At least six people died after a massive fire broke out at a private hospital in Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, early on Thursday morning. Local authorities confirmed that 29 patients were transferred to Dindigul Government Hospital. Rescue operations are ongoing as firefighters work to control the blaze. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and authorities are assessing the situation. Senior officials, including the district collector, visited the site to oversee relief operations. The hospital is cooperating with emergency responders, and further details are awaited. The incident has sparked fears of more casualties.

An electric BEST bus lost control on SG Barve Marg in Kurla, Mumbai, killing seven and injuring 42, including four policemen, on Monday night. The bus also damaged 22 vehicles. CCTV footage shows driver Sanjay More grabbing backpacks and jumping out of a window after the crash. He has been arrested for culpable homicide. Investigations revealed More had only 10 days of training to operate electric buses. BEST has now made breath analyser tests mandatory for drivers. Meetings with private operators supplying buses stressed better driver training. The tragic incident highlights the need for stricter safety measures and regulations.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that people who have not applied for the National Register of Citizens (NRC) will be denied Aadhaar cards. The state government has approved a new rule linking Aadhaar applications with NRC registration. Applicants must provide their NRC application number from 2015 for verification. If the applicant or their family did not apply for NRC, their Aadhaar request will be rejected. This decision aims to address concerns about illegal immigration from Bangladesh. The move will not apply to central government employees working outside Assam.

The Supreme Court has laid down eight factors for courts to consider when deciding alimony in divorce cases. These include the social and economic status of both parties, the wife's basic needs, and the couple’s standard of living. Other factors include income sources, employment status, and whether the wife left her job for the family. The financial status of the husband and legal expenses are also to be considered. This decision came during the divorce case of Praveen and Anju Jain, where the court ordered Rs 5 crore as alimony. The couple had been living apart for 20 years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the Kapoor family on December 11 to discuss the upcoming centenary celebrations of legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor. Modi described Raj Kapoor’s contributions to Indian cinema as monumental, symbolizing the "golden journey" of the industry. He encouraged the Kapoor family to create a film showcasing Raj Kapoor’s legacy for Central Asia, emphasizing its potential for Indian cinema. The family shared plans to restore 10 of Raj Kapoor's films, which will be showcased across 160 theaters in 40 cities in India, starting with a premiere on December 13 in Mumbai.

A study has revealed that cameras and drones in Corbett National Park, originally intended for wildlife monitoring, are being misused to surveil local women without their consent. Forest rangers have used drones to intimidate women, discouraging them from collecting natural resources. The study, conducted by the University of Cambridge, highlights the negative impact on women's behavior, causing them to act more quietly, increasing their risk of encounters with dangerous animals. Researchers warn that surveillance technologies are inadvertently reinforcing patriarchal control over women, while also compromising their safety and mental well-being.

India’s $9 billion development project on Great Nicobar Island has raised alarms among environmentalists and indigenous tribes. Spanning 166 sq km, the plan includes a transshipment harbour, power plant, and airport to boost trade. While the government claims it won’t displace tribes, experts warn it threatens vulnerable groups like the Shompen tribe, whose habitat will be disrupted. Environmental concerns focus on deforestation, habitat loss, and the impact on marine life, including giant leatherback sea turtles. The 30-year project poses risks of disease exposure and cultural erosion, leaving islanders and environmentalists deeply concerned about its long-term consequences.

India's economy expanded at 5.4% in Q2 2024-25, marking a seven-quarter low and falling short of the RBI's 7% projection. Inflation reached 6.2% in October, driven by rising food costs, with consumer demand and private investment remaining weak. Experts highlighted structural challenges, including a "vicious cycle" of low investment and consumption. Car sales dropped 14% in November, reflecting urban demand struggles. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman dismissed fears, attributing the decline to election-cycle spending cuts. Critics urged reforms to improve exports, job creation, and income growth. Despite challenges, the government remains optimistic about India's long-term growth prospects.

Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh made a powerful statement during his Indore concert, quoting Urdu poet Rahat Indori's famous line, “Kisi ke baap ka Hindustan thodi hai” (Hindustan isn’t anyone’s property). The Bajrang Dal had earlier protested the event, accusing him of supporting anti-national sentiments. They also demanded the cancellation of his concert. In response, organizers complied with restrictions, prohibiting alcohol and meat at the venue. The Indore police ensured law and order while addressing concerns of drug abuse and women's safety. Diljit dedicated his performance to Rahat Indori, emphasizing unity and shared sacrifices.

Kashmir's breathtaking beauty was enhanced by fresh snowfall, transforming Peer Ki Gali in Shopian and Tangmarg in Baramulla into picturesque winter landscapes. Light snow on Sunday blanketed roads, trees, and rooftops, creating postcard-perfect scenery. Tourists and locals enjoyed the charm despite challenges like slippery roads in Gulmarg. Peer Ki Gali, renowned for its scenic allure, drew visitors seeking shelter amid snow-draped views. Tangmarg’s serene roads added to the region’s magical appeal. This early winter wonder signals the arrival of Kashmir’s enchanting snow season, attracting tourists to the Valley’s natural splendor.