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The Centre has issued a draft rule to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities at railway stations and trains. The proposed rules aim to create a user-friendly environment and seek feedback from stakeholders and the public. The guidelines emphasize dedicated website features, a mobile app, and a one-click template for people with disabilities. Credible announcements & accessible entry and exit points are also proposed. The guidelines aim to enhance overall accessibility and provide a more inclusive experience.

Jammu and Kashmir witnessed an 80% decline in local terror recruitment in 2023, with foreigners taking the lead, according to DGP RR Swain. Only 22 recruitments occurred in 2023, and the J&K Police aims to curtail recruitment and violence. The collaborative efforts of the police and other security forces resulted in the neutralization of 113 terrorists, leaving 31 local operatives active. Additionally, two separatist organisations, the DFP and the Muslim League were banned under UAPA.

A powerful earthquake shook Papua, Indonesia's easternmost region, causing no serious damage. The magnitude 6.5 quake occurred in Abepura, a subdistrict in Jayapura, the capital of Papua province. It was a shallow earthquake with a depth of 10 kilometers. The region is prone to earthquakes due to its location on the "Ring of Fire". In February, another earthquake in the province resulted in the collapse of a floating restaurant, causing four deaths. Indonesia has a history of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, with past disasters claiming many lives.

Despite global headwinds, the Indian market witnessed a remarkable recovery in 2023, leading to investors' optimism. The sensex and Nifty gained 19-20% while midcap and smallcap indices surged by 46 percent and 49 percent respectively. Investor wealth reached a record high of Rs 370.6 lakh crore, reflecting the positive sentiment. The market initially faced volatility due to recession fears in the US and a struggling Chinese economy, but the revival started after a dip in March.

Indian Navy unveils new design of Admirals' Epaulettes, inspired by Rajmudra of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj & Naval Ensign. Design includes golden navy button, octagon representing eight cardinal directions, sword emphasizing Navy's Raison d'etre, & telescope symbolizing long-term vision. Navy's commitment to do away with colonial mindset reaffirmed by golden navy button. PM Modi connects Naval flag with heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, praising the nation's progress & independence. Under Shivaji, Maratha navy became powerful.

The Centre has rejected Bengal's proposed R-Day tableau highlighting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's pet project, Kanyashree, for the third time in 8 years. This rejection has caused the Trinamool Cong govt to cry foul. The defence ministry usually screens proposals for R-Day tableaux, & Bengal's proposal was allegedly rejected before state officials could make a presentation. This is the fifth time the state's proposals for Republic Day tableaux have been denied, indicating the Centre's partisanship.

Uday Kotak outlines recommendations for India's economic transformation, emphasizing the shift from savers to investors. He suggests that banks should become distributors of corporate debt and expand their reach to mid-sized corporates, MSMEs, and consumers. Kotak highlights the growing interest of Indian savers in investing, facilitated by various platforms such as mutual funds, equities, and insurance funds. He also warns of the need to protect new investors from market bubbles and advocates for tax reforms.

India's nuclear sector will power future Indian space missions through nuclear propulsion. Isro chairman S Somanath revealed plans for collaboration with the department of atomic energy. Radioisotope heating units in Chandrayaan-3's propulsion module worked flawlessly, generating enthusiasm. The Bharatiya Antariksh Station, an international platform for collaborative research, will be ready by 2028. Isro is also developing a moonbase habitat at a lower cost. Other upcoming missions include Xposat for studying Black Holes and neutron stars, Aditya-L1's mission to the Sun, a satellite for G20 countries, and plans for reusable rockets and space tourism.

The FIU under the Finance Ministry has issued show cause notices to nine offshore cryptocurrency platforms for non-compliance with anti-money laundering law. The FIU has also written to the Meity to block the URLs of these entities operating illegally. In March, the government brought virtual digital assets service providers into the ambit of the Anti Money Laundering/Counter Financing of Terrorism framework. The nine entities issued notices are Binance, Kucoin, Huobi, Kraken, Gate.io, Bittrex, Bitstamp, MEXC Global, and Bitfenex.

Ethel Nyoni from Zambia is studying Ayurveda at Jaipur’s National Institute of Ayurveda to become the first registered practitioner from her country. Many foreigners, including Dr. Avvinish Narine from Trinidad and Tobago and Dr. Fatemeh Moazzami Peiro from Iran, are pursuing Ayurveda degrees at the Jaipur Institute to become Ayurveda ambassadors in their native countries. The vice-chancellor of the institute aims to establish Ayurveda as a branch of medicine abroad. Komivi ADJA from Togo, a mathematics student, also received an AYUSH scholarship to study Ayurveda.

Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) Shah Mahmood Qureshi was re-arrested by police upon release from prison in Rawalpindi. Qureshi, former foreign minister, was granted bail in the cipher case by the Supreme Court. The Rawalpindi deputy commissioner issued a detention order under the public safety law. He was taken back into custody on suspicion of involvement in an attack on the army's general headquarters during protests against Imran's arrest in an alleged graft case. Qureshi accused the government of politically victimizing him and called it a mockery of the Supreme Court's order.

Rats can anticipate positive changes and dynamic energy in the Year of the Dragon, symbolizing growth and flexibility. Take up adventures, seek growth opportunities, and adapt with agility. This year is about intellectual growth, mastery of communication, and networking challenges in your career. Strategic communication and networking will lead to financial growth. Strengthen relationships through meaningful dialogue and establish a strong beginning in love.

Six workers, including two siblings, died while two others were critically injured after a wall in a brick kiln in Haridwar suddenly collapsed in Lahboli village. The buried bodies were taken out with the help of a JCB machine. A case has been registered against brick kiln owner Rishu Malik. The district administration has ordered a magisterial inquiry. The police complaint stated that the kiln owner and his staff were aware of the damaged condition of the wall.

India and Russia signed agreements related to the construction of future power generating units for the Kudankulam nuclear power plant in Tamil Nadu. The Kudankulam plant, built with Russian assistance, has been operating at its design capacity since 2016 and is expected to reach full capacity by 2027. The two countries also discussed collaborations in defense, nuclear power, and space, highlighting their strong partnership.

The Punjab and Haryana high court has clarified that no condition for automatic cancellation of bail can be imposed. The court ruled that the only condition that can be imposed is that the investigating agency or the complainant can move an application for cancellation of bail. The court must be satisfied that it is necessary to cancel the bail, considering various factors. This ruling came in response to a Faridabad court's order that canceled the bail granted to Rajiya in a narcotics case.

Army transfers Brigadier and officers of 13 Rashtriya Rifles following terrorist ambush in J&K's Poonch. Deaths of three men during custody sparks protests. Transfers confirmed before Army chief's visit to assess operational preparedness. Disciplinary action considered after internal investigation. FIR filed by J&K police. Compensation and jobs announced for deceased's families. Defence minister Rajnath Singh scheduled to visit Jammu for security review meeting. Change of command expected in 13 RR area. Homage paid to four slain soldiers. Search operation ongoing with mobile internet services suspended.

The past two millennia in India have witnessed seven invasions from Central Asia, believed to be influenced by climatic conditions. A recent study conducted by researchers from IIT Kharagpur, ASI, PRL, JNU, and Deccan College explored the impact of climate on these invasions. The study focused on archaeological excavations in Vadnagar, the hometown of PM Narendra Modi, where a continuous climatic record of 2,800 years was discovered. The research revealed a correlation between prosperous monsoons in India and major invasions from Central Asia, which occurred during periods of drought in the latter region.

MPPSC opens form filling link for Assistant Professor-2022 examination, providing relief to aspirants. Candidates can make corrections in forms till January 14. SET or NET examination is required for eligibility. The SET was held after a gap of four years, with 36,000 candidates applying for AP posts. Hindi, History, political science, commerce, and Sanskrit have the most applicants. Schedule and examination pattern announced for eight subjects, including Botany, Commerce, English, Hindi, History, Home Science, Mathematics, and Sanskrit.

Ineos Chief Executive Jim Ratcliffe has become a minority shareholder in Manchester United, buying a 25% stake at a price of $33 per share, the Premier League club said on Sunday. Qatar's Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al Thani was also looking to buy the club but dropped out of the bidding process, saying he would not be raising his $6 billion offer, leaving the British billionaire to strike a deal with the owners, the Glazer family

Professor Sameer Khandekar, the Dean of Students Welfare and Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department at IIT-Kanpur, passed away from cardiac arrest while delivering a speech at an alumni meet on Friday evening. Ironically, he collapsed on stage while discussing a health-related topic, with his last words reportedly urging others to take care of their health. The 53-year-old had been dealing with cardiac health issues since 2019. Despite being rushed to Laxmipat Singhania Institute of Cardiology, he was declared dead upon arrival.

Political strategist Prashant Kishor met TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu in Vijayawada on Saturday, sparking buzz that he may advise the party for the coming assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh.Kishor, who visited the former Andhra Pradesh chief minister's residence late afternoon, played down the speculation and called it a "courtesy meeting"."I met Chandrababu Naidu. This was a courtesy meeting, long overdue. Told him that I would come and meet him," said Kishor, while speaking to reporters.

The Delhi High Court has temporarily halted the execution of a trial court's order instructing the police to provide a copy of the FIR related to the Parliament breach to a suspect named Neelam. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma issued a notice to Neelam, seeking her response to the Delhi police's appeal challenging the trial court's directive. The High Court stated that the order would be stayed until the next hearing scheduled for January 4. The police argue in their appeal that, in sensitive cases, suspects should approach the police chief first, who will then form a committee to decide.

A 35-year-old man died in police custody on the outskirts of Jammu in Jourian area on Friday. Police said Sushil Kumar alias Sonu of Garhi Bishnah in Jourian died under suspicious circumstances at Jourian police post. Sushil’s body has been sent to the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Jammu, for postmortem while the matter is being investigated, police said. Meanwhile, family and relatives of the deceased staged a protest at the police station concerned, demanding an in-depth probe into the matter and punishment to the culprits.

NIA sleuths arrived in Jammu's Poonch to investigate the terrorist ambush on army vehicles that killed four soldiers. The banned People's Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), a Pakistan-backed group, claimed responsibility for the attack. The terrorists used US-made M40 rifles and took positions on hilltops. The situation in the Jammu region is a cause for concern, with a decrease in terrorist activity in the Kashmir valley and shifting of troops to the LAC with China being cited as possible reasons for the increase in attacks.

Baloch nationalists protesting against extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances in Balochistan were arrested and blocked from entering Islamabad. The police used water cannons and tear gas on the demonstrators and took women protestors to women police stations. The protesters had reached Islamabad after a long march from Turbat district. The police blamed the protesters for creating law and order problems. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan condemned the violent police crackdown and demanded the unconditional release of all detainees.

A shooting at Prague's Charles University's Faculty of Arts in Jan Palach Square has left at least 15 dead and several injured. The shooter, a student at the university, fell from the building's roof after opening fire. The area was evacuated and ambulances were deployed to attend to the injured. The incident is not linked to international terrorism. Gun crimes are rare in the Czech Republic, with notable incidents in 2019 and 2015.

Zomato denies reports of acquisition offer for Shiprocket by Bloomberg.

Pavitra Punia spoke exclusively about break-up rumours with boyfriend Eijaz Khan. She refused to divulge anything on the matter and requested privacy. Losing her father, who was her biggest support, she wants to focus on her career and family. Reacting to fan questions, she urged everyone to be calm and composed and support her and Eijaz. With multiple projects, she is excited about her career and wants fans to respect her privacy. Pavita and Eijaz met on Bigg Boss 14 and after being in a relationship for tow and a half years, the couple have apparently parted ways.

Lockdown loneliness during the pandemic has led to a surge in pet parenting in nuclear families, resulting in the rapid growth of India's pet care industry. Pet adoption has increased across metros as well as tier-2 and -3 cities, driven by factors such as rising disposable incomes, changing lifestyles, and increased knowledge of the benefits of pet ownership. Furthermore, the increasing number of Gen Z and millennial pet owners has fueled the demand for innovative and high-quality pet care solutions. This trend is expected to continue, with the pet population in India projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% between 2022 and 2027.

France submits bid to India's defence ministry for the estimated Rs 50,000 crore deal for 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets. The bid includes offer, pricing, and other details. The deals for the fighters and additional Scorpene submarines were granted preliminary approval by the Defence Acquisitions Council. The government-to-government deal will be signed after final cost negotiations and approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security. The Navy wants the deals to be finalized within this fiscal year due to a shortage of fighters for its aircraft carriers.

The Department of State has issued details of the H-1B pilot program, which will allow visa renewal domestically within the US. The program, set to launch on January 29, 2024, will initially cover 20,000 participants, half of which will be from India. The Indian diaspora hopes that the pilot program will eventually expand to include the spouse and children of H-1B visa holders. Prime minister Modi announced the initiative during his visit to the US, stating that it will shape lives, dreams, and destinies.

The JN.1 variant of Covid, causing concern in India, has mild to moderate symptoms such as fever, runny nose, sore throat, headaches, loss of appetite, and extreme fatigue. Gastrointestinal problems may also occur. The central government has issued advisories to state governments, urging adequate health arrangements. The WHO classifies JN.1 as a "variant of interest" with limited threat. Vaccinations targeting the spike protein should remain effective against JN.1. To prevent infection, experts recommend masking up in crowded areas, staying in well-ventilated spaces, and frequent handwashing.

Gauri Khan, wife of Shah Rukh Khan, has received a notice from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged embezzlement of Rs 30 crore by the real estate company, Tulsiani Group. Gauri Khan, an interior designer and brand ambassador for the company, is being investigated for her financial dealings with the firm. She has not yet responded to the notices. Gauri Khan and Shah Rukh Khan were recently seen attending their son AbRam's school function.

The new telecom bill, known as the Telecom Bill 2023, was introduced in Lok Sabha by Communications Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The bill allows the government to temporarily take control of telecom services in the interest of national security. It proposes to stop transmission and intercept messages during public emergencies or in the interest of public safety. The bill also includes provisions for the suspension or prohibition of specific telecommunication equipment and services from certain countries or individuals. Additionally, it ensures that press messages from accredited correspondents will not be intercepted or detained, unless prohibited under applicable rules.

US-based audio equipment maker Bose has acquired a minority stake in Indian wearables startup Noise as part of Noise's Series A round. Noise, which holds the second position in the overall wearables segment, aims to raise more funds. The investment figure and the quantum of stake acquired by Bose remain undisclosed. Nicholas Smith, senior vice president of strategy and business development at Bose, expressed excitement about collaborating with Noise and bringing new products to the growing market.

Chief Minister M K Stalin arrived in Delhi to discuss relief initiatives with Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the intense rainfall and heavy flooding in Tamil Nadu. The four southern districts of Chennai, Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, and Thoothukudi were overwhelmed by the unprecedented rainfall, resulting in the death of three people. Rescue efforts, including the use of boats, were ongoing in flooded areas, and food was provided to over 50,000 affected individuals.

Tanuja who is known for a number of films like Baharein Phir Bhi Ayengi', 'Jewel Thief' among others has been admitted to a hospital in Juhu due to age-related issues..

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has written to states and vice chancellors of universities, asking them to emulate Delhi University's decision to allocate two seats to orphan students in each academic program. Delhi University has committed to covering their expenses. The NCPCR chief highlighted this initiative as a template for other universities. 101 students have enrolled in DU colleges under this special category this year, across various programs. The University has about 4,000 seats under this quota.

In the legal battles over religious sites in Uttar Pradesh, three prominent cases stand out - the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid, Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi, and Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah disputes. Representing the Hindu side in these complex court cases are a father-son lawyer duo, Hari Shankar Jain and Vishnu Shankar Jain. The Jains have dedicated their expertise to over 100 cases related to Hindu religion or places of worship, all within the framework of their guiding principle: 'Hindu revolution by legal awareness.' They undertake these pro bono battles.

Netblocks reports nationwide internet disruption ahead of PTI's virtual power show on social media platforms in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. Users complain of difficulty accessing platforms and slow internet services. Former PTI leader Taimur Jhagra notes internet issues coinciding with online rally. YouTube and Ufone4G affected, millions of subscribers and businesses impacted. Pakistan ranked third in the world for internet restrictions. No statement from Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) yet.

A US warship and a Royal Navy destroyer successfully destroyed 14 suspected attack drones launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen over the Red Sea. The drones were targeting commercial ships in the busy shipping route. This comes amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict, where the rebels have also launched drones and missiles towards Israel. The engagement resulted in no damage to ships or reported injuries. The UK remains committed to protecting the free flow of global trade and repelling these attacks.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has addressed the suspension of opposition members in Lok Sabha, stating that it should not be linked to the security breach. Birla emphasized that there is no association between the two incidents and that similar security breaches in the past did not lead to disruptions. The suspension of members was done to uphold the sanctity of the House, and measures will be taken to ensure their security. Birla also mentioned the formation of high-level committees to investigate the incident and formulate action plans for enhanced security.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with beneficiaries of government schemes in states where the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra was put on hold due to assembly elections. The Yatra has transformed into a mass movement. The focus is now on urban development, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Initiatives like AMRUT Mission and Smart City Mission are upgrading basic facilities in smaller cities. The government has provided assistance during the pandemic, including free Covid vaccine, free ration, and aid to small businesses.

The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) is facing criticism from the opposition BJP for asking a question about the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), an opposition alliance formed to compete against the BJP-led NDA in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The BPSC has been conducting tests to hire quality teachers for state-run schools. The BJP alleges that the state government is using the BPSC to promote INDIA ahead of the elections. The RJD accuses the BJP of politicizing the question.

Five regional parties received Rs 1,243 crore via electoral bonds in 2022-23, a fall from the previous year. BRS individually received 3.4 times more contributions. Trinamool's total receipts were contributed 97% by electoral bonds, while DMK's were 86%, BJD's were 84%, YSR Congress's were 70%, and BRS's were 71%. AAP received Rs 36.4 crore in electoral bonds, with its total income and expenditure increasing. BRS was the top beneficiary, receiving Rs 529 crore. CPM showed a decrease in total receipts and an increase in expenditure.

Former FBI special agent, Charles McGonigal, has been sentenced to over four years in prison and fined $40,000 for providing information to a Russian oligarch in violation of US sanctions. McGonigal, who led a counterintelligence division, received a payment for laundering money from a Russian bank to his private account. The judge, Jennifer H Rearden, stated that the sentence was meant to balance McGonigal's 22 years of FBI service with the seriousness of his crimes. McGonigal also awaits another sentencing for concealing payments from a former Albanian intelligence officer.

Indian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav has credited his impressive performance in the third and final T20I against South Africa to a supportive chat with teammate Yuzvendra Chahal. In a video posted by the BCCI, Kuldeep expressed gratitude to Chahal for his friendship and support. Yadav made a stellar comeback in T20Is, delivering his best figures, taking five wickets for 17 runs in 2.5 overs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav engaged in a conversation with Kuldeep about his discussion with Chahal and its contribution to his success.

Actor Shreyas Talpade, aged 47, experienced a heart attack shortly after wrapping up a film shoot on Thursday evening. Following the incident, he was swiftly taken to an Andheri hospital, where he underwent angioplasty. The actor's family instructed the medical staff not to disclose specific details regarding his condition or the treatment administered. Talpade had been working on the film 'Welcome to the Jungle.' Throughout the day, he reportedly filmed various scenes, including minor action sequences, and was observed to be in good spirits, laughing, and joking on the set, according to unit members.

UK’s biggest intelligence agency, GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters), based in the town of Cheltenham in England has sent out its special Christmas card with tricky puzzles meant for kids. On Thursday, the organization said in a statement that this year's challenge is the “toughest” yet with kids aged 11 to 18 facing a set of seven “complex puzzles” masterminded by the agency's experts. These puzzles aim to reveal the final festive message. GCHQ director Anne Keast-Butler said, “Puzzles have been at the heart of GCHQ from the start.”