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PM Modi recalled the 1026 attack and subsequent assaults on the temple, saying they failed to weaken faith and instead strengthened India’s cultural unity ahead of his January 11 Somnath visit for the Somnath Swabhiman Parv. He said repeated reconstructions symbolise unbroken civilisation, honouring generations who upheld values and national unity and pride.
Twelve newly elected Ambernath Municipal Council councillors, suspended by Congress for backing the BJP post-polls, have formally joined the saffron party. BJP Maharashtra chief Ravindra Chavan announced the move, saying it was driven by a commitment to development, not power, and faith in the government’s ability to deliver justice and growth to citizens.
Bangladesh will import 180,000 tonnes of diesel from India’s Numaligarh Refinery for 14.62 billion Taka until December. The state-run BPC will manage payments partly directly and partly via loans. Diesel will travel through the Bangladesh-India Friendship Pipeline. The deal, part of a 15-year agreement, includes a base price plus market-linked premium.
The Supreme Court will continue hearing the stray dog case, focusing on rising dog bites and poor rule implementation by states. The court warned of strict action against non-compliance and said stray animals cause accidents and deaths. Authorities shared updates on highway safety, while animal welfare groups stressed sterilization as the only long-term solution.
The three-day ‘Avakai-Amaravati’ festival, showcasing Telugu cinema, culture, arts and literature, begins today in Vijayawada. AP CM Chandrababu will inaugurate the celebrations at Punnamighat at 5 pm, with Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan and other ministers attending. As part of the event, the CM will also flag off houseboat services on the Krishna River.
PM Modi hailed India’s projected 7.4% real GDP growth for 2025‑26 as a sign that “India’s Reform Express” is gaining momentum, driven by investment and demand-led policies. Real GVA is expected to grow 7.3%, led by services, manufacturing, and construction, while nominal GDP may reach ₹357.14 lakh crore, reflecting a strong economic expansion.
A federal immigration officer shot dead a Minneapolis motorist who allegedly tried to run over agents during a crackdown, officials said. The incident escalated tensions as DHS deployed 2,000 officers across Minneapolis-St. Paul. Protests erupted, with chants against ICE, while Mayor Frey accused agents of causing chaos and demanded departure.
Assam BJP patriarch and former Union minister Kabindra Purkayastha died at Silchar Medical College on Wednesday aged 94. A former teacher, he built the party’s organisation in Assam and later served as Communications Minister in the Vajpayee-led NDA. Known for simplicity and integrity, his passing drew tributes across parties from leaders nationwide.
US President Donald Trump said Venezuela will use revenue from a new oil deal to buy only American-made goods, including agricultural products, medicines, medical devices and energy equipment. He announced this on Truth Social as part of a broader US plan tied to Venezuelan oil exports, following the capture of Nicolas Maduro and Cilia Flores.
Security forces in Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir, tightened their cordon after a gunfight with suspected terrorists in Kamadh Nullah forest near Kahog village. The Special Operations Group (SOG) and CRPF engaged two to three terrorists despite darkness and dense terrain. It is unclear if anyone was hit, and the search operation continues.
Two workers died and six others were seriously injured after a boiler explosion at the Inamdar Sugar Factory in Belagavi, Karnataka. The accident happened around 2 pm when hot material spilled from the boiler. Four injured workers are in critical condition. Police have registered a case and started an investigation into the incident.
Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan condemned the alleged assault of a Hindu widow in Bangladesh, calling the violence unacceptable. The woman was reportedly attacked by two men in Jhenaidah district. Dhawan expressed sorrow and prayed for justice for the survivor. The incident comes amid rising attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.
Farmers who previously received Rythu Bandhu funds do not need to apply again. Only new farmers must submit applications. They should approach their Mandal Agriculture Officer or Cluster Officer, fill out the application form, and attach copies of their Passbook, Aadhaar card, and bank account to apply for the Rythu Bharosa scheme.
India’s economy is expected to grow 7.4 percent in FY26, up from 6.5 percent last year, according to government data. Growth will be driven by strong manufacturing and services sectors. Services may grow 9.1 percent, manufacturing 7 percent, while agriculture growth may slow to 3.1 percent. India will remain the fastest-growing major economy.
Salim Malik, one of the 11 accused in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case, has filed a fresh bail application citing parity with others. He faces similar criminal conspiracy charges related to the anti-CAA/NRC meeting. The plea was submitted before Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai after the Supreme Court granted bail to five accused.