India has joined 140 countries in issuing biometric e-passports, containing an RFID chip with demographic and biometric data. This upgrade improves identity authentication, streamlines travel, and aligns with global standards. Other countries, like the US, Canada, and Japan, have also adopted e-passports for security and efficiency.
Ranveer Singh's much-awaited film, Dhurandhar, has exceeded all expectations by opening near the Rs 30 crore mark on its first day. It has even surpassed the first-day collections of Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda's Saiyaara. The film has also become Ranveer Singh's highest opener of his career, beating the records of his previous blockbusters like Padmaavat and Simmba.
Mammootty makes a strong comeback with his role as a serial killer inspired by Cyanide Mohan in Kalamkaval. The film has grossed Rs 4.75 crore on its opening day, with a 7.8 IMDb rating and positive reviews for its intense theme and masterclass performances. Occupancy rates have been higher than the big Bollywood release Dhurandhar, with the Mammootty-Vinayakan duo praised.
Pakistan and Afghanistan engaged in heavy cross-border fire, blaming each other for the attack. This comes amidst failed peace talks and ongoing tensions. Regional efforts to ease tensions have been ongoing, but Pakistan's main concern is the presence of Afghan-based militants launching attacks. The recent violence, the deadliest since the Taliban's rise to power, resulted in multiple casualties.
Donald Trump received the FIFA Peace Prize trophy from Gianni Infantino at the World Cup draw. Trump, a self-proclaimed "peacemaker," was recognized for his efforts towards global peace. The prize, introduced by FIFA, honors individuals promoting peace and unity.
Maruti Suzuki is launching its first EV, the eVitara, to compete with Hyundai Creta Electric. The two cars have similar sizes but differ in battery, range, and acceleration. The Creta Electric has a pixelated-pattern front grille, unique alloy wheel design, and an EV-specific user interface. The eVitara has a striking front fascia, closed grille, and thin LED headlamps.
India Inc is making progress in renewable energy as the Ministry of Renewable and New Energy introduces new policies to drive implementation. Adani Green and KPI Green secure large contracts, while NTPC and Suzlon also make significant moves towards meeting the 2030 target.
VinFast, a Vietnamese automaker, is expanding its facility in Tamil Nadu to introduce electric scooters and buses in India. The scooters will be available in three segments with a total of nineteen models. Initial reviews suggest they may not be as good as top Indian models, but VinFast will need to compete with them to succeed in the Indian market.
India Bike Week, the largest biking festival in the country, has moved from Goa to Panchgani, Maharashtra due to changes in the election schedule. The new venue offers a stunning view of the Ghats and the organizers are confident about accommodations and road conditions. This move also opens up the opportunity for IBW to become a travelling event.
The 10th Asia Artist Awards 2025 ceremony is set to take place today, featuring top K-pop and K-drama stars. Lee Junho and Jang Wonyoung will be the main MCs, with 23 teams performing and collaboration stages. The event, organized by Star News, will be broadcasted on MTN and SET, with international fans able to watch on Weverse. The lineup includes artists like ATEEZ, MONSTA X, and Stray Kids.
Former Pentagon official Michael Rubin believes Trump should be awarded a Nobel Prize for bringing India and Russia closer together. The recent State visit of Russian President Putin to India, warmly welcomed by Prime Minister Modi, has sparked discussions about their strengthened friendship. However, Rubin questions if this is due to animosity towards Trump's criticism.
In the early 1970s, UK's Chancellor of the Exchequer Anthony Barber implemented a "dash for growth" strategy, which involved easy credit terms and massive tax cuts. However, this backfired due to an unexpected oil shock and miners' strike. Similarly, in 1995-1997, Bank Indonesia's rate cuts led to a record low growth of -13% during the Asian crisis.
The middle phase of life, typically around 50 or 60, is often ignored but it is a crucial time for self-discovery. As external pressures lessen, a new inner voice emerges, prompting deeper reflections on what truly matters. This is an opportunity to break away from societal expectations and pursue a more authentic and fulfilling life.
TVS Motor Company's fifth edition of TVS MotoSoul attracted over 8,000 riders worldwide, featuring new motorcycles, custom builds, and immersive experiences. The event debuted the Ronin Agonda and unveiled the TVS Apache RTX Anniversary Edition, celebrating the iconic Apache nameplate's 20-year legacy.
Incubate Fund Asia is set to launch Fund IV in early 2026, aiming to invest in 10-15 startups in India and Southeast Asia. The fund has a sector-agnostic approach but is keen on grassroots-level scale segments like health-tech, agritech, fintech, and e-commerce.
India and Russia have signed an MoU to build a large urea manufacturing facility in Russia, with an annual production capacity of 1.8 to 2 MT. This will secure a stable supply of soil nutrients for India and lower import expenses. Discussions are ongoing for the technical and financial aspects, and the JV will rely on ammonia supply from Togliattiazot JSC.
Civil Aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu expects flight operations to return to normal within three days as new FDTL rules are put on hold. An inquiry has been ordered into IndiGo's crew shortage crisis and the airline has been directed to reduce passenger inconvenience.
ALPA warns DGCA against compromising safety for commercial pressures, urges withdrawal of waivers granted to IndiGo. The association reminds the regulator that safety cannot be weighed against commercial pressures and calls for investigation into whether a pilot scarcity narrative is being created to weaken the rules.
Brands are capitalizing on the popularity of content platforms, with consumers spending 125 minutes daily on them. Vishal Saga of Pocket FM emphasizes the importance of entertainment in this trend. Balaji Telefilms' Nitin Burman shares their strategy for brand partnerships on their mobile-first platform.
Indian Railways' punctuality has improved with 80% on-time performance across the network and 25 out of 70 divisions recording over 90% punctuality. This surpasses the punctuality levels of many European networks, including Germany's Deutsche Bahn.
India has the potential to increase exports to Russia by seven times if it can tap into the markets for food, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and machinery. However, the current trade relationship is heavily reliant on oil, leading to a trade deficit. To boost exports, India and Russia must establish a modern rupee-rouble settlement system and improve ease of trade in competitive sectors.
The government's decision to reduce GST on micronutrient fertilisers from 12% to 5% has lowered production costs for small and marginal farmers, according to fertilizer minister JP Nadda. This reduction in taxes on critical raw materials and bio-pesticides will also promote sustainable and residue-free agriculture, while encouraging the adoption of precision agriculture techniques.
The Lok Sabha passed the Health Security and National Security Cess Bill, 2025, which will impose a dedicated cess on pan masala manufacturing units to fund national security and public health systems. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman clarified that the cess will be shared with states and will not affect GST revenues.
India and Russia have committed to strengthening economic ties until 2030 by removing trade barriers and promoting connectivity. They have signed an MoU for a urea plant and agreed to use national currencies for trade. Putin promised uninterrupted energy supplies and discussed a potential second nuclear power plant.
Equity benchmarks extend gains for second day, Nifty closes at 26,186.45, up 0.59%, Sensex at 85,712.37, up 0.52%. RBI cuts repo rate by 25 bps to 5.25%, maintains neutral stance. Banks and financial services stocks lead rise. Nifty down 0.08% for the week, Sensex flat. Experts say rate cut and liquidity infusion will boost market confidence. Global markets
Air India surpassed IndiGo in the first week of December thanks to their timely adherence, moderate goals, and practical approach to new FDTL norms. IndiGo's extensive cancellations were due to their high utilization and insufficient staffing.
SEBI has banned Avadhut Sathe and his wife from the securities market and ordered the impounding of ₹546.16 crore for providing unregistered investment advice through their equity training venture. The couple is also restrained from offering any investment advisory or related training activities.
As the year ends, it's crucial to not only prioritize work and future plans, but also your employee benefits. Don't forget to use any remaining benefits, like LTA and paid leaves, before they expire. Other perks, such as telephone reimbursements and health check-ups, can also save you money. Make sure to review and understand your benefits before the year ends.
The NHCX is a digital platform that aims to simplify health insurance claims by uniting insurers and hospitals. Tapan Singhel, CEO of Bajaj General Insurance and chairman of General Insurance Council, believes that the common framework and NHCX will speed up claims and increase transparency.
Despite a 25-basis-point repo rate cut by RBI, banks are facing challenges in reducing deposit rates. Public sector banks will not change deposit rates immediately, but may cut them in January. The credit-deposit ratio is high, indicating strong credit demand and slow deposit growth.
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced measures to inject Rs 1.5 lakh crore into the system, including bond purchases and a USD/INR Buy Sell swap, to provide short-term relief to the bond market and support the rupee.
The rise of private labels and repertoire buying in India is changing consumer behavior, making brand loyalty a thing of the past. The growth of small and regional brands, D2C brands, and content creators are contributing to this shift. To adapt, marketers must utilize AI tools and implement a four-step shift towards continuous intelligence.
British American Tobacco (BAT) has sold a 9% stake in ITC Hotels for Rs 3,820 crore to reduce its debt. This is the third time in two years that BAT has sold its stake in ITC group companies. BAT CEO Tadeu Luiz Marroco clarified that the sale was not a strategic move and the funds will be used to support their debt reduction plan.
The bond market initially responded positively to the RBI's rate cut, but yields rose later due to profit booking. The 10-year benchmark bond yield fell to 6.45% before settling at 6.49%, down 2 basis points. Analysts predict this to be the final rate cut and the announced OMO amount was lower than expected. The governor also addressed concerns about bond transmission.
India and Russia condemn terrorism and call for global unity against it. They express their commitment to prevent and counter terrorism in all forms, including cross-border movement and financing. The two leaders also stress the need for firm implementation of UN resolutions and the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.
Tax notice due to mismatch in ITR and AIS. Check AIS against bank statements or Form 26AS. If correct, file revised return by Dec 31, 2025. Pay advance tax by Dec 15 to avoid interest. Transferring mutual funds to brother not taxable. Ulip maturity proceeds taxable as capital gains if premium exceeds Rs 2.5 lakh or 10% of sum assured.
During his visit to India, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the importance of signing a preferential trade agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union. This agreement will boost trade and cooperation in areas like AI, with the goal of reaching $100 billion in trade by 2030. Putin urged for stronger ties through contracts and cooperation.
Term insurance plans with return of premium (TROP) provide life coverage and a potential return on premiums, making them appealing for those prioritizing stability over market-linked returns. They have higher premiums, approximately 1.8x to 2x regular term plans, due to the addition of a maturity benefit.
India and Russia reaffirmed their cooperation in the energy sector, specifically in civil nuclear energy, critical minerals, and clean energy. They discussed the construction of small modular and floating nuclear plants and the non-energy applications of nuclear technology.
IndiGo, India's biggest airline, is in crisis due to its aggressive high-utilization model and disregard for regulations. The recent chaos of over 1,900 cancelled flights has revealed the dangers of their lean playbook.
RBI revises growth forecast to 7.3% and lowers inflation expectations to 2%. MPC cuts policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25% with a neutral stance. Economy in a "goldilocks period" of high growth and low prices, but external uncertainties pose risks. Decision welcomed by market, but economists express concerns.
SBI Research predicts 7% growth in India's GDP for Q3 and Q4 of FY2025-26, with an overall growth rate of 7.6%. The report also notes robust rural demand and recovering urban demand. RBI projects inflation for FY26 at 2%, lower than previous estimates, and GDP growth for FY27 at 7.3%. However, trade uncertainties may impact external demand. RBI cuts repo rate to 5.25% and maintains neutral stance.
Google's 'Year in Search' feature revealed the most searched movies of 2025, ranging from old classics to new releases and spanning various genres and languages. These movies, such as Saiyaara, Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1, Coolie, War 2, Sanam Teri Kasam, Marco, Housefull 5, Game Changer, Mrs, and Mahavatar Narsimha, captured the audience's imagination.
Aequs Ltd, a contract manufacturing firm specializing in consumer durable goods and aerospace parts, saw its initial public offering (IPO) receive an overwhelming response, with 101.63 times subscription on the closing day of the share sale. The IPO, which was priced at Rs 118-124 per share, garnered bids for 4,27,13,15,160 shares against 4,20,26,913 shares on offer.
PM Modi announced free 30-day e-tourist visa and Group Tourist Visa for Russian travellers, simplifying and removing cost barriers. India and Russia signed agreements to raise bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030 and increase exchanges between students, scholars, and sportspersons. This follows the inauguration of two new Indian consulates in Yekaterinburg and Kazan.
Meesho's IPO receives overwhelming response, subscribed 79.02 times on the third day of share sale. The company has received bids for 21,96,29,80,305 shares against 27,79,38,446 shares on offer. Non-institutional investors show the highest interest with 38.15 times subscription, followed by retail investors at 19.04 times and qualified institutional buyers at 120.18 times.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India marks the launch of RT India, a state-funded television network aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries and expanding their global influence. The studio will have a team of over a hundred and provide objective coverage of Russian-Indian relations.
RBI provides $16 billion liquidity support, conducts OMO and forex swaps to boost banking sector. Economists predict more liquidity infusion and better portfolio transmission. MPC unanimously cuts repo rate by 25 bps to 5.25% and maintains neutral stance. GDP forecast revised to 7.3% for FY26, inflation projection lowered to 2%. RBI allows rupee to determine its own value.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan dazzled at the opening night of the 5th annual Red Sea Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, wearing a stunning Dolce & Gabbana gown. She was seen mingling with stars from across the globe, including Dakota Johnson, who gushed about her visit to India and the Maha Kumbh.
Indian Railways has introduced various measures to enhance passenger experience, including simplifying online ticket booking and redeveloping stations. The Railway Minister also shared that special provisions have been made for senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities, such as automatic lower berth allotment and designated quotas.
The Indian government is taking steps to reduce reliance on China for speciality fertilisers by turning to alternative suppliers in Belgium, Egypt, Germany, Morocco, and the United States. Minister Anupriya Patel emphasizes the importance of self-reliance through indigenous technologies and initiatives such as Soil Test-Based Fertiliser Recommendations and Site-Specific Nut.