PM Modi gifts Russian translated Bhagvad Gita to Putin, says, ‘teachings of Gita…’, know what makes it special

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a timeless philosophy with Russian President Vladimir Putin as he gifted him a copy of Bhagvad Gita in Russian. The choice of gift is widely seen as a big step in wielding soft power by using ancient knowledge, traditional aspects to show strong ties, based on cultural aspects, beyond hard deals and security issues. The meeting has a special significance also because its timing reflects India’s efforts in balancing its ties both with Russia and the West.
‘Our Energy cooperation remains unaffected…’: Putin remains firm on India-Russia partnership

Russia’s energy partnership with India remains steady and untouched by the latest Western sanctions, President Vladimir Putin told India Today in an exclusive interview.
Good news for Uttar Pradesh communters: Lucknow-Saharanpur Vande Bharat Express to start regular operations from THIS date; Check route, stoppages, fare and more

The Vande Bharat Express connecting Lucknow and Saharanpur will start regular service from December 9 with a revised timetable. The train will cover 526 km in 7 hours and 45 minutes, running six days a week. The updated schedule improves convenience for passengers across Western Uttar Pradesh.
Good news for women in Uttar Pradesh: Anganwadi recruitment opens for 1,057 posts at upanganwadibharti.in, know eligibility and how to apply

UP Anganwadi Recruitment 2025 has announced 1057 vacancies for women applicants in Uttar Pradesh. Eligible 10th and 12th pass candidates aged 18-35 can apply online at upanganwadibharti.in until December 21. Positions include Anganwadi Workers and Assistants across multiple zones.
Delhi-NCR wakes up to toxic smog as air continues to be ‘very poor’ at 323 AQI; Check area-wise pollution levels

Areas like Ghazipur and Akshardham reported thick haze early this morning, with visibility remaining significantly reduced. According to CPCB, many regions of the National Capital fell into the ‘very poor’ category. Check area-wise levels here.
2 Jodhpur businessmen found dead in mysterious circumstances in Thailand, one of them was famous for…, check details

Two businessmen from Jodhpur, Rajasthan, vacationing in Thailand with their families, died under mysterious circumstances. They were found dead in the swimming pool of their hotel.
IndiGo cancels over 550 flights, seeks relief from new pilot duty norms for A320 aircraft, promises operational stability by…
The airline has sought temporary operational exemptions from certain Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) provisions for its A320 fleet until February 10, 2026, and assured that operational stability will be restored by that date, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said in a statement.
Nitin Gadkari announces new barrier-free highway toll collection system, says, ‘Within a year…’

The government has also decided to introduce innovative methods for user fee collection to reduce congestion and eliminate delays at fee plazas on national highways.
42 US lawmakers demand action against Asim Munir, Shehbaz Sharif, exposes Pakistan’s authoritarian regime in fiery letter to Marco Rubio, demands Imran Khan’s release

Forty-two members of the United States Congress have written to Secretary of State Marco Rubio demanding immediate sanctions against senior Pakistani officials over “worsening human rights crisis in Pakistan”. They have also demanded release of former Pak PM Imran Khan.
Amid IndiGo flight delays, cancellation, CEO says ‘Couldn’t live up to…’ in letter to employees

Amid IndiGo flight cancellation and delays for the past few days, IndiGo CEO, Pieter Elbers, wrote a letter a letter to employees expressing grief over the current situation. He said, “Couldn’t live up to promise to customers.” Passengers have been facing chaos at airports across the country.