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  • India‑Oman CEPA: How PM Modi’s Visit Will Double Bilateral Trade

    India‑Oman CEPA: How PM Modi’s Visit Will Double Bilateral Trade

    Muscat/New Delhi, Dec 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Oman, taking place on December 17–18, is centred on strengthening economic and strategic ties between India and the Sultanate, with the much‑anticipated Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) expected to be a key outcome. The two countries have maintained close commercial relations for decades, with bilateral trade exceeding USD ~10.6 billion in FY 2024‑25, up from earlier levels, driven largely by energy products and other key commodities. The CEPA, which has been under negotiation for the past two years and recently received Cabinet approval, aims to significantly reduce trade barriers such as customs duties, simplify regulatory procedures and expand market access for goods and services, creating a more favourable environment for businesses on both sides.

    Economic experts and business leaders from Oman and India say the agreement could double bilateral trade volumes within five years by removing tariffs on a broad range of products and opening up new sectors for cooperation, including technology, logistics, tourism, agriculture, green energy and services. The strategic geography of Oman — positioned near major shipping routes and serving as a gateway to the GCC, Africa and beyond — is seen as an added advantage for Indian exporters and investors looking to expand regionally. Both governments also hope that simplified trade rules, investment incentives and stronger institutional linkages will boost employment opportunities, encourage joint ventures, and elevate mutual investment flows. PM Modi’s visit is expected to provide the political momentum needed to finalise the CEPA and set in motion a faster pace of economic engagement between the two countries.

  • IPL 2026 Auction: From CSK, KKR To MI — Predicting The Best Playing XI

    IPL 2026 Auction: From CSK, KKR To MI — Predicting The Best Playing XI

    Abu Dhabi, Dec 16: The IPL 2026 player auction in Abu Dhabi has thrown up several blockbuster buys and strategic picks, reshaping the squads of all ten franchises as they prepare for the upcoming season. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made headlines by splashing a record sum on Australian all‑rounder Cameron Green, signalling their intent to rebuild a competitive core after the departure of several key players. KKR also strengthened their bowling with top buys like Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana, adding depth and balance to both batting and bowling departments. This aggressive strategy puts KKR in a strong position as they look for a consistent playing XI capable of challenging for the title.

    Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opted to invest heavily in young talent, securing a pair of promising uncapped Indians with significant bids, while also eyeing all‑rounders and finishers to bolster their squad after a disappointing previous season. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians (MI) faced constraints with a relatively small purse, focusing on targeted buys and domestic players to round out their lineup. Other franchises similarly used their auction budgets to plug gaps — acquiring finishers, spin specialists and versatile all‑rounders to build balanced XIs. With teams now crystallizing their post‑auction squads, attention turns to how these new combinations will translate on the field when the IPL 2026 season kicks off.

  • India vs South Africa: When And Where To Watch Live

    India vs South Africa: When And Where To Watch Live

    Lucknow, Dec 17: Cricket fans across India are gearing up for the 4th T20I between India and South Africa, scheduled for December 17, 2025, at Ekana Stadium, Lucknow, starting at 7:00 PM IST. This match is part of the ongoing five‑match T20I series, with India aiming to consolidate its lead against the visiting South African side. The encounter is expected to draw significant attention as both teams look to fine‑tune their line-ups ahead of major international tournaments in 2026.

    Fans can watch the match live on Star Sports Network, with regional language commentary available on Star Sports Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada channels. For viewers who prefer online streaming, the JioHotstar app and website will provide live coverage, accessible on smartphones, smart TVs, and laptops. International audiences can tune in via official broadcasters: SuperSport in South Africa, Willow TV in the USA, TNT Sports in the UK and Europe, Fox Cricket in Australia, and Sky Sports NZ in New Zealand. With live scores and ball-by-ball updates also available through cricket apps and official platforms, fans worldwide can follow the action in real time.

  • RBI Returns With Decisive Hand To Halt Rupee’s One‑Way Slide

    RBI Returns With Decisive Hand To Halt Rupee’s One‑Way Slide

    Mumbai, Dec 17: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken assertive action to stem the recent sharp depreciation of the Indian rupee, intervening heavily in currency markets to support the battered currency. After the rupee weakened persistently and breached record low levels against the US dollar over several sessions, the central bank sold US dollars in both spot and non‑deliverable forward markets, triggering a strong rebound in the rupee’s value — with the currency strengthening by the largest margin seen in about seven months. Analysts said the move underscores the RBI’s intent to counter one‑way, destabilising market trends and to reassure investors amid sustained global volatility.

    Market participants noted that the RBI’s intervention helped reverse the rupee’s earlier losses, with the currency rallying from levels near 91 to recover part of its decline, reaffirming the central bank’s role as a stabilising force in forex markets. The intervention came as foreign portfolio outflows and uncertainty linked to global trade dynamics had exerted downward pressure on the rupee, making it notably weaker than many of its Asian peers. The decisive action has been reflected not only in the currency’s gains but also in a more balanced market tone on Indian equities and bonds, although volatility remains elevated as investors continue to assess macroeconomic and external factors.

  • KN Factor — Vijay Diwas 2025 Highlights Tech‑Forward National Security

    KN Factor — Vijay Diwas 2025 Highlights Tech‑Forward National Security

    New Delhi, Dec 16: On the occasion of Vijay Diwas 2025, commemorating India’s decisive victory in the 1971 Indo‑Pakistan war, the Indian Army showcased an impressive array of indigenous defence technologies and innovation, underlining a modern, tech‑forward approach to national security. The event, attended by President Droupadi Murmu and senior military leaders, featured advanced capabilities in artificial intelligence, satellite imagery analysis, drone systems and portable communication technologies, reflecting how the armed forces are integrating cutting‑edge tools into battlefield awareness and strategic planning. These developments demonstrate the shift from conventional defence frameworks to a more networked, digital and autonomous landscape that strengthens India’s defence posture well into the future.

    The showcase also included systems capable of real‑time geospatial intelligence and autonomous analysis, rugged AI‑enabled platforms for remote operations, and indigenous drone forensics tools that enhance counter‑drone preparedness across challenging terrains. Additionally, innovations such as rapid deployable bridges, all‑terrain mobility vehicles and silent electric tactical units highlighted how modern technology is enhancing not only combat effectiveness but also support roles in disaster relief and civilian operations. The emphasis on homegrown solutions, developed through collaboration between military research units, startups and academic institutions, reinforces India’s strategic goal of self‑reliance in defence technology — a key pillar of national security in an era where warfare increasingly depends on digital superiority and technological agility.

  • Metro at 6-Minute Interval in Chennai on This Stretch — Full Details

    Metro at 6-Minute Interval in Chennai on This Stretch — Full Details

    Chennai, Dec 17: Chennai Metro Rail is gearing up to roll out a high-frequency service on a key new section of the network between Poonamallee and Porur, part of the Phase-II expansion that is nearing completion and expected to start operations from January 2026. Under the plan, metro trains will operate at an interval of every six minutes during peak hours, bringing faster and more convenient connectivity to commuters on this busy corridor.

    This enhanced frequency will be supported by 13 three-coach metro trains that are ready for service and an expanded roster of drivers and staff being inducted for the new stretch. The move to six-minute headways reflects growing demand as the city’s public transport usage increases, aiming to reduce crowding and improve commuter experience on one of Chennai’s emerging rapid transit links.

  • Apple Adds MagSafe to iPhone 17e With Magnetic Wireless Charging Support

    Apple Adds MagSafe to iPhone 17e With Magnetic Wireless Charging Support

    Cupertino, Dec 17: Apple is reportedly planning to introduce MagSafe magnetic wireless charging support on its upcoming iPhone 17e, marking a key upgrade over its predecessor, the iPhone 16e. Unlike the 16e, which offered only basic wireless charging without magnetic alignment, the 17e is expected to include a built-in magnet array that enables users to snap compatible chargers and accessories onto the back of the phone for faster, more convenient wireless charging.

    Industry reports indicate that this move will address one of the biggest limitations of Apple’s recent budget iPhone lineup and bring the 17e closer in functionality to higher-end models. With magnetic wireless charging, users should experience more reliable alignment and improved charging speeds, as well as access to the broader ecosystem of MagSafe accessories such as wallets, battery packs and mounts. The addition of this feature could make the iPhone 17e a more attractive option for buyers seeking Apple’s ecosystem at a lower price point.

  • Might Never See Him Again: Imran Khan’s Sons Allege Psychological Torture in Jail

    Might Never See Him Again: Imran Khan’s Sons Allege Psychological Torture in Jail

    Islamabad, Dec 17: Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s sons, Sulaiman and Kasim Khan, have voiced serious concerns over their father’s well-being, alleging that he is being subjected to psychological torture while lodged in jail. In an emotional public statement, they said they fear they may “never see him again,” citing prolonged isolation, limited access to family and lawyers, and deteriorating mental health conditions.

    They accused Pakistani authorities of deliberately using harsh prison conditions to break Imran Khan’s spirit, calling it a violation of basic human rights and democratic values. The sons appealed to the international community to take note of their father’s situation, stressing that the treatment meted out to him goes beyond legal punishment and amounts to mental abuse amid Pakistan’s ongoing political turmoil.

  • GRAP-IV In Action In Delhi: What Is Open And Closed

    GRAP-IV In Action In Delhi: What Is Open And Closed

    New Delhi, Dec 17: Authorities in Delhi-NCR have enforced Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) after air quality deteriorated to the ‘Severe Plus’ category. With the Air Quality Index crossing extremely hazardous levels, the highest set of restrictions has been imposed to curb pollution sources and reduce public exposure, especially among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.

    GRAP-IV is an emergency response mechanism triggered during extreme pollution episodes. The measures focus on restricting high-emission activities, regulating traffic and limiting outdoor exposure until air quality shows sustained improvement.

  • Tata Motors Gifts Tata Sierra SUVs to World Cup-Winning Indian Women’s Cricket Team

    Tata Motors Gifts Tata Sierra SUVs to World Cup-Winning Indian Women’s Cricket Team

    Mumbai, Dec 17: In a grand celebration of India’s historic triumph at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, Tata Motors has gifted brand-new Tata Sierra SUVs to every member of the victorious Indian Women’s Cricket Team. The felicitation ceremony, held at the company’s headquarters, saw senior leaders of the Tata Group honour the champions for their extraordinary performance and the pride they brought to the nation. Each player has been presented with a top-end variant of the Sierra — a model that marks the iconic SUV’s return to India’s roads.

    The gesture by Tata Motors underscores not only the team’s dedication and grit but also the broader cultural impact of their win, inspiring youth and sports enthusiasts across the country. Tata Motors executives noted that the SUVs, from the first production batch, serve as both a personal gift to the players and a symbolic tribute to their relentless journey. This recognition adds to the array of rewards and honours the team has received since clinching the World Cup title, further highlighting the importance of women’s sport in India.