In a historic legislative shift, the Indian government has repealed the two-decade-old MGNREGA, replacing it with the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB-G RAM G. While the Centre cites a “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision, the Opposition calls it an assault on the federal structure and an insult to Mahatma Gandhi.
Revenue services in Kullu have been paralyzed after the district association launched an indefinite strike protesting the physical assault of a Patwari. The union has refused to resume work until the culprits are jailed.
The confrontation between Himachal PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh and the state bureaucracy has reached the doorstep of the Congress High Command. With officers threatening non-cooperation, the central leadership is attempting to broker a truce.
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India
Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu dedicated 14 pivotal development projects worth ₹76.41 crore in the Sulah Assembly constituency of Kangra. The initiative includes new bridges, health centers, and upgraded water supply schemes aimed at transforming local infrastructure.
A Faridabad court has handed a life sentence to 54-year-old Singh Raj, dubbed a “psycho killer” by investigators. While convicted for a single murder, Raj has confessed to killing five others, including three minor girls and his own relatives.
A workshop on “Smart Manufacturing” was organized in Kandaghat, Solan, aiming to equip local MSMEs with digital tools, AI, and IoT strategies. The event highlighted government schemes for improving productivity and competitiveness.
While the Himachal government showcases the Gaggal Airport land acquisition as a success story of fair compensation, thousands displaced by the historic Pong and Bhakra dams remain forgotten, wandering for their rights even after 50 years.
World
In a major escalation on Thursday, Israeli fighter jets struck four border crossings between Syria and Lebanon. The attacks aim to cut off weapons transfers, while separate strikes in South Lebanon have left at least two dead.
From facing bans to becoming potential kingmakers, Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami has staged a remarkable political comeback. As the nation heads toward crucial elections, analysts are asking: Is the country ready for an Islamist-led government?
President Trump’s flight to Davos was aborted mid-air due to an electrical issue. The delay comes as he prepares to pitch a controversial “Board of Peace” and defend his aggressive stance on Greenland to a skeptical global audience.
A dangerous escalation in Syria sees government forces pushing into Hasakah, putting the 2026 ceasefire under extreme duress and threatening a return to full-scale war in the region.
Sports
The first-ever bilateral T20I series between Ireland and Italy is underway in Dubai. After winning the toss, Paul Stirling’s Ireland has put Italy on the back foot, reducing them to 87/5 in 12 overs despite cameos from JJ Smuts and Anthony Mosca. Follow for live updates.
In a dominant display ahead of the T20 World Cup, India outclassed New Zealand by 48 runs in the series opener. Abhishek Sharma was the star, smashing 84 runs at a strike rate of 240, while the bowlers restricted the visitors to 190/7.
Rumors of moving Bangladesh’s games to Sri Lanka threatened to create logistical chaos, but the BCCI’s categorical denial signals “business as usual” for the 2026 event.
With his appeal rejected, the double Olympic gold medalist must now face a jury to defend his claim that a relationship with a 13-year-old was a “love story” rather than a crime.
Entertainment
The wait is over. Border 2 has hit the screens, and the early reports are in. Director Anurag Singh has successfully blended nostalgia with fresh energy. From Sunny Deol’s surprising “fun mode” to the electric chemistry between Varun Dhawan and Diljit Dosanjh, the film is already winning hearts in the first half.
Podcasts
The wait is over. Border 2 has hit the screens, and the early reports are in. Director Anurag Singh has successfully blended nostalgia with fresh energy. From Sunny Deol’s surprising “fun mode” to the electric chemistry between Varun Dhawan and Diljit Dosanjh, the film is already winning hearts in the first half.