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US President Donald Trump said a Ukraine-Russia peace deal is “very close,” though European leaders remain doubtful as Russian strikes continue on Kyiv. A revised US plan now better reflects Ukraine’s interests, but “delicate” issues persist. France’s President Macron warned there is no sign Russia wants a ceasefire, despite ongoing US-Ukraine talks in Geneva.
Indian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Randhir condemned China’s claim over Zhangwan, its name for Arunachal Pradesh, reaffirming that Arunachal is an integral part of India. He said India has already lodged a protest with Beijing and noted that China has yet to explain its violation of aviation deals, despite denying India’s rightful stand.
Karnataka Congress legislators visiting Delhi to push for DK Shivakumar’s elevation as Chief Minister said the final decision rests with the party leadership. Ramanagara MLA Iqbal Hussain expressed strong confidence, insisting Shivakumar will “200%” become CM soon. He added that the transfer of power is a “secret deal” decided by a few top leaders.
Former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad is set to become KSCA president unopposed on Dec 7 after his nomination was approved, while rivals were rejected or withdrew. Other ex-cricketers, including Sujith Somasundar and Avinash Vaidya, also cleared scrutiny. Prasad earlier served as KSCA vice-president during Anil Kumble’s tenure, with Javagal Srinath as secretary.
The UN has begun the search for its next Secretary-General, inviting nominations to replace Antonio Guterres from 2027. Member states are urged to consider women, with early names including Michelle Bachelet and Rafael Grossi. Regional diversity is encouraged. The Security Council starts selection in July, before the Assembly elects the final candidate.
Army Chief Gen Upendra will visit Sri Lanka on Dec 1-2 to strengthen military ties and discuss regional security. He will meet political and military leaders to review challenges in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions. The visit aims to boost defence cooperation, joint training, professional exchanges, and operational collaboration between both armies.
PM Modi attended the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur in Kurukshetra, releasing a commemorative stamp and coin. He praised the Guru for protecting faith and helping Kashmiri Hindus during Mughal rule. Modi also inaugurated the Panchjanya memorial, toured the Mahabharata Anubhav Kendra, and hoisted the saffron flag atop the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
India’s new labour code allows employees to claim gratuity after just one year, instead of five. Gratuity is a reward for continuous service and can be calculated as: Last basic salary × (15/26) × Years of service. The 26 accounts for weekly holidays deducted from each month, making the calculation fair and standardised.
Hyderabad sub-inspector S Krishnakanth was not allowed to observe Ayyappa Mala Deeksha while on duty, as it violates police conduct rules. The memo stated officers cannot grow hair or wear religious attire on duty. Those wishing to observe Deeksha must apply for leave. The 41-day vow includes discipline, vegetarianism, and personal purity.
India has declared a no-fly zone spanning 14,000 kilometers over the Bay of Bengal from December 6 to 8 in anticipation of a possible missile test. Aviation authorities have informed airlines and pilots to steer clear of the restricted airspace. The move aims to ensure safety during the planned military activity in the region.
President Droupadi Murmu emphasized that tax collection should be smooth and minimally discomforting for taxpayers. She highlighted their role in nation-building, enforcing law and facilitating legitimate trade. Murmu praised recent GST reforms, urging officers to balance enforcement with economic growth while fostering trust and inclusive development.
India’s Russian oil imports may drop to a three-year low in December as refiners avoid sanctioned suppliers and face tighter bank scrutiny. Most refiners have halted Russian purchases, while others limit buys to non-sanctioned entities. The shift has boosted US oil’s share in India’s imports as Washington pressures New Delhi.
China dismissed claims that its Shanghai airport officials harassed an Arunachal Pradesh-born Indian woman and followed legal norms. UK-based traveller Pema Wangjom Thongdok said officials labelled her passport “invalid” solely because it listed Arunachal as her birthplace. Her brief layover turned into a distressing three-hour ordeal.
Bihar’s new Cabinet, led by CM Nitish Kumar, approved a plan to generate one crore jobs in five years. Chief Secretary Pratyay Amrit said initiatives include a defense corridor, semiconductor park, tech hubs, AI mission, and start-up support. The govt will also build greenfield townships and revive nine sugar mills while establishing 25 new ones.
Piyush Goyal announced that his ministry has begun preparing Jan Vishwas Bill-3, identifying 275–300 minor business offenses. He urged traders to submit additional suggestions and a framework for a “one nation, one license” system. Goyal also highlighted that new labor codes ensure worker welfare and further enhance ease of doing business.