Controversial influencer Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan must forfeit over £2M after failing to pay taxes on £21M earned through online ventures, including OnlyFans. A UK judge ruled the brothers evaded taxes between 2014 and 2022, describing their scheme as a "straightforward cheat of the revenue." Devon and Cornwall Police seized £2.8M from frozen accounts linked to the brothers and an associate known as "J." The Tates are also facing criminal charges in Romania for trafficking and exploitation. Both deny all allegations and remain barred from leaving Romania, awaiting extradition to the UK for further legal proceedings.

The Congress demanded an apology from Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of disrespecting B.R. Ambedkar during a debate in the Rajya Sabha. Shah criticized opposition leaders for frequently invoking Ambedkar’s name, remarking it had "become a fashion." Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge alleged the BJP and RSS hold "hatred" for Ambedkar, linking them to historical opposition to the tricolor and Constitution. Former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi called Shah’s comments reflective of Manusmriti ideology. Jairam Ramesh and K.C. Venugopal also condemned Shah, accusing the BJP of mocking Ambedkar’s legacy while exploiting his name politically.

Russia detained a 29-year-old Uzbek man accused of assassinating Lt Gen Igor Kirillov, head of Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Protection Forces, and his assistant in Moscow. Kirillov, 54, was killed when an explosive device hidden in a scooter detonated near his residence. Russia's FSB claimed the suspect was recruited by Ukrainian intelligence, allegedly promised $100,000 and EU relocation for the attack. Ukraine called Kirillov a "legitimate target," citing alleged war crimes and 4,800 chemical weapon uses under his leadership. Russian officials plan to address the assassination at the UN Security Council meeting on Friday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused Congress of undermining BR Ambedkar’s legacy, calling the party’s actions a "rotten ecosystem" of insults towards the Constitution’s architect. Amid Congress’s demand for Home Minister Amit Shah’s resignation over his controversial remarks on Ambedkar, Modi highlighted Congress’s "sins," including denying Ambedkar a Bharat Ratna and orchestrating his electoral defeats. Modi contrasted Congress’s history with BJP’s initiatives empowering SC/ST communities. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge condemned Shah’s remarks, accusing him of insulting Ambedkar, and led protests in Parliament. Modi defended Shah, calling Congress’s outrage "theatrics" over their exposed record of ignoring Ambedkar's vision.

A groundbreaking study has revealed that nematodes, tiny roundworms thriving in Chernobyl’s high-radiation zone, may hold the key to DNA repair mechanisms. Despite the harsh environment, these worms exhibit no radiation-induced DNA damage. Researchers, led by Sophia Tintori of New York University, analyzed nematodes’ genomes from Chernobyl and other regions, discovering resilience and generational adaptations. Insights from this study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, could explain why some humans are more prone to cancer and lead to advancements in DNA repair technologies. The findings highlight nature’s incredible adaptability and its potential benefits for science.

Conor McGregor has announced preliminary agreements to face Logan Paul in an exhibition boxing match, potentially hosted in India. The Irish UFC star revealed talks with the Ambani family for the event. McGregor, who last fought in 2021, clarified false rumors about a bout with UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, emphasizing his focus on returning to the Octagon after the boxing match. Logan Paul, a YouTuber-turned-boxer, previously faced Floyd Mayweather in a similar exhibition. McGregor’s potential India debut could mark a unique collaboration between the combat sports world and Indian promoters, promising a high-profile international spectacle.

Ravichandran Ashwin, 38, announced his retirement after the Brisbane Test, telling captain Rohit Sharma, “If I’m not needed, I’m better off saying goodbye.” Ashwin’s illustrious career includes 537 Test wickets, 37 five-wicket hauls, and 11 Player of the Series awards. Rohit hailed Ashwin as a "true match-winner" and a "servant of Indian cricket," emphasizing his impact in crucial moments. Ashwin retires as the leading wicket-taker in the World Test Championship with 195 scalps. While stepping away from international cricket, Ashwin plans to continue showcasing his skills in club cricket.

Parliament witnessed protests on December 18, 2024, as Congress MPs demanded Union Home Minister Amit Shah's resignation over his remarks on Dr. BR Ambedkar. Shah, while responding to a Rajya Sabha debate, said it had become a "fashion" for Congress to repeatedly invoke Ambedkar's name, implying that doing so was unnecessary. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge accused Shah of insulting Ambedkar and sought an apology. In retaliation, BJP accused the opposition of exploiting the situation for political gain. Protests continued in Parliament, with Congress MPs raising slogans and holding Ambedkar's photos.

Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India's greatest cricketers, announced his retirement from international cricket on December 18, 2024. Ashwin, 38, ends his illustrious career with 765 wickets across formats, including 537 Test wickets in 106 matches. Known for his match-winning performances, Ashwin finishes with 37 five-wicket hauls and 11 Player of the Series awards, ranking among Test cricket’s finest spinners. He made his debut in 2010 and his final match will be the Adelaide Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Ashwin thanked the BCCI and his teammates, expressing pride in his journey.

India’s diverse culinary heritage shines on the global stage as three states feature in Taste Atlas' list of the world's best food regions. Punjab ranks 7th, Maharashtra 41st, and West Bengal 54th, with 'Southern India' also recognized at 59th. The rankings celebrate the distinct flavors and cultural significance of regional Indian cuisines, reflecting the country's vast gastronomic diversity. Each state is renowned for its unique dishes, from Punjab’s rich curries to West Bengal's sweets. The recognition underscores India's growing influence in global food culture and its place as a gastronomic powerhouse.