India captain Rohit Sharma defended the decision to drop Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the first Test against Australia, emphasizing the strategic choice to field Washington Sundar. Sharma called Sundar a "solid all-rounder" capable of excelling globally, urging him to avoid injuries. Sundar showcased consistency and resilience, building a vital partnership with Virat Kohli. While acknowledging Ashwin and Jadeja's immense contributions, Rohit assured they will play key roles in the ongoing series. He also praised debutants Rana and Reddy for their impressive performance and combative attitude, underlining their importance for India’s long-term success.

The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has maintained the key repo rate at 6.5%, prioritizing inflation control. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das announced the decision, backed by a 4-2 majority, emphasizing a neutral stance to ensure inflation aligns with the target. The standing deposit facility (SDF) remains at 6.25%, while the marginal standing facility (MSF) and bank rate stand at 6.75%. The cash reserve ratio (CRR) remains at 4.5%, mandating banks to hold reserves with the RBI. Das reiterated the MPC’s commitment to tackling inflation sustainably for long-term economic stability.

Scientists predict the Arctic may experience its first ice-free day by 2027, with sea ice reduced to below 1 million sq km, according to a study in Nature Communications. Arctic ice is melting at an alarming rate of over 12% per decade, exacerbated by climate change. Researchers from Colorado University and the University of Gothenburg warn that such events could accelerate global warming and disrupt ecosystems, including polar bears. While projections estimate ice-free conditions lasting up to 71 days, drastic carbon emission cuts could delay this phenomenon. Experts emphasize urgent climate action to mitigate devastating consequences.

A 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off northern California’s coast near Ferndale, causing minor damages but no major casualties. Initially, a tsunami warning was issued for northern California and southern Oregon, affecting 4.7 million people, but it was later cancelled. Over 10,000 residents in Humboldt County experienced power outages, and minor structural damages were reported. Eyewitnesses described intense shaking and aftershocks. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency to coordinate the response. The US Geological Survey reported this as the ninth 7.0 magnitude quake globally this year, highlighting the region's vulnerability to tectonic activity.  

Over 100 Punjab farmers will march towards Delhi today, demanding legal MSP guarantees, debt waivers, pensions, and compensation for past protest victims. Security at the Shambhu border on NH-44 has been significantly increased, with Haryana and Punjab police on high alert. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 are in place in Ambala and Jind to prevent large gatherings. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) will lead the march, starting around 1 PM. Previous farmer protests have caused major disruptions at Delhi's borders, with traffic snarls and clashes reported. Authorities have urged for peaceful demonstrations while ensuring public convenience.

India takes on Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Adelaide Oval, starting December 6. India, buoyed by a 295-run victory in Perth, aims to extend their lead in the series. Skipper Rohit Sharma returns to the lineup, with Shubman Gill bolstering the XI. India seeks revenge for their infamous 36 all-out at Adelaide in 2020. The pink-ball Test brings unique challenges, demanding caution and precision. Action begins at 9:30 AM IST, live on Star Sports and Disney+ Hotstar.

Eknath Shinde took oath as Maharashtra's deputy chief minister alongside Ajit Pawar in Devendra Fadnavis' cabinet. Shinde promised to cooperate fully with Fadnavis, stating they would work as a team for the state’s progress. After serving as CM from 2022 to 2024, Shinde agreed to serve as deputy CM following a brief period of uncertainty. He played on the CM and DCM acronyms, emphasizing his dedication to the common people. Fadnavis, who took office as CM for the third time, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to ensure good governance and fulfill people’s aspirations.

Bangladesh’s central bank announced plans to remove the image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the nation’s founding father, from banknotes. The new notes will not feature Rahman’s portrait on the 20, 100, 500, and 1,000 Taka bills. Instead, the redesigned notes will showcase religious landmarks, Bengali traditions, and graffiti from the July uprising. The changes are expected to be implemented within six months. The decision follows protests where statues and portraits of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman were vandalized. The redesign will be phased, starting with the four most common banknotes.

Syrian rebels have captured the major city of Hama after fierce fighting and a military withdrawal. The Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) declared victory, releasing prisoners from a local jail. The military pulled out to avoid urban combat and protect civilians. This follows the rebels' capture of Aleppo last week. Since the start of the offensive, over 720 people, including 111 civilians, have died. The UN warned of Syria's deepening crisis. Russian and Iranian forces have intensified their support for President Assad, while Turkey urges a political solution to end the conflict.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has called for a balanced approach to trade with China. Speaking at an Assocham event, he highlighted India’s need to avoid over-reliance on Chinese supply chains and safeguard domestic industries like MSMEs. While recent talks on border disputes have eased tensions slightly, Jaishankar stressed the importance of addressing unresolved issues along the Line of Actual Control. He urged businesses to consider long-term impacts when trading with China. Jaishankar also discussed strengthening ties with Russia for better access to its economy and preparing for deeper collaboration with the incoming Trump administration in the US.