After years of being overlooked in IPL auctions, Sarfaraz Khan finally found a buyer at the 2026 IPL mini-auction when Chennai Super Kings (CSK) signed him at his base price of ₹75 lakh. The domestic batting star had impressed with a blistering 22-ball 73 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy just hours before the auction, highlighting his form. Sarfaraz took to Instagram to thank CSK for giving his career “a new life,” expressing gratitude and optimism after years of IPL exclusion. The move ends a long-standing snub and boosts his chances of making an impact on cricket’s biggest stage. (PC: NDTV)

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner M. Riaz Hamidullah to express serious concerns over the security of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka following reported threats, underscoring the host country’s obligation to protect diplomatic missions under international norms. The move reflects New Delhi’s demand for stronger safety measures for its embassy and staff amid rising diplomatic sensitivities. Bangladesh, while addressing the security issue, continues to emphasise its commitment to bilateral ties and regional peace, even as both sides manage complex diplomatic interactions. 

Global football icon Lionel Messi visited Vantara, a wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, founded by Anant Ambani, blending cultural immersion with nature care. Messi, accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, received a traditional Indian welcome with folk music, floral greetings and a ceremonial aarti, participating in Hindu rituals for peace and unity. He toured Vantara’s expansive conservation ecosystem, observing rescued lions, tigers, elephants, reptiles and other animals under advanced care, and interacted with veterinary teams. A lion cub was named “Lionel” in his honour, highlighting appreciation for his visit and the centre’s mission. (PC: X)

Former Bollywood actress Zaira Wasim has demanded an unconditional apology from Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar after a video went viral showing him pulling down the hijab of a newly appointed AYUSH doctor during a public event in Patna. Wasim, known for her roles in Dangal and Secret Superstar, called the act a violation of a woman’s dignity and modesty, saying power should not be used to “violate boundaries.” The incident has sparked widespread criticism online and from political parties, with many condemning the gesture as disrespectful and insensitive to personal and religious rights. (PC: X)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Ethiopia resulted in elevating bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, marking a major diplomatic milestone. The two nations signed several agreements, including cooperation on customs, establishing a data centre, and training in UN peacekeeping operations. A debt-restructuring MoU under the G20 Common Framework was also inked to support Ethiopia’s economic stability. India will double ICCR scholarships for Ethiopian students and offer specialised AI courses. Healthcare cooperation includes upgrading Addis Ababa’s Mahatma Gandhi Hospital’s maternal and neonatal care capacity. During the visit, Ethiopia conferred its highest honour on PM Modi. (PC: Mint)

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, where they discussed strengthening India-Israel bilateral ties, prioritising cooperation in technology, economy, connectivity and security. Jaishankar, who conveyed warm wishes from PM Narendra Modi, said the talks reflected both sides’ confidence that the strategic partnership will grow from strength to strength. He also held meetings with President Isaac Herzog and other senior Israeli leaders. The visit builds momentum ahead of a proposed future visit by Netanyahu to India, with both nations exploring closer engagement across multiple sectors. (PC: PTI)

Prithvi Shaw made a dramatic social media U-turn after being bought by Delhi Capitals at the IPL 2026 auction. The India batter initially went unsold twice at his Rs 75 lakh base price, prompting him to post "It's Ok" with a heartbreak emoji on Instagram. However, Delhi Capitals revived his name in a late bid and acquired him. Shaw promptly deleted his heartbreak post within six minutes, replacing it with "Back to my family" alongside a heart emoji, resharing DC's welcome post. The 25-year-old represented Delhi Capitals from 2018-2024 and recently switched from Mumbai to Maharashtra in domestic cricket, scoring the fastest Ranji Trophy double century in October. (PC: NDTV Sports)

Babblejit Kaur, a 60-year-old Indian-origin woman, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a green card interview on December 1 in the US. Living in America since 1994, Kaur settled in California with her husband, running Natraj Cuisine of India and Nepal restaurant for over 20 years until COVID-19 closure in 2020. She also worked 25 years at Rite Aid pharmacy. Kaur has no criminal record and had an approved green card petition from her US citizen daughter and son-in-law. Her family claims they haven't been allowed to meet her since detention. She was transferred to Adelanto ICE detention center, with hands and feet shackled. (PC: NDTV)

Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa's Homebound has been shortlisted among 15 films for Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar, India's official Oscar entry competed against films from Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and others. Five films from this shortlist will advance to final nominations, announced January 22, 2026. The film explores friendship between two childhood friends aspiring to become police officers while facing systemic and societal obstacles. Produced by Dharma Movies with Martin Scorsese as executive producer, Homebound premiered at Cannes Film Festival and Toronto International Film Festival, currently streaming on Netflix.

Sai Jadhav, 23, has created history by becoming the first woman officer to pass out from the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun after 93 years, ending a wait since the institution's 1932 establishment. Commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Territorial Army, she underwent six months of rigorous training alongside male cadets through special permission. Sai represents the fourth generation of military service in her family, following her great-grandfather (British Army), grandfather, and father Sandeep Jadhav (current Indian Army officer). Over 67,000 male officers graduated before her. Currently, eight women cadets from NDA's 2022 intake are training, marking expanding opportunities for women in armed forces. (PC: X)