INDIAN RESCUE EFFORTS IN NEPAL
Nepal seeks better BRI terms as ruling party MPs visit China
Nepal is dispatching a group of MPs to China to negotiate potential advantages from the Belt and Road Initiative. Prime Minister Balen Shah emphasized negotiating with assurance and encouraged the MPs to meticulously examine how Nepal can benefit from Chinese projects. The talks are anticipated to cover concerns regarding financing and implementation, as the government remains vigilant about risks associated with BRI involvement.
In 1983, Indiana's West Baden Springs Hotel was left vacant and decaying; a medical-device company helped fund its $35 million rescue, and it reopened as a hotel in 2007
Once a beacon of luxury, West Baden Springs Hotel succumbed to neglect post-1932 closure. In 1996, its revival began when the Historic Landmarks Foundation acquired the site, collaborating with the Cook Group on restoration efforts. By May 2007, the hotel welcomed guests again after nearly 75 years, showcasing successful heritage preservation and community involvement that secures the site's lasting legacy.
Indian Railways approves weekly train service connecting Nepal's Janakpur Dham with Ayodhya
Indian Railways has approved a new weekly train service connecting Janakpur Dham and Ayodhya, enhancing cross-border travel. The service will operate once a week, facilitating pilgrimages and tourism associated with the Ramayana tradition. It covers approximately 604 kilometres and will include stops at significant towns in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Officials from both India and Nepal are coordinating on customs and passenger security measures for this service.
Tanker crashes into docked cruise ship in New Orleans, 180 rescued from Mississippi River
Atlantic Asphalt tanker crash into the American Heritage river cruiser on the Mississippi River in New Orleans triggered a major rescue operation after the passenger vessel was struck, began taking on water and overturned. All 180 people aboard were accounted for, while 32 were taken to hospital. Investigators are examining a possible steering failure behind the collision.
Big polluters may muddy the waters again at COP
The report by Kick the Big Polluters Out, a global coalition of more than 450 environmental and civil society organisations, said representatives of major fossil fuel companies, Big Tech, industrial agriculture and food industries have accessed the climate talks through various routes.
Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana beats Dhurandhar and Baahubali 2's record, becomes third-fastest Indian movie to cross Rs 1,000 crore
Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana has crossed Rs 1,000 crore worldwide within eight days, becoming the 11th Indian film to achieve the milestone and the third-fastest to do so. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the mythological epic has also made history in the UK and Ireland, becoming the first Indian film to debut at No. 1.
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Python at Taj Mahal: 7-foot-long snake found at India's most visited tourist place in a washroom
A snake rescue operation was launched at the Taj Mahal after a CISF personnel spotted a large reptile in a staff washroom. The incident also highlighted the role of Indian rock pythons in maintaining ecological balance and the importance of seeking help from trained wildlife rescuers rather than approaching snakes.
"Very salient": UN climate chief backs PM Modi's remarks on clean energy cushioning India against oil price shock
UN climate chief Simon Stiell has endorsed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks that clean energy investments helped India withstand the oil price shock, calling them "very salient". Stiell also welcomed India's Green Energy Corridor, emphasising the role of renewable energy, stronger electricity grids and battery storage in protecting economies.
4.9-magnitude moderate earthquake hits West Sikkim, mild tremors felt in Gangtok
A 4.9-magnitude earthquake occurred early Thursday morning in the Sikkim-Nepal region, affecting various areas. The tremors were felt in West Sikkim, including the state capital Gangtok and parts of East Sikkim. According to the National Centre for Seismology, the earthquake's epicentre was about 40 km northwest of Yuksom.
Nepal earthquake: 4.9 magnitude tremor recorded at a depth of 73 km
An earthquake of magnitude 4.9 struck Nepal at approximately 4:30 am on Thursday, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS).
UP BJP chief says upcoming election about "defeating those who want to destabilise India"
Pankaj Chaudhary condemned the opposition's recent protests, stating they aim to destabilize the country. He emphasized that the upcoming 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly election is critical for national stability. Chaudhary accused the opposition of seeking to mimic political movements seen in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. He noted the support from the youth and citizens in rejecting the opposition's efforts.
India drawing up list of export snags in South Asia
India is identifying regulatory and market-access barriers in seven South Asian countries to expand exports and reach its $1-trillion target. Merchandise exports to these markets fell 1.3% to $25.7 billion in FY26. The government is examining certification delays, tariffs and product standards while exploring opportunities in chemicals, pharmaceuticals and textiles.
UAE rescues 22 crew members after cargo ship catches fire in Gulf of Oman
UAE Coast Guard successfully rescued 22 crew members of Arab nationality from a burning cargo ship. The operation was initiated after the crew reported the fire on board the vessel. Specialized teams quickly located the ship and evacuated all individuals in a stable condition. This incident follows a previous rescue operation that involved 22 Asian nationals from an oil tanker in October.
Nepal PM seeks $2B package ahead of visit
Nepal is preparing to request a $2 billion economic package from India during Prime Minister Balen Shah's upcoming visit. The package includes $1 billion in credit for infrastructure projects and $1 billion in grants for highway upgrades and post-flood reconstruction. Additionally, Nepal will advocate for new air routes between the two countries during the visit.
MP: Massive fire breaks out in slum area of Jabalpur's Gazinagar
A major fire incident occurred in Gazinagar, Jabalpur, in the late night hours, according to local officials. The police control room was inundated with calls at approximately 2 AM regarding the flames. Firefighter Om Prakash Ahirwar reported that emergency teams were quickly deployed, bringing in multiple fire tenders and water supplies to combat the fire. Authorities are yet to provide further insights about the incident.
Cybercrime networks shift to smaller, mobile scam operations amid enforcement pressure: FATF
In its report released from Paris, the global money-laundering watchdog said large, fortified compounds where cyber slaves were forced to commit financial cybercrimes are being moved to apartments, houses, hotels and office floors, sometimes rebranding as legitimate outsourcing or marketing firms.
Cybercrime networks shift to smaller, mobile scam operations amid enforcement pressure: FATF
In its report released from Paris, the global money-laundering watchdog said large, fortified compounds where cyber slaves were forced to commit financial cybercrimes are being moved to apartments, houses, hotels and office floors, sometimes rebranding as legitimate outsourcing or marketing firms.
Karnataka woman jumps into river to end her life, starts crying for help when crocodile attacks her, police and locals rescue her
In a shocking incident in Karnataka's Udupi district, a woman, overwhelmed by distress, attempted to take her own life by jumping into the Kumaradhara river. In a twist of fate, she sustained minor injuries from a crocodile, which led to her desperate cries for assistance. Quick-thinking locals and police rushed to her aid, saving her life. After receiving medical attention and counseling, she was reunited with her family.
Delhi Police arrests three contractors in Chawri Bazar building collapse case
Three contractors were arrested in connection with the building collapse in Chawri Bazar that killed two people. Five individuals remain trapped in the basement as rescue operations continue in the area. The building collapsed due to suspected improper removal of temporary supports while the concrete was still wet. Rescue teams faced difficulties reaching the site because of the narrow dead-end lane.
Govt eases passport, visa rules for foreign nationals residing in India
The Union home ministry has announced relaxed passport and visa requirements for certain foreign nationals. These amendments apply to individuals including Pakistani citizens and minority refugees. Exemptions also cover members of religious communities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan on humanitarian grounds. Registered Sri Lankan Tamils and Tibetans who entered India under specific permits are included in the amendments.
India ready to help Nepal rebuild flood-hit infra, deepen energy ties
India's foreign secretary Vikram Misri communicated support for Nepal's infrastructure rebuilding after the recent floods. During meetings in Kathmandu, Nepal's PM Balen Shah thanked India for its disaster response assistance. Discussions also focused on expanding energy cooperation, with Nepal seeking new investments in various sectors. Several India-funded projects are set to be inaugurated during Shah's upcoming visit to India. This visit marks Shah's first bilateral overseas engagement as Prime Minister.
India, Nepal reaffirm commitment to all-round enhancement of partnership as FS Misri meets PM Shah
India and Nepal have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Prime Minister Balendra Shah in Kathmandu ahead of his expected visit to Delhi later this month. Discussions covered trade, energy, connectivity, sports and new areas of cooperation, including AI and digital connectivity.
A couple helped fund a new hospital for rescued wildlife in Thailand; it opened in December 2025 to provide emergency treatment and ongoing care
A newly established wildlife hospital in Thailand aims to enhance medical care for rescued animals facing injuries and threats from exploitation or illegal wildlife trade. This state-of-the-art facility will cater to various needs, including emergency treatments and rehabilitation. Long-term care is also available for animals that cannot return to their natural habitat, highlighting the importance of ongoing funding to sustain its vital operations.
Centre relaxes passport, visa rules for select foreign nationals; revises Nepal, Bhutan travel norms
The Centre has announced amendments to immigration rules for several categories of foreign nationals residing in India. Pakistani citizens who entered India before December 31, 2009, may be exempt from renewing their passports. Additionally, certain refugees from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan fleeing persecution are included in these exemptions. Registered Sri Lankan Tamil nationals and Tibetans with specific entry permits also benefit from relaxed requirements.
SJVN holds talks with Nepal government to expedite 1,569-MW hydropower projects
SJVN Ltd chairman Bhupender Gupta met various Nepal government officials to expedite hydropower projects. The discussions focused on the Arun-3 project and the challenges it faces, including land issues. Necessary approvals were also discussed for the pre-construction activities of the Lower Arun project. SJVN aims to strengthen energy security and promote sustainable power generation in Nepal.
Telangana: NDRF rescues 8 fishermen, SDRF personnel missing in Bethupalli Lake; no casualties
Eight fishermen and State Disaster Response Force personnel went missing during a rescue operation at Bethupalli Lake. They were stranded in floodwaters, prompting the SDRF to launch a rescue operation on Wednesday. The situation gained attention from Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, who directed increased efforts for their safe return.
Iran thanks India after airborne commandos recapture pirate-held vessel Azini off Somalia, rescue 20 crew members
Iran has thanked India after Indian Navy commandos recaptured the pirate-held fishing vessel Azini off Somalia and rescued all 20 Iranian crew members in a 48-hour operation. The mission, completed more than 3,000 km from Mumbai, involved an Indian Navy warship, reconnaissance aircraft and support from an IAF C-17 aircraft.
Watch video: How the Indian Navy freed hijacked fishing vessel Azini and rescued all 20 crew members in a 48-hour operation in the Arabian Sea
The Indian Navy rescued all 20 crew members of the hijacked fishing vessel Azini after a 48-hour operation in the Arabian Sea, more than 3,000 km from Mumbai. The mission involved a Navy warship, a reconnaissance aircraft and Marine Commandos, with the Indian Air Force providing support through a precision airdrop.
6 Indian tourists go missing during trek to deepest lake of Nepal, Shey-Phoksundo
Six Indian tourists were reported missing while trekking to Shey-Phoksundo Lake in Nepal after heavy snowfall. Local guides believe the tourists became stranded due to adverse weather conditions influenced by Cyclone Arnab. The group was warned of difficult weather but proceeded towards the high-altitude area. Communication difficulties have complicated search efforts, as mobile phone connectivity is unavailable in the mountain passes.
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