India prioritizes its own assessments for environmental policy over external global rankings on pollution and climate resilience. The Environment Ministry stated it doesn't recognize foreign reports like the Global Climate Risk Index or IQAir's air quality rankings as a basis for domestic policy. Instead, the nation relies on its own initiatives like 'Swachh Vayu Survekshan' for evaluating progress.

Textiles, apparel, and hospitality are poised for significant job growth by 2030, fueled by increased investment, a new report reveals. While manufacturing and services will also contribute, the focus is on boosting stable, salaried positions. The think tank urges a strategic approach, emphasizing skill development and addressing the informal sector's dominance to enhance labor absorption and drive economic expansion.

The Election Commission has adjusted the special intensive revision schedule for poll rolls in several states and a Union Territory. New deadlines for submitting enumeration forms and publishing draft electoral rolls have been set, with final rolls expected in February 2026. This revision aims to ensure all eligible voters are included.

Prime Minister Modi and President Trump held a productive call, reviewing the robust India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with growing bilateral cooperation and discussed enhancing trade, critical technologies, energy, and defense. They also committed to collaborating on regional and global issues, reinforcing their commitment to a deepening strategic alliance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a four-day visit to Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman from December 15-18. The trip aims to strengthen bilateral ties, explore new collaborations, and discuss regional issues, marking significant anniversaries in diplomatic relations with Jordan and Oman.

A court has sentenced one person to death and nine others to life imprisonment for a murder during communal violence in Maharajganj last year. The violence erupted during a Durga idol immersion procession, leading to the fatal shooting of 21-year-old Ramgopal Mishra. The incident triggered widespread tension and required significant police intervention to restore order.

Goa nightclub co-owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra have been detained in Phuket, Thailand, and are being deported to India for investigation into a deadly fire that killed 25 people. Indian authorities coordinated the operation after the brothers fled the country shortly after the blaze, with a police team now in Thailand to take them into custody upon their return.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the assault on vendors selling non-veg food at a Gita recital event, stating such intimidation won't be tolerated in the state. She criticized the BJP for attempting to import communal division and questioned the need for public religious events for political mobilization.

The Indian Coast Guard apprehended a Pakistani fishing boat with 11 crew members for illegally operating within Indian waters. This decisive action underscores India's commitment to protecting its maritime frontiers and upholding international maritime law. The operation highlights the Coast Guard's sustained vigilance and proactive approach to national maritime security.

Goa police informed a Delhi court that nightclub co-owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra misled investigators and showed no cooperation after the deadly fire that killed 25. The brothers, who fled to Thailand, are seeking anticipatory bail, but police argue their actions disentitle them to such protection. The investigation into the blaze continues.

Speeding remains the primary killer on Indian roads, causing nearly 70% of the 1.24 lakh road deaths in 2024. Non-usage of helmets and seatbelts also contributed significantly to fatalities. States like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh reported alarmingly high numbers of speed-related deaths, highlighting a persistent challenge in road safety.

Rahul Gandhi accused Home Minister Amit Shah of appearing nervous and using foul language during his Lok Sabha speech on electoral reforms. Gandhi challenged Shah to a debate on his press conference allegations, but Shah stated Parliament would not function according to Gandhi's wishes.

BJP MP Anurag Thakur accused TMC MPs of vaping e-cigarettes in Lok Sabha, prompting Speaker Om Birla to state that no permission was granted and strict action would be taken if confirmed. The Speaker urged members to maintain decorum and assured action upon a formal written complaint.

A parliamentary exchange saw Congress MP Jairam Ramesh present Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with Maniben Patel's diary. Ramesh stated the diary entries do not support Singh's recent claim regarding Jawaharlal Nehru and the Babri Masjid. Singh indicated he had an English version. The incident follows Singh's remarks in Gujarat, which Congress has challenged, citing Patel's daughter's writings.

President Droupadi Murmu commenced a two-day visit to Manipur, her first since taking office and since the ethnic conflict began. Her itinerary includes attending a polo event, offering prayers at a temple, and participating in Nupi Lan celebrations. Security has been heightened due to a militant-called shutdown.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah honored former President Pranab Mukherjee on his birth anniversary. Modi lauded Mukherjee as a «towering statesman and a scholar of exceptional depth,» highlighting his dedication and intellectual contributions to Indian democracy. Shah emphasized Mukherjee's profound constitutional understanding, stating his life and work will continue to inspire the nation's democratic path.

The Supreme Court questioned Delhi Police on invoking stringent UAPA provisions against riot accused for speeches, seeking justification for linking terror acts to their words. Justices sought clarity on how Section 15, pertaining to terrorist acts, applies when arms weren't directly used by the accused, who have been jailed for over five years.

A carpooling photo of Prime Minister Modi and President Putin became a talking point in the US Congress, highlighting concerns over the Trump administration's India policy. Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove criticized past actions, stating that coercive partnerships damage crucial alliances. She emphasized the urgent need to mend the US-India partnership for mutual prosperity and global leadership.

Slams Cutting Of 40 Trees For Access Road To BJP Office

In a significant move, the DGCA has formed an eight-member team to daily monitor IndiGo's operations, including flights and crew availability, following widespread cancellations. Two officials will track cancellations, refunds, and compensation, while two pilots will be stationed at the airline's Gurgaon office. This comes as IndiGo scrapped 25% of its domestic flights from December 1-9, causing airport chaos.

Specialised tribunals, designed for swift justice, are overwhelmed by over 5.24 lakh pending cases, primarily due to significant member vacancies. Debt Recovery Tribunals lead with 2.5 lakh cases. Seven tribunals lack chairpersons, and 18% of member posts are unfilled, hindering efficient case resolution despite government efforts and technological adoption.

Speeding remains the primary killer on Indian roads, responsible for nearly 70% of the 1.2 lakh road deaths in 2024. Non-usage of helmets and seatbelts also contributed significantly to fatalities. Despite some dips, these dangerous behaviors continue to pose a major challenge to road safety across the nation.

US trade representative Jamieson Greer highlighted India's «best-ever» offers in ongoing trade talks, calling the nation a «tough nut to crack» due to resistance on certain agricultural imports. Senior US officials are in New Delhi to advance negotiations for a mutually beneficial trade agreement, with India now seen as a «viable alternative market» for US commodities.

President Murmu emphasized ensuring human rights for everyone, highlighting India's shift from entitlement to empowerment and charity to rights over the past decade. She noted government efforts to provide essential services like clean water, electricity, and healthcare, securing dignity for all households.

The Delhi High Court delivered a sharp critique to the Union government, condemning its complacency as IndiGo's flight cancellations wreaked havoc on travel plans and sent prices soaring. The bench voiced concerns over why no preventive measures were taken as the situation deteriorated, placing travelers in precarious positions while calling for reparations.

Jammu and Kashmir Police's State Investigation Agency (SIA) attached the property of Zahid Hussain, a Pakistan-based Hizbul Mujahideen commander, in Doda district. Hussain, who illegally crossed to Pakistan in 2000, was involved in radicalizing and recruiting youth via social media. This action is part of a broader crackdown to dismantle the terror ecosystem in the Union Territory.

A Chinese national, apprehended for visiting Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh without proper authorization, has been sent back to New Delhi. The 29-year-old tourist allegedly violated visa norms by traveling to restricted areas after arriving on a visa permitting only specific Buddhist pilgrimage sites. He was questioned for several days before his return.