India's economy expanded at 5.4% in Q2 2024-25, marking a seven-quarter low and falling short of the RBI's 7% projection. Inflation reached 6.2% in October, driven by rising food costs, with consumer demand and private investment remaining weak. Experts highlighted structural challenges, including a "vicious cycle" of low investment and consumption. Car sales dropped 14% in November, reflecting urban demand struggles. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman dismissed fears, attributing the decline to election-cycle spending cuts. Critics urged reforms to improve exports, job creation, and income growth. Despite challenges, the government remains optimistic about India's long-term growth prospects.

Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh made a powerful statement during his Indore concert, quoting Urdu poet Rahat Indori's famous line, “Kisi ke baap ka Hindustan thodi hai” (Hindustan isn’t anyone’s property). The Bajrang Dal had earlier protested the event, accusing him of supporting anti-national sentiments. They also demanded the cancellation of his concert. In response, organizers complied with restrictions, prohibiting alcohol and meat at the venue. The Indore police ensured law and order while addressing concerns of drug abuse and women's safety. Diljit dedicated his performance to Rahat Indori, emphasizing unity and shared sacrifices.

Bangladesh has confirmed 88 cases of violence against minorities, primarily targeting Hindus, since August, with 70 arrests reported. Interim government official Shafiqul Alam revealed the data, noting incidents in regions like Sunamganj and Gazipur. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, during his Dhaka visit, highlighted concerns over the safety of minorities, urging stronger protections. Nationwide protests erupted in India on Human Rights Day, demanding international intervention. ISKCON criticized global inaction, citing threats against Hindus and temples in Bangladesh. The Bangladeshi government promised investigations and measures to ensure minority rights and harmony amidst rising tensions.

Kashmir's breathtaking beauty was enhanced by fresh snowfall, transforming Peer Ki Gali in Shopian and Tangmarg in Baramulla into picturesque winter landscapes. Light snow on Sunday blanketed roads, trees, and rooftops, creating postcard-perfect scenery. Tourists and locals enjoyed the charm despite challenges like slippery roads in Gulmarg. Peer Ki Gali, renowned for its scenic allure, drew visitors seeking shelter amid snow-draped views. Tangmarg’s serene roads added to the region’s magical appeal. This early winter wonder signals the arrival of Kashmir’s enchanting snow season, attracting tourists to the Valley’s natural splendor.

The Israeli military launched 350 airstrikes across Syria in 48 hours, targeting key military sites, including al Bayda and Latakia naval ports, anti-aircraft batteries, airfields, and weapons production facilities in Damascus, Homs, Tartus, Latakia, and Palmyra. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the strikes aim to prevent weapons from reaching jihadists while ensuring Israel's security. Footage shared by the Israel Defence Forces showed intense bombings at Syrian naval ports. Security sources and Sky News reported strikes in Qamishli. Netanyahu emphasized no interference in Syria’s internal affairs but reiterated Israel’s commitment to safeguarding its security.

The tomb of ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's father, Hafez Assad, was torched by rebels in Qardaha, Latakia. The mausoleum, central to Assad’s Alawite heartland, was set ablaze during Syria's ongoing upheaval. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the attack, with AFP footage showing significant damage. Hafez's elaborate tomb, along with family members’ graves, including Bashar’s brother Bassel, was destroyed. This follows a rapid rebel advance that seized Damascus, ousting Bashar Assad and ending over 50 years of Assad family rule. The incident marks a symbolic blow to Assad’s legacy amid Syria's ongoing conflict.

Thailand will launch its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for Indian travellers on January 1, 2025, streamlining visa processes. The 60-day visa exemption for Indian passport holders for tourism and short business purposes remains effective until further notice. Non-Thai nationals must apply via thaievisa.go.th, with applications processed in 14 working days. Offline payment methods are available, though fees are non-refundable. The ETA enables single-entry stays of up to 60 days, extendable by 30 days. Travellers can also access automated immigration gates for quicker processing using ETA QR codes, enhancing convenience and security.

Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash, 34, died by suicide, leaving a 24-page note alleging harassment by his estranged wife, Nikita Singhania, her family, and a Uttar Pradesh judge. His brother, Bikas Kumar, filed an FIR against Nikita, her mother, brother, and uncle, accusing them of abetment to suicide. The note detailed nine cases filed against Atul, including dowry and domestic violence allegations, and claimed extortion demands of ₹3 crore. Atul also accused a family court judge of corruption. His family has demanded justice, stating his ashes will not be immersed until it is served. Police have begun an investigation.

Bangladesh's interim government head, Prof. Muhammad Yunus, urged European nations to relocate visa centers for Bangladeshi nationals from New Delhi to Dhaka or nearby countries. Yunus cited India's visa restrictions as causing uncertainties for Bangladeshi students and travelers. He highlighted Bulgaria's decision to move its visa center for Bangladeshis to Indonesia and Vietnam as a precedent. This appeal, made during a meeting with over 19 diplomats in Dhaka, comes amid escalating India-Bangladesh diplomatic tensions. Meanwhile, in Delhi, protests outside the Bangladesh High Commission over alleged targeting of minorities prompted heightened security, traffic disruptions, and rerouted vehicles.

Six asteroids are set to pass close to Earth tonight, with the most concerning, 2007 XB23, skimming by at 0.00298 AU—less than 4,50,000 km away. This asteroid, measuring 10-23 meters, will travel within the Moon's orbit. Others, like 2024 XL11 and 2024 XK1, will approach at distances of 1.18 million km and 1.87 million km, respectively. NASA confirms no immediate collision threats, but the event highlights the critical need for advanced asteroid tracking systems. These flybys provide astronomers with invaluable opportunities to study near-Earth objects (NEOs) and their unpredictable behaviors.