LUMS is reintroducing Sanskrit studies in Pakistan through a four-credit university course taught by Dr Shahid Rasheed. The course aims to train local scholars and promote a diverse language ecosystem. LUMS Director Dr Ali Usman Qasmi hopes for an increase in students and a deeper understanding of classical traditions, emphasizing the cultural significance of Sanskrit.
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour earned her $197 million, making her a billionaire. In her documentary, she showed appreciation for her crew by giving out bonuses, leaving many emotional and grateful. She also wrote personal letters and gave gifts on bonus day, showing the importance of her team during the tour.
Celebrated author Ruskin Bond, aged 91, has been hospitalized in Dehradun after experiencing discomfort in his leg. He is expected to be discharged in a few days and has been honored with prestigious awards such as the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. Despite facing difficulties in walking, Bond continues to write and find inspiration in nature.
Jefferies rates Bharat Petroleum as a 'Buy' with a target price of Rs 435, predicting a 22% potential upside. The company is expected to benefit from stable crude oil prices, strong refining and marketing margins, and improved earnings visibility. The government's decision to compensate for past LPG losses will also boost the company's earnings.
December will see a busy primary market, with one mainboard IPO and three SME issues opening for subscription. ICICI Prudential AMC will also list on stock exchanges. KSH International's IPO will open on December 16 with a price band of Rs 365-384, while three SME IPOs, including Neptune Logitek and Global Ocean Logistics, will also launch this month.
Three US politicians, including an Indian-American, introduced a resolution to challenge President Trump's 25% tariffs on India. They argue that these tariffs are counterproductive and illegal, and their removal will improve US-India relations and benefit American workers and consumers. This is part of the Democrats' efforts to reclaim Congress' trade authority and stop Trump's misguided policies.
A coalition of 20 states, led by California, is suing the Trump administration over the $100,000 fee imposed on new H-1B visa petitions. The fee is deemed unlawful and a violation of Congress's intent, with the California Attorney General calling it a "crass insult" to the nation's immigrant roots and a setback for employers who depend on skilled H-1B workers.
An Indian illegal immigrant, Kamalpreet Singh, was arrested by Washington State Patrol for causing a fatal crash involving three vehicles near the SR-18 interchange in Auburn. The accused truck driver had been previously arrested by US Border Patrol but was released by the Biden administration. The White House has declared that illegal alien drivers are a public safety threat.
Bharat Ki Soch, a new think tank, aims to use ancient Indian wisdom to enrich India's growth narrative and offer fresh perspectives for nation-building. The inaugural conference, Navigating Growth and Development in Global Uncertain Times, brought together thought leaders and featured eminent speakers, including former Union Ministers.
Lava's Agni 4 offers a reliable choice for budget-conscious users prioritising battery, value, and a simple Android interface. The phone features a bright 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate, IP64 rating, and Gorilla Glass 5. It runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 8350 processor with Android 15, promising long-term updates. The 5000mAh battery charges quickly with the 66W Super
Dashcams like the Pioneer VREC-H520DC and TWM Dash Cam are crucial for drivers as they offer objective video evidence for accident claims, prevent fraud, and expedite insurance processes. These durable and feature-rich devices have 360-degree rotation, GPS, G-sensor protection, and ample storage, providing comprehensive driving safety and evidence recording solutions.
The future of technology lies in nanoelectronics, with the global market expected to reach $1 trillion by 2030. India, currently a major importer of chips and sensors, has the potential to become a leader in this field by investing in R&D and training. With a focus on materials science, device physics, and data systems, India can create high-value exports and secure its place in the global market.
India is a top destination for global tech giants, with Microsoft and Amazon announcing a combined investment of over $52 billion this week. Amazon plans to invest $35 billion by 2030, focusing on AI and job creation, while Microsoft will invest $17.5 billion between 2026 and 2029 for cloud and AI infrastructure. Google and Meta also have investment plans in India's booming AI sector.
Novo Nordisk's Ozempic, a weight-loss injection, has been launched in India at a price of Rs 8,800 for a four-week course, making it a serious competitor to Eli Lilly's Mounjaro, which is priced at Rs 14,000 a month. This launch comes after the recent rollout of Wegovy, another weight-loss injection by Novo Nordisk, at a lower price.
TVS Ronin Agonda Edition is a unique, beach-inspired, custom-culture variant of the Ronin. It has a glossy white base with retro-style blue and red graphics, a digital speedometer, and Bluetooth connectivity. The bike has a 225.9-cc engine, 5-speed gearbox, and weighs just 160 kg. It's good for city traffic but lacks a sixth gear for highway rides.
Mexico's decision to raise tariffs on imports from India by 50% starting January 1, 2026 will greatly affect the automobile, auto component, tech, metals, garments, textiles, and pharmaceutical sectors. This move is seen as a strategic move by Mexico to gain leverage in negotiations with the US and protect its domestic industries. India is unlikely to retaliate.
The new Tata Sierra appeals to both nostalgia and modern technology, competing with top-end SUVs and offering four advanced variants. Its design pays homage to the original Sierra, while its spacious cabin and powerful engines make it ideal for families. However, those seeking a superior driving experience may find better options elsewhere.
A home loan overdraft facility can save on interest payments for those with extra funds, but may harm those with tight cash flow. Loans against securities can be paid off without penalty after a year, but terms should be checked. Education loans in Singapore have lower interest rates, but need a local co-applicant or guarantor. NOC from the bank is needed to sell a property.
Taxpayers have until December 15 to pay their third instalment of advance tax and must review their liability beforehand. Those with deferred payments should monitor their income timing to stay compliant and pay by the deadline to avoid interest charges. Certain professions have the option of presumptive taxation for easier compliance.
The Union Cabinet has approved renaming MGNREGA to Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Guarantee Yojana and increasing guaranteed employment days to 125/year with a minimum wage of Rs 240/day. A Bill will be introduced in Parliament for these changes, as recommended by a Parliamentary Standing Committee.
IndiGo has approached the Delhi High Court to reclaim ₹900 crore from the Customs department for IGST and cess paid on aircraft parts re-imported into India. The airline argues that these taxes were declared unconstitutional in March and it had filed refund claims, which were rejected by Customs. The case will now be heard by a different bench after one judge recused herself.
In November, CPI inflation increased to 0.71%, mainly due to a decrease in food prices. Core inflation remained stable at 2.4%, suggesting no major price changes for common goods. The RBI's prediction of 0.6% inflation for the October-December period seems correct, as inflation has been below their acceptable range.
Retail food inflation in India has been negative for six months due to low prices of vegetables, cereals, pulses, meat, eggs, and spices. However, it increased slightly in November due to a rise in prices of some food items. The consumer food price index also rose, but was still lower than last year. Vegetable prices saw the highest deflation, while edible oil and fruit prices remained high.
IndiGo has hired Chief Aviation Advisors LLC, led by experienced Captain John Illson, to review recent operational disruptions. The goal is to identify issues and improve performance. This decision was recommended by IndiGo's crisis management team and the government is also investigating. Operations are stabilising with over.
Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury believes that Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi should not be compared as they have different styles of addressing issues. Priyanka's recent speech in parliament received praise for her composed approach, while her brother's direct and argumentative style was criticized.
A 1977 Star Wars poster by Tom Jung, commissioned by 20th Century Fox, sold for a record-breaking $3.875 million at auction. The hand-painted work captured the film's essence and defined its identity before release. This sale highlights the growing value of movie memorabilia as a serious investment, with the poster holding sentimental and monetary worth for fans.
The DSP Netra report predicts that the top 10 companies with the largest market capitalization will continue to outperform due to their undervaluation and low share in the total market capitalization. These largecap stocks are seen as a safe investment amidst market volatility, but the report also cautions against potential risks in the market cycle.
The Union Cabinet has approved the India-Oman free trade agreement, to be signed during PM Modi's visit. The draft of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement was also approved by Oman's Parliament. The agreement will give India access to 98% of its products in Oman, and is expected to increase trade and investment between the two countries, currently at $10.6 billion.
In a year defined by uncertainty, upheaval, and widening gender divides, three Indian women have quietly rewritten the rules of power. Their names now sit on Forbes’ 2025 list of the world’s most influential women - but the real story lies in how they got there.
BMW launched the MINI Convertible, India's most affordable convertible car, for Rs 58.5 lakh at the Bharat Mobility Show in January 2025. It has a 2.0-litre petrol engine, electrically-folding soft top, and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. BMW Group India is set to break their sales record in 2025 due to the overall economic growth and high spending power of India's rich.
Families of the 241 victims of the Air India Flight 171 crash are still seeking answers and compensation six months later. The investigation is ongoing, with a preliminary report revealing that fuel supply switches were turned off. However, the cause is still unknown and families are demanding transparency and accountability.
The DGCA has removed four FOIs from IndiGo for failing to report operational issues, as they were on the airline's payroll while working for the regulator. This is part of a larger crackdown on IndiGo, which has cancelled over 5,000 flights in the past 10 days. The DGCA is closely monitoring the airline's operations.
India and France have revised their tax treaty to reduce taxes on dividends for Indian units with French parents. This will benefit companies with major operations in India. In return, India will have more power to tax share sales by French investors and will revoke France's "most favoured nation" status.
A WHO expert group has confirmed that there is no link between vaccines and autism, contradicting recent CDC guidance. The analysis, conducted by the Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety, reviewed 31 studies from multiple countries. WHO emphasizes the importance of childhood vaccines and urges governments to base their policies on evidence.
India's imports of Russian crude oil reached a five-month high in November at Euro 2.6 billion, making it the second-largest buyer. However, US sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil have led to some Indian companies halting imports. Despite this, India's refined fuels are being exported to Australia. December may see an increase in purchases due to previously loaded cargoes being delivered.
The highly anticipated film, The Devil, starring Darshan, exceeded expectations by earning Rs 10 crores on its opening day despite the lead actor's arrest and bail cancellation. The film, which showcases Darshan in a dual role, drew record crowds in theatres across Karnataka, especially in Bengaluru where it had the most shows and highest occupancy.
Tom Cruise reportedly denied an interaction with President Trump and refused to seek permission to shoot a film in outer space with NASA. Netizens hailed his decision, but were disappointed by the film's recall. This comes after Cruise declined an award from Trump and a NASA official expressed support for the actor.
Jefferies has lowered the target price and earnings estimates for IndiGo due to operational disruptions caused by FDTL guidelines. However, it maintains a 'Buy' rating with a target price of Rs 6,035, a potential upside of 26%. The company's recent guidance cut and lower unit revenue growth for Q3 FY26 reflect the disruptions, but Jefferies remains optimistic about IndiGo's long-term potential.
Time Magazine has named the architects of artificial intelligence as its 'Person of the Year'. The cover features big names like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, but also highlights Indian-origin tech moguls Karandeep Anand and Sriram Krishnan. Anand, CEO of chatbot service Character.AI. Krishnan, a White House AI advisor, has been pushing for American dominance in the field.
Mexico has raised import duties on Indian exports, mainly in the auto industry. This will impact major automakers like Volkswagen, Hyundai, Nissan, and Maruti Suzuki, as Mexico is India's third-largest car export market, with an annual shipment of $1.87 billion. The new tariffs could harm India's manufacturing goals and lead companies to rethink their plans. Automakers have voiced their concerns.
HDFC Bank is predicted to experience a rise in credit growth and a decrease in operating costs, resulting in a potential 23.7% rise in stock price. This forecast is based on a positive review from Emkay, who met with the bank's management to discuss growth plans, margins, and competitive position. The bank anticipates a boost in credit growth, especially in retail, MSME, and corporate lending.
Rajnikanth, the South Indian superstar, turns 75 today. From a bus conductor to a revered actor, his journey to stardom is nothing short of a movie. His luxurious home in Chennai's Poes Garden worth crores reflects his successful career spanning five decades.
India is speeding up business visas for Chinese professionals. According to Reuters, citing an official, approvals now take less than a month. This move comes after years of delays caused by the multi-layered scrutiny introduced following tensions with China in 2020.
Novo Nordisk has launched its weight loss drug Ozempic in India, with prices ranging from Rs 8,800 to Rs 11,175 per month. Originally approved for managing type 2 diabetes, the once-weekly injectable has gained popularity for its weight loss benefits. It was approved by the CDSCO on September 26, 2020, for use in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Indian-origin millionaire Beri Vikram was arrested for trying to set fire to a winery in California. He fled the scene in a Tesla and crashed into two cars. When confronted by winery staff, he threw a wine bottle and intentionally crashed into two parked cars. He will be charged with assault and resisting arrest.
Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde plans to create a new regulatory framework to abolish the 'pagdi' system in Mumbai, protecting the rights of landlords and tenants. This will aid in fair redevelopment of 'pagdi' buildings, which have been a challenge for migrants. The framework includes granting FSI to landlords and incentive FSI for reconstruction of homes.
Orkla India, owner of MTR and Eastern spice brands, aims to expand its portfolio and cater to the growing demand for ready-to-eat meals by acquiring companies that align with local culture and offer convenience foods. The company is also experiencing success in online sales and fast delivery apps, driven by the rise of e-commerce and the need for convenience among young adults
The ED conducted raids at 25 premises in Lucknow, Varanasi, Jaunpur, Saharanpur, Ranchi, and Ahmedabad in connection with a money laundering investigation against an illegal cough syrup trade racket in Uttar Pradesh. The main accused, Shubham Jaiswal, is believed to have fled to Dubai. The ED has booked a case under PMLA and a total of 30 FIRs have been registered.
OpenAI and its major investor, Microsoft, are facing a new lawsuit after a tragic murder-suicide case in Connecticut was linked to ChatGPT, Bloomberg reported. According to the lawsuit, the mother was killed by her son, who had been spending months in long, delusion-filled conversations with ChatGPT.
The 2025 Game Awards, hosted by Geoff Keighley in Los Angeles, celebrated the top video games of the year. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 received 13 nominations and won Best Independent Game and Best Debut Indie Game. It is a strong contender for Game of the Year, but faces stiff competition from titles like 'Death Stranding 2: On The Beach', 'Donkey Kong Bananza', and 'Hades II'.