Two Muslim sculptors from West Bengal have created idols of Lord Ram that will be installed in the upcoming Ram Mandir temple complex in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. Mohammed Jamaluddin and his son Bittu, sculptors from North 24 Parganas district, were commissioned to make the statues after their work was discovered online. Despite the higher cost of fiber statues, Jamaluddin said their durability makes them preferable for outdoor installations. He takes pride in creating Hindu idols and cherishes the cultural harmony it represents. “In times of communalism, we all have to stay together,” he said. The life-sized statues took a team of 30-35 workers and 1-1.5 months to create. They will be transported to Ayodhya over the next 45 days.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav in his inaugural move after assuming office, has issued a ban on the open sale of meat and eggs. Following guidelines from the Government of India on food safety, CM Yadav emphasized strict adherence to these rules during a press conference in Bhopal. The ban, effective from December 15 to 31, will be enforced through a collaborative campaign involving the food department, police, and local urban bodies. Additionally, Yadav introduced directives on regulating loudspeakers at religious places and upgrading government colleges to 'PM Colleges of Excellence' with modern amenities.

In a surprising turn, India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry, led by junior minister Som Parkash, announced a halt in considering tax reductions on imported electric vehicles, potentially derailing Tesla's market entry. The government, committed to its "Make-in-India" initiative, emphasized promoting domestic and foreign investment in the electric vehicle sector. This unexpected move follows recent talks between Tesla and India, where both sides were nearing an agreement involving car sales starting next year and a proposed factory within two years. The development raises uncertainties about the future of Tesla's expansion plans in India.

A Turkish opposition MP, Hasan Bitmez, died in the hospital Wednesday after suffering a heart attack during a parliamentary speech condemning Israel's actions in Gaza. Bitmez, 54, of the Saadet Party, had accused Turkey's ruling AK Party of complicity in Israeli violence, shouting "You have the blood of Palestinians on your hands!" before suddenly collapsing at the podium. An angiography showed main heart arteries blocked. Bitmez's impassioned speech came amid ongoing Turkish criticism of Israel under President Erdogan, who called Israel a "terror state" and said Hamas is not a terrorist group. The speech reflected persisting divisions over Middle East policy.

Elon Musk intends to launch a university, K-12 school, and Montessori in Austin, Texas, as per recent tax filings for his charity, "The Foundation." With an initial donation exceeding $100 million, Musk's blueprint includes a STEM-focused K-12 school and eventual expansion into a university, seeking accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. This move marks Musk's latest venture in education, following his establishment of a small school in Los Angeles. The initiative aligns with Musk's broader vision of transforming Central Texas, where he has recently developed the town of Snailbrook.

The UK reports a surge in norovirus cases, with almost 1,500 confirmed infections, marking a 60% increase from the same period last year. The Royal College of Emergency Medicine Scotland warns of heightened risks of staff sickness, straining hospital resources. Commonly known as the "winter vomiting bug," norovirus causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Health experts express concerns about the rising numbers of norovirus and other winter illnesses as the Christmas season approaches. Norovirus is highly contagious, spreading easily through contact, and there is no specific vaccine for it. Authorities emphasize hygiene practices to curb the virus's transmission.

The Allahabad High Court has granted approval for the survey of the Shahi Idgah complex adjacent to the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. A court-monitored three-member team of advocate commissioners will conduct the survey, with modalities to be decided on December 18 during the court's resumed hearing. The decision follows a demand by the Hindu side, asserting that the Idgah mosque exhibits signs of a Hindu temple. The court's approval marks a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings involving the disputed land.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reiterated his commitment to the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, countering Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely's recent rejection of the plan. Sunak expressed concern over the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the need for a resolution. While acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense, Sunak emphasized the importance of protecting civilians. Hotovely, in an interview with Sky News, categorically dismissed the possibility of a two-state solution, stating that Palestinians never intended to have a state alongside Israel. The divergence in positions highlights the complexity of the Middle East peace process.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reassured citizens regarding the £38,700 minimum income requirement for British citizens bringing in foreign family members. Facing concerns that the rule could separate families, Sunak stated during Prime Minister's Questions that the government is reconsidering its initial stance on reapplications and is exploring "transitional arrangements" for affected individuals. Labour MP Sir Stephen Timms raised concerns about disrupted marriage plans and families needing visa extensions. Sunak emphasized the need for financial support but assured that fair transitional measures would be announced shortly. Home Secretary James Cleverly and immigration minister Tom Pursglove echoed these sentiments.

Air India takes a leap towards becoming a world-class carrier with the reveal of its revamped flight attendant and pilot uniforms. Crafted by renowned Indian couturier Manish Malhotra, the attire symbolizes a fusion of rich Indian heritage and contemporary elegance. The uniforms, featuring a vibrant color palette inspired by India's culture, will be phased in over the coming months, making their debut on Air India's first Airbus A350-900 flights. CEO Campbell Wilson anticipates the uniforms scripting an exciting new chapter, capturing the essence of Air India's refreshed identity and commitment to setting industry benchmarks.