India’s government significantly raised the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for copra to ₹11,582 per quintal (milling) and ₹12,100 per quintal (ball) for the 2025 marketing season. This move aims to improve farmer incomes, boost copra production, and ensure food security. Farmers can choose to sell to government agencies at the MSP or in the open market.
The Bombay High Court dismissed Lalit Modi’s petition seeking BCCI’s financial protection against a ₹10.65 crore penalty imposed by the Enforcement Directorate. The court deemed the petition frivolous and ordered Modi to pay ₹1 lakh to a hospital. The court’s decision highlighted that the BCCI isn’t obligated to indemnify Modi due to its non-‘State’ status under Article 12 of the Constitution.
The Bombay High Court dismissed Lalit Modi’s petition seeking BCCI’s financial protection against a ₹10.65 crore penalty imposed by the Enforcement Directorate. The court deemed the petition frivolous and ordered Modi to pay ₹1 lakh to a hospital. The court’s decision highlighted that the BCCI isn’t obligated to indemnify Modi due to its non-‘State’ status under Article 12 of the Constitution.
Widespread train delays and cancellations hit Sydney on December 21, 2024, due to rail union strikes amid a wage dispute with the government. The action caused significant disruption to holiday travel, impacting major events and raising concerns about New Year’s Eve celebrations. The government criticized the strikes, while the union defended its actions, highlighting safety concerns. The dispute’s economic and social impacts are substantial, with potential losses for tourism and businesses.
A Christmas market attack in Magdeburg, Germany, killed at least two and injured dozens. The suspect, a Saudi Arabian refugee, has sparked outrage among far-right figures who are using the incident to push anti-immigration agendas. International figures, including Elon Musk, have also commented, adding to the political fallout.
The Inter-American Court of Human Rights ruled against El Salvador for denying a woman, Beatriz, a life-saving abortion in 2013. The court found El Salvador responsible for violating Beatriz’s rights and ordered compensation and guideline creation for medical and judicial personnel. The case highlights the severe restrictions on abortion in El Salvador, causing international debate on reproductive rights.
Elon Musk initially criticized Speaker Mike Johnson’s plan to avert a government shutdown but later praised the final bill’s efficiency. The House narrowly avoided a shutdown by passing a stopgap funding measure. Musk’s comments highlight the complexities of political negotiations and the role of social media in shaping public opinion.
The United States has lifted a $10 million bounty on Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), following unprecedented talks between American diplomats and HTS. This decision aims to facilitate discussions on counter-terrorism efforts, missing US citizens, and regional stability, while navigating complex relations with Turkey and the Syrian Kurds.
Over 2,200 cases of violence against religious minorities have been reported in Bangladesh, prompting India to express serious concerns. Similar incidents in Pakistan further highlight the need for stronger protection measures. Tensions between India and Bangladesh have escalated due to these issues, demanding diplomatic intervention for peace and reconciliation.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kuwait focuses on strengthening bilateral ties. Discussions will cover economic cooperation, energy security, defense, and people-to-people contact. The ‘Hala Modi’ event will engage the Indian diaspora. This visit signifies the importance of India-Kuwait relations in a time of global uncertainty.
