The government has doubled IndiGo's flight cuts to 10% following operational failures and crew norm non-compliance. This punitive action aims to stabilize the airline's services and reduce passenger disruptions. IndiGo's CEO was summoned to explain the mismanagement, with further reviews planned. Other airlines saw minor adjustments to their winter schedules.

A nationwide school survey reveals alarming drug experimentation among Indian children, with initiation as early as 11 and an average age of 12.9. One in seven students has tried psychoactive substances, with opioids and cannabis prevalent. Experts warn of easy access and emotional distress driving this trend, urging early intervention and parental vigilance.

The Supreme Court clarified that while the Election Commission cannot definitively determine citizenship, it can inquire about it if doubts arise regarding voters. The apex court emphasized that Indian citizenship is a constitutional prerequisite for voting, not merely a matter of residence and age. This ruling supports the EC's stance on verifying voter eligibility.

Holiday travel plans for countless domestic flyers face disruption as IndiGo slashes 200-400 flights daily. This significant capacity cut by India's largest airline is creating a sharp demand-supply gap, making new bookings difficult and potentially leading to cancellations for existing Yuletide travel. Other airlines are operating at maximum capacity, unable to fill the void quickly.

Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu has apologized for the IndiGo passenger disruptions and vowed strict action, potentially including the CEO's removal. The probe will scrutinize the airline's operations and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation's (DGCA) oversight. The minister acknowledged passenger distress, including exorbitant surge pricing, and assured accountability.

Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of capturing the Election Commission, alleging it colludes with the ruling party to win polls and commits «vote chori.» He criticized the government's move to exclude the Chief Justice from the EC selection panel, giving the PM complete control.

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey countered Rahul Gandhi's electoral malpractice claims, stating EVMs were introduced by Rajiv Gandhi to curb irregularities. He linked Congress and regional parties' opposition to Special Intensive Revision (SIR) to «pro-Muslim» politics, citing population growth in West Bengal. Dubey also accused Congress of past «vote chori» and influencing poll body appointments.

Home Minister Amit Shah asserted that the Congress's decision to divide Vande Mataram in 1937, as a concession to the Muslim League, initiated appeasement politics that ultimately led to India's partition. He emphasized the song's role in cultural nationalism and slammed the opposition for belittling its significance.

The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission to explain why Assam voters were exempted from providing documentary proof during electoral roll revision, a requirement elsewhere. This exemption, despite concerns about illegal migrants, has been questioned. Separately, the court ruled that voting rights for persecuted minorities under the CAA can only be considered after citizenship is granted.

India, France, and the UAE are conducting a significant air combat exercise over the Arabian Sea to bolster trilateral defense cooperation and interoperability. The Indian Air Force is deploying advanced fighter jets and support aircraft, while France and the UAE will participate with their own Rafale and Mirage fleets.

Key NDA allies JDU and TDP slammed the opposition for 'double standards' on EVMs, questioning why machines are deemed faulty only after electoral losses. Shiv Sena (Shinde) pushed for lowering the voting age to 18, advocating for remote voting for migrants and simultaneous polls. Allies emphasized voter maturity and dismissed manipulation claims.

The Congress-led coalition of opposition parties is making strong demands for the reinstatement of ballot papers alongside a transformed collegium responsible for appointing election commissioners. Their criticisms target the Election Commission, claiming it has lost credibility, especially regarding electoral roll updates and those pesky model code infringements.

CBI has registered an FIR against Jai Anmol Ambani in a Rs 228 crore bank fraud case linked to Reliance Housing Finance. Searches were conducted at his residence. The agency is investigating allegations of cheating and criminal conspiracy causing wrongful loss to Union Bank of India. A second FIR targets RCFL and its officials for a Rs 57.

India is boosting its European ties, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz set to visit New Delhi soon. This engagement follows President Putin's visit and precedes the India-EU summit. Discussions will focus on trade, technology, and sustainable development, building on existing partnerships. Germany's support for Ukraine and shared concerns over the Indo-Pacific will also be key topics.

A crucial meeting is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opposition leader in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi set to select the next Chief Information Commissioner and other Information Commissioners. The Central Information Commission has been operating with a significantly reduced staff since September, with eight commissioner posts vacant. This selection process is vital for the functioning of the CIC.

The Supreme Court has mandated all states to provide robust security for booth-level officers during voter enumeration, warning of severe action against any threats or obstructions. The court emphasized that non-cooperation with the Election Commission's work is a serious matter, extending beyond West Bengal to all states, and stressed the need for BLOs' safety to prevent anarchy.

US President Trump's threat of new rice tariffs is unlikely to significantly impact India, as exports to the US are a small fraction of global sales and already face high duties. Experts suggest this is a negotiation tactic amid ongoing trade deal talks, with India aiming to lift existing US tariffs.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted in Rajya Sabha that the division of 'Vande Mataram' for appeasement politics fueled India's partition. He emphasised the song's enduring relevance in fostering cultural nationalism and driving the nation towards a developed future. Shah criticised the opposition for linking the debate to West Bengal elections, highlighting the song's historical significance during the freedom struggle.

Advocate Rakesh Kishore reported an attack at Karkardooma Court. He stated 100-150 individuals assaulted him with slippers. They cited his previous shoe-hurling incident against former CJI B R Gavai. Kishore also mentioned they accused Gavai of insulting Sanatan Dharma. A video of the incident is circulating online. Kishore's license was suspended pending inquiry.

Aviation authorities have slashed IndiGo's winter flight schedule by 10% following widespread passenger disruptions. The airline, which previously faced a 5% cut, will now operate significantly fewer flights due to internal mismanagement of crew rosters and inadequate communication. This move aims to stabilize operations and reduce cancellations, with IndiGo submitting a revised schedule soon.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Dr Bilal Naseer Malla for allegedly destroying evidence and harbouring a deceased accused in connection with the Red Fort car blast. This marks the eighth arrest in the case, which is being investigated as a terrorist strike linked to a Jaish-e-Mohammed module.

Prime Minister Modi declared India is in a «Reform Express» phase, prioritising citizen well-being and ease of life alongside business. He urged MPs to address ground-level issues, aiming to simplify governance by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and paperwork. The PM also voiced concern over IndiGo's flight disruptions, emphasizing that system improvements shouldn't inconvenience the public.

Rajya Sabha session on Vande Mataram's 150 years turned combative as Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge accused BJP's predecessors of working for the British. Home minister Amit Shah rejected claims of political timing, urging members to view the song's significance beyond elections.

Jake Chasan and Will Conte are MBA candidates at Stanford Graduate School of Business and former investment bankers at Goldman Sachs. They recently completed research on pharmaceutical supply chain resilience under the guidance of Stanford faculty Scott Brady (MS ‘00), Brett Jordan (MBA ‘16), and Garth Saloner (MS ‘81, PhD ‘82).

The BJP has sharply criticised Telangana CM Revanth Reddy, accusing the Congress government of failing to fulfill poll promises and resorting to authoritarianism. The party alleged arrests followed a social media poster criticising the CM's «two-year failure,» highlighting corruption and misgovernance. Congress defended its record, citing financial challenges and commitment to guarantees.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed that rules must aid, not harass the public, amidst IndiGo's ongoing flight crisis. The airline's operational issues stem from new pilot rest rules, impacting thousands of passengers. Union minister Kiren Rijiju conveyed the PM's concern, emphasising passenger convenience and urging MPs to focus on public-centric reforms.