The UAE has stopped funding scholarships for students planning to study in the UK, citing fears of radicalisation by Muslim Brotherhood influences. While degrees remain privately accessible, government-backed funding now excludes British universities. Student numbers have dropped sharply, and UK qualifications hold reduced recognition in the UAE.
A Libyan shopkeeper received Nokia phones ordered in 2010 after a 16-year delay. Civil war disruptions trapped the shipment in warehouses. The dealer laughed while unboxing outdated models. The video went viral, highlighting conflict’s long-lasting impact and surprising value of vintage technology.
A sudden decrease or complete loss of vision is called an eye stroke, often starting with shadows or spots in front of the eyes. It occurs when blood flow to the optic nerve is blocked. People over 50, especially with diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep issues, should seek timely treatment to prevent permanent blindness.
CES 2026 showcased cutting-edge innovations, from TCS’s intelligent mobility solutions to Pliyt’s autonomous robotaxis. Highlights included AI-powered robo-chefs, laundry-folding humanoids, ping-pong-playing robots, and emotional support companions like Sirius and Cocomo. The event emphasized robotics, GenAI, and smart tech.
Telangana is experiencing a sharp rise in cold conditions, and for the first time in 2026, Hyderabad may see rainfall this week. The meteorological department said weakened low-pressure systems and the subtropical jet stream could trigger rain starting January 14. Light to moderate showers are expected in the city and surrounding areas.
Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was admitted to AIIMS, Delhi, for an MRI after fainting twice last week. He had a history of blackouts and recently underwent angioplasty. Dhankhar, 74, resigned in July 2025 citing health reasons, becoming the third Vice President in India’s history to step down mid-tenure.
Tamil Nadu BJP leader K Annamalai responded defiantly to Raj Thackeray’s “Rasmalai” jibe, daring threats against him in Mumbai. Backed by CM Devendra Fadnavis, Annamalai emphasized Mumbai’s need for capable governance ahead of January 15 civic polls, calling it India’s financial capital and criticizing opposition attempts to intimidate him.
Samsung has slashed the Galaxy S25 Ultra 5G price by ₹26,000, now available at ₹1,07,990 (₹1,03,990 with select cards) ahead of the S26 Ultra launch. Featuring a 6.9-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon processor, quad 200MP camera, and Android 15, it remains a powerful flagship option for buyers seeking performance at a discount.
Megastar Chiranjeevi’s film Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu (MSG) smashed premiere records, selling 287,100 tickets in 24 hours. Premiere shows alone grossed over $1.2 million, marking his highest-ever opening. Riding Sankranthi holiday momentum, trade analysts predict a strong first week, with audiences drawn to the film’s wholesome entertainment.
Perched on a hill, Pavagadh’s Kalika Mata Temple is a revered Shakti Peeth, linked to Goddess Sati. Open 6 am–7:30 pm, best visited October–February, it’s accessible by road, rail, or Vadodara Airport. Explore Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, local handicrafts, and hilltop views. The climb ends at the temple, but the spiritual calm lingers.
Telangana Prisons saw 42,566 admissions in 2025, an 11.8% rise from 2024. Convictions surged 81%, with sharp increases in cybercrime (135%) and drunk driving (150%). Most inmates were 18–30 years old. Over 23,000 gained literacy, 28 graduated, and 4,615 received skill training. De-addiction centres and prison industries enhanced rehabilitation efforts.
A 26‑year‑old merchant navy officer from Himachal Pradesh, Rakshit Chauhan, is among three Indians detained after the US Coast Guard seized the Russian‑flagged oil tanker Marinera in the North Atlantic on January 7. His family appealed to PM Modi and the External Affairs Minister for help, praying he returns safely before his February 19 wedding.
KC Cariappa, former KKR, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals player, announced his retirement from Indian cricket. The leg-spinner reflected on his journey from domestic cricket with Mizoram and Karnataka to IPL stints, expressing gratitude to associations, teammates, and fans. Cariappa said he will continue loving the game despite retiring from BCCI cricket.
Muslim influencer Wahida Akdhar said she received harassment and death threats for posting Instagram reels while wearing a hijab. She alleged members of her own community targeted her, accusing her of defaming her hometown. Condemning the abuse, Wahida said her content disrespects neither Islam nor religion, stressing that mindsets must change to stop such hostility.
Vivo has launched the Y500i budget smartphone in China, featuring a massive 7200mAh battery, 44W fast charging, and up to 12GB RAM with 512GB storage. The phone sports a 6.75-inch 120Hz LCD display, Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor, 50MP camera, IP68/IP69 rating, and starts at CNY 1,499 (around Rs 19,000).