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  • Greenfield National Highway to Connect Visakhapatnam With Amaravati, Boost Regional Growth

    Greenfield National Highway to Connect Visakhapatnam With Amaravati, Boost Regional Growth

    AMARAVATI, Dec 20:
    The Andhra Pradesh government has proposed a major greenfield National Highway connecting Kharagpur–Cuttack–Visakhapatnam with Amaravati, aiming to significantly improve road connectivity across key coastal and inland regions. Officials said the proposed corridor will reduce travel time, improve passenger movement, and enhance transportation of goods between major economic centres and the state capital.

    The highway is expected to strengthen logistics infrastructure, support industrial corridors, and encourage growth in trade, tourism, and agriculture-linked sectors. Authorities added that the project will attract fresh investments, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to balanced and long-term regional development in Andhra Pradesh.

  • Eyeing Long-Term Bets? India’s Healthcare Sector Offers Four Key Themes For Next Decade

    Eyeing Long-Term Bets? India’s Healthcare Sector Offers Four Key Themes For Next Decade

    New Delhi, December 19:
    India’s healthcare sector is emerging as a strong destination for long-term investment, with analysts highlighting four key themes that could shape growth over the next decade. Experts say the sector is poised to benefit from rising demand, technological innovation, and policy support.

    The themes include expansion of primary healthcare services, growth of health insurance penetration, adoption of digital health and telemedicine, and increasing domestic pharmaceutical and medical device production. Each area presents opportunities for investors and companies to cater to evolving healthcare needs.

    Analysts emphasised that India’s demographic trends, increasing lifestyle-related diseases, and government initiatives to improve healthcare accessibility make the sector a promising long-term play. They also highlighted the potential for technological integration, particularly AI and analytics, to improve patient care and operational efficiency.

    Investors are advised to consider sector fundamentals, regulatory policies, and emerging business models while planning investments in healthcare. The growing focus on preventive care, infrastructure, and innovation is expected to drive sustainable growth in the coming decade.

  • Rapper Wiz Khalifa Sentenced To Nine Months In Romanian Prison Over Drug Possession

    Rapper Wiz Khalifa Sentenced To Nine Months In Romanian Prison Over Drug Possession

    Bucharest, December 19:
    American rapper Wiz Khalifa has been sentenced to nine months in prison by a Romanian court for possession of cannabis, the Constanța Court of Appeal ruled on Thursday. The sentence stems from an incident in July 2024 when Khalifa, whose real name is Cameron Jibril Thomaz, was stopped by police during the Beach, Please! Festival in Costinești after allegedly smoking cannabis on stage and found with more than 18 grams of the drug.

    Initially, a lower court had fined Khalifa around 3,600 lei (about $830) in April 2025 for possession of dangerous drugs, but prosecutors appealed the decision seeking a harsher penalty. The appeals court agreed and replaced the fine with a custodial sentence, stressing Romania’s strict laws against illegal drug possession even for personal use.

    Romanian drug laws criminalise cannabis possession and allow for prison sentences ranging from three months to two years or fines, making the nine‑month term legally permissible. It is currently unclear whether Romanian authorities will pursue extradition, since Khalifa is a U.S. citizen and does not reside in Romania.

  • Important To Put Pressure On Yourself: Varun Chakravarthy On Preparing For T20 World Cup

    Important To Put Pressure On Yourself: Varun Chakravarthy On Preparing For T20 World Cup

    New Delhi, December 19:
    Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy on Thursday spoke about the importance of self-motivation and maintaining focus while preparing for the upcoming T20 World Cup. He emphasised that putting pressure on oneself is crucial to perform consistently at the international level.

    Chakravarthy said that rigorous practice sessions, strategic planning, and mental conditioning help players stay ready for high-pressure situations. He added that every cricketer must challenge themselves to improve and adapt to evolving game scenarios.

    The spinner also highlighted the significance of team cohesion and learning from senior players to handle critical match moments. Chakravarthy’s remarks reflect his commitment to contributing effectively to the Indian squad’s World Cup campaign.

  • Kuldeep Yadav Receives Signed Argentina Football Jersey From Lionel Messi

    Kuldeep Yadav Receives Signed Argentina Football Jersey From Lionel Messi

    New Delhi, December 19:
    Indian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav on Thursday received a signed Argentina football jersey from football legend Lionel Messi, marking a special moment for the left-arm spinner. Yadav shared the gesture on social media, expressing his excitement and gratitude.

    The signed jersey, featuring Messi’s autograph, is seen as a token of admiration and encouragement from one of football’s greatest players. Kuldeep Yadav thanked Messi for the thoughtful gift and said it will inspire him both on and off the field.

    Fans and sports enthusiasts have lauded the interaction, highlighting the camaraderie between athletes across different sports. Yadav’s gesture of sharing the gift online has further delighted cricket and football fans alike

  • Earthquake Of Magnitude 4.1 Strikes Afghanistan

    Earthquake Of Magnitude 4.1 Strikes Afghanistan

    Kabul, December 19:
    An earthquake measuring magnitude 4.1 struck Afghanistan on Thursday, according to seismological authorities. The tremor was felt across several provinces, causing minor tremors but no immediate reports of casualties or major damage.

    Officials said the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth, which led to noticeable shaking in nearby settlements. Emergency services have been alerted to monitor the situation and provide assistance if required.

    Seismologists reminded residents in earthquake-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols. Authorities continue to assess the impact and are on standby to respond to any reports of damage or injuries.

  • Pakistani Nationals Deported, Stopped Over Suspected Illegal Travel

    Pakistani Nationals Deported, Stopped Over Suspected Illegal Travel

    New Delhi, December 19:
    Authorities on Thursday deported several Pakistani nationals after intercepting them over suspected illegal travel into India. Officials said the individuals were stopped during routine immigration checks and were found to be in violation of visa and travel regulations.

    The deported nationals were handed over to Pakistani authorities following verification of their identities and completion of due legal procedures. Officials emphasised that such actions are part of ongoing efforts to maintain border security and curb illegal migration.

    Authorities also cautioned that strict measures will continue to be enforced to prevent unlawful entry into the country. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to legal travel protocols and bilateral cooperation in managing cross-border movements.

  • 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.