On the second day of the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, over 1.38 crore devotees took part in the sacred ‘Amrit Snan’ in the bone-chilling waters of Prayagraj’s Sangam. Despite temperatures expected to dip to 8°C, devotees braved the cold. Authorities set up night shelters and bonfires for their comfort. The event, marking Makar Sankranti, was accompanied by captivating performances by Naga Sadhus wielding traditional weapons. The Maha Kumbh, occurring once every 12 years, holds exceptional significance this year due to unique celestial alignments. The Uttar Pradesh government anticipates 35 crore attendees throughout the festival.

Ukraine launched a major combined drone and missile attack on Russian regions overnight, targeting key industrial sites. Russian officials reported damage to at least two factories and school closures in the southern city of Saratov. Over 200 Ukrainian drones and five U.S.-made ATACMS missiles were reportedly downed by Russia. The Bryansk region governor confirmed a missile attack but did not specify which missiles were used. The strike caused flight restrictions in several Russian cities, including Kazan and Penza. The Russian defense ministry has yet to comment on the attack's scale or specifics.

Los Angeles is bracing for hurricane-force winds as wildfires continue to devastate the region, claiming at least 24 lives and destroying hundreds of homes. Four of the six wildfires have burned over 160 square kilometers, larger than San Francisco, with the Palisades and Eaton fires being among the most destructive in California's history. Authorities warn that winds gusting up to 70 mph could intensify fire behavior and cause new blazes. Over 92,000 residents are under evacuation orders, while thousands of first responders battle the flames. Governor Gavin Newsom has requested $2.5 billion for recovery efforts.

Five coaches of a Puducherry-bound MEMU train derailed near Tamil Nadu's Villupuram railway station on Tuesday morning. Swift action by the loco pilot, who stopped the train immediately, averted a major accident. All passengers were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported. Railway staff and engineers began repair work while the Villupuram Railway Police launched an inquiry. The train derailed while crossing a curve shortly after departing at 5:25 am. Restoration efforts are underway to clear the route for other trains. Last week, a similar derailment in Andhra Pradesh disrupted train schedules, underscoring safety concerns in the region.

In his final foreign policy speech, US President Joe Biden announced progress toward a Gaza ceasefire, including a hostage release and increased aid for Palestinians. "So many innocent people have been killed. Palestinian people deserve peace," Biden emphasized. While talks in Doha continue, up to 33 hostages could be freed. Biden also highlighted America's strengthened alliances and claimed adversaries like Iran were "weaker" after 2024 attacks. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump expressed optimism about the ceasefire deal, stating it must happen soon. Biden’s farewell speech is scheduled for Wednesday before leaving office.

Around 300 North Korean soldiers have been killed, and 2,700 wounded while fighting for Russia in Ukraine, according to South Korea's spy agency. The soldiers, part of North Korea's elite Storm Corps, were sent to aid Moscow's efforts in return for technical assistance for Pyongyang's weapons programs. The high casualties reflect their lack of modern warfare understanding. Some soldiers were ordered to commit suicide to avoid capture, with one attempting to detonate a grenade before being shot. Ukraine has captured two North Korean soldiers, offering a potential exchange for captured Ukrainian troops.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has implemented strict measures following India's 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. To restore discipline, BCCI has restricted wives and girlfriends from accompanying players for more than 14 days on tours exceeding 45 days. Players must now use the team bus and cover extra luggage charges if exceeding 150 kg. Head Coach Gautam Gambhir’s personal manager is barred from the team bus and VIP box. These actions aim to improve team focus ahead of the Champions Trophy in six weeks. The review follows dressing room controversies and poor performances.

Outgoing US Ambassador Eric Garcetti highlighted the significance of the Indian diaspora amid H-1B visa debates, calling the 4 million-strong community a "secret weapon" in strengthening India-US ties. Speaking at his farewell lecture in New Delhi, Garcetti emphasized enhancing economic and educational exchanges for mutual growth. He noted India is now the top sender of international students to the US, with over 5 million Indians holding US visas. Addressing visa reforms, he lauded steps to reduce wait times and boost consular staff. Garcetti also praised US efforts in returning 578 cultural artifacts to India, fostering deeper cultural connections.

Los Angeles braces for stronger winds as wildfires, including the 23,000-acre Palisades Fire, burn uncontrollably. The Eaton Fire has destroyed 14,000 acres, with containment efforts hindered by 70 mph winds expected Tuesday. At least 24 are dead, 23 missing, and nine arrested for looting. Lawsuits allege negligence by Southern California Edison and LADWP over fire and water supply failures. Mayor Karen Bass has initiated emergency measures, while President Biden pledged federal support. National Guard troops patrol evacuation zones. Volunteers, including actor Will Arnett, provide aid, with 500 daily meals distributed to victims. Affected families fear rebuilding amid uncertain safety.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the ₹2,700-crore Z-Morh tunnel in Sonamarg, J&K, making the region accessible year-round. The 6.5-km bi-directional tunnel enhances connectivity and boosts tourism. PM Modi praised workers for their dedication and highlighted progress on connectivity projects, including the upcoming Zojila tunnel. While lauding the peaceful transition in J&K, he refrained from specifying a timeline for Statehood restoration. J&K CM Omar Abdullah urged fulfillment of the Statehood promise, emphasizing democratic progress. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced plans to reduce travel time from Delhi to Srinagar to eight hours. The project marks a new era for the region.