Shah on National Spirit

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, speaking in the Rajya Sabha on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, said the song was instrumental in igniting national consciousness during the freedom struggle. He stressed its lasting spirit, adding that neither British rule nor its followers could suppress its influence.

National Handicrafts Awards

President Droupadi Murmu conferred the National Handicrafts Awards for 2023 and 2024 in New Delhi, honoring artisans for their exceptional craftsmanship and reaffirming India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its diverse handicraft traditions.

India to Co-Host WHO Meet

India will co-host the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi from December 17–19, 2025, alongside the World Health Organization. The Summit will bring together global leaders, policymakers, researchers and experts to deliberate on innovation, evidence-based practice and future strategies in traditional medicine.

DGCA Cuts IndiGo Flights

The DGCA has directed IndiGo to cut its flight schedule by 5% across sectors, targeting high-demand routes, after widespread disruptions. IndiGo had over 15,000 weekly departures approved in the current winter schedule.

Odisha Freezes On

Odisha is set for a sustained cold wave until December 12, the IMD said on Monday. Dry weather is expected across the state, with districts such as Sundargarh, Angul, Jharsuguda, Kalahandi, Khordha, Kandhamal, Jagatsinghpur, Koraput, Subarnapur and Cuttack likely to face biting cold. Morning fog may blanket hilly districts.

Tragedy in Forests

Odisha has recorded 136 elephant deaths in the past 18 months, Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia told the Assembly. Electrocution caused 42 deaths, while 31 died of diseases and 31 from natural factors. Four cases each of poaching, retaliation and train collisions were reported, with 20 cases undetermined.

Voter List Storm

A Delhi court will examine a revision petition challenging a previous refusal to file an FIR against Sonia Gandhi over allegations that her name appeared on a 1980 electoral roll, before she became an Indian citizen. Notices were issued after claims that documents may have been forged or fabricated.

Sheikh Hasina Thanks PM Modi

Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support and lauded the enduring friendship between India and Bangladesh. She also recalled India’s role in providing her refuge during a time of danger, calling it a vital neighbour and trusted partner.

Cricket Meets Faith

Ahead of the T20I opener at Cuttack’s Barabati Stadium, Team India cricket players visited the Temple City of Puri today to offer prayers at the Sri Jagannath Temple. India and South Africa will play the opening T20 International of the series, with the match scheduled for 7 this evening.

IPL 2026 Auction

The Indian Premier League has finalized the player auction list for the 2026 season, featuring 350 players. The auction will take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16, according to the IPL release.