New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani criticised the US capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, calling it an act of war and a breach of international law. He warned the move could escalate tensions and impact Venezuelans living in New York.

Tamil Nadu government announced a special Pongal bonus for C and D category employees, teachers, and pensioners. Staff will receive up to ₹3,000, while pensioners and family pensioners will get ₹1,000, aiding festive celebrations.

A 19-year-old college student in Himachal Pradesh died while undergoing treatment after alleged ragging and sexual harassment. Following her father’s complaint, police booked a professor and three senior students. Authorities have launched a detailed probe into the incident.

The BJP alleged Rahul Gandhi has connections with an “anti‑India” US lobby, highlighting his 2024 meeting with lawmaker Janice Schakowsky and a note from New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Eight US lawmakers also urged a fair trial for Umar Khalid

After months of subdued activity, Kashmir witnessed a surge in tourists on New Year’s Eve. Fresh snowfall in Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam boosted hotel occupancy, bringing cheer to the region’s tourism industry and local businesses.

Kerala’s Special Investigation Team told a court that gold stolen from the Sabarimala temple is far more than initially assessed. Fresh findings show additional gold missing from temple structures, while only a small portion has been recovered so far.

From February 1, India ends the GST compensation cess and introduces higher excise duties on cigarettes, pan masala, and tobacco products. Shares of ITC and Godfrey Phillips dropped as the market reacts to increased taxes and potential price hikes.

The Enforcement Directorate attached a London property near Buckingham Palace worth Rs 150 crore in a bank fraud case involving S Kumars Nationwide Ltd. Ex-CMD Nitin Kasliwal faces allegations of defrauding multiple banks.

In his New Year’s Eve speech, Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s goal of reunifying with Taiwan, describing it as “unstoppable.” His remarks came after recent military drills near Taiwan, raising international concern and prompting a cautious response from Taipei.

Home Minister G. Parameshwara said Karnataka police will escort heavily intoxicated New Year’s Eve partygoers home or to rest centres until sober. Fifteen rest points are set up across cities to ensure safety and prevent accidents.