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  • China’s Slowdown Deepens As Investment Falls; Retail Sales Hit Post-Pandemic Low

    China’s Slowdown Deepens As Investment Falls; Retail Sales Hit Post-Pandemic Low

    Beijing, December 19:
    China’s economic slowdown deepened in recent months as investment declined and retail sales fell to post-pandemic lows, official data revealed on Thursday. Analysts said the figures indicate continuing weakness in domestic demand and challenges for policymakers in sustaining growth.

    Fixed-asset investment growth slowed, while retail spending showed signs of subdued consumer confidence. Property sector weakness, regulatory constraints, and global economic uncertainty have compounded domestic challenges, affecting both urban and rural markets.

    Economists warned that without targeted policy support, the slowdown could weigh on global supply chains and trade flows. Officials emphasised that measures to stimulate investment, support consumption, and encourage private-sector growth will be crucial in restoring economic momentum.

  • India Seeks Netherlands’ Support As EU Free Trade Talks Enter Decisive Phase: Jaishankar

    India Seeks Netherlands’ Support As EU Free Trade Talks Enter Decisive Phase: Jaishankar

    New Delhi, December 19:
    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday said India is seeking the support of the Netherlands as free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations with the European Union enter a decisive phase. He highlighted the importance of strong bilateral and multilateral cooperation to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome.

    Jaishankar emphasised that the Netherlands, as a key EU member, can play a constructive role in facilitating discussions and bridging differences in the ongoing trade talks. He noted that India is committed to concluding a comprehensive FTA that strengthens trade, investment, and strategic partnerships with EU nations.

    Officials said India is working closely with various EU partners to resolve outstanding issues related to market access, regulatory frameworks, and sectoral agreements. The talks aim to enhance economic cooperation while ensuring fair and balanced trade practices for all parties involved.

  • 100-Year-Old Bridge Over Mississippi River To Be Demolished On Friday

    100-Year-Old Bridge Over Mississippi River To Be Demolished On Friday

    Mississippi, December 19:
    A historic 100-year-old bridge spanning the Mississippi River is set to be demolished on Friday, officials confirmed on Thursday. The demolition marks the end of the bridge’s century-long service, which has connected communities and facilitated transport across the river.

    Authorities said the controlled explosion is planned to ensure safety and minimise impact on river traffic and surrounding areas. Engineers and demolition experts have conducted thorough assessments to execute the operation with precision.

    Local officials noted that a new modern bridge has been constructed nearby to replace the century-old structure, offering enhanced capacity, safety, and accessibility. Residents and historians have expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the bridge’s historical significance while welcoming the upgraded infrastructure.

  • India’s Shipbuilding Sector Witnesses Boom With Rs 2.3 Trillion Orders, Rs 697 Billion Maritime Push

    India’s Shipbuilding Sector Witnesses Boom With Rs 2.3 Trillion Orders, Rs 697 Billion Maritime Push

    New Delhi, December 19:
    India’s shipbuilding industry is experiencing a significant boom, with orders worth Rs 2.3 trillion and government-backed investments totaling Rs 697 billion aimed at strengthening maritime infrastructure and capacity. Officials said the surge reflects growing global demand and India’s push for self-reliance in ship production.

    The government’s maritime initiative focuses on modernising shipyards, promoting domestic manufacturing, and enhancing the country’s strategic naval and commercial capabilities. Authorities highlighted that these investments will support both defence and commercial shipbuilding, including cargo vessels, tankers, and specialised maritime crafts.

    Industry experts said the boost is expected to generate employment, attract foreign collaboration, and position India as a key player in global shipbuilding. Officials also emphasised that strengthening domestic shipbuilding aligns with the nation’s broader maritime security and economic goals.

  • Sudha Murty’s Deepfake Video Used For Investment Scam, Author Reacts

    Sudha Murty’s Deepfake Video Used For Investment Scam, Author Reacts

    Bengaluru, December 19:
    Bestselling author and philanthropist Sudha Murty on Thursday reacted after a deepfake video of her was reportedly used to promote an online investment scam. In the video, Murty’s likeness was manipulated to endorse the fraudulent platform, misleading unsuspecting investors.

    Murty expressed shock and disapproval over the misuse of her image, urging the public to remain cautious of online scams and verify information before taking any financial decisions. She highlighted that such deepfake incidents not only affect individuals but also harm public trust in digital platforms.

    Authorities are reportedly investigating the matter, and financial experts have cautioned investors about rising cases of deepfake videos being used for financial fraud. Legal and technological measures are being considered to prevent such misuse in the future.

  • Flipkart Buys Majority Stake In Minivet AI To Boost GenAI Capabilities

    Flipkart Buys Majority Stake In Minivet AI To Boost GenAI Capabilities

    New Delhi, December 19:
    E-commerce major Flipkart on Friday announced that it has acquired a majority stake in Minivet AI, an India-based artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions provider, as part of its strategy to enhance core Generative AI (GenAI) capabilities. The company said the move will accelerate the adoption of AI-led innovation across its platform.

    Flipkart said the acquisition is aimed at building advanced AI tools to support visual and conversational discovery, immersive shopping experiences and rich, AI-generated content for online retail. However, the financial details of the deal, including the quantum of stake and deal size, were not disclosed.

    Minivet AI, founded in 2024, focuses on generative video and visual content solutions for e-commerce, enabling automated transformation of static product catalogs into engaging video and visual formats at scale. Flipkart said the technology will help enhance customer engagement and drive innovation in the rapidly evolving AI-driven commerce landscape.

  • Adani Group To Invest Rs 1 Lakh Crore In Airport Infrastructure Over Next Five Years

    Adani Group To Invest Rs 1 Lakh Crore In Airport Infrastructure Over Next Five Years

    New Delhi, December 19:
    The Adani Group has announced plans to invest Rs 1 lakh crore in airport infrastructure over the next five years, reinforcing its long-term commitment to India’s aviation sector. The investment will focus on expanding capacity, modernising facilities and enhancing passenger experience across airports operated by the group.

    According to officials, the proposed investment will be used for development of terminals, runways, cargo facilities and supporting infrastructure. The group aims to cater to rising air traffic demand while aligning with the government’s vision of strengthening aviation connectivity across the country.

    The Adani Group currently operates multiple airports across major cities and has been expanding its footprint in the aviation sector. Industry experts said the planned investment is expected to generate employment, boost regional connectivity and contribute significantly to economic growth.

  • U19 Asia Cup 2025: Qualification Rules In Focus If India vs Sri Lanka Semi-Final Is Washed Out

    U19 Asia Cup 2025: Qualification Rules In Focus If India vs Sri Lanka Semi-Final Is Washed Out

    Dubai, December 19:
    The Under-19 Asia Cup 2025 semi-final between India and Sri Lanka has come under focus amid weather concerns, with questions arising over which team would qualify for the final if the match is washed out without a result.

    According to tournament regulations, if the semi-final cannot be completed due to rain or adverse conditions, the team with the better performance in the group stage will advance to the final. Officials said no reserve day has been allocated for the knockout fixture, making group-stage standings crucial.

    India U19 finished higher in the group stage compared to Sri Lanka U19, which would give them the edge in case of a no-result scenario. Tournament organisers continue to monitor weather conditions closely, hoping for play to proceed in the high-stakes semi-final.

  • India U19 vs Sri Lanka U19 Asia Cup Semi-Final: Covers Come Off In Dubai, Weather Remains Major Concern

    India U19 vs Sri Lanka U19 Asia Cup Semi-Final: Covers Come Off In Dubai, Weather Remains Major Concern

    Dubai, December 19:
    The India Under-19 team’s Asia Cup semi-final clash against Sri Lanka Under-19 witnessed some positive signs as ground covers were partially removed in Dubai on Thursday, raising hopes of play. However, weather conditions continue to pose a major concern ahead of the crucial knockout encounter.

    Officials closely monitored the situation as intermittent rain and damp outfield conditions threatened to delay the start of the match. Tournament organisers said all necessary efforts were being made to prepare the ground and ensure the safety of players amid uncertain weather.

    The high-stakes semi-final holds significant importance for both teams as they vie for a spot in the Asia Cup final. Fans remain hopeful that conditions will improve to allow a full contest, with India U19 entering the match as strong contenders based on recent performances.

  • Every Mafia In The State Has Ties To The Samajwadi Party: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

    Every Mafia In The State Has Ties To The Samajwadi Party: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

    Lucknow, December 19:
    Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Samajwadi Party, alleging that every mafia operating in the state has links with the party. He said the present government has taken strict action against organised crime and criminal elements without discrimination.

    The Chief Minister stated that law and order in Uttar Pradesh has improved significantly under the BJP government, with strong measures taken to curb mafia activities. He claimed that properties of criminals have been seized and illegal networks dismantled as part of the state’s crackdown on crime.

    Yogi Adityanath further said that the government is committed to maintaining peace and security, asserting that no individual or group involved in criminal activities will be spared. His remarks come amid ongoing political exchanges between the ruling party and the opposition ahead of upcoming political events in the state.