In a shocking incident in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal, a mob of 800-1,000 people attacked officials from the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Reserve Police Force. The officials were conducting searches related to an alleged Public Distribution Scam involving Trinamool Congress leader Sahajahan Sheikh. The agency revealed an "intention to cause death," with three officials severely injured, robbed of belongings, and vehicles damaged. The Trinamool Congress labeled it a "BJP conspiracy," while the BJP condemned the state government, calling it a "threat to national security."

Five days after a powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck central Japan on New Year's Day, the death toll has risen to 98, with 211 individuals still unaccounted for in the Ishikawa region. Rescue efforts have shifted to recovery, hindered by adverse weather conditions and damaged infrastructure. The quake caused widespread destruction, sinking fishing boats, triggering tsunami waves, and igniting fires that engulfed hundreds of structures. Over 450 people are reported injured, with power and water outages affecting thousands. Authorities are grappling with challenges in isolated villages, emphasizing ongoing rescue operations. Japan, with a history of earthquakes, mourns another tragic disaster.

Renowned actor Christian Oliver, celebrated for roles in "Speed Racer" and "Valkyrie," lost his life at 51 in a devastating plane crash off a Caribbean island. Oliver, along with his daughters Madita, 12, and Annik, 10, perished when their small aircraft crashed into the ocean on its way to St Lucia. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from J.F. Mitchell Airport in Bequia. Authorities report that all four bodies, including pilot Robert Sachs, have been recovered. Investigations are ongoing as the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented actor and his two young daughters.            

India's Aditya L1, the first space-based solar observatory, approaches its final orbit on Saturday in a landmark mission led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Speaking to HT Digital, former ISRO scientist Manish Purohit detailed the challenges faced during the spacecraft's 127-day journey, emphasizing the precision needed in the upcoming motor firing. Aditya L1's successful placement in the complex halo orbit at the Lagrangian point 1 promises crucial insights into space weather, offering an early warning system for high-energy solar events and bolstering India's space exploration prowess.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a 'cold day' to 'severe cold day' warning for Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Rajasthan for the next two days. Dense to very dense fog expected in Northwest India, gradually diminishing. Minimum temperatures range from 6 to 10 degrees Celsius in significant regions, aiding informed decision-making. Some areas report temperatures above normal, while West Rajasthan experiences below-normal temperatures. Persistent dense fog in isolated pockets until January 7 in specific regions. Furthermore, IMD forecasts light to moderate rainfall in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Lakshadweep over the next 4-5 days. Residents urged to stay informed about prevailing weather conditions.

Karnataka now requires COVID tests for individuals with flu or respiratory symptoms, as announced by State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu. The state maintains a 3.82% positivity rate, prompting the decision. Private and government hospitals are instructed to conduct tests for Influenza Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) patients. Earlier, only one in 20 such cases underwent testing. The minister anticipates a decline in COVID cases next week and urges vigilance amid the rise in sub-variant JN.1 cases. The World Health Organization deems JN.1 a "variant of interest" with low global health risk.

The US State Department is offering rewards up to $10 million for information leading to the disruption of Hamas's financial networks. The bounty targets five Hamas financiers based in Sudan, Turkey, and Qatar who have funneled tens of millions to the militant group. They were previously designated as global terrorists by the US. The rewards aim to cut off revenue streams funding Hamas's violent actions against Israel. Over 1,200 Israelis and 22,600 Gazans have died in recent clashes. Any details on Hamas donors, front companies, or financial schemes would qualify for payouts. It follows four rounds of US sanctions on Hamas since fighting escalated in October.

13-year-old Willis Gibson of Oklahoma claims a groundbreaking achievement as the first person to conquer Nintendo's Tetris, 34 years post-release. His YouTube video captures the moment he reaches level 157, causing the game to crash, stunning the gaming community. In just 38 minutes, Willis defies the believed limit of level 29. Tetris, a classic since 1984, gained immense popularity on NES and Game Boy. Willis, aka Blue Scuti, not only beats the game but also sets overall score and three Tetris world records. The teenage prodigy's accomplishment sparks a wave of gaming enthusiasts attempting to break his records.

Glynis Johns, acclaimed for her iconic role as Mrs. Banks in 'Mary Poppins,' dies at 100. The British actress, spanning a nine-decade career in film, TV, and stage, left a lasting impact. Known for wit and performances, she starred in classics like 'The Sundowners' and originated 'A Little Night Music' role. Johns' vibrant portrayal of a feminist character in 'Mary Poppins' remains cherished. Manager Mitch Clem praises her grace, class, and truth, saying she 'powered her way through life.' The entertainment world mourns the loss of a talented, influential star who celebrated her centenary last October.

The Arabian Sea region experienced a shake as a magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck on Friday at 09:52 pm, reported the National Center for Seismology. The quake, occurring at a depth of 10 kilometers, sent ripples through the area. The National Center for Seismology shared details on X, stating the earthquake's magnitude, date, time, and coordinates (Lat: 20.18, Long: 72.24). While the tremor sparked attention, no immediate reports of damage or casualties have emerged. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of seismic activities in the region.