The One Nation, One Election Bill proposes holding Lok Sabha and state assembly polls together but delays implementation until 2034. Approved by the Union Cabinet, the bill seeks to amend Articles 83, 172, and 327 of the Constitution to align assembly terms with the Lok Sabha. Elections after 2029 will synchronize terms, with mid-term polls filling unexpired terms if assemblies dissolve early. The bill also includes changes for Union Territories like Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir. Based on recommendations by the Kovind Committee, the proposal will be presented in the Lok Sabha on Monday for discussion and approval.

Sunil Gavaskar criticized Australian cricketers and fans for targeting Mohammed Siraj after his altercation with Travis Head in the Adelaide Test. Siraj faced boos from Australian crowds during his bowling spells in both Adelaide and Brisbane. Gavaskar, in his Sydney Morning Herald column, called out Australia’s "double standards," claiming they would cheer if their player displayed similar aggression. Siraj's animated send-off to Head, who scored a century, incited the backlash. Gavaskar also noted the reduced animosity due to the Indian Premier League. The ICC penalized both players, with Siraj losing 20% of his match fee.

Raj Kapoor, often called the "greatest showman of Indian cinema," continues to captivate hearts as the nation marks his 100th birth anniversary. A pioneer of Indian cinema, Kapoor gave us unforgettable films like Awaara, Shree 420, and Mera Naam Joker. His movies blended romance, soul, and social commentary, reflecting the dreams of a young, independent India. His film Awaara was a sensation in the Soviet Union, earning him a global fan base and making him a cultural ambassador for Indian cinema. Songs like Awaara Hoon became anthems overseas. From his iconic tramp persona to timeless songs like Mera Joota Hai Japani, Kapoor’s work remains relevant today. To honor his legacy, a retrospective of his classics is being screened in 40 cities, reminding fans of his unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema.

Day 1 of the 3rd Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test at Brisbane's Gabba was disrupted by rain, allowing only 13.2 overs of play. India’s decision to bowl first saw Usman Khawaja (19*) and Nathan McSweeney (4*) remaining unbeaten overnight. Weather forecasts suggest rain early on Day 2, potentially delaying the start, though significant play is expected later under cloudy skies. India made changes with Ravindra Jadeja and Akash Deep replacing R Ashwin and Harshit Rana. The high-stakes match comes as the series is tied 1-1, with India winning in Perth and Australia bouncing back in Adelaide. Fans hope rain won’t spoil the decider.

Australia is probing a major biosecurity breach after 323 virus samples, including Hendra, Lyssavirus, and Hantavirus, went missing from Queensland's public health lab. The samples disappeared in August 2023, prompting Queensland Health to investigate. While experts raised concerns about public safety, officials assured no immediate risk, citing the rapid degradation of these viruses outside low-temperature environments. Health Minister Timothy Nicholls vowed to enhance security and examine lab policies. Experts warned of the potential dangers, with some viruses carrying fatality rates as high as 15%. Authorities aim to prevent future lapses through robust measures and thorough investigations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused Congress of undermining India’s Constitution in a sharp Lok Sabha attack. Modi alleged Congress altered the Constitution 75 times, prioritizing power over democracy. "Congress tasted blood for power, wounding the Constitution’s soul," he said, labeling the 1975 Emergency a permanent "taint." Modi criticized Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi for exploiting constitutional amendments and suppressing citizens’ rights. He accused Congress of sowing discord while the Constitution upheld unity. Modi highlighted his government’s contributions, like Swachh Bharat toilets, contrasting them with Congress’s "Garibi Hatao" slogan. The speech sparked strong opposition from Congress MPs.

President-elect Donald Trump vowed to cut business ties and impose tariffs on countries refusing to accept deported migrants. In a Time magazine interview after being named 2024 "Person of the Year," Trump reiterated his focus on strict immigration policies, including using the National Guard for deportations. Emphasizing legal immigration, he warned against accepting prisoners or individuals from mental institutions. Trump pledged to deport families together and avoid prolonged detentions. "We'll do whatever it takes within the law," he stated, adding that non-compliant nations would face severe tariffs. The announcement underscores Trump’s commitment to border security during his presidency.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized Congress in the Lok Sabha, recalling the 1975 Emergency as a period when "constitutional rights were snatched" and "India was turned into a jail." He accused the Gandhi family of damaging the Constitution with "wrong policies and deeds." Hailing India’s democratic legacy, Modi referred to the nation as the "Mother of Democracy," emphasizing its ancient republican traditions. He praised the Constitution makers for respecting India’s heritage and noted that women-led development has flourished since women were granted voting rights. Modi’s speech marked 75 years of the Constitution's adoption, celebrating its enduring significance.

UK immigration has declined due to tighter student visa regulations, with non-EU nationals comprising 86% of migrants. Changes introduced in January 2024, including restrictions on dependent visas and work visa switches, have impacted Indian student numbers. Indian student visa issuance dropped 19% year-on-year, while dependent visas fell 69%. The University and College Admissions Service (UCAS) reported a 3% drop in enrolments and a 32.55% decrease in CAS issuance for Indian students. As a result, UK universities face a shift in international student trends, especially among students from India, a major source of student visa applicants.

D Gukesh, the youngest-ever world chess champion at 18, revealed how Magnus Carlsen's 2013 World Championship victory over Viswanathan Anand inspired him as a child. Gukesh, who was seven at the time, expressed his desire to reclaim the title for India, a dream he pursued for over a decade. Speaking after his victory over Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship, Gukesh said, "Doing this for myself, my country, there is probably nothing better than this." Gukesh is the second Indian Grandmaster to win the title after Anand, who held the crown from 2007 to 2013.