According to intelligence sources, terrorists, including JeM and LeT, employ Chinese weapons, bodysuit cameras, and communication devices in Jammu and Kashmir attacks. China's supply of weapons and drones to Pakistan is linked to recent terror strikes. Infiltrators use Chinese sniper guns, and encrypted communication devices for infiltration are traced back to China. China is suspected of aiming to divert Indian troops from Ladakh by escalating terrorism in Kashmir. Despite this, Indian security remains vigilant, countering attempts on both fronts. A recent attack in Poonch prompts plans to reinforce Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch-Rajouri sector with additional troops.

Thick fog blankets Delhi and the NCR, causing disruption in flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Visibility drops significantly, reaching 150m, prompting the diversion of five flights to Jaipur. The cold wave tightens its grip over northern India, with the minimum temperature in Delhi hitting 7 degrees Celsius. Very dense fog affects isolated areas in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and more. The Regional Meteorological Department forecasts partly cloudy skies and continued dense to very dense fog in the morning. Night shelters witness increased occupancy as residents seek refuge from the cold.

The Army initiates an inquiry, involving a Brigadier-level officer, into three civilian deaths in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir. The investigation, prompted by recent terrorist attacks on Army personnel, aims to address casualties and circumstances within the officer's responsibility. Following a deadly ambush on Army vehicles last week, aerial surveillance and ground combing operations intensify in the Dera Ki Gali and Bafliyaz forest belt. The People's Anti-Fascist Front, linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, claims responsibility for the attack. Amid allegations of custodial torture, the Army takes disciplinary actions and adjusts officer postings. Army Chief General Manoj Pande emphasizes professional conduct during operations.

A 24-year-old woman engineer named Nandhini in Tamil Nadu, Chennai was burnt alive by her former classmate, Vetrimaran (formerly Pandi Maheswari), who underwent a sex change to marry her. The tragic event unfolded as a birthday surprise turned into a nightmare. Nandhini was Blindfolded, chained and slashed with blade before she was killed. Police are investigating the dark turn in their relationship, suspecting Vetrimaran's jealousy as a motive. The victim, Nandhini, was rushed to the Hospital where she died, while Vetrimaran faces murder charges and is in judicial custody. The incident has left the community stunned.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a Christmas programme at his residence, lauds Jesus Christ's message of kindness and service, describing them as guiding lights for India's development. PM Modi values his longstanding relations with the Christian community, recognizing their dedication to serving the poor. He reminisces about meeting the Pope, emphasizing discussions on global issues for a better world. The Prime Minister acknowledges the Christian community's significant role in India's freedom struggle and expresses pride in their ongoing contributions to the country's welfare. The Christmas event reflects PM Modi's appreciation for shared values and collective progress.

Amit Chakravarty, HR head of NewsClick, seeks government witness status in the anti-terror case, claiming vital information. Arrested in October over pro-China funding allegations, Chakravarty filed for pardon, citing material knowledge. Delhi Police arrested NewsClick founder Prabir Purkayastha and Chakravarty in October, investigating UAPA violations. The portal faces scrutiny for alleged funds from China. Delhi Police allege a larger conspiracy involving foreign funds from China. NewsClick denies all charges, asserting its independence. The case unfolds as Chakravarty's plea goes before a magisterial court, adding complexity to the ongoing probe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extends warm Christmas wishes, saying, "Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas! May this festive season bring joy, peace, and prosperity to all." He encourages celebrating the spirit of Christmas, emphasizing harmony and compassion, and recalls the teachings of Lord Christ. Midnight mass prayers at Delhi's Sacred Heart Cathedral Catholic Church and Bengaluru's St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral marked the festive eve. Christmas, observed globally on December 25, unites billions in religious and cultural celebrations, resonating with carol singing, dazzling lights, and the joyous spirit of the season.

Dense fog wreaked havoc on flight operations in Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, causing delays and disruptions. The India Meteorological Department predicts very dense fog across the country till January 2. In Delhi, eight flights heading to Indira Gandhi International Airport were diverted due to zero visibility. The Delhi airport issued an advisory, notifying passengers of potential impacts on non-CAT III compliant flights. The CAT III instrument, an anti-fog landing system, is crucial in poor visibility conditions. Airlines, including IndiGo and SpiceJet, informed passengers about low visibility, urging them to check for updated flight information.            

Former J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti was house arrested, preventing her visit to Surankote following the deaths of three civilians in Poonch. Security forces had questioned eight individuals in connection with a militant ambush, resulting in four soldiers' deaths. Mufti, expressing concern on social media, highlighted the grim "ground reality" in the region, accusing the government of neglecting the true situation. The incident underscores tensions in J&K, with Mufti urging awareness and questioning how long the facade of normalcy can be maintained amid perilous circumstances.            

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes to the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 99th birth anniversary. Visiting the 'Sadaiv Atal' memorial with President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi acknowledged Vajpayee's enduring commitment to nation-building. In a tweeted video, Modi praised Vajpayee's unique humor, describing how he could defuse tense moments with a well-timed joke. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a pivotal figure in Indian politics, led the BJP to power and served as Prime Minister for a total of six years. His birth anniversary serves as a reminder of his profound impact on the nation's political landscape.