mahayuti sweeps, Congress hits roadblocks in Vidarbha

Sanju Samson's T20 World Cup selection is lauded by former selector Srikkanth, who urges him to convert starts into big scores. Samson seized his opportunity after a period out, while Shubman Gill's struggles and injury led to his omission. Srikkanth also highlighted India's formidable batting, calling it "intimidating and devastating."

Source: 'People will forget': Ex-India captain’s blunt warning to Sanju Samson

Yuzvendra Chahal went viral after sharing an emotional post about buying a new BMW Z4 M40i with his parents, as he called their presence “the real luxury.” Retained by Punjab Kings for IPL 2026, Chahal has been out of India’s plans since 2023. He recently missed the SMAT final due to dengue and chikungunya, but the spinner promised a strong return.

Source: 'The real luxury': Chahal's post goes viral; wins hearts

Source: India-NZ FTA in trouble? Kiwi FM says will vote against deal; cites tariffs on dairy

Vivek Oberoi clarified his recent controversial comment about Shah Rukh Khan's future relevance, stating his words were taken out of context. He emphasized that while superstardom is transient, good deeds and lasting legacies endure, drawing parallels with historical figures and contemporary stars. Oberoi reiterated his deep admiration and respect for SRK, highlighting their decades-long positive relationship.

Source: Vivek Oberoi clarifies SRK stardom comment after backlash

Andrew Strauss says sacking Ben Stokes or Brendon McCullum will not solve England’s repeated Ashes failures in Australia. The former captain, England’s last Ashes winner Down Under, believes deeper structural changes are needed. With England 3-0 down again, Strauss warned against knee-jerk reactions and urged reforms to fix a long-standing system problem.

Source: Ashes: Should McCullum and Stokes be sacked? Strauss opens up

The US Embassy in India has issued a worldwide alert for H-1B and H-4 visa applicants, expanding social media screening for all nationalities. This new protocol, effective December 15, aims to prevent program abuse while allowing companies to hire top international talent. Major tech firms are advising visa workers against travel due to potential processing delays.

Source: US Visa alert: Strict H-1B, H-4 warning for applicants; Apply now to avoid delays

CBSE has rescheduled its Orientation Programme on Entrance Exams and Career Pathways for Principals and Counsellors in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Originally postponed due to rising river levels, the offline event will now take place on December 30, 2025, at Seth M. R. Jaipuria School. The initiative aims to bolster career guidance and align school practices with NEP 2020.

Source: CBSE announces orientation programme on entrance exams for faculties in UP

Source: Donroe doctrine: Is Venezuela the next Iraq, or will Xi take on Trump?

Source: Worldwide US H-1B alert: Embassy offers pointers to applicants; what has changed

Speaking on the Supreme Court's acceptance of the "new definition" of Aravalli, the minister said: "The ruling recognises and endorses the Government of India’s sustained efforts to protect the Aravalli range through scientific assessment, strict safeguards and initiatives such as the Aravalli Green Wall Project." Yadav explained that the Aravali range comprises all landforms located within 500 metres of two adjoining hills with a height of 100 metres or more.

Source: 'No new mining': Amid uproar, Centre clarifies Aravalli order; defends new definition

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif announced a 10 million Pakistani rupees cash award for each U19 player after Pakistan thrashed India by 191 runs to win the U19 Asia Cup. Sameer Minhas starred with a brilliant 172, while Pakistan’s pacers dominated. Coaches and players praised teamwork, preparation, and collective effort behind the title win.

Source: U19 Asia Cup: Pak PM Sharif announces reward for winners; each player to get PKR 10 million

Kerala's Education Minister V. Sivankutty has warned private schools against blocking Christmas celebrations, citing concerns of divisive religious models. He emphasized that schools should foster secular values and unity among students, vowing strict action against institutions promoting narrow communal interests. The minister's remarks followed reports of some schools cancelling festivities.

Source: ‘Won’t let them become communal labs’: Why Christmas row erupted in Kerala schools

England’s Ashes 2025-26 campaign ended in disaster as Australia sealed a 3-0 lead within 11 days. Michael Vaughan criticised Ben Stokes’ side for their failed approach, calling the tour “humbling.” Despite strong efforts from Stokes and Archer, England fell short chasing 435, with Australia dominating throughout and retaining the Ashes comfortably.

Source: 'England have had a cockiness': Vaughan rips into Stokes & team; Ashes hammering the trigger

AI pioneer Yann LeCun advises computer science students to prioritize foundational subjects like math and physics over trendy technology courses. He argues that a strong grasp of core principles, often found in engineering disciplines, is crucial for long-term adaptability in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Source: Meta’s most-famous employee to students: Do not study computer; focus on core subjects

Eight years ago today, Rohit Sharma etched his name in T20I history by smashing a joint-fastest century off just 35 balls against Sri Lanka in Indore. This explosive innings, featuring 12 boundaries and 10 sixes, was a highlight of his stellar career before retiring after India's 2024 T20 World Cup triumph.

Source: On this day: Rohit Sharma stamped his authority with 35-ball T20I hundred; set new record

Kolkata's new East-West Metro, the Green Line, has revolutionized city travel with its groundbreaking underwater tunnel beneath the Hooghly River. This engineering marvel drastically cuts commute times between Salt Lake and Howrah, offering comfort and reliability. The line is already transforming daily life, easing congestion and connecting twin cities like never before.

Source: Life under the river: How the east-west metro is redrawing Kolkata’s daily map