Author: Virgin News

Three Terror Suspects Killed. Members of a Pakistan-backed terror group were gunned down in a confrontation with police in Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh, early on Monday, December 23, 2024. The suspects were reportedly involved in a grenade attack earlier this month at a police checkpoint in Gurdaspur, Punjab. This successful operation marks a significant step in curbing the activities of the Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) in the region, according to authorities. The men who were killed have been identified as Gurvinder Singh, aged 25, Virender Singh (alias Ravi), aged 23, and Jaspreet Singh (alias Pratap Singh), aged 18, all from the…

India celebrates National Farmers’ Day on 23rd December to honour the invaluable contributions of farmers, who are the backbone of the nation. This day marks the birth anniversary of Shri Chaudhary Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister, who is remembered for his deep understanding of rural issues and his lifelong commitment to advocating for farmers’ welfare. Known as the “Annadatas” (providers of food), farmers play a critical role in ensuring food security, supporting rural economies, and contributing to the nation’s progress. In recognition of their pivotal role, the Government of India has introduced a series of transformative initiatives aimed at…

On December 22, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the prestigious Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, Kuwait’s highest national award, from His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait. The significant event, marking the 43rd anniversary of the last visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait, was also attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the Prime Minister of Kuwait. The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, instituted in 1974, is bestowed upon select global leaders who have made remarkable contributions to fostering international relations and peace. PM Modi’s recognition underscores the deepening ties between India and…

Om Prakash Chautala, the former Chief Minister of Haryana, was cremated with full state honours on Saturday, December 21, 2024, in his native village of Teja Khera, located in Sirsa district. The 89-year-old leader, who passed away the previous day in Gurugram, was a prominent figure in Haryana politics, having served as the Chief Minister of the state five times. The state funeral was attended by numerous political leaders from various parties who gathered to pay their final respects. Among those present were Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, and Shiromani…

Telugu actor Allu Arjun has spoken out against allegations regarding his behaviour in the aftermath of a tragic stampede at Sandhya 70 MM cinema hall. Addressing the media alongside his father, producer Allu Aravind, and legal counsel, the actor described the discussion in the Telangana Legislative Assembly as an attempt at “character assassination,” though he refrained from naming any individual or institution. The incident in question, which occurred during a promotional event for the highly anticipated film Pushpa 2, resulted in the death of a 35-year-old woman and left her eight-year-old son critically injured. Speaking at a press conference in…

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council, during its 55th meeting chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, postponed the much-awaited review of GST rates on life and health insurance policies. The decision was deferred to allow further deliberations, as some members requested additional discussions before finalizing the tax rates. The council has entrusted a Group of Ministers (GoM), led by Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, with re-examining the insurance tax rates. The GoM will revisit the matter and present its findings and recommendations at a subsequent council meeting. Additionally, proposals for rate rationalization on approximately 150 items were…

Nagpur, December 21, 2024:New Maharashtra Cabinet: Maharashtra’s political landscape witnessed a significant reshuffle as Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, allocated portfolios among the 39-member cabinet. The announcement came on the final day of the Winter Session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, signalling a united front among the Mahayuti alliance partners. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis retained key portfolios, including Home, Law and Judiciary, and Energy (excluding renewable energy). His deputies, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, were entrusted with Urban Development and Finance and Planning, respectively, solidifying their control over pivotal sectors. Maharashtra…

Kuwait City: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the Indian diaspora at the “Hala Modi” event in Kuwait resonated with a message of unity, pride, and shared achievements. Speaking to a packed audience of Indian expatriates, the Prime Minister highlighted the indelible connection between India and Kuwait, celebrating the vibrant contributions of the Indian community in fostering ties between the two nations. “Mini Hindustan in Kuwait”: A Cultural Tapestry Addressing the audience shortly after his arrival, PM Modi expressed his admiration for the cultural diversity of the Indian diaspora. “It feels like a mini Hindustan has sprung up here,” he…

Kazan, Russia — December 21, 2024 — A wave of drone attacks in Kazan targeted the city in Russia’s Tatarstan region, leaving significant destruction in its wake and raising tensions in the area. The attack, which occurred early this morning, struck key infrastructure, causing widespread disruption and sparking concerns about the escalating use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern conflict. Chronology of Drone Attacks in Kazan on Residential Buildings, Russia Residents of Kazan were jolted awake by the sound of explosions as drones hit industrial facilities and communication hubs in the city. Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple blasts around 4:00…

December 21, 2024 The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council is set to meet on Saturday, December 21, 2024, to deliberate on significant tax changes, including reductions on life and health insurance premiums. This 55th Council meeting, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, will also address tax hikes on luxury items such as high-end wristwatches, shoes, and apparel. Additionally, a new 35% tax slab for sin goods is on the agenda, alongside the possibility of bringing Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) under the GST framework. GST Council: Proposed Tax Revisions on Insurance and Delivery Platforms Among the critical discussions, the…