Three Special Operations Group (SOG) jawans, part of an anti-Maoist force, sustained injuries in a bomb blast during a combing operation on the Boudh-Kandhamal border in Odisha. Boudh Superintendent of Police, Raj Prasad, reported the explosion in the Batepanga forest, emphasizing the jawans' minor injuries. This incident follows a previous one on December 24, where two SOG jawans were critically injured by an improvised explosive device (IED) allegedly planted by Maoists in Kandhamal district. The region has witnessed heightened tensions, with security forces engaging Maoists in fire exchanges during combing operations.

Heavy rainfall has caused widespread flooding across England, forcing the evacuation of over 1,000 properties. The River Thames overflowed in Henley-on-Thames, leaving riverside homes under water. Photos show floodwaters breaching houses in the Oxfordshire town. The Environment Agency has over 270 flood warnings in place amid the deluge. Trains have also faced disruption, with Great Western Railway closing several lines due to flooding. In Hackney Wick, London, a canal burst its banks overnight, prompting firefighters to evacuate around 50 residents as 10 acres flooded. The Environment Agency warns flood risks remain high, as soaked ground cannot absorb more rain. Forecasters say showers may continue in southern England. The severe weather follows recent storms which left the ground saturated.

Mayor Sadiq Khan is considering the implementation of a free WiFi network across London, aiming to improve internet access for residents, tourists, and remote workers. The initiative, backed by a £20,000 allocation, aims to provide seamless connectivity, aiding navigation, business transactions, and alleviating roaming costs for international visitors. Key stakeholders, including the Wireless Broadband Alliance and mobile network operators, will be consulted. Khan envisions an enhanced digital experience for all in the vibrant capital, aligning with his efforts to bolster connectivity, including high-speed mobile coverage in the London transport network. Recommendations are anticipated in the coming year.

A floating bar and restaurant boat owned by Bar & Co sank in the River Thames off Temple Pier on Thursday afternoon. The vessel sank amid heavy rainfall that has flooded parts of London. An alarm was raised around 12:30pm after the boat began taking on water. Rescue crews including the RNLI, police, and fire brigade rushed to the scene. All people on board the party boat were safely accounted for. No injuries were reported. The boat's owner stated the sinking was likely due to the severe weather conditions. A Met Office yellow warning for heavy rain was in effect at the time. The Port of London Authority has advised ships to pass the area with extreme caution due to the sunken vessel.

One of the UK's largest assessment boards, Edexcel, has announced plans for GCSE English exams to be conducted digitally starting in 2025. Pupils will have the option to type their answers, aiming to ease editing and simplify marking. While praised for increased accessibility, concerns arise about potential loss of handwriting skills. Experts stress the importance of a "hybrid world" for literacy skills, including writing by hand, typing, and texting. Headteachers caution against widening the disadvantage gap, emphasizing the need for clear guidance and resources. The move aligns with a broader trend of exam boards transitioning towards digital assessments.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences to Japan's Prime Minister Kishida after a 7.6-magnitude earthquake claimed over 90 lives on January 1. PM Modi's letter conveyed India's solidarity and readiness to provide assistance, emphasizing the special strategic partnership with Tokyo. The earthquake, the strongest in over a century, struck near the Noto Peninsula, leaving more than 240 missing and 33,000 evacuated. Japan increased Self-Defence forces for rescue operations. PM Modi assured support, highlighting the strong bond between the two nations.

In a swift response to an attempted hijacking, India's elite marine commandos have boarded the Liberian ship MV Lila Norfolk in the North Arabian Sea. The Indian Navy's Mission Deployed warship, INS Chennai, intercepted the vessel on January 5 after it reported armed assailants. The commandos have begun the 'sanitisation' process, ensuring the safety of the ship and its Indian crew. Continuous surveillance, using Maritime Patrol Aircraft and helicopters, facilitated the operation. The Navy's proactive approach highlights its dedication to maritime security, swiftly neutralizing the threat and showcasing its preparedness in the face of potential security challenges.            

Recent court documents disclose Virginia Giuffre's assertion that Bill Clinton allegedly pressured Vanity Fair to cancel a story on Jeffrey Epstein. Giuffre claimed in a 2011 email that Clinton warned against publishing sex-trafficking articles about Epstein, referring to him as a "good friend." Vanity Fair denies this. The documents, part of Giuffre's 2015 defamation case against Ghislaine Maxwell, unveil insights into Epstein's scandal. Clinton's spokesperson denies awareness of Epstein's crimes, while Maxwell's legal focus centers on case dismissal. The released files illuminate Epstein's influence, including preventing an article on abuse claims in 2003.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant unveils a plan suggesting Israel retains security control over Gaza after defeating Hamas. The proposal envisions day-to-day administration by a Palestinian body, guided by Israel, while the US, EU, and regional partners oversee reconstruction. Gallant's conditions include freeing hostages and dismantling Hamas capabilities. Notably different from the US-supported idea of the Palestinian Authority taking control, Israel reserves operational rights within Gaza but ensures no civilian presence post-war objectives. Talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expected to address the plan and humanitarian concerns in the region.

Carrefour, a major supermarket chain spanning France, Spain, Italy, and Belgium, is refusing to sell PepsiCo products, including Pepsi, 7up, Cheetos, and Lay's crisps, in over 9,000 stores. The move is attributed to what Carrefour deems "unacceptable price increases" by PepsiCo. This escalation follows the broader trend of strained relations between European supermarkets and suppliers amid rising costs post-Russia's war with Ukraine. Grocery inflation, particularly pronounced in France, has led to attempts to negotiate with brands. PepsiCo, raising its 2023 profit forecast thrice, pledges ongoing discussions with Carrefour to ensure product availability.