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  • Military Actions To Continue, Says Thai PM As Trump’s Ceasefire Efforts Fail

    Military Actions To Continue, Says Thai PM As Trump’s Ceasefire Efforts Fail

    Bangkok, December 13: Thailand’s Prime Minister on Friday said that military operations will continue despite former US President Donald Trump’s reported ceasefire efforts failing to bring a halt to the ongoing conflict. The statement comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with both sides maintaining a firm stance on security and territorial concerns.

    The Thai Prime Minister said that while Thailand remains open to diplomatic solutions, national security interests will be prioritised. Officials indicated that defence forces have been instructed to remain on high alert, as regional instability continues to pose challenges to peace efforts initiated by international stakeholders.

  • Legal Hurdles Mount Ahead Of Trump Administration’s Proposed $100,000 Fee On H-1B Visas

    Legal Hurdles Mount Ahead Of Trump Administration’s Proposed $100,000 Fee On H-1B Visas

    Washington DC, December 13: Legal challenges are mounting against the Trump administration’s proposal to impose a steep $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, with several US-based technology companies and immigrant rights groups raising strong objections. Critics argue that the proposed fee could severely impact skilled foreign workers and American companies that rely on specialised talent, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors.

    Legal experts said the move may face constitutional and administrative scrutiny, as opponents question the authority of the executive branch to introduce such a high fee without congressional approval. Indian professionals, who form a significant portion of H-1B visa holders, are closely monitoring the developments, amid concerns that the proposal could disrupt employment opportunities and bilateral talent mobility.

  • From Kantara: Chapter 1 To They Call Him OG, South Indian Films Dominate Box Office In 2025

    From Kantara: Chapter 1 To They Call Him OG, South Indian Films Dominate Box Office In 2025

    Chennai (Tamil Nadu), December 13: South Indian cinema continued its strong run in 2025, with films such as Kantara: Chapter 1 and They Call Him OG emerging as major box office successes across the country. Backed by powerful storytelling, rooted narratives, and strong performances, these films attracted audiences beyond regional boundaries, reinforcing the growing pan-India appeal of South Indian cinema.

    Trade analysts said the success of these films highlights the industry’s shift towards content-driven cinema combined with high production values. The growing acceptance of dubbed versions and nationwide releases has further expanded the reach of South Indian films, making them a dominant force in India’s entertainment landscape in 2025.

  • CA Foundation, Intermediate And Final Examination Schedule Released For May 2026

    CA Foundation, Intermediate And Final Examination Schedule Released For May 2026

    New Delhi, December 13: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has released the examination schedule for CA Foundation, Intermediate, and Final courses for the May 2026 session. Candidates appearing for the upcoming examinations can check the detailed timetable on the official ICAI website. The announcement brings clarity to lakhs of students preparing for one of the country’s most competitive professional courses.

    According to ICAI, the examinations will be conducted as per the prescribed syllabus and examination pattern, with adequate gaps provided between papers. The institute has advised candidates to regularly visit the official website for updates related to admit cards, examination centres, and guidelines, and to plan their preparation accordingly.

  • Mamata Banerjee’s Constituency Recorded Four Times More Voter Deletions Than Suvendu Adhikari’s Nandigram

    Mamata Banerjee’s Constituency Recorded Four Times More Voter Deletions Than Suvendu Adhikari’s Nandigram

    Kolkata (West Bengal), December 13: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s assembly constituency recorded nearly four times more voter deletions compared to Suvendu Adhikari’s Nandigram seat, according to official electoral data. The figures have triggered a political row in the state, with opposition parties raising concerns over the deletion process ahead of upcoming elections.

    The Trinamool Congress alleged that the large-scale deletions were politically motivated and demanded transparency from the Election Commission. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party rejected the allegations, stating that voter list revisions were carried out as per established rules and procedures. The Election Commission has said the process followed due norms and appeals can be filed by affected voters.

  • Lionel Messi India Tour 2025: Football Legend Virtually Inaugurates Statue In Kolkata

    Lionel Messi India Tour 2025: Football Legend Virtually Inaugurates Statue In Kolkata

    Kolkata (West Bengal), December 13: Argentine football legend Lionel Messi virtually inaugurated his statue in Kolkata on Friday as part of the Lionel Messi India Tour 2025. The statue, installed at a prominent location in the city, was unveiled during a special event attended by football fans, sports officials, and dignitaries, celebrating Messi’s global impact and deep connection with Indian football enthusiasts.

    Speaking during the virtual inauguration, Messi expressed his gratitude to fans in India for their continued love and support. Organisers said the event reflects Kolkata’s rich football culture and admiration for the World Cup-winning star, adding that the installation aims to inspire young footballers across the country.

  • Union Cabinet Approves Bill To Raise Foreign Direct Investment In Insurance Sector To 100%

    Union Cabinet Approves Bill To Raise Foreign Direct Investment In Insurance Sector To 100%

    New Delhi, December 13: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a Bill to increase Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the insurance sector from the existing 74 per cent to 100 per cent. The decision is aimed at attracting greater foreign investment, strengthening the insurance ecosystem, and enhancing penetration of insurance services across the country.

    Officials said the move will help bring in additional capital, advanced technology, and global best practices into the Indian insurance market. The proposed amendment is also expected to improve competition, create employment opportunities, and support long-term growth of the sector, while safeguarding policyholders’ interests through regulatory oversight.

  • PM Modi Says CoalSETU Initiative Will Boost Energy Security And Improve Coal Logistics

    PM Modi Says CoalSETU Initiative Will Boost Energy Security And Improve Coal Logistics

    New Delhi, December 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday described the Cabinet-approved CoalSETU window as a significant step towards strengthening India’s energy security. The initiative aims to streamline coal transportation, improve coordination between ministries, and ensure timely fuel supply to thermal power plants across the country.

    The Prime Minister said the move would help address logistical challenges, reduce transportation delays, and support India’s growing power requirements. Officials added that CoalSETU is expected to enhance efficiency in the coal supply chain, ensuring uninterrupted power generation and supporting industrial growth.

  • Union Cabinet Clears ₹11,718 Crore Budget For Census 2027 Under PM Modi’s Chairmanship

    Union Cabinet Clears ₹11,718 Crore Budget For Census 2027 Under PM Modi’s Chairmanship

    New Delhi, December 13: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a budgetary allocation of ₹11,718 crore for conducting Census 2027, a major national exercise aimed at collecting crucial demographic and socio-economic data. The census will be carried out in two phases beginning in 2026 and will play a key role in policy formulation, governance planning, and welfare programme implementation across the country.

    Officials said the upcoming census will provide updated data to help the government design targeted schemes for various sections of society. The Cabinet decision reflects the Centre’s emphasis on evidence-based governance and long-term development planning, ensuring that public resources are effectively utilised to meet the needs of the population.

  • PM Modi Holds Phone Conversation With US President Donald Trump, Reviews Bilateral Ties

    PM Modi Holds Phone Conversation With US President Donald Trump, Reviews Bilateral Ties

    New Delhi, December 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with United States President Donald Trump, during which the two leaders reviewed the progress of India-US bilateral relations. This was the third interaction between the two leaders in recent weeks amid ongoing discussions on trade and economic cooperation.

    During the call, Prime Minister Modi emphasised India’s commitment to strengthening strategic, defence, and economic ties with the United States. Both leaders agreed to continue dialogue on global issues of mutual interest, including regional security and economic stability.