The Election Commission of India has revised the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) timetable, extending the deadline for electoral roll updates in seven states and Union Territories, including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, following requests from chief electoral officers. New deadlines for voter enumeration and draft roll publications have been set to later December dates. However, West Bengal’s SIR schedule remains unchanged, with no extension granted despite political calls for relief. The decision highlights the poll body’s attempt to balance administrative needs with procedural timelines ahead of upcoming elections. (PC: NDTV)

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado appeared in Oslo to collect her Nobel Peace Prize after months in hiding. She travelled secretly despite a travel ban and threats from the Maduro government, which warned she would be treated as a fugitive. Machado greeted cheering supporters from a hotel balcony before meeting her family for the first time in nearly two years. She said she understands the risks but believes her work for democracy must continue. Her escape from Venezuela reportedly involved disguises and passing several military checkpoints. Machado said many people helped her make the dangerous journey to Norway. (PC: BBC)

Mexico has approved a new tariff plan that increases import duties on more than 1,400 products from countries without trade deals, including India. Some goods will face tariffs as high as 50%, while most will fall under the 35% range. The new rates will start next year and expand through 2026. India exports items like textiles, auto parts, steel and engineering goods to Mexico, and these will now become costlier. Experts say the move may be linked to pressure from the US before the USMCA review. Indian exporters may face higher costs and reduced access to the Mexican market. (PC: HT)

Union Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu said that IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers was “apologising to the people of India” in the viral photo where he is seen folding his hands. The minister said the gesture was not directed at him alone but at all passengers who faced trouble due to IndiGo’s major flight disruptions this week. Thousands of travellers were stuck at airports across the country after the airline cancelled many flights. The minister said the government has asked IndiGo to fix the situation quickly. He also warned that airlines must not cause such problems for passengers again. (PC: X)

Lionel Messi will arrive in Kolkata on December 13 to begin his GOAT India Tour 2025. This will be his first visit to India since 2011, and the city is preparing for a huge welcome. Messi is scheduled for a meet-and-greet, the virtual unveiling of his statue, and a friendly match at Yuva Bharati Stadium. He will then fly to Hyderabad later in the day. Kolkata is expected to see large crowds as fans gather to see the football legend. Former Barcelona star Luis Suárez and Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul will join Messi for parts of the tour. (PC: X)

Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, linked to the Goa nightclub fire that killed 25 people, flew to Thailand soon after the blaze. With growing criticism, the Centre used Section 10A of the Passport Act to suspend their passports, making their stay in Thailand illegal. The CBI also issued a Blue Corner notice. Thai authorities then detained the brothers, and Indian officials are now travelling to bring them back. The fire began during a musical event where electric firecrackers were used. Heavy flammable decor and poor safety measures turned the club into a death trap. The brothers have sought anticipatory bail in Delhi.  (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump has launched the “Trump Gold Card,” a new visa scheme for wealthy foreigners who pay at least $1 million. The card promises fast-tracked residency and a direct path to citizenship for qualified applicants. A $5 million “platinum” version with tax breaks will also be offered. Trump said the plan will help the US attract high-level talent. Critics say the scheme favours the rich, especially as the administration tightens other immigration rules and raises visa fees. The Gold Card requires a $15,000 non-refundable processing fee, and businesses sponsoring employees must pay $2 million. (PC: BBC)

Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, wanted in the Goa nightclub fire that killed 25 people, have been detained in Thailand. The first photos show the brothers in custody with their hands tied and passports in hand. They fled to Phuket hours after the fire at Birch by Romeo Lane in Arpora. They face charges of culpable homicide and negligence. Officials say the process to send them back to India has begun. The fire started during a musical event and spread fast due to flammable decor and lack of safety gear. Police have already arrested four staff members and a business partner. (PC: HT)

A car selfie of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin was displayed in the US Congress during a foreign policy hearing. Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove used the image to warn that US actions are pushing India closer to Russia. She said the Trump administration’s pressure tactics are hurting long-term trust between Washington and New Delhi. The Congresswoman urged lawmakers to act fast to repair the relationship. The selfie was taken during Putin’s recent visit to Delhi, where he rode with Modi shortly after landing. Putin said the gesture was his idea and a symbol of friendship.

Italy’s cuisine has been added to UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage, marking a major cultural win for the country. The UNESCO panel recognised Italian food as a social ritual that brings families and communities together. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the honour reflects Italy’s identity and long tradition of cooking. UNESCO praised the daily food customs, such as family lunches and recipes passed down through generations. The listing is expected to boost tourism and support small family-run restaurants facing economic pressure. Italy joins several nations whose food traditions have been recognised for their cultural importance. (PC; Al Jazeera)