Year‑end smartphone discounts in India as Samsung Galaxy S26 launch leaks emerge

Consensus: Indian retailers and e‑commerce platforms are offering significant year‑end discounts on current smartphone models — notably Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 FE, multiple iPhone models and OnePlus devices — while separate leaks point to an imminent Samsung Galaxy S26 series launch with early pricing and feature details. • Price cuts reported: India Today documents Samsung Galaxy S24 FE discounts up to Rs 28,000 and Samsung Galaxy S24 reductions up to Rs 40,000; India Today and Times of India list steep markdowns on iPhone models (iPhone 13, 15, 16, 17 Pro) and OnePlus 13 during December sales and exchange/bank offers.

Kerala Governor criticises Supreme Court intervention in selection of university vice‑chancellors; Kerala High Court issues separate orders on affiliation, enrolment and KELTRON subsidiaries

Consensus: The Kerala Governor, days after the Supreme Court asked a panel to recommend vice‑chancellors for two state universities, publicly criticised the court’s intervention as judicial overreach and said institutions must know and respect their limits in a democracy. • Context: The Supreme Court made the request for a committee to recommend VCs amid a reported administrative deadlock in the universities; several outlets describe the order as the judiciary stepping into the VC‑appointment process.

High Courts Reinforce Procedural Thresholds and Court Control in Arbitration-Related Disputes

Meghalaya High Court: A non‑signatory, non‑existent LLP cannot claim protection under the 'group of companies' doctrine to invoke arbitration. • Delhi High Court: Once arbitrability and existence of an arbitration clause are decided under Section 8 of the Arbitration & Conciliation Act, the same question cannot be re‑agitated under Section 11.

Delhi High Court directs Centre to consider district court lawyers' objections to draft Advocates Protection Bill; asks for guidelines on empanelment and engagement of government counsel within three months

Consensus: The Delhi High Court directed the Union government to consider objections raised by district court lawyers to the draft Advocates Protection Bill and asked the Centre to issue guidelines for engagement of government counsel within three months. • Union government response: The Centre told the court it will frame a policy for empanelment of government lawyers and undertake steps to regulate engagement of panel counsel.

Shooting at Brown University in Providence kills two, injures several; manhunt and investigation under way

Consensus: On 14 December 2025 a shooting on the Brown University campus in Providence, Rhode Island, left at least two people dead and multiple others wounded during final‑exam period; law enforcement launched a manhunt and investigators asked the public for footage and information. • Consensus: Investigators — with assistance from federal authorities — released video images of a possible suspect, and emergency services treated and transported the injured to local hospitals.

PM Modi awarded Ethiopia's highest honour in Addis Ababa; dedicates it to the people of India

Consensus: On 16 December 2025 in Addis Ababa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Ethiopia’s highest civilian honour — reported as the 'Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia' — by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed; Modi dedicated the award to the people of India and addressed the Ethiopian Parliament. • Consensus: Indian and Ethiopian leaders highlighted closer ties, describing India and Ethiopia as partners in regional peace, security and connectivity; media coverage noted a warm reception and a parliamentary address in which Modi said he felt 'at home'.

BJP names Piyush Goyal as in-charge for 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls; party signals focus on stronger NDA and seat-sharing with AIADMK

Consensus: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed senior leader Piyush Goyal as its election in-charge for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections slated for 2026. • Consensus: The appointment tasks Goyal with leading BJP preparations in Tamil Nadu, including steering seat‑sharing talks with ally AIADMK.

Delhi's air stays 'very poor' after slight improvement; GRAP‑III curbs revoked, Stage I–II intensified

Consensus: On 26 November 2025 Delhi’s air showed a small improvement in particulate pollution but remained in the 'very poor'/toxic category (AQI reported around 328–350); authorities revoked GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) Stage‑III restrictions while keeping and intensifying Stage‑I and II measures. • Delhi government actions: GRAP‑III curbs including 50% mandatory WFH for offices and hybrid schooling were discontinued; restrictions under Stage‑I and II (vehicular controls, older vehicle bans, fuel/PUL checks and other curbs) remain in force and were to be intensified, per city government notices reported by multiple outlets.

CSK’s youth-first auction moves prompt debate over MS Dhoni’s future

Consensus: Chennai Super Kings’ activity at the IPL 2026 auction/trading window — including a trade for Sanju Samson and a clear tilt toward younger players — has been widely reported and interpreted as a move toward squad transition that raises questions about captain MS Dhoni’s playing future. • What sources agree on: CSK invested in youth at the December 2025 auction period; Matheesha Pathirana posted an emotional farewell message to Chennai; several former teammates and commentators publicly reacted to the team’s direction and Dhoni’s possible next steps.

Congress demands Modi, Shah resign after court grants relief to Rahul and Sonia in National Herald case

Consensus: A court granted legal relief to Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi in the National Herald case; multiple outlets report immediate political fallout. • Congress accused the Modi government of illegality following the court order and demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.

New pilot fatigue (FDTL) norms trigger IndiGo cancellations, regulatory exemptions and court challenges

Consensus: In December 2025 India rolled out stricter flight duty time limits (FDTL) for pilots and cabin crew; implementation prompted widespread operational disruption—most notably IndiGo cancelled nearly 5,000 flights at the peak—and regulatory action including temporary exemptions and court petitions. • Consensus: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has granted time‑limited relaxations to some carriers, said these relaxations will end within six months, and told the Delhi High Court that IndiGo will comply with the new duty norms by February 10, 2026.

MIT professor Nuno Loureiro shot dead at his Brookline home; homicide probe under way

Consensus: MIT professor Nuno Loureiro was shot at his home in the Boston area and later died of his injuries; local police have opened a homicide investigation. • Incident location: Most reports identify Brookline, Massachusetts, as the site of the shooting; one outlet refers more broadly to Boston.

MEA summons Bangladesh high commissioner over security threat to Indian mission in Dhaka

Consensus: On December 17, 2025, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner M. Riaz Hamidullah in New Delhi to raise security concerns after a threat was received against the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and to seek assurances for the safety of mission staff and premises. • Context agreed by multiple outlets: Indian reports link the summons to public anti‑India rhetoric by National Citizen Party leader Hasnat Abdullah, whose remarks — reported as threatening to isolate India’s Northeast and offer refuge to separatists if Bangladesh were destabilised — prompted Indian concern for its mission’s security.

Saregama India to invest ₹325 crore in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Bhansali Productions

Consensus: Saregama India will invest ₹325 crore in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Bhansali Productions (Bhansali’s studio), according to multiple Indian reports. • Deal advisers: Legal firms Khaitan and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM) are reported to have guided the transaction.

West Bengal SIR: EC publishes draft rolls, over 58 lakh names removed and large-scale re‑verification ordered

Consensus: The Election Commission of India (EC) released draft electoral rolls for West Bengal after the SIR (Special Summary Revision) exercise and published a list showing that over 58 lakh names have been deleted from the draft rolls. • Consensus: The EC has flagged large numbers of entries for re‑verification because of anomalies — including suspected duplicate records, mismatched parental/father names, parental age gaps under 15 years, deaths, migration and non‑submission of enumeration forms.

Mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on 14 December 2025 leaves multiple dead; one suspect linked to Hyderabad

Consensus: On 14 December 2025 gunmen opened fire at Bondi Beach, Sydney, causing multiple fatalities and injuries; Australian police mounted a large response, arrested at least one suspect and shot dead another. • Consensus: One of the men identified by police as involved — named in Indian media as Sajid Akram — has Hyderabad roots and emigrated to Australia in the late 1990s; Telangana police say he had limited contact with family and no prior criminal record.

Prithviraj Chavan's 'Operation Sindoor' remarks spark BJP backlash; he refuses to apologise

Consensus: Former Maharashtra chief minister and Union minister Prithviraj Chavan said in public remarks on December 17, 2025 that India was 'fully defeated on day 1' of 'Operation Sindoor' and that the Air Force was 'completely grounded'; his comments drew immediate criticism. • BJP reaction: The Bharatiya Janata Party accused Chavan and the Congress of denigrating the armed forces, saying the remarks were irresponsible and politically motivated.

Lamborghini Urus filmed at 250 km/h on Bandra-Worli Sea Link; vehicle seized by Worli police

A video circulating online shows a Lamborghini Urus being driven at about 250 km/h on Mumbai's Bandra–Worli Sea Link, where the posted speed limit is 80 km/h. • Worli police located and seized the vehicle after identifying it from the footage; the car's registration is reported as Haryana HR 70 F 1945.

Bengaluru woman booked for stalking police inspector after sending love letter written in blood

Consensus: A woman in Bengaluru was booked after a city police inspector filed a complaint alleging she stalked him, repeatedly contacted him and sent a love letter reportedly written in her blood; police registered a case and are investigating (reported by Hindustan Times and NDTV). • Disagreements / variations: Both outlets report the same core facts. NDTV adds that the inspector initially treated the calls as a prank and that the woman made suicide threats; Hindustan Times focuses on the harassment complaint and the letter written in blood.

ED arrests former Chhattisgarh official Soumya/Saumya Chaurasia in liquor-scam probe

Consensus: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Soumya/Saumya Chaurasia on 17 December 2025 in connection with its money‑laundering investigation into the Chhattisgarh liquor scam. • The arrested official served in the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister’s Office during the Bhupesh Baghel government; the probe links alleged irregularities in the state's liquor policy and related transactions.

White House chief Susie Wiles says Trump has an 'alcoholic's personality' in Vanity Fair profile; President defends her

Consensus: In a Vanity Fair profile published this week, White House chief of staff Susie Wiles described President Donald Trump as having an "alcoholic's personality" — a phrase used to convey a driven, compulsive style despite Trump being a teetotaler — and made critical comments about Senator J.D. Vance and others. • The remarks, reported across US and international outlets, also included candid anecdotes about Trump's management style and internal White House disagreements; the profile prompted broad media coverage and debate over the president's temperament.

Mumbai Police add cheating charge against Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra in Rs 60.48 crore Best Deal TV dispute; couple deny allegations

Consensus: Mumbai Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has escalated charges against actors Shilpa Shetty Kundra and her husband Raj Kundra to cheating under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code in a Rs 60.48 crore loan‑cum‑investment dispute linked to their former company Best Deal TV. • Consensus: The couple deny the criminal allegations, say they are cooperating with authorities and have filed a petition in the Bombay High Court seeking quashing of the FIR.

Dense fog and smog across northern India disrupt flights; Civil Aviation Ministry issues heavy‑fog alert

Consensus: From Dec 15–17, 2025, persistent dense fog and poor air quality across Delhi and parts of northern India (including Rajasthan) sharply reduced visibility and disrupted flight operations. • Airports affected: Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Delhi saw large-scale cancellations, delays and diversions; Bengaluru and Hyderabad also reported delays/cancellations linked to low visibility and knock‑on effects.

Punjab & Haryana High Court cancels magistrate's bail to her relative, hears related lawyer and police conduct matters

Consensus: The Punjab & Haryana High Court set aside bail granted by a magistrate to a person related to her, finding the order vitiated by bias-in-law and forum‑shopping; the bench emphasised that forum hunting must be checked. • Consensus: In a separate plea, the High Court declined to quash an FIR and refused interim relief to a lawyer accused of impersonating a judge before traffic police.

Bollywood's Dhurandhar depicts Lyari gangland; Pakistan objects and announces rival film 'Mera Lyari'

Consensus: A Bollywood film titled Dhurandhar, released/promoted in mid‑December 2025, dramatizes the Karachi neighbourhood of Lyari and draws on real‑life gangland figures including Rehman Dakait; Indian coverage details its cast, storyline and production. • Production details reported: Filmmakers recreated Lyari sets in Bangkok, deploying about 500 workers over 20 days to shoot the city sequences.

Donald Trump sues BBC for defamation over edited January 6 speech broadcast

Consensus: Former US president Donald Trump filed a defamation lawsuit in a US court alleging the BBC intentionally edited his January 6, 2021 speech so as to misrepresent him; the suit seeks multi‑billion dollar damages and the BBC says it will defend itself. • What the suit alleges: Trump says a BBC broadcast selectively cut his remarks from the January 6 rally near the US Capitol and presented them out of context, damaging his reputation; some reports quote language in the filing accusing the broadcaster of acting "intentionally, maliciously."

Widespread vacancies in pollution control boards — about 45% posts vacant; CPCB 16.28% vacancies

Consensus: Government data and multiple Indian outlets report large-scale staffing gaps in pollution control bodies — roughly 45% of posts in state pollution control boards are vacant, while the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has 16.28% vacancies. • The vacancies cover technical and administrative posts at both state pollution control boards and the CPCB, reducing on-ground enforcement capacity, according to the reports.

Government to divest up to 3% stake in Indian Overseas Bank

Consensus: The Government of India will sell up to 3% of its equity stake in Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), a move reported by The Hindu BusinessLine. • Purpose: The divestment is presented as part of the government's broader strategy to gradually reduce its holdings in public sector banks, improve liquidity and widen public shareholding.

Gold and silver hit record highs; silver futures surge to ₹2.05 lakh/kg as traders watch US inflation data

Consensus: Both gold and silver have risen to record levels this week on global demand, with silver futures on Indian exchanges touching a record ₹2.05 lakh per kg and silver breaching $66/ounce in overseas markets. • Consensus: Analysts and traders say the run has been driven by safe‑haven buying, macro uncertainty and positioning ahead of key US inflation data.

Director Rob Reiner and wife Michele Singer found dead at Los Angeles home; son arrested and charged

Consensus: Veteran Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer, were found dead at their Los Angeles residence on December 15, 2025; Los Angeles Police Department treating the deaths as an apparent homicide. • Consensus: Rob Reiner and Michele Singer were pronounced dead at the scene; initial reports and law-enforcement statements indicate injuries consistent with a stabbing.

Centre denies censor exemption to 19 films at IFFK 2025; Kerala government says it will screen them

Consensus: The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting denied censor-exemption/clearance for 19 films scheduled for the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) in mid-December 2025. • Affected titles include the 100-year-old Russian classic Battleship Potemkin, three films by a Palestinian filmmaker and other international entries (including Spanish titles); four of the 19 films were later granted clearance by the Centre.

Sensex and Nifty volatile on Dec 15, 2025; IndiGo leads gains as FII outflows, India–US trade talks and weak rupee weigh

Consensus: On December 15, 2025, benchmark indices were volatile — Sensex fell nearly 240 points at one stage and the Nifty dropped below 25,800, before partial recovery; market swings were driven by foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows, concerns around India–US trade talks and currency weakness. • Market movers: InterGlobe Aviation (IndiGo) was a top Nifty 50 gainer, rising about 3% in early trade and leading intraday recoveries alongside names such as Shriram Finance and HUL.

Supreme Court transfers R.G. Kar Medical College rape-murder case to Calcutta High Court

The Supreme Court has transferred the proceedings in the R.G. Kar Medical College doctor rape-murder matter to the Calcutta High Court. • The case concerns the alleged rape and murder of a junior doctor associated with R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata.

Akshaye Khanna performs havan/vastu shanti puja at Alibaug home amid 'Dhurandhar' success

Consensus: Actor Akshaye Khanna held a religious ceremony at his Alibaug residence amid the viral success of his film Dhurandhar; video of the ritual circulated on social media. • Details: Reports (dated Dec 17, 2025) say the ceremony involved fire rites and prayers—performed at his home in Alibaug, Maharashtra—conducted by priests present at the event.

Delhi High Court: Access to electricity is part of right to life under Article 21; cannot be cut over tenant‑landlord dispute

Consensus: The Delhi High Court held that access to electricity is protected under Article 21 (right to life) of the Constitution and ordered that electricity supply cannot be disconnected on account of a tenant‑landlord dispute. • The court said denial of electricity affects basic dignity and subsistence and therefore falls within the scope of fundamental rights under Article 21.

West Bengal publishes SIR draft roll 2025 — how to check your name and steps if it’s missing

Consensus: West Bengal electoral authorities have published the SIR draft electoral roll for 2025 and made it available for public inspection; residents can check inclusion online or via published draft PDFs and must follow prescribed procedures if their names are missing or details are incorrect. • How to check: Search the draft roll on the Chief Electoral Officer (West Bengal) portal or national voter services portals using name, EPIC number or polling station details; draft-roll PDFs list voters and booth information.

Assam CM, MEA condemn reported Bangladesh remarks on India's Northeast; Dhaka envoy summoned

Consensus: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma publicly condemned remarks by one or more Bangladeshi politicians that were reported to threaten or propose isolating India’s Northeast; he called the comments baseless and dangerous and warned India would not remain silent. • Consensus: The Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Bangladesh envoy in New Delhi to register concern over the reported remarks and related security issues, including reports of threats involving the Indian High Commission in Dhaka.

Karnataka Legislative Council debates early-morning azaan noise; BJP accuses government of selective enforcement

Consensus: The Karnataka Legislative Council on Tuesday debated complaints about loud early-morning azaan from mosques, with BJP members raising the issue during the Question-and-Answer session and government ministers responding on enforcement. • What BJP says: BJP member D S Arun (and colleague Bharathi Shetty) told the council a mosque near Arun’s residence begins azaan around 4:45 am daily, breaching limits; they accused the Congress-led state government of 'appeasement' and selective application of Supreme Court noise-pollution guidelines, and said police do not act.

Cold Dharamshala aids India’s seamers as low-scoring T20Is and experimental XIs shape IND–SA series

Consensus: The third T20I at HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala, was played in cold conditions that assisted bowlers; India’s seamers used fuller, test-style lengths to restrict South Africa and produce a low-scoring contest (Indian Express, Times of India, India Today). • India has been experimenting with its playing XI across the series — previews and predicted XIs discussed possible inclusions such as Kuldeep Yadav — and key batters like Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav were under scrutiny for form (India Today, Indian Express, The Hindu).

Herbalife survey: 3 in 4 Asia‑Pacific entrepreneurs expect economic gains next year

A Herbalife‑commissioned survey reported that about 75% (three in four) entrepreneurs across the Asia‑Pacific region expect economic improvements in the coming year. • The finding is reported in PR releases published on The Hindu and The Hindu BusinessLine brandhub pages; both items relay the same Herbalife survey result.

Supreme Court delivers judgments in six matters reported by LiveLaw (2025)

Consensus: LiveLaw reported that the Supreme Court of India pronounced judgments/orders in six separate matters — Lal Chandra Ram v. State of U.P. & Ors.; Livein Aqua Solutions Pvt. Ltd. v. HDFC Bank Ltd.; Samadhan v. State of Maharashtra & Another; Dinamati Gomes v. State of Goa; Mohammadhanif Mohammadibrahim Patel & Ors. v. Pallaviben Rajendra Kumar Patel & Ors.; and North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. (NEDFI) v. M/s L. Doulo Builders and Suppliers Co. Pvt. Ltd. • Case types: The matters span criminal appeals, state prosecutions, civil/family or property disputes, and commercial/financial litigation involving a bank and a financial institution — as indicated by the party names and case captions in the LiveLaw reports.

Centre introduces VB‑G RAM G Bill in Lok Sabha to replace MGNREGA

Consensus: The central government has introduced the Viksit Bharat (VB)‑G RAM G Bill in the Lok Sabha to repeal and replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with a new rural employment law. • Key change agreed across reports: the new law guarantees 125 days of wage employment for rural households (up from MGNREGA’s 100 days) and reorganises the rural job‑guarantee framework.

Supreme Court grants bail to Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawan in DHFL bank‑fraud case; High Courts clarify bail procedures

Consensus: The Supreme Court of India granted bail to Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawan in the DHFL bank‑fraud case involving alleged frauds of about ₹57,000 crore; both brothers were released on conditions specified by the court. • LiveLaw reports the Supreme Court cautioned that deviation from the principle 'bail is the rule' could be constitutionally suspect; Bar & Bench reports the case value as ₹57,000 crore and provides the bail order details.

India summons Bangladesh envoy after threat to Indian mission linked to speech on 'Seven Sisters'

Consensus: On 16–17 Dec 2025 the Indian government summoned Bangladesh's high commissioner/envoy in New Delhi to lodge a protest and seek clarification after the Indian High Commission in Dhaka received a threat and an NCP leader made anti-India remarks referencing the 'Seven Sisters' states and offering refuge to Northeast separatists if Bangladesh were destabilised. • Who said what: Indian media (India Today) identifies the speaker as Hasnat Abdullah, leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP), and quotes his public speech threatening to 'cut off' the Seven Sisters and shelter separatists; The Hindu Business Line and other outlets report New Delhi cited security concerns about the Indian mission in Dhaka when summoning the Bangladesh high commissioner.

Bondi Beach shooters visited Philippines in month before attack; investigators say ISIS-inspired, Philippines finds no evidence of training

Consensus: Australian investigators say the Bondi Beach shooters, father and son Naveed Akram and Sajid Akram, travelled to the Philippines in November for about 28 days before the attack and were inspired by Islamic State (ISIS). • Philippine authorities, led publicly by Colonel Xerxes Trinidad, report they found no evidence the men received terrorist training during the visit and said the trip’s duration was unlikely to allow significant training.

Bengaluru pub Bastian, co-owned by Shilpa Shetty, booked after viral late‑night chaos video

Consensus: A late‑night video showing chaotic scenes at Bastian, a pub in Bengaluru co‑owned by actor Shilpa Shetty, went viral in mid‑December 2025; Bengaluru police have registered a case/FIR against the pub for allegedly operating beyond permitted hours. • Bengaluru city police booked two establishments, including Bastian, saying they remained open past licence hours; an FIR was reported filed and investigations are ongoing under local law.

20 US states sue to block Trump administration’s $100,000 H‑1B visa fee; Indian IT firms expected to be affected

Consensus: On Dec 13, 2025, California, joined by 19 other US states, filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block a Trump administration rule that would impose a $100,000 fee on H‑1B work visas; the states say the fee is unlawful and imposes an illegal burden on employers. • Consensus: The administration framed the fee as part of a broader effort to curb reliance on foreign workers and protect US jobs; supporters in Republican circles have defended the move as reforming the H‑1B programme.

Three Indian law journals issue calls for papers for upcoming issues

Consensus: Three major Indian law school journals — Indian Journal of Arbitration Law (NLU Jodhpur), National Law School of India Review (NLSIU, Bengaluru), and Journal on Labour and Employment Laws (NLIU, Bhopal) — have each issued calls for papers for upcoming volumes/issues, as reported by LiveLaw. • Each journal invites submissions from scholars, practitioners and students; each call covers the journal's established subject focus: arbitration (NLU Jodhpur), general legal scholarship (NLSIU's law review), and labour and employment law (NLIU's JLEL).

Six thalassaemia children test HIV‑positive after blood transfusions at Satna district hospital, Madhya Pradesh; state orders probe

Consensus: Children with thalassaemia who were receiving blood transfusions at the Satna district hospital in Madhya Pradesh have tested HIV‑positive; the state government has formed a panel to investigate and asked for a report within seven days. • Number discrepancy: Several outlets (The Hindu, Scroll.in and one Hindustan Times report) state six children tested positive; other reports (Indian Express and an earlier Hindustan Times piece) refer to four affected minors.

CESTAT benches clarify service-tax principles across four recent rulings

Consensus: Multiple CESTAT benches issued recent, taxpayer-impacting clarifications on service-tax liability, limitation and classification. • CESTAT Chennai: Membership and participation fees paid to foreign associations before 01.07.2012 cannot be subject to service tax.

Bombay High Court denies bail in Pune Porsche hit-and-run; flags evidence tampering

Consensus: On December 16, 2025, the Bombay High Court refused bail to the father of the minor accused in the Pune Porsche hit-and-run case and to several other co-accused, citing risk of tampering with evidence. • The court specifically flagged attempts to tamper with medical records and said such conduct 'mocks justice' for the victims; it directed that the trial proceed expeditiously and witnesses be examined promptly.

Lionel Messi completes four‑city India tour; Hyderabad hosts high‑security, high‑profile visit

Consensus: Argentine footballer Lionel Messi concluded a multi‑city India visit (Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and a stop at Anant Ambani’s Vantara in Jamnagar), meeting fans, attending events and posting a thank‑you video saying he sees a 'bright future' for football in India (sources: The Hindu, Times of India, The Hindu BusinessLine, India Today). • Hyderabad: The city prepared large public and private events for Messi, deployed heightened police security, and hosted meetings with political and civic figures; local human‑interest stories—such as a heart‑survivor tea‑stall owner and an engineer superfan—were highlighted by the press (sources: Indian Express, Hindustan Times, The Hindu).

Karnataka Congress stages protests over National Herald case and renaming of MNREGA

Consensus: Karnataka Congress leaders organised protests against the Union government, opposing what they describe as 'targeting' of party leaders in the National Herald case and protesting the Centre's move to rename MNREGA (reported in Belagavi and through planned statewide actions). • What happened: Congress legislators staged a demonstration in Belagavi with placards and slogans, and the state party announced further protests against both the National Herald matter and the proposed/announced renaming of the rural employment scheme.

Delhi University again records vacant undergraduate seats; VC supports CUET, colleges asked to share data

Consensus: Delhi University (DU) has again seen a significant number of unfilled undergraduate seats in the current admission cycle; the university vice‑chancellor has backed the use of CUET (Common University Entrance Test) for admissions and has asked constituent colleges to share seat and admission data. • Administrative response: DU leadership has sought college-level data on vacant and filled seats to review admission processes and plan remedial steps for filling vacancies.

Bombay High Court allows 73-year-old Gautam Navlakha to relocate to Delhi temporarily in Bhima Koregaon/Elgar Parishad case

Consensus: The Bombay High Court has permitted activist-accused Gautam Navlakha, 73 and currently on bail in the Bhima Koregaon/Elgar Parishad case, to relocate from Mumbai to Delhi temporarily until his trial begins. • Court observation: The bench noted Navlakha’s advanced age and told the court that a person of his age, away from family, may feel ‘lost’ or ‘uprooted’ — a point emphasised in several reports.

Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound shortlisted for 2026 Oscars Best International Feature Film

Consensus: The film Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, co‑produced by Karan Johar and featuring Ishaan Khatter, has been named on the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ shortlist for the Best International Feature Film category for the 98th Oscars (2026); it is among the Academy’s top 15 films advancing from the submission stage. • Shortlist status: Being shortlisted advances the film to the Academy’s next round of voting but is not a final Oscar nomination; the Academy will announce the official nominees at a later date.

ISRO releases RESPOND Basket 2025 and invites research proposals

ISRO on 16 December 2025 released the RESPOND Basket 2025 during the ISRO–Academia Day; the release was led by ISRO Chair Dr V. Narayanan. • The Basket lists mission-aligned research problem statements tied to ISRO’s near

Punjab rural body polls (Dec 14, 2025): 48% turnout amid clashes; repolls ordered at 16 booths, vote count under way

Punjab held elections to zila parishads and panchayat samitis on December 14, 2025; over 9,000 candidates contested across the state. • Multiple outlets report an overall voter turnout of about 48% — the lowest since 2008 for these rural body polls.

FM Nirmala Sitharaman rebuts Trump’s ‘dead economy’ jibe in Lok Sabha, cites 8.2% growth, rating upgrades and trade data

Consensus: In Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman rejected a remark by former US President Donald Trump that India is a “dead economy”, citing India’s 8.2% growth rate, recent sovereign rating upgrades and stronger trade figures as evidence the economy is growing. • She also told MPs that inequality on asset ownership is narrowing, rural India is advancing, and that global trade is being “weaponised” through tariffs — arguing India’s exports, including to the US, have risen despite tariff pressures.

Justice Yashwant Varma challenges Lok Sabha committee on burnt-cash recovery; Supreme Court issues notice

Consensus: Allahabad High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma has challenged the parliamentary handling of the burnt/unaccounted-cash recovery matter, alleging procedural lapses in the formation of a Lok Sabha committee; the Supreme Court has issued notice to Parliament on his petition. • Varma’s complaint: The judge contends the Lok Sabha Speaker constituted the committee unilaterally without involving the Rajya Sabha chairperson and has flagged defects in the committee’s procedure and jurisdiction in his petition to the Supreme Court.

Bihar Cabinet approves Saat Nischay‑3 (2025–30) with target of 1 crore jobs

Consensus: Bihar Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, approved the third phase of the state’s flagship Saat Nischay (Seven Resolves) programme to run from 2025 to 2030. • Key commitments: the programme prioritises employment generation (a stated target of one crore jobs over five years), skill development, women’s entrepreneurship, and expanded social welfare measures.

CAG audit finds under‑utilisation of strategic oil reserves; BPCL time‑chartered vessels idled causing ₹470.56 crore expenditure

Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit found significant under‑utilisation of India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPRs), with import cover falling to 4.5 days. • Audit flagged prolonged cavern vacancies, delayed commercialisation of SPR capacity and failure to commence Cabinet‑approved crude trading, raising planning and financial‑viability concerns.

Congress dominates Phase‑II Telangana Gram Panchayat polls; high turnout as final phase voting/counting underway

Consensus: Multiple outlets report the Indian National Congress and its backed candidates won or led in a majority of seats in the Phase‑II Gram Panchayat polls across Telangana, with Congress described as showing 'total dominance' and securing more than 50% of contested seats. • Turnout and schedule: Sources agree the first phase was held on 11 December (turnout ~84.28%) and the second phase on 14 December (turnout ~85.86%); reporting notes voting for the final phase is underway and counting is scheduled on the poll day.

NCLT/NCLAT issue a spate of rulings clarifying IBC claims, procedures and corporate schemes

A series of recent NCLT and NCLAT orders have clarified admissibility of claims, procedural limits and treatment of specific dues under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). • Tribunals held SEBI penalties imposed after the commencement of liquidation are not admissible as claims in insolvency; NCLAT rejected SEBI’s attempt to recover a penalty from Annies Apparel and issued notice in Reliance Capital’s plan-challenge matter.

Bomb‑threat emails prompt evacuations and searches at schools in Jalandhar and Ahmedabad

Consensus: Schools in Jalandhar (Punjab) and three schools in Ahmedabad (Gujarat) received bomb‑threat emails this week, prompting evacuations, police deployment and on‑site searches; security was tightened while inspections were carried out. • Authorities: Local police and school managements led evacuations and searches; no confirmed explosive devices were reported in initial searches, according to the reports.

Karnataka, Kerala High Courts Question ED Actions — WinZO account freeze, CCTV access and probe into alleged ED officer corruption

Consensus: Two state High Courts have recently scrutinised Enforcement Directorate (ED) conduct in separate matters — the Karnataka High Court is hearing WinZO's challenge to a ₹505 crore account freeze and has directed the ED to disclose the number of complaints and amounts underlying its action; the court also queried whether CCTV footage from raids could be handed over to WinZO for inspection with appropriate safeguards. • Consensus (continued): The Kerala High Court has issued notice on a businessman's petition seeking a court‑monitored investigation into alleged corruption by an ED officer and has sought responses from the ED and other parties named in the petition.

US President Donald Trump designates Venezuela’s government as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and orders blockade of sanctioned oil tankers

Consensus: On 17 December 2025, US President Donald Trump designated the Venezuelan government of Nicolás Maduro as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) and ordered US forces to block oil tankers subject to US sanctions from entering or leaving Venezuelan ports. • Consensus: US officials said the action targets vessels on US sanctions lists and aims to recover oil and assets Washington says were illegally taken by the Maduro government; outlets report the move is intended to escalate pressure on Caracas.

Lok Sabha passes Repealing and Amending Bill, 2025 to repeal 71 laws

Lok Sabha passed the Repealing and Amending Bill, 2025 to repeal 71 laws deemed obsolete. • The government says the measure is intended to rationalise the statute book by removing outdated or redundant enactments.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar pulls down woman's hijab at government event; video sparks political backlash and police complaint

Consensus: A video, recorded at a Bihar government event in Patna in mid‑December 2025, shows Chief Minister Nitish Kumar reaching for and removing the hijab/veil of a Muslim woman (reported as a doctor/recruit) while handing her an appointment letter; the clip circulated widely online. • Immediate reaction: Opposition parties—RJD, Congress, Samajwadi Party and some Jammu & Kashmir parties—condemned the act, calling it unacceptable; several leaders described it as offensive to the woman's modesty and faith.

Multiple violent attacks on women reported across Uttar Pradesh in mid‑December 2025; accused taken into custody

Several separate incidents of extreme violence against women were reported across Uttar Pradesh between 13–15 December 2025, including shootings, killings, beheading, rape and child murders; police have arrested or taken the accused into custody in the reported cases. • Lucknow: A man allegedly drank, assaulted and opened fire on his former partner after she refused to resume the relationship; news outlets (India Today, Hindustan Times) report the accused is in custody.

Tata Sierra priced at Rs 21.29 lakh; bookings open, deliveries from Jan 15, 2026 — comparisons with Creta, Seltos, Kushaq and rivals

Consensus: Tata Motors has opened bookings for the new Sierra, with deliveries scheduled to start from January 15, 2026, and the top-end Sierra announced at Rs 21.29 lakh (ex-showroom) — reported consistently by multiple outlets. • Market context: Media comparisons place the Sierra against compact-SUV rivals such as Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, Maruti’s Victor(s) and Tata’s other competitors (Elevate), highlighting price, space, features and mileage differences.

LiveLaw lists job openings: Principal Corporate Counsel at Cisco (Bangalore) and Assistant Manager, Data Privacy at Wipro (Bengaluru)

LiveLaw reports two corporate job vacancies in Karnataka: Cisco Systems Inc is hiring a Principal Corporate Counsel in Bangalore; Wipro Limited is hiring an Assistant Manager for its Data Privacy Program in Bengaluru. • Both items are job-post notices published on LiveLaw’s job-updates section and direct candidates to apply via the respective postings.

Clashes in Malkangiri after headless woman's body found; homes torched, internet suspended

Consensus: In Malkangiri district, Odisha, discovery of a woman's headless body triggered violent clashes between neighbouring villages; mob violence and arson followed, prompting a security response. • Violence and damage: Multiple reports say roughly 150–160+ houses were gutted or torched in and around MV‑26 and adjoining settlements; residents fled and some villages were left largely deserted.

IPL 2026 Mini-Auction: KKR leads spending; teams hunt all-rounders and fast bowlers amid Cam Green listing confusion

Consensus: The IPL 2026 mini-auction concluded with Kolkata Knight Riders entering with and spending the largest purse, multiple franchises adjusting squads — notably Chennai Super Kings seeking an overseas all‑rounder and a fast bowler to fill the Ravindra Jadeja role — and a full list of sold players published. • Cameron Green listing: Multiple outlets report Green was mistakenly registered in the specialist batters’ category due to a manager error; Green has publicly said he is fit and able to bowl (The Hindu, Indian Express, India Today).

Mid‑December Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney treated as ISIS‑inspired; single suspect charged with terrorism and multiple murders

Consensus: A mass shooting at Bondi Beach in mid‑December 2025 is being treated by Australian authorities as a terrorist incident inspired by Islamic State (ISIS), a group listed as a terrorist organisation in Australia. • Police charged an alleged shooter, identified in media reports as 24‑year‑old Naveed Akram, on December 17, 2025 with terrorism offences and 15 counts of murder.

Violence at Ludhiana Central Jail: inmates run amok, superintendent and staff injured; order restored next day

Consensus: Violence broke out at Ludhiana Central Jail on Tuesday; prisoners ran amok, injuring jail staff including Superintendent Kulwant Singh Sidhu; police were called and order was restored the following day. • Scale: The Hindu reports about 200 inmates attacked police near one of the barracks.

Second phase of Vizhinjam port development to begin in January

Consensus: Both reports state that the second phase (Phase II) of development at Vizhinjam Port, Kerala, is scheduled to begin in January 2025. • Timing detail: The Hindu reports a January start; The Hindu BusinessLine cites Minister Vasavan saying work will start in mid-January.

Meesho share surge lifts founder Vidit Aatrey into billionaire club

Consensus: Mid‑December 2025, shares of Indian e‑commerce company Meesho rallied sharply — hitting a 52‑week high and triggering a 20% upper circuit — which pushed founder Vidit Aatrey's stake-value above $1 billion on paper. • Market moves: Reports say the stock rose about 20% in a session and delivered substantial short‑term gains to investors; one Hindi outlet (Aaj Tak) says investor money doubled over seven days.

Regulator allows non‑government NPS subscribers to withdraw up to 80% and permits four pre‑retirement withdrawals

Consensus: Multiple outlets report that the pension regulator has revised National Pension System (NPS) rules so that non‑government (non‑GOVT) subscribers can withdraw up to 80% of their accumulated corpus at exit; the remaining 20% must be used to purchase an annuity. • Consensus: The rule change also permits up to four partial withdrawals before retirement for eligible non‑government subscribers.

Cab drivers protest new pickup and parking rules at Kempegowda International Airport

Consensus: On 16–17 December 2025, yellow‑board taxi and cab drivers staged protests near Kempegowda International Airport (Devanahalli) against new airport parking and pickup rules; demonstrations caused traffic disruptions on the airport road. • Drivers' position: Associations and individual drivers say the rules restrict yellow‑board vehicles from normal terminal pickup, shift passenger collection to a remote point about 1 km from the terminal (some passengers reported walking up to 1 km), and will hurt drivers' incomes and passenger convenience.

Supreme Court agrees to hear Justice Yashwant Varma's challenge to Lok Sabha inquiry panel in impeachment proceedings

Consensus: The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a petition by Justice Yashwant Varma challenging the constitution and procedures of a Lok Sabha inquiry committee formed as part of impeachment proceedings against him. • Consensus: The court has issued notices to the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha and flagged procedural lapses in how the parliamentary inquiry was constituted and carried out.

Jammu & Kashmir’s Auqib Nabi sold to Delhi Capitals for Rs 8.40 crore at IPL 2026 auction; Baramulla celebrates

Consensus: At the IPL 2026 auction, Auqib Nabi (also reported as Auqib Nabi Dar) — a cricketer from Baramulla, Jammu & Kashmir — was bought by the Delhi Capitals for Rs 8.40 crore. • Local reaction: Residents of Baramulla celebrated outside his home with music, dancing and drums; family members expressed pride, saying the bid marks a breakthrough for the player and the region.

8th Pay Commission: arrears reported to start from Jan 1, 2026; implementation timing and benefit estimates under discussion

Consensus: Two India Today pieces report that the 8th Central Pay Commission's implementation is expected soon and that arrears are being reported to be calculated from January 1, 2026. • Both reports outline anticipated salary and pension increases and discuss likely timelines and payout mechanics, but note that final figures and a formal government notification are pending.

Indian Army receives final batch of three US-made Apache AH-64E attack helicopters

Consensus: On 16 December 2025 the Indian Army received the final batch of three US-made Apache AH-64E attack helicopters; they landed at Hindon Air Force Station and are slated to join the Army's Jodhpur helicopter squadron. • Background: India had earlier received an initial batch of three Apache helicopters in July 2025; the December arrival completes this delivery tranche reported by multiple outlets.

Daily gold and silver price updates in Indian cities (Dec 15–17)

Consensus: Indian Express published daily commodity-rate updates on Dec 15, 16 and 17 reporting city-wise gold (18, 22 and 24 carat) and silver rates for major Indian centres. • Coverage: Prices were given for multiple cities including Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Bangalore, with separate listings by carat for gold and per-kg/per-10g for silver where applicable.

Complaint to Kerala DGP over viral Ayyappa parody song linking Sabarimala gold theft to CPM

A spoof/parody song set to an Ayyappa devotional tune alleging theft of Sabarimala gold has circulated widely online. • A Sabarimala devotees' group lodged a formal complaint with the Kerala DGP, asking for action over the parody for hurting religious sentiments and linking the theft to the CPI(M).

Telangana Assembly Speaker to pronounce orders on disqualification petitions against five BRS MLAs

Consensus: The Telangana Legislative Assembly Speaker will announce orders today on disqualification petitions filed against five BRS (Bharat Rashtra Samithi) MLAs; media reports say the matter concerns anti‑defection/disqualification proceedings. • Both sources report the same immediate fact and timing; there is no substantive disagreement in the available coverage about the Speaker’s planned announcement.

Owners of Goa nightclub where 25 died deported from Thailand, arrested and brought to Goa for probe

Consensus: On December 6 a fire at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in north Goa killed 25 people. Co‑owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra left for Thailand soon after the blaze. • Indian agencies contacted Thai authorities to trace the brothers; Thailand deported them and they were arrested on arrival in Delhi on December 16 and later taken to Goa in police custody for investigation.

Elon Musk crosses $600 billion net worth mark; estimates range up to $638 billion as SpaceX valued at $800 billion

Consensus: On December 17, 2025, multiple Indian outlets reported that Elon Musk’s estimated net worth surpassed $600 billion, making him the first person to reach that milestone. • Primary drivers cited were gains in Tesla equity and a large private valuation for SpaceX; India Today reported a SpaceX valuation of $800 billion and put Musk’s net worth at about $638 billion.

Filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife found dead; son arrested, Trump draws controversy with online post

Consensus: Veteran filmmaker Rob Reiner (78) and his wife were found dead at their US home; investigators believe both died of stab wounds. • Their son, Nick Reiner, has been arrested and booked in connection with the killings; reports say he was not medically cleared for a court appearance.

Bengaluru mechanic, 34, dies after heart attack amid alleged refusal of treatment and lack of help; wife later donates his eyes

Consensus: On 17 December 2025 a 34-year-old mechanic in Bengaluru suffered a heart attack, was taken to multiple hospitals and died on the road after attempts to obtain emergency care failed; his wife later donated his eyes. • Consensus: The man's wife says she took him between hospitals and on a two‑wheeler when ambulances or hospital treatment were not available; many motorists passed by without helping before one driver intervened but it was too late.

Delhi court declines to take cognisance of ED charge‑sheet in National Herald case against Sonia and Rahul Gandhi

What happened: On 16 December 2025 a Delhi court refused to take cognisance of the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) charge‑sheet in the National Herald money‑laundering complaint naming Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. • Legal reasoning: The court found procedural defects in the ED complaint and charge‑sheet, including that the prosecution was not founded on an FIR in the usual manner for such proceedings; the magistrate order directing production of the FIR copy to the Gandhis was set aside.

ED searches five premises linked to leaders of self‑styled 'Manipur State Council' over 2019 London 'independence' declaration

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at five premises linked to Yambem Biren and Narengbam Samarjit, identified by media as leaders of a self‑styled 'Manipur State Council'. • The action relates to a case arising from a 2019 press conference in London in which Biren and Samarjit declared the 'independence' of the State of Manipur from the Union of India.

Hacking group ShinyHunters claims theft of Pornhub user data, threatens to expose premium users for bitcoins

Hacking group ShinyHunters claimed it stole user data from adult website Pornhub and threatened to expose premium subscribers unless paid in bitcoins. • At least two former Pornhub customers — one in Canada and one in the United States — told Reuters the data fragments shown by the group were authentic.

Rupee hits multiple record lows amid FPI outflows and trade‑talk uncertainty; RBI intervenes to stabilise currency

Consensus: In mid‑December 2025 the Indian rupee fell to successive record lows against the US dollar — breaching the 90 and 91 marks in intra‑day trade — amid heavy foreign portfolio investor (FPI) selling, weak global risk sentiment and uncertainty over India‑US trade talks. • Markets: Reports cite several intraday peaks (90.58, 90.74, 90.87, and an intra‑day high of 91.07) and a close at fresh lows; equity markets were dragged down by foreign fund outflows and weak global cues.

Dhurandhar: Ranveer Singh’s A-rated actioner — CBFC cuts, advance bookings, box‑office surge and a sequel

Consensus: Dhurandhar, an A‑certified violent action film starring Ranveer Singh, began limited advance bookings ahead of its theatrical release; the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) trimmed violent scenes and muted expletives, setting the film’s final runtime at 214 minutes (Times of India). • Consensus (continued): Promotional activity included Ranveer performing the title track with Jasmine Sandlas and Hanumankind (India Today). Within 12 days of release the film recorded major commercial success, with outlets reporting it crossed the Rs 600 crore mark worldwide and earned about Rs 411 crore in India, breaking multiple box‑office records (Indian Express).

Bar Council of India to soon publish AIBE 20 final answer key, result, scorecard and cut-off

Consensus: The Bar Council of India (BCI) will shortly release the final answer key, result/scorecard and passing cut-off for All India Bar Examination (AIBE) 20 on its official portal (AllIndiaBarExamination.com / BCI website). • Consensus: The official announcement will include the final answer key, candidates' scores and the passing marks; candidates should check the BCI/AIBE portals to download scorecards and see cut-offs.

Himachal CM Sukhu leads Anti‑Chitta walkathon in Hamirpur, says ₹50 crore assets seized under NDPS Act

Consensus: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu led an 'anti‑chitta' (anti‑heroin) awareness walkathon in Hamirpur and announced actions against drug networks. • CM's claim: Sukhu said assets worth ₹50 crore have been seized under the NDPS Act — a figure he described as four times what was seized during the previous BJP tenure; this figure was reported by The Hindu and attributed to the CM.

Nadda defends Special Summary Revision (SIR) in Parliament; opposition calls it a diversion

Consensus: BJP president J.P. Nadda, speaking during the Winter Session of Parliament (Day 13), defended the Election Commission's Special Summary Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls as a legitimate exercise to 'purify' voter lists and insisted critics are misleading the public. • Nadda asked the Congress to introspect on the 'actual reason' for its recent electoral setbacks rather than attack the SIR, saying opposition claims aim to pacify party cadres after poll losses.

LiveLaw round-ups summarise late‑Oct–Dec 2025 judicial activity in Supreme Court and southern High Courts

Consensus: LiveLaw published a series of judicial digests and weekly/daily round‑ups (Kerala monthly digest for October 2025, weekly round‑ups for Kerala, Madras and Karnataka for Oct 27–Nov 2, 2025, a Supreme Court daily round‑up for Nov 3, 2025, and a Business Law daily round‑up for Dec 16, 2025) that collate and summarise orders, judgments and procedural developments from those benches. • Purpose: The pieces compile case citations, short summaries of notable judgments and hearing outcomes, and routine procedural updates intended for lawyers, litigants, and policy observers in India.

Apple expected to launch multiple devices in early 2026, including a foldable iPhone and AI-enabled AirPods

Consensus: Multiple India Today reports and leaks indicate Apple is planning several device launches in early 2026, including new iPhone models, a foldable iPhone, an updated iPad mini and AirPods with AI features. • Planned devices reported: iPhone 17e, iPad Mini 8 and three other devices listed in a December 15 India Today roundup as likely early-2026 launches.

Prolonged dry spell in Jammu & Kashmir strains hydropower, dents snowfall and clouds tourism rebound

Consensus: Multiple reports say Jammu & Kashmir is facing a prolonged dry spell that has reduced snowfall this season, cutting inflows to hydropower reservoirs, worsening distribution losses and weighing on tourism numbers. • Brief light snowfall in the high mountains provided only short-lived relief and did not restore regular snow cover for popular tourist sites (The Hindu Business Line).

Gujarat government bans sale of tobacco rolling papers and pre-rolled cones, citing health risks

Consensus: The Gujarat government has ordered a ban on the sale of tobacco rolling papers and pre-rolled cones across the state, citing health risks and concerns about youth addiction. • Scope: The prohibition covers loose rolling papers and ready-to-use pre-rolled cones used to roll tobacco; some reports use the colloquial term 'gogo paper' for these products.

Union Cabinet clears Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill to allow 100% FDI in insurance; Lok Sabha passes the Bill

Consensus: The Union Cabinet approved the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill to raise the foreign direct investment (FDI) cap in Indian insurance companies to 100%; the government introduced the Bill in Lok Sabha and the lower house has passed it. • Key legal changes: The Bill expands regulatory and enforcement powers for the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) — including search and seizure over intermediaries, authority to cap agent commissions, and powers to disgorge wrongful gains from insurers or intermediaries.

Chennai's L. Keerthana wins three golds at Carrom World Cup; Tamil Nadu government awards ₹1 crore

Consensus: L. Keerthana, a 22‑year‑old from Old Washermanpet, Chennai, won three gold medals at the 7th Carrom World Cup held in the Maldives. • The Tamil Nadu government has announced a cash award of ₹1 crore for Keerthana in recognition of her historic performance.

Donald Trump to address the nation from the White House on Dec 17, 2025

Consensus: All three reports say former US President Donald Trump will deliver a national address from the White House on December 17, 2025. • Focus: The White House said the speech will highlight Trump’s "historic accomplishments," with specific emphasis on tackling inflation and immigration.

Madras High Court directs Centre to frame policy to assist Indian citizens abroad with legal aid; invokes Rajadharma

Consensus: The Madras High Court has directed the Union government to frame a policy to provide legal assistance and other aid to Indian citizens working or staying abroad, describing it as the State's constitutional duty. • Consensus: The court urged the Centre to set out clear guidelines and a mechanism for consular and legal support to Indians overseas and asked the government to file its response and relevant material in the matter.

Bombay HC alarmed by toxic air; BMC issues show-cause to J Kumar over Metro Line 2B, MMRDA denies pollution

Consensus: The Bombay High Court expressed alarm about toxic air in Mumbai and sought details; the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) presented its compliance measures and future plans to control pollution. • The BMC has issued a show-cause notice to contractor M/s J Kumar, alleging violations of pollution norms at the Metro Line 2B construction site.

High‑court senior advocate posts filled: Punjab & Haryana association elects office‑bearers for 2025–26; Sikkim High Court designates five lawyers as Senior Advocates

Consensus: Two recent, separate developments in Indian high courts concern senior advocates — the Punjab & Haryana High Court Senior Advocates Association held elections for office‑bearers for the 2025–26 term, and the Sikkim High Court formally designated five lawyers as Senior Advocates. • Punjab & Haryana High Court: the Senior Advocates Association conducted elections and elected office‑bearers for the 2025–26 term (reporting by LiveLaw).

‘Study in Malaysia’ fair in Chennai to attract Indian students

Consensus: Organisers told The Hindu a ‘Study in Malaysia’ fair will be held in Chennai to promote Malaysian universities and programmes to Indian students, with multiple Malaysian institutions participating and providing information on courses, scholarships and student services. • Scope: The event is aimed at prospective undergraduate and postgraduate Indian students and will offer counselling, programme details and visa/pathway guidance from Malaysian higher-education representatives.

India ranks third in Stanford’s 2025 Global AI Vibrancy Index

Consensus: Multiple Indian and international outlets report that Stanford University's 2025 Global AI Vibrancy Tool places India third globally (behind the US and China), rising from seventh in 2024. • Stanford data (using 2024 inputs) attributes India's jump to broad gains across seven pillars — research & development, talent, economy, policy & governance, infrastructure, responsible AI and public opinion — driven by government initiatives, a growing startup ecosystem and expanding AI talent.

Nifty 50 and Nifty Bank futures at key support; market direction to depend on whether support holds (Dec 15–17, 2025)

Consensus: Across reports from Dec 15–17, 2025, Nifty 50 and Nifty Bank futures are trading near important support levels and the immediate direction will depend on whether those supports hold or break. • Common technical view is that downside may be limited if support holds; traders should watch the noted support band (around 25,900 in these analyses) for signs of further weakness or recovery.

Andhra Pradesh High Court urges TTD to use AI surveillance to curb thefts during Parakamani

Consensus: During a hearing in the Andhra Pradesh High Court, a judge observed that Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) should deploy artificial intelligence–enabled surveillance during the Parakamani ceremony to reduce the scope for thefts. • What was recommended: The court suggested use of CCTV and AI-based monitoring tools to strengthen oversight of offerings and deter or detect thefts occurring during the Parakamani process at Tirumala.

FIFA to offer $60 tickets for some 2026 World Cup matches after global fan backlash

Consensus: FIFA announced it will offer tickets priced at $60 for some matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following widespread fan criticism about earlier pricing. • The announcement is presented by FIFA as an affordability measure intended to broaden access to the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico in 2026.

Telangana moves Supreme Court to restrain Andhra Pradesh over Polavaram (PBLP) expansion

Consensus: The Telangana government has filed a petition in the Supreme Court of India seeking an order to restrain Andhra Pradesh from undertaking further expansion works on the Polavaram project (referred to in reports as PBLP). • What Telangana says: Telangana seeks judicial intervention to stop Andhra Pradesh’s proposed expansion, contending the works could affect Telangana’s interests (as stated in the petition).

OnePlus to launch OnePlus 15R (including Ace edition) and OnePlus Pad Go 2 in India on December 17, 2025

Consensus: OnePlus will hold an India launch on December 17, 2025 for two devices — the OnePlus 15R smartphone (with a separately announced Ace edition) and the OnePlus Pad Go 2 tablet; Indian outlets confirm a livestream for the event. • OnePlus 15R: multiple reports agree the phone will feature a 32 MP front (selfie) camera capable of 4K video recording; design images and pre-launch details have also been published.

Indian markets open flat-to-weak; Sensex slips ~395 pts as rupee weakness and FII selling weigh

Consensus: Indian equity indices opened flat-to-weak in early trade, with weakness attributed to global cues, a softer rupee and continued foreign institutional investor (FII) net selling. • Major indices: Reports show the Sensex fell about 395 points and the Nifty slipped below 25,910 during the early session.

Leopard kills 8-year-old in Junnar; forest department sought permission to eliminate animal, which was later captured

Consensus: An 8-year-old boy in Junnar (Pune district, Maharashtra) was killed by a leopard; this was reported as the third child fatality in the area within two months. • Consensus: Following the fatal attack, the Forest Department sought official permission to eliminate the leopard responsible for the incident.

Steve Smith ruled out of 3rd Ashes Test; Usman Khawaja recalled as Australia steady Day 1 at Adelaide

Consensus: Australia captain Steve Smith was ruled out of the 3rd Ashes Test at Adelaide Oval on health grounds; Usman Khawaja was recalled to the XI and batted at No. 4. • On Day 1, Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne stabilised the Australian innings after early wickets, helping Australia recover from a shaky start.

Lionel Messi's GOAT India Tour draws huge spectacle — Kolkata event marred by crowd chaos; West Bengal sports minister resigns

Consensus: Argentine star Lionel Messi visited India in December 2025 on a multi-city 'GOAT India Tour' (Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad) featuring public appearances, a 70-foot iron statue unveiling in Kolkata, fashion and ramp events in Mumbai, auctions of World Cup memorabilia and paid meet‑and‑greet opportunities (reports list prices up to Rs 10 lakh for a photo/handshake). • Kolkata, Dec 13, 2025: Messi unveiled the 70‑foot statue and made a Salt Lake Stadium appearance that drew large crowds; Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan was confirmed to attend the Kolkata event.

12-year-old Class 7 student dies after wall collapse at government school in Tamil Nadu

Consensus: NDTV and The News Minute report that a 12-year-old Class 7 boy died when a wall collapsed at a government school in Tamil Nadu. • What happened: The student was killed as a wall at the government school gave way; both outlets identify the victim as a Class 7 (12-year-old) pupil.

Ram Mandir Trust readies Ayodhya complex for massive pilgrim surge; plans new shrine, martyrs' memorial, museum and strengthened security ahead of Dec 31 Pran Pratistha Ekadashi

Consensus: Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is preparing for very large pilgrim numbers at the Ram Mandir complex in Ayodhya, planning crowd-management, infrastructure expansion and enhanced security ahead of Pran Pratistha Ekadashi on December 31. • Trust leadership: General Secretary Champat Rai is the principal spokesperson for the Trust's announcements; the Trust has invited Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for the December 31 observance.

Bondi Beach attack: Bystander Ahmed al‑Ahmed disarms shooter; Australia unites in grief and debate

Consensus: On 17 December 2025 a man opened fire at Bondi Beach, Sydney; a bystander, identified as Ahmed al‑Ahmed, intervened and helped disarm the shooter. • Australian Prime Minister publicly praised Ahmed as “the best of our country” and called for national unity; floral tributes and public support followed.

Supreme Court Collegium recommends two judicial officers for Punjab & Haryana High Court; recommends making Justice Arvind K. Verma permanent in Chhattisgarh HC

Consensus: The Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the elevation of two judicial officers as judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. • Consensus: The Collegium has also recommended that Justice Arvind Kumar Verma of the Chhattisgarh High Court be made a permanent judge.

Gunfire reported on Bishnupur–Churachandpur border in Manipur; security tightened

Consensus: Multiple outlets report several rounds of gunfire near Torbung and Phougakchao Ikhai on the Bishnupur–Churachandpur border in Manipur, triggering renewed local tension. • Consensus: Shooters have been described as 'unidentified miscreants' and authorities increased security presence in the area after the incident.

Kerala judicial officers' body asks High Court to act after online vilification of Judge Honey Varghese

Consensus: The Kerala Judicial Officers' Association has urged the Kerala High Court to take action after Judge Honey Varghese was targeted online following her judgment in a rape matter involving an actor, seeking contempt proceedings and investigation into the attacks. • Action sought: The association asked the High Court to initiate contempt of court proceedings against those who "scandalised" the judge and to direct appropriate agencies to probe cyber attacks and personal attacks on the judicial officer.

Tata gifts newly launched Sierra SUVs to India women's 2025 World Cup-winning cricket team

Consensus: Tata (Tata Motors/Tata Group) presented the Indian women's cricket team — winners of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 — with the newly launched Tata Sierra SUV as a gesture of honour following their tournament victory. • Delivery and timing: Reports dated 16–17 December 2025 say the vehicles were handed over to the World Cup-winning side in mid‑December 2025.

Delhi and Haryana move to digitise farm records; Haryana to issue 1.38 crore Farm IDs by Feb 2026

Consensus: Delhi and Haryana governments are undertaking programmes to digitise agricultural land and farm records to strengthen land/crop databases, improve targeting of agricultural schemes and speed up benefit payments and transparency. • Delhi: The Delhi government, led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, has announced creation of a digital database of agricultural land and will digitise farm records; officials say this will help with payments under government schemes.

Mithun Rashifal 2026: Aaj Tak forecasts possible financial strain for Gemini in 2026

Consensus: Aaj Tak's yearly horoscope (Mithun Rashifal 2026), published 17 Dec 2025, forecasts that people born under Mithun (Gemini) may face worsening finances in 2026 and should exercise caution with their budget. • The piece highlights potential impacts on business, jobs and career, and personal relationships, advising practical caution in financial and professional decisions.

India Today publishes list of the 8 best Marvel Cinematic Universe movies

Consensus: India Today (Visual Stories) published an editorial list ranking what it considers the eight best films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, dated 17 December 2025. • The piece is a subjective, editorial/visual feature meant to guide readers on standout MCU films; it does not present polling data or an industry-wide metric.

Multiple national and state-level application windows open: NTA launches CUET‑PG 2026 registration; GUJCET and IGNOU admissions also begin

Consensus: Three separate admission processes have opened in December 2025 — the National Testing Agency (NTA) has begun online registration for CUET‑PG 2026, Gujarat GSEB has opened GUJCET 2026 applications, and Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has started January 2026 fresh admissions. • CUET‑PG 2026: NTA has activated the online application portal (exams.nta.nic.in) for the Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate courses; media coverage highlights the start of the application process and directs applicants to the official notification for dates and eligibility.

Instagram launches Reels-first app for TVs, bringing vertical short videos to the big screen

Consensus: Meta's Instagram has released a Reels-first app designed for televisions, bringing vertically framed short-form videos to the big screen (reports dated 17 Dec 2025). • Who/when: The rollout is by Meta (Instagram) and was reported on 17 December 2025 by India Today and The Indian Express.

PM Modi begins three‑nation tour to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman; business, security and cooperation on agenda

Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a three‑nation visit to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman, arriving in Amman for a two‑day stop where he is scheduled to meet King Abdullah II and address an India‑Jordan Business Forum. • India and Jordan signed eight memoranda of understanding/agreements during the visit to deepen cooperation.

Indian equity markets slip on FII outflows and global headwinds; Sensex, Nifty hover near 26,000

Consensus: In mid‑December 2025 Indian equity indices opened and traded lower as foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows, weak global cues and rupee weakness weighed on sentiment — the BSE Sensex fell about 200–300 points and the Nifty50 traded around or below the 26,000 mark. • Sectors and stocks: Metal stocks led early declines in some sessions; energy and select PSU names such as NTPC were reported weaker, while banking stocks showed episodic strength.

Firing outside BJP candidate Pawan Walekar's Thane office; security guard injured

Consensus: Two unidentified persons arrived on a bike and allegedly fired four rounds outside the Thane office of BJP candidate Pawan Walekar. • A security guard was injured; there were no immediate reports of fatalities.

LSEG data: December Russian crude arrivals set to exceed 1.2 mbpd, showing resilience despite sanctions

Consensus: Preliminary LSEG trade flow data indicate seaborne Russian crude oil arrivals in December are likely to exceed 1.2 million barrels per day, signalling sustained export volumes despite sanctions and the G7 price cap. • How resilience shows: Analysts point to rerouting of shipments to non-Western buyers, increased flows to Asia, use of ship‑to‑ship transfers and shadow tanker activity as mechanisms keeping volumes elevated.

Sarthak Ranjan, son of politician Pappu Yadav, revives cricket career with Delhi Premier League form and a Rs 30 lakh IPL deal

Consensus: Sarthak Ranjan, son of politician Pappu Yadav, overcame prejudice, self-doubt and mental-health challenges to revive his cricket career through strong performances in the Delhi Premier League and has secured a Rs 30 lakh Indian Premier League (IPL) contract with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). • Details: The Delhi Premier League stint is described as a turning point that restored his confidence and visibility to IPL scouts; the reported IPL deal is for Rs 30 lakh with KKR.

Dehradun Municipal Corporation issues new dog-ownership rules; FIRs can be filed in bite cases

Consensus: The Dehradun Municipal Corporation has framed new rules for dog ownership in the city after repeated incidents of dog attacks; the rules allow an FIR to be registered in cases of dog bites. • The measures were introduced by the municipal authority as a public-safety response to recurring attacks, according to the corporation's notification reported in the coverage.

Bharat Taxi app to launch in Delhi on January 1, 2026; promises no surge pricing and 80% driver commission

Consensus: Multiple Indian outlets report that the Bharat Taxi ride‑hailing app will begin operations in Delhi from January 1, 2026. • Service features reported: the app is being promoted as eliminating surge pricing and offering drivers an 80% share of fares.

Amazon continues layoffs in Washington and at European HQ in Luxembourg

Consensus: Amazon has announced additional job cuts in the US state of Washington and at its European headquarters in Luxembourg. • Luxembourg: The company is cutting 370 roles (about 8.5% of staff at the site), with software developers among the most affected; the move is described as the biggest-ever reduction at Amazon's European HQ and follows a negotiated social plan.

EAM S. Jaishankar holds talks in Abu Dhabi and visits Israel, advancing India‑UAE and India‑Israel ties

Consensus: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held multiple meetings at the Sir Bani Yas Forum in Abu Dhabi with European, U.K. and Egyptian counterparts and met senior UAE leadership; India and the UAE agreed on new initiatives and an agenda for 2026. • Consensus: Following the Abu Dhabi engagements, Jaishankar travelled to Israel on December 16, 2025 and held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aimed at deepening bilateral ties.

Elon Musk’s X sues startup over attempt to claim 'Twitter' brand

Consensus: Elon Musk’s company X (formerly Twitter) has filed a legal challenge against a social‑media startup that sought to register or use the 'Twitter' brand/name. • The Hindu reports X initiated the lawsuit to block the startup’s bid to claim the Twitter trademark/brand, asserting X’s continuing rights in the name.

Dense fog in northern India causes multiple road crashes, three killed in separate incidents in Haryana and Barnala

Consensus: Heavy/dense fog reduced visibility in parts of northern India, triggering road accidents that killed three people in separate incidents. • Hindustan Times (Haryana): Reports a fog-triggered crash in Haryana in which three people died; among the deceased were a CISF inspector and a woman police constable, according to local police.

ED raids 25 sites, arrest warrants issued in alleged codeine cough syrup racket; Allahabad HC grants interim relief to prime suspect Shubham Jaiswal

Consensus: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered a money‑laundering case under the PMLA and conducted raids at 25 locations across three states in connection with an alleged illegal codeine cough syrup trafficking racket (reported 15–16 Dec 2025). • Consensus: Non‑bailable warrants have been issued by authorities against prime accused Shubham Jaiswal and an associate; Jaiswal is described in reports as a BHU graduate and heir to a family business and is identified as a key suspect in the multi‑crore racket.

Japanese woman holds wedding with virtual partner using AR glasses

Consensus: Japanese woman Noguchi conducted a wedding ceremony with a virtual partner named Klaus, using augmented-reality (AR) smart glasses while the partner appeared on her smartphone; reported by The Hindu BusinessLine and NDTV. • Disagreements: The two sources report the same basic facts and offer similar descriptions; there are no substantive factual disagreements between them.

Supreme Court directs Centre to curb ‘digital arrest’ scams, suggests victim compensation as arrests follow

Supreme Court heard cases on ‘digital arrest’ scams in which fraudsters impersonate police or government officials to coerce citizens into transferring money. • The court described the sums siphoned off as 'staggering' and asked the central government to consult stakeholders and propose steps to prevent such frauds.

Union government expands medical education: 48,563 MBBS and 29,080 PG seats added in six years; 10,023 new seats sanctioned for 2025–29

Consensus: The Union government has increased medical education capacity — 48,563 MBBS and 29,080 postgraduate (MD/MS/Diploma) seats were added over the past six years, and a separate sanction approved 10,023 new medical seats under central schemes for 2025–29 to strengthen education in government medical colleges. • Details from sources: Indian Express reports the cumulative six‑year additions (48,563 MBBS; 29,080 PG). India Today reports the Union government has approved 10,023 new seats under central schemes for 2025–29 targeted at government colleges.

Centre tells Lok Sabha it is reviewing Copyright Act to address challenges posed by generative AI

The central government informed the Lok Sabha that the Copyright Act is under review to address legal and regulatory challenges arising from generative artificial intelligence (AI). • The statement was made in Parliament; the government indicated legislative or policy updates are being considered to respond to issues such as AI‑generated content and rights in training data.

OpenAI upgrades ChatGPT Images for speed and accuracy; AI researcher Yann LeCun critiques ChatGPT's grasp of reality

Consensus: OpenAI announced an update to ChatGPT Images, introducing a new image-generation model that OpenAI says delivers faster image generation, sharper edits, improved text rendering and higher fidelity outputs within the ChatGPT app. • Consensus: The Images capability is integrated into ChatGPT and available to users as part of OpenAI’s ongoing feature rollouts.

Karnataka government says 46 arrests in female foeticide cases since 2023; state aware of rising incidents

Karnataka Health Minister told the state assembly the government is aware of a rise in female foeticide cases and that 46 people have been arrested in related investigations since 2023. • The statement confirms ongoing police and administrative action; cases involve alleged illegal sex determination and termination of pregnancies.

Madhya Pradesh reverses Simhastha land-pooling plan; Sangh-affiliated farmer outfit announces protest

Consensus: The Madhya Pradesh government announced a reversal (described in coverage as a full backtrack) of its land‑pooling scheme intended for development associated with the Simhastha Mela. • Consensus: A farmer outfit affiliated with the Sangh has announced plans to protest, criticizing the government’s handling of the land‑pooling proposal and its subsequent U‑turn.

First World Skills Youth Camp successfully held in Ningbo

Consensus: Two press releases report that the inaugural World Skills Youth Camp was held in Ningbo and concluded successfully. • The camp is described as a youth-focused skills event featuring training, exchanges and related activities aimed at skills development.

Genelia D'Souza calls husband Riteish Deshmukh 'her heartbeat' in birthday post

Consensus: On 17 December 2025, actress Genelia D'Souza posted a birthday message for her husband, actor Riteish Deshmukh, calling him “my heartbeat,” according to India Today. • Disagreements: No other reports cited in the source disagree with this account.

Jasprit Bumrah flies home for personal reasons, misses Dharamsala T20I; BCCI to confirm availability for remaining South Africa T20Is

Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah did not play India’s 3rd T20I in Dharamsala and returned to Mumbai citing personal reasons. • The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said Bumrah’s availability for the remaining matches of the India vs South Africa T20I series will be provided 'in due course'.

EU softens 2035 combustion‑engine car ban but keeps emissions targets; offsets allowed

Consensus: The European Union has retreated from a strict 2035 ban on new combustion‑engine passenger cars, keeping overall CO2 emission targets but allowing some internal combustion engine (ICE) models and plug‑in hybrids to be sold if automakers offset emissions through approved measures. • Offsets and flexibility: Agreed offset options include use of low‑carbon European steel, renewable e‑fuels or biofuels, and other lifecycle emission compensations that let some combustion vehicles remain compliant with EU targets.

MKBAC column urges legislative reform to curb inordinate delays in passing arbitral awards in India

Consensus: A column in The Arbitration Practitioner’s Series by MKBAC argues that delays in the delivery of arbitral awards in India have become inordinate and that legislative intervention is needed to restore efficiency and finality in arbitration. • Problem identified: Practitioners say prolonged award‑writing timelines undermine the speed and cost advantages of arbitration, increasing uncertainty for parties and burdening courts on enforcement and challenges.

Multi-city police crackdowns uncover varied fraud rings — dating app, insurance, fake treatments, call centre and property scams; multiple arrests

Consensus: Police in Delhi, Noida, Bengaluru, Mumbai and other areas have recently arrested individuals and small groups accused of running diverse frauds — including dating-app cons, insurance scams, impersonation of regulators, fake medical treatments, property frauds, money‑doubling schemes, ‘digital arrest’ extortion and a family‑run fake call centre — recovering some funds and detaining suspects. • Notable cases reported: a Ugandan national arrested in Delhi over a dating‑app fraud (NDTV); four people arrested for duping a cancer patient of about Rs 1.3 lakh in an insurance scam (NDTV/Indian Express); four arrested for posing as IRDAI officials in an insurance fraud (Indian Express); two arrested in Bengaluru for cheating a man of about Rs 47 lakh with a fake Ayurvedic treatment (The Hindu); an EOW arrest in Mumbai over alleged MHADA flat frauds (Indian Express); six arrested in Noida for a Rs 16.5 lakh money‑doubling promise (Indian Express); three arrested after an 82‑year‑old Delhi resident lost over Rs 1 crore in a ‘digital arrest’ scam (Indian Express); Delhi Police action in a multi‑state cyber fraud linked to about Rs 33 lakh (Hindustan Times); and a family‑run fake call centre busted in Delhi (Indian Express).

Delhi traffic constable suspended after viral video shows him beating cab driver near NDLS

A Delhi traffic police constable was filmed striking a cab driver during an on‑road altercation; the footage circulated widely on social media. • Following the viral video, the Delhi Traffic Police suspended the constable and announced an internal inquiry.

Mundhwa land deal probe: Pimpri-Chinchwad police arrest Sheetaj Tejwani, focus on alleged stamp-duty waiver; Digivijay Patil questioned

Consensus: Pimpri-Chinchwad police are investigating the Mundhwa land transaction in Pune and have taken action against developer Sheetaj Tejwani; Tejwani has been placed in police custody as part of the probe. • Consensus: The probe centres on alleged irregularities including a waiver or reduction of stamp duty linked to the land deal; investigators say this aspect is a key line of inquiry.

WHO to create 1.6 million‑record digital library and use AI to assess traditional medicine

Consensus: The World Health Organization will launch a global digital repository of research on traditional medicine containing about 1.6 million scientific records to strengthen evidence and improve knowledge‑sharing. • Consensus: The initiative will use digital tools, including artificial intelligence, to index and analyse large volumes of studies to support assessment of safety, quality and effectiveness.

Maharashtra sports minister Manikrao Kokate sentenced to two years in 1995 housing fraud case; MLA status at risk

Consensus: A court has upheld a two-year jail sentence for Maharashtra sports minister Manikrao Kokate in a 1995 housing-scheme fraud case. • Date & place: Reported 16 December 2025; the judgment was delivered by a court in Mumbai.

Thales awards SFO Technologies contract to supply wired structures for RBE2 radar for Indian Rafale under Make in India

Consensus: French defence major Thales has awarded an Indian company, SFO Technologies, a contract to supply complex wiring and wired structures for the RBE2 airborne AESA radar fitted on Indian Rafale fighters as part of its Make in India sourcing. • Scope and delivery: The work covers manufacture of wired structures/complex wiring for the RBE2 radar; production will be performed in India and SFO will supply components to Thales for integration on Rafale radars. Financial terms and exact delivery schedule were not disclosed in the reports.

Centre tables Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill 2025 to create central higher education regulator; opposition, teachers raise autonomy and federalism concerns

Consensus: The Union government has introduced the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan (VBSA) Bill, 2025, proposing a single apex regulator for higher education that would subsume existing bodies (including UGC and AICTE) and extend regulatory coverage to institutions such as IITs and IIMs; the move is presented as implementing the NEP 2020 reforms and the government has proposed sending the Bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). • Disagreements: The government, led publicly by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, says the Bill preserves a role for states and will not infringe on their powers; critics — including opposition parties, central university teachers and some academics — argue the Bill centralises authority, risks undermining institutional autonomy and could alter the federal balance in education, pointing to the Bill’s appointment provisions and override clauses as specific concerns.

TN DGP Abhay Kumar Singh orders crackdown on illegal 'orderly' system

Tamil Nadu Director General of Police Abhay Kumar Singh has directed state police to crack down on an illegal 'orderly' system where individuals escort vehicles and provide unauthorised security or privileges. • The DGP instructed local police stations to identify and take action against organisers and participants, including registering cases and initiating enforcement under relevant laws, and to impound vehicles or revoke permissions as applicable.

Security push: large Maoist surrenders, weapons dump seized; MP claims it has neutralised remaining cadres

Consensus: Security forces in central India have reported major gains against Maoist groups — dozens of cadres surrendered in Chhattisgarh while police/paramilitary units recovered a weapons and cash cache in Madhya Pradesh. • Chhattisgarh surrender: Officials said 34 Maoists (including seven women) surrendered in Bijapur on December 16 under the state’s 'Puna Margem' rehabilitation drive; 26 of the group carried government bounties totalling ₹84 lakh.

Delhi’s hazardous winter smog: emergency bans, debate over sources, and unequal health impacts

Consensus: In mid‑December 2025 Delhi recorded hazardous air quality and authorities imposed emergency measures — including restrictions on construction, a ban on non‑BS VI vehicles entering the city, and a ban on restaurant tandoors — as pollution levels surged. • Sources agreed the city’s air crisis is multi‑factorial: high vehicular emissions, construction dust, industry and local domestic sources contribute substantially; stubble burning in neighbouring states also adds pollution but its relative share is disputed.

SEBI said to be considering review of mutual fund rules and pre‑IPO lock‑in norms

Consensus: Indian Express reports that the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) may review mutual fund regulations and pre‑IPO lock‑in norms. • Scope: The review is reported to cover rules governing mutual fund operations and the lock‑in period applied to investors or shareholders before an initial public offering (pre‑IPO).

SAM advises Tata Steel on ₹636 crore stake acquisition in Thriveni Pellets

Consensus: Law firm SAM advised Tata Steel on a ₹636 crore transaction to acquire a stake in Thriveni Pellets, according to reporting by Bar & Bench. • Transaction details: The deal is described as a stake acquisition in Thriveni Pellets with a total consideration of ₹636 crore; the report does not specify the percentage of equity acquired or the counterparty by name.

RINL's Vizag steel plant logs record single‑day hot metal output of 21,012 tonnes

Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL) reported its Visakhapatnam Steel Plant produced a record 21,012 metric tonnes of hot metal in a single day. • The output is the highest single‑day hot metal production in the plant's history.

Allahabad High Court issues multiple directives to UP authorities on anti‑conversion FIRs, police communications and regulates acid sale PIL

Consensus: The Allahabad High Court has, in separate but contemporaneous orders, (1) cautioned Uttar Pradesh authorities against lodging templated or 'mimeographic' FIRs under the state anti‑conversion law and stressed careful, fact‑based investigations; (2) directed UP police to send case instructions by e‑mail in criminal matters and ordered immediate integration with the Integrated Criminal Justice System (ICJS); and (3) converted a 2014 public interest litigation on regulating the sale of acid in UP into a suo motu proceeding to examine licensing, sale, storage and record‑keeping safeguards. • On anti‑conversion FIRs the court warned against mechanically registering identical complaints and urged authorities to ensure FIRs reflect specific facts and to avoid sweeping or formulaic allegations when invoking the stringent provisions of the UP law.

Election Commission publishes draft electoral rolls after SIR in 3 states and 2 UTs; 1.02 crore names removed

Consensus: The Election Commission published draft electoral rolls following the SIR exercise in three states and two Union Territories; the drafts have been made available for public scrutiny and claims/objections. • Net removals: Reports state about 1.02 crore names were deleted from the five draft rolls, a reduction of roughly 7.6% in those jurisdictions combined.

IPL 2026 Abu Dhabi mini‑auction: squads reshaped — big uncapped buys, two comebacks and varied team strategies

Consensus: The IPL 2026 mini‑auction in Abu Dhabi (mid‑December 2025) reshuffled squads across all 10 franchises — notable outcomes included high bids for uncapped Indians, late pickups of previously unsold domestic stars, and distinct spending patterns by teams. • Key outcomes agreed across sources: Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma emerged as the most expensive uncapped players (combined reported interest ~₹14.20 crore); Prithvi Shaw and Sarfaraz Khan — initially unsold — were later bought (Shaw to Delhi Capitals, Sarfaraz to Chennai Super Kings).

Siddaramaiah says he will remain Karnataka CM until Congress high command decides

Consensus: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah told the state Legislature/Assembly that he will continue as chief minister 'now and until the high command decides' and said he intends to serve the five-year term for which voters elected him. • Location and forum: The remarks were made in the Karnataka Legislature/Assembly and were reported across multiple national outlets.

Kerala protests over actor Dileep's acquittal disrupt film screenings and temple event; invite withdrawn and coupon launch postponed

Consensus: In mid‑December 2025, public objections related to actor Dileep's recent acquittal led to disruptions around his publicity activities in Kerala — a KSRTC bus screening was stopped after a woman passenger protested, and a planned temple coupon inauguration in Ernakulam was called off. • Temple event: Several outlets report the Ernakulam Shiva temple's coupon‑launch for a festival was postponed and Dileep's invitation was withdrawn amid rising protests over his acquittal.

Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt and wife Shwetambari sent to judicial custody in alleged ₹30 crore fraud

Consensus: Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt and his wife Shwetambari are accused of defrauding Rajasthan-based doctor Ajay Murdia of about ₹30 crore; the FIR names the couple and six others. • Allegations reported include the use of fake bills and promises to produce four films as part of the scheme; these are described as allegations in media reports.

Kunal Kemmu’s new web series Single Papa earns praise for his performance but draws mixed reviews on execution

Consensus: Indian actor Kunal Kemmu headlines Single Papa, a new Indian web series about single fatherhood; critics agree Kemmu anchors the show with a strong, sympathetic performance. • Consensus: Reviewers describe the series as warm and heartfelt in parts, focusing on parenting and family dynamics; the show has attracted positive celebrity response, including praise from actress Soha Ali Khan.

Telangana CM Revanth Reddy seeks Centre’s support for major education push — FRBM exemption, ₹30,000 crore, YIIRS and an IIM for Hyderabad

Consensus: On 17 December 2025, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to seek central support for an education expansion including Young India schools, setting up a YIIRS, sanctioning an IIM for Hyderabad, and easing borrowing by the state. • Reddy asked for fiscal flexibility — including exemption from the FRBM borrowing limit — to finance the campaign, proposing roughly ₹30,000 crore for the education programme.

Karnataka government defends Hate Speech Bill 2025 as necessary for public order; opposition warns of censorship

Consensus: The Karnataka government has introduced and is defending the Hate Speech Bill 2025, saying the measure is necessary to preserve public order and protect state and societal interests. • Government position: Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and other state officials have argued the law is aimed at curbing hate speech and communal tensions and rejected claims that it is intended to silence dissent.

Suryakumar Yadav's poor form draws criticism as India chase series win vs South Africa

Consensus: India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has produced a string of low scores in the India vs South Africa T20I series, prompting public criticism and media scrutiny ahead of the fourth T20I in Lucknow (India Today, Indian Express). • Critics: Former players and commentators, including Aakash Chopra, said a captain's primary job is to score runs and have warned that persistent poor form could jeopardise his leadership role (Indian Express, India Today). A Times of India report quoted an ex-player saying Suryakumar 'won't be India's captain' if form does not improve.

US administration expands travel bans, adding multiple countries including Palestinian Authority

Consensus: The US administration signed orders in mid‑December 2025 expanding travel and entry restrictions to a number of additional countries; the measures apply to both visitors and those seeking to emigrate to the United States. • Reported additions include the Palestinian Authority and countries such as Syria and Zimbabwe; affected nationals face new limits or full bans on entry depending on the country.

Karnataka Assembly adopts 12 bills including Kodagu land‑record modernisation and rent‑law amendment

Karnataka Legislative Assembly adopted 12 bills in a recent session, including a Land Revenue Bill and an amendment to the rent law. • The Land Revenue Bill includes provisions to modernise and correct Kodagu district's unique 'Jamma Bane' land records.

School-assembly headlines (Nov 15–24, 2025): daily round-ups of major national and international news

Multiple Indian outlets (India Today, The Indian Express) ran school-assembly style daily headline round-ups between Nov 15–24, 2025 summarising top India, world, sports and business news for students and schools. • Commonly reported national items include: Nitish Kumar taking oath as Bihar Chief Minister (Nov 21), notification of data protection rules, CBSE subject-wise marks distribution guidance, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending COP30 in Brazil (Nov 24).

Multi‑vehicle crash with fire on Mathura/Yamuna expressway leaves several dead and injured; mother who saved two children reported missing

Consensus: A major pile‑up on an expressway near Mathura (reported as the Yamuna/Mathura expressway) involved multiple vehicles, a rapid fire and resulted in several deaths and injuries; bystanders attempted rescues but the blaze spread quickly. • Multiple reports say a woman threw her two children out of a burning bus to save them; the children survived but the mother is reported missing and relatives have gathered outside hospitals.

Gujarat government appoints Ahmedabad District Education Officer as administrator of Seventh Day School after state takeover

Consensus: The Gujarat government took over administration of Ahmedabad’s Seventh Day School on 15 December 2025 and appointed the Ahmedabad District Education Officer as the school administrator, according to reporting by OpIndia. • Reported background (single-source): OpIndia says the takeover follows allegations concerning the murder of a Hindu student and names a minor Muslim as an accused; these factual claims are presented by that outlet and are not corroborated in the provided inputs.

Indian Army displays Turkey-made Yiha kamikaze drone intercepted during Operation Sindoor

Consensus: The Indian Army publicly displayed a recovered Turkey-made Yiha (Yiha-33) kamikaze/suicide drone that it says was intercepted during Operation Sindoor and shown on Vijay Diwas at Army Chief Gen. Upendra Dwivedi’s residence. • Consensus: The Army says the weaponised drone was launched from the Lahore area, carried explosive munitions, and was shot down before reaching its intended target inside Punjab; video and photos of the recovered drone were released to media.

Separate fatal stabbings involving minors reported in East Delhi and Pune

Consensus: Two recent, separate incidents in India involved minors committing fatal stabbings — one in East Delhi and one at a coaching centre in Pune. • East Delhi: Police say two minor boys allegedly stabbed an 18-year-old man to death; the suspects were apprehended and accused of attacking the victim over a relationship dispute (reported by Indian Express and linked Delhi coverage).

BL Morning Report episodes (Dec 15–17, 2025): daily business and market headlines

Consensus: Three audio episodes of The Hindu BusinessLine's 'BL Morning Report' — dated Dec 15, 16 and 17, 2025 — present each day's top business and market headlines, covering India equity-market trends (Sensex, Nifty), broader stock‑market movements, key economic highlights and relevant global market updates. • Differences: There are no substantive disagreements between the episodes about format or purpose; each file reports that particular day's top headlines and therefore contains different day‑specific market outcomes and headlines corresponding to Dec 15, Dec 16 and Dec 17 respectively.

Prithvi Shaw tells court influencer’s molestation complaint is false and frivolous

Consensus: Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaw told a court that a molestation complaint lodged against him is false and 'frivolous', according to multiple media reports. • Allegation: Influencer Swapna Gill has accused Shaw of molestation and filed the complaint; Shaw has denied the allegation in court.

Viral video shows Blinkit delivery agent saying he earned Rs 763 after 15‑hour shift; AAP MP raises exploitation concerns in Parliament

Consensus: A video posted online shows a Blinkit delivery agent saying he delivered 28 orders in about 15 hours and earned Rs 763 (about Rs 15 per delivery); the clip went viral and prompted public backlash. • Political reaction: AAP MP Raghav Chadha raised the incident in Parliament, calling it evidence of 'exploitation hidden behind apps and algorithms' and urging attention to gig‑worker pay and protections.

PM Modi to hold first West Bengal rally after SIR draft, scheduled in Nadia district

Consensus: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a rally in Nadia district, West Bengal — his first public rally in the state after the release of the SIR draft. • No significant public disagreements reported in the cited coverage about the occurrence or location of the rally.

Pricus Legal LLP posts associate vacancy in New Delhi

Consensus: LiveLaw reports that Pricus Legal LLP has advertised an associate position based in New Delhi and is inviting applications. • The LiveLaw listing is presented as a job update titled 'Associate Vacancy At Pricus Legal LLP, New Delhi [Apply Now]'.

Two 2026 internship drives open in India: Indian Army (apply by Dec 21) and Google (apply by Feb 26)

Consensus: Two separate internship programmes for 2026 have opened — the Indian Army’s tech internship for engineers and AI researchers, and Google’s Student Researcher Internship — each with specified application deadlines. • Indian Army: The Indian Army’s Tech Internship Programme 2026 invites applications from engineers and AI researchers and offers a daily stipend of Rs 1,000; applications close on December 21, 2025.

Trump urges Pakistan to consider sending troops to Gaza; Asim Munir faces a high‑stakes decision

Consensus: India Today reports that US President Donald Trump, during talks with Pakistani leaders on Dec 17, 2025, pressed Pakistan to consider sending troops to Gaza; the request places Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir under domestic and institutional pressure to respond. • Immediate situation: Pakistani civilian and military authorities have not confirmed any troop deployment. The question raises legal, operational and political constraints inside Pakistan, including approval requirements and public sensitivity to foreign military missions.

Centre says six states imposed ₹129 crore penalty on contractors under Jal Jeevan Mission

Consensus: The Centre reports that six states have imposed a total of ₹129 crore in penalties on contractors under the Jal Jeevan Mission. • States involved: Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Gujarat, Assam, Maharashtra and Rajasthan reported the penalties and related recovery actions.

India unemployment falls to 4.7% in November; US jobs data shows mixed signals (unemployment 4.6%, payrolls +64,000)

Consensus: Government data reported by MoSPI and covered by The Hindu, Indian Express and Times of India shows India's unemployment rate declined to 4.7% in November, the lowest level since April; MoSPI described the job market as strengthening. • Details: Indian outlets report the drop in joblessness compared with prior months based on the government survey and treat it as an improvement in employment conditions.

Spicy food makes the nose run because capsaicin triggers a neural reflex, not an allergy

Consensus: Capsaicin—the active compound in chillies—activates TRPV1 receptors on trigeminal sensory nerves, producing a burning sensation and triggering a parasympathetic reflex that increases nasal mucus and tears. • Mechanism: Activation of these sensory nerves causes glandular secretion and vasodilation in the nasal mucosa (a process commonly called gustatory rhinitis), producing a runny nose and watering eyes.

Budget-friendly Secret Santa gift ideas under Rs 500

Consensus: India Today recommends a list of thoughtful, practical Secret Santa gift ideas that cost under Rs 500, suitable for colleagues, friends and family during the winter season. • Suggested categories include warm wearables (socks, beanies, gloves), personal-care items (hand creams, lip balms), small home items (mugs, scented candles), stationery and planners, reusable drinkware, small tech/accessories (phone stands, earphone cases) and gift vouchers — all chosen for utility and seasonal appropriateness.

Yashasvi Jaiswal hospitalised in Pune after Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match

Consensus: India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was hospitalised in Pune with acute gastroenteritis after playing for Mumbai in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) match; doctors have advised rest and medication (Times of India). • During the game Jaiswal experienced stomach cramps but still contributed to Mumbai's successful chase before being taken for medical attention.

Banke Bihari Mandir bhog skipped, daily timings disrupted in Vrindavan after confectioner payment dispute

Consensus: Daily bhog (food offering) and routine rest/timing schedules at the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Mathura, were disrupted after the temple's confectioner reportedly did not receive cleared payments, leading to missed or delayed bhog services. • Event timing: Reports from 16–17 December 2025 say the disruptions affected the temple's normal puja/bhog schedule in mid-December 2025.

Markets: Multiple outlets list stocks to watch for Dec 17; Anand Rathi recommends CG Power, Marico, Britannia

Consensus: Indian financial dailies published lists of stocks to watch in trading on Dec 17, 2025, naming a wide range of companies across IT, power, energy, consumer and industrial sectors. • Common names flagged: Wipro, Adani Green, HCL Tech, Tata Power, Reliance and other large-cap names appear across the lists; sectoral and mid‑cap names such as Waaree, KEC, Devyani, Texmaco, Deccan Gold and Ion Exchange also featured.

Two teacher‑eligibility exam updates: Haryana HTET notification imminent; CBSE CTET February registration closing soon

Consensus: Two separate, contemporaneous updates about teacher‑eligibility tests — the Haryana Teacher Eligibility Test (HTET) 2026 notification is expected soon from the Board of School Education Haryana (BSEH), and the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) February 2026 registration run by CBSE is closing imminently at ctet.nic.in. • HTET (BSEH) — BSEH is set to release the HTET 2026 notification shortly; the exam is reported likely to be held on January 17–18, 2026, with registration details to appear on bseh.org.in.

Consortium of NLUs declares CLAT 2026 results; scorecards and counselling registration available

Consensus: The Consortium of National Law Universities (Consortium of NLUs) has declared the CLAT 2026 results on Dec 17, 2025; scorecards are available for download on the Consortium portal (consortiumofnlus.ac.in and result1.consortiumofnlus.ac.in). • UG and PG counselling registration has opened following the result declaration; the Consortium has published the counselling schedule and related instructions on its website.

Madhya Pradesh revokes Simhastha land‑pooling scheme after farmers warn of agitation

Consensus: The Madhya Pradesh government has revoked a land‑pooling scheme linked to preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh in Ujjain after farmers warned of agitation. • Context: The Simhastha Kumbh, held in Ujjain every 12 years, is a major Hindu religious congregation that draws lakhs of devotees from India and abroad; the scheme related to acquiring land for event infrastructure.

OpenAI appoints former UK finance minister George Osborne to lead global 'Stargate' expansion

Consensus: OpenAI has tapped former UK finance minister George Osborne to lead the global expansion of its 'Stargate' initiative; Osborne is expected to take part in OpenAI's event at the World Economic Forum in Davos next month (reported by The Hindu). • No public disputes or alternative accounts were reported in the available source.

Chile elects far‑right Jose Antonio Kast; rival concedes; Kast urges end to Maduro 'dictatorship'

Consensus: In a December 14, 2025 presidential runoff in Chile, far‑right candidate Jose Antonio Kast won the election and the left‑wing opponent conceded. • Consensus: The leftist challenger publicly acknowledged defeat and Kast emerged as president‑elect.

16 US states sue Trump administration over frozen $2 billion EV infrastructure funds

Consensus: Sixteen US states have filed a federal lawsuit alleging the Trump administration froze more than $2 billion in federal electric-vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure funds after President Trump ordered a halt to the programme in January. • The states say the funds had been allocated for building EV chargers and that the administration’s freeze unlawfully withholds money needed to deploy charging infrastructure.

Odisha launches Pharmaceutical & Medical Devices Policy 2025; 45 MoUs worth ₹6,263 crore signed

Consensus: On 16 December 2025, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched the Odisha Pharmaceutical & Medical Devices Policy 2025 at the Odisha Pharma Summit in Bhubaneswar. • 45 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the summit, valued at ₹6,263 crore and expected to generate about 38,406 jobs.

Jaishankar condemns Sydney Bondi Beach attack, reiterates India’s 'zero tolerance' on terrorism

Consensus: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar condemned the terror attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney and said India will counter terrorism 'with all its might', describing a 'zero tolerance' approach shared with Israel. • Variation in framing: The News Minute frames Jaishankar's remarks as a direct message to Pakistan; Indian Express and NDTV present them as a statement of India‑Israel policy alignment and a general condemnation of the Sydney attack.

Insurgency and Counter‑Insurgency: Human Rights Concerns in India

Consensus: Insurgency and counter‑insurgency operations across India have significant human‑rights implications — civilian casualties, allegations of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, custodial torture and restrictions on movement and assembly — and stakeholders agree on the need to balance national security with protection of rights and rule‑of‑law safeguards. • Common legal and policy focus: Special legal regimes and measures used in conflict‑affected areas (including special powers granted to security forces) are central to the debate; institutions such as courts, the National Human Rights Commission and state human‑rights bodies have repeatedly urged procedures for investigation, accountability and compensation.

BJP releases video countering AAP claim that 'AQI' chants were heard at Messi event in Delhi

Consensus: The BJP published a counter-video disputing an AAP claim that crowds chanted 'AQI-AQI' when Delhi's chief minister appeared at a Lionel Messi event in Delhi. • BJP's claim: The footage, the party said, shows spectators chanting 'Me-si, Me-si' (for Messi), not 'AQI'; BJP called AAP's assertion false and circulated the clip on social media.

Bengaluru’s unfinished flyovers and infrastructure projects cause congestion; officials differ on completion timelines

Consensus: Multiple major flyovers, ramps and related infrastructure projects across Bengaluru remain incomplete, constraining the traffic relief they were designed to provide and worsening congestion in areas such as Mahadevapura. • Affected projects repeatedly reported include the Ejipura flyover, the double-decker and rotary flyovers at Baiyappanahalli (where unfinished ramps are limiting benefits), and several underpasses and ramps across the city.

Bondi Beach attack: First funeral held; first identified victim is local rabbi Eli Schlanger

Consensus: Australia held the first funeral for victims of the Bondi Beach attack; the first person mourned was identified as Eli Schlanger, a local Chabad rabbi known as the 'Bondi rabbi'. • Eli Schlanger was a father of five and organised a memorial for the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, a detail highlighted by multiple reports linking the victim to commemorations of the Mumbai atrocity.

Khaitan & Co advises ICICI Securities on ₹500 crore NCD issuance

Khaitan & Co, an Indian law firm, advised ICICI Securities on the proposed issuance of non-convertible debentures (NCDs) worth ₹500 crore, according to a Bar & Bench report. • The transaction concerns a debt raising by ICICI Securities through NCDs; the report names Khaitan & Co as legal counsel to the issuer.

Consensus: AI will reshape jobs but certain careers — especially specialised engineering and oversight roles — remain futureproof

Consensus: Both outlets say AI will disrupt many roles but some careers are more resilient and likely to persist. • India Today highlights engineering specialisations that will grow with AI: distributed systems, observability, and building/maintaining guardrails for AI agents.

December 16–17, 1985: Voting day and record turnout in Assam after the Assam Accord

Consensus: On December 16–17, 1985, Assam voters went to the polls; contemporaneous Indian Express reports described December 16 as 'voting day' and on December 17 recorded a notably high voter turnout across the state. • Both pieces agree the polls drew unusually large participation, seen as a key indicator of public engagement immediately after the Assam Accord (signed August 15, 1985) that sought to end the state’s prolonged agitation.

Three youths arrested for trespassing into restricted Air Force area near Chandigarh

Consensus: Indian Express reports that three youths were arrested after they entered a restricted Indian Air Force area near Chandigarh. • Where and who: The incident occurred in the vicinity of an Air Force-controlled zone close to Chandigarh; the youths were detained by Air Force/security personnel and handed over to local police, according to the report.

Parliamentary panel urges return to pen-and-paper for JEE, NEET and CUET after NTA test disruptions

Consensus: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education has recommended greater use of pen-and-paper (offline) examinations for major national tests — JEE, NEET and CUET — following repeated disruptions in computer‑based testing conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). • Committee findings: The report flagged recurring technical failures in NTA‑administered computer‑based tests, concerns over private vendors, shortcomings in financial management and security risks; it contrasted these with the relative reliability of CBSE and UPSC paper‑based systems.

Allahabad High Court registers suo motu PIL over delays in termination of pregnancy of rape survivors

Consensus: The Allahabad High Court has registered a suo motu public interest litigation after reports of delays in providing termination of pregnancy to rape survivors. • Consensus: The court opened proceedings to examine the causes of delay and to ensure timely medical and legal relief for survivors.

EU to strengthen Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, tighten rules to prevent evasion

Consensus: The European Union will strengthen its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), a tariff on the CO2 emissions embedded in certain imported goods, and step up enforcement to prevent attempts to dodge the levy. • Scope: CBAM covers high-emission imported commodities including steel, aluminium, cement and fertilisers, with fees levied to reflect the carbon emitted in their production.

Masked man burns two cars outside house in Sidhrawali village, Gurugram; owner alleges rival involvement

Consensus: CCTV footage shows a masked man setting fire to two cars parked outside a house in Sidhrawali village, Gurugram. • Consensus: The vehicle owner is identified in reports as Raman Yadav.

संसद ने दिल्ली‑NCR एयर‑क्वालिटी मॉनिटरिंग सिस्टम पर गंभीर सवाल उठाए

संसद की एक पार्लियामेंटरी समिति ने 17 दिसंबर 2025 को दिल्ली‑NCR के वायु‑गुणवत्ता मॉनिटरिंग सिस्टम पर चिंता जताई। • समिति ने रिपोर्ट में कहा कि कई मॉनिटर 'ग्रीन जोन' जैसे कम‑प्रदूषित इलाकों में हैं जबकि तीव्र प्रदूषण वाले स्थान अनुपस्थित या कम प्रतिनिधित्व वाले हैं।

Indian markets turn choppy as US Fed decision looms; Sensex, Nifty hit third-day losses after fag‑end selloff

Consensus: Mumbai benchmarks were volatile around the US Federal Reserve decision — indices opened firm at times but weakened into the close, with Sensex and Nifty extending losses for a third consecutive session after a late-day (fag‑end) selloff. • Specifics: Times of India reported Nifty50 opened above 25,850 with the BSE Sensex initially up over 100 points; The Hindu and The Hindu Business Line recorded the subsequent intra‑day slip and the third‑day loss outcome.

Business dailies recommend buy calls on Grasim, Astral, Usha Martin and other stocks (15–16 Dec 2025)

Consensus: Indian business publications published daily stock recommendations for 15–16 Dec 2025, advising 'BUY' calls on several listed companies ahead of trading — notably Grasim Industries, Astral and Usha Martin. • The Hindu BusinessLine issued technical-analysis 'BUY' calls on Grasim Industries (quoted ₹2,837.10), Usha Martin (₹461.25) and Astral (₹1,463.40) in separate pieces dated 15 Dec 2025.

The Hindu BusinessLine issues short-term stock picks on Dec 14–17, 2025 (Usha Martin, Astral highlighted)

Consensus: The Hindu BusinessLine published short-format investment recommendations across three items between December 14 and 17, 2025, advising Indian investors on specific stocks and portfolio picks. • Dec 14, 2025: BusinessLine ran its 'Pick of Portfolio' newsletter edition on December 14 (newsletter format; specific stock(s) detailed in that edition).

CAT 2025 final answer key to be published after 187 objections; only one objection accepted (QA section)

Consensus: The CAT 2025 final answer key is being released imminently after candidates filed 187 objections; exam authorities accepted one objection affecting the Quantitative Ability (QA) section. • Disagreement: Indian Express reports the final key will be out tomorrow (source: indianexpress.com), while India Today states the final answers are being published today (source: indiatoday.in).

Edible Indian flowers used in traditional cooking

Consensus: India Today reports that a range of Indian flowers are edible and form part of traditional regional cooking, listing common varieties and their culinary uses. • No substantive disagreements: only the India Today guide is cited here; no other sources in the input dispute its descriptions or recommendations.

Four killed after XUV collides with parked truck on roadside near Rishikesh

Consensus: Near Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, an XUV rammed into a truck parked on the roadside, killing four people, police said. • Police response: Teams from Rishikesh police station and personnel from Shyampur and IDPL outposts reached the scene after receiving information.

ICICI Prudential AMC IPO: allotment due; grey-market premium signals 10–15% expected listing gain

Consensus: ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company (AMC) public offer has completed subscription and allotment activity is being finalised — India Today reports allotment status updates on 17 Dec 2025 and provides step‑by‑step checks for investors. • Grey market premium (GMP) widely reported as positive, indicating an expected listing gain for retail investors; India Today pieces from 16–17 Dec 2025 cite GMP estimates ranging from just over 10% to above 15%.

KKR sign Matheesha Pathirana; experts say he strengthens death bowling and completes attack

Kolkata Knight Riders acquired Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana at the IPL 2026 mini‑auction, according to India Today reports dated Dec 16–17, 2025. • Former India opener Robin Uthappa said Pathirana could be KKR's solution in the death overs, highlighting the bowler's ability to defend late overs.

India intensifies diplomacy in West Asia, emphasising reconstruction and peace

Consensus: India is signalling a more proactive diplomatic role in West Asia, positioning itself as a stakeholder in post-conflict reconstruction, peace-building and regional stability. • What India is doing: New outreach includes heightened diplomatic engagement with West Asian countries and international partners to coordinate reconstruction efforts and promote stability.

Researchers detect thorium-229 nuclear ‘tick’ in a solid by counting emitted electrons

Consensus: Scientists have detected the low-energy nuclear transition of thorium-229 embedded in a solid by measuring emitted electrons, a proof-of-principle step toward miniaturised nuclear clocks. • How: The team observed signatures of the thorium-229 nuclear excitation in a solid-state environment by counting electrons produced when the excited nuclear state decays (internal-conversion electrons), using a Mössbauer-spectroscopy-related approach.

Lok Sabha Day 13 (Dec 17, 2025): Question Hour, ministers to lay papers; debates on VB‑G RAM G and SHANTI Bills

Consensus: On Day 13 of the Parliament winter session (Dec 17, 2025) the Lok Sabha will begin with Question Hour, followed by the laying of papers by several ministers and debates on the VB‑G RAM G and SHANTI Bills. • Ministers scheduled to lay papers include Dr. Jitendra Singh, Arjun Ram Meghwal and Jitin Prasada, among others.

India poised for a 'GCC decade' as captive centres expand, says Bhartiya Converge CEO

Consensus: Bhartiya Converge CEO says India is entering an important decade for Global Capability Centres (GCCs), with captive centres expanding their role from cost arbitrage to strategic product engineering, R&D and digital transformation hubs. • Drivers: Growth is attributed to accelerating cloud adoption, automation, generative AI, and sustained demand from multinational corporations for India-based technical and knowledge services.

RBI staff body warns of shortage of small‑denomination notes across India, urges adequate supply

Consensus: RBI staff union/body has flagged a shortage of small‑denomination currency notes across India and has urged the Reserve Bank of India to ensure adequate supply. • Impact reported: The shortage is reportedly forcing people to purchase small notes at a premium from illegal vendors and is creating difficulties in everyday cash transactions despite rising digital payments.

Indian outlets publish daily and weekly horoscopes for multiple zodiac signs (Dec 8–17, 2025)

Consensus: IndianExpress and India Today published daily and weekly astrology forecasts for several zodiac signs between Dec 8 and Dec 17, 2025, offering guidance on career, finance, love and personal wellbeing. • IndianExpress issued multiple daily horoscopes: Taurus (Dec 8: financial decisions feel torn between heart and head; Dec 9: career/finance/love guidance; Dec 10: matters of the heart require sensitivity), Aries (Dec 10: let generosity guide you; Dec 17: ambition impresses partner), Leo (Dec 10: faith is a reliable anchor), Gemini (Dec 17: enjoy quality time with partner), Libra (Dec 17: first half of day supports personal needs), Sagittarius (Dec 17: steady love marked by shared curiosity), Aquarius (Dec 17: poised for profit with minimal effort), and Pisces (Dec 17: overthinking could cloud connections).

Indian outlets publish daily horoscopes for multiple zodiac signs (Nov–Dec 2025)

Consensus: Indian Express and India Today ran short daily horoscope pieces for specific zodiac signs between 24 November and 17 December 2025, offering brief astrological guidance on mood, relationships, finances, health and self-care. • Sources and dates: Indian Express published Pisces forecasts for 24–27 Nov and 26–27 Nov entries, a Gemini forecast for 28 Nov, and daily horoscopes for Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio and Capricorn on 17 Dec 2025. India Today published a Leo daily horoscope on 7 Dec 2025.

Critics say India’s proposed copyright fix for AI training falls short for creators

Consensus: The Indian government has proposed changing copyright rules to address use of copyrighted works for training artificial intelligence models; two opinion pieces in Indian Express and The Hindu BusinessLine agree the proposal is inadequate. • Shared concerns: Both outlets argue the draft or proposal is too broad or vague, risks leaving artists and authors without consent or compensation, and lacks clear safeguards on transparency, attribution and accountability for firms that use copyrighted material to train AI.

Delhi to deny fuel to vehicles without valid PUC from Dec 18; non-BS‑VI non-Delhi cars barred when GRAP‑3 in force

Consensus: The Delhi government announced measures to curb pollution ahead of the winter smog period — from December 18 petrol pumps in the capital will not refuel vehicles that do not hold a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and the city will enforce restrictions on entry of non-BS‑VI private vehicles from outside Delhi under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) when GRAP‑3 (and higher) conditions are declared. • Implementation detail in common reporting: The PUC-based refuelling ban was announced by Delhi authorities and repeated across multiple outlets (The Hindu, NDTV, Scroll, Hindustan Times). Several reports describe the move as part of GRAP activation during severe air-quality episodes.

Supreme Court asks CBI for report as it questions government’s continued suspension of defence firm over AgustaWestland links

Consensus: The Supreme Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to file a report and questioned the Union government’s decision to continue suspending business dealings with Defsys Solutions Pvt Ltd over alleged links to the AgustaWestland VVIP helicopter case. • The court told the Centre it must produce fresh material if it wishes to maintain the suspension, noting that a high court had earlier revoked the ban on the firm.

Gracie Hunt’s understated Instagram Story — pink tree and a brief Christmas message draw attention

Consensus: Gracie Hunt posted an Instagram Story showing a subtly decorated pink Christmas tree and a short message encouraging thoughtful gifting; the understated post caught fans’ attention. • The post’s quiet tone was described as consistent with her usual social media presence and resonated amid the crowded online holiday season.

India Today OSINT: Islamic State adapts online to survive platform takedowns

Consensus: An India Today open‑source investigation (OSINT) finds Islamic State (IS) maintains an active digital presence by adapting to takedowns—shifting content to encrypted messaging apps, lesser‑moderated platforms and anonymous tools to continue propaganda, recruitment and coordination. • Methods identified include rapid platform migration, use of coded language and multimedia (images/videos/memes), exploitation of mainstream apps for distribution, and reliance on peer‑to‑peer or ephemeral channels to evade moderation and surveillance.

Dense fog grips north India; IMD warnings, IndiGo travel advisory and tourist disruptions reported

Consensus: A core fog season has begun over large parts of north India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow warnings affecting about 40 districts in Uttar Pradesh as dense fog reduced visibility, prompting travel advisories from carriers and disrupting tourism and local movement. • Who reports what: Indian Express details the IMD orange/yellow warnings for around 40 UP districts; Hindustan Times reports reduced visibility at the Taj Mahal and a dip in Ayodhya footfall; Times of India and NDTV carry IndiGo advisories warning of potential flight delays across north and east India; The Hindu BusinessLine signals the start of the core fog season and notes isolated thunderstorms over Tamil Nadu.

Opposition, led by P. Chidambaram, objects to use of Hindi words in bill titles as 'affront' to non‑Hindi speakers

Consensus: Opposition MPs, led by Congress leader P. Chidambaram, raised objections in Parliament to the use of Hindi words in the titles of new Bills, calling the practice an "affront to non‑Hindi speaking people" and arguing it violates parliamentary norms. • Opposition's claim: MPs said Hindi phrases in bill names blur administration with political messaging and marginalise non‑Hindi speakers; they sought clarification and corrective action.

54 Indian soldiers missing since the 1971 war never returned home

Consensus: Fifty‑four Indian service members who went missing during the December 1971 India‑Pakistan war have not been returned and remain listed as missing in action. • Facts: The personnel disappeared in the 1971 conflict; while most prisoners from that war were repatriated, these 54 individuals are still unaccounted for decades later.

Punjab local-body results (17 Dec 2025): AAP sweeps Ludhiana; Akali Dal makes gains in villages

Counting of Punjab panchayat, panchayat samiti and zila parishad polls on 17 December 2025 showed contrasting outcomes across urban and rural areas. • Aam Aadmi Party recorded a decisive victory in Ludhiana municipal/urban wards, described in live reporting as an 'AAP storm' in the city.

Karnataka minister says government cannot force sugar mills to install weighbridges; faces backlash from MLAs

Consensus: In the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, a state minister told MLAs the government is unable to compel private sugar mills to install weighbridges to record cane purchases; this statement drew strong criticism from members of the House. • A number of MLAs demanded firmer administrative steps to protect farmers and ensure transparent cane procurement; one lawmaker reportedly urged cutting power supply to non‑compliant mills as a punitive measure.

U.S. threatens retaliation over new EU tech rules; EU says rules apply equally

Consensus: U.S. officials have warned they may retaliate against recent European Union technology regulations they describe as unreasonable; the European Commission says the rules are fair and apply equally to all companies operating in the EU. • Disagreement: U.S. characterises the EU measures as harmful to U.S. firms and has threatened countermeasures; the European Commission, via spokesman Thomas Regnier, rejects that framing, saying, “as we have made clear many times, our rules apply equally and fairly to all companies operating in the EU.”

Deepavali inscribed on UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Consensus: On 10 December 2025 UNESCO's Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage inscribed Deepavali (Diwali) on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. • The decision was taken at the Committee's 20th session hosted by India at the Red Fort, New Delhi; the inscription was marked by cultural programmes at the Red Fort and a public celebration at Dilli Haat.

Business leaders: AI is the future but most firms are not yet seeing meaningful returns

Consensus: Executives, advisors and seven recent executive and worker surveys agree that while leaders view artificial intelligence as strategically important, the majority of businesses are struggling to realise meaningful returns on their AI investments. • Challenges cited include integration difficulties, unclear or delayed ROI, costs, talent and skills gaps, and governance or safety concerns, according to company executives and advisors.

Judicial divergence creates jurisdictional maze under the Commercial Courts Act, 2015

Consensus: Indian courts and commentators agree there is persistent uncertainty and divergent judicial interpretation over what qualifies as a 'commercial dispute' under the Commercial Courts Act, 2015, producing a jurisdictional maze. • Disagreements: High Courts and some benches of the Supreme Court have applied different tests — some adopting a broad, purposive approach that treats matters connected to trade, commerce or business as commercial; others favour a narrow, transaction‑centric or subject‑matter approach that excludes certain contract, regulatory or public‑law disputes.

Centre approves Rs 29.20 crore for pre‑investment work on Maitri II; new Antarctic station expected by 2032

Consensus: The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) has approved Rs 29.20 crore for pre‑investment activities for Maitri II, a new Indian research station in Antarctica, with the project targetted to be ready by 2032. • Consensus: Maitri II will be India’s fourth research station on the Antarctic continent; planning follows decades after the establishment of India’s first permanent Antarctic facility, Dakshin Gangotri.

Data shows no clear nationwide farm-labour shortage caused by MGNREGS; shortages reported locally

Consensus: Multiple data sources and economists find no clear, economy‑wide causal link between the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and a nationwide shortage of farm labour. • Evidence: National labour‑market surveys and employment trackers show MGNREGS participation rose in some years, but agricultural labour availability at the aggregate level has not fallen in a way that clearly ties to MGNREGS alone.

True North Private Credit invests ₹75 crore in Samtel Avionics, with green‑shoe option of ₹140 crore

Consensus: True North Private Credit has made a ₹75 crore investment in Samtel Avionics, a company that makes avionics equipment. • Consensus: The transaction includes a green‑shoe option worth ₹140 crore that can be exercised to provide additional capital as Samtel Avionics scales.

ED files supplementary chargesheet in Kolkata migration-racket case, alleges Rs 50,000 paid for Indian documents and flags three-month age gap between brothers

Consensus: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a supplementary chargesheet in an ongoing migration-racket case in Kolkata, according to reporting by Indian Express. • The ED alleges that intermediaries charged Rs 50,000 for procuring Indian documents used in the migration scheme.

Suzlon and Yanara sign 306 MW wind-turbine contract in Rajasthan

Suzlon and Yanara have signed a contract for 306 MW of wind turbines to be deployed in Rajasthan, India. • The deal is reported as the second collaboration between the two companies in the same year.

Multiple recent cases of sexual assault on minors reported in Pune, Gujarat and Odisha; arrests made, investigations ongoing

Consensus: In the past days separate incidents of sexual assault/rape of minors were reported from Maval taluka (Pune, Maharashtra), Gandhinagar (Gujarat) and near Dhauli (Odisha). Police in each state have reported arrests or detentions and said investigations are ongoing. • Pune (Maval taluka): Police say a five-year-old girl was kidnapped, sexually assaulted and murdered; a suspect has been arrested and is in custody (Indian Express).

Ranveer Singh की 'धुरंधर' 12 दिनों में ₹400 करोड़ पार, 2025 की टॉप फिल्म बनने की दिशा में

कन्सेसस: Aaj Tak की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार Ranveer Singh की फिल्म 'धुरंधर' 12 दिनों में बॉक्स ऑफिस कलेक्शन ₹400 करोड़ पार कर चुकी है। • रिपोर्ट का दावा है कि यह कलेक्शन फिल्म को 2025 की टॉप‑बॉलीवुड फिल्म 'छावा' (Chaava / Chhaava) को पीछे छोड़ने की दौड़ में रखता है।

Kerala High Court Questions Lakshadweep Administration Over Lack of Veterinary Care, Seeks Explanation for Unfilled Posts

Consensus: The Kerala High Court has flagged a significant shortage of veterinary services in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep and has asked the Lakshadweep administration to explain why sanctioned veterinary posts remain unfilled. • Court action: The High Court directed the Union Territory administration to file an explanation/status report (affidavit) detailing sanctioned posts, vacancies and steps taken to provide veterinary care and animal disease control on the islands.

NCLT Kochi: Companies must apply to ROC before seeking rectification of register of members

Consensus: The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Kochi bench, held that a company must first approach the Registrar of Companies (ROC) for rectification of its register of members before approaching the NCLT. • Context: The bench emphasised the procedural route under company law and indicated that statutory remedies before the ROC should be exhausted prior to invoking the tribunal's jurisdiction.

US begins social‑media screening of H‑1B and H‑4 visa applicants from Dec 15; Indians among largest affected group

Consensus: From December 15, 2025 the US government expanded routine visa adjudication to include social‑media screening for H‑1B specialty‑worker and dependent H‑4 applicants, collecting and reviewing publicly available social media and other online information as part of background checks (reported across NDTV, India Today, The Hindu Business Line, Times of India, Hindustan Times, The Hindu). • Operational effect: Consular officers have begun issuing administrative processing requests (221(g) slips) more frequently as part of the expanded screening, which can delay final visa decisions while additional information is reviewed (reported by Times of India and India Today).

Doctor Who Supplied Ketamine in Matthew Perry Case Sentenced to 8 Months Home Confinement

Consensus: Dr. Mark Chavez was sentenced to eight months of home confinement after admitting he facilitated the supply of ketamine that was ultimately used in treatment linked to actor Matthew Perry's October 2023 death. • Chavez acknowledged providing ketamine to another medical professional who administered it to Perry; he avoided a prison term and expressed regret for the outcome.

Actress Mehreen Pirzada denies rumours of secret marriage, says she kept silent for two years

Consensus: Indian actress Mehreen Pirzada publicly denied reports that she had secretly married and said she had remained silent about the matter for two years. • India Today reported that the rumours were linked to alleged Wikipedia edits referencing a person named Chiranjiv Makwana; the outlet carried Pirzada's denial and clarification.

Erosion of Educational Federalism: Centralisation in University Vice‑Chancellor Appointments

Consensus: Legal observers and education stakeholders report a growing centralisation in the process for appointing university vice‑chancellors, which stakeholders say has weakened traditional state and university autonomy and altered the balance of educational federalism in India. • What is happening: Central bodies and ministries have asserted greater influence over search committees, shortlisting and appointment procedures; these moves have been challenged in courts and criticised by academic bodies as encroachments on institutional autonomy.

Karnataka High Court: Judicial officers may err but must not pass inconsistent orders

Consensus: The Karnataka High Court observed that while judicial officers can make mistakes, they should avoid passing orders that are inconsistent with prior decisions or with the record, because inconsistent orders undermine fairness and the administration of justice. • The court emphasised the need for consistency and clarity in judicial pronouncements so that litigants are not prejudiced and higher courts are not burdened with correcting avoidable contradictions.

Bumper IT buybacks help Aditya Birla Sun Life Nifty 50 ETF edge past Nifty 50 TR Index since FY start

Consensus: Aditya Birla Sun Life Nifty 50 ETF rallied nearly 12% since the financial year began on April 1 and finished a basis point (0.01%) ahead of the NSE Nifty 50 Total Return Index. • Primary cause cited: Heavy share buybacks by large IT companies lifted their stock prices, helping the ETF — which tracks Nifty 50 constituents — eke out a rare outperformance versus the index.

Indian Navy inducts MH-60R 'Romeo' helicopter to boost anti‑submarine capability

Consensus: On 17 December 2025 Indian media reported the Indian Navy has inducted the MH-60R 'Romeo' helicopter into service. • Platform: The MH-60R is a US‑made naval multi‑mission helicopter (Sikorsky/Lockheed Martin) configured for anti‑submarine warfare (ASW) and maritime surveillance.

India‑born entrepreneur Jyoti Bansal becomes US billionaire; development coincides with H‑1B visa curbs

Consensus: Jyoti Bansal, an India‑born entrepreneur and founder of software company Harness, has been reported to join the list of billionaires in the United States after a valuation event (report dated 17 Dec 2025). • Background: Bansal is originally from Rajasthan and is an alumnus of IIT Delhi; he built his career in Silicon Valley and founded Harness.

Bigg Boss 19 winner Gaurav Khanna launches YouTube channel, speaks about his journey

Gaurav Khanna, winner of Bigg Boss 19, launched an official YouTube channel on December 17, 2025, after winning the reality show. • He posted content and spoke openly about his journey on the show.

Govt tables SHANTI Bill to open India's nuclear power sector to private investment and operation

Consensus: The Union government on 16 December 2025 introduced the SHANTI Bill in the Lok Sabha to allow private companies to invest in, construct, own and operate nuclear power plants in India. • Consensus: The bill represents a major policy shift intended to mobilise private capital and accelerate expansion of India's nuclear energy capacity.

Indian Express publishes daily horoscopes for multiple zodiac signs (Dec 10–17, 2025)

Consensus: Indian Express ran a series of daily horoscope pieces between 10 and 17 December 2025 offering brief astrological predictions for different zodiac signs covering love, career, health and finances. • By date and sign: 10 Dec — Cancer (a cozy evening) and Sagittarius (romance highlighted); 12 Dec — Sagittarius (focus on goals softened by love); 13 Dec — Scorpio (efforts start yielding returns) and Libra (health emphasised); 17 Dec — a multi-sign roundup with detailed predictions for Aries, Sagittarius, Virgo, Aquarius, Taurus and others.

BITS Pilani receives $1 million endowment from US alumnus to fund female scholarships and merit‑cum‑need support

Consensus: BITS Pilani has received a $1 million endowment from a US‑based alumnus to fund scholarships for women and provide merit‑cum‑need financial support to students. • Purpose: The donation is intended to expand financial aid targeted at female students and to support students eligible for merit‑cum‑need assistance at BITS Pilani.

EPFO to enable instant PF withdrawals via UPI and ATMs in about three months, reports say

Consensus: Reports say the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is planning a facility to allow near-instant withdrawal of provident fund (PF) amounts to account-holders via UPI and ATMs, with the feature expected to roll out in roughly three months. • What this will do: The change would let members transfer PF balances to their bank accounts with a single click and, in some cases, withdraw cash immediately from ATMs, reducing current processing time for claims.

Chandrapur farmer sells kidney in Cambodia after Rs 1 lakh loan balloons to Rs 74 lakh; six arrested

Consensus: A farmer from Chandrapur, Maharashtra, has alleged that six private moneylenders drove him into a debt trap that grew from Rs 1 lakh to about Rs 74 lakh; he sold a kidney in Cambodia for around Rs 8 lakh to repay loans and has filed a police complaint. • Local police say they have registered a case and arrested six accused alleged to be the private moneylenders involved in the matter.

Two brothers shot dead in Northeast Delhi; reports cite personal enmity and heavy firing

Two brothers were shot dead in Northeast Delhi, according to news reports. • Reports attribute the attack to a personal enmity between the victims and the assailants.

Kochi model: opposing Israeli state violence while protecting Jewish heritage

Scroll.in reports that Kochi demonstrated it is possible to oppose Israeli state violence without demonising Jewish people and to honour the city’s Jewish history without endorsing occupation. • The article contrasts Kochi’s civic, historically informed response with more fractious scenes elsewhere (notably Bondi, Sydney), arguing Kochi shows a less polarising way to express solidarity and dissent.

Delhi High Court asks BJP leader Sanju Verma to consider removing tweet calling a former IPS officer 'blot on uniform'

Consensus: The Delhi High Court directed BJP leader Sanju Verma to consider removing a tweet in which she described a former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer as a 'blot on uniform' after a petition alleging defamatory publication was placed before the court. • The court's direction asked Verma to reflect on taking down the post; the matter arose from a legal challenge that contends the tweet is defamatory and injurious to the officer's reputation.

Fresh rains return to Chennai and coastal Tamil Nadu after Cyclone Ditwah; IMD forecasts dry spell after Dec 18

Consensus: Chennai and parts of Tamil Nadu's coast received fresh rains that broke a recent dry spell following Cyclone Ditwah, according to reports in The Hindu. • The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and local observations reported renewed light to moderate showers over coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry linked to residual moisture from the cyclone.

Moore Market’s decline in Chennai: maladministration led to a catastrophic change

Consensus: Years of maladministration left Chennai’s Moore Market in prolonged decline, and change came only after a catastrophic event, as reported by The Hindu. • Location and character: Moore Market, a long-standing commercial locale in Chennai, is portrayed as having two faces—historic/official significance on one hand and sustained neglect on the other.

Madhya Pradesh High Court Denies Anticipatory Bail in Windsor Hill Township Fraud; Flags Caution in Economic Offences

Consensus: The Madhya Pradesh High Court refused anticipatory bail to a project executor accused in the Windsor Hill Township fraud, observing that economic offences require a cautious judicial approach. • The matter relates to alleged economic wrongdoing in the Windsor Hill Township project involving around Rs 60 crore, according to reporting.

Steve Smith withdrawn on morning of Adelaide Test after dizziness and nausea

Consensus: On the morning of the Adelaide Test against England, Australian batter Steve Smith was unexpectedly withdrawn from the playing XI after experiencing dizziness and nausea. • Team medical staff assessed Smith and he did not take part in the match; the withdrawal came shortly before the scheduled start.

Google co‑founder Sergey Brin warns against using Gemini Live while driving; improved Gemini 3 public release expected soon

Consensus: Sergey Brin, Google’s co‑founder, advised drivers not to use the current public Gemini Live system while driving, calling its underlying model "ancient." • Brin said he relies on a more advanced internal Google model for complex queries and characterised the public release as behind the company’s internal capabilities.

Centre notifies ₹7,280-cr scheme to build domestic value chain for rare-earth (NdFeB) magnets

Consensus: The Union government has notified a ₹7,280-crore scheme, approved earlier by the Union Cabinet, to establish a domestic value chain that converts rare earth oxide into sintered NdFeB (neodymium‑iron‑boron) magnets. • Purpose: The scheme aims to create domestic manufacturing capacity for strategic and industrial applications — including electric vehicle motors, defence systems and renewable-energy technologies — reducing reliance on imports.

Dhurandhar film draws on real-life figures Chaudhary Aslam and Javed Khanani — both were killed; film dramatizes events amid speculation about intelligence roles

Consensus: The film Dhurandhar (Aditya Dhar) uses characters inspired by real people — Chaudhary Aslam (portrayed by Sanjay Dutt) and Javed Khanani — both of whom met violent deaths in real life. • Consensus: Indian Express reports say the movie fictionalises and alters details of those real events, turning complex real‑world actors into dramatized screen figures.

Bombay HC issues notice to Centre on plea seeking equal death benefits for Agniveer’s family

Consensus: The Bombay High Court has issued notice to the Union Ministry of Defence asking it to respond to a petition that alleges the family of an Agniveer was denied full death benefits and seeks parity with benefits given to regular service personnel. • Disagreement: The petitioner contends the denial is discriminatory; the Centre/Defence Ministry has been asked to file its reply and is expected to justify the differential treatment under existing rules (the ministry’s specific arguments will be set out in its response).

Steady rise in electricity-related fatalities in India, 2025 accidents largely from contact with live wires

Consensus: Data analysed by The Hindu show a steady rise in electricity-related fatality rates in India; most accidents recorded in 2025 were caused by accidental contact with live wires. • Source agreement and disputes: Reporting is drawn from a single analysis by The Hindu; no other sources in the package contradict this finding.

Four college students arrested for blocking school van and pointing toy gun at student in Gurugram

Consensus: Gurugram police arrested four men after they allegedly stopped a school van and pointed a toy gun at a student; the accused are students of different colleges, police said. • Consensus: Incident involved obstruction of a school vehicle and intimidation of a pupil using what was described by authorities as a toy firearm.

Varun Chakravarthy becomes highest‑rated Indian in ICC T20I bowling rankings, surpassing Jasprit Bumrah

Consensus: On 17 December 2025, Varun Chakravarthy reached a career‑high in the ICC T20I bowling rankings and became the highest‑rated Indian T20I bowler, overtaking Jasprit Bumrah. • Details: Chakravarthy is an Indian right‑arm leg‑spinner; the milestone reflects his recent T20I performances and movement in the ICC rankings.

Avatar: Fire and Ash gets 70% on Rotten Tomatoes; early reviews call it 'mind-numbingly boring'

Consensus: Rotten Tomatoes shows a 70% critic rating for Avatar: Fire and Ash; early reviews described in Indian Express label the film 'mind-numbingly boring' and criticise its pacing and storytelling. • Disagreements: While many early critics focus on narrative and pacing weaknesses, some reviews—reported alongside the consensus—acknowledge the film's visual effects and scale as strengths.

India vs South Africa, 4th T20I in Lucknow — Samson selection debated; Ekana pitch expected to favour batters

Consensus: The fourth T20 International between India and South Africa will be played at Lucknow's Ekana Stadium in mid‑December 2025; previews agree the Ekana surface should be batting‑friendly with pace for strokeplay and possible assistance for spinners later in the innings, while evening dew could aid sides chasing. • Selection debate: India Today highlights that Sanju Samson is a strong candidate for a recall to India's playing XI at Lucknow and may replace a current middle‑order/keeper option, while other previews do not commit to a definite XI and keep the incumbent combination as likely.

Flipkart targets IPO by end-2026

Consensus: Flipkart is targeting a public listing by end-2026, according to an Indian Express report citing company sources. • The timeline is described as a target rather than a binding commitment; the company has not filed a public prospectus or formal listing documents.

Japan's biggest banks and firms target India as growth market; M&A volume up 15% to nearly $90 billion

Consensus: Japanese banks and corporate buyers are increasingly targeting India for growth, with deal activity rising this year. • Deal volume: Total transactions targeting Indian companies — including mergers and acquisitions — climbed about 15% this year to almost $90 billion, according to The Hindu BusinessLine.

Supreme Court gives Centre six weeks to finalise rehabilitation scheme for officer cadets disabled during training

Consensus: The Supreme Court of India has granted the Central government six weeks to finalise and/or respond to recommendations on a scheme for rehabilitation of officer cadets who sustained disabilities during military training. • Several outlets (Hindustan Times, The Indian Express) report the order as an extension for the Centre to reply to recommendations; LiveLaw notes the matter arose from a suo motu judicial proceeding concerning disabled cadets.

Delhi High Court holds seller of counterfeit 'HERO' goods in contempt; orders payment to NGO and Hero InvestCorp

Consensus: The Delhi High Court found a seller of counterfeit "HERO" branded goods to have obstructed a court‑ordered search and directed the seller to pay ₹2.5 lakh to an NGO for contempt, while also awarding damages to Hero InvestCorp, the brand owner, as reported by LiveLaw. • Disagreements: Only one source (LiveLaw) is provided; there are no conflicting reports in the supplied material.

Triumph unveils Tracker 400 — flat‑track‑inspired roadster added to 400cc line-up

Consensus: Triumph Motorcycles unveiled the Tracker 400, a flat‑track‑inspired roadster that joins its 400cc family. (India Today, 17 Dec 2025) • Design: The model is described as a roadster with flat‑track styling cues; publication photos highlight a minimalist, upright stance and scrambler-like elements.

Bengaluru video shows alleged indifference as 34-year-old man collapses; wife says 'Humanity failed'

Consensus: A video from Bengaluru shows a 34-year-old man collapsing and, according to multiple accounts, receiving little or no immediate help from hospital staff and passersby; his wife posted the footage and criticised the response, saying 'Humanity failed.' • Reported sequence: The man suffered a medical emergency (reported as a heart attack), was taken to or reached the vicinity of a hospital where bystanders and some staff did not intervene promptly, and was later involved in an accident, according to the report.

Why sudden breakups become a mental health challenge: How a 34-year-old coped with relationship loss

Consensus: Sudden relationship breakups can cause acute mental-health symptoms—shock, intense rumination, anxiety, sleep disruption and difficulty functioning—and may require active coping or professional support. • Case example: A 34-year-old Indian police officer described initial numbness and distress after an abrupt breakup and gradually recovered using therapy, social support and structured self-care.

Delhi High Court issues multiple interim rulings and directions across cases on exam corrections, complaints, investigation powers, bank action and Apple’s CCI audit challenge

Consensus: The Delhi High Court recently heard and passed orders or sought replies in several unrelated matters, delivering rulings on procedural issues and directing parties or regulators to place responses on record. • Exam forms: The court held that post-failure claims for correction in examination application forms are not entertainable and emphasised candidates’ responsibility to verify details (reported by LiveLaw).

Gujarat High Court declines to hear mosque's anticipatory plea, says 'mere apprehension' no cause of action

Consensus: The Gujarat High Court refused to entertain an anticipatory petition filed by a mosque seeking protection against possible action by authorities, holding that a 'mere apprehension' does not constitute a cause of action. • Court reasoning: The bench said the petition was based on hypothetical fears and directed that statutory and other legal remedies be availed if concrete action is taken; the court will consider relief when an actual cause of action arises.

Aurionpro wins iCashpro cash-management platform deal with a major Indian public sector bank

Consensus: Aurionpro has secured a contract to deploy its iCashpro cash-management platform for a major Indian public sector bank. • The iCashpro platform will provide digital services including payments, collections, liquidity management, virtual accounts, reconciliation, government business and real-time reporting.

Quote of the Day: Abraham Lincoln on the schoolroom shaping future government

Consensus: India Today published a 'Quote of the Day' (17 Dec 2025) featuring Abraham Lincoln’s remark that the philosophy taught in schoolrooms in one generation becomes the philosophy of government in the next. • Source: The item appears in India Today's education/GK section and attributes the line to Abraham Lincoln.

Wildlife teams working to tranquillise and capture roaming tiger in Wayanad village

Consensus: A tiger was reported roaming in a village in Wayanad, Kerala, and wildlife teams are conducting an on-site operation to tranquillise and capture it. • A rapid-action team is camping at the location to coordinate the operation; cage traps are being set up to capture the animal.

Gauhati High Court orders refund of Rs 49 lakh earnest money to third‑party buyer of vehicle sold during subsistence of loan

Consensus: The Gauhati High Court upheld a decree directing that Rs 49 lakh paid as earnest money to a third‑party purchaser be refunded because the vehicle had been sold while a prior loan/hypothecation on it subsisted, and the buyer therefore had no ownership right in the asset. • Background: The dispute arose after a vehicle subject to a charge in favour of a lender was transferred to a third party; the purchaser paid Rs 49 lakh as earnest money. A suit was filed seeking return of the deposit, and the trial court granted relief. The High Court affirmed that decree.

Tata Chemicals raises ₹1,500 crore via listed NCD allotment

Consensus: Tata Chemicals Ltd (an Indian chemical maker in the Tata group) allotted 1,50,000 listed, unsecured, rated, redeemable, taxable, non‑cumulative non‑convertible debentures (NCDs) of face value ₹1,00,000 each for cash, raising ₹1,500 crore. • No substantive disagreements reported across available coverage; the single cited report from The Hindu BusinessLine provides the allotment details.

RSS worker faces social boycott in Raisen after eating at Dalit household; refuses panchayat's 'purification' order

Consensus: In Pipariya Puaria village, Raisen district (Madhya Pradesh), RSS karyakarta Bharat Raj Dhakad ate at the home of Santosh Parole, a Dalit, during a shraddha ceremony; a video of the meal circulated and led to a community backlash. • A village panchayat convened under sarpanch Bhagwan Singh Patel reportedly declared the act a 'sin' and ordered ritual 'purification'—including bathing in the Ganga and organising a public bhandara.

Ancient skull study reveals new details about early humans

Consensus: Researchers reported that analysis of an ancient human skull has revealed previously unknown anatomical details that shed light on early Homo and the evolution of our species. • What happened: Scientists examined and published findings from an ancient skull, using modern imaging and comparative anatomy to identify features not previously recorded.

RBI governor signals policy rates to remain low for an extended period

Consensus: The report says Reserve Bank of India Governor Shaktikanta Das signalled that policy interest rates are likely to stay low for a 'long period', indicating a continued accommodative stance. • The report quotes Malhotra as saying the RBI's economic forecast did not factor in potential effects of trade agreements currently under negotiation.

Kanpur couple held under 'digital arrest' for 70 days, duped of ₹53 lakh

Consensus: Aaj Tak/India Today reports that an elderly couple in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, were confined to their home for about 70 days by fraudsters and defrauded of ₹53 lakh using a scheme described as a 'digital arrest'. • The perpetrators allegedly monitored the couple's movements and used digital/phone-based tactics to convince them to transfer money.

IIT Jodhpur: CSE and AI‑driven programmes top choices in this admission cycle

Consensus: Indian Express reports that Computer Science (CSE) and AI‑driven programmes at IIT Jodhpur were the most opted programmes by students in the current admission cycle. • Source: The finding is based on admissions/preferences reported by Indian Express on choices made at IIT Jodhpur.

Parliament approves additional fertiliser subsidy as urea demand rises after good monsoon

Consensus: The Centre told Parliament that demand for urea has risen following a good monsoon, prompting a need for extra expenditure on fertiliser subsidies; Rajya Sabha cleared an additional allocation to meet the shortfall. • What officials said: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary explained in Parliament that fertiliser expenses and urea use have increased, underpinning the request for supplementary funds.

RBI clears HDFC Bank and its units to acquire up to 9.5% stake in IndusInd Bank

Consensus: The Reserve Bank of India has granted approval for HDFC Bank and its units to acquire a combined stake of up to 9.5% in IndusInd Bank. • Scope: The permission covers HDFC Bank and its group entities (referred to as 'units' in some reports) to raise their shareholding to the 9.5% ceiling.

Rajasthan High Court quashes 31-year-old SC/ST Act conviction, says caste abuse inside closed shop not in 'public view'

Consensus: The Rajasthan High Court set aside a 31-year-old conviction under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, holding that caste abuse that occurred inside a closed shop was not made in 'public view' and therefore did not attract the statutory offence as interpreted in the case. • The High Court found insufficient legal basis to sustain the earlier conviction and sentence imposed nearly three decades ago, and accordingly quashed the judgment against the accused.

Women in a Bihar village make up to 10 trips daily to fetch drinking water

NDTV reports that women in a village in Bihar make as many as 10 trips a day to collect drinking water. • The report states many women walk about 2 kilometres twice daily to fetch water for their families.

Carey century, Khawaja rescue lift Australia on Day 1 of Ashes at Adelaide

Consensus: India Today reports that on Day 1 of the 2025–26 Ashes at Adelaide (17 Dec 2025), Alex Carey scored a century and Usman Khawaja provided key support to lift Australia after an early, aggressive spell from England fast bowler Jofra Archer. • The same report describes the match as played on a 'day of remembrance'; the article does not detail the nature of the remembrance.

Environment ministry's FAC approves ex-post facto diversion of ~68 ha of protected Aravalli forest sought by HSVP

The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) of the Union environment ministry approved ex-post facto diversion of about 67.68 hectares of protected Aravalli forest that had been sought by the Haryana Shahari Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP). • HSVP initially submitted the proposal for retrospective approval of 22.35 ha; during FAC proceedings the area under request was increased to 67.68 ha and the committee approved the larger area.

Conference on ‘Digital Makeover in Engineering’ opens in Vizag

A conference titled 'Digital Makeover in Engineering' began in Visakhapatnam (Vizag). • The event brought together academics, industry professionals and students to discuss digital transformation in engineering education and practice.

Heavy rains wash iron‑rich soil into water, turning Iran's Hormuz coast red, say scientists

Consensus: Scientists and local authorities say heavy overnight rains on Iran's Hormuz Island washed red, iron‑rich soil and sediment into coastal waters, causing the sea to appear blood‑red. • Timing and place: The phenomenon was reported along the Hormuz coast in the Strait of Hormuz on/around 17 December 2025 after unusual downpours.

British-era silver bars seized in Madras (Dec 1975)

Consensus: In December 1975, silver bars believed to date from the British colonial period were seized in Madras (now Chennai), as reported in The Hindu's 17 December 1975 archive entry. • The archived notice describes the items as 'British-time' silver bars; the report does not provide further detail on provenance or intended use.

High speeds and fog create recurring safety hazards on Yamuna Expressway linking Delhi and Uttar Pradesh

Consensus: Dense winter fog combined with motorists travelling at high speeds has repeatedly created dangerous conditions on the Yamuna Expressway, a key highway linking Delhi, Greater Noida and Agra in Uttar Pradesh, leading to multi‑vehicle collisions, injuries and fatalities. • Location and timing: Most incidents occur on the long, straight stretches of the toll expressway during early‑morning hours in the fog season when visibility drops sharply.

Tap the ‘demographic dividend’ of India’s elderly by enabling paid work

Consensus: Commentators argue that older Indians who want to re-enter or continue in the workforce should be enabled to do so — this can be a productive ‘demographic dividend’ rather than a social burden. • Core claim: Allowing elders to work (through flexible hours, part-time roles, reskilling and removal of statutory or market barriers) will not necessarily displace jobs for younger workers.

Indian Navy commissions diving support craft A20 in Kerala

Consensus: The Indian Navy has commissioned a new diving support craft, designated A20, into service. • Location: The commissioning took place in Kerala, according to reporting by The Hindu and Hindustan Times.

English emigrants to Canada — report from The Hindu archive (Dec 17, 1925)

Consensus: A Dec. 17, 1925 item in The Hindu archives reports English citizens emigrating to Canada, describing the movement as notable at that time. • The archived report outlines reasons given for emigration and the experiences of those who left England for Canada (opportunities and conditions are described in the piece).

Delhi to bar fuel sales to vehicles without valid PUC certificate from Dec 18

Consensus: Delhi authorities have ordered that petrol and diesel pumps will refuse fuel to vehicles that do not hold a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, effective December 18. • Scope: The measure applies at retail fuel outlets across Delhi; motorists must present a valid PUC certificate to obtain fuel from that date.

Physical brawl breaks out in Mexican Congress as lawmakers pull hair and shove each other

Consensus: During a session of Mexico's Congress, female lawmakers engaged in a physical altercation, pulling each other's hair, shoving and exchanging blows, interrupting proceedings. • A male lawmaker attempted to intervene and separate them; more lawmakers then rushed toward the podium as chaos unfolded.

Baul tradition in Bangladesh under strain as radicalism and social change reduce performances

Consensus: Reporting indicates Bangladesh's Baul musical tradition — itinerant mystic singers who use instruments like the ektara — is facing a visible decline amid rising religious conservatism, threats to performers and changing social conditions. • Practitioners and cultural activists say Baul gatherings and public performances have fallen, with some singers reporting intimidation, reduced audiences and fewer opportunities to perform.

Madhuri Dixit and Nagesh Kukunoor on crafting Mrs. Deshpande

Consensus: In a recent interview with The Hindu, actor Madhuri Dixit and director Nagesh Kukunoor discussed their collaboration on the film Mrs. Deshpande, which deals with a story involving a serial killer; Kukunoor spoke about his narrative choices while Dixit described performance challenges. • Madhuri Dixit said she struggled to get the film's tone right and to balance the character's demands with her public image as a star.

Class 11 student turns waste into ‘green gold’, wins top honour for sustainable farming innovation

Consensus: Indian Express reports that a Class 11 student in Chandigarh converted waste into a value-added agricultural product described as ‘green gold’ and won a top honour for a sustainable farming innovation. • What happened: the student developed a process to repurpose waste into a useful farming input (described in the report as ‘green gold’) and was recognised with a prize for the innovation.

DDA launches Karmayogi Awaas Yojana, offers 25% discount on Narela flats for serving and retired government employees

Consensus: The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has launched the Karmayogi Awaas Yojana and is offering a 25% discount on flats at its Narela residential project for serving and retired government employees. • Eligibility and scope: Both reports state the concession applies to government employees and pensioners; flats are located in Narela, Delhi.

Delhi‑NCR seismic risk: experts agree region faces significant earthquake hazard; debate over immediacy and policy response

Consensus: Seismologists and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) place Delhi‑NCR in a high‑hazard category (seismic zone IV) and note the region is affected by the Himalayan plate boundary and faults in the Indo‑Gangetic plain, making damaging earthquakes a credible risk. • Consensus: Local geology — thick recent alluvial deposits — can amplify shaking across large parts of the Delhi metropolitan area and neighbouring towns, increasing potential damage to buildings and infrastructure.

Adobe upgrades Firefly with text-driven video edits and new AI models

Consensus: Adobe has upgraded its Firefly generative AI platform to add text-driven video-editing capabilities and new AI models. • What Adobe says: The company describes the additions as enabling users to edit video via text prompts and to generate higher-quality visual content using improved models.

Bangladesh election timetable announced amid muted pre‑poll atmosphere and questions over security and trust

Consensus: Bangladesh’s Election Commission last week published a timetable for the long‑awaited general election; political stakeholders formally acknowledged the schedule. • Shared reporting notes that, despite the announcement, public engagement and pre‑poll enthusiasm remain low and media buzz is muted.

Study finds recently evolved sharks and rays face higher extinction risk

Consensus: A new scientific study finds that younger (more recently evolved) species of sharks and rays are at disproportionately higher risk of extinction, driven by small geographic ranges, low population sizes and human pressures such as fishing and habitat loss. • Scope and findings: The research, reported by India Today, analysed evolutionary age, range size and threat status across elasmobranchs (sharks and rays) and concluded that recently emerged lineages are more vulnerable than older, more widespread relatives.

Lt Governor V.K. Saxena clears land hurdle for DMRC’s Rithala–Narela–Kundli metro corridor

Consensus: Delhi Lt Governor V.K. Saxena has approved a land-related clearance that removes a hurdle for the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation’s (DMRC) proposed Rithala–Narela–Kundli metro corridor, allowing the project to move forward. • Scope: The corridor will link Rithala (Delhi) with Narela and Kundli (Haryana), improving suburban connectivity between Delhi and the northern parts of the National Capital Region.

Actor Nimrat Kaur says she chooses to remain single at 40+; psychologist comments on marital pressures

Consensus: Indian actor Nimrat Kaur publicly stated she prefers to remain single after turning 40; the article quotes her remark that “people are most unsettled and unhinged in marriages.” • Expert view: A psychologist interviewed in the piece contextualised her choice, noting societal pressure to marry and saying singlehood can be a conscious, healthy choice for some individuals.

Geyser (water heater) shows 5 warning signs before a blast; safety steps to follow

Consensus: Consumer guidance from the referenced report lists five common warning signs that often precede electric geyser failures or explosions and provides safety steps for households to reduce risk. • The five warning signs reported are: persistent unusual noises (knocking or popping), visible water leakage or dripping, discoloured or rusty water, frequent or uncontrolled temperature spikes, and a malfunctioning or leaking pressure‑relief valve / visible tank corrosion.

Two arrested in separate cases — gunpoint car robbery in Chandigarh and kidnapping-robbery in Gurugram

Consensus: Police sources in two reports say two accused have been arrested in relation to recent violent thefts in the Chandigarh–Gurugram region. • Chandigarh case (Indian Express): Two persons were held in connection with a gunpoint car robbery; the stolen vehicle was recovered, police said.

New Heartbeat of Work: Human‑First Leadership in a Technology‑Driven World

Consensus: As technology (AI, automation, hybrid tools) reshapes workplaces, leaders must prioritise human elements—empathy, psychological safety, inclusive culture and purposeful work—to sustain productivity and trust. • Organisational priorities highlighted include investing in reskilling/upskilling, redesigning jobs and workflows around human capabilities, and aligning technology adoption with ethical and legal obligations.

UP woman inspector questions brother-sister at Varanasi temple, tells girl 'don't roam without a guardian'; video sparks row, officer suspended

Consensus: A viral video shows a woman police inspector in Varanasi questioning a young woman and a male companion at a temple, reportedly mistaking them for an unmarried couple and telling the woman not to 'roam without a guardian'. • The footage prompted public criticism and disciplinary action; local police subsequently removed/suspended the inspector from duty.

Tax havens ease cheap debt for capital‑intensive Indian sectors, analysts say

Consensus: Tax havens enable large companies—particularly in capital‑intensive sectors such as telecom and renewables—to raise debt more cheaply by exploiting tax arbitrage and wider pools of global liquidity, according to an analysis in The Hindu BusinessLine. • How it works: Firms use offshore entities, special purpose vehicles and cross‑border debt structures to reduce withholding taxes, secure interest deductibility and access lenders in low‑cost jurisdictions, lowering overall borrowing costs.

Smartphone prices set to rise about 6.9% in 2026 as chip shortages push component costs up

Consensus: A recent report, cited by India Today, projects smartphone retail prices could rise about 6.9% in 2026 as global semiconductor shortages and higher component costs feed into device pricing. • Cause: The projected increase is attributed to tighter chip supplies and rising input costs for manufacturers, which are expected to be passed on to consumers.

Japan’s Mizuho to acquire over 60% stake in India’s Avendus Capital; KKR and co‑founder Ranu Vohra to divest

Consensus: Japan’s Mizuho Financial Group will buy a little over 60% stake in Avendus Capital, an India‑headquartered investment bank and asset manager. • Private equity firm KKR has agreed to sell its stake in Avendus to Mizuho, and Avendus co‑founder and Executive Vice Chairman Ranu Vohra will also divest his shareholding.

Report: Pakistan official to visit Washington for talks on new Gaza peace plan

Consensus: Indian media outlet India Today reports that a Pakistani official will travel to Washington, D.C., to discuss a newly proposed Gaza peace plan (report dated 17 December 2025). • Purpose: The visit is reported to be focused on talks with US counterparts over the details and support for the new Gaza peace proposal.

Trump and Zelensky say peace talks advancing; Ukraine may present proposals to Russia within days

Consensus: Multiple outlets report that US former president Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have signalled movement toward a negotiated end to the Russia‑Ukraine war, saying talks are progressing and a deal may be nearer than before. • Donald Trump said he had “very good talks” with Zelensky, described a Ukraine peace deal as “closer than ever” and offered Ukraine security guarantees, according to press reports and video of his remarks.

Jaish operative arrested near Akhnoor; separate Udhampur encounter kills policeman as searches for terrorists continue in J&K

Consensus: Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir carried out multiple operations on Dec 15–16, 2025 — an intruder identified as a Jaish-e-Mohammed operative was arrested near the International Border (IB) at Akhnoor and separate firing and searches took place in Udhampur district. • Arrest at Akhnoor: Border Security Force (BSF) and local police detained an intruder near the IB in Akhnoor; police say an M-5 rifle was recovered and searches were launched in adjoining areas.

Men’s tennis body allows 10-minute cooling break at WBGT ≥30.1°C; matches can be paused or stopped

Consensus: The men’s professional tennis governing body (ATP) has adopted new heat guidelines allowing a 10-minute cooling break at the end of the second set when the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) reaches 30.1°C or higher, if a player requests it. • The WBGT is used to measure heat stress in direct sunlight; the break is intended to reduce heat-related risk to players.

Video of Italy PM Giorgia Meloni reacting to Mozambique president's height goes viral

Consensus: A short video of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni meeting Mozambique's president has circulated widely after it captured Meloni appearing surprised by the president's height; multiple Indian outlets labelled the clip 'viral'. • Where/when: The encounter took place in Rome during an official meeting (covered by broadcasters); outlets published the clip and commentary around the same time.

US military strikes three vessels in eastern Pacific; says eight killed

Consensus: On Monday the US military carried out strikes on three vessels in the eastern Pacific, saying the boats were suspected narco‑trafficking ships. • The US said the strikes killed eight people; video released by US forces shows a ‘kinetic strike’ against at least one vessel.

Centre tells Lok Sabha about infiltration arrests and border fencing across India

Home Ministry told the Lok Sabha that 23,926 'infiltrators' have been arrested since 2014 across India’s borders. • No infiltrators have been reported on the India‑China border, the Centre said.

विराट को भीड़ से बचाती दिखीं अनुष्का शर्मा; एयरपोर्ट वीडियो वायरल, फैंस ने तारीफ की

संघर्ष: 17 दिसंबर 2025 को सोशल मीडिया पर एक वीडियो वायरल हुआ जिसमें अभिनेत्री अनुष्का शर्मा अपने पति और भारतीय क्रिकेटर विराट कोहली को एयरपोर्ट पर भीड़ से अलग करती दिखीं। • घटना का स्थान: रिपोर्टों में इसे किसी एयरपोर्ट पर होने की जानकारी दी गई है; स्रोत विशेष एयरपोर्ट का नाम नहीं बताते।