"Have To Go To Jail For Paths We Have Chosen": Arvind Kejriwal To Workers

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal Sunday said his party has gained popularity for its "work-centric politics" and asserted the party workers should be ready "to go to jail for the paths we have chosen for the public good".

Chairing the National Executive and 12th National Council meetings of the party, held virtually on Sunday, he said, "The Aam Aadmi Party has risen to the third place among 1,350 political parties in these 10 years." "If we were not successful and did not do anything good, then none of our party leaders would have gone to jail and today everyone would have been happy with their families," he said.

Mr Kejriwal's remarks assume significance since the Enforcement Directorate has asked him to appear before it on January 3 in connection with the Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case.

The Delhi CM said that two major parties have ruled this country for 75 years and said "these people will not relinquish power so easily".

"I think we are facing a struggle, but there's no need for us to be saddened. Our five leaders who are in jail today are our heroes. We are very proud of all of them. I am continuously in touch with lawyers. It's a very good thing that even while in jail, all our leaders' spirits are still very high.

"On the day Manish Sisodia's bail was cancelled, he sent a message saying, 'It's okay, I'll stay in jail for as many days as needed. This entire case is fabricated, and my struggle will continue'," he added.

At the National Council meeting, Mr Kejriwal asserted that the AAP has given the country a viable alternative in electoral politics and has gained popularity for its "work-centric politics".

Addressing the party workers, he said, "If you give good education to children, you will have to go to jail. If you provide free treatment to the poor, you will have to go to jail. We will have to go to jail for the paths we have chosen for public good." He also praised Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for the remarkable progress in the state.

"We have shown what work can be done that other parties couldn't accomplish in 75 years. In the last two years, the work done by the AAP government in Punjab shows that if our government is in full power in a state, we can work very swiftly and do wonders," he asserted.

He further said that AAP has made a significant impact on national politics in 10 years. For the first time in the country, opposition parties have been compelled to discuss schools and hospitals, he opined.

"Now, these people have replaced manifesto with 'guarantee' term stolen from us. They have started talking about 'Modi's guarantee' and 'Congress's guarantee'. These people have given guarantees to the public, but none of them fulfilled them because their intentions are not right, whereas we are fulfilling all our guarantees," he added.

He also informed the AAP officials about the national council and executive meetings of the party in physical mode in Amritsar in view of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Explaining the hurdles faced by the Delhi government and the freedom enjoyed in full-fledged state Punjab, Mr Kejriwal said, "In Delhi, due to obstructions created by the LG and the Centre, we set up 550 Mohalla Clinics but in Punjab 662 Aam Aadmi Clinics (Mohalla Clinics) are operational now and by January 26, 2024, the number will reach 750 in just two years." He also asked the party workers to build and strengthen the organization across the country. Elections cannot be won without a strong organization in states, he said.

"The AAP is a part of the INDIA alliance in the Lok Sabha elections. We must contest well on the seats we get in seat sharing, and our entire effort will be to win all those seats. Volunteers of the party from states where the AAP isn't contesting Lok Sabha elections will come and help in the places where elections are being contested," he added.

After the Lok Sabha elections, the Haryana Assembly election is the most significant for the party, he said. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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US Strikes Kill 10 Iran-Backed Houthi Rebels In Red Sea: Report

At least 10 Houthi rebels were killed Sunday when US forces struck their boats in the Red Sea, two sources at Yemen's Hodeida port said.

The US military earlier said it had destroyed several small boats operated by the Iran-backed Houthis after the rebels had attacked and tried to board a container ship.

One source at the rebel-controlled port said the wounded were rescued following the strike. The other source, also speaking on condition of anonymity, said there were four other survivors.

"Ten Houthis were killed and two were wounded in the US strike on Houthi boats that tried to stop a vessel in the sea off Hodeida," the first source said.

The second source said that "four survivors have arrived in Hodeida with two wounded who were taken to hospital".

The US Navy had responded to a distress call from the Maersk Hangzhou, a Singapore-flagged, Denmark-owned and operated container ship that reported coming under attack for a second time in 24 hours while transiting the Red Sea, the US Central Command said in a statement.

Houthis had fired on US helicopters, who "returned fire in self-defence", sinking three of four small boats that had come within 20 meters of the ship, according to the statement.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Happy New Year 2024: Wishes, Messages, And WhatsApp Status

New Year 2024 Wishes: It is time to say goodbye to the year that has taught us new things. Whether you've planned resolutions or are embracing the year with a free spirit, it is important to share warm wishes with loved ones.

Here is a list of heartfelt messages to make your friends and relatives feel special this New Year:

• To new beginnings, exciting adventures, and creating beautiful memories in the unfolding chapters of 2024.
• Wishing you a new year full of fresh opportunities, new friendships, and the courage to chase your dreams.
• As 2023 concludes, embrace the lessons it brought, and may 2024 be a blank canvas for new achievements and joys.
• Here's to leaving behind the old, embracing the new, and stepping into 2024 with open hearts and open minds.
• May the dawn of January 1 bring with it a renewed sense of purpose, boundless joy, and endless possibilities.
• As the clock strikes midnight, may you leave behind any regrets and welcome the promise of a fulfilling 2024.
• May the transition from 2023 to 2024 be smooth, bringing with it peace, good health, and a sense of fulfilment.
• As the calendar turns, may you find the strength to overcome challenges and the resilience to face new ones in 2024.
• Wishing you a New Year filled with moments of love, togetherness, and the company of those who matter most.
• Cheers to bidding farewell to 2023 with gratitude and embracing the promise of a brighter, more hopeful 2024.
   

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Man In UK Threatens To Poop On Airport Conveyor Belt Over Luggage Delay

London Gatwick Airport recently witnessed an extraordinary scene when an impatient traveller had an epic meltdown while waiting for his luggage. According to the New York Post, the passenger, who unleashed a verbal tirade on the baggage carousel, threatened to defecate on the conveyor belt if his baggage didn't arrive promptly. "We are waiting! If you don't hurry up I will go poo on the f***ing trail!" the impatient man angrily vowed at the airport.

This recent incident has set a new benchmark for baggage carousel drama. The British traveller, whose name remains unknown, unleashed an epic meltdown after his luggage took a few extra minutes to arrive on a conveyor belt. As per the Post, the man screamed into the carousel in an attempt to talk to baggage handlers behind the scenes. He then threatened to defecate on the belt if his luggage didn't arrive promptly.  

The fed-up flier waited for around 15-20 minutes for his baggage before climbing onto the conveyor belt and threatening to poop again in public, the outlet reported. ""Helloooo? Hellloooo?" the passenger shouted in the abyss. "I'll tell you what, if you don't hurry up I'm going to lay a Richard [defecate] right in front of it [the baggage carousel]," he said.

The man's luggage emerged on the conveyor belt after an exorbitantly long wait time. His baggage was the first to make its grand entrance. "It's number one!" he excitedly shouted with triumphant joy, as per people who witnessed the absurd incident. It is not known when the incident took place. 

Also Read | Man Uses AI To Recreate Late Father's Voice For Unique Christmas Present For Mother

Meanwhile, in a similar incident earlier this year, a passenger onboard an American Airlines flight was kicked out of the plane after a heated argument with a member of the cabin crew over the number of bags kept in the overhead storage bins. A video of the same was shared on Reddit. 

In the clip, the man, who had his hair in a top knot and was wearing a yellow t-shirt, was captured on camera yelling "there's no space" repeatedly after another passenger allegedly kept their luggage above him and then took their seat. The passenger said in the video, "This guy put his luggage up here, now we don't have any space. He's got no space." He continued repeating the same phrase as other passengers boarded the plane. 

The Reddit user who posted the video claimed the man had utilised four of the overhead bins to store his luggage and that he could be seen removing numerous bags as he was being removed. "Ironically, he had like 4 big bags on the overhead bins. I left out the horrendous racist comments he made to the gentleman who put his luggage in the overhead bin," reads the description of the video. 

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Man In UK Threatens To Poop On Airport Conveyor Belt Over Luggage Delay

London Gatwick Airport recently witnessed an extraordinary scene when an impatient traveller had an epic meltdown while waiting for his luggage. According to the New York Post, the passenger, who unleashed a verbal tirade on the baggage carousel, threatened to defecate on the conveyor belt if his baggage didn't arrive promptly. "We are waiting! If you don't hurry up I will go poo on the f***ing trail!" the impatient man angrily vowed at the airport.

This recent incident has set a new benchmark for baggage carousel drama. The British traveller, whose name remains unknown, unleashed an epic meltdown after his luggage took a few extra minutes to arrive on a conveyor belt. As per the Post, the man screamed into the carousel in an attempt to talk to baggage handlers behind the scenes. He then threatened to defecate on the belt if his luggage didn't arrive promptly.  

The fed-up flier waited for around 15-20 minutes for his baggage before climbing onto the conveyor belt and threatening to poop again in public, the outlet reported. ""Helloooo? Hellloooo?" the passenger shouted in the abyss. "I'll tell you what, if you don't hurry up I'm going to lay a Richard [defecate] right in front of it [the baggage carousel]," he said.

The man's luggage emerged on the conveyor belt after an exorbitantly long wait time. His baggage was the first to make its grand entrance. "It's number one!" he excitedly shouted with triumphant joy, as per people who witnessed the absurd incident. It is not known when the incident took place. 

Also Read | Man Uses AI To Recreate Late Father's Voice For Unique Christmas Present For Mother

Meanwhile, in a similar incident earlier this year, a passenger onboard an American Airlines flight was kicked out of the plane after a heated argument with a member of the cabin crew over the number of bags kept in the overhead storage bins. A video of the same was shared on Reddit. 

In the clip, the man, who had his hair in a top knot and was wearing a yellow t-shirt, was captured on camera yelling "there's no space" repeatedly after another passenger allegedly kept their luggage above him and then took their seat. The passenger said in the video, "This guy put his luggage up here, now we don't have any space. He's got no space." He continued repeating the same phrase as other passengers boarded the plane. 

The Reddit user who posted the video claimed the man had utilised four of the overhead bins to store his luggage and that he could be seen removing numerous bags as he was being removed. "Ironically, he had like 4 big bags on the overhead bins. I left out the horrendous racist comments he made to the gentleman who put his luggage in the overhead bin," reads the description of the video. 

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Chhattisgarh's Vishnu Deo Sai Assigns Cabinet Portfolios: Who Gets What

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday assigned portfolios, keeping Mineral Resources, Excise, and General Administration Department with himself while giving home to deputy CM Vijay Sharma and finance ministry to IAS-officer-turned MLA O P Choudhary.

The strength of the state cabinet is 12.

Mr Sai will also handle Energy, Public Relations, Commercial Tax (Excise) and Transport departments and all other departments not specifically assigned to any minister, said the gazette notification issued by the General Administration Department.

Vijay Sharma was given key departments of Home and Jail, Panchayat and Rural Development, Technical Education and Employment, and Science and Technology.

Another Deputy CM Arun Sao would handle Public Works, Public Health Engineering, Law and Legislative Affairs, and Urban Administration departments.

O P Choudhary was assigned, besides Finance, Commercial Tax, Housing and Environment and Planning, Economics, and Statistics departments.

Senior party MLA and minister Brijmohan Agrawal was allocated School Education, Higher Education, Tourism and Culture, Parliamentary Affairs and Dharmik Nyas (religious trust), and Dharmsva departments.

Ram Vichar Netam will be the minister for Agriculture Development and Farmer Welfare, Scheduled Tribes Development, Scheduled Castes Development, Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Minorities Development departments.

The lone minister from the Scheduled Castes community in the cabinet, Dayaldas Baghel, was assigned Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection. The 69-year-old Baghel is the oldest member in the Sai's cabinet.

The youngest and only woman minister in the cabinet, Laxmi Rajwade (31) has been given the charge of the Women and Child Development and Social Welfare departments.

Kedar Kashyap got Forest and Climate Change, Water Resources, Skill Development, and Cooperative Departments while Lakhanlal Dewangan will handle the Commerce Industry and Labor departments.

Shyam Bihari Jaiswal was given Public Health and Family Welfare, Medical Education, and Twenty Point Implementation departments.

Tankram Verma will be the minister for Sports and Youth Welfare and Revenue and Disaster Management departments.

The BJP came back to power in the state by dislodging the Congress in the Assembly polls held in November.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Inside Kareena Kapoor's Holiday Diaries With Friend Natasha Poonawalla

Kareena Kapoor is living her best life in Switzerland and her Instagram stories stand as proof. On Thursday, the Udta Punjab actress treated her social media fans and followers to some picturesque shots from her holiday in the snow-capped Alps. In one picture, we can see Kareena staring out her window. She captioned the image as, "Chasing the light, 4 days to 2024." In the second image, she gave us a glimpse of the surrounding. Below the picture, she wrote, "find your light." The third picture featured Kareena Kapoor posing with her friend Natasha Poonawalla." She captioned the picture as "this is how we keep warm in the snow."

Take a look at the stories below:

A few days back, Kareena Kapoor shared an in-flight picture of baby Jeh sharing out the window.  She captioned the photo, “Baby in the Alps.”

This is the picture we are talking about:

The Heroine star has been a regular visitor to Gstaad in the Swiss Alps for her annual retreats with her husband, Saif Ali Khan, ever since their marriage in 2012. Earlier, she treated fans to stunning images of Saif and their elder son, Taimur, from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, creating memories during their London festivities.

Recently Kareena Kapoor sent a special video message for Karan Johar's new guests, her husband Saif Ali Khan and mother-in-law Sharmila Tagore. In the video, Kareena Kapoor was seen recalling the time she first saw Saif in Ladakh. She said, "My favourite memory will always be the first time I met Saif. Because he was sitting on top of a makeup vanity van in Ladakh without his t-shirt and I was like who is that guy who is sitting on top of a vanity van? And they were like it's Saif and I looked closer and I was like my God, that's Saif. That was the moment I lost my mind and that was it."

Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan got married in 2012 and are parents to sons Taimur and Jeh.

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Nina Singh Is 1st Woman Chief Of CISF That Manages Airport Security

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which provides security cover to the Delhi Metro and airports across the country, has got its first woman chief.

Nina Singh, a 1989-batch IPS officer of Rajasthan cadre who was serving as the Special DG of CISF, has become the first woman to be elevated to the post of Director General in the central force. She has been with the CISF since 2021 and will remain at the helm till her retirement on July 31 next year.

Anish Dayal Singh, who was heading the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), has been named the Director General of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) as part of the new appointments.

Nina Singh, who is from Bihar, studied at the Patna Women's College and the Jawaharlal Nehru University. She also holds a Master's degree in Public Administration from Harvard University.

Her achievements include becoming the first woman to hold the top police post in Rajasthan. Six officers are in the Director General rank in the state police force.

In 2000, as a member secretary for the State Women's Commission, she had designed an outreach programme under which members of the commission would go to districts to hold hearings for women in distress.

She has co-authored two research papers with Nobel laureates Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo. She also worked on a project for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2005-2006 to make police stations more approachable.

During 2013-2018, when she was the Joint Director of CBI, she oversaw high-profile cases such as the Sheena Bora murder case and the Jiah Khan suicide case. In 2020, she was awarded the Ati Utkrisht Seva Medal for professional excellence.

Her husband Rohit Kumar Singh is an Indian Administrative Service officer, currently posted as the Secretary of Union consumer affairs ministry.

The CISF with a 1.76 lakh-personnel strong central armed police force is mandated to guard the Delhi Metro, civil airports, and sensitive installations in the aerospace and nuclear domain.

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Ayodhya's New Airport To Be Named After Maharishi Valmiki: Report

The new airport in Ayodhya will be named after sage poet Maharishi Valmiki, sources said on Thursday.

According to the sources, the name of the new airport will be 'Maharishi Valmiki International Airport Ayodhya Dham'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the newly built Ayodhya Airport on December 30.

"Phase 1 of the state-of-the-art airport is developed at a cost of more than Rs 1,450 crore. The airport's terminal building will have an area of 6500 sqm, equipped to serve about 10 lakh passengers annually. The facade of the Terminal Building depicts the temple architecture of the upcoming Shri Ram Mandir of Ayodhya. The interiors of the terminal Building are decorated with local art, paintings and murals depicting the life of Bhagwan Shri Ram," the Prime Minister's Office said in a statement.

The terminal building of Ayodhya airport is also equipped with various sustainability features like an insulated roofing system, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, landscaping with fountains, a water treatment plant, sewage treatment plant, solar power plant and many other such features have been provided to meet GRIHA - 5-star ratings.

The airport will improve connectivity in the region, leading to a boost in tourism, business activities and employment opportunities, PMO said.

PM Modi will also lay the foundation stone of a greenfield township in Ayodhya being developed at a cost of more than Rs 2,180 crore. PM Modi will also flag off two new Amrit Bharat trains and six new Vande Bharat trains.

Maharishi Valmiki is credited for writing the epic Ramayana.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Man Refusing To Swap Seats With Pregnant Woman On Airplane Praised Online

A man has been praised online for refusing to swap seats with a pregnant woman on an airplane. In a post shared on Reddit, a man explained that he was flying solo to visit family over the holidays and carefully selected an aisle seat that was next to the bathroom. "Right before boarding, a woman asked me to give up my seat so she could sit closer to the bathroom. She was pregnant but did not seem distressed," he wrote.

Reddit user u/michaeldonelly shared the post, titled "AITA (Am I the A**hole) and for not giving up my airline seat to a pregnant woman?", on December 15. He explained that he paid extra because he has a medical issue that sometimes requires "quick access to the bathroom". Because of this, he wasn't willing to change his seating arranges, the user said. 

"I did not feel it was fair to demand I move from the seat I planned for and paid for, especially since she apparently had not booked an aisle seat herself in advance," he wrote. 

AITA for not giving up my airline seat to a pregnant woman?
byu/michaeldonelly inAITAH

Further, the social media user claimed that the flight attendants didn't try to help resolve the issue and there weren't any empty aisle seats that could facilitate the pregnant woman's request. He concluded by stating that his family backed the woman as they felt that he should have "inconvenienced" himself. 

Since being shared, the Reddit post has accumulated more than 15,000 upvotes. In the comments section, users praised the man for keeping his seat since he made specific accommodations before the flight. 

"NTA. [Not the a******] She should have booked another seat she wanted herself or not gone on the flight. Seems she just assumed she wouldn't have to pay for it, since some sucker was going to move. The flight attendants are at fault for not mediating. At some point they should have told her to go back to her seat (and all of this is regardless of your medical issues. You paid for the seat. She didn't.)," wrote one user. 

Also Read | Flight Attendants Reveal 5 "Dirtiest, Rarely Cleaned" Spots On An Airplane

"Because she felt entitled to it because she was pregnant. She thought she could use that to her advantage. But, she found out she couldn't. And rightfully so OP!!! You booked and paid for that seat. NTA," said another. 

"NTA- I say this as someone who has been pregnant and has flown solo with a toddler ... every passenger has equal opportunity to pre-book seats based on their needs and preferences. It's no one's business why you booked that seat. Was the passenger or airline going to reimburse you for the cost of pre-booking the seat? Zero obligation for you to move," commented a third user. 

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"Permanent Husband": Case Against RSS Leader For Triple Talaq Remarks

A case has been filed against an RSS leader in Karnataka for his alleged remark that while Muslim men are unhappy with the BJP government at the Centre for passing a bill declaring triple talaq illegal, Muslim women are happy because they now have a "permanent husband". 

In a speech during an event in Karnataka's Srirangapatna on Sunday, RSS Leader Prabhakar Bhat Kalladka had said, "Until recently, the practice of divorce through triple talaq was legal, but it has been done away with since the Modi government came to power. Muslim men must be very unhappy about this."

"But the Muslim women must be very happy with this move as they used to have a new husband every day because they used to say talaq, talaq, talaq and leave. They couldn't say they have a life-long husband. It's the Modi government that has given you a permanent husband," Mr Kalladka said.

The event, called the Sankeerna Yatra, was organised by a right-wing outfit, the Hindu Jagrana Vedike.

After the statement went viral on social media, a social worker, Nazia Nazeer, filed a complaint at the Srirangapatna police station. A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against Mr Kalladka under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including those pertaining to promoting enmity between groups, outraging religious feelings and insulting the modesty of a woman.

The practice of divorce through triple talaq had been deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2017 and the Parliament passed a law declaring it illegal in 2019. 

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Iran Says Israeli Strike Kills Senior General In Syria

A senior general with Iran's Revolutionary Guards was killed Monday by an Israeli strike in Syria, the military force said, with Tehran vowing to make Israel "pay for this crime".

Iranian state media also reported the death of Razi Moussavi, describing him as "one of the most experienced advisors" of Quds Force, the foreign arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

There was no immediate comment from Israel, which has repeatedly said it will not allow arch-enemy Iran to expand its presence in Syria.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi expressed condolences for Moussavi's death, saying Israel "will certainly pay for this crime".

The general "was killed during an attack by the Zionist regime a few hours ago in Zeinabiyah district in the suburbs of Damascus," official news agency IRNA reported, using a different name for Sayyida Zeinab south of the Syrian capital.

Moussavi was "active in the field of providing logistical support to the axis of resistance in Syria," IRNA said, referring to groups backed by Tehran and arrayed against Israel.

The IRGC in a statement said Moussavi was killed in a "missile attack" and also vowed to avenge his death.

The statement noted that Moussavi was a companion of General Qassem Soleimani, Iran's revered Quds commander who was killed in Baghdad in a US drone strike in 2020.

Next week Iran will mark the fourth anniversary of Soleimani's assassination, and Moussavi was the most senior Quds Force general killed since.

'Three missiles' 

Iran's state TV said Moussavi was targeted by "three missiles" and aired footage showing smoke rising from the area of the strike.

A Britain-based monitor, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, reported Israeli strikes on positions used by Iranian groups and by Lebanon's powerful Tehran-aligned Hezbollah in the Sayyida Zeinab area.

Residents reported hearing loud explosions and seeing columns of smoke rising from farms in the area.

Since Syria's civil war began in 2011, Israel has launched hundreds of air strikes on its northern neighbour, primarily targeting Iran-backed forces and Hezbollah fighters as well as Syrian army positions.

On December 2, the IRGC accused Israel of killing two of its members in Syria, where the force said they had been on an advisory mission, without providing further details.

Israel, which rarely comments on reported strikes in Syria, has intensified attacks there particularly against Hezbollah since the start of its war against Hamas -- also backed by Iran -- triggered by the Palestinian group's October 7 attacks.

The Islamic republic, which supports Hamas financially and militarily, has hailed the deadly attacks on southern Israel as a "success" but denied any direct involvement.

Iran does not recognise Israel and has made support for the Palestinian cause a centrepiece of its foreign policy since the 1979 Islamic revolution.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Drunk Tourists To Be Sent To Hotels, Not Jails: Himachal Chief Minister

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday urged tourists to follow rules and regulations, adding that police will not lock up drunk tourists; instead, they will take them to hotels.

He made the gesture towards them to promote tourism in the state, which is witnessing a large influx of visitors during the festive season of Christmas and New Year.

Due to the Winter Carnival, the state government has decided to keep hotels, restaurants, and dhabas open 24 hours a day for the convenience of tourists. Apart from this, the police have also been instructed not to harass the tourists.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the weeklong 'Winter Carnival' in Shimla to promote tourism in the state and said, "We want to promote tourism in the state. We have opened eating joints, Dhaba and restaurants that will function 24 hours a day, starting from December 20 to January 5. So that the tourists do not face any problems."

The Chief Minister further said, "The police will send drunken tourists back to hotels rather than jails. I urge all the tourists to follow rules and regulations."

The traditional folk dances are drawing the attention of the people here. While addressing the gathering here, the Chief Minister said that over 30,000 tourist vehicles entered the state on Monday.

"Over 30000 thousand tourist vehicles have entered the state today," he further said, adding that the tourists were taken special care of by the state government during this festive and new year's season in the state.

The Chief Minister said that the Carnival will be organised every year in Shimla. Many tourists are overwhelmed after witnessing the winter carnival.

"I have been coming to Shimla for a long time; there are a large number of people gathered here. I have never seen it this crowded here. We are enjoying the carnival and ambience here. It's nice to be here," said Ridhi, a tourist from Punjab.

"We are feeling good to be here; the traditional dances and folk in the winter carnival are fantastic, and we are enjoying them," said Manish Agarwal, another tourist.

Many folklore artists expressed their joy in performing at the winter carnival.

"It is very good to be here. We are performing here and the winter carnival is being organised here for the first time. The artists have come from different parts of the state and also from other states of the country. It is good to be a part of this carnival," said Rohit, a young traditional folk artist.

The artists are also pleased to get a platform to perform in front of tourists, both domestic and international.

"I think the winter carnival is a big initiative to give a platform to the artists here. It is a good initiative to showcase the traditional art of the region," said Joginder Singh Habbi, a folk artist.

"After Corona, the artists were not getting platforms, even though there were floods that had also hit the festivals and such performances. Now it's time for festivals and the New Year season. A large number of people have gathered here and it is good to be here," he added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Viral Pic: MS Dhoni Celebrates Christmas With Family; Pant Joins Them

Former India captain MS Dhoni celebrated the festival of Christmas with his family and friends. Noticeably, India's star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant also joined them during the celeration. The picture of the unit posing in front of a Christmas tree is going viral on social media. Rohit and Pant could be seen donning Christmas hats alongside other members present in the picture. The photo was uploaded through the Instagram account of Dhoni's daughter Ziva with a caption: "Merry Christmas!"

See it here:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ZIVA SINGH DHONI (@ziva_singh_dhoni)

Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant was part of the franchise's contingent at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 Auction in Dubai. The wicket-keeper batter, who has been missing in action for more than a year due to injury, was present at the auction and took part in a number of bids.

Later in the day, he was seen playing tennis with Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni in an indoor tennis court. Both cricketers looked focused during the game and an overhead smash from Pant even caught Dhoni by surprise. Fans were excited to see them in action and the video has gone viral on social media.

"Doing much better than what I was doing a few months ago. Still on recovery to 100 per cent, but in a few months time I will be able to do it," said Pant.

When asked about his recovery, he added: "It has been really amazing because whenever we keep playing cricket we feel no one loves us because there is so much pressure. Yes it was a hard time, but at least I got to know that people love and respect me and kind of kind of concern that they showed by heartwarming and crazy for me. It means a lot and helped a lot in recovery."

(With ANI Inputs)

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"They Go To Harvard...": Veep's Veiled Attack At Rahul Gandhi's US Speech

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Sunday said there was a need to "generate a climate" to nip in the bud anti-national narratives set afloat by design to malign institutions and high constitutional offices.

Addressing the convocation ceremony of Gautam Buddha University in Greater Noida, he expressed sadness that "one of our parliamentarians went to Harvard and said that India's democracy is in peril and in danger." The vice-president said India is the only country where power transfer is done by the ballot and there has never been any problem.

Once the vote has been cast on the machine and the result declared by the election commission, then there is universal acceptance of the decision but then "they go to Harvard and say this", Vice President Dhankhar said.

"We have to generate a climate that anti-national narratives set afloat by designs, by a strategy to malign institutions, high constitutional offices, they must be nipped in the bud," the Vice President said.

"Let me tell you boys and girls that India is the only country in the world that has constitutionally structured democracy at the village level, at the panchayat level, at the district level, at the state level and the Central level," Vice President Dhankhar said.

The vice-president drew a comparison between India of the past and that of the present to say, "Today's India is not in anyone's grip. India has its own thinking in foreign affairs. Our voice is being heard. Our passport has that respect that we had never imagined. We are in a position to take tough steps."

"But people must keep in mind the teachings of Gautam Buddha also," he stressed, adding that India is the only country which has not tried to expand outside its territory and instead tolerated invasion.

Vice President Dhankhar said that India's prime minister has given a message to the world that this is not an era of expansion and not an era of war. "Issues must be decided by diplomacy and dialogue," he said.

The vice president told the gathering that a handful of people want to undermine India's growth and ethos and the youth should not stay silent on such issues.

"Silence will ever resonate in your ears. Therefore, use your mind, use your discretion, be judgmental about it and then take the right course," he said, adding, "We have unbreakable faith in Indianness. We will always keep the interest of the nation above everything else. We are proud citizens of Bharat."

Vice President Dhankhar heaped lavish praise on Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the transformation of Uttar Pradesh in terms of investments, and law and order. He said Uttar Pradesh has been catapulted to the status of a "role model of role models".

"Desh ki baat to chhodiye duniya mein koi baat hoti hai role model ki to maan-neey mukhymantri ji Ko yad Kiya jata hai (Let alone the country, across the world whenever role models are discussed, the chief minister's name is mentioned," the vice president remarked.

He noted that Uttar Pradesh has also made its mark in getting investments.

"It has become a hot favourite destination for investments even in the premium category, the common investors were already coming here," Vice President Dhankhar said, with CM Adityanath, state ministers Nand Gopal Gupta, Brijesh Singh, and Gautam Buddha University functionaries in attendance.

Recalling his stint as the governor of West Bengal before he became the vice president, Vice President Dhankhar said he was chancellor of three dozen universities in that state. "I know what can happen with chancellors at some places while I also had the good fortune of serving at some like Panjab University".

"But I can say that this convocation is unique because it has dimensions like growth, confidence and civilisational ethos where there have been talks of keeping our cultural heritage intact and staying physically fit.

"The honourable chief minister has stolen a part of my heart, and part of my address also," Vice President Dhankhar said in a light note of praise for Yogi Adityanath.

Vice President Dhankhar said he thought a "politician" (Adityanath) would be addressing the convocation ceremony but a "spiritual leader, academician, statesman and far-thinking person" spoke to the students.

At the convocation ceremony, Yogi Adityanath said religion is not a method of worship, but a coordinated form of morality, moral values and duty. He invoked the teachings of Gautam Buddha, saying his life is not only inspirational but also shows a new path to the country and the world.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Most Indians On Flight Grounded In France To Leave Today: Report

Most of the roughly 300 Indians travelling on a plane detained near Paris over suspicions of human trafficking will be free to resume their trip Monday, French judicial sources said Sunday.

The Nicaragua-bound Airbus A340 and its 303 Indian passengers have been held at Vatry airport, 150 kilometres (95 miles) east of Paris, since arriving Thursday from Dubai for refuelling after an anonymous tip-off that it was carrying potential victims of human trafficking.

Four French judges began questioning the passengers Sunday to verify the "conditions and purposes" of their travel, and have two days to complete speaking to the passengers.

The judges have the authority to extend the detention, but Paris prosecutors told AFP they expect the plane and its passengers to be cleared for departure late Monday morning "at the latest," without naming a destination.

The passengers of the flight operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines are holed up in the airport. They include 11 unaccompanied minors, according to Paris prosecutors.

Two passengers have been detained since Friday "to verify" whether their role "may have been different than the others in this transport, and under what conditions and with what objectives."

Ten of the passengers have requested asylum, a source close to the case said.

Tarpaulin covered the entrance hall's glass exterior and nearby administrative buildings, while police and gendarmes prevented access.

Individual beds, as well as toilets and showers, have been installed, the local prefecture said.

The Indian embassy in Paris Saturday posted on X that "embassy consular staff" are on site to working with French authorities "for the welfare" of detained passengers for an "early resolution of the situation."

The 30 crew members were not detained. Some handled the Dubai-Vatry leg and others were to take over for the flight to Managua. According to Flightradar24, Legend Airlines has just four planes.

A source close to the inquiry told AFP that some of the Indian passengers were likely workers in the United Arab Emirates who may be traveling to Nicaragua as a jumping off spot for the United States or Canada.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Watch: Sound On! Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma In Nets Is A Sight To behold

India's veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli sweated it out in companionable silence in the nets during team's practice session on Sunday. India will be aiming for their maiden Test series win in South Africa when they take on the Proteas in a two-match series, starting December 26. There's a 31-year jinx in Indian cricket having missed out on a Test series win in the 'Rainbow Nation' and in the twilight zone of their careers, both Rohit and Kohli would want to achieve which no other Indian teams could.

While Kohli, who came back from London after a short break with family, joined the training after half an hour, Rohit did look a bit more relaxed after shutting himself off for three weeks.

The two batted in different nets and centre practice strip, and also faced throwdowns for more than an hour.

There was hardly any conversation between them even when they took short breaks in between. Unlike the World Cup nets when there was a mix of both focus and laughter, the only sound that made you sit up and take notice was that of the red leather colliding with the willow.

Watch it here:

Virat Kohli in the practice session.

- The King is gearing up for the 26th.pic.twitter.com/WS19Vm0KU7

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 24, 2023

Dekho vo aa gaya #ViratKohli #primiily pic.twitter.com/WHhai0SAlX

— Ajay (@coruptajxy) December 24, 2023

Virat Kohli And Prasidh during the Practice Session at South Africa!!#viratkohli #Prasidh #Rohit #ViratKohli #virat #kohil #Test #INDvAUS #INDvsSA #Rcb #INDvSA pic.twitter.com/UiX9Ojr0Na

— Mollah Shamim (@MollahShamim165) December 24, 2023

The batters could be in for some challenging times with the Supersport Park track expected to aid the fast bowlers as rain threat looms large over the opening Test between India and South Africa, curator Brain Bloy said on Saturday.

The Centurion curator said that there is little possibility of play on opening day and better part of second day and due to heavy rain, there will be drop in temperature and spinners are unlikely to get much help.

"Temperature will be super low, like 20 degrees. The temperature is now 34 and it will drop to 20. I don't know what conditions will be like, whether we will get play on Day 1," Bloy told PTI after his regular inspection of work.

"Hopefully we will get some play and it will be cool on Day 3 and I don't know how much turn will be available." 

Bloy said that if track remains under cover, batting first will be a tough ask.

(With PTI Inputs)

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Woman Goes To Hospital With Headache, Wakes Up With No Memory Of 30 Years

A sixty-year-old woman in the US has recalled the time when she woke up with no recollection of the last 30 years of her life after she visited the hospital because of a headache. The intriguing medical case unfolded in 2018 when the woman then 56, awoke with the belief that she was still a teenager in the 1980s, New York Post reported. Kim Denicola, a resident of Louisiana, is now cherishing this Christmas season as she reflects on the many holidays lost to her mysterious memory loss.

''I've lost a lot of Christmases, so it's a big deal,'' Mrs Denicola, now 60, told WAFB. ''It's unbelievable to me as it probably is to other people. Never in my wildest dreams did I get up and go to bible study and think I'm going to wake up in the hospital and I'm going to be 60 years old,'' she added.

According to her family, she developed a blinding headache and sudden blurry vision while at a bible study. When she woke up in the hospital emergency room, she had no recollection that she was married and had two children. The last thing Mrs Denicola remembered was her final day of school.

''I was leaving school and heading for my car. I had just taken an exam because I was graduating my senior year. 'The nurse asked me: "Do you know what year it is?" I said: "Yes, ma'am it is 1980". She asked me who the president was and I said: "Ronald Reagan''.

She was also heartbroken to learn that both her mother and father had died years earlier.

Though she was diagnosed with transient global amnesia (TGA), doctors can't tell her for sure what happened despite extensive tests and scans. Five years later in 2023, the 60-year-old grandmother has still not recovered memories.

Doctors say that if her memories haven't returned by now, they are unlikely to ever resurface.

The woman is still trying to make sense of her new life and is in the process of getting to know her family anew, including her husband, children, and four grandchildren. She has also been reading journal entries to remember her life but says it feels like reading about someone else.

''I may have lost my memories, but guess what? We can make new ones,'' she said. 

''You can't be mad and bitter because the good Lord left me here for a reason. Whatever that may be, I'm sure he'll let me know one way or another. And maybe this is it maybe it's to tell people you don't have to give up,'' she added. 

Despite the difficulties, she is now re-discovering things she loved and insists that she's moving forward. Mrs Denicola said her Christmas dream is to have her entire family back together celebrating under one roof.

According to the National Library of Medicine, TGA often occurs during periods of ''particularly strenuous activity, high-stress events, or coitus, but it can be seen with migraines.'' It mostly affects individuals middle-aged and older. 

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"Just Because I Am Close To Brij Bhushan...": Wrestling Body Chief Amid Row

Newly-appointed Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Sanjay Singh on Saturday lashed out at the protesting grapplers for "engaging in politics" and asserted that he is not a dummy candidate of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Sanjay Singh, who was elected as the president of the WFI on Thursday, is known to be a close confidante of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who had been accused of sexual harassment by the country's top wrestlers such as Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia.

Sanjay Singh won most of the votes in the delayed polls, as outgoing chief Brij Bhushan gained indirect control over the national federation.

"Those who are athletes have already started preparing and those who want to engage in politics can do that. It is their personal matter, I will not speak about this.

"I have been in the federation for 12 years. Just because I am close to MP (Brij Bhushan) does not mean I am a dummy candidate. Is it a crime if I am close to him?" Sanjay Singh told reporters when asked about Sakshi Malikdeciding to quit wrestling after his election to the top spot.

Expressing her disappointment, a teary-eyed Sakhi Malik on Thursday announced her decision to retire form the sport following the wrestling body's elections. On Friday, Bajrang Punia, who is also a Olympic bronze medallist like Sakshi Malik, decided to return his Padma Shri to the government as a mark of protest.

A BJP Lok Sabha MP from Uttar Pradesh's Kaiserganj, Brij Bhushan stepped down as WFI president after being accused of exploitation by top female wrestlers in the country.

Meanwhile, Sakshi Malik said she is worried about the junior wresters who has been "calling me about the junior nationals".

The new body under president Sanjay Singh had on Friday announced that the U15 and U20 nationals will be held from December 28-30 in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh.

"I have given up wrestling but I am worried since last night. What should I do about those junior women wrestlers who are calling me and telling me that the junior nationals are going to be held from 28th and the new wrestling federation has decided to hold it in Nandani Nagar Gonda.

"Gonda is the area of ​​Brij Bhushan. Now imagine how the junior women wrestlers will go there to compete. Is there no place in this country to hold Nationals anywhere other than Nandani Nagar? I don't understand what to do." The WFI also said the senior National Championships will be held from January 28 in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar.

As a rule, a state association has to show interest in hosting Nationals.

On Thursday, Sanjay Singh was elected as the president of the WFI after the panel led by him won 13 of the 15 posts.

Earlier, Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat had demanded that no close associate of Brij Bhushan should enter the WFI.

The three top wrestlers had accused Brij Bhushan of sexually exploiting several women wrestlers. They had even contemplated throwing away their medals into river Ganga on May 30 in Haridwar but the farmer leaders had convinced them not to take the step. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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iPhone 12 Submerged In US River 3 Months Ago Found In Working Condition

A diver cleaning a river in the United States recently found an Apple iPhone 12 all covered in algae. However, in a remarkable display of durability, the smartphone defied all expectations and emerged in perfect working condition even after spending around 3 months submerged in the Northern California Stanislaus River. According to Apple Insider, the unexpected discovery transpired when diver Lee discovered the algae-covered iPhone 12 in November. He cleaned up the phone and set it aside to dry out for a few days, following which he managed to switch on the phone after connecting a charger.

The iPhone 12 comes with an IP68 rating. According to Apple, the phone can last 30 minutes in 6-meter deep water. However, this one iPhone unit seems to be breaking the rules as it managed to remain functional even after being submerged in water for over 3 months. Speaking to Apple Insider, Lee shared his story of the discovery and revealed how he successfully managed to switch on the phone. 

Lee discovered the mobile treasure while cleaning the Stanislaus River on November 10 and after drying the phone, he switched on the device after connecting it to a charger. The diver revealed that the phone lacked a passcode or face unlock setup due to which he was able to unlock it and access its stored data. 

Lee told the outlet that the most recent item in the Photos app was a video captured on the river on September 4, suggesting that it had been submerged there for three months. He stated that he hasn't been able to get in touch with the owner of the iPhone but plans to reach out to the contacts.

Also read | This Is The Most Deleted App Of 2023. The Name Is...

Meanwhile, this is not the first time that such an incident has taken place. In 2022, a man in the United Kingdom who dropped his mobile phone in a river nearly a year ago was reunited with his device in working condition. A Facebook user Miguel Pacheco had made a post in a local group about finding an iPhone while canoeing in the Wye River. The man said that he took the phone home and dried it properly. The next day, he charged the device and was surprised to discover that it still worked. 

The internet user revealed that the screensaver on the phone was a photo of a couple and the date it showed was August 13. Mr Pacheco then set out to find the owner. He then found out the couple's address in Edinburgh, UK, and sent the phone to them. 

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Wayfair CEO Calls For Longer Work Hours: "Winning Requires Hard Work"

Niraj Shah, Indian-American Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of online furniture firm Wayfair, curated a special message for his employees after the company yielded profitable results. According to CNN, in his note to employees, Mr Shah not only encouraged employees to work hard and be ambitious but also asked them to do more work and blend "work with life". He told them to not shy away from working long hours and added that there was no historical evidence which showed laziness led to success. 

"Winning requires hard work. I believe that most of us, being ambitious individuals, find fulfilment in the joy of seeing our efforts materialize into tangible results," the CEO said in a note to employees earlier this month, as per CNN. "Working long hours, being responsive, blending work and life, is not anything to shy away from. There is not a lot of history of laziness being rewarded with success," he added. 

According to Fortune, Mr Shah also added that the idea staff should not work was "laughably false". "Hard work is essential for success, and a key part of getting things done," the CEO said, adding, "Everyone deserves to have a great personal life - everyone manages that in their own way - ambitious people find ways to blend and balance the two". 

In his letter, Mr Shah also encouraged Wayfair employees to think of the company money they spend as their own and negotiate prices. "Would you spend money on that, would you spend that much money for that thing, does that price seem reasonable, and lastly - have you negotiated the price?" he wrote. 

The Indian-American CEO told employees in his email that the company is back to being profitable. "Together we can win much faster than we are winning now if we all row in this direction together. Let's be aggressive, pragmatic, frugal, agile, customer-oriented, and smart," he said. 

Also Read | Ex CEO Of Tech Mahindra Shares Valuable Insights As He Announces Retirement From Corporate Life

Meanwhile, on the internet, users called Mr Shah's note "toxic". "He's basically saying if you don't work late then you're lazy. Long hours don't prove anything about productivity. It just means you worked long hours!" wrote one Reddit user. "I love when these CEOs talk about 'winning' as if the employees get absolutely anything out of the company's profitability," said another. 

"If you're actually being compensated for your time, sure. If you're making an average salary but dealing with corporate BS, move on," expressed a third. "I'll sacrifice the life in work-life balance when the paycheck reflects that it is worth it. I doubt it is for anyone he is giving this lecture to (that he probably thinks is SO inspirational).," added another. 

Notably, Mr Shah is not the first CEO to glamourise overworking. Earlier, Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy said that India's work culture needs to change and youngsters should be prepared to work for 70 hours a week if the country has to compete effectively on the global stage. He stated that India's work productivity is one of the lowest in the world and asked the youth the contribute towards building the culture so that India can compete effectively on the global stage. He also drew parallels with Japan and Germany, two countries that implemented extended working hours after the Second World War. 

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Samsung Galaxy S24 Series Full Specifications Leak Ahead of Launch

Samsung Galaxy S24 series is expected to launch in January 2024 in a Galaxy Unpacked event. The upcoming lineup that is said to succeed the Galaxy S23 series that arrived in global markets in February this year, is likely to include a base Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra models. Specifications, design renders, colour options and configurations of the purported Galaxy S24 handsets have surfaced online multiple times in the past few weeks and a tipster has now leaked the complete specifications of the three anticipated smartphones. 

Tipster Evan Blass (@evleaks) leaked the detailed specifications of the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 series models in a post on X. The original media was soon removed from the platform following a content takedown request, but 9to5Google snapped a screenshot of the specifications sheet before it was taken down.

Samsung Galaxy S24 series leaked specifications sheet
Photo Credit: X/ @evleaks (via 9to5Google)

 

As per the leaked specifications sheet, all three models — the Samsung Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+ and the Galaxy S24 Ultra will be powered by Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The base and Plus phones are said to get Aluminium Armor 2.0 bodies, while the Ultra model is expected to come with a Titanium frame. All the handsets are also expected to support 8K quality video recording.

The base Samsung Galaxy S24 is said to come with a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X full-HD+ panel, while the Galaxy S24+ and Galaxy S24 Ultra may sport 6.7-inch and 6.8-inch displays, respectively, with Dynamic AMOLED 2X quad-HD+ resolution. All the models are expected to support a peak brightness level of 2,600 nits.

Samsung is expected to pack a 4,000mAh battery into the base Galaxy S24 model, while the Galaxy S24+ and Galaxy S24 Ultra are likely to pack 4,900mAh and 5,000mAh batteries, respectively. The phones are said to be offered in black, grey, violet, and yellow colour options. The vanilla model is said to come with 8GB of RAM and be available in 128GB and 256GB storage variants. Meanwhile, the Plus and Ultra models are said to get 12GB of RAM each and be offered in storage variants of 256GB and 512GB.

The Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24+ are likely to sport 50-megapixel triple rear camera units with up to 3x dual telephoto lenses. The Galaxy S24 Ultra, on the other hand, is expected to be equipped with a 200-megapixel quad rear camera system with support for up to 10x telephoto lens.

A previous leak suggested that the top-of-the-line Galaxy S24 Ultra model is expected to be equipped with an AI-powered feature which is said to help users erase subjects from videos. The artificial intelligence support is also likely to boost low-light performance, lower graininess, and enhance stability and exposure of video recordings.

---

Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 alongside the Galaxy Tab S9 series and Galaxy Watch 6 series at its first Galaxy Unpacked event in South Korea. We discuss the company's new devices and more on the latest episode of Orbital, the Gadgets 360 podcast. Orbital is available on Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and wherever you get your podcasts.

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People Know Nation Is "On Cusp Of Take-Off": PM Modi On 2024 Polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has underscored the BJP's hopes for a third term in the 2024 general election, saying the people of India trust the party that brought them this far.

In an interview with Financial times, PM Modi said, "They realise that our nation is on the cusp of a take-off... They want this flight to be expedited, and they know the best party to ensure this is the one which brought them this far."

In the wide-ranging interview, the Prime Minister also spoke of India's foreign policy that in a world that is "interconnected as well as interdependent", job creation, comparisons with China and the government's focus on Make in India.

His government, he said, has shown steady improvement in job creation and focussing on efforts that would make India the next big destination for investment.

"We aspire to create conditions where everyone sees value in being in India to invest and expand their operations here," the Prime Minister told FT.

"We envision a system where anyone from around the world feels at home in India, where our processes and standards are familiar and welcoming," he added.

This path is expected to be smoothed by the country's upward trajectory in terms of relations with world powers -- including the improved relation with the US and the increasing suspicion towards Beijing. .  

"Our foremost guiding principle in foreign affairs is our national interest," PM Modi said. "This stance allows us to engage with various nations in a manner that respects mutual interests and acknowledges the complexities of contemporary geopolitics."

Regarding comparisons with China, where many feel India's growth spurt should be bigger than the current rate and concerns about corruption, administrative hurdles, and skills gap among the young, PM Modi said India cannot be compared to China.
 
"You have done a comparison with China, but it might be more apt to compare India with other democracies," he said.

"It is important to recognise that India wouldn't have achieved the status of the world's fastest-growing economy if the issues you've highlighted were as pervasive as suggested," he said. "Often, these concerns stem from perceptions, and altering perceptions sometimes takes time," he added.

Asked about Opposition allegations against his government that includes "targetting" of his detractors, PM Modi said there is a "whole ecosystem that is using the freedom available in our country to hurl these allegations" through media.

They have the right to do so, but "others have an equal right to respond with facts," he added.

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"War Over Tomorrow If...": Antony Blinken Hits Out At "Aggressor" Hamas

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken has strongly called out nations of not demanding that the terrorist organisation Hamas stop hiding behind civilians, lay down its arms, and surrender.

In a press briefing at the US State Department on Wednesday, Blinken said that many countries are urging the end to the ongoing conflict, but how is it possible that there are no demands made of the aggressor?

"What is striking to me is that even as, again, we hear many countries urging the end to this conflict, which we would all like to see, I hear virtually no one saying--demanding of Hamas that it stop hiding behind civilians, that it lay down its arms, that it surrender. This is over tomorrow if Hamas does that. This would have been over a month ago, six weeks ago, if Hamas had done that," Blinken said.

"How can it be that there are no demands made of the aggressor and only demands made of the victim?" he added.

Blinken's remarks coincide with ongoing negotiations by the UN Security Council on a resolution that would suspend hostilities and encourage the delivery of greater humanitarian supplies to the devastated Gaza Strip, CNN reported.

"Understandably, everyone would like to see this conflict end as quickly as possible," said Blinken at the end-of-year press availability, adding, "if it ends with Hamas remaining in place and having the capacity and the stated intent to repeat October 7th again and again and again, that's not in the interests of Israel; it's not in the interests of the region; it's not in the interests of the world."

The US voted against a cease-fire request at the larger UN General Assembly earlier this month and has previously blocked proposals in the UNSC, CNN reported.

Israel's strongest ally, the US, has denounced the Hamas attack that claimed more than 1,200 lives on October 7.

Nonetheless, senior US officials, like President Joe Biden, have urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take more significant actions to preserve innocent lives while waging his campaign against Hamas in reaction to the growing number of civilian deaths in Gaza as a result of Israel's response.

The conflict in Gaza escalated after the October 7 attack by Hamas, where about 2,500 terrorists breached the border into Israel from the Gaza Strip, leading to casualties and the seizure of hostages.

Israel has characterized its Gaza offensive as targeting Hamas' infrastructure to eliminate the entire terror group while making efforts to minimize civilian casualties.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Manipur Donor Tried To Save Infant, Shocked To See "Killed In Violence" Posts

A Manipur woman was shocked to see the name of a one-month-old infant, whom she knew, appear on social media posts as a "victim" of the ethnic violence that began on May 3.

Bisoya Loitongbam, 41, knew the infant as she had donated Rs 1 lakh for the treatment of Hirschsprung disease, a birth defect in which some nerve cells are missing in the large intestine.

The infant had been already under treatment at a hospital in the state capital Imphal for three weeks before May 3, the SOS note sent to prospective donors show. May 3 was the day clashes broke out between the hill-majority Kuki tribes and the valley-majority Meiteis.

"I got a call from the top district official on May 7 about a baby who needs to be admitted to a good hospital with advanced equipment. The next day I immediately sent Rs 1 lakh. I got to know from the doctors that the baby unfortunately died after surgery on May 9," Ms Loitongbam told NDTV on phone from Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow, where she is based.

She showed NDTV a screenshot of the money she sent using UPI for the infant's surgery.

Ms Loitongbam is the national lead of the massively successful '10BedICU' project, founded by former Aadhaar chief technology officer (CTO) Srikanth Nadhamuni. The project is being run in many states and also supported by state governments. The project started in March 2021 amid the Covid pandemic to create intensive care unit (ICU) infrastructure in rural and smaller government hospitals.

"I feel extremely sad. People have to use the death of a baby in their hate posts when it had nothing to do with the violence. I can't imagine what the doctors who treated the baby must be feeling," Ms Loitongbam said, adding she has been deeply involved in medical philanthropy and sourcing medicines for the weaker sections. "I wish all of us should now focus on how to resolve the humanitarian crisis," she added.

"Politicising Emotive Issues"

In a post on X, Ms Loitongbam asked people to stop "politicising emotive issues" and "destroying whatever humanity" is left.

The social media posts on the mass burial of 87 people from the Kuki-Zo tribes in Churachandpur district alleged the one-month-old infant was killed by mobs in Imphal valley. Of the 87 bodies, 41 were airlifted from morgues in Imphal months after the violence broke out.

The SOS note sent to prospective donors says the infant was first admitted to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal in the second week of April. His parents came from the hill district Churachandpur.

However, following the outbreak of violence on May 3, the parents took shelter in a relief camp set up by the 2nd Manipur Rifles. The next day, i.e. May 4, the relief camp officials rushed the baby to Mother's Care Children Hospital and Research Centre as he needed surgical intervention.

"The father of the baby... is just a farmer and has lost all their belongings during the sudden shifting from RIMS to 2nd MR (Manipur Rifles) relief camp. Under no circumstances he is able to pay for the treatment... There is a need for financial assistance to save the life of the baby," the SOS to the donors read. NDTV has seen the note.

Three days later, the District Commissioner - "a mother herself" - contacted Ms Loitongbam if she could help.

Hospital Warns Of Action

The management of Imphal-based Mother's Care Children Hospital and Research Centre, where the infant was treated, today told NDTV they are discussing taking criminal defamation action against those - especially social media influencers - who shared and circulated the fake information.

"The doctor was very upset. We all tried our best to save the baby. It is not right to use the death of a baby who suffered a serious congenital disease as a propaganda tool. We are doctors. All human lives are the same for us," a top officer of the hospital management said, requesting anonymity.

The officer said the hospital has kept the medical case files of the infant for further action against those who floated the malicious allegations.

After the infant died, the parents did not come to take the body due to the volatile situation, and so the hospital handed over the body to the authorities.

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No Outsiders Allowed In India's Warm-up Game Before SA Tests. Reason Is...

Shubman Gill was at his silken best during Indian team's intra-squad training game at the Tuks Oval on Thursday even though there wasn't an opportunity to get a glimpse of that enchanting sight. Coming in at No. 3, Gill helped himself to a hundred on the second day of the three-day match, playing all the bowlers with consummate ease, adding a dash of confidence in him ahead of the two-match Test series against South Africa beginning on December 26.

The Tuks Oval in Pretoria has been kept out of bounds for media even as the Indian team went ahead with their match simulation ahead of the Boxing Day Test. The venue is around 45-minute drive from the Supersport Park in Centurion where the first Test will be held.

Trying to keep their cards close to the chest, head coach Rahul Dravid and team management didn't want the match to be watched by outsiders as it can give a clearer idea about their strategy to be deployed against the Proteas.

Closed door trainings are a common feature among world's football team's (club and country) where media is only allowed to watch warm-ups and then asked to leave when coaches come to tactical training. But Indian cricket team over the years, has at times, uses the 'Closed Door' policy to keep media at bay for the entire duration.

Apart from Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal also got himself a half-century before being retired out in order to give others a chance to bat.

Meanwhile, Ruturaj Gaikwad's finger injury could possibly warrant a few more days of rest and the Maharashtra right-hander might not be in contention to be selected for the first Test.

Gaikwad had hurt his ring finger during second ODI and wasn't selected for the third match against SA on Thursday.

However, Gaikwad not being considered for selection will not be a big deal as far as Test matches are concerned since all slots in batting order are filled as of now.

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Honda To Recall More Than 100,000 Hybrid Vehicles Over Fire Risk

Honda Motor Co's American unit is recalling about 106,030 CR-V hybrid vehicles due to the risk of fire or injury in a crash caused by an overheated battery cable or short circuit, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said on Wednesday.

To address the issue, dealers will replace the battery cable, NHTSA added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Very Very Cool": Alia Reacts To Katrina's Merry Christmas Trailer

Katrina Kaif just dropped the trailer of her upcoming film Merry Christmas alongside Vijay Sethupathi and her friends from Bollywood cannot stop fawning over it. Alia Bhatt, who will be working with the actress in Farhan Akhtar's Jee le Zaraa, reacted to the trailer on Wednesday in the most adorable way. She shared the trailer on her Instagram story and wrote, "Okay this is very very cool. I am excited. Just must  Her reacted was also shared by Katrina on her feed.

Take a look at what Alia Bhatt had to say about Merry Christmas trailer:

Besides Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif's husband Vicky Kaushal and industry friend Varun Dhawan also reacted to the trailer. Vicky Kaushal wrote, "One of the best cut trailers. Can't wait for this this gem from the genius." Varun Dhawan, who has worked with director Sriram Raghavan in Badlapur wrote, "The twisted genius Sriram R is back."

Take a look at their reactions below:

The trailer of Merry Christmas was shared by Katrina Kaif on her Instagram feed alongside the caption which read, "Presenting the #MerryChristmasTrailer - Tamil. In cinemas on 12th Jan." Watch the trailer below:

Merry Christmas has been filmed in both Hindi and Tamil and marks Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi's first project together. Produced by Ramesh Taurani, Sanjay Routray, Jaya Taurani & Kewal Garg, and directed by Sriram Raghavan, Merry Christmas will be released on January 12.

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New Covid Strain Classified As "Variant Of Interest" By WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday classified the JN.1 coronavirus strain as a "variant of interest", but said it did not pose much threat to public health.

"Based on the available evidence, the additional global public health risk posed by JN.1 is currently evaluated as low," WHO said.

JN.1 was previously classified as a variant of interest as a part of its parent lineage BA.2.86.

The United Nations agency said current vaccines continue to protect against severe disease and death from JN.1 and other circulating variants of the COVID-19 virus.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) earlier this month said that the subvariant JN.1 makes up about an estimated 15% to 29% of cases in the United States as of Dec. 8, according to the agency's latest projections.

It added that currently there is no evidence that JN.1 presents an increased risk to public health relative to other currently circulating variants and an updated shot could keep Americans protected against the variant.

JN.1 was first detected in the US in September, according to the CDC.

Last week, China detected seven infections of the COVID subvariant.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Bulldozed...": Congress Cites Ex Army Chief's Book Over Agnipath Scheme

Citing a new book written by former Army chief General M M Naravane, the Congress alleged on Tuesday that the Agnipath scheme for short-term recruitment into the armed forces was "bulldozed" through, "without meaningful consultations" with those who were being directly impacted by such a "disastrous policy".

In a post on X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "The headlines are being hogged by the mass suspension of INDIA MPs that has reached 142 till now. But these headlines should not minimise the importance of other news." 

Former Chief of Army Staff General M M Naravane has disclosed in his memoir that the Agnipath or Agniveer scheme came as a total surprise to the Army, Air Force and Navy chiefs, Mr Ramesh said.

"He (Naravane) has now confirmed what had been commonly believed when the Agnipath/Agniveer scheme was bulldozed through without meaningful consultations with those who were being directly impacted by such a disastrous policy," he said.

At a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi weeks after becoming the Army chief, General Naravane sounded out in early 2020 about the "Tour of Duty" scheme for inducting soldiers for short tenures but months later, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) came up with a formulation with a much wider scope to include all the three services.

This is what General Naravane has written in his memoir, titled "Four Stars of Destiny", while elaborating on the birth of the Agnipath scheme -- considered India's most radical military recruitment policy.

After the formulation of the new scheme, General Naravane has said the Army was "taken by surprise by this turn of events, but for the Navy and Air Force, it came like a bolt from the blue".

"When I had first sounded out the prime minister about the Tour of Duty scheme, it was more on the lines of a short-service option at the soldier level, similar to the Short Service Commission scheme for officers that was already in vogue," the former Army chief has written.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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25 Manipur Schools Lose CBSE Affiliation Over Alleged Paperwork Fraud

Twenty-five schools in Manipur have lost their CBSE affiliation after the state government flagged to the central board that it had not given no-objection certificates to the schools.

The Central Board of Secondary Education's (CBSE) bylaws make it a legal requirement for state board schools to get a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the state government before applying for central board affiliation.

The CBSE SARAS 4.0 website no longer shows the 25 schools in Kangpokpi and Churachandpur as "affiliated". SARAS is short for 'School Affiliation Re-Engineered Automation System' that updates in real-time the affiliation status of over 28,900 schools across India.

"... CBSE has withdrawn affiliation which was recently granted to the schools... with immediate effect on the ground that the NOCs submitted by these schools have not been issued by the authorised functionaries of the state government..." Manipur school education joint secretary Anjali Chongtham said in a statement today.

The Manipur government in the statement also warned it will act against those responsible for violating state education and CBSE rules, or worse, for alleged fraud in submitting affiliation requests to the central board.

Education Minister Th Basanta told reporters in Imphal that the last time the Education Department gave any NOC was in May 2020.

After an initial investigation, the government has narrowed down to an education officer in Kangpokpi and a former education officer in Churachandpur for allegedly handing out NOCs without the knowledge of the state government, people familiar with the matter in the education department told NDTV today, requesting anonymity.

Eleven of the 25 schools got CBSE affiliation in the period between May 2020 and May 2023, and 14 received affiliation in the past six months. All the 25 schools are in the two hill districts Churachandpur and Kangpokpi, where violence began in May between the valley-majority Meiteis, who want the affirmative action Scheduled Tribes (ST) category, and the hill-majority Kuki tribes, who want a separate administration carved out from Manipur.

The change of the education board from state to central in the two hill districts became extremely controversial after it was seen as a soft attempt at formalising a new arrangement.

At least seven school principals in Kangpokpi district told NDTV on Monday their ZEO Lhingneikim Kipgen, who works under the education department, gave the NOCs. Calls to Ms Kipgen on Monday and Tuesday went unanswered.

The Churachandpur ZEO told NDTV on Monday his predecessor who left in June this year handled the NOC applications, while he took over in July and has no knowledge of the matter.

In Churachandpur, none of the four newly affiliated schools - before they lost affiliation today - had working phone numbers. One had only '0000' as the contact number. Not having working phones and having inconsistent details such as the phone number or address of the principal turning out to be of a relative are violations of the CBSE's bylaws for affiliation.

"The situation in Manipur after May 3 was such that functioning under the state board was becoming impossible. We have to go to Imphal for exam coordination and other state board work. How would that be possible?" the principal of a Kangpokpi school freshly affiliated with the CBSE told NDTV yesterday, requesting anonymity.

Another school principal in Kangpokpi said they have followed due process in applying for NOC, and showed the letters they have written to the education department seeking NOC for education board switch. Though this principal could not show the education department's response, he showed the NOC they have received from the zonal education officer. The principal declined to comment further when asked whether they knew it could violate rules to not have NOC from the education department under the state minister as the ZEO doesn't have the overall authority to hand out NOCs.

The Kangpokpi school principals, however, questioned what they called the authorities' "obtuse focus" on procedures when all that the students needed amid the ethnic clashes and other cataclysmic disruptions was academic continuity, whether CBSE or state board.

The hill district school principals cited difficulty in coordinating with the education department at a time when battle lines have been clearly drawn on the basis of ethnicity and deep mistrust. All the principals NDTV spoke to in Kangpokpi requested anonymity.

The state government is very clear, however, that action would be taken against schools including withdrawing their affiliation if any of them is again found not following due process.

"The principals are not thinking right. What are they implying? Short-circuit administrative processes amid the unfortunate outbreak of violence? No one said NOC won't be given. All of us work for students. Questionable and unethical decisions by some school administrations can't be allowed to harm the future of students," a senior officer in the education department who was among a small team that looked into the initial investigation in the CBSE affiliation matter told NDTV today, requesting anonymity.

Education department officials on Monday had told NDTV they would not rule out fraud and forgery since the state government had not given any NOC. They said they are constantly speaking to the zonal education officers of Churachandpur and Kangpokpi, but gave not further details.

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