Breaking News Updates: DGGI arrests businessman Piyush Jain; recovers Rs 10 crores cash

Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) has arrested businessman Piyush Jain. According to official sources, DGGI Ahmedabad has recovered Rs 10 crores more cash from the factory and residence of perfume businessman Piyush Jain, promotor of Odochem Industries of Kannauj district in Uttar Pradesh. 

"Digvijaya Singh made a very irresponsible statement. Now that he doesn't have any major role in Congress party's decision making, he's saying all this to be in the limelight. It's utter rubbish", Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said. 

The Centre will constitute a five-member committee to look into the withdrawal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from Nagaland, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio informed on Sunday. The announcement comes after Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level meeting on December 23 to discuss the present scenario in Nagaland in the aftermath of the civilian killings. The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Yanthungo Patton, Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland and T. R. Zeliang, leader of the Naga People's Front.

According to the Nagaland CM, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) additional secretary (North East) will head the committee on AFSPA. The panel will also comprise Nagaland Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP). Additional members of the committee will include IGAR (N) and a representative of the CRPF.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday, December 26, stressed the need to maintain nuclear deterrence and said India looks forward to manufacturing BrahMos missiles to ensure no enemy country dare to cast an evil eye on it. Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony of Defence Technologies & Test Centre and BrahMos Manufacturing Centre in Lucknow, Rajnath Singh said the aim to manufacture missiles is not to attack anyone but to keep the country safe. 

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister said, "The BrahMos missile and other weapons we are manufacturing are not to attack any other country. It has never been the character of India to attack any other country or grab even an inch of land of any country".

"At first, there was Corona, then Delta and other variants. It was a challenge for a backward state like Jharkhand but we succeeded in fighting the pandemic. We are running nearly 250 mobile vaccination vehicles... and are ready for Omicron variant also", said Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren.

The Indian Army informed that on Dec 25, approximately 1027 tourists who had been stuck in the upper reaches of East Sikkim near the China Border at Nathu La following heavy snow were rescued by Army. 

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited and reviewed the development of the High-Speed Bullet Train Mumbai-Ahmedabad project in Surat. 

Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad on Sunday said that he is a 24-carat Congressman but those questioning are of 18 carats. Replying to Republic Media Network’s question, Azad said, "I am a Congressman, who told you I am not a Congressman. Maybe 18 carats must be questioning the 14 carats.” It is pertinent to mention that Ghulam Nabi Azad has been part of the G23 group which openly revolted against the leadership of Congress demanding reforms.

"Till now, over 9 cr COVID19 vaccine doses have been administered in the State. Bihar is among the top 5 states in terms of vaccination. If some people incl healthcare workers are still unvaccinated, then, we'll conduct targeted vaccination drives", informed Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey. 

According to Prime Minister's Office, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Kanpur, UP on Dec 28 to address the convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, and inaugurate the completed section of the Kanpur Metro Rail Project and the Bina-Panki Multiproduct Pipeline Project. 

Indian Army’s Engineer-in-Chief Lieutenant General Harpal Singh was conferred with the 'Eminent Engineering Personality Award' by the Institution of Engineers (India) for his contributions in the field of engineering in the Defence Forces and Border Roads Organisation.

"Due to the State imposed night curfew from 9 pm-6 am, Sai Baba Temple will be closed for devotees during the night hours. The regular early morning and night 'aartis' will also be closed for devotees", informed the Temple board. 

"Today, I want to say that we're going win more than 300 seats in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly election 2022. Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party are casteist parties. While, Modi Ji and Yogi Ji stand for 'Sabka saath, Sabka vikas'", said Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Orai, Jalaun.

On Sunday, the Ministry of Defence in its release said that Indian Naval Ship Kesari reached entered Port of Maputo, Mozambique as part of the ongoing 'Mission SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region). Completing yet another deployment undertaken by Indian Navy INS Kesari reached Mozambique on December 25 to support the country cope with the ongoing drought and concurrent challenges of the pandemic. According to the Navy, this is the eighth such deployment as part of the Mission Sagar.

Under Mission SAGAR, INS Kesari has now entered Port of Maputo, Mozambique carrying 500 Tons of food aid. The Ministry of Defence in its release said that the deployment comes as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Security And Growth for All in the Region which is conducted in close coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, and other agencies of the Government of India.

In yet another heinous act of oppression against women in Pakistan, the dead body of a kidnapped Pakistani-American woman was discovered in Lakki Marwat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday (Dec. 25). The deceased has been identified as Wajiha Swati, who had come to Pakistan from England on October 16 to settle property disputes with her ex-husband, Rizwan Habib. During the police interrogation, Habib confessed to killing Swati, ANI reported citing Geo News.  

As per the report, the American woman was murdered the day she landed in Rawalpindi. Based on her son's report, the Morgah Police Station in Rawalpindi opened an investigation into her kidnapping. Meanwhile, Habib claimed that he murdered Swati on October 16 and buried her body in Hangu, reported Pakistani news outlets citing sources.

The report further stated that Justice Raja Shahid Mehmood Abbasi of the Lahore High Court Rawalpindi Bench, on December 23, directed the City Police Officer (CPO) to locate Swati as soon as possible, failing which the court would summon the Inspector General of Police. The court had reportedly directed the police to present Swati in court after retrieving her.

Amid the ongoing debate on anti-conversion bills being introduced in states, senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad on Saturday said that religious conversion occurs not by using a sword but through good work and character of individuals that influence others to convert.

“If anyone is converting people, he is not using a sword. It is the good work and character of individuals which influence others to convert. People convert when they see a particular religion serving humanity and not indiscrimination,” Azad said while addressing an event in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.

His statement comes amid allegations from the Opposition in Karnataka that the anti-conversion bill is being proposed in the state to “target a particular religion.” The winter session in the state witnessed strong opposition to the bill.

The proposed legislation prohibits religious conversion attempts either directly or otherwise by use of misrepresentation, force, undue influence, coercion, allurement or by any fraudulent means or by marriage, nor shall any person abet or conspire for conversions.

Home Minister Amit Shah held a meeting to discuss the present scenario in Nagaland on Dec 23. The meeting was attended by Nagaland CM, Assam CM & others. In the meeting, it was decided that a committee will be instituted to look into the withdrawal of AFSPA in Nagaland: Nagaland Govt

"The Committee will submit its report in 45 days & withdrawal of Disturbed Area and AFSPA from Nagaland will be based on its recommendations."

"It was discussed in the meeting that a Court of Enquiry will initiate disciplinary proceedings against the army unit & army personnel, who are directly involved in the Oting incident and action will be taken immediately"

The government will seek the blessings of the people of the state and make the best use of the time left to work for the people, said Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Saturday. CM Bommai who is leading the BJP government in Karnataka said that he will work hard to win the trust of the people for coming back to power in 2023. 

Handing over the cheques of Rs 1 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives due to COVID-19, the Chief Minister said, "Making best use of the time left to work for the people and winning their trust, we will seek their blessings on the basis of our work to come back to power in the Karnataka elections 2023." Apart from that, he also announced bringing a major program for providing employment opportunities to the youth in January. 

" He was a guiding light for countless people globally. His emphasis on human dignity and equality will be forever remembered," PM says.

In his final 'Mann Ki Baat' program for the year 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised the efforts of every Indian, including common citizens who helped the country achieve its COVID-19 vaccination milestone and set an example for the world in the fight against the pandemic. 

"It is everyone's effort that India could fight the biggest epidemic in 100 years. We stood by each other like a family in every difficult time. If we compare the vaccination figures of India with the world, it shows that we have done a remarkable job and how big a goal has been achieved," said PM Modi. 

"Crossing the milestone of 140 crore doses of vaccine is an achievement of every Indian. This shows the trust of every Indian in the health system, our faith in science, our trust in the scientists, and is also proof of our will in fulfilling our responsibilities towards society," he added.

"The new Omicron variant that has entered the country, our scientists are constantly studying it. They are getting new data every day, their suggestions are being worked on. In such a situation, self-awareness, self-discipline, is the country's greatest power against this variant of coronavirus," said PM Modi. He called on the nation to enter the year with this collective power to defeat COVID-19.

Hailing Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said 'Chief Minister does not give any concession to the mafia'. Speaking from Lucknow at the foundation stone laying ceremony of Defense Technology and Testing Center and BrahMos Manufacturing Center, Rajnath Singh also said 'CM Yogi has shown courage in every work'.

 The 403-seat UP assembly, which Yogi Adityanath-led BJP administers with a thumping majority of 314 seats, is up for grabs as the state nears elections in February 2022.

Union Defence Minister talks about boosting India's power worldwide:

"We want to make BrahMos missile on Indian soil. Not to attack any country, but India should have such power that no country in the world can target India. The stand of the country is clear that it will not like to play with security. This is a new India that does not tease first and if someone teases it then does not leave it," added Defence Minister Singh.

Madhya Pradesh has reported eight Omicron cases in Indore. Out of them, six patients have been discharged: MP Medical Education Minister Vishvas Sarang

Escalating the fight between Opposition and Centre over the suspension of 12 MPs, Union Parliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi on Sunday, released the Rajya Sabha TV footage of the ruckus which led to it. Naming Congress MP Jairam Ramesh, Joshi rued over the Opposition's refusal to apologise for its unruly behaviour. He added, "To err is human but to repeatedly justify it is foolish".

The Ministry of Higher Education of the Taliban government has formed a new 170-member police unit for the protection of educational institutes.

According to a Khaama Press report, the newly formed security personnel are a part of the ministry's Special Forces that were trained in 313 central corps for 30 days, according to an official statement issued by the Taliban. The creation of a special security force to protect educational institutions was a much-needed step, said Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Lutfullah Khairkhaw.

While addressing the new graduates, the defense ministry said that the protection of educational institutions is as important as their stronghold. This decision was taken by the Taliban in view of numerous complaints filed by people who reported the behavior of Taliban affiliates now protecting these institutes.

The Taliban takeover has greatly affected the education of girls in Afghanistan. Since August, there has been a noticeable drop in the attendance of girls in primary schools, although they've been allowed to return to schools. However, due to extreme poverty and security concerns, parents are reluctant to send younger girls to school. 

Earlier, the acting Deputy Education Minister, Abdul Hakim Hemat, confirmed that the government is looking forward to creating a new education policy, which is likely to come in the new year. Until then, girls would not be allowed to attend secondary school.

As per various media reports, groups of armed Taliban terrorists across various places have reportedly approached school girls on the street, asking them to cover their hands and mouths, due to which a majority of girls have stopped going to school. Since the Taliban gained control of Afghanistan, the country has been in chaos. With a lack of good governance and massive financial crisis, the country is on the brink of being pushed into a famine.

For the past 20 days, India has been reporting cases of Omicron variant and 17 states have been infected so far. As yet, UP has reported two cases in Ghaziabad and both have been discharged from the hospital after recovery, Uttar Pradesh Health Minister Jai Pratap Singh told Republic.

"On the other hand, the Delta variant is on a slow rise and we are keeping a check on that in all districts. For this, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had recently held a high priority meeting, during which certain restrictions like night curfews, entry into malls, number of guests in marriages were discussed," he added. 

n a bizarre comment, ex-Madhya Pradesh CM Digvijaya Singh on Satuday, claimed that middle-aged women were inclined towards PM Modi, but not the 'jeans-clad' young women. Addressing a Congress Jan Jagram Abhiyan in Bhopal, Singh said that the Congress' 'Ladki hoon Lad Sakti hoon' song was resonating with young women who were active on social media. Congress is focusing on young women with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra the face of its UP campaign.

"Ladki hoon lad Sakti hoon is resonating with the crowds. Some have set it as their ringtone. This is a great campaign by Priyanka Gandhi ji. Some people have noted that women aged 40-50 favour PM Modi. But those women who wear jeans and are active on social media are less inclined to PM Modi. Hence, we must spread our campaign widely to them," said Singh.

Anti-apartheid icon Archbishop Desmond Tutu has passed away, stated South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

In a sobering development, Uttarakhand ex-CM Harish Rawat on Sunday, clarified that Congress will not fight Uttarakhand polls under his leadership (Netritv), rather his guidance (Aguvai). Claiming that his words reflected arrogance, he sought forgiveness for his choice of words. Rawat met with Congress's top brass including Rahul Gandhi after he 'expressed his pain' in Uttarakhand Congress.

"Varun Singh himself bravely battled with death for so many days but then he also left us. While Varun was in the hospital, I saw something on social media that touched my heart. This year in August he was awarded with Shaurya Chakra. After this honour, he had written a letter to his school principal, after reading the letter the first thing that came to mind was that he did not forget his roots despite touching the rights of success," said PM Modi. 

PM Modi described the letter written by the Group Captain as a Mantra of turning ordinary to extraordinary. 

"In this letter, Varun Singh has also written never lose hope, never think that you cannot be good at what you want. It will not come easy, it will take the sacrifice of time and comfort. I was mediocre but today I have reached a difficult milestone in my career. Don't think that the 12th board mark sheet can decide what you are capable of achieving in life, believe in yourself and work towards life," said PM Modi quoting Varun Singh's letter.

"Four new Omicron cases have been reported in the state, 4 foreign returnees (2 from Nigeria, 1 from UAE & 1 from Saudi Arabia) have tested positive for the Omicron variant of COVID19. The total number of Omicron cases stand at eight," Director Public Health Niranjan Mishra told ANI

Lauding the Air Gun surrender campaign and its impact in Arunachal Pradesh, PM Modi during his address to the nation in the 84th edition of Mann Ki Baat radio show, stated that over 1600 residents of the state have 'voluntarily' given up their guns from possession. Notably, Air Gun Abhiyan had been initiated on September 21, 2021, wherein the objective is to upgrade from air guns to licensed guns in a bid to preserve nature and uplift conservation.

Speaking of Arunachal Pradesh's 'unique' campaign, PM Modi said, "The bird population across forests have started to diminish. To keep this in check, the Air Gun Abhiyan is going on."

"Friends, Arunachal Pradesh is home to more than 500 different kinds of bird species. There are few desi species that cannot be found elsewhere in the world. Therefore, it is imperative we preserve what we have been gifted with."

"People of Arunachal Pradesh voluntarily surrendered over 1600 Air Guns and I commend them for the endeavour," PM Modi noted. 

Listen to Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's address from Lucknow live here:

In an exclusive conversation to Republic, AIIMS Hyderabad Director Dr Vikas Bhatia hailed Centre's COVID-19 booster dose announcement by PM Modi.

In a fresh imposition of misogynistic rules, the Taliban regime on Saturday forbade cab drivers from accepting Afghan women passengers unless they have donned a hijab. In addition, the Taliban Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, in a written recommendation, also announced that car drivers will not be allowed to play loud music in their vehicles, effective immediately. This comes after the Islamist rulers in October banned live music at weddings and ordered men and women to engage in celebratory parties in separate halls, a hotelier based in Afghanistan had told Sputnik.

Instances of repression and oppression of women and girls, which was common during the erstwhile Taliban regime (between 1996 to 2001) have re-emerged that depicts an orthodox Taliban mindset. This comes even after Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid in August had promised: "to recognise and honour women rights as per Islamic Law."

The Taliban have further banned the participation of women and girls in sports. Additionally, they have also abolished the Women Affairs Ministry to re-introduce the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice. In a major violation of human rights, the Islamist group also shut down shelters and prosecution units for women offenders, which was introduced under the 2009 Law on the Elimination of Violence Against Women in Afghanistan.

"It is the power of people and with everyone's efforts that India could fight the worst pandemic of the century. In hard times, we stood together as a family".

"Today, when we compare the global vaccination statistics with India, we realize what an unprecedented feat our country has achieved. Crossing the milestone of 140 crore doses, it is an achievement for every Indian"

PM Modi quoted Late Group Captain Varun Singh's letter to the school principal that read, 'it's okay to be mediocre'. 

"The new Omicron variant is being constantly reviewed by our scientists. Every day, they are getting new data and steps are being taken based on their suggestions": PM Modi

"Today when the country is celebrating Amrit Mahotsav, the people's power of India, their efforts, hard work in a way guarantees the glorious future of India and the entire humankind"

"PM Modi will visit Mandi, Himachal Pradesh on 27 December 2021. He will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of hydropower projects worth over Rs 11,000 crore at around 12 noon. Prior to the event, he will preside over the second groundbreaking ceremony of the Himachal Pradesh Global Investors’ Meet at around 11:30 AM.

Prime Minister has constantly focussed on fully utilizing the untapped potential of the resources available in the country. One of the steps in this regard has been to utilise optimally the hydropower potential in the Himalayan region. The projects which will be inaugurated and whose foundation stone will be laid by the Prime Minister during the visit reflect a key step in this direction.

Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of the Renukaji Dam project. Lying pending for around three decades, the project was made possible through the vision of cooperative federalism of the Prime Minister, when six states viz Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Delhi were brought together by the Centre for making the project possible. The 40 MW project will be built at a cost of around Rs 7000 crore. It will prove to be immensely beneficial for Delhi, which will be able to receive around 500 million cubic metre water supply per year," the press release of the Prime Minister's Office read. 

In a significant boost to the anti-terror operations, the Jammu and Kashmir security forces have now eliminated a total of six terrorists in two separate encounters. The back-to-back anti-terror operations happened in J&K on Saturday. While one encounter took place in Shopian, the other one happened in the Pulwama district in a span of just two hours.

According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, the two terrorists gunned down in Shopian belonged to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The two terrorists were eliminated based on the inputs regarding the presence of terror activities in the area received by the forces. Meanwhile, the second gun battle broke out between the forces and the terrorists in Pulwama. This came only a day after the Anantnag encounter where a Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist was gunned down.

The encounters carried on to Saturday evening and the terrorists were brought down within 24 hours of the first firing. Four more terrorists were neutralised in the anti-terror operation at the Tral area in south Kashmir's Pulwama. The terrorists killed were identified as part of the terror outfit AGH (Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind). The killing comes as a follow-up to 2019 when the security forces damaged the outfit and killed several terrorists in encounters in the region.

In an official press release, the J&K police shared some of the details of the encounter and stated that during the search operation, as the presence of terrorists got ascertained, they were given ample opportunities to surrender

All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday attacked Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over his decision to rename places. Addressing a rally in Firozabad, Owaisi took a dig at Adityanath and claimed that he is suffering from "fever of renaming places". During his speech, the AIMIM chief referred to media reports that claimed that 45-200 children died of viral fever in Firozabad in August-September. 

Owaisi has held the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh responsible for the same. Moreover, he claimed that if one questions Yogi Adityanath about the same, then he would say that fever hit the district because of its name - Firozabad. He added that Adityanath suffers from a fever of renaming places.

"Media reports say 45-200 children died of viral fever in Firozabad in August-September. If you would question Baba (CM), he would say fever hit the district because of its name. He is suffering from the fever of renaming places," said Owaisi 

"The Chief Minister won't realise why the children are dying. They are dying because the BJP government in UP just made 17 public health centres in Firozabad. There are no doctors or medicines. But Baba (CM) will say that change Firozabad's name then children will not get fever and die. Changing names does not help but working will. He (Yogi Adityanath) will say that change name and if they don't listen put them in jails," added Owaisi

Taking strong objection to Punjab Congress President Navjot Sidhu's latest controversial alleged remarks on the police force, Deputy Superintendent of Police of Chandigarh, Dilsher Singh Chandel, denounced the former's callousness and cruel disregard for cops.

Recently, Sidhu has drawn intense criticism for mocking the police force while commenting before his party workers to make 'cops wet their pants'. Subsequently, DSP Chandel asked Sidhu to 'mind his language'. 

Condemning Sidhu's insensitivity, DSP Chandel asserted that 'without the police, even a rickshaw puller will not follow the politicians' instructions'. In a video that went viral on social media, DSP Chandel strongly criticised Sidhu for his alleged comments on Punjab police.

He said that Sidhu was insulting those who provide him security, and that politicians should refrain from making such statements against the policemen on duty. Underlining that the policemen are only doing their duty, he added, "By making such statements, their morale should not be affected." 

Sidhu was addressing a political rally in Sultanpur Lodhi in Kapurthala district on December 19, wherein he allegedly bragged about Congress MLA Navtej Cheema. He implied that Navtej was so strong that 'he could make a police officer wet his pants'. He went on to say that fellow Congres party workers should be like him.

With fresh 6,987 cases in the last 24 hours, India COVID-19 tally on Sunday jumped to 3,47,86,802. Apart from that with 7,091 recoveries and 162 fatalities in the last 24 hours, the total recovery and death recovery toll stands at 3,42,30,354 and 4,79,682 respectively. Along with that, a total of 422 cases of Omicron variant has also been reported from across the country with Maharashtra leading the tally.

Meanwhile, with a total of 76,766 active COVID-19 cases across the country, India's total vaccination coverage stands at 141.37 crores with 32,90,766 administered in the last 24 hours. Speaking about the vaccine availability in states and union territories, a total of 148.37 crores (1,48,37,98,635) vaccine doses have been provided to states and union territories as of December 26, 2021, through the Centre's free of cost channel and direct state procurement category. Apart from that, more than 17.90 crores (17,90,54,941) balanced and unutilized COVID vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs and are yet to be administered. 

While India's recovery rate stands at 98.40%, which is the highest since March 2020. the weekly positivity rate is at 0.62%, remaining less than 1% from the last 42 days. 

The central government's nationwide vaccination drive has been intensified amid the growing cases of Omicron variant in the country. Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his sudden address to the nation announced about vaccinating children between the ages of 15 and 18 followed by booster shots for frontline, health care workers and senior citizens. 

"In the ongoing encounter at Srigufwara Bijbihara local terrorist Faheem affiliated with AGH neutralised. His activities came to adverse notice in2018/19 but became active as a terrorist recently. He was involved in the killing of a police ASI on 22/12/2022 in the Bijbihara market. A pistol used in the killing and ammunition recovered."

A total of 422 Omicron cases were reported in 17 States/UTs of India so far. The number of persons recovered is 130: Union Health Ministry. 

"Every month we do a mock drill to ensure that all equipment is ready and working properly and all our staff is fully activated"

"We are prepared to tackle any situation. Since April 2021, we have strengthened all our medical facilities with oxygen generating plants, ventilators, oxygen concentrators and training of doctors"

In a significant boost to the anti-terror operations, the Jammu and Kashmir security forces have now eliminated a total of six terrorists in two separate encounters. The back-to-back anti-terror operations happened in J&K on Saturday. While one encounter took place in Shopian, the other one happened in Pulwama district in a span of just two hours.

According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, the two terrorists gunned down in Shopian belonged to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The two terrorists were eliminated based on the inputs regarding the presence of terror activities in the area received by the forces. Meanwhile, the second gun battle broke out between the forces and the terrorists in Pulwama. This came only a day after the Anantnag encounter where a Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist was gunned down.

The encounters carried on to Saturday evening and the terrorists were brought down within 24 hours of the first firing. Four more terrorists were neutralised in the anti-terror operation at the Tral area in south Kashmir's Pulwama. The terrorists killed were identified as part of the terror outfit AGH (Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind). The killing comes as a follow-up to 2019 when the security forces damaged the outfit and killed several terrorists in encounters in the region.

In yet another instance of religious intolerance, a Christmas meet was disrupted by a right-wing Hindu group on Saturday in Pataudi, Gurugram, alleging forced conversion. The video, which is now viral on social media, shows a group of men barging into the primary school where people were singing Christmas carols. Snatching the microphone from the carollers, a man is seen warning children of 'forced conversions' to loud chants of Jai Shri Ram.

The man is heard telling children," We are not disrespecting Christianity. I want to tell these children to read Gita and follow the rules which were set by Lord Krishna. Do not come under influence of any other religions, else the destruction of Indian culture is imminent". Urging children to take a vow against forced conversions, the man shouts, "Jai Shri Ram". Police have made no arrests as no complaint was filed. The Christmas event was organised by House of Hope, a social organisation at private school in Pataudi to celebrate the festival via songs, dance and Bible teachings.

Following PM Narendra Modi's announcement to roll out precautionary COVID-19 booster dose of vaccination for healthcare and frontline workers, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) 'joined hands' with the decision. While stating that the new variant of concern is at 'our doorstep', the IMA conformed to the need to protect the vulnerable.

In addition, the IMA welcomed the step to administer safety doses to children over 15 years. The vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 to children, in the age of 15-18 years, will begin from January 3, 2022, PM Modi had announced on Saturday. 

"On behalf of the front-line health care workers, we hail the announcement of the Hon. Prime minister for the precautionary booster dose of vaccination for health care front line workers. It is the right step as the imminent third wave by the new variant of concern omicron is at our doorsteps and we need to protect our health care front line workers in all possible ways," the IMA's press release stated. 

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday, December 25, attacked Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for spending heavily on advertisements instead of clearing the dues of municipal corporations in Delhi. 

Addressing an inaugural ceremony of Bharat Darshan Park in Delhi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "I want to say to Delhi CM to spend less money on advertisements and give dues of Rs 13,000 crore to the municipal corporations... In our government's work culture, we do what we say."

The Union Minister further slammed the CM Kejriwal-led government for only focussing on advertisements, photoshoots, and TV interviews. "The time has come for the people of Delhi to decide as to support which work culture," he said.

Kejriwal spent around Rs 804.93 cr on advertisement since 2015

Earlier in May, while addressing a virtual press conference, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra cited an RTI reply concerning CM Arvind Kejriwal's expenditure towards advertisements and mentioned that about Rs 805 crore were spent on advertisements since 2015. He accused Kejriwal of not utilising the same money for opening new hospitals in the city amid the COIVD pandemic. Patra said, "You keep advertising, claiming there will not be any lockdown, no shortage of oxygen and that people will be delivered oxygen at home. When you saw that you cannot control the situation, then you pointed fingers at the Centre and washed your hands of your responsibility."

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorm accompanied by lightning at isolated places is very likely over the Jammu division and Himachal Pradesh on December 26. 

According to the IMD report, a fresh Western Disturbance and its induced cyclonic circulation are very likely to affect northwest India from Dec 26, central India from Dec 27, and East India from December 28. Under its influence, a light/moderate scattered to fairly widespread rainfall/snowfall is very likely to occur over Western Himalayan Region during December 26-29 with isolated thunderstorms & lightning on December 26. While a light/moderate isolated to scattered rainfall is very likely over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh & Delhi during December 26-29; over Rajasthan during December 27-28 and scattered to fairly over Uttar Pradesh during December 27-29 with an isolated thunderstorm, lightning & hailstorm also likely over Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh on December 28.

Light/moderate isolated to scattered rainfall will be experienced over Madhya Pradesh and north Odisha during December 27-29 and over Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Gangetic West Bengal during December 28-29 with isolated thunderstorm, lightning & hailstorm also likely over West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Marathwada on December 28.

As Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Tomar stirs controversy on Farm laws again, ex-Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Saturday, vowed to restart the farmers' stir again. Calling Tomar's statement as an insult to PM Modi's apology, he said that the Centre's ego which was destroyed would be done again if needed. The Centre has officially rolled back the three farm laws and farmers have returned home, wrapping up the year-long stir.

Earlier on Saturday, Tomar said that the three farm laws, which are now repealed, were a big reform after 70 years of independence, but the Central government had to move "a step back" as it was not liked by some. Addressing a govt event, Tomar vowed that the Centre will "move forward again" as farmers are the backbone of the country. However, he later clarified that he did not mean that the three laws would be brought back. 

"We brought the farm laws. Some people did not like them but it was a big reform after 70 years after Independence which was moving ahead under the leadership of Narendra Modiji. We moved a step back and we will move forward again because farmers are India's backbone and if the backbone is strengthened, the country will become stronger," he said.

"We will register a case against the organizers for violation of COVID rules at the programme," a police official confirmed.

Saudi Arabian authorities on Saturday arrested five Pakistani nationals for alleged involvement in transferring illicit money out of the kingdom. The police nabbed the expatriates in Medina for collecting and smuggling unspecified amounts of notes over a considerable period of time. Additionally, the authorities also seized a hefty amount of cash from the suspects, which as per Saudi police were being arranged to be bootlegged out of the country, The Express Tribune reported.

"Police found cash amounts in their possession from unknown origin," a Saudi official told the publication. The suspects have now been referred to public prosecution for further investigation. As per the Express Tribune report, Saudi authorities also informed that all 5 accused Pakistani men had blurted contradictory statements, making a detailed probe into the matter mandatory. However, the identities of the five men have not been revealed yet.

Iran on Saturday announced that it was sealing off its borders with the neighbouring countries for at least 15 days after cases of Omicron B.1.1.529 case were detected in the country. In an attempt to curb the spread of the COVID-19 variant of Omicron Ruhollah Latifi, spokesman for Iran's Customs said that Tehran has promptly shut the land borders with countries where the Omicron cases have drastically risen—including Turkey, Iraq, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and Armenia. Effective December 25, Iran will remain shut to the foreign travellers for over half a month, until further notice, Xinhua reported, citing the local news outlets. 

As of December 26, the Islamic Republic has registered 1,121 new COVID-19 cases, Iran’s Health Ministry on Saturday reported citing the data. This has pushed the country’s total infections to 6,182,905. In the last 24 hours, the country recorded over 42 fatalities, pushing the death toll to 131,348, the health ministry said, adding that 2,781 COVID-19 cases are now being treated at the intensive care units and have needed hospital intervention. 

Iran detected its first Omicron case on December 19 in a traveller who returned from the United Arab Emirates [UAE]. Health officials immediately instated the health safety protocols countrywide. A ministry official told state television that the highly contagious and mutated variant of the novel COVID-19 was detected in a middle-aged Iranian man, and that the officials were now monitoring two more suspected cases of Omicron. 

In a massive decision amid rising concerns over the Omicron COVID-19 variant, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced that children aged 15-18 will be given vaccines while frontline workers and people aged 60+ with co-morbidities will be eligible for a booster dose.

Following his announcement, National Conference vice-chairman Omar Abdullah stated that though the Prime Minister's announcement was made, it came "not a moment too soon".

Abdullah has further suggested that the Centre should now announce adequate supply for COVID-19 vaccines across the country. In addition, he also opined that more choice of vaccines, apart from the two that are already being administered in India - Covishield and Covaxin will aid the booster jab rollout.

"All arrangements are in place to tackle any possible surge of COVID-19. Lockdown will not be imposed in Assam," State Health Minister Keshab Mahanta told ANI.

Shortly after the Drug Controller General of India (DGCI) gave approval for Emergency Use Authorisation (EUA) of Covaxin for children aged between 12 and 18, Prime Minister Modi announced the process of vaccinating children between the age of 15 to 18 followed by booster shots for frontline workers, healthcare workers, and senior citizens. 

Notably, the approval by DGCI was made on the recommendations made by the Subject Expert Committee (SEC) based on the trial data results and scientific evidence as related to the vaccination of those in the 12 to 17 age group. With the recent announcement, Covaxin has now become the second approved vaccine for use among children in India. Earlier in August, the three-dose DNA jab by Zydus Cadila was allowed to use for adults as well as children above the age of 12.

As stated by the Drug Controller General of India in an official order, Covaxin will be administered to the children in two doses with a gap of 28 days between the first and second jabs respectively. Also, as per the trial data submitted to the government, the gap and dosage for the address as well as children will remain the same. 

"Based on the recommendations of SEC experts and submission of additional safety data, this directorate has no objection at this stage for the additional indication of Whole Virion inactivated coronavirus vaccine for use in the age group of more than 12 years to 18 years with the doses schedule of 0 and 28 days for restricted use in an emergency situation with the condition to submit SmPC, PI, Factsheet incorporating clinical information for said age group along with pharmacovigilance & risk management plan", it said. 

Similarly, the vaccine manufacturing company Bharat Biotech in its statement also said that Covaxin has been formulated in a unique manner for safe usage among children and adults.

"Covaxin has established a proven record for safety and efficacy in adults for the original variant and subsequent variants. We have documented excellent safety and immunogenicity data readouts in children. We look forward for Covaxin to provide similar levels of protection for adults and children alike", it said. 

A third booster shot of China’s widely used Sinovac’s CoronaVac vaccine has been found ineffective against the highly complex and mutated B.1.1.529 Omicron variant of concern, researchers said in a new study published on December 25. The China-made jab does not provide sufficient protection against Omicron, scientists at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Chinese University of Hong Kong revealed, adding that the third shot of one of the world's most widely used COVID-19 vaccines mostly also donated by China to other countries does not produce enough levels of virus-neutralising antibodies to fight against Omicron.

Sinovac’s CoronaVac and state-owned Sinopharm’s BBIBP-CorV vaccine are the two most-used vaccines in China as well as widely exported to other nations by Beijing.    

Saudi Arabian authorities on Saturday arrested five Pakistani nationals for alleged involvement in transferring illicit money out of the kingdom. The police nabbed the expatriates in Medina for collecting and smuggling unspecified amounts of notes over a considerable period of time. Additionally, the authorities also seized a hefty amount of cash from the suspects, which as per Saudi police were being arranged to be bootlegged out of the country, The Express Tribune reported.

"Police found cash amounts in their possession from unknown origin," a Saudi official told the publication. The suspects have now been referred to public prosecution for further investigation. As per the Express Tribune report, Saudi authorities also informed that all 5 accused Pakistani men had blurted contradictory statements, making a detailed probe into the matter mandatory. However, the identities of the five men have not been revealed yet.

The arrests come as Saudi Arabia has intensified its crackdown on financial frauds. Several suspects have been arrested in the kingdom since over alleged malpractices and proven monetary fraud. In April this year, at least 24 men were arrested for suspected defrauding innocent people of Saudi Riyal 35 million in several scams, the publication noted.

On Saturday, PM Modi addressed the nation and made several key announcements to secure India's most vulnerable. The PM announced vaccination for children between 15-18 years of age from 3 January 2022, while the "precaution dose" or booster dose for healthcare and frontline workers begins on 10 January 2022.

The precaution jab will also be available for citizens above 60 years of age with comorbidities on the recommendation of a doctor from 10 January 2022. "In many countries of the world number of infected are increasing due to the new Omicron variant of COVID. I appeal to all, not to panic but remain vigilant, and use masks and sanitize hands regularly," PM Modi said.

A precaution dose is intended to boost immunity after the original vaccination. Amid the Omicron scare, the precaution dose is recommended as the immunity level decreases after a few months of taking the vaccination. Notably, the vaccination for healthcare workers started 11 months back and that for high-risk groups nine months back.

The rollout of vaccination for children between 15-18 years is also a key development as the vaccine will protect them from COVID-19 with schools, colleges and educational institutions opening. 

So far, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has given clearance to two vaccines for the inoculation of kids. Covaxin received DCGI's nod on Saturday while Zydus Cadila's three-dose jab received clearance in August.

In a dire warning to the Imran Khan government, a top military commander of the Taliban earlier yesterday stressed that the Afghan side was ready to give the same response if attacks by the Pakistani military did not cease. He then warned Islamabad to refrain from firing artillery on Kabul citing the consequences. 

“The Taliban seeks good ties with its neighbours and its forces have the military equipment to defend the country”, said Abu Dojana, Commander of 201 Khalid Bin Walid Corps warned on Saturday. "This is precious soil. We have paid a large sacrifice for it. We want to be good neighbours but if they keep attacking our soil, we will certainly give them a response," TOLOnews quoted Dojana as saying. Dojana said that mortar shelling by the Pakistani side has injured civilians in Afghanistan's Chogam area of Shiltan district in Kunar.

PM Modi announced before the nation that the inoculation against COVID-19 for children will start from January 3, 2022, and precaution dose from January 10, here is the criteria to keep note of for both, the vaccine booster dose and the doses for children. 

Here's the eligibility criteria:

• 15-18 years: Paediatric vaccines 
• Healthcare workers: Precautionary dose
• Frontline workers: Precautionary dose
• Over 60 years: Precautionary dose

'Vaccination For Children Aged 15-18 From Jan 3': PM Modi 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Saturday that COVID-19 vaccination for children in the age of 15-18 years will begin from January 3, 2022. In his address to the nation, PM Modi said, "Vaccination will start for children between 15 and 18 years of age. It will begin from Monday, January 3, 2022. This decision will strengthen the country's fight against Coronavirus."

'Precaution Dose from January 10': PM Modi

Making another big announcement on the precaution dose against COVID-19, the Prime Minister said that the dose will be administered to healthcare and frontline workers from January 10 along with those above 60 years of age on the advice of their doctor.

While a majority of the population still remains to be fully vaccinated with two mandatory doses, PM Modi said that the additional doses will help the nation better prepare against the Omicron variant. 

While Union Minister Piyush Goyal stated that with the decisions announced by PM Modi, children, the elderly, and corona warriors will get more protection from COVID infection. 

Further Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya took to Twitter to thank Modi for the decisions and wrote, "In order to make the country stronger in the fight against Corona, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken very important decisions regarding vaccination. I sincerely thank them for these decisions".

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has given nod to Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin (BBV152) for kids between 12 to 18 years of age for emergency use. With this, Covaxin has become the second vaccine in India to receive approval for use on children. The first one is Zydus Cadila's three-dose jab which was allowed to be administered on all above 12 years of age.

With these two vaccines in its arsenal, India is on the list of the countries that have approved or are in the process of approving vaccines for children. Here's the list:- 

At least 35 people, including senior citizens, women, and children, were allegedly killed and their bodies burned in Myanmar’s Kayah state, a local rights body said on Friday. In its report, the Karenni Human Rights Group said that all the charred bodies were discovered in the wee hours of December 25. “We strongly denounce the inhumane and brutal killing which violates human rights,” the group said in a Facebook post adding that the gruesome discovery was made near Mo So village of Hpruso town.

“The bodies were tied with ropes before being set on fire,” a witness told AP on condition of anonymity because he feared for his safety.

Laying bare further details, the rights group stressed that the burnt bodies were discovered inside seven vehicles which did not stop at the military’s command. An investigation to determine the identities of the bodies has been launched but local groups have said that they were internally displaced Myanmarese seeking refuge. Meanwhile, a report by Al Jazeera cited the military as saying that they had killed an unspecified number of  “terrorists with weapons” from opposition armed forces. 

The victims included members who were going to attend training to fight the country's army- the Tatmadaw.

PM Modi also announced that healthcare and frontline workers will be provided with "precautionary doses (COVID booster doses)" from January 10, 2022. He also stated that citizens above 60 years of age who have co-morbidities can avail of a 'precaution dose' of COVID vaccine on the doctor's advice from January 10, 2022. Maharashtra task force member Shashank Joshi called it a 'very welcoming step.'

Dr Shashank Joshi said, "This is a very welcoming step. I would also congratulate Republic TV in leading the moment for the booster dose, it is a welcome sign. It is a very well-thought-out strategy of protecting healthcare and frontline workers. The children between 15-18 are considered to be between 10th and 12th grade, and at a certain level, a larger coverage will come, people with co-morbidities senior citizens are also covered. So it has been a calibrated approach."

"But the most important message the Prime Minister gave is the need for double masking, need not spread rumours as well as panic regarding the new variant, and behaving sensibly, appropriately and responsibly, I think those were the key takeaways. Showing the path that India can lead evolved, in terms of not only vaccine equity but also in additional doses to protect the most vulnerable group. He has struck a perfect balance which is not easy," he added.