The national capital woke up to near-zero visibility as dense fog shrouded Delhi and adjacent areas. With the mercury plummeting to 6 degrees Celsius, the cold wave persists, compelling the homeless to seek refuge in night shelters. Transport, including trains, faced delays due to low visibility. The India Meteorological Department forecasts "dense to very dense" fog until December 29. Changes in weather patterns are anticipated after December 30, offering relief from the chilling conditions. Amid the cold wave, Uttar Pradesh alters school timings, and a 15-day winter vacation is declared from December 31.

Foreign Minister S Jaishankar's Moscow visit brought forth a pivotal moment as Russian President Vladimir Putin extended a warm invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi: "We will be glad to see our friend in Russia." Putin expressed confidence in Modi's commitment to resolving the Ukraine crisis peacefully. Jaishankar echoed this sentiment, stating, "I know he is willing to do his utmost." The leaders discussed various issues, highlighting the growth in trade turnover between India and Russia, with Putin noting increased rates this year. Despite global challenges, India's diplomatic and economic ties with Russia remain resilient, as evident in the ongoing cooperation and strategic partnership.

Twenty-five Indian passengers, initially suspected of human trafficking, have been released in France after a judge cited a procedural lapse by border police. The Bobigny public prosecutor's office stated that the release was due to the head of Charles De Gaulle airport border police not timely referring the case. The passengers, seeking political asylum, were freed on Tuesday, with minors placed under child welfare services. Originally bound for Nicaragua, their plane was grounded in France following an anonymous tip. Charges were dropped as it was confirmed passengers boarded voluntarily. The remaining 276 landed back in India.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is reportedly set to abstain from attending the Ram temple consecration in Ayodhya on January 22. A senior Trinamool Congress leader asserted that neither Banerjee nor any representative from the West Bengal government or the party would be present, emphasizing the party's commitment to avoiding the amalgamation of politics and religion. The decision aligns with the Communist Party of India (Marxist)'s stance, while the event's impact remains divisive within the opposition. The ceremony has drawn varied responses, with some leaders expressing willingness to attend if invited.

NCP President Sharad Pawar revealed on Wednesday that he hasn't received an invitation to the upcoming Ram temple inauguration in Ayodhya. Expressing uncertainty about BJP's motives, Pawar questioned if the party was using the event for political or commercial gains. Despite this, Pawar expressed happiness over the temple's construction, highlighting the contributions made by many. When asked about his non-invitation, Pawar responded negatively, citing his private visits to places of faith. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to conduct a roadshow in Ayodhya on December 30 ahead of the temple's consecration on January 22.

The central government has taken a firm stance against fraudulent loan apps, directing social media and online platforms not to host their advertisements. Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar emphasized the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology's advisory, stating that carrying ads for these apps misleads and exploits users. The move aims to ensure a safe and trusted internet environment, aligning with evolving jurisprudence. The Minister highlighted the government's commitment to enforcing IT rules that prohibit 11 areas of content, emphasizing the crackdown on misleading ads to protect online users.

Russia has officially endorsed India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). During talks with Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar in Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov voiced support for India's aspirations. Lavrov also commended India's adept handling of contentious issues at the G20 Summit, labeling it a "true triumph" of Indian foreign policy. India, a long-time advocate for UNSC reform, seeks permanent membership in alignment with evolving global realities. The G20 Summit hosted by India earlier this year received acclaim for its inclusive and diplomatic approach on the Ukraine issue.

Shah Rukh Khan's latest release, 'Dunki,' remains unstoppable at the box office, earning ₹283 crore globally in just six days. Despite mixed reviews, the film entered the ₹200 crore club by Monday and is expected to join the ₹300 crore club soon. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, 'Dunki' explores themes of friendships, borders, and nostalgia. Shah Rukh Khan, during an Ask SRK session, expressed his preference for 'Dunki' over his previous releases. The film faces competition from Prabhas-starrer 'Salaar,' which has grossed over ₹400 crore globally within three days.

In the 2nd day the boxing test match against South Africa,Indian Bowlers faced a formidable challenge. Despite an impressive showing by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, South Africa took a slender 11 run lead on day 2 of the first Test in Centurion. Bumrah (2/63) removed Tony de Zorzi and Keegan Petersen while Siraj (2/63) accounted for Aiden Markram and David Bedingham. However, captain Dean Elgar batted brilliantly for his unbeaten 140 to lead South Africa's reply. Resuming from 208/8, India were bowled out for 245 with KL Rahul scoring 101 on day 1. Elgar shared crucial partnerships with de Zorzi and Bedingham as the Proteas reached 256/5 at stumps. The match is evenly poised heading into day 3 with the South African lower order looking to extend the lead further.

The Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, criticizes the impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict, stating it is "greater than a disaster" and comparing it to the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. He condemns Israeli strikes, claiming the current situation is the "ugliest" for Palestinians. Abbas criticizes the US for supporting Israel and suggests a UN resolution for an immediate ceasefire. Despite Israeli statements, Abbas emphasizes the need for a Palestinian state post-war. The death toll rises, with Abbas questioning the logic of Israeli military actions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserts the war is ongoing, while his senior adviser Mark Regev states Hamas "must be destroyed."