The second season of the Women’s Hockey India League is all set to push the standards of women’s hockey even higher when it gets underway in Ranchi from December 28 to January 10. Building on the success of the inaugural edition, which saw packed stands and high-quality contests, the upcoming season will once again bring together India’s top talent and leading international stars in a compact, high-intensity window, according to a release.

The women’s league will be staged exclusively at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, with four franchises — Ranchi Royals, SG Pipers, JSW Soorma Hockey Club and Shrachi Bengal Tigers — contesting the title. The tournament will follow a double round-robin format, with each team facing the others twice in the league phase, before the top two sides qualify for the Grand Final on January 10, 2026.

Last season, Odisha Warriors clinched the inaugural Women’s Hero Hockey India League title, with JSW Soorma Hockey Club finishing runners-up after a closely fought contest. The new season promises another intense battle, with JSW Soorma Hockey Club in particular vowing to go one step further after topping the league stage and narrowly missing out in the Final. Fans can also look forward to seeing Indian internationals and global stars from hockey powerhouses such as the Netherlands, Argentina, Belgium, Australia, Spain and Great Britain in action.

Meanwhile, Ranchi Royals will aim to bank on home support and go all the way, while Shrachi Bengal Tigers and SG Pipers will also be vying to get their hand on the coveted title after finishing third and fourth, respectively, last season.

The opening match will see hosts Ranchi Royals take on SG Pipers under lights on December 28, setting the tone for 13 days of top-flight women’s hockey in front of passionate Jharkhand crowds. Across 13 matches, the league is expected to deliver fast-paced, attacking hockey and a valuable platform for young Indian players to test themselves against some of the world’s best.

The second season of the Women’s Hockey India League is positioned to further enhance India’s reputation as a global hub for world-class hockey and to inspire the next generation of girls to take up the sport.

Speaking ahead of the competition, Ranchi Royals Captain Nikki Pradhan said, “We are proud to begin the new season on home turf in Ranchi, where the passion for hockey is unmatched. Our group is excited to set the tone for the league with fearless, attacking hockey from the very first whistle. As captain, my focus is on creating a tight, trusting unit where every player feels empowered to express herself. If we stick to our structure and enjoy the big moments, the results will take care of themselves,” as quoted from a release.

SG Pipers Captain Navneet Kaur also shared her thoughts and stated, “There is a bounce-back mindset within the SG Pipers group this season, and that intent has been visible from the start. The squad is balanced with a blend of international experience and Indian players, which provides depth across positions. Training under Sofie Gierts is structured and demanding. The sessions are clear in purpose, focusing on discipline, defensive organisation, and collective responsibility. This has created an environment where players are competitive and aligned with the direction the team is taking.”

Meanwhile, JSW Soorma Hockey Club Captain Savita said, “Coming so close to the title last season has only sharpened our resolve. JSW Soorma Hockey Club has unfinished business in this league, and we are determined to turn last year’s pain into this year’s motivation. We want to inspire fans with our style of hockey and show that Soorma can finish the job this time.”

The team’s Co-Captain Salima Tete added, “For us, it’s about playing with intent every minute. We have the quality across the squad, and if we stay disciplined, control the midfield and back ourselves in key moments, we believe we can go all the way this season.”

Also, Shrachi Bengal Tigers Captain Vandana Katariya said, “This is a special group with a strong Bengal identity and a real hunger to prove ourselves against the best. The Tigers will bring speed, flair and a lot of heart to every contest. We respect every opponent, but we fear none. If we stay brave on the ball, defend as a unit and keep our composure in crunch moments, Shrachi Bengal Tigers can be a serious contender for the title.”

Resident doctors across Himachal Pradesh began an indefinite strike on Saturday, demanding the revocation of the termination of a senior resident doctor whose alleged assault on a patient was captured in a viral video.

The strike comes a day after resident doctors went on mass leave on Friday. Despite discussions with the Chief Minister and assurances of an inquiry, the Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) decided to escalate the protest after the termination order was not withdrawn.

According to doctors’ bodies, resident doctors and medical associations from almost all government hospitals in the state have joined the strike. Outpatient department (OPD) services remained shut at most hospitals, while facilities that remained open were operating with a severely limited number of doctors.

The protest centres on the termination of Dr Raghav Narula, a senior resident doctor, following the circulation of a video allegedly showing him assaulting a patient in Shimla. The state government acted swiftly after the video went viral, first suspending and later terminating the doctor.

In the state capital, resident doctors from IGMC Shimla were joined by RDA representatives from other districts, staging a joint protest.

‘Termination must be revoked’: RDA

Speaking to the media, Sohil Sharma, president of the Resident Doctors’ Association at IGMC Shimla, said revoking the termination order was the association’s sole demand.

“All the resident doctors’ associations and today even the doctors from our dental college are standing in support of us. Our only request to the government is that the termination of Dr Raghav Nirula should be revoked. The Chief Minister has told us that there will be an inquiry into the entire matter,” said Dr Sharma.

However, he added that the manner in which the action was taken had created deep resentment within the medical community.

“The message sent to resident doctors and the entire medical community is alarming. The resentment and harassment are so high that everyone feels that if, within six hours, you are suspended, and within 48 hours you are terminated, a 10-year-long career comes to an abrupt end,” he said.

He argued that every incident has two sides and questioned the speed of the disciplinary process.

“From day one, I have been saying that there are always two sides to an incident. Why was there provocation? Why were such circumstances created? After all, doctors are human. Even assuming misconduct, we observed that the government suspended the doctor within six hours, which we accepted. But within 48 hours, through a disciplinary committee, the doctor was terminated,” Dr Sharma said.

‘Atmosphere of fear among doctors’

Referring to the personal impact on the terminated doctor, Sharma said Dr Narula was under severe mental distress. “He feels his entire career has ended, and his dignity is at stake,” he said.

Sharma warned that the incident had created a wider climate of fear in hospitals. “A negative narrative has been created against doctors. Today, whether in wards, OPDs or emergency services, doctors are working under fear. If a patient threatens a doctor, saying, ‘See me first or I will get you terminated,’ it creates an atmosphere of fear. In such an environment, doctors are asking how they can continue to work,” he said.

The Resident Doctors’ Association said the strike would continue until the government agrees to revoke the termination order.

England finally registered a Boxing Day Test victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday, ending an 18-match winless streak against Australia at the iconic venue. The four-wicket win on Australian soil not only helped England restore pride in the Ashes but also triggered significant movement in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 standings.

While Australia continues to hold a 3-1 lead in the five-match series, England’s victory ensured they avoided a complete whitewash. More importantly, Ben Stokes’ side handed Australia their first defeat of the ongoing WTC cycle, ending the hosts’ unbeaten run and opening the door for rival teams to close the gap at the top of the table.

Before the loss, Australia was leading the WTC standings with a perfect 100% points percentage (PCT). The defeat has now reduced their PCT to 85.71, though Pat Cummins’ side still retains the top spot.

The result has benefited New Zealand and South Africa, who have narrowed the gap behind Australia. New Zealand currently sits second with a PCT of 77.78, followed closely by South Africa in third with 75.00.

India, meanwhile, are placed sixth on the table with a PCT of 48.41 and will need strong performances in their upcoming fixtures to push for a top-two finish and qualification for the WTC final.

England earned 12 crucial WTC points from the Melbourne Test, but they still face an uphill task. They remain seventh in the standings with a PCT of 35.18, well adrift of the top five teams. However, the Boxing Day victory could provide momentum as they look to improve their position over the remainder of the WTC cycle.

The Ashes series now moves to the Sydney Cricket Ground for the fifth and final Test starting January 4. Australia will aim to reassert control of both the series and their WTC campaign, while England will look to build on their Melbourne momentum and climb the World Test Championship standings.

England finally ended their 18-match winless streak in Boxing Day Tests, stretching back to December 2013, with a four-wicket victory over Australia on Day 2 of the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday. The win was also Ben Stokes’ first as captain in 13 Tests and ended England’s nearly 15-year wait for a Boxing Day Test victory on Australian soil.

England sealed the contest in just 32.2 overs on the second day, making it the shortest-ever Boxing Day Test in history in terms of days played.

Despite the defeat, Australia continue to lead the five-match Ashes series 3-1 and have already retained the urn, but England have managed to avoid a 5-0 whitewash heading into the final Test.

England won the toss and elected to bowl first on a lively, grass-covered surface that heavily favoured fast bowlers. Notably, no spin was bowled across the entire match, underlining the extreme pace-friendly conditions.

Josh Tongue spearheaded England’s attack with a five-wicket haul, as Australia were bundled out for 152 in their first innings. However, England struggled in reply and were dismissed for 110 in just 29.5 overs, conceding a 42-run lead, with Michael Neser claiming four wickets and Scott Boland three.

Australia began the second day with all ten wickets intact but were rocked early when the dismissal of Travis Head (46) triggered a dramatic collapse. England tore through the batting lineup to bowl Australia out for 132, with stand-in skipper Steve Smith left unbeaten on 24.

Chasing a target of 175, England approached the run chase with a limited-overs mindset. Opener Ben Duckett reached the landmark of 3,000 Test runs and crossed the 30-run mark for the first time in the series, scoring a brisk 34 off 26 balls, including four fours and a six, before being undone by a pinpoint yorker from Mitchell Starc. Zak Crawley chipped in with 37.

Australia briefly tried to make a comeback by removing Joe Root and Ben Stokes in quick succession, but Jacob Bethell’s composed 40, well supported by Harry Brook’s unbeaten 18, guided England home with ease.

The series now moves to Sydney for the fifth and final Test starting January 4, with England restoring some pride after a bruising Ashes campaign that saw them lose the opening three Tests in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide.

Brief Scores:
Australia 152 & 132 (Travis Head 46, Steve Smith 24*; Brydon Carse 4/34, Ben Stokes 3/24)
England 110 & 178/6 (Jacob Bethell 40, Zak Crawley 37; Scott Boland 2/29, Jhye Richardson 2/22)

The Bombay High Court today directed social media platforms to remove AI-generated and morphed images of actress Shilpa Shetty, terming them “extremely disturbing and shocking”.

The court noted that these images, which were created without Shetty’s consent, violate her fundamental right to privacy and could severely tarnish her reputation.

The direction.was given in response to a petition moved by Shetty seeking protection of her personality rights, alleging that AI tools were used to clone her voice and mannerisms to create morphed images, videos, and merchandise.

The court has ordered the immediate removal of the offending URLs and will examine broader issues related to personality and publicity rights later.

The Congress will launch a nationwide mass movement from January 5 to defend the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), party president Mallikarjun Kharge said on Saturday after a meeting of the Congress Working Committee.

Addressing reporters after the meeting, Kharge said the party had taken a collective pledge to make MGNREGA the central focus of a sustained national campaign. “We decided to launch a massive movement across the country. The Indian National Congress will take a leading role and start the MGNREGA Save Campaign from January 5,” he said.

Calling the scheme a constitutional guarantee, Kharge said MGNREGA was “not just a welfare programme but a right to work granted by the Constitution of India”. He added that the party would “democratically oppose every conspiracy to remove Mahatma Gandhi’s name from MGNREGA”.

Kharge accuses Modi government of weakening MGNREGA

Earlier, while delivering his opening remarks at the CWC meeting, Kharge accused the Narendra Modi government of weakening and effectively dismantling MGNREGA, describing it as a “deliberate and cruel assault” on the poor.

He alleged that the government had scrapped the law without consultation or evaluation, leaving crores of vulnerable people without employment support. Kharge said the move amounted to an attack on the constitutional right to work under Article 41 of the Directive Principles of State Policy and an insult to Mahatma Gandhi.

He also drew parallels with the now-repealed farm laws, claiming the government followed a similar approach of imposing legislation without dialogue.

Congress recalls UPA-era welfare laws, cites global praise for scheme

Kharge said landmark welfare legislations, including the Right to Work, Right to Food and Right to Education, were introduced during the UPA years, and expressed regret that one of the world’s largest rural employment programmes was being undermined.

He noted that MGNREGA, launched in 2006 by Sonia Gandhi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, had helped curb migration and empowered Dalits, Adivasis, women and landless labourers. The scheme, he said, had been widely praised at international forums as a transformative policy for rural livelihoods.

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Kharge argued that privilege and monopoly could never serve the masses, alleging that the present government prioritised the interests of a few large corporates over the welfare of the poor.

Nationwide protest strategy and organisational push

Kharge said the Congress would draw up a concrete action plan to lead a sustained, organised movement across states, asserting that vulnerable sections of society were looking towards the party for leadership.

He also referred to Rahul Gandhi’s view that the government would ultimately be forced to restore MGNREGA, adding that India’s democratic history showed that “no dictator could permanently snatch away people’s rights”.

On organisational matters, Kharge said the party’s ‘Sangathan Srijan Abhiyan’, launched from Belagavi last year, had already seen new district presidents appointed in nearly 500 districts, with the remaining process to be completed within the next 120 days.

He stressed the need to strengthen the party organisation ahead of Assembly elections in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry in 2026.

Electoral roll revision, agencies and regional concerns

Kharge also raised concerns over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, alleging a conspiracy to curtail democratic rights. He urged party workers to ensure that the names of poor and marginalised voters, including Dalits, Adivasis, backward classes and minorities, were not deleted or shifted.

Condemning the alleged misuse of central agencies such as the ED, IT and CBI against opposition leaders, he said the Congress would continue to fight its legal battles.

Kharge further expressed concern over recent attacks on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh and accused the BJP of attempting to disturb communal harmony in India during Christmas celebrations, saying such incidents harmed the country’s global image.

The capital of Kyiv came under a large-scale missile and drone attack overnight on December 27, with multiple explosions reported across the Ukrainian capital and surrounding regions, one day ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as diplomatic efforts continue to end the four-year-long running war.

According to the Kyiv Independent, citing monitoring sources, the capital was hit by a large-scale ballistic missile assault as Russia fired multiple Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, four Iskander ballistic missiles, and several Kalibr cruise missiles at the city.

Numerous explosions throughout the capital were heard, as in the surrounding Kyiv Oblast, Kyiv Independent reported.

In Brovary, a town about 20 kilometres northeast of Kyiv, the strikes caused power outages affecting the town and nearby areas.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed the attack in a post on Telegram, urging residents to remain in shelters.

“Explosions in the capital. Air defence forces are working. Stay in shelters!” he wrote.

Ukraine’s Air Force also issued a series of urgent alerts, warning of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operating over Kyiv and nearby regions.
According to the Air Force, UAVs were detected over Kyiv itself, as well as in parts of the Kyiv region, including areas near Velyka Dymerka and west of the village of Pereyaslav, heading south.

Additional UAV activities were also reported in the southern part of the Chernihiv region, moving toward Kyiv Oblast.

“Kyiv, take cover! There is an attack UAV in the air over the city,” the Air Force warned in one of its alerts.

This attack on Ukraine’s capital comes a day after the Ukrainian President confirmed his meeting with US President Trump, acting as a mediator in the peace talks to end the war, in Florida on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Zelenskyy said the meeting could help move discussions closer to a settlement, though he cautioned that no final agreement should be expected immediately, CNN reported.

He further stated that both sides would focus on resolving as many outstanding issues as possible.

Zelenskyy also said the 20-point peace plan proposed by US and Ukrainian officials is 90 per cent ready and that talks with Trump would focus on long-term security guarantees for Ukraine and the role of its allies in ensuring stability after the war, as reported by CNN.

However, during an interview, Trump said that any peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia would require his approval, Politico reported.

“He doesn’t have anything until I approve it,” Trump said. “So we’ll see what he’s got,” he added.

Meanwhile, Russia’s Ministry of Defence said that its forces have continued advancing on the frontlines in southern Ukraine while carrying out a series of large-scale strikes across Ukrainian territory in response to what it described as Ukrainian attacks on civilian targets inside Russia.

According to the ministry’s statement in Telegram, units of the Vostok Group of Forces advanced deeper into Ukrainian defensive positions and, following what it called “decisive actions”, captured the settlement of Kosovtsevo in the Zaporizhzhia region.

“The Vostok Group’s units continued to advance to the depths of the enemy’s defence and, as a result of decisive actions, liberated the settlement of Kosovtsevo in Zaporozhye region,” the statement read.

The Defence Ministry also said that between December 20 and December 26, Russian forces conducted one “massive” and five “group” strikes against targets in Ukraine.

The strikes reportedly included the use of Kinzhal hypersonic air-launched ballistic missiles.

It noted that the attacks were carried out in response to alleged Ukrainian “terrorist attacks” against civilian infrastructure in the Russian Federation.

According to the statement, the strikes targeted enterprises linked to Ukraine’s defence industry, energy facilities supplying those enterprises, and transport infrastructure and further claimed that the strikes hit airfields, ports, and depot infrastructure allegedly used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

“In response to the terrorist attacks launched by Ukraine against civilian facilities in the Russian Federation from 20 to 26 December 2025, the Russian Armed Forces carried out one massive and five group strikes including by Kinzhal hypersonic air-launched ballistic missiles.

They hit enterprises of the Ukrainian defence industry, energy facilities providing them with work, transport, airfield, port and depot infrastructure used for the benefit of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, assembly facilities, storage areas of long-range strike unmanned aerial vehicles, fuel and military equipment depots as well as temporary deployment areas of Ukrainian armed formations and foreign mercenaries,” the statement added.

Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur added another feather to her illustrious career by becoming the most successful captain in women’s T20I cricket, overtaking Australian great Meg Lanning in terms of most wins as skipper.

Harmanpreet achieved the milestone during the third T20I against Sri Lanka, where India sealed the five-match series 3-0 with an eight-wicket victory at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The match was also historic, as it marked the first-ever women’s international fixture at the venue.

With this win, Harmanpreet now has 77 victories in 130 T20Is as captain, registering a win percentage of 58.46, alongside 48 losses and five no results. She surpassed Lanning, who led Australia to 76 wins in 100 matches, losing just 18 games, with one tie and five no results.

In the match, Harmanpreet contributed 21 runs off 18 balls, including two boundaries, while Shafali Verma continued her sensational form with a blistering 79 not out off 42 balls, smashing 11 fours and three sixes. It was Shafali’s second successive fifty, and she has now amassed 333 runs in eight T20Is this year at an average of 55.50 and a strike rate of over 173, including three half-centuries.

India’s bowlers laid the foundation earlier after the hosts won the toss and opted to field. Sri Lanka were restricted to 112/7 in 20 overs, with Imesha Dulani (27 off 32), Hasini Perera (25 off 18), and Kavisha Dilhari (20 off 13) being the only batters to cross the 20-run mark. Renuka Singh starred with the ball, returning figures of 4/21.

Deepti Sharma smashes records

Deepti Sharma (3/18) etched her name into the record books as the spin all-rounder became the first Indian across men’s and women’s cricket to claim 150 T20I wickets. Her 151st scalp in the match also saw her become the joint-highest wicket-taker in women’s T20Is, drawing level with Australia’s Megan Schutt. With her overall tally rising to 333 international wickets, Deepti further cemented her legacy by becoming the third-highest wicket-taker in women’s international cricket, surpassing Australia great Ellyse Perry.

Chasing a modest target, India raced home in just 13.2 overs, riding on Shafali’s explosive knock and a steady contribution from Harmanpreet, to complete a comprehensive eight-wicket win.

Having already guided India to their first-ever ICC Women’s World Cup title, Harmanpreet will now look to add another historic achievement by leading the side to their maiden Women’s T20 World Cup crown, with the tournament scheduled to be held in the UK in June-July next year.

England opener Ben Duckett completed 3,000 Test runs on Saturday.

Duckett, the 31-year-old left-handed opener, achieved the milestone during England’s fourth Ashes Test, a Boxing Day affair at Melbourne. In a run-chase of a modest 175 runs, Duckett crossed the 30-run mark for the first time in the series, scoring a 26-ball 34, with four boundaries and a six at a strike rate of 130.77.

Now in 42 Tests, he has scored 3,005 runs at an average of 40.06 and a strike rate of 86.44, including six centuries and 16 fifties in 78 innings and a best score of 182.

In the ongoing Ashes series, Duckett has been less than sub-par, having made just 133 runs across eight innings in four Tests at an average of 16.62, with a best score of 34. His off-field controversies has not helped him either as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is investigating the verification of a video showing him apparently drunk and struggling to find his way back to the team hotel during the team’s break to Noosa following a thumping loss in the second Test at Brisbane.

Coming to the match, England won the toss and opted to bowl first. Josh Tongue (5/45) took England’s first-ever Boxing Day Test five-wicket haul at MCG, as Australia were skittled out for 152 runs in 45.2 overs, with Michael Neser (35 in 49 balls, with seven fours) and Usman Khawaja (29 in 52 balls, with two fours) being the top scorers for Australia. Neser also shared a half-century stand with Cameron Green (17) before a run out triggered another collapse ending in an all-out.

England was bundled out for 110 in 29.5 overs in their first innings, with Harry Brook (41 in 34 balls, with two fours and two sixes) and Gus Atkinson (28 in 35 balls, with three fours and a six). A mix of England’s ‘Bazball’ approach failing yet again and the pitch being absolutely unplayable for batters gave Neser (4/45) and hometown hero Scott Boland (3/30) easy wickets. England trailed by 42 runs.

In their second innings, Australia failed to make an impact, once again pointing to the pitch’s venomous and treacherous nature. Only Travis Head (46 in 67 balls, with four boundaries) and Steve Smith (24* in 39 balls, with a four) crossed the 20-run mark as England bundled them out for just 132 runs in 34.3 overs. Aussies led by 174 runs, setting an easy 175 to win for England. Brydon Carse (4/34) and skipper Ben Stokes (3/24) were the top bowlers for England.

England ended the second session at 77/2, needing 98 to win.

Tensions between Washington and Beijing escalated over the supply of weapons to Taiwan, as China imposed sanctions on 20 US defence-related companies and 10 senior executives involved in arms sales to Taiwan in recent years.

The countermeasures include freezing the movable and immovable properties and other assets of the companies and senior executives within China, prohibiting organisations and individuals in China from engaging in transactions, cooperation, and other activities with them, and barring the executives from entering China including the Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions, according to the Foreign Ministry.

The 20 companies targeted include Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, L3Harris Maritime Services, and Boeing in St. Louis.
The 10 individuals on the list include Palmer Luckey, founder of defence firm Anduril Industries, and John Cantillon, Vice President of L3Harris Technologies.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said that US arming of Taiwan “seriously violates the one-China principle and the three China–US Joint Communiqués, interferes in China’s internal affairs, and undermines China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

“Pursuant to Articles 3, 4, 5, 6, 9 and 15 of the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Countering Foreign Sanctions, China hereby decides to take countermeasures against the following US military-related companies and senior executives.”

The countermeasures are in accordance with the Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law, the ministry said in an online statement.

The US State Department announced last Wednesday a massive package of arms sales to the Taiwan region valued at more than USD10 billion, including medium-range missiles, howitzers, and drones.

The deal, if approved by the US Congress, would mark the largest-ever American weapons package to Taiwan.
The Chinese spokesperson said that anyone who attempts to cross the line and make provocations on the Taiwan question will be met with China’s firm response, the Global Times reported

Any company or individual engaging in arms sales to Taiwan will pay the price for the wrongdoing, the spokesperson added.

For the 20 companies listed in the attached list of targets of countermeasures includes Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, L3 Harris Maritime Services, Boeing in St. Louis, Gibbs & Cox Inc., Advanced Acoustic Concepts, VSE Corporation, Sierra Technical Services Inc., Red Cat Holdings Inc., Teal Drones Inc., ReconCraft, High Point Aerotechnologies, Epirus Inc., Dedrone Holdings Inc., Area-I, Blue Force Technologies, Dive Technologies, Vantor, Intelligent Epitaxy Technology Inc., Rhombus Power Inc., and Lazarus Enterprises Inc.,
Their movable and immovable properties, and other kinds of assets within China shall be frozen; and all organizations and individuals within China shall be prohibited from engaging in transaction, cooperation and other activities with them, the statement said.

Ten senior executives who have been listed in the attached list of targets of countermeasures include Palmer Luckey, founder of Anduril Industries; John Cantillon, Vice President of L3Harris Technologies, Inc., Vice President and Principal Accounting Officer of L3Harris Maritime Services; Michael J. Carnovale, President and Chief Executive Officer of Advanced Acoustic Concepts; John A. Cuomo, President and Chief Executive Officer of VSE Corporation; Mitch McDonald, President of Teal Drones, Inc.; Anshuman Roy, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Rhombus Power Inc.; Dan Smoot, President and Chief Executive Officer of Vantor; Aaditya Devarakonda, Chief Executive Officer of Dedrone Holdings Inc.; Ann Wood, President of High Point Aerotechnologies; and Jay Hoflich, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of ReconCraft.

Their movable and immovable properties, and other kinds of assets within China shall be frozen; all organizations and individuals within China shall be prohibited from engaging in transaction, cooperation and other activities with them; and they shall be denied visas or entry into China (including Hong Kong and Macao).

The decision comes into force from December 26, 2025.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday paid tribute to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on the occasion of his Parkash Utsav.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “On the sacred Parkash Utsav of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, we bow in reverence to him. He remains an embodiment of courage, compassion and sacrifice.”

Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, is revered for his role in shaping Sikhism and his contributions to Indian history. His teachings emphasize standing up for truth, justice, and protecting human dignity.

PM Modi also shared pictures from his visit to Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib earlier this year, where he had Darshan of the Holy Jore Sahib of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Mata Sahib Kaur Ji.

The second day of Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) Season 2 saw teams showcase contrasting styles at the Noida Indoor Stadium, with the day featuring a thrilling one-point finish alongside dominant victories that underlined the league’s growing competitiveness.

The day began with Awadh Ramdoots edging past Kanpur Warriors 35-34 in a tense contest that remained undecided until the final raid. Kanpur Warriors went into halftime with a 17-15 advantage after a late super raid by Sushant, but Awadh Ramdoots showed resilience in the second half. Captain Abhimanyu Raghuvanshi led the fightback, while Awadh’s defence stood firm under pressure to secure a narrow but crucial win, as per a press release.

In the second match, Kashi Kings produced one of the most dominant performances of the tournament so far, defeating Ganga Kings of Mirzapur 52-30. Kashi Kings controlled proceedings throughout the match, inflicting six all-outs and steadily pulling away on the scoreboard. Raider of the Match Arjun Sirohi led the attack, while Best Defender Vipul Chaudhary marshalled the defence effectively.

Defending champions Lucknow Lions continued their strong run with a convincing 40-21 victory over Purvanchal Panthers. Lucknow Lions set the tone early, with Arjun Deshwal opening the match with a super raid and guiding his team to a 20-8 lead at halftime. Purvanchal attempted to mount a comeback after the break, but Lucknow halted the momentum with four timely super tackles. Deshwal finished as Raider of the Match with nine raid points and three tackle points, while Mohd Aman was named Defender of the Match with seven tackle points.

The final match of the day saw Aligarh Tigers overcome a strong challenge from last season’s runners-up Sangam Challengers, winning 42-32. Sangam Challengers started strongly with disciplined defence and forced an early all-out, but Aligarh Tigers responded with improved execution in the second half. Defenders Vashu and Akshya Rathi delivered crucial super tackles, while raiders Kunal Bhati (eight raid points) and Anuj (ten raid points) maintained sustained pressure. A late super raid by Vinay Tewatia resulted in two decisive all-outs, sealing the win for Aligarh.

Kabaddi action continues at the Noida Indoor Stadium on Saturday, with matches scheduled to begin from 5:00 PM onwards, as Yamuna Yoddhas face Gazab Ghaziabad, Kanpur Warriors take on Ganga Kings of Mirzapur, Noida Ninjas meet Awadh Ramdoots, and Aligarh Tigers play Kashi Kings.

England stand on cusp of ending their 18-match winless Test match run in Australia as the opening pair of Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett put them in the driver’s seat with a fifty partnership chasing 175 runs to secure the prestigious Boxing Day Test fixture at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), ending the second session on day two on a high.

At the end of the session, England was 77/2, with Crawley (22*) and Jacob Bethell (9*) unbeaten, and the Three Lions left with 98 runs to chase down.

Australia started the second session at 98/6, with Steve Smith (16*) and Cameron Green (6*). England did begin on a shaky note, with Josh Tongue bowling a no ball and conceeding two successive fours against Green to start off the opening over, bringing up the 100-run mark in 25.3 overs.

Just when it seemed Smith and Green were building a partnership, skipper Ben Stokes produced a miracle for England, removing Green for a 29-ball 19, with three fours, as he chased a wide delivery and edged it straight to Harry Brook at slips. Australia was 119/7 in 30.5 overs.
The Three Lions did not take much time in dismantling the tail, bowling out Australia for 132 runs in 34.3 overs, with a lead of 174 runs, giving England a target of 175 runs to win.

Brydon Carse (4/34), skipper Stokes (3/24), and Tongue (2/44) were the pick the bowlers for England.

In the run chase of 175 runs, England started off well, with Mitchell Starc offering a freebie to Zak Crawley for four in the first over itself. The Bazballing started to come right for England as Duckett launched Starc for a four backward of square, followed by Crawley launching Michael Neser for a six and a four in the fifth over.

Neser struggled against the aggressive intent of openers, even becoming the victim of a brilliant lap shot over the wicketkeeper’s head by Duckett, who looked back to his absolute best, though too late for England. With a hard slash against Starc by Duckett, England registered their first 50-run stand this Ashes in just 6.5 overs. However, Starc avenged this rare humiliation by cleaning up Duckett for 26-ball 34 (with four boundaries and a six) on the next ball. England was 51/1 in seven overs.

Brydon Carse was sent at number three, but became quick lunch for Jhye Richardson, playing his first Test in four years, scoring just six in eight balls. England was 65/2 in 9.5 overs.

The pair of Crawley and Jacob Bethell took England through the remainder of the session without any further loss of wickets.

At the end of the first session, Australia was 98/6 in 25 overs, with Smith (16*) and Green (6*). They lead by 140 runs and are left with just four wickets, within which they have to set something challenging for England in what has been an absolute heaven for bowlers so far. However, English pacer Gus Atkinson had to leave the field due to some soreness in his hamstring just a few overs into the session.
Australia started off their day at 4/0, with Scott Boland (4*) and Travis Head (0*) unbeaten.

Six overs into the session, Gus Atkinson produced a breakthrough for England, removing Boland, the nightwatchman, for just six after he nicked one into keeper Jamie Smith’s hands. Australia was one down for 22 in 6.1 overs.

The arrival of skipper Ben Stokes led to the perishing of Jake Weatherald for just five in 15 balls, with his stumps in a mess. Australia was 40/2 in 10.5 overs.

Australia reached the 50-run mark in 13.3 overs.

Marnus Labuschagne’s poor Ashes run continued as he handed an easy catch to Joe Root at first slip for just eight in 18 balls, giving Josh Tongue his first of the innings and sixth of the match. Australia was 61/3 in 17.3 overs.

Head’s resistance came to an ugly end courtesy a scrambled seam delivery from Brydon Carse that hit the top of his off-stump, beating the edge of his bat. The left-hander took a long walk back for 67-ball 46, with four boundaries, with Australia left at 82/4 in 21 overs.

Usman Khawaja’s MCG Boxing Day Test journey concluded on a disappointing note as he gave an easy catch to substitute fielder, Ollie Pope and Tongue got him for a two-ball duck, with half the Aussie side down at 83 runs.

Carse also removed Alex Carey for just four. Australia sank to 88/6.

Smith and Green played out the remainder of the session without another loss of wickets.

Meanwhile, England elected to bowl first, and a five-wicket haul from Josh Tongue (5/45) bowled out Australia for just 152 in the first innings, with Neser (35 in 49 balls, with seven fours) and Usman Khawaja (29 in 52 balls, with two fours) being top-scorers for the Aussies.
Tongue made history, becoming the first bowler from his team to take a five-wicket haul in the prestigious Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the 21st century, playing a crucial role in cutting short Australia’s innings to just two sessions.

Tongue produced the aggression, ruthlessness and venom that England fans had been waiting for. Having already lost the Ashes Test series and extending their wait for their first triumph in Australia since 2010/11, England and particularly Tongue, came to MCG for the prestigious fixture with vengeance in their eyes. Playing for the Three Lions badge on the chest, Tongue played for the fiery English pride, which has suffered many wounds in Australia since their last Ashes series win there, having been winless over the previous 18 Tests there.

Darren Gough and Dean Headley took a five-for at the MCG in 1998.

England ended their day by huffing and puffing their way to 110 all out, with Brook top-scoring and Gus Atkinson (28 in 35 balls, with two fours and a six) grinding it out as Michael Neser (4/45) and Scott Boland (3/30) made merry. Australia ended the day at 4/0, leading by 46 runs.

Brief Scores: Australia:152 and 132 (Travis Head 46, Steve Smith 24*, Brydon Carse 4/34) against England: 110 and 77/2 (Ben Duckett 34, Zak Crawley 22*, Jhye Richardson 1/14).

As Salman Khan celebrates his 60th birthday today, it isn’t just his on-screen presence and his legendary physique that fans are always raving about, it’s the words he has made permanent in our head with his swag for life. Over a career spanning nearly four decades “Bhai” has delivered lines that have become part of India’s everyday vocabulary.

As the superstar approaches 60, these dialogues serve as a reminder of the superstar’s iconic legacy. Whether it’s “I, Me, and Myself” or the importance of “Money,” Salman Khan’s words continue to live with us making it relevant, even today. Let’s check it out!

Let’s check out the swag list 

Movie: Tiger 3 (2023)
“Jab tak Tiger mara nahi tab tak Tiger haara nahi.”

Movie: Bharat (2019)
“Jitne safed baal mere sar aur dhaadi mein hai, usse kahi jyada rangeen meri zindagi rahi hai.”

Movie: Tiger Zinda Hai (2017)
“Shikaar toh sab karte hai, lekin Tiger se behtar shikaar koi nahi karta.”

Movie: Tubelight (2017)
“Yakeen ek tubelight ki tarah hota hai, der se jalta hai, lekin jab jalta hai toh full light kar deta hai. “

Movie: Sultan (2016)
“Koi tumhe tab tak nahi hara sakta, jab tak tum khud se na haar jao.”

Movie: Kick (2014)
“Mere baare mei itna mat sochna… dil mei aata hun samajh mei nahi.”
“Aap devil ke peeche, devil aapke peeche…too much fun.”

Movie: Dabangg 2 (2012)
“Hum yaha ke Robinhood Pandey hai, Robinhood Pandey…swagat nahi karoge aap hamara?”

Movie: Bodyguard (2011)
“Mujhpe ek ehsaan karna, mujhpe koi ehsaan mat karna.”

Movie: Ready (2011)
“Zindagi mein teen cheeze kabhi underestimate mat karna I, Me, aur Myself. “

Movie: Wanted (2009)
“Ek baar jo maine commitment kar di toh mai apne aap ki bhi nhi sunta.”
“Main sirf money bhai ke liye kaam karta hoon.”

Movie: Garv: Pride and Honor (2004)
“Main maut ko takiya, aur kafan ko chaadar banakar odhta hun”

Movie: Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999)
“Agar tum mujhe yun hi dekhti rahi….to tumhe mujhse pyar ho jayega.”

Movie: Kuch kuch hota hai (1998)
“Jabse tumne pyar ko samjha hai, pyar ko jana hai…sirf us hi se pyar kiya hai.”

Movie: Jeet (1996)
“Agar mujhe malum hota ki mujhe dekhkar tumhare chehre pe hazaar watt ki muskaan phail jati … toh main kab ka aa chuka hota.”

Hum Aapke Hai Kon (1994)
“Log kehte hai khoobsurat ladkiyan jab jhoot bolti hain, toh aur bhi khoobsurat lagti hain.”

Movie: Maine Pyaar Kiya (1989)
“Dosti ka ek oosul hai madam….no sorry, no thank you.”
“Udaas hona, yun akele mein rona … is injurious to health, sehat ke liye hanikarak hota hai.”

Local favourite Surya Charishma Tamiri and the experienced Shruti Mundada upset the top two seeds in straight games to storm into the semifinals of the Senior National Badminton Championships in Vijayawada on Friday.

Surya Charishma proved too strong for top seed Unnati Hooda, winning their quarterfinals 21-12, 21-15 in just 36 minutes, while Shruti defeated second seed and former national champion Anupama Upadhyaya 22-20, 21-12 in 39 minutes.

In the semifinals, Surya Charishma will face Rakshita Sree after the 18-year-old came from a game down to beat world junior championships silver medallist Tanvi Sharma 16-21, 21-14, 21-18.

In the men’s singles category, top seed Kiran George had to work hard to overcome the challenge of 11th seed Rounak Chauhan 21-18, 21-18 in 41 minutes.

He will now face 2024 Odisha Open champion Rithvik Sanjeevi S, who defeated K Sathish Kumar 21-13, 22-20 in the other quarterfinal.

The other semifinal will see second seed M Tharun take on unseeded Bharat Raghav. In the quarter finals, Tharun defeated Manraj Singh 21-13, 22-20, while Bharat got the better of Ginpaul Sonna 21-17, 21-13.

The top seeds in women’s doubles, Rutuparna and Swetaparna Panda, were also knocked out in the pre-quarterfinal stage by Riduvarshini Ramasamy and Sania Sikkandar, who won 21-16, 21-19.

Earlier on Thursday, India’s upcoming juniors Tanvi Sharma, Rounak Chauhan, and Tanvi Patri continued their strong run in the Senior National Badminton Championships on Thursday as they registered convincing wins over their respective opponents to reach the quarterfinals.

World junior championships silver medallist Tanvi Sharma got the better of 10th seed Devika Sihag 21-11, 10-21, 21-10, while Patri packed off Parul Choudhary 21-14, 21-17 in the women’s singles pre-quarterfinals.

Tanvi Sharma will now face Rakshita Sree, who defeated Sneh Lamba 21-13, 21-11, while Patri will be up against the experienced Aakarshi Kashyap, who packed off third seed Anmol Kharb 21-18, 21-18.

Top seed Unnati Hooda and second seed Anupama Upadhyaya also sealed their quarterfinal berths with contrasting wins. Unnati had to come back from a game down to beat M Meghana Reddy 19-21, 21-14, 21-12, while Anupama defeated Anvi Rathore 21-13, 21-5.

Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to an “immediate ceasefire” effective from 12:00 noon (local time) on Saturday as part of a joint effort to de-escalate tensions along their shared border following weeks of intense clashes, which resulted in the death of over 100 people and the displacement of over half a million.

According to a Joint Statement issued following the 3rd Special General Border Committee (GBC) Meeting held at the Prum-Ban Pak Kard International Point of Entry between the two nations, both sides noted “the importance of conducting discussions on the peaceful settlement of disputes in an atmosphere of trust, sincerity, good faith, fairness, and mutual respect in accordance with the purpose and principles of the United Nations Charter, the ASEAN Charter and Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, paving the way for a new chapter of peace and cooperation between the two nations.”

Both sides recalled the ASEAN Chair’s Statement from the Special ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on December 22, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They reiterated their commitment to refrain from the threat or use of force and reaffirmed their adherence to the July 28 ceasefire arrangement and other bilateral agreements.

Under the de-escalation measures, both sides agreed to “an immediate ceasefire after the time of signature of this Joint Statement with effect from 12:00 hours noon (local time) on 27 December 2025, involving all types of weapons, including attacks on civilians, civilian objects and infrastructures, and military objectives of either side, in all cases and all areas.”

“Both sides must avoid unprovoked firing or advancement or movement of troops towards the other side’s positions or troops. This agreement must not be violated under any circumstances,” the statement added.

The statement further reaffirmed obligations under the Ottawa Convention on anti-personnel mines and outlined cooperation on humanitarian demining through the Joint Coordinating Task Force. Both sides also pledged enhanced cooperation to combat transnational crimes, including cyber scams and human trafficking.

“Both sides reaffirm their obligations under the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mine and on Their Destruction (Ottawa Convention). Both sides will work together through the Joint Coordinating Task Force (JCTF) on Humanitarian Demining in accordance with the agreed Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to make timely progress on demining efforts along the border,” the statement read.

“Both sides agree to adhere to the Action Plan for Cooperation on the Prevention and Suppression of Transnational Crimes, including Cyber Scams and Human Trafficking,” it added.

As a confidence-building step, the statement said that 18 Cambodian soldiers would also be returned after the ceasefire had been fully maintained for 72 hours, in line with the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration of October 26.

The meeting was co-chaired by Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, General Tea Seiha, and Thailand’s Minister of Defence, General Nattaphon Narkphanit, with the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) as observers, and emphasised peaceful resolution and mutual respect in line with international norms.

This agreement comes amid recent border clashes that have raised regional concerns, with ASEAN playing a pivotal role in mediation to promote stability and prosperity.

The Delhi Police detained nearly 2,800 people and arrested around 600 within 24 hours across the Southern Range under Operation Aaghat 3.0, as part of a major push against organised and repeat crime ahead of the New Year.

Southern Range Joint Commissioner of Police SK Jain told news agency ANI that the operation was aimed at taking firm legal action against bootleggers, habitual offenders and drug peddlers. He said the strongest results had come from sustained action against repeat offenders.

“Legal action has been taken against 155 habitual offenders under various sections of the law,” Jain said, calling it one of the key successes of the drive.

During the operation, police recovered 24 country-made pistols, 44 knives and 30 live rounds under the Arms Act.

Authorities have also seized more than 22,000 quarters of illegal liquor and arrested over 60 bootleggers.

Action under the Public Gambling Act led to the recovery of around Rs 2 lakh in betting money, while more than 350 people were booked for drinking in public places.

Stolen property was also traced, including 310 mobile phones reported as snatched, robbed or lost, as well as 231 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler.

Operation Aaghat phases

Operation Aaghat 3.0 follows earlier enforcement drives carried out in September and October, which saw hundreds apprehended and firearms and narcotics seized. Police said the current phase builds on those efforts with wider coordination and a sharper focus on habitual offenders.

The Delhi Police said such intelligence-based, coordinated operations would continue in the coming days to maintain law and order and ensure heightened security across the capital during the New Year period.