A video of an Indian man helping a homeless couple in the United States has gone viral on social media. The clip shows him offering bottles of water to the couple on New Year’s Day. He later returns with food from a fast-food outlet. The video was shared on Instagram and received wide praise. In the caption, the man said he was moved after seeing they had no water. He called himself blessed to help. Many users praised his kindness and humility. Several Indian viewers said they felt proud. The video has crossed three lakh views and continues to get warm reactions online.

India on Saturday announced its squad for the ODI series against New Zealand. Shubman Gill will lead the team, with Shreyas Iyer named vice-captain. Iyer’s return is subject to fitness clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence. Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is also back in the squad. Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma and Dhruv Jurel were dropped. Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah remain unavailable due to fitness and workload management. The three-match series begins on January 11 in Vadodara. (PC: PTI)

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were captured during a US military raid, CNN reported. The operation took place overnight at a guarded military base near Caracas. Loud explosions were heard across the city as US forces carried out the strike. US President Donald Trump later confirmed the capture on social media. He also shared a photo showing Maduro blindfolded and handcuffed in US custody. The couple were flown out of Venezuela to face charges in the United States. Venezuela accused Washington of an imperialist attack. Regional tensions remain high.

India on Saturday issued a travel advisory for its citizens after a US military operation in Venezuela. The Ministry of External Affairs asked Indians to avoid all non-essential travel to the country. It said the decision was taken due to recent developments and rising security concerns. Indians already in Venezuela were advised to stay alert and limit their movement. The MEA also urged them to remain in touch with the Indian Embassy in Caracas. Emergency contact details were shared for help and assistance. The advisory asked citizens to follow local updates and avoid risky areas until the situation becomes stable. (PC: AP)

Early on January 3, 2026, at least seven powerful explosions were heard across Caracas, Venezuela’s capital, around 2 a.m. local time, accompanied by reports of low-flying aircraft overhead. Videos on social media showed smoke plumes and flashes, while parts of the city experienced power outages and residents rushed into the streets amid fear and confusion. The cause of the blasts has not been officially confirmed, but the incident unfolds amid heightened tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with U.S. military activity in the region linked to counter-drug operations. Venezuelan authorities have not detailed responsibility, leaving speculation and global concern to grow. 

Aloka, a former Indian stray now known as the “Peace Dog,” is capturing attention nationwide as he accompanies Buddhist monks on their 2,300‑mile Walk for Peace across the United States. The calm, confident dog often walks beside the monks, sometimes dressed in colorful outfits, embodying loyalty, mindfulness, and compassion as the group promotes unity and peace. Estimated to be about four years old, Aloka’s presence has made him a social media favorite and a symbol of the journey’s spirit. The walk, drawing crowds and online support, reflects a mission of kindness and shared humanity.

The Supreme Court of India will pronounce its verdict on January 5, 2026 on the bail pleas of activists Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam and five others accused in the 2020 Delhi riots “larger conspiracy” case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and N V Anjaria reserved its judgment on December 10 after detailed arguments by the prosecution and defence, challenging a September 2 Delhi High Court order denying bail. The accused were alleged to be “masterminds” behind riots linked to protests against the CAA‑NRC, which left 53 dead and 700+ injured. (PC: India Today)

Iranians, especially youth and shopkeepers, are staging the largest protests in years, driven by an economic crisis marked by a collapsing currency, rising inflation and deteriorating living conditions. Originally sparked by economic grievances, demonstrations have spread to more than 30 cities and evolved into calls for systemic political change and the end of the clerical regime. Protesters chant anti-government slogans and express a belief there is “no future” under current leadership, urging decisive action now. Authorities have responded with a mix of dialogue offers and security deployments, while at least 10 protestors have been killed. (PC: Instagram)

World leaders responded sharply to U.S. strikes on Venezuela on January 3, 2026, which included claims the U.S. captured President Nicolás Maduro. Russia condemned the action as “armed aggression,” urging dialogue and adherence to peace in Latin America. Mexico and Uruguay denounced the strikes as violations of international law, while Britain stressed upholding legal norms. Colombia and Chile expressed deep concern and called for peaceful solutions. Spain offered to mediate, and the EU urged restraint. Conversely, Argentina’s president celebrated the offensive. Many nations highlighted the need to respect sovereignty and prevent further escalation amid rising regional tensions. (PC: X)

India have named their 15-man squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting January 11, 2026, with Shubman Gill returning as captain. Veteran stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are included, while Shreyas Iyer is vice-captain subject to fitness clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence. Rishabh Pant keeps his place as wicketkeeper-batter and Mohammed Siraj returns to the ODI setup. Hardik Pandya is rested due to workload management ahead of the T20 World Cup, and Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are not selected. Venues are Vadodara, Rajkot and Indore. (PC: NDTV)