A Mumbai infant has tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), intensifying health alerts across India. HMPV, a respiratory virus, affects people of all ages, with children and the elderly being the most vulnerable. The virus typically spreads during winter and early spring, causing cold-like symptoms, but severe cases may lead to respiratory complications. States have urged residents to follow preventive measures, including wearing masks and maintaining hygiene. Health experts recommend monitoring symptoms like fever, cough, and breathing difficulties in vulnerable groups. Authorities are closely tracking cases and enhancing public awareness to mitigate the risk of a larger outbreak.

A massive wildfire ravaged Los Angeles' upscale Pacific Palisades, forcing 30,000 residents to evacuate. The fire, fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds and dry vegetation, scorched over 1,262 acres, destroying homes and threatening 10,000 residences. Firefighters used ocean water to battle the flames, which engulfed palm trees and vehicles. Governor Gavin Newsom warned of worsening conditions, with wind gusts expected to reach 100 mph in some areas. Hollywood celebrities, including James Woods, were among evacuees. Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley confirmed no injuries but stressed extreme fire weather remains a major challenge. Evacuation efforts and fire containment continue.

Following India’s 1-3 Border Gavaskar Trophy defeat against Australia, the BCCI announced a review of the team’s performance. Despite scrutiny of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for their poor performances, both will remain in contention for the Champions Trophy and England Test series. Head coach Gautam Gambhir, whose role faced criticism, will also retain his position. Kohli scored a century in the first Test but faltered later, while Rohit managed only 31 runs in 3 matches. Gambhir defended the players, citing their passion for Indian cricket. India will next face England in white-ball games and a five-match Test series.

Rescue operations in Assam’s Dima Hasao coal mine continue as one body was recovered, while eight workers remain trapped. Flooding engulfed the illegal mine on Monday, prompting efforts by the Army, Navy, NDRF, and SDRF. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed the recovery, expressing condolences to the victim’s family. Specialized de-watering pumps from SDRF and ONGC were deployed, with an MI-17 helicopter on standby. Authorities arrested one individual linked to the mine, deemed illegal, under relevant mining and criminal laws. Rescue operations remain ongoing, with divers and heavy equipment mobilized to locate the remaining trapped workers.

US President-elect Donald Trump unveiled bold expansionist plans, including annexing Canada as the 51st state and renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." Speaking at Mar-a-Lago, Trump promised to use "economic force" for Canada’s integration while refusing to rule out military action for control of the Panama Canal and Greenland. He criticized NATO allies for inadequate defense spending, urging a hike to 5% of GDP. Trump's proposals faced backlash, with Canadian and Panamanian officials rejecting his remarks. Denmark also rebuffed Trump's Greenland ambitions, calling it “not for sale.” Critics condemned the agenda as provocative and unrealistic.

The UK faces extreme weather as heavy rain, snow, and rapid snowmelt trigger severe floods and icy conditions. Major incidents were declared in Leicestershire and Lincolnshire after the River Soar flooded, prompting evacuations at caravan parks. Over 130 flood warnings and 200 alerts are in place across England, with significant disruption to transport. Rescuers evacuated 59 people and 45 schoolchildren, while a man's body was found in North Yorkshire flooding. Snow warnings extend across Scotland, Northern Ireland, and southern England, with accumulations up to 10 cm forecast. Authorities urge caution and adherence to safety advisories amid worsening conditions.

Anita Anand, Canada's Minister of Transport and a senior member of the Liberal Party, is a leading candidate to replace Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister. If selected, she would be the first woman of colour and Canadian of Indian origin to hold the position. Born in Nova Scotia to Indian immigrants, Anand has a distinguished academic and political career, serving as Minister of Defence and Public Services during her tenure. Known for her contributions to military reform, pandemic response, and transport infrastructure, Anand embodies inclusivity and gender equality, marking a potential milestone in Canadian politics.

Dr V Narayanan, a Distinguished Scientist and Director of ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), will become the ISRO Chairman on January 14, succeeding S Somnath. With nearly 4 decades of experience, Dr Narayanan has been instrumental in developing India's space propulsion systems. He led the C25 Cryogenic Project for GSLV Mk III and contributed to Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and Aditya-L1 missions. Under his leadership, LPSC delivered 183 propulsion systems for ISRO missions. His accolades include the IIT Kharagpur Silver Medal and ASI Gold Medal, highlighting his remarkable contributions to India's space program.

Greenland's capital, Nuuk, now hosts a new international airport with a 2,200-meter runway, enabling larger aircraft to land. This development is expected to enhance tourism and economic growth, with each flight contributing approximately $200,000 to Greenland's economy. United Airlines will commence nonstop seasonal flights from the US in June, significantly reducing travel time. The airport will also serve as a hub for Air Greenland's Airbus A330neo flights to Denmark and Iceland. By 2026, two additional airports will open in Ilulissat and Qaqortoq. With limited paved roads, the new facilities will revolutionize travel to and within Greenland.

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin has announced a $1M prize to anyone deciphering the Indus Valley script, which has puzzled scholars for over a century. Speaking at an international conference commemorating the 1924 discovery of the Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC), Stalin emphasized the Dravidian roots of the civilisation, citing evidence such as bull symbols and urban culture. He also announced a ₹2 crore grant to establish a research chair honoring Iravatham Mahadevan for further studies. Annual awards for Tamil cultural scholars were also introduced. Stalin urged global collaboration to solve the riddle and uncover the mystery of the script.