Morning Digest | Two die in firing near Army camp in J&K; Defence sources say China is expanding model villages in strategic areas, and more
The Hindu
Here’s a select list of stories to read before you start your day
China expanding model villages along LAC, including new villages facing strategic Siliguri corridor
China is expanding its chain of model villages or Xiaokang (moderately prosperous) villages close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC), opposite Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, including in the Chumbi valley which faces the strategically crucial Siliguri corridor, according to defence sources. This is in addition to continuing its infrastructure development and additional deployments along the LAC.
Two civilians killed in firing incident outside Army camp in Rajouri
Two civilians were killed in a “firing incident” outside an Army camp in the Pir Panjal Valley’s Rajouri district on December 16. However, locals were demanding a probe into the incident. “In an early morning firing incident by unidentified terrorists at Rajouri near Military Hospital, there has been fatal casualty of two individuals. The police, security forces and civil administration officials are on the site,” the Army said in a tweet.
‘Kashi Tamil Sangamam’ will unite the country and connect different languages, says Home Minister Amit Shah
‘Kashi Tamil Sangamam’ is an attempt to bring a cultural renaissance that will unite the country and connect different languages, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Friday. He was addressing the closing ceremony of the 30-day event, during which nearly 2,500 visitors from Tamil Nadu arrived in Varanasi
Coordinated effort to contain Chinese digital loan apps: Finance Minister
Russia launches a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine amid ongoing diplomatic talks to resolve the four-year conflict.
Israeli defence firm IWI plans to supply 40,000 LMGs to India next year, enhancing local production and collaboration.
Pakistan's Punjab Province foils a major terror plot, arresting 24 terrorists and seizing explosives during extensive operations.
Iranian authorities file a criminal case against marathon organizers for allowing women to compete without hijabs, amid rising enforcement calls.
Indian student Sahaja Reddy Udumala dies from severe injuries in a house fire while pursuing her Master’s in Albany, NY.
U.K. sanctions British Sikh businessman Gurpreet Singh Rehal for alleged ties to pro-Khalistan terrorism, freezing his assets and disqualifying him as a director.
New York woman Stacey Taylor charged with smuggling Indian nationals into the U.S. faces severe legal consequences.
Supreme Court to review the constitutionality of Trump's birthright citizenship order impacting children of undocumented immigrants.
A U.S. deportation flight carrying 172 Venezuelan migrants lands in Caracas amidst heightened military tensions and ongoing drug trafficking claims.
FIFA awards President Trump a peace prize, marking a significant shift from its traditional sports focus during the 2026 World Cup draw.
PM Modi emphasizes the enduring India-Russia friendship, highlighting energy ties and new collaborations during Putin's visit.
German lawmakers approve a plan to boost military recruitment without reinstating conscription amid rising security concerns from Russia.
Watch: Putin visit - Can India walk the balance with the West?